Trekking Tours - 12+ days

The best time for trekking and hiking in Iceland is during the summer months, and to be more precise from mid June to end of August, when the weather is milder, the trails are open, and plenty of daylight (midnight sun). Some trails, like the Laugavegur Trail, are usually open from mid-June to mid-September.

While many popular trails in Iceland, are well-marked and manageable without a guide, it is highly recommended for less experienced hikers or for more remote regions. Weather can change quickly in Iceland, and local guides help ensure safety and provide insights into the landscape and geology.

Here are the key benefits of having a guide

Safety and Local Expertise
Icelandss weather is notoriously unpredictable, with sudden storms, dense fog, and swift temperature changes that can make even well-marked trails dangerous. A local guide is familiar with the weather patterns and can make informed decisions on whether to proceed or alter the route to ensure your safety. They also have experience navigating difficult terrains, such as river crossings or volcanic landscapes, which can pose challenges to inexperienced hikers.

Knowledge of the Environment
Iceland is known for its unique geology, diverse ecosystems, and historical landmarks. A guide can enrich your hiking experience by providing in-depth knowledge of the area, from the volcanic activity shaping the landscape to the folklore surrounding local landmarks. They can also help identify plant and wildlife species you might encounter, making the hike more educational and meaningful.

Access to Hidden Gems
 Many guides are locals with extensive knowledge of lesser-known trails and hidden spots not listed in typical tourist guides. They can take you off the beaten path to discover secluded hot springs, remote waterfalls, or unique geological formations that you may not find on your own. This allows you to experience Iceland beyond the popular tourist routes.

Cultural Insight  
Icelandic culture and history are deeply intertwined with the land. A guide can share stories of local traditions, sagas, and folklore associated with the areas you hike through. This insight adds a cultural layer to your adventure, providing a richer understanding of Icelands heritage.

Stress-Free Planning  
Planning a hike in Iceland, especially in remote or difficult areas, requires careful preparation. A guide handles the logistics for you, including route planning, timing, and ensuring you have the right equipment. This allows you to focus on enjoying the hike without worrying about navigation or weather complications.

Tailored Experience
Many guided tours can be customized based on your interests, fitness level, and time frame. Whether you are interested in photography, wildlife spotting, or simply seeking a challenging trek, a guide can tailor the hike to meet your preferences, offering a more personalized experience.

Emergency Response and Support  
In the event of an emergency, a guide is trained to handle situations such as injuries, sudden weather changes, or getting lost. They carry necessary equipment, such as GPS devices, radios, and first-aid kits, and can assist with evacuation or contacting emergency services if needed.

Glacier and Volcanic Hiking  
If you want to explore glaciers, ice caves, or volcanic areas, hiring a guide is essential. These environments require specialized knowledge and equipment, such as crampons and ice axes for glaciers. Guides are trained to ensure safety in these dangerous terrains and can take you to places that would be impossible to access safely on your own.

Cell phone coverage can be unreliable or non-existent in remote areas, especially in the Highlands or on some trails like Laugavegur. It?s advisable to carry a map, compass, and GPS device and extra batteries if travelling on your own but all items a guide will have on a guided tour.

Laugavegur Trail (55 km)
One of Icelands most famous multi-day hikes, the Laugavegur Trail runs from Landmannalaugar to Þórsmörk. It offers a variety of landscapes, from colorful rhyolite mountains to hot springs, glaciers, and black sand deserts.

Fimmvörðuháls Trail (25 km)
Starting in Skógar and ending in Þórsmörk, this challenging one-day trek passes waterfalls, including the famous Skógafoss, and two active volcanic craters formed during the 2010 Eyjafjallajökull eruption.

Hornstrandir Nature Reserve
In Iceland?s remote Westfjords, this isolated area offers rugged multi-day hikes with no roads or infrastructure. Known for its dramatic cliffs, Arctic foxes, and untouched wilderness, it?s ideal for experienced trekkers seeking solitude.

Icelanders are very protective of their environment. It is important to:

- Stick to marked paths to avoid damaging fragile vegetation and moss.
- Carry out all trash, as there are limited facilities on the trails.
- Respect wildlife and avoid disturbing natural habitats.
- Leave no trace, ensuring that Icelands pristine nature is preserved for future visitors.

Here below you can find a detailed list of what to bring on a multi day trek in Iceland. In our tours we also include comprehensive equipment list aimed at each tour.

Essential clothing

- Hiking boots Sturdy, waterproof with good ankle support.
- Long-sleeve thermal shirt wool or synthetic material.
- Short-sleeve thermal t-shirt wool or synthetic material.
- Lightweight wool or fleece sweater for a second layer of warmth.
- Quick-drying trousers made from durable, lightweight material like soft-shell fabric.
- Waterproof and windproof jacket with a hood breathable material like Gore-Tex or similar.
- Waterproof and windproof rain pants breathable. Full raingear is mandatory in Iceland due to the weather. - Ponchos are not suitable because of the wind.
- Two pairs of gloves wool or synthetic, with different thicknesses for various conditions.
- Wool or synthetic socks bring two or three pairs.
- Warm hat made from wool or synthetic material.

Other Gear

- A duffel bag for transporting your overnight gear between huts. Please avoid bringing a suitcase!
- Day backpack for extra clothes and a lunch pack during the day. Size: 25 to 40L (1500 to2500 cu in).
- River shoes Walking sandals or old running shoes with a good grip are ideal, along with warm socks or neoprene socks.
- Open sandals or flip-flops are not suitable.
- Sleeping bag A basic sleeping bag with no specific temperature rating is sufficient, as all huts are heated.
- Towel Lightweight and packable.
- Sunglasses
- Water container ? Thermos flask, water bottle (0.5?1L), or CamelBak.
- Headlamp for reading and getting around the hut.
- Change of clothes for wearing in the hut.
- Personal first aid kit ? Including blister care.
- Prescription medication and other personal health items.
- Toiletries: Toothbrush, toothpaste, soap, etc.
- Earplugs.
- Lunch box.


Optional Gear

- Walking pole(s) ? To protect the environment, please keep the rubber tip protectors on.
- Power bank/extra battery for your electronics - Solar chargers usually do not work well in Iceland, so a pre-charged power bank is a better option. Charging your electronics in the highlands may not be available or might cost extra. Having adapters for 220V and/or USB will help.
- Gaiters (recommended for departures in June and early July).
- Pocket knife.
- Sun/rain hat or a cap. Shorts.
- Small thermal mat -To sit on during lunch breaks.
- Puffy jacket (e.g., Primaloft or down).
- Dry bags - For electronics and extra clothing.
-Slippers for indoor use.
- Pillow or pillowcase - Wrap a sweater or down jacket for a makeshift pillow.
- Cash for showers - Showers and unexpected itiems