Explore Iceland’s Southern Highlands: Top Trails & Hikes

The Southern Highlands of Iceland reveal a breathtaking, untouched wilderness that captivates all who venture there. Here, volcanic landscapes weave together with glacial rivers and soaring peaks, crafting an otherworldly experience for hikers. Distant from the popular routes of the Golden Circle and South Coast, this region presents some of Iceland’s most rewarding and remote trails.

From the geothermal valleys of Landmannalaugar to the verdant birch forests of Þórsmörk, the untamed beauty of Fjallabak beckons. Hidden canyons such as Þakgil and the geothermal marvel of Kerlingarfjöll offer moments of magic, promising an unforgettable journey through Iceland’s rugged terrain.

Whether you’re a seasoned hiker yearning for challenging multi-day treks or a casual explorer seeking stunning short hikes, the Southern Highlands serve up an adventure like no other.

Exploring the Icelandic Highlands with a Guide

While the Icelandic highlands boast some of the country’s most magnificent and untouched landscapes, traversing this rugged and remote terrain demands expertise, the appropriate vehicle, and a keen understanding of its ever-shifting conditions. Many highland routes require navigating river crossings, steep mountain roads, and unmarked paths. Thus, enlisting the help of a professional guide is highly recommended.

Experienced guides not only ensure your safety but also enrich your adventure with captivating stories, local legends, and deep insights into the region’s geological and cultural significance. Wherever your journey takes you in the highlands, a guided tour allows you to immerse yourself totally in the experience, letting seasoned professionals handle the logistics and challenges.

Fjallabak Nature Reserve
Untamed Beauty in the Highlands

Tucked away in the heart of the central highlands, Fjallabak Nature Reserve stands as a protected sanctuary of towering mountains, black sand deserts, and lush, moss-covered lava fields. The name “Fjallabak,” meaning “behind the mountains,” aptly describes this remote and wild terrain.

Sprawling over 47,000 hectares, the reserve presents a diverse landscape shaped by millennia of volcanic activity and glacial erosion. It houses some of Iceland’s most stunning natural wonders—from the striking green slopes of Mælifell Mountain, rising dramatically from the black sands of Mælifellssandur, to the serene Álftavatn Lake, a nesting ground for migratory birds in summer.

Fjallabak’s landscapes are in constant flux, with road and weather conditions guiding the best routes. Those who venture into this remote haven are treated to some of Iceland’s most breathtaking yet lesser-visited natural wonders.

Highlights of Fjallabak Nature Reserve

Mt. Mælifell: A vividly green peak jutting sharply from the vast black volcanic sands of Mælifellssandur, this iconic mountain, formed by glacial floods and cloaked in bright moss, creates an extraordinary contrast against the dark desert landscape. It remains one of the most photographed landmarks within the Icelandic Highlands.

Álftavatn Lake: A tranquil glacial lake bathed in sunlight, bordered by rolling hills and jagged mountain ridges. This serene oasis, known as “Swan Lake,” is a haven for migratory birds like the whooper swan. Nestled along the famed Laugavegur Trail, it reflects the surrounding peaks in its glassy waters on calm days.

Geothermal Hot Springs: Scattered throughout Fjallabak Nature Reserve, these natural hot springs offer a soothing escape after a day of hiking. The region’s geothermal activity manifests in steaming rivers, bubbling mud pots, and warm pools, perfect for unwinding while soaking in the tranquility of the Highlands.

Þórsmörk
The Valley of Thor & A Hiker’s Paradise

Þórsmörk, or Thor’s Valley, stands as a lush, glacially carved corridor, nestled amid three of Iceland’s most renowned glaciers: Eyjafjallajökull, Mýrdalsjökull, and Tindfjallajökull. Named after the Norse god of thunder, this valley has become a beloved destination for hikers and nature enthusiasts alike, offering a plethora of scenic trails, towering ridges, and moss-laden canyons.

The journey to Þórsmörk itself is an adventure, requiring a 4×4 vehicle to traverse unbridged glacial rivers and rugged highland paths—a feat that Hidden Iceland can facilitate. What awaits is an untouched paradise where lush birch forests, lava fields, and deep ravines present a dramatic juxtaposition against the stark beauty of surrounding glaciers.

Thanks to its unique microclimate, Þórsmörk enjoys a warmer and greener ambiance compared to other highland regions, creating a genuine oasis for nature lovers.

Notable Hikes in Þórsmörk

Stakkholtsgjá Canyon: A narrow and dramatic ravine, the canyon is carved through towering rock walls, leading to a secluded waterfall deep within. The short yet fulfilling hike through these moss-covered cliffs and intricate rock formations makes this one of Iceland’s most picturesque canyons.

Valahnúkur Mountain: A relatively short but steep ascent, this hike rewards those who make the trek with sweeping panoramic views over Þórsmörk, Mýrdalsjökull Glacier, and Eyjafjallajökull Volcano. On a clear day, the view extends to the Westman Islands.

Fimmvörðuháls Pass: This iconic 24 km trek is one of Iceland’s most coveted hikes, connecting Þórsmörk to Skógar. The trail winds between the glaciers of Eyjafjallajökull and Mýrdalsjökull, leading hikers past the new volcanic craters, Magni and Móði, which emerged during the 2010 eruption, before cascading down past Skógafoss Waterfall toward the coast.

Landmannalaugar
A Geothermal Wonderland in the Highlands

Affectionately known as the jewel of Iceland’s highlands, Landmannalaugar resides within the Fjallabak Nature Reserve. Famed for its vividly colored rhyolite mountains, steaming hot springs, and boundless hiking trails, it offers a dazzling palette of nature’s artistry. After a day of exploration, visitors can relax in the natural hot spring nestled at the base of the valley—a geothermal oasis used for centuries.

