Get off the beaten track and discover Iceland’s otherworldly volcanic landscape on a multi-day hike in the country’s less traveled Highlands region. Choose one of these 3 trekking itineraries and experience everything the storied Volcanic Trails have to offer: lava fields, mountains, and so much more.
## Exploring Iceland’s Untamed Beauty: A Deep Dive into the Volcanic Trails
The allure of Iceland extends far beyond the well-trodden paths of Reykjavik and the immensely popular Golden Circle, areas that often capture the majority of visitors’ attention. For those with a spirit of adventure and a love for the great outdoors, dedicating a few days to traversing the country’s diverse Volcanic Trails is an absolute must. Nestled within the southern Highlands of Iceland, this intricate network of trails meanders through seemingly endless expanses of solidified lava fields, crosses pristine rivers, and winds through valleys carpeted in lush, vibrant moss. Embarking on the Volcanic Trails promises an unforgettable journey to remote and secluded locations, where only a privileged few have had the opportunity to set foot. Prepare to be captivated by some of Iceland’s most breathtaking landscapes, all while enjoying the tranquility and serenity that only true isolation can provide.
In the course of just a few days, you will ascend majestic mountains, immerse yourself in naturally heated hot springs, gaze upon enigmatic lakes and glaciers, and uncover an entirely new facet of Iceland – a side that remains largely unseen by the typical tourist. These remarkable trails will guide you from the summit of Sveinstindur mountain, a vantage point that, on a clear day, presents arguably the most stunning panoramic views in the entire country, all the way to Landmannalaugar, situated within the Fjallabak Nature Reserve. Landmannalaugar is a geological wonderland characterized by its strikingly colorful rhyolite mountains. The entirety of the Volcanic Trails route stretches for an impressive 80 miles, requiring approximately nine days to complete in full. However, the route can be conveniently divided into three distinct, shorter itineraries, each ranging from three to five days in duration, allowing for a more tailored and manageable hiking experience.
## Essential Pre-Trek Considerations for the Volcanic Trails
Given that a significant portion of your time will be spent exposed to the elements, the weather conditions play a crucial role in the overall experience of hiking the Volcanic Trails. The optimal period for undertaking these hikes is during the months of July and August, when the weather is generally more stable and temperate. However, it’s important to remember that sandstorms and strong winds are frequent occurrences in this region, even during the summer months. Therefore, ensuring that your camera equipment and sunglasses are specifically designed to withstand such harsh conditions is paramount.
Regarding essential gear, be prepared to encounter rivers with varying depths and currents. Water shoes and insulated neoprene socks are not merely recommended, but indispensable. In addition to this, it’s wise to pack a complete change of clothing within your backpack, as well as crucial accessories like a warm hat and gloves, considering that snow can persist year-round in certain higher elevations of the Highlands.
Accommodation will likely consist of overnight stays in one of the available mountain huts strategically located along the trails. Securing advance reservations for these huts is absolutely necessary. Keep in mind that you may be sharing a room, as well as a bunk, with fellow travelers. While all huts provide running water, the availability of showers varies. Therefore, it is advisable to thoroughly investigate the amenities offered by each hut before confirming your booking.
Finally, attempting to hike the Volcanic Trails without the guidance of a qualified and experienced professional is strongly discouraged. Due to the absence of markings or signposts along the trails, the risk of becoming disoriented and lost is significant. Furthermore, it’s recommended to bring a portable power bank to keep your electronic devices charged, as well as a supply of cash, as most supplementary services in the huts (such as showers and phone-charging outlets) require payment in cash, and credit cards are typically not accepted.
