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Hiking Iceland’s Volcanic Trails

Itinerary
Volcanic Trails Hike
Date and group size

Add-ons

Equipment rental

Sleeping bag and hiking pole rental is available at an additional fee. Price is per person and for the whole trip.

Special diet requirements

Special diets such as vegetarian, pescatarian, vegan or others can be accommodated at an extra cost. Price is per person and for the whole trip. Gluten-free diets cannot be accommodated, so bring your own items if needed.

Select a cancellation policy

Things come up, and sometimes plans need to be changed. Check out our flexible cancellation options.
57hours flexibility options
Deposits

When booking a trip, you can either pay for it in full or reserve your spot with a 30% deposit. The remaining 70% of the trip price is to be paid 90 days prior to departure, at the latest.

Cancellations

After 48 hours, booking fees are non-refundable in all cases. You can choose one of 57hours’ flexibility options:

Basic
  • 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-hour grace period.
Flexible
  • If canceled within 48 hours of booking, a full refund will be issued.
  • If canceled 60 or more days before departure, a full refund of the total trip price will be issued.
  • If canceled 30-59 days before departure, a 50% refund of the total trip price will be issued.
  • If canceled within 29 days of departure, no refund will be issued.
  • Booking fees are non-refundable after 48 hours grace period.
Super Flexible
  • If canceled within 48 hours of booking, a full refund will be issued.
  • If canceled 30 or more days before departure, a full refund of the total trip price will be issued.
  • If canceled within 29 days of departure, a 50% refund of the total trip price will be issued.
  • Booking fees are non-refundable after 48 hours grace period.

Adventure travel insurance available

Adventure travel insurance available after checkout through our trusted partner, Redpoint.
Full insurance benefits

Full protection benefits

Benefits maximum benefit per person
Trip Cancellation* Up to 100% of the insured trip cost
Cancellation For Any Reason (CFAR)** Up to 75% of Trip Cost – Optional for additional cost
Trip Interruption*,*** 150% of the Trip Cost limit
Trip Delay up to $200/day, $1,000 max
Itinerary Change $250 per person
Single Occupancy Supplement up to 100% of Trip Cost
Missed Connection $1000
Travel Inconvenience 250 per each inconvenience up to a maximum of $750
Pet Return $1000 per pet
Baggage & Personal Effects $2,500, subject to per item maximum of $300
Medical Evacuation & Repatriation of Remains included up to $1,000,000
Baggage Delay 12 hrs min delay, $600 max
Baggage Delivery $100 per trip
Emergency Accident and Emergency Sickness Medical Expense $100,000 per person
Dental Expense $750 per person
Accidental Death & Dismemberment $25,000
*Up to the lesser of the Trip Cost paid or the limit of coverage on Your confirmation of coverage
**You must insure the total cost of all prepaid non-refundable Travel Arrangements that are subject to Cancellation Penalties
***$1000 Return air ticket cost only if $0 Trip Cost displayed for Trip Cancellation
Hiking Iceland’s Volcanic Trails
Itinerary
Volcanic Trails Hike
People
1 Person
Date(s)
--
Duration
5 day
Guide(s)
Emma, Elísabet, Ívar
Reserve deposit (50%) $0
Second Payment Amount: $0

  • This is a 5-day tour overflowing with Iceland's most spectacular volcanic wonders—wonders that will have you questioning if you're still on Earth. Accompanied by an expert, local guide, you'll have the chance to hike to the majestic Sveinstindur mountain, bathe in Iceland's famous hot pools, and explore lava forests and valleys along the way. Days are spent exploring these natural marvels, while nights are spent recharging and resting at authentic mountain huts. Transportation during the tour and all meals are included!

    • The group meets at 07:30 AM at the BSI Central Bus Terminal, where your guide will warmly welcome you. Our journey begins as we travel along highland tracks, passing the mighty Hekla volcano and the scenic Fjallabak Nature Reserve. We drive through the colorful Landmannalaugar region toward the striking Mt. Sveinstindur, nestled beside the stunning lake Langisjór—one of Iceland’s true natural gems. As we ascend the peak, we’re rewarded with sweeping views across rugged mountain landscapes, stretching all the way to the vast Vatnajökull glacier. After the climb, we descend to a traditional hut on the far side, where we settle into a rustic and truly back-to-nature experience.

