Iceland is like no other country I have ever visited, the landscapes quite literally feel like they have been plucked from another planet. Vast volcanic sand plains, towering moss covered mountains, bubbling geothermal valleys and endless glaciers. The island feels alive with smoking lava fields, tumbling waterfalls and spouting geysers at every turn. It’s no wonder it is repeatedly crowned one of the best hiking destinations in the world!
There is so much to see and do that it can be a little overwhelming, so I have done the hard work for you and narrowed down the thousands of kilometres of well-marked walking trails down to my personal top five of the best day hikes in Iceland.
Practicalities:
Getting there & getting around: Fly into the capital of Reykjavik, there are typically a few flights a day from the UK. I recommend renting a high clearance 4 wheel drive car on arrival, you will need it to get around and tackle the sometimes challenging roads of Iceland.
When To Go: If hiking is your goal, I recommend visiting between the months of mid/late June to late August to ensure as many trails as possible are open and accessible.
How Long to Stay: I recommend a minimum of one week in Iceland to give you the best chance of experiencing the wide variety of landscapes there – and to allow for working around poor weather days.
What To Pack: Even if you’re visiting in the height of summer, I recommend packing your thickest winter layers. I’m talking thermals, down jackets, waterproof trousers, hats, gloves… the works! The weather is absolutely wild and takes no prisoners. Prepare for all eventualities.
Prices: Iceland is notoriously expensive. Accommodation, food and pretty much everything comes with an eye-watering high price point. I recommend budgeting accordingly, and opting for self catering accommodation if you can, to avoid expensive meals out.
The Best Day Hikes in Iceland – My Top 5
The Blahnukur Brennisteinsalda Loop
Exploring the Landmannalaugar region, located in Iceland’s southern Highlands, is like stepping into another planet. It is covered with rhyolite mountains, lava fields and geothermal hot springs. This colourful route shows you the very best scenery in the area and is great for those of you who like to conquer summits, as it climbs both Mt Blahnukur and Mt Brennisteinsalda.
Distance: 11km
Elevation Gain: 810m
Difficulty: Moderate-Challenging
Trail Map: Download Map
The Fimmvorduhals Trail
If you do one hike in Iceland, make it this one. Even National Geographic has named it one of the best trails in the world! It starts off at the 60 metre high Skogafoss waterfall, passing through a valley with 26 more falls you can admire. Then goes between two gigantic glaciers, past a remote mountain hut, across lava fields and finally through a lush green valley. It’s safe to say it’s a long, challenging and very varied route! It genuinely feels like you experience three worlds in one day.
Distance: 24km
Elevation Gain: 1300m
Difficulty: Challenging
Trail Map: Download Map
The Remundargil Ravine Loop
Thakgil is a lesser known region in southern Iceland and well worth a visit. This hiking route through Remindargil ravine (also known as “the purple route” on local maps) takes in steep canyons, moss covered mountains, glacial vistas, towering waterfalls and of course, plenty of rugged volcanic landscapes. If you want to get away from the crowds, then definitely add this hike to your hit list.
Distance: 12.5km
Elevation Gain: 250m
Difficulty: Moderate
Trail Map: Download Map (or just follow the purple signs once you get to Thakgil).
The Kerlingarfjoll Lollipop Loop
Kerlingarfjoll is one of my favourite regions in Iceland. Think orange mountains dotted with crisp snow, boiling mud pools and steaming sulphuric vents. I have never seen anything like it! I recommend hiking to the stunning geothermal area of Hveradalir from the nearby Highland Base, as this allows you to go for a post-hike dip in the hot springs there. The perfect way to end the day, and why it is one of the best day hikes in Iceland!
Distance: 11.7km
Elevation Gain: 591m
Difficulty: Moderate
Trail Map: Download Map
The Tindfjöll Circle Hike
Thorsmork is an area which demands a day hike, and this circular route shows off some of the best scenery in the region. It is a little challenging at times, with narrow paths on canyon edges, but you are rewarded with absolutely mind blowing views of the surrounding mountains, glaciers and valleys. If you have extra energy, you can extend the hike and add in climbing the highest peak in Thorsmork: Rjupnafell.
Distance: 9.3km
Elevation Gain: 408m
Difficulty: Moderate
Trail Map: Download Map
