Scenic Trails of Iceland (Deluxe Hiking) - 10 days / 9 nights 2020

Day 1. Arrival

Begin your Icelandic experience with an overnight stay in Reykjavík (airport transfer not included). We recommend the easy and convenient FlyBus Plus transfers, which can be booked through TOURIS up on request. If your flight lands early in the day, a great suggestion is to explore Reykjavik, the largest municipality in Iceland.

If you would enjoy a scenic walk on your arrival day, Reykjavik has many local walking trails that take you by the seaside and through pretty neighborhoods.

A great way to get to know Icelandic culture is a visit to a neighborhood swimming pool. This is not only a refreshing way to shake off jetlag, it’s also the typical way Icelanders meet friends and neighbors and chat about the goings on.

Dinner is on your own. Reykjavik offers a multitude of restaurants and/or coffee-houses, making dinner a great way to get better acquainted with Iceland's capital.

Please note guaranteed early check-in is not included in the price. Most hotels begin check-in around 14:00 (2:00pm).

Overnight: Reykjavík

Highlights: Reykjavik, Parliament House, Perlan, The Sun Voyager, Harpa Concert Hall

Day 2.Reykjavik – Hvalfjörður - Borgarfjörður

The tour departs your hotel at 8:00 (8:00am). Begin the day with a short orientation tour of Reykjavik. Drive along the scenic coastline of Hvalfjordur Fjord, one of Iceland‘s longest and deepest, on the way to Glymur. This is Iceland's second highest waterfall, which descends gracefully in streaming ribbons down a 200-metre (658 foot) drop into a massive canyon adorned in lush, green moss. Both the fjord and the waterfall are linked to a local legend about a mythical whale that swam up the waterfall into the lake at the top. Eerily enough, whale bones have been found here!
Spend some time hiking in the area to enjoy different views of the waterfall and surrounding nature. Before heading to your overnight accommodation, you will also visit the amazing Hraunfossar “’Lava” waterfalls and the Deildartunguhver, the most powerful rushing hot springs in Europe.

Near Deildartunguhver is the Krauma Geothermal Resort. Enjoy a visit here, where you can relax in a variety of hot tubs of different temperatures and take in the beautiful scenery. Krauma also has two soothing steam baths perfect for soothing joints. Then lounge in the relaxation room and enjoy soothing music and a crackling fireplace.

Dinner and overnight stay in Borgarfjordur area.

Highlights: Whale Fjord - Fabulous Waterfall Hike – Europe’s most powerful hot springs – Lava Falls

Approximate driving distance: 185 km (115 miles)

Today’s Hiking Level: 3.5 (out of 5) Moderate Plus


Hiking information for Glymur waterfall:

Distance: 5 km / 3,1 miles

Elevation: 357 m / 1.1172 ft

Walking time: About 4-5 hours

Note: Part of the trail includes walking through a small river on a natural bridge in the water. The crossing is not difficult but good to know about it. (Some people like to carry along a pair of wading shoes to use during this part of the trail, but this is not required)

Please note this is a general guide. Actual times may vary based on weather and trail conditions. Our expert guides will assess and choose the actual hiking routes and hiking duration for each day based on weather and the fitness/experience level of your group.

Day 3. Reykir - Hofsós - Siglufjörður

Continue your discoveries of Borgarfjordur with a refreshing short walk to Glanni, a multi-tiered waterfall rumoured to be a home for elves and trolls. You will then visit the 3,500 year old Grabrok crater, which has hiking trails taking you to the top of the crater for remarkable views over moss-covered lava fields. The hike up the crater is steep, but steps have built on part of the route to make the hike easier.

Continue your scenic journey as you cross Holtavorduheidi plateau, the gateway between North and South Iceland. Head to the Vididalur Valley and its rushing river. Here you will hike in Kolugljufri, a lava rock canyon that leads to a hidden waterfall. Continue to the charming village of Hofsos and take a short stroll down to Stadarbjargarvik inlet to admire a group of beautifully geometric basalt columns located right at sea level. Then drive on to the stunning Tröllaskagi (Troll Peninsula) with its amazing views of mountains and fjords, en route to Siglufjordur town.