      Hiking: 6 km (4 miles)
      Ascent/descent: +605 m (+1,985 ft), -520 m (-1,706 ft)
      Accommodation: Mountain hut
      Meals: Lunch and dinner

    • Following the course of the Skaftá River, the trail winds past thrilling rapids and scenic waterfalls, eventually leading to the striking yet modest Hvanngil Canyon. The landscape here is distinctly volcanic, marked by dramatic contrasts of obsidian lava, vivid green moss, and unique rock formations. As evening falls, we arrive in the enchanting Skælingar area—an ancient lava forest near the Skaftá riverbed. Here, a rustic hut and simple outhouse facilities offer a chance to embrace the raw beauty of nature and fully immerse yourself in the wilderness experience.

      Hiking: 18 km (11 miles), 6-8 hours
      Ascent/descent: +350 m (+1,152 ft), -525 m (-1,722 ft)
      Accommodation: Mountain hut
      Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner

      Hikers traveling along a riverside on Iceland

    • After wrapping up our morning preparations, we set out on the day’s hike to explore the awe-inspiring Eldgjá—Canyon of Fire. Our route begins with a gentle descent into the canyon, giving us plenty of time to take in its stunning beauty and remarkable features. From there, we continue toward the serene lakes of Álftavötn, hiking through lush green hills alongside the winding Syðri Ófæra River. Upon reaching Álftavötn, a peaceful haven of natural beauty, we settle into a cozy traditional hut for the night. Surrounded by quiet and wonder, it’s the perfect place to rest and recharge.

      Hiking: 21 km (13 miles), 7-9 hours
      Ascent/descent: 350 m (1,152 ft)
      Accommodation: Mountain hut
      Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner

    • Today, our journey continues alongside the enchanting Syðri Ófæra River, once again passing through the majestic Eldgjá—Canyon of Fire. The landscape shifts from lush green meadows to dark volcanic sands streaked with vivid green moss. As we move forward, we reach the serene Strútslaug natural pool—a peaceful oasis after a gentle crossing of the Hólmsá River. Following a relaxing soak in the warm waters, we enjoy a leisurely walk to the welcoming Strútur Hut, our home for the night. This cozy refuge offers modern comforts, including warm lodging, proper WC facilities, and refreshing showers—perfect for unwinding after a day on the trail.

      Hiking: 24 km (15 miles), 8 hours
      Ascent/descent: 300 m (984 ft)
      Accommodation: Mountain hut
      Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner

      Hikers relaxing in one of Iceland’s natural pools

    • In the morning, we take in the peaceful surroundings—whether by enjoying a well-earned rest or setting out on a short hike near the hut. After our final lunch together, a private 4×4 vehicle takes us across the dramatic Mælifellssandur, a sweeping plain of black volcanic sand, as we begin our journey back to civilization and Reykjavík. We expect to arrive in the city around 7pm.

      Meals: Breakfast and lunch

      Maelifellssandur Iceland

    • Included:

        • An experienced, local, English-speaking hiking guide with extensive knowledge of the area
        • 5-day hiking tour along volcanic trails of Iceland
        • Accommodation in mountain huts for 4 nights (shared dormitories)
        • Private transport from Reykjavik BSI to Sveinstindur and from Strutur to Reykjavik
        • All meals (from lunch on Day 1 to lunch on Day 5)
        • Luggage transfers between huts

      Add-ons (available to add upon checkout, must be added before the tour):

        • Sleeping bag
        • Hiking poles
        • Special dietary requirements

      Not included:

        • Transportation to Reykjavík
        • Sleeping bag
        • Accommodation before and after the tour — your guides can help arrange it
        • Usage of the showers in the huts (can be arranged for an additional fee)
        • Guide gratuities — optional
        • Travel and medical insurance

    • This tour is demanding and requires good endurance. It’s ideal for hikers that are physically active and have some background in basic traveling in mountainous terrain. You will be hiking up to 9 hours & 21 km (13 mi) per day, gaining up to 605 m (1,985 ft).

      Day-by-day distance breakdown is detailed in the itinerary, but overall you’ll traverse a total amount of 70 km (44 miles) in 5 days. Keep in mind that you’ll be packing a daypack filled with water and other things you’ll need throughout the day.

