Iceland: A Hiker’s Paradise
In the vast realm of breathtaking hiking destinations, Iceland unquestionably shines. Every trail offers not just a pathway, but an adventure that is as remarkable as the landscapes that surround it.
From the enchanting, secluded paths of the north to the striking, dramatic vistas of the south, Iceland’s hiking trails present a spectrum of experiences for adventurers of all skill levels—whether you seek a leisurely jaunt or a demanding trek.
To guide you on this journey, we have curated a selection of our favorite hiking trails across the country, organized by region, each one promising an unforgettable escape into nature.
Where to Find Iceland’s Best Trails
The finest hiking trails in Iceland can be found throughout the nation, with standout routes including segments of the iconic Laugavegur Trail, the stunning Reykjanes Peninsula Trails, the Hveradalir Hiking Trail in Kerlingarfjöll, and the mesmerizing glacier treks in Vatnajökull National Park. However, there are many more gems showcasing Iceland’s natural beauty, as we will explore below, starting from the north and working our way south.
Trekking in Northern Iceland
Our adventure begins in North Iceland, a region marked by some of the country’s most breathtaking and challenging hiking trails. While many travelers dedicate several days to exploring this remote landscape, Hidden Iceland has devised a way for you to experience the highlights in a single, unforgettable day.
Equipped with 4×4 superjeeps and accompanied by expert local guides, we’ve condensed the majestic multi-day Öskjuvegur route—familiarly known as the Askja Trail—into a thrilling experience culminating in a hike around the stunning Askja crater.
The charm of this area lies in its remoteness. Few tourists venture this far due to unpredictable weather and limited shelter. Yet those who do embark on this journey are handsomely rewarded. Standing on the rim of Askja crater, it feels as though you’ve landed on another planet—an astute impression, considering NASA used this very terrain to train astronauts for their lunar expeditions in the 1960s.
For safety reasons, the trail is typically accessible only during the summer months for regular 4×4 vehicles, so plan your visit accordingly. In winter, you can still experience this extraordinary landscape by arranging a superjeep tour with our local partners in the area.
But the Askja Trail is merely one entry point into the hiking paradise of Northern Iceland. The Hverfjall Crater, for instance, presents a 3 km walk along the rim of an inactive volcano, rewarding hikers with panoramic views of the stunning Lake Mývatn. One of the joys of hiking in Iceland is the opportunity to unwind in relaxing natural hot springs after your trek.
If you’re keen on remarkable scenery, rich local culture, and perhaps even some whale watching, the Arctic Coast Way and the Diamond Circle offer fantastic hiking opportunities. Many of our guests have hailed the trails around Ásbyrgi Canyon as a highlight of their journey.
What makes these hikes truly exceptional is their adaptability. Whether you’re spotting wildlife, including seals and puffins, or indulging in regional delicacies like freshly caught Arctic char, Hidden Iceland can tailor your adventure to perfectly align with your pace and preferences.
Hike around the remarkable Askja Caldera
The trail around Hverfjall Crater is unforgettable
Lake Myvatn offers remarkable sights while you hike
Trails in Iceland’s Eastfjords
Among the hidden treasures of Iceland is Borgarfjörður Eystri, a veritable hiking paradise. Here, trails weave through remote fjords and old farms, offering a glimpse into the country’s cultural history. This region is also celebrated as one of the best locations to observe puffins, particularly at Hafnarhólmi harbor, where these delightful birds flock during the summer months.
In the Eastfjords, the Dyrfjöll mountain range, aptly named “mountain door,” features a dramatic gap between its twin peaks, inviting you into its enchanting realm—a place steeped in folklore.
As you traverse the surreal landscape of Stórurð, with boulders as large as houses bordering the most crystalline waters, you’ll begin to believe that anything is indeed possible.
“My favorite place to explore is Eastfjords for its majestic mountain and fjord scenery, unlimited hiking opportunities, often better weather and its end of the world feeling away from most other tourists,” shares our travel expert, Dr. Holly Spring.
To dive deeper into Iceland’s enchanting beauty, book your luxury hiking trip with Hidden Iceland today. We’ll craft an itinerary that reveals sights beyond your imagination.
The mountain door at Dyrfjöll is calling
The Eastfjords coastline is a wonder to walk
See the most remarkable sights at the Eastfjords
Hiking in the Golden Circle
Few countries allow you to traverse a geothermal valley on foot, and even fewer offer the chance to unwind in hot springs afterward. The Golden Circle—conveniently close to Reykjavík—serves as a spectacular hiking option where you can enjoy Iceland’s natural wonders alongside convenience.
At Gullfoss Waterfall, a short and manageable trail leads to viewing platforms that provide postcard-perfect vistas from above, allowing you to feel the power of the tumbling water up close.
The Haukadalur geothermal valley features well-marked trails past Geysir and Strokkur, two of the nation’s most famous bubbling thermal vents. Enjoy the hike year-round, with options for various distances depending on how deeply you wish to explore.