Overnight stay in Siglufjordur for the next two nights. Dinner is on your own at one of the town’s charming restaurants. Tonight recharge your body and soul with a soak in the hotel’s geothermal hot tubs. With a view over the harbour and the fjord, the hot tubs are a perfect setting for relaxation.

Overnight in Siglufjordur area. Dinner is on your own at one of the town‘s charming restaurants.

Highlights: Elven waterfall - Intriguing Crater - Lava Rock Canyon - Seaside Basalt Columns

Approximate driving distance: 335 km (208 miles)

Today’s Hiking Level: 2 (out of 5) Easy

Nature walk information for Glanni waterfall:

Distance: 350 m / less than a mile

Elevation: Very little

Walking time: About 10 minutes

———-

Hiking information for Grabrok:

Distance: 1.000 meters / less than a mile

Elevation: 1.000 m / 328 ft

Walking time: About 1 hour

———-

Hiking information for Kolugljufur:

Distance: Varies, route chosen by guide

Elevation: Very little

Walking time: About 30 minutes to 1 hour

———-

Nature walk information for Stadarvikurbjarg:

Distance: Minimal

Elevation: Very little

Walking time: About 5-10 minutes

Please note this is a general guide. Actual times may vary based on weather and trail conditions. Our expert guides will assess and choose the actual hiking routes and hiking duration for each day based on weather and the fitness/experience level of your group.

Day 4. Siglufjordur - Troll Peninsula Hiking - Local Heritage

Trollaskagi, The Troll Peninsula, is a hidden gem in Iceland, a bit separated from the rest of the country by its high mountain range. The area is home to numerous little-known hiking routes showcasing the area’s spectacular scenery.

In the morning visit the award-winning Herring Era Maritime Museum, where the harbour atmosphere of the early 20th century is brought to life in three historical buildings.

In the afternoon, take an exciting and scenic hike. This afternoon’s hike is led by an expert local guide who will decide which trail is best to explore based on the experience level of the group and trail conditions. The total hiking time is variable, based on group experience. Those who do not wish to participate in the locally-guided hike can stay behind in Siglufjordur and enjoy a light walk in the scenic areas around the village with the tour group guide.

After an active day in the outdoors, visit the home of a local resident for a home-cooked meal of hearty Icelandic meat soup featuring local ingredients.

Overnight in Siglufjörður, where you can enjoy the hotel’s geothermal hot tubs..

Highlights: Award Winning Herring Era Museum - Spectacular Hiking – Traditional Meat Soup Dinner

Distance is variable

Today’s Hiking Level: Varies, based on group activity level

Hiking information for Siglufjordur area:

Distance: Varies, route chosen by guide

Elevation: Varies, route chosen by guide

Walking time: Varies, route chosen by guide, max 4-5 hours

If you decide to walk the Siglufjardarskard trail it is a 3.5 – 4 level hike with a distance of 11-12 km (6 -7 miles), elevation of 630 metres/2.067 feet) and 4-5 hours hiking time. Otherwise, alternate routes will be available.

Day 5. Goðafoss - Hverfjall - Lake Mývatn Wonders

The day begins with spectacular views of mountains and coast as you head along the Troll Peninsula and Eyjafjordur fjord. Make a short stop in Akureyri, the "capital" of North. After some time to enjoy the atmosphere of this charming town, we continue to the epic views of picturesque Godafoss, ‘Waterfall of the Gods’. Our journey continues with an exploration of the Lake Myvatn Nature Reserve, a geological wonderland of wildly contrasting nature. With the powerful peaks of Mt. Hverfjall and Krafla volcano as a backdrop, Lake Myvatn has a surprising serenity that is ideal for light hiking. Summertime during peak birding season is a good reason to have the binoculars on hand for the diverse species, possibly even the rare Barrow’s golden eye. Begin your Myvatn adventure with a hike to Hverfjall crater. Nearby is Dimmuborgir, where you’ll take a walk among the strange “Dark Castles” with their rugged stacks of towering rocks.