    • Clothing

        • Sturdy hiking boots — waterproof with good ankle support
        • Long sleeve shirt (thermal underwear) — wool or synthetic
        • T-shirt (thermal underwear) — wool or synthetic.
        • Light wool or fleece sweater (second layer)
        • Trousers — strong and light material that dries quickly e.g. soft-shell
        • Jacket with a good hood — windproof, waterproof and breathable
        • Rain trousers — windproof, waterproof and breathable. Please note that full raingear is mandatory in Iceland
        • Gloves
        • Socks — Wool or synthetic (two or three pairs)
        • Warm hat

      Other gear

        • A duffel bag for the transport of your overnight gear between huts (please avoid bringing a suitcase!)
        • Backpack for extra clothes and food during the day (25 – 40L)
        • River shoes – walking sandals or old running shoes with a good grip are a good choice, along with a pair of warm socks or neoprene socks (open sandals or flip-flops will not do the job
        • Light sleeping bag — possible to rent with your guides
        • Towel — lightweight and packable
        • Sunglasses & sun protection
        • Water container — thermos flask or water bottle 0,5 – 1L
        • Headlamp for reading and getting around the hut
        • Casual clothes / change of clothes for wearing in the hut
        • Personal first aid kit (including blister care)
        • Prescription medication and other personal health items
        • Toiletries, toothbrush, toothpaste etc.
        • Power bank for your devices

      Optional gear

        • Walking poles — available to rent with your guides
        • Gaiters
        • Neoprene socks — highly recommended for river crossings
        • Pen knife
        • Earplugs
        • Sun/rain hat or a cap; shorts
        • Thermal mat (for lunch breaks)
        • Puffy jacket (e.g. Primaloft or down)
        • Camera, spare batteries
        • Dry-bags for electronics and extra clothing
        • Slippers for indoor use
        • Aperitif or other heart-warming spirits

      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 prices:

        • For this adventure, the usual client-to-guide ratio is 16:1.
        • It takes a minimum of 6 people for a tour to operate. The maximum group size is set at 14 people.

      Hiking in Iceland’s Volcanic Trails can be arranged for larger groups. Contact us to make arrangements.

      Min. age requirements:

        • If you are older than 16, you’re good to go.
        • Minors as young as 14 may be permitted to join the hike on a case-by-case basis, but must be in the presence of a parent or legal guardian.

      If your group has hikers under the age of 16, contact us prior to booking to make arrangements.

    • To get to the starting point of this tour in Reykjavík, most people fly into Keflavík International Airport (KEF). From there, you can take a bus, shuttle, or taxi to Reykjavík.

      You’ll meet your guide at the BSI central bus terminal in Reykjavík at 7:30 am on Day 1 of the tour. Due to a very early start, please arrive in Reykjavik at least a day prior to the first day of the adventure.

    • Iceland, the “Land of Fire and Ice”, has forever lived with volcanic activity. Minor and major eruptions have occurred every few years since the island was formed. Some of Iceland’s appeal, aside from sheer natural beauty, surely stems from this very fact.

      However, every new eruption, such as the recent Reykjanes Peninsula fissure, will make some travelers, tourists, and adventurers uneasy, especially given the fact that sensationalist media is not immune to misinformation and speculation.

      Since we work with a number of expert local guides in Iceland, we thought we’d share their input and fill you in on what’s actually going on.

      First of all, air traffic has not been affected. Flights to and from Keflavík International Airport and Reykjavík Domestic Airport are operating as they always do.

      Second, the effects of volcanic activity have been localized, with some roads closed, and all services in Iceland operating as usual. Reykjavik, the capital, is around 40 km (25 miles) away from the volcanic fissure, and life there is as normal as ever. 

      And third, trips offered by 57hours are taking place much further away, and are thereby even less likely to be affected by the volcanic activity, being perfectly safe for adventurers. Naturally, the authorities (and guides) are monitoring the situation and doing everything possible to keep both local residents and visitors safe and well informed.

      In case you have any additional questions or dilemmas, feel free to get in touch with either your guide or 57hours. For more information, please visit: 

      https://safetravel.is/
      https://www.visiticeland.com/article/volcano-info

      Or watch the video with Dr. Matthew Roberts from the Icelandic Meteorological Office explaining the recent volcanic activities in Iceland:
      https://youtu.be/QA3-BXYuYrw?feature=shared

    • We highly recommend that you cover all your bases with both medical and travel protection. To make your booking and traveling experience as carefree as possible, simply choose Redpoint—the official 57hours insurance partner!

      Redpoint tailors their 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.

      Once your booking is confirmed and your trip is paid in full, you will be offered to purchase Redpoint’s protection. If you need any help or require more information, let us know and we will be happy to help!

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