Top Hikes in Landmannalaugar

Brennisteinsalda (Sulphur Wave): This moderate hike winds past steaming fumaroles and vibrant mineral-streaked mountains, showcasing one of the most surreal landscapes in the highlands. The multicolored rhyolite slopes painted in shades of yellow, red, green, and black make for an unforgettable visual experience.

Bláhnúkur (Blue Peak): Often combined with the Brennisteinsalda hike, ascending to Bláhnúkur presents a challenging climb to one of the most iconic summits in Landmannalaugar. The deep blue-grey volcanic peak rewards adventurers with breathtaking 360° views of the surrounding highlands, including the Fjallabak Nature Reserve and Hekla Volcano.

Laugavegur Trail: Renowned as one of the world’s premier multi-day treks, the 55 km Laugavegur Trail takes hikers from the geothermal heartland of Landmannalaugar to the lush valley of Þórsmörk over four days. The route offers a mesmerizing array of landscapes—from bubbling geothermal valleys and stark obsidian lava fields to crystal-clear lakes, vast black sands, and verdant birch forests.

Kerlingarfjöll
A Geothermal Wonderland in the Highlands

Nestled between the glaciers of Hofsjökull and Langjökull, Kerlingarfjöll is one of Iceland’s most mesmerizing highland terrains. Recognized for its steaming valleys, bubbling mud pools, and rust-toned rhyolite mountains, this enchanting locale invites adventurers to uncover its wonders. As you journey from the lowlands into the highlands, you’ll discover tales steeped in local folklore and mythology.

Once part of a volcanic range, Kerlingarfjöll now thrives as a geothermal haven, where boiling hot springs and fumaroles create a constantly evolving landscape of mist and brilliant mineral hues.

A visit to Highland Base Kerlingarfjöll provides comfortable accommodations, gourmet dining, and expert guides, offering a perfect launching pad for adventure. Whether you’re hiking under the Midnight Sun or snowmobiling across a winter wonderland, Kerlingarfjöll guarantees an experience that will remain etched in your memory.

Activities available from Highlands Base

E-Mountain Biking: Navigate rugged trails effortlessly on an electric mountain bike, allowing you to cover more ground while soaking in dramatic landscapes. From winding through volcanic valleys in summer to traversing snowy trails in winter, every ride is unforgettable.

Snowmobiling & Snowshoeing: Experience the magic of the highlands in winter with an exhilarating guided snowmobile adventure or a more tranquil snowshoe trek through untouched wilderness, both offering breathtaking views of geothermal valleys and majestic mountains.

Cross-Country Skiing: Glide across pristine highland terrain amidst dramatic peaks and steaming geothermal areas. Kerlingarfjöll presents a unique opportunity to explore one of Iceland’s most remote and captivating ski destinations.

Highland Baths: After a day filled with adventure, unwind in the natural geothermal pools nestled within the highlands. The mineral-rich waters, warmed by Iceland’s volcanic energy, provide the perfect remedy for relaxation amid stunning surroundings.

Notable Hikes in Kerlingarfjöll

Hveradalir (Hot Spring Valley): This geothermal wonderland is filled with steaming vents, bubbling mud pools, and gushing rivers, set against bright orange and red rhyolite mountains. Well-marked trails allow you to choose between longer treks or short explorations of the main valley—either way, it’s a must-see highlight.

Snækollur Summit: At 1,477 meters, this highest peak in Kerlingarfjöll offers spectacular panoramic views of the central highlands. Though the ascent is steep and demanding, the scenery awaiting you at the summit makes it one of the most sought-after hikes in this remarkable region.

Austurfjöll Ridge: This scenic ridge walk along the eastern mountain range of Kerlingarfjöll provides breathtaking views of the steaming Hveradalir valley below. It’s a moderate hike that strikingly balances challenge and stunning scenery, making it an excellent choice for those eager to explore the highlands year-round.

Þakgil
A Hidden Highland Retreat

Located a mere 14 kilometers from Iceland’s Ring Road, Þakgil is a secluded canyon embraced by rugged volcanic cliffs and glacial rivers. Unlike its more well-trodden counterparts, Þakgil presents a unique blend of lush green valleys and striking rock formations, making it an ideal hiking destination for those seeking solitude amidst unspoiled beauty.

Providing access to three major hiking trails of varying distances and difficulty levels, the campsite featuresa plaque that details each hike, allowing visitors to follow the markers as they embark on their adventure.

Hiking Trails in Þakgil

Mælifell Trail: This demanding hike traverses lush valleys, glacial rivers, and stunning volcanic landscapes, culminating in spectacular panoramic views over the Katla Glacier region. Along the way, hikers will encounter the cascading waterfall Leynir and navigate steep ravines, ensuring a true off-the-beaten-path experience.

Austurafréttur Range: A demanding yet rewarding trek that meanders through rugged ridges and expansive mountain scenery, offering unparalleled views of Kötlujökull Glacier. This diverse landscape encompasses deep canyons, high plateaus, and vivid green valleys, presenting a striking canvas for exploration.

Remundargil Ravine: This trail winds through a dramatic canyon filled with hidden waterfalls and towering basalt formations, offering breathtaking views of glacial landscapes and a wild, remote adventure suited for experienced hikers.

Embark on Your Highland Adventure

The Southern Highlands represent some of Iceland’s most breathtaking and least explored regions, offering a myriad of options for every hiker—whether you prefer short, scenic trails or multi-day expeditions through the wildest landscapes the country has to offer.

Are you ready to delve into the heart of Iceland’s highlands? Connect with Hidden Iceland, and allow us to craft the ultimate hiking adventure tailored specifically to your travel style and interests.