Take a walk through the Martian-like terrain of Namaskard geothermal field. Here you will view boiling fumaroles, brightly colored slopes and violently bubbling pools of mud. The tour will then stop at the Myvatn Nature Baths where you can see how the locals benefit from the geothermal activity. Enjoy the benefits yourself, with a relaxing swim in these azure blue geothermal springs. It’s a relaxing reward for an adventurous day in the outdoors!

Dinner and overnight in the Mývatn area for the next two nights.

Highlights: Waterfall of the Gods - Geothermal & Volcanic Activity - Outdoor Nature Spa

Approximate driving distance: 185 km / 115 miles

Today’s Hiking Level: 2 (out of 5) Easy

Hiking information for Hverfjall:

Distance: 4 km / 2,5 miles

Elevation: 190 m / 623 ft

Walking time: About 2-2,5 hours

————

Nature walk information for Dimmuborgir:

Distance: 2,4 km / 1,5 miles

Elevation: Very little

Walking time: About 1 – 2 hours

————

Please note this is a general guide. Actual times may vary based on weather and trail conditions. Our expert guides will assess and choose the actual hiking routes and hiking duration for each day based on weather and the fitness/experience level of your group.

Day 6. Vatnajokull National Park - - Ásbyrgi - Jökulsárgljúfur - Dettifoss

Today you will be hiking in the northern part of Vatnajokull National Park, the largest national park in Western Europe. The park is named after vast Vatnajokull Glacier and covers about 14% of Iceland’s surface.

Begin with a trip around the fossil-rich Tjörnes Peninsula on the edge of the Arctic Circle to Vatnajokull National Park. Your first discovery in the park is the enormous horseshoe-shaped Asbyrgi canyon. According to Norse mythology, the canyon is the hoof-print left by Sleipnir, the god Odinn‘s magical eight-legged horse. Take a trail leading to the bottom of the canyon with views of an enchanting pond as well as an area where you can look over the canyon. Continue onwards to Hljodaklettar or ‘Echo Rocks’, a distinctive cluster of angular rock columns. The unique shape of the rocks creates interesting acoustics and echoes. Hlodaklettar is near Jokulsargljufur, Iceland‘s longest canyon. The canyon was carved by a river flowing from Vatnajokull Glacier.

Spend the remainder of your afternoon exploring the lush vegetation and forested areas of Hlodaklettar where stones stand like troll sentinels. (hiking route can be adjusted to the level of the group).

The day ends with an unforgettable visit to Europe’s mightiest waterfall, Dettifoss, a thundering cascade of glacial water and mist among shattered cliffs. An easy trail leads you down to the waterfall. Afterwards, return to the Lake Myvatn area for your overnight.

Overnight and dinner in the Mývatn area.

Highlights: Edge of the Arctic – Horseshoe Canyon - Europe's Mightiest Waterfall - Echoing Rocks

Approximate driving distance: 245 km / 152 miles

Today’s Hiking Level: 2.5 (out of 5) A mix of Easy and Moderate Trails

Hiking information for Asbyrgi:

Distance: 1 km / less than 1 mile

Elevation: Very little

Walking time: About 30 minutes to 1 hour

————

Hiking information for Hljodaklettar:

Distance: 10 km / 6 miles

Elevation: About 50-100 m / About 164 – 328 ft

Walking time: About 3-4 hours (several trails combined)
Note: One of the trails used today is very rocky – we recommended using hiking poles on this day

Please note this is a general guide. Actual times may vary based on weather and trail conditions. Our expert guides will assess and choose the actual hiking routes and hiking duration for each day based on weather and the fitness/experience level of your group.

Day 7. Kjölur - Hveravellir - Gullfoss - Geysir

Today you will head into the wilderness heartland via Kjolur mountain track. This route goes back to Viking times and heads straight through Iceland’s uninhabited interior highlands, passing between the mighty Langjokull and Hofsjokull glaciers. You will see Iceland‘s true remoteness and nature at its rawest. This area of black sand deserts has numerous scenic walking paths along the way, dotted with hidden geothermal treasures and green oases. The highlands also hold ghost stories tales of outlaws, including the famous couple Eyvindur and Halla. Your group will stop at Hveravellir, a multi-coloured geothermal field with a natural pool that is perfect for a relaxing break.

