The Wilderness Center

The Wilderness Center is East Iceland’s premier accommodation for those eager to penetrate the Icelandic Highlands, far from other tourists. Those seeking Iceland’s nature at its most raw and primordial, as well as the chance to embark on a range of adventures, should book their escape without hesitation.

Location & Nearby

Nestled at the end of an otherwise unused and far-flung road in east Iceland, the Wilderness Center is miles away from civilization. The magnificent Mount Snaefell, Iceland’s tallest freestanding mountain, the peaks of Vatnajokull glacier, and the wilds of the Highlands dominate the scenery, immersing you into the landscapes of the Land of Ice and Fire.

Egilsstadir, the largest town of the region and nearest settlement with diverse amenities, is nearly an hour away by car - so, even though the center has plentiful food, you may want to stock up on your favorite comforts before arrival!

Despite being remote and having a wealth of things to do to fill your days with, it is easy to take days out from the Wilderness Center to marvel over some of East Iceland’s other gems. Lagarfljot, a lake steeped in folklore; Hallormstadaskogar, the country’s largest forest; and Haifoss, a magnificent waterfall, can be driven to in 20 minutes, 30 minutes, and just over an hour respectively.

It is also possible to include a day or more at the Wilderness Center as part of a navigation of the awe-inspiring Eastfjords.

Facilities & Amenities

The Wilderness Center offers a range of different accommodation options, making it a great choice for both those looking for a cheap dorm bed or a private suite.

The dorms are mixed, but all are provided with a spacious, comfortable double bed; those who are happy with this kind of accommodation but are eager for a little more privacy can book a bed in the alcove. This space is beautifully furnished with wood-paneled features, adding to the feeling of an escape at a rustic log cabin.

There are also twin rooms in the Basecamp and the Old Farmhouse for those who would rather not sleep in the company of strangers. These are still affordable, considering that, like the dorms, they share regularly maintained bathrooms and showers.

The most luxurious accommodation is the double room in the Landowners Suite, which has private facilities and more opulent, rather than rustic, decor.

All guests are welcome to bask in the geothermal hot spring spa on-site; there is a beautiful outdoor hot tub that looks over the magnificent surroundings and a relaxing sauna. Furthermore, guests will find a fantastic breakfast buffet and lunch and dinner menu, locally sourced and chef-prepared, that they can purchase from each day. Children under five eat for free, and for those between five and eleven, there is a 50% discount.

One of the most appealing things about the Wilderness Center is the unique tours it offers into the nearby Highland landscapes. These include horseback rides, super jeep trips, waterfall hikes, and photo safaris. Furthermore, it is possible to have tailor-made excursions, suited to your group’s needs.

Finally, the Wilderness Center is home to a fantastic museum in summer, exhibiting how Icelanders lived historically in such a remote and inhospitable world.

Why Choose the Wilderness Center?

Adventurers seeking to immerse themselves in the magnificent Highland landscapes of East Iceland will find that the Wilderness Center provides an unforgettable experience. Check availability by choosing a date.