As Iceland’s popularity grows, tourists have discovered what locals have always known: the sparsely populated country is a nirvana for hikers. With miles of trails dotted with geological wonders—flowing waterfalls, sawtooth mountains, massive glaciers, steaming fumaroles, and lupine-studded valleys, to name a few—its surreal landscape is best explored on foot. Here are some of the best areas for hiking in Iceland.
## Exploring Iceland’s Untamed Beauty: A Hiker’s Paradise
Iceland, a land of fire and ice, offers some of the most breathtaking and diverse landscapes on Earth. From dramatic coastlines to volcanic highlands, the country is a haven for hikers of all skill levels. Whether you’re seeking solitude in the remote wilderness or exploring accessible trails near the capital, Iceland has something to offer every adventurer. Let’s delve into some of the most exceptional hiking regions, each boasting unique characteristics and unforgettable experiences.
### Hornstrandir Peninsula, Westfjords: A Journey to the Edge of the World
The Hornstrandir Peninsula, cradled within the Westfjords, stands as Iceland’s northernmost reach. This vast expanse, spanning 220 square miles, is a tapestry of mountainous cliffs that plunge dramatically into the embrace of narrow fjords. Stepping onto Hornstrandir is akin to stepping back in time, or perhaps even to another world. There are no year-round permanent settlements to be found; instead, the land belongs to its wild inhabitants. The majestic arctic fox roams freely, sharing its domain with millions of puffins, arctic terns, and countless other bird species that find refuge and nesting grounds on the peninsula’s imposing cliffs.
The sheer isolation of Hornstrandir is its defining characteristic. It’s a place where you can truly feel removed from the hustle and bustle of civilization, a feeling that is both invigorating and humbling. But this seclusion does come with its own set of challenges. Reaching this remote paradise requires careful coordination and meticulous advance planning. Roads are non-existent on the peninsula, meaning that the only access is by sea. Ferries make regular trips to Hornstrandir from the charming towns of Ísafjörður and Bolungarvík during the summer months, specifically from June to August. Therefore, timing your adventure to coincide with the ferry schedule is absolutely crucial.
For those seeking a structured experience, guided hikes offer a seamless way to explore the peninsula’s wonders. These treks range from immersive three-day excursions to epic week-long traverses, providing varying levels of commitment and challenge. If you prefer the path less traveled and wish to venture out on your own, it’s imperative that you equip yourself with a detailed map, readily available from the Westfjords tourism office, and a reliable GPS or compass to navigate the rugged terrain. Preparing meticulously will ensure a safe and unforgettable experience in this pristine wilderness.
### Þórsmörk, Southern Iceland: A Valley Blessed by the Gods
Þórsmörk, a name that echoes through Norse mythology, translates to “Thor’s Valley,” a place fittingly named after the powerful god Thor (Þór). This stunning mountain ridge is nestled between two imposing glaciers, Tindfjallajökull to the south and the infamous Eyjafjallajökull to the north. Eyjafjallajökull, of course, is known for the volcanic eruption that occurred beneath its icy surface in 2010, an event that brought European air traffic to a standstill.
The landscape within and surrounding Þórsmörk is nothing short of breathtaking. It is a testament to Iceland’s incredible geological diversity. Prepare to be mesmerized by the presence of mighty volcanoes, serene river valleys, cascading waterfalls, dramatic canyons, lush birch forests, and verdant green mountains that rise majestically against the skyline. The valley is a true feast for the senses, an ever-changing panorama of natural beauty.
There are several ways to explore the wonders of Þórsmörk. If you are new to the area, a guided tour offers expert knowledge and a worry-free experience. More experienced hikers are welcome to embark on single or multi-day treks, allowing them to immerse themselves in the valley’s raw beauty at their own pace. For those planning an extended stay, campsites and mountain huts are available within the area. During the summer months, convenient bus services operate from Reykjavik to Þórsmörk, providing easy access for those without personal transportation. If you prefer to drive yourself, be aware that a 4WD vehicle is essential, as the area is accessible only via a rugged highland road.
### Landmannalaugar, Southern Iceland: A Geothermal Paradise
Landmannalaugar, situated within the Fjallabak Nature Reserve, is a geothermal wonderland that defies description. This is a place where the raw power of the earth is on full display, creating a surreal and unforgettable landscape. Imagine hiking amidst rainbow-hued rhyolite mountains, their vibrant colors painted across the horizon like a masterpiece. Explore highlands dotted with glaciers, black sand beaches, and cascading waterfalls. Remote and utterly stunning, Landmannalaugar is a perfect encapsulation of all that the Icelandic landscape has to offer. It is a place that captures the heart and leaves you yearning for more.
The highlands surrounding Landmannalaugar are celebrated for their vividly colored mountains and naturally heated, spring-fed streams. These streams are the perfect reward after a long day of hiking. For those looking for a moderately challenging trek, the 4-5 hour hike through the Laugaharaun lava fields is highly recommended. If time and weather permit, consider climbing to the summit of Blahnukur for its unmatched panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. Before you set off, don’t forget to pack your swimsuit! No trip to Landmannalaugar is complete without a rejuvenating soak in one of the area’s geothermal pools, an experience that will soothe your muscles and leave you feeling utterly refreshed.
