Included: An experienced hiking guide with extensive knowledge of the area 7-day Iceland highlands hiking tour Accommodation for 6 nights in mountain huts (shared dormitory-style rooms) All meals — breakfasts, lunches, and dinners (from dinner on Day 1 through lunch on Day 7) Luggage transfers between huts Transportation from Reykjavik to the highlands and vice versa Notebooks for journaling and poetry collection Not included: Flights Sleeping bags Showers — can be paid on site Anything not mentioned in the “Included” section above Insurance — recommended, available to add at checkout Guide gratuities — optional

How fit do I need to be?

In order to join this Highlands hiking tour, great fitness is required, along with some hiking experience . The most you’ll hike in a day is up to 21 km (13 mi), with up to 775 m (2,543 ft) of elevation gain . Over the week, you’ll cover a total of 82–97 km (51–60 mi) , depending on which optional hikes you choose. Terrain includes multiple river crossings and long stretches of uneven, rocky ground, so it helps to be comfortable moving steadily for six to eight hours at a stretch. Because luggage is transferred hut-to-hut, you’ll only carry a daypack on trail, but we still recommend training with day hikes and an 8-10 kg (18-22 lb) pack before you go. Want to see what else is there in the area? Discover more Iceland hiking tours here!

What do I need to bring?

Clothing: Layered clothing system: moisture-wicking base layer, insulating mid-layer, and waterproof outer layer Sturdy, waterproof hiking boots Hat and gloves Buff or neck gaiter High-quality, moisture-wicking socks River crossing shoes (lightweight sneakers or sandals) Personal items & gear: Daypack (20–40L) Extra bag for luggage you won’t carry on the hike (preferably waterproof) Trekking poles (recommended for river crossings, can be shared if needed) Sleeping bag Water bottle or hydration pack Headlamp or torch Food & extras: Snacks (meals are provided, but bring your favorites) Toiletries & essentials: Sunglasses and sunscreen Toiletries (toothbrush, toothpaste, soap) Towel Earplugs Dry change of clothes Optional: Camera Your own notebook and pen (we provide them, but feel free to bring your own) and coloring pencils if you prefer to draw Dress comfortably and for the weather in clothes you can move in. We suggest bringing clothing appropriate for the season. Layers are best and don’t wear jeans.

Group sizes and age requirements

Group sizes and pricing For this Iceland highlands hiking tour , the usual client-to-guide ratio is 8 :1. It takes a minimum of 8 people for this tour to operate. The maximum group size is set at 14 participants . An Iceland highlands hiking tour can be arranged for larger groups. Contact us to make arrangements. Min. age requirements If you are older than 18, you’re good to go. If your group has participants under the age of 18 , contact us prior to booking to make arrangements.

Is a single occupancy room available?

A single occupancy room is not available on this Iceland highlands hiking tour because you’ll be sleeping in shared dormitories and there are no single occupancy rooms in mountain huts.

Getting there and meeting location

The starting point of your Iceland highlands hiking tour is Reykjavik . To get there, most people fly into Keflavik Airport (KEF) . From there, you can take a shuttle service, public transport, or rent a car to reach Reykjavik. You will meet your guide at 6:30 am at the BSI bus terminal Reykjavik on Day 1, so it’s recommended that you arrive in Reykjavik a day before because the tour starts quite early on Day 1.

Safety measures and insurance

We highly recommend that you cover all your bases with insurance. To make your booking and traveling experience as carefree as possible, you’ll be offered to simply insure your trip with Redpoint at checkout. Redpoint—the official 57hours insurance partner—tailors protection packages for adventure travel, offering a comprehensive travel program, even in remote locations! Trip cancellation, natural disasters, pandemic coverage, medical evacuation, primary medical expenses—regardless of the travel interruption that may happen, Redpoint will have you covered.

2026 is sold out — book 2027, or find a last minute deal.

