Have questions? We're here.
Hiking along the stream

Strútur Trek

Example 5 Day Tour
Talk with an expert
Build your ideal Iceland trip. Call 1.406.541.2677
Start Planning My Trip
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!
Stream crossingLandscape along the Strútur regionComfortable mountain hutNatural bath relaxation breakWaterfall passing through the landscapeHiking the Volcanic Trails near StrúturHiking along the stream
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
Places Visited
Activity Level: Moderate
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.
0

Full Itinerary

Expand All

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

My Preferred Start Date

Per person starting at
$2,402 2-3 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.

Rates may vary based on current exchange rate.

Included
  • 4 Breakfasts, 5 Lunches, 4 Dinners
  • 4 Nights Accommodations
  • 5 Days Locally Hosted Guide Service
  • Accommodations as listed
  • Ground transportation as listed
  • Activities as listed
  • Meals as listed
  • Access to a 24-7 Emergency line while traveling
  • Professional and qualified English-speaking guide
  • Luggage transport throughout the trek
  • Transport from Reykjavík to Sveinstindur and from Strútur to Reykjavík
Excluded
  • Gratuities
  • Travel Insurance
  • Personal Expenses
  • Flight costs (please request a quote)
  • Additional excursions during free time
  • Fuel and transportation surcharges (when applicable)
  • Sleeping Bag: ISK 8000 per person
  • Hiking Pole: ISK 3500 per person
  • Accommodation in Reykjavík on request
  • Dietary Supplement (Vegan/vegetarian meal plan): ISK 9000 per person

Map

When to Go

Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Good to ideal period to travel, and many people choose to visit at this time.
Chance for unpredictable weather but with fewer visitors.
Typically not offered during this period because of weather conditions.

Inquire

* By providing your phone number, you consent to receive direct phone calls or SMS messages from our Trip Planners to get the process started. We do not share your information with third-parties.
Change & customize to make it yours.
Travel Agents

We Love to Talk Travel

Call 1.800.344.6118
or
Chat Now
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!
Meyer Smolen

Iceland Travel Guide

Top Iceland Travel Destinations

Iceland Trips by Departure Date

Top Experiences in Iceland

Iceland Trips by Duration

Iceland Trips by Activity

More Reasons

Why Travel With Adventure Life

All News

Recognized By