### Skaftafell, Southern Iceland: Glacier Views and Basalt Wonders
Skaftafell, an area of undeveloped wilderness nestled within the vast Vatnajökull National Park, graces the south coast of Iceland with its magnificent beauty. This region is a popular stop for travelers making their way around the Ring Road, the iconic highway that encircles the country. Skaftafell is home to massive glaciers that carve their way through the landscape and the much-photographed basalt columns of the Svartifoss waterfall, a natural wonder that captivates all who behold it.
Skaftafell offers a diverse selection of day hikes that are typically accessible throughout most of the year. These hikes range in length from a manageable 2.5 miles to a more strenuous 18 miles, catering to different fitness levels and preferences. For those seeking a longer adventure, Skaftafell marks one end of the challenging five-day Nupstaðaskogar to Skaftafell trek. The number of hikers you encounter will gradually decrease as you venture further away from the visitor’s center. If your goal is to find solitude and an empty trail, consider planning a full-day or overnight hike to fully immerse yourself in the tranquility of this remarkable region.
### East Fjords: Discovering Untamed Coastal Beauty
The remote East Fjords region of Iceland often goes overlooked by the majority of the country’s visitors. This lack of crowds only enhances its appeal as one of the best regions for trekking in Iceland. The East Fjords offer a unique blend of stunning natural beauty and cultural charm. Highlights include walking alongside the crystal-clear waters of the Borgarfjordur fjord, soaking in the Selárlaug swimming pool while taking in breathtaking mountain views, admiring the colorful Norwegian-style houses of Seydisfjordur, or learning about the 19th-century history of Faskrúdsfjordur, a town with a fascinating past as a former French fishing settlement.
From the charming village of Borgarfjörður Eystri, hikers can choose from a selection of more than a dozen well-marked day hikes, encompassing a total of 86 miles (140 kms) of trails. For the truly adventurous, embark on all or part of the ten-day trek along the scenic Víknaslóðir, also known as “The trails of the inlets,” and immerse yourself in the East Fjord’s stunning coastal landscapes.
### The Snaefellsnes Peninsula: Iceland in Miniature
The Snaefellsnes Peninsula, often affectionately nicknamed “Iceland in miniature,” offers an incredible concentration of the country’s varied landscapes within a relatively compact 50-mile-long strip of land. This geological gem is dotted with cascading waterfalls, dramatic black sand beaches, majestic glaciers, intriguing caves, dormant volcanoes, and imposing basalt cliffs. The peninsula’s extraordinary geological diversity, combined with its abundance of hiking trails, makes it an exceptional destination for trekking enthusiasts.
One of the most popular areas for hiking on the peninsula is the Snaefellsjokull National Park, home to a network of trails of varying lengths and difficulty levels. For an unforgettable experience, consider joining a guided hike along the Snaefellsjokull glacier. Ambitious hikers can tackle the challenging 20-mile hike along the peninsula’s southern coast, stretching from the Djúpalónssandur pebbled beach to the elegant Hotel Budir. Those with less time can enjoy a shorter, but equally rewarding, walk from the picturesque town of Arnarstapi to the charming Hellnar fishing village, traversing the otherworldly Hellnahraun lava field in approximately an hour.
The Snaefellsnes Peninsula is conveniently located about two hours northwest of Reykjavik. Due to the limited availability of campsites, it is essential to plan your route and accommodations in advance.
### Hiking near Reykjavik: Nature at Your Doorstep
Even within the capital region of Iceland, the population density quickly thins out, and the amount of open space increases dramatically as soon as you venture beyond the city center. If you are short on time or rely on public transportation, it is still easy to escape into the Icelandic countryside for a refreshing dose of nature. Mount Esja, the snow-capped mountain that rises majestically across the bay from downtown Reykjavik, can be reached in less than 30 minutes by bus, and the climb to its summit takes only about two hours. Helgafell, meaning “Holy Mountain,” is situated near the town of Hafnarfjörður, approximately six miles from Reykjavik, and offers stunning views of the Reykjanes peninsula. Úlfarsfel, a 3,000-foot-tall mountain located just three miles from the city center, provides a two-hour round-trip hike with panoramic views of Mt. Esja, Faxafloi Bay, and the city of Reykjavik sprawling in the distance.
For those with a bit more time to spare, a trip to the Reykjadalur valley near the town of Hveragerði, about 40 minutes from Reykjavik by car, is highly recommended. The hike through this geothermally active valley is only about two miles round trip. However, be sure to allocate extra time to fully enjoy the main attraction: a scalding hot spring that merges with a cold river, creating a naturally heated pool that is the perfect temperature for a relaxing soak.
### A Final Word on Safety in the Icelandic Wilderness
Trekking in Iceland, even on seemingly short day hikes, should never be undertaken without thorough preparation. This means carefully checking the weather forecast, packing sufficient food and water, informing someone of your planned route and expected return time, carrying a map and compass if necessary, and dressing in warm, waterproof layers to protect yourself from the elements. Icelandic weather is notoriously unpredictable and can change rapidly without warning. Dress appropriately for a range of conditions and exercise extra caution near cliff edges and when crossing rivers. Your safety is paramount.
With proper planning and respect for the environment, your hiking adventure in Iceland will undoubtedly be an unforgettable experience. Enjoy the stunning landscapes, the invigorating fresh air, and the unparalleled sense of freedom that only the Icelandic wilderness can provide!
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