ICELANDIC HIGHLANDS | ICELAND

Iceland Hiking Tour: 7 Mindful Days Through the Highlands

Name: Iceland Highlands Hiking Tour: 7 Days in the Wild
Brand: 57hours
Availability: InStock

7 days | Challenging

From $3,778 ()

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Few places in Iceland reward a full week the way the southern Highlands do. We follow a longer, quieter version of the routes near the increasingly crowded Laugavegur trail, through rhyolite peaks, glacial rivers, and geothermal pools that thin out the further you walk. The pace is deliberate rather than rushed: real distance each day, but also room for quiet hiking, journaling, and time to actually process where you are. It’s still demanding, the terrain doesn’t ease up over a week, but what you get back is one of the country’s most beautiful, least-crowded corners of the Highlands.

Elsebeth

Adventure Highlights

Across Iceland’s wild interior: Hike through the highlands on a continuous route, far from roads and busy trails
Landmannalaugar to Eldgjá: Discover colorful rhyolite mountains and vast volcanic canyons, with hot springs along the trail
More than just hiking: Enjoy mindful hiking, outdoor journaling, and group sharing that deepen the whole experience

Duration

7 days

Season

July through September

Group size

Up to 14 people

The adventure, day by day

Download itineraries

This 7-day hut-to-hut trek takes us deep into the southern Icelandic Highlands, from the rainbow-colored mountains of Landmannalaugar to the quiet, little-used trails around Sveinstindur and Strútur. Rather than following the increasingly crowded Laugavegur route, we take a longer, quieter path through the same volcanic terrain: rhyolite peaks, geothermal pools, glacial rivers, and vast highland deserts most visitors never see. Days are challenging, with hikes of up to 21 km, but they're built with real progression and rest days between the harder stretches. Alongside the hiking, we build in time for quiet walking, outdoor journaling, and small-group sharing. We sleep in mountain huts along the way, with all meals and hut-to-hut luggage transfers included, so you're only carrying a daypack.

Day 1: Reykjavik to Sveinstindur

We meet early in the morning at the BSÍ bus terminal in Reykjavík and travel by highland bus across the plains of South Iceland and into the Highlands, beneath some of the country’s most powerful volcanoes. Before noon we arrive in Landmannalaugar, where we spend the afternoon trekking through its vibrant, colorful terrain and soaking in the thermal hot springs. There are plenty of shorter trails to choose from here, whether that means crossing the Laugahraun lava field or summiting Brennisteinsalda or Bláhnúkur. Late in the afternoon, our bus continues deeper into the Highlands to the Sveinstindur mountain hut, where we settle in for dinner and rest.

Meals: Dinner
Hiking distance: 5-10 km (3-6 mi)
Elevation: Varies by trails chosen
Accommodation: Mountain hut

Day 2: Sveinstindur to Skælingur

Today we enter Vatnajökull National Park, the largest wilderness area in Western Europe. We follow the Skaftá River through a landscape shaped by major volcanic eruptions, including the one that formed Eldgjá, a 75 km-long fissure and one of the largest of its kind in the world. The day involves several river and canyon crossings as we make our way toward Skælingur and our mountain hut, tucked among the lava fields of Stóragil. It’s our first full day of quiet hiking, with stretches of silence built in to help us settle into the landscape around us.

Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Hiking distance: 18 km (11 mi)
Elevation: +600 m to +700 m (+1,970 to +2,297 ft)
Accommodation: Mountain hut

Day 3: Skælingur to Hólaskjól

We continue from Skælingur along the southeastern rim of Eldgjá, taking in views of the Ófærufoss waterfall from one of its best vantage points before descending into the canyon for a second look from below. From there we continue through the gorge, passing the striking rock formations of Kvíslarhólmar and Lambaskarðshólar. It’s another day of quiet walking, immersed in geology shaped by some of Iceland’s biggest volcanic events. We spend the night at the Hólaskjól hut, where dinner is waiting for us.

Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Hiking distance: 18 km (11 mi)
Elevation: +600 m (+1,970 ft)
Accommodation: Mountain hut

Day 4: Hólaskjól to Álftavötn

Today’s hike is shorter and slower, following the waterfall Huldufoss and the river Syðri Ófæra to Álftavötn lake. We build in plenty of time for sit-spot practice, quiet breaks, and simply being in the landscape rather than moving through it. Álftavötn sits within a canyon that gives our group real space to settle into the trip’s practices and into each other’s company.

Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Hiking distance: 7 km (4.3 mi)
Elevation: +119 m (+390 ft)
Accommodation: Mountain hut

Day 5: Álftavötn to Strútskali

This is our longest day of hiking, crossing the highlands on little-used trails through ever-changing landscapes of rhyolite mountains, hot springs, and green valleys. The terrain is hilly in places but mostly moves through broad valleys, with several river crossings along the way using trekking poles and wading shoes; these crossings have become something of a mindfulness practice in their own right. We stop to recharge at the remote geothermal pool of Strútslaug before arriving at the cozy Strútskali mountain hut, with clear views of the highland peaks Strútur and Mælifell.

Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Hiking distance: 21 km (13 mi)
Elevation: +775 m (+2,543 ft)
Accommodation: Mountain hut

Day 6: Deeper exploration around Strútur

Today unfolds at a gentler pace. We start the morning with some time alone in nature before choosing how to spend the rest of the day, together or on our own. Those who want to explore further have several rewarding options nearby, including summiting Strútur for sweeping highland views. Others may prefer to stay close to the hut to rest, write, or wander nearby with nowhere in particular to be. In the evening we gather for a festive dinner with local foods, marking our final evening together in the Highlands.

Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Hiking distance: Up to 13 km (8 mi), optional
Elevation: +425 m (+1,394 ft), optional
Accommodation: Mountain hut

Day 7: Strútur to Reykjavík via Hvanngil

Our final day takes us across the glacial sand deserts and wetlands shaped by Mýrdalsjökull, crossing part of the vast, desolate Mælifellssandur plain. Toward the end of the hike we have the option to split into two groups: one taking a route over a mountain peak, the other continuing across the plains. We arrive at the Hvanngil hut on the Laugavegur trail, where our bus meets us for the drive back to Reykjavík, arriving in the evening for a gradual return to everyday life after a week in the Highlands.

Meals: Breakfast, lunch
Hiking distance: 13 km (8 mi)
Elevation: +169 m (+554 ft)

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Lodging & food

Mountain huts

We stay in simple mountain huts located deep in Iceland’s highlands, far from roads and towns. Accommodation is in shared dormitory-style rooms, offering a practical place to rest after each day on the trail. Facilities are basic, in line with the remote setting, but everything needed for the journey is in place.

Food

Meals are nutritious and designed to support long days on the trail, with an emphasis on fresh, local ingredients whenever possible.

The menu is primarily vegetarian and vegan, with one exception on the final evening, when an Icelandic lamb dish may be served.

Adventure, packed to go

Iceland Hiking Tour: 7 Mindful Days Through the Highlands

Adventure Brochure

Adventure brochure

Download to share and explore full itineraries, key info, FAQs, and guide details.

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Meet your guides

Seasoned pros, local legends, and passionate adventurers—your trip is in the best hands.

5.00

Elsebeth

Elsebeth grew up in Greenland with the mountains as her playground. After an academic career in teaching and learning theory, she shifted her focus to sharing her passion for nature with others. Through her work, she explores how nature fosters deeper learning and inner connectedness and currently guides in the Highlands of South Iceland and in Sweden.

5.00

Fabien

Fabien is a dietitian, health coach, and life coach who specializes in helping people improve both their physical and mental wellbeing. During the hike, he supports participants in turning the physical challenges of the journey into meaningful insights they can apply in their everyday lives. Fabien also designs vibrant vegan and vegetarian meals that fuel long hiking days, supporting endurance, recovery, and mental clarity throughout the adventure.

Things to know

Included:
- - An experienced hiking guide with extensive knowledge of the area
  - 7-day Iceland highlands hiking tour
  - Accommodation for 6 nights in mountain huts (shared dormitory-style rooms)
  - All meals — breakfasts, lunches, and dinners (from dinner on Day 1 through lunch on Day 7)
  - Luggage transfers between huts
  - Transportation from Reykjavik to the highlands and vice versa
  - Notebooks for journaling and poetry collection
Not included:
- - Flights
  - Sleeping bags
  - Showers — can be paid on site
  - Anything not mentioned in the “Included” section above
  - Insurance — recommended, available to add at checkout
  - Guide gratuities — optional
In order to join this Highlands hiking tour, great fitness is required, along with some hiking experience. The most you’ll hike in a day is up to 21 km (13 mi), with up to 775 m (2,543 ft) of elevation gain.

