THE ICELAND ULTIMATE
Hiking adventure

Your adventure begins as you arrive in Iceland, where you’ll be transferred via bus from Reykjavik Airport (Keflavik) to your accommodation. It’s well connected to many airports around Europe, making your journey smooth and hassle-free. 

To make the most of your trip, we recommend arriving in the morning or afternoon, giving you time to settle in and also a great opportunity to meet your fellow adventurers. If you’re arriving a day early, we can suggest excellent accommodation options to ensure a relaxed start to your journey. 

For the duration of the trip, you’ll be based in Reykjavik, giving you a chance to explore the capital between hikes. This means you won’t have to carry all your belongings from place to place, and after each day of hiking, you’ll return to the comfort of a warm shower and a cosy bed. Get ready for an unforgettable week exploring one of Europe’s most spectacular mountain landscapes.

📏 12 km ⏱️ 5–6 h ⬆️ ~600 m 💪 ●●●○○ — Moderate

This extended loop begins from Hvalfjörður and follows the Botnsá River through birch woodland before crossing the narrow log bridge and passing through the small cave that marks the start of the climb. The trail rises steadily along the canyon edge with dramatic views down to the river below.

Reaching Glymur, Iceland’s second-highest waterfall at 198 metres, the path continues beyond the main viewpoint, climbing higher onto open ground above the gorge. From here wide panoramas stretch across Hvalfjörður, with the waterfall framed against steep cliffs and the valley floor far below.

The return loop descends along the opposite side of the canyon, offering new perspectives of the gorge and falls before rejoining the valley path back to the trailhead. With varied terrain, airy views, and the unforgettable sight of Glymur, this route makes for one of the most rewarding day hikes near Reykjavík.

📏 12 km ⏱️ 5–6 h ⬆️ ~700 m 💪 ●●●○○ — Moderate

Hengill is an active volcanic system east of Reykjavík, known for its geothermal valleys, hot springs, and colourful mountain landscapes. Starting from Nesjavellir or Hveragerði, the trail climbs through lava fields and grassy slopes, with steam rising from vents and fumaroles along the way.

The route explores a wild upland plateau of ridges and craters, with wide views over Þingvallavatn to the north and the Reykjanes Peninsula to the west. Streams of warm water and bubbling mud pools add to the surreal atmosphere, making this one of Iceland’s most geologically vibrant hiking areas.

The loop descends through Reykjadalur or a neighbouring valley, where hot streams cut through green slopes and natural bathing spots invite a rest. Combining volcanic scenery, geothermal activity, and mountain views, Hengill offers a unique day hike within easy reach of Reykjavík.

📏 12 km ⏱️ 4–5 h ⬆️ ~500 m 💪 ●●●○○ — Moderate

This extended circuit through Reykjadalur begins in Hveragerði, following the classic path into Steam Valley past bubbling mud pools and steaming vents. The first section climbs steadily to the hot river, where natural pools provide the perfect place to pause for a soak.

Beyond the bathing area, the trail continues deeper into the high valley, where colourful geothermal features mix with grassy ridges and wide views toward Hengill Volcano. The path loops across open uplands before descending gradually back toward Hveragerði by a different track, completing the circuit.

With its combination of geothermal bathing, volcanic scenery, and broad Icelandic landscapes, this longer route transforms the popular hot spring walk into a full-day adventure.

After several days of hiking through Iceland’s wild landscapes, today is a chance to slow down, explore the village at your own pace, or take a day trip to one of the country’s other stunning destinations.

There are hundreds more hikes you can go for alone if you still have the energy or maybe you would like to spend the day in Reykjavik to experience a bit of city life, museums and quirky cafes. We have lots of ideas for you if you need some inspiration.

📏 12 km ⏱️ 5–6 h ⬆️ ~850 m 💪 ●●●○○ — Moderate

This extended loop explores more of the rhyolite peaks and volcanic ridges surrounding Móskarðshnúkar. From the trailhead above Mosfellsbær, the path climbs steadily over pale rhyolite slopes to the main summit, with sweeping views over Reykjavík, Faxaflói Bay, and the Esja massif.

Instead of descending immediately, the trail continues across neighbouring tops and ridgelines, with colourful volcanic rock and contrasting dark lava fields creating a dramatic backdrop. The route offers constant views toward Hengill, Þingvallavatn, and on clear days even Snæfellsjökull on the distant peninsula.

The descent loops back via open uplands and re-joins the approach trail near the base, completing a varied and panoramic circuit. With its extended ridgeline walking and striking geology, this loop is one of the best full-day hikes close to Reykjavík.

📏 18 km ⏱️ 7–8 h ⬆️ ~1,000 m 💪 ●●●●○ — Challenging

This route begins at the base of Skógafoss, where a staircase climbs beside the 60-metre waterfall to a viewpoint above. From here the path follows the Skógá River into the highlands, passing a chain of waterfalls and deep gorges that grow wilder as the trail gains height.

The climb continues across open volcanic slopes to reach Fimmvörðuháls, the mountain pass that lies between the Eyjafjallajökull and Mýrdalsjökull glaciers. At the top, recent craters and lava fields from the 2010 eruption provide a stark reminder of the region’s volcanic power.

The return retraces the same route back to Skógafoss, offering fresh views of the cascades and valleys on the descent. This out-and-back hike captures the best of the waterfalls and volcanic highlands in a single, demanding day.

After an incredible week exploring the wild beauty of Iceland, it’s time to pack your bags and begin your journey onwards. Transport will be arranged to take you back to Reykjavik Airport (Keflavik). 

If you’re extending your stay, there are plenty of incredible places to explore beyond the mountains. We’d be happy to share recommendations to help you make the most of your time.

As you leave Iceland behind, you’ll take with you memories of volcanoes, geysers and unforgettable adventures in one of Europe’s most breathtaking landscapes. Until next time!