## Trekking Option #1: From Sveinstindur to the Magnificent Eldgjá Volcanic Fissure
Commence your adventure atop Mount Sveinstindur, a strategic location that offers a breathtaking panoramic vista. To the north, behold the colossal Vatnajökull glacier and the expansive Lake Langisjór. To the south, marvel at the Laki Lava Fields, uniquely adorned with an ethereal covering of vivid green moss. Continue your trek along the banks of the impressive 71-mile Skaftá River, fed by the melting waters of the nearby Vatnajökull glacier and Lake Langasjór. Arrive at the Uxatindar Peaks and stand in awe of the stunning lava formations and the stark black volcanic landscape that unfolds before you. The final destination on this three-day journey is Eldgjá, also referred to as the Fire Canyon, a significant part of the same volcanic system as the formidable Katla volcano. As the largest volcanic fissure on Earth, Eldgjá presents a truly awe-inspiring sight, stretching for an impressive 24 miles.
Overnight accommodations are available at several strategically placed mountain huts located at Sveinstindur, Skælingar, and Hólaskjól.
**Distance:** Approximately 26 miles (42 kilometers)
**Duration:** 4 days, 3 nights
## Trekking Option #2: Exploring the Torfajökull Rhyolite Massif
The Fjallabak Nature Reserve holds the distinction of being Iceland’s largest rhyolite area and its third-largest geothermal region. This translates to abundant opportunities to witness steaming natural pools and multi-hued landscapes throughout this segment of the Volcanic Trails. This particular trek will lead you to the enchanting Álftavötn Lakes and the Syðri Ófæra River, which originates in the Torfajökull glacier volcano. Although the last eruption occurred in 1477, the volcano is still classified as active. Given the consistently low average temperatures within the reserve (around 33 degrees Fahrenheit), coupled with strong winds and frequent sandstorms, vegetation is relatively sparse. This creates a distinctive landscape characterized by jet-black soil punctuated by patches of green that become increasingly abundant as you approach the rivers or the lakes.
Fortunately, should you feel chilled, you can interrupt your hike and indulge in a rejuvenating dip in the blissful Strútslaug natural pool, nestled between the Torfajökull and Mýrdalsjökull glaciers. Extend your adventure through the dramatic Mýrdalssandur volcanic plain until you arrive at the intimate Hvanngil Valley, a section of the highly popular Laugavegur hiking trail. Finally, stroll along the shores of the Kaldaklofskvísl River, with the imposing Stórasúla mountain looming overhead, and absorb the otherworldly atmosphere of the highlands.
Overnight accommodations are available in mountain huts located in Álftavötn, Strútur, and Hvanngil.
**Distance:** Approximately 36 miles (58 kilometers)
**Duration:** 5 days, 4 nights
## Trekking Option #3: Discovering Fjallabak and the Wonders of Landmannalaugar
Encompassing approximately 24 miles, this itinerary represents the shortest of the three, leading you to the picturesque Álftavatn Lake (Swan Lake). Like many locations in Iceland, this lake has its own compelling tale. According to legend, a farmer tragically drowned in the lake and was only discovered after his wife dreamt of his precise location. The tranquil lake is surrounded by majestic mountains and is a relatively popular destination for fellow hikers during the summer months. Venture eastward along the Laugavegur Trail towards the vibrant Ljósártungur area, a region renowned for its countless gullies, ridges, and geothermal hot springs. With the proper equipment and an experienced guide, you can even explore ice caves during the winter months. Even in the summer, you may encounter areas still blanketed in snow, a striking visual juxtaposition against the backdrop of the orange-hued mountains and the brilliant blue sky.
Your journey will involve traversing rivers and streams until you reach Landmannalaugar, widely considered the crown jewel of the southern Highlands. Landmannalaugar is renowned for its stunning rhyolite mountains that appear to shift in color as the sun emerges from behind the clouds. Proceed towards the nearby Laugahraun Lava Field, a mysterious plain of solidified magma that formed over 500 years ago, providing the ideal location to conclude your Volcanic Trails adventure.
Overnight stays are available at huts in Álftavatn and Dalakofinn.
**Distance:** Approximately 24 miles (39 kilometers)
**Duration:** 3 days, 2 nights
B-1143