About this experience
Escape the crowds and discover one of Iceland’s best-kept secrets on this full-day adventure into the remote Highlands.
Travel deep into the rugged interior to Kerlingarfjöll, a spectacular mountain range known for its steaming geothermal valleys, colorful rhyolite peaks, and otherworldly landscapes. Often compared to Mars, this hidden region offers a side of Iceland that few visitors ever experience.
With your expert guide, enjoy a scenic small-group hike through the Hveradalir geothermal valley, where bubbling hot springs, steaming vents, and vivid mineral-stained hills create an unforgettable setting. Along the way, take in sweeping views of glaciers, highland rivers, and untouched wilderness far from the typical tourist routes.
This tour is perfect for travellers looking to go beyond the Golden Circle and experience a more authentic, adventurous side of Iceland—without needing to self-drive into the Highlands.
At a glance
- Duration: 11 hr 30 min
Plan your experience
Set aside 11 hr 30 min for the experience itself, with additional time to reach your meeting or pickup point.
Before you go
- Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
- Kerlingarfjöll is in the remote highlands where weather can be unpredictable. Please note that the trail may be muddy, and it's not unusual to encounter snow - even in the summer. Please dress in layers and wear sturdy boots with good tread that you do not mind getting dirty.
What is included
- Professional English-speaking guide
- Small-group experience (max 19 travellers)
- Transport in a specially equipped vehicle (Highlands access)
- Reykjavík pickup and drop-off
- Guided hike in Kerlingarfjöll Highlands
Not included
- Lunch
- Snacks
- Waffles & coffee available for purchase after the hike
- Hiking gear not included (boots, waterproofs, hiking poles)
Itinerary and highlights
Our adventure begins with an 8 a.m. pick-up from Reykjavik at your chosen location from our pick-up list. Once everyone is on board, we'll depart the city and head towards the remote Icelandic highlands.
After we've spent some time exploring the area and enjoying the geothermal wonders of Kerlingarfjöll, we'll head back to Reykjavík for an evening arrival.
We make a brief stop at Gullfoss where you can use the restroom and purchase snacks or lunch to go.
The highlight of Kerlingarfjöll is the Hveradalir valley, a stunning and iconic landscape. Hveradalir, meaning ‘the Valley of the Hot Springs,’ is one of the largest geothermal valleys in Iceland. The site is surrounded by the colorful rhyolite mountains of the Kerlingarfjöll range, offering spectacular surroundings and excellent hiking opportunities. Some hot springs here are so powerful that they should only be admired from a safe distance.
Please note that the duration of the hike depends on the trail and weather conditions but we aim to hike for around 2 hours.
Our destination is Kerlingarfjöll, a volcanic mountain range in central Iceland, known for its steaming geothermal valleys, rushing glacial rivers, and breathtaking panoramic views.
We’ll make a quick rest stop at Gullfoss before transitioning from paved roads to highland mountain roads. Along the way, you'll be treated to views of the vast black highland desert and glacial lagoons, eventually arriving at the mountainous oasis of Kerlingarfjöll.
Our first stop in this region will be The Highland Base, located in the Ásgarður Valley at the edge of Kerlingarfjöll, where we can stretch our legs.
Meeting and pickup information
- Pick-up from your selected location in Reykjavík begins at 8:00 AM. Please be ready at your designated spot by that time. Depending on traffic and your location, it may take up to 30 minutes for your guide to arrive. We appreciate your patience. For customers wishing to be picked up at Gullfoss, please note the later pickup time of 10:15-10:30 AM. Please note that we only serve the pick-up locations specified in our pick-up list.
Languages and tickets
- English — Guide
- Mobile Only
Tour operator
- Arctic Adventures
Meeting points and locations
Accessibility and practical details
- Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
- Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
- Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
- Duration of the tour is 11.5-12 hours including travel time
- Kerlingarfjöll is in the remote highlands where weather can be unpredictable. Please note that the trail may be muddy, and it's not unusual to encounter snow - even in the summer. Please dress in layers and wear sturdy boots with good tread that you do not mind getting dirty.
Cancellation policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Questions about this experience
How long is this experience?
What are the pickup arrangements?
For customers wishing to be picked up at Gullfoss, please note the later pickup time of 10:15-10:30 AM.
Please note that we only serve the pick-up locations specified in our pick-up list.
Which guide languages are listed?
What ticket format is listed?
What ticket age bands are listed?
What is the cancellation policy?
Traveller reviews and photos
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