Over the week, you’ll cover a total of 82–97 km (51–60 mi), depending on which optional hikes you choose.

Terrain includes multiple river crossings and long stretches of uneven, rocky ground, so it helps to be comfortable moving steadily for six to eight hours at a stretch. Because luggage is transferred hut-to-hut, you’ll only carry a daypack on trail, but we still recommend training with day hikes and an 8-10 kg (18-22 lb) pack before you go.

Want to see what else is there in the area? Discover more Iceland hiking tours here!
Clothing:
- - Layered clothing system: moisture-wicking base layer, insulating mid-layer, and waterproof outer layer
  - Sturdy, waterproof hiking boots
  - Hat and gloves
  - Buff or neck gaiter
  - High-quality, moisture-wicking socks
  - River crossing shoes (lightweight sneakers or sandals)
Personal items & gear:
- - Daypack (20–40L)
  - Extra bag for luggage you won’t carry on the hike (preferably waterproof)
  - Trekking poles (recommended for river crossings, can be shared if needed)
  - Sleeping bag
  - Water bottle or hydration pack
  - Headlamp or torch
Food & extras:
- - Snacks (meals are provided, but bring your favorites)
Toiletries & essentials:
- - Sunglasses and sunscreen
  - Toiletries (toothbrush, toothpaste, soap)
  - Towel
  - Earplugs
  - Dry change of clothes
Optional:
- - Camera
  - Your own notebook and pen (we provide them, but feel free to bring your own) and coloring pencils if you prefer to draw
Dress comfortably and for the weather in clothes you can move in. We suggest bringing clothing appropriate for the season. Layers are best and don’t wear jeans.

Got everything you need? Grab your gear through Active Junky and earn cash back on top outdoor brands — plus a $10 bonus on your first $25+ purchase. Shop now at Active Junky!
Group sizes and pricing
- - For this Iceland highlands hiking tour, the usual client-to-guide ratio is 8:1.
  - It takes a minimum of 8 people for this tour to operate. The maximum group size is set at 14 participants.
An Iceland highlands hiking tour can be arranged for larger groups. Contact us to make arrangements.

Min. age requirements
- - If you are older than 18, you’re good to go.
If your group has participants under the age of 18, contact us prior to booking to make arrangements.
A single occupancy room is not available on this Iceland highlands hiking tour because you’ll be sleeping in shared dormitories and there are no single occupancy rooms in mountain huts.
The starting point of your Iceland highlands hiking tour is Reykjavik. To get there, most people fly into Keflavik Airport (KEF). From there, you can take a shuttle service, public transport, or rent a car to reach Reykjavik.

You will meet your guide at 6:30 am at the BSI bus terminal Reykjavik on Day 1, so it’s recommended that you arrive in Reykjavik a day before because the tour starts quite early on Day 1.
We highly recommend that you cover all your bases with insurance. To make your booking and traveling experience as carefree as possible, you’ll be offered to simply insure your trip with Redpoint at checkout.

Redpoint—the official 57hours insurance partner—tailors protection packages for adventure travel, offering a comprehensive travel program, even in remote locations! Trip cancellation, natural disasters, pandemic coverage, medical evacuation, primary medical expenses—regardless of the travel interruption that may happen, Redpoint will have you covered.
Secure your spot with a 30% deposit upon booking! The remaining 70% of the trip price must be paid 90 days prior to departure at the latest. If booking within 90 days of departure, the full amount is required at the time of booking.
- If canceled within 48 hours of booking, a full refund will be issued.
- If canceled 60 or more days before departure, a 70% refund of the total trip price will be issued.
- If canceled within 59 days of departure, no refund will be issued.
- Booking fees are non-refundable after a 48 hours grace period.

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