For many, the highlight of their day will be the multiple trails around Þingvellir National Park, guiding you directly into the cracks and fissures formed by tectonic movement beneath the surface. Fans of *Game of Thrones* will recognize this stunning backdrop from scenes filmed in the latter seasons.
The rushing water at Gullfoss is a treat for the senses
The powerful Strokkur Geysir
Gullfoss offers wonderful views atop a waterfall
Hiking Along the South Coast
Iceland’s south coast is lined with trails that are irresistibly immersive, with many included in our Hidden Escapes: Tailor-Made Iceland Hiking Retreat. The short loop around Seljalandsfoss captivates from a distance but becomes truly enchanting up close, as the waterfall roars and sparkles in the sunlight.
During the summer months, you can walk behind Seljalandsfoss, a unique experience akin to stepping behind the curtain at a magic show—offering an entirely different view of the cascading water.
The Skogafoss Waterfall Way reveals stunning views of Iceland’s natural beauty. The path connects to the Fimmvörðuháls trail, known for its dramatic difficulty yet extraordinary rewards. Stretching across 25 km from Eyjafjallajökull to Þórsmörk in the Southern Highlands, it stands out as one of Iceland’s most breathtaking treks. For those who prefer a shorter journey, the first kilometer of the trail will reward you with numerous smaller waterfalls before you head back down to sea level.
And we cannot overlook the magnificent glacier hikes available across the region. The breathtaking experience of a glacier hike in Vatnajökull National Park is unparalleled. Nearby Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon adds to the magic, ensuring your visit becomes an unforgettable memory. Our glacier hikes can be customized to include shorter, easier treks, longer expeditions into the mountains, or even a thrilling session of ice climbing for the adventurous at heart.
A hike to Falljökull Glacier.
Incredible hiking opportunities at Þórsmörk
Walk around the Seljalandsfoss waterfall
Hiking Through the Southern Highlands
The array of hiking trails in Iceland’s Southern Highlands is truly unmatched. Short day hikes offer glimpses of geothermal marvels, while those pursuing a true challenge can embark on the four-day, 55 km Laugavegur Trail—a remarkable experience encompassing glaciers, forests, hot springs, and lava fields. Each day on the trail reveals a new world.
Internationally celebrated for its stunning scenery and remoteness, the Laugavegur Trail is a must-experience trek for any avid hiker. With Hidden Iceland, we ensure guests see the best of this route while enjoying the luxury service we pride ourselves on. We offer day excursions to Landmannalaugar and Þórsmörk, which mark the endpoints of the Laugavegur trail, showcasing its most spectacular scenery and allowing travelers to rest in luxurious lodgings at night.
Þórsmörk, or the ‘Valley of Thor,’ is a highlight of the Highlands. To reach this enchanting valley, you’ll need to traverse several rivers—some challenging for standard 4-wheel drives. Enlisting the expertise of a local guide and a modified vehicle is advisable, even in summertime when the rivers subside. Once you arrive, you’ll wander through lush birch forests, cross glacial rivers, and explore moss-covered gorges. This otherworldly sanctuary merges Iceland’s verdant beauty with rugged terrain, as travel expert Anna Maria Pizzinini describes.
“A place that holds a special place in my heart is Þórsmörk. The tranquility and otherworldly colors, the diversity and the adventurous journey to reach it—crossing rivers or hiking past glaciers and remote mountain huts—are unparalleled.”
A hike in Kerlingarfjöll is even more remote, showcasing cinematic vistas of snow-capped peaks and bubbling geothermal areas. Few trails offer the opportunity to explore such vividly colored rhyolite hills or stroll beside rivers of crystal blue.
Top of the world in the Southern Highlands
The remarkable walk at Kerlingarfjöll
Hiking a waterfall at Þakgil
At day’s end, unwind at the Highland Base Hotel, where luxurious accommodations blend seamlessly with the surrounding wonders, offering cozy geothermal baths to soothe your muscles—one of our favorite partners for many trips.
While exploring the south, be sure not to miss Þakgil, a renowned trail that takes you through a picturesque off-the-beaten-path area. Green valleys give way to jagged black volcanic mountains, crafting a striking contrast that captivates hikers at every turn.
Þakgil is a rare gem, conveniently nestled near the Mýrdalsjökull glacier and the black sand beaches of Vík. It embodies that rare destination that feels hidden yet remains surprisingly accessible. Light on tourists yet rich in dramatic scenery, it’s an ideal trail for those wanting to hike in Iceland’s breathtaking landscapes away from the crowds.
Þakgil represents what we cherish at Hidden Iceland: a spot where you can witness some of the most breathtaking and isolated natural wonders on Earth.
For an unparalleled hiking experience in Iceland—one that pairs stunning sights with luxurious accommodations—Hidden Iceland can design an itinerary tailored to your every need. Contact us today to begin your luxury hiking adventure.
