Experience a 5-day hiking tour through Iceland's stunning volcanic landscapes. Led by expert guides, trek through Vatnajökull National Park, ascending Sveinstindur mountain for breathtaking views. Explore moss-covered lava formations, waterfalls, canyons, and the Eldgjá volcanic fissure before traversing the Mælifellssandur desert. Enjoy cozy mountain hut accommodations. Ideal for adventurers seeking an off-the-beaten-path experience!
Highlights
Explore the captivating Mt Sveinstindur with awe-inspiring views of Vatnajökull glacier
Experience the awe-inspiring Canyon of Fire—Eldgjá, reveling in its mesmerizing beauty
Traverse beside the enchanting Syðri Ófæra river, encountering the alluring Strútslaug natural pool
Trace the course of the Skaftá River, passing exhilarating rapids and picturesque waterfalls
Activities that provide a reasonable level of physical challenge and elevate the heart rate. Focused on more active pursuits including multisport tours. Travelers may be active 5-7 hours total each day. Recommended for travelers with active lifestyles.
Day 1: Reykjavik | Sveinstindur (The Explorer’s Peak)
1 Lunch, 1 Dinner
At 07:30 am, the group gathers at the BSI Central Bus Terminal, where your designated guide welcomes you warmly. Your journey starts with a scenic drive along highland tracks, passing landmarks like the majestic volcano Hekla and Fjallabak Nature Reserve. Proceed through the Landmannalaugar area, known for its vibrant multicolored mountains, towards the captivating Mt Sveinstindur, nestled beside the picturesque lake Langisjór—one of Iceland's most stunning natural wonders.
Upon reaching the peak, discover the breathtaking views extending over the mountainous terrain to the magnificent Vatnajökull glacier. After this exhilarating climb, descend to a traditional hut on the opposite side, providing an authentic back-to-nature experience.
Distance: 6 km (4 mi)
Ascent/Descent: 605 m (1985 ft) /520 m (1706 ft)
Day 2: Sveinstindur | Skaftá | Skælingar
1 Breakfast, 1 Lunch, 1 Dinner
Tracing alongside the Skaftá River, the trail leads past exhilarating rapids and scenic waterfalls, guiding you to the captivating Hvanngil Canyon. The volcanic terrain boasts striking contrasts of obsidian lava, lush green moss, and unique rock formations.
As evening approaches arrive at the enchanting Skælingar area—an ancient lava forest near the Skaftá riverbed. Here, a rustic hut and outhouse facilities offer an opportunity to fully immerse yourself in the raw beauty of nature and embrace an authentic wilderness experience.
Distance: 18 km (10 - 11 mi)
Walking time: 6 - 8 hrs
Accent/Descent: 350 m (1152 ft) / 525 m (1722 ft)
Day 3: Skælingar | Eldgjá | Álftavötn
1 Breakfast, 1 Lunch, 1 Dinner
After your morning preparations, embark on your hiking adventure to explore the awe-inspiring Eldgjá Canyon, the Canyon of Fire. Descend gently into the canyon to immerse yourself in its mesmerizing beauty. Next, trek towards the picturesque Álftavötn lakes, passing through lush green hills alongside the meandering river Syðri Ófæra.
Upon reaching Álftavötn, settle into a quaint traditional hut for the night. The tranquil ambiance of this magical locale provides an ideal sanctuary to rejuvenate your spirits after a day of exploration.
Distance: 21 km (13 mi)
Walking time: 7- 9 hrs
Ascent/Descent: 350 m (1150 ft)
Day 4: Álftavötn | Strútur
1 Breakfast, 1 Lunch, 1 Dinner
Today, your journey follows the picturesque Syðri Ófæra River, revisiting the breathtaking Eldgjá Canyon of Fire. The landscape transitions from lush green meadows to dark sands adorned with vibrant streaks of moss. Along the way, discover the tranquil Strútslaug natural pool after crossing the gentle river at Hólmsá.
After a relaxing soak, conclude today's expedition with a leisurely walk to the welcoming Strútur hut, your accommodation for the night. This cozy retreat offers modern amenities, including comfortable lodging, convenient WC facilities, and refreshing showers for a genuinely comfortable and rejuvenating stay.
Distance: 24 km (15 mi)
Walking time: 8 hrs.
Ascent/Descent: 300 m (984 ft)
Day 5: Strútur | Reykjavik
1 Breakfast, 1 Lunch
In the morning, enjoy the tranquility of the surroundings with a well-deserved rest or an invigorating hike near your hut. After your final lunch, a private 4x4 vehicle will transport you across the striking Mælifellssandur, a vast expanse of black volcanic sand, as you return to Reykjavik. The estimated arrival time in Reykjavík is around 19:00 / 7:00 pm.
Dates & Prices
Per person starting at
Apologies for the inconvenience. Prices for not yet published. Below per person rate based on previous season. Contact us to confirm upcoming season pricing.
Prices for are estimated based on inflation. Contact us to confirm pricing and availability for your desired departure date.
$2,4022-3 travelers
Notes
Select a Date
Rates based on small group departures of 5-14 hikers.
Private Departures are available starting at $4270 for a group of 4.
Rates are based on the current exchange rate with the Iceland Krona and may fluctuate.
Initial deposit is 25%, and most travelers will call our office and pay the deposit with a credit card.
Final payment is due 70 days prior to departure by bank transfer, check, or credit card. Final payments by credit card may be subject to surcharge and maximum $20,000 charge
Our guide and driver were very good with their knowledge and were very helpful with our questions. It was a very pleasant visit that would have been impossible to do on our own. Hotels and restaurants were fantastic. The special places we got to go to, like the kitchens, were great. Enjoyed the entire trip!
Friendly people who ask good questions to make sure your trip is what you want
K.Godinez
5 months ago
Our six-day tour in Iceland went smoothly with one exception. We had asked for two rooms each night. Somehow we were booked with one room with three beds. It could not be fixed at the first hotel in Reykjavik because the hotel was fully booked. Once informed of the problem, however, Adventure Life rebooked for two rooms for the remainder of the trip. As an 85-year-old traveler, I appreciated that one could participate at different physical levels at many of the stops. Iceland is a great place to visit but on the expensive side.