The Kjolur highland route emerges into civilization again in the Gullfoss and Geysir area. Gullfoss, the majestic waterfall of sparkling mist and golden charm is situated on the Hvita River, which is fed by Iceland’s second largest glacier, Langjokull. The intriguing great Geysir area is nearby, a steamy geothermal field of bubbling mud and high-shooting hot springs.

Overnight and dinner in the Hella area. A perfect way to unwind is a soothing soak in the hotel´s geothermal hot tub and sauna.

Highlights: Historical Highland Track– Glacial Views - Geothermal Scenery – Golden Falls and Active Geysers

Approximate driving distance: 465km / 289 miles

Today’s Hiking Level: 1 (out of 5) Very Easy (Expect to be driving on bumpy roads today – part of the fun!)

Day 8. Day in Landmannalaugar

Iceland’s southern highland wilderness sets a surreal stage for today’s adventure. The uninhabited areas of Landmannalaugar and Fjallabak are a geological paradise with volcanic craters, multi-colored rhyolite mountains, steaming lava fields, and the ominous Hekla volcano. There are many beautiful walking trails in the area, and a crater-filled lake lush with brown trout. Today your guide will choose the best route for your group based on your overall experience level and trail conditions. Hiking times vary based on route chosen.

Afterwards, enjoy the benefits of this geothermal area with a refreshing swim in Landmannalaugar’s hot spring fed river, one of the most unique natural springs in Iceland.

Overnight in the Hella area. Dinner is on your own.

Highlights: Mt. Hekla Volcano – Brilliantly-Coloured Wilderness – Hot Springs

Approximate driving distance: ca 210 km / 130 miles

Today’s Hiking Level: 3 (out of 5) Moderate (Expect some roads you drive on today to be quite bumpy)

Hiking information for Landmannalaugar:

Distance: 8,5 km / 5 miles

Elevation: About 300 m / About 984 ft

Walking time: About 4-5 hours (several trails combined)

Please note this is a general guide. Actual times may vary based on weather and trail conditions. Our expert guides will assess and choose the actual hiking routes and hiking duration for each day based on weather and the fitness/experience level of your group.

Day 9. Thorsmork - Seljalandsfoss - Reykjavík

Þórsmörk (Thorsmork), (also known as the Thor’s Playground), should be on every nature lover’s bucket list as this hidden valley resembling paradise is nestled between two glaciers and protected by rivers and mountains. On our way to Thorsmork we stop by Seljalandsfoss waterfall, where you can gain a different perspective by walking behind the curtain of cascading water. Once within Thorsmork, we walk along marked trails in the beautiful scenery of delicate trees and green grass surrounded by towering mountains and glacial tongues. Your guide will choose the best route for your group based on your overall experience level and trail conditions. Hiking times vary based on route chosen.

After a beautiful day here, the tour heads to Reykjavik, arriving around 18:00 (6:00pm)

Overnight stay in Reykjavik. Dinner is on your own.

Highlights: Þórsmörk, Glacial Views - Walk Behind a Waterfall

Approximate driving distance: ca 225 km / 140 miles

Today’s Hiking Level: 3 (out of 5) Moderate (Expect some roads used today to be quite bumpy)

Hiking information for Thorsmork:

Distance: 5-6 km / 3-4 miles

Elevation: About 200-300 m / About 656 – 984 ft

Walking time: About 4-5 hours (several trails combined)

Please note this is a general guide. Actual times may vary based on weather and trail conditions. Our expert guides will assess and choose the actual hiking routes and hiking duration for each day based on weather and the fitness/experience level of your group.

Day 10. Departure

Breakfast at your hotel. Please note that this might be a light breakfast if you are taking an early morning departure flight.

Transfer to the international airport for your departure flight. Airport transfer is not included, but we are happy to help you arrange shared or private transfers. We recommend you depart your hotel no later than three hours before your departure flight.

Return home with fond memories of the power and beauty of Iceland's remote regions.

Note: We reserve the right to alter routes without prior notice due to road conditions.

Evening Horse Riding Tour in Hella - per person
Price: 9469 ISK (69 USD)