Small-Group 7-Day Highlands Hiking Tour of the Eldgja and Strutur Trails with Reykjavik Transfers

The second day of your highland hiking adventure takes you along the Skafta river, through the Hvanngil valley, and to the Skaelingar mountain hut. Prepare for meandering trails, incredibly colorful vistas, and an unforgettable day.

Your morning starts at the Sveinstindur hut, where a nourishing breakfast prepares you for the hike. Your group will pack lunches for the day's trek before heading out to discover more of the Highland's awe-inspiring landscapes.

The walk begins along the Skafta river, a watercourse notable for its impactful geological role. Flowing from the Vatnajokull glacier, the river has etched deep canyons into the landscape and is a striking example of nature's power.

The Skafta river has been influential in Iceland's history, not only for its role in settlement and transportation. Dramatic glacial floods, or jokulhlaups, on this river have periodically reshaped the landscape.

As you enter the Hvanngil valley, surrounded by rugged mountains and glaciers, stunning views greet you. It's a photographer's paradise, so it's a good idea to carry an extra camera battery or portable charger to capture the valley's beauty.

On this day, you'll hike for about eight hours, covering 11 miles (approximately 18 kilometers). The terrain is slightly less challenging than the previous day but involves a longer distance.

Reaching the Skaelingar mountain hut, a landscape of mountains, fascinating volcanic formations, and pretty meadows welcome you. Here, you can refresh yourself with a dip in a cold pond.

With its historical significance as a seasonal sheep round-up station for local farmers, the hut adds a touch of Icelandic heritage to your stay.

You'll finish the day warming up in the cabin, enjoying dinner, and resting for the night, surrounded by the strange and exotic beauty of Skaelingar's fantastic lava formations. This unique setting provides a perfect backdrop to reflect on the day's journey.

Day three of your Icelandic Highlands adventure takes you on an exhilarating hike to Gjatindur mountain's summit and a visit to the gorgeous Ofaerufoss waterfall.

Start your day with a communal breakfast at the Skaelingar mountain hut, fueling up for the day's trek. Today's hike spans about eight hours, covering 11 miles (approximately 18 kilometers).

The first destination is Gjatindur mountain, a remarkable peak rising over 3,000 feet (940 meters). As you ascend, the mountain reveals its unique rocky structure and the stark beauty of the surrounding area.

Reaching the summit rewards you with sweeping views of extensive lava fields, glaciers, and distant volcanoes. It's an incredible panoramic insight into Iceland's diverse geological landscape.

From the peak, you'll have a commanding view of the Eldgja fissure, an impressive 43-mile (70-kilometer) long volcanic canyon. It boasts dramatic cliffs and rugged terrain, a visual feast.

Eldgja means "Fire Canyon." It formed during a massive eruption in the 10th century and is a testament to Iceland's volcanic history.

Your walk continues to the striking Ofaerufoss waterfall, which cascades about 130 feet (40 meters) into a gorge lined with basalt columns. Ofaerufoss, or "Impassable Falls," offers a serene backdrop for your lunch break, providing a picturesque setting amidst nature's grandeur.

After lunch, the trail leads to the Holaskjol Highland Center. Here, the evening brings a delightful barbecue dinner with your fellow hikers, offering a chance to share experiences and stories from the day.

The night's stay at a mountain lodge at Holaskjol offers added comfort compared to previous accommodations. You can enjoy a refreshing shower and relax before dinner.

Reflect on the day's exploration in a relatively luxurious setting and get a good night's sleep to prepare for your fourth day of hiking tomorrow.

On the fourth day of your highland journey, the hike takes a gentler pace as you trace the course of the Sydri-Ofaera river, leading to the serene Alftavotn lake. This day offers a shorter trek of about 5 miles (8 kilometers), providing ample time for relaxation and reflection amidst the Highlands' natural beauty.

After a leisurely breakfast at the mountain hut at the Holaskjol Highland Center, enjoy some downtime to relax before embarking on the day's hike around noon. Your path initially winds alongside the Sydri-Ofaera, the "Southern Impassable River."

This river and its northern counterpart, Nyrdri-Ofaera or "Northern Impassable River," flows through the Eldgja canyon and eventually joins the larger Skafta river. The turquoise hue of Sydri-Ofaera, a result of glacial meltwater mixed with fine sediments, adds a vivid splash of color to the volcanic landscape.

As you progress along the river, you'll encounter an unnamed yet captivating waterfall and a natural stone bridge that arches over the river's flow. These features add to the day's visual tapestry, creating perfect moments for photography and appreciating Iceland's untouched wilderness.

Your destination, the Alftavotn mountain hut, lies in a region renowned for its small, interconnected lakes within stark volcanic terrain. The contrasting scenery of tranquil waters against the backdrop of rugged mountains offers a peaceful setting to unwind.

The evening at Alftavotn is yours to enjoy the lakeside tranquility, reflect on the journey so far, or simply relax amid this picturesque landscape. The hut by the lake offers a comfortable retreat, setting the stage for a restful night in preparation for the next day's more demanding hike.

Enjoy a delicious dinner with your group. It's a chance to share stories and photos from another unforgettable day of hiking in the Icelandic Highlands. Get a good night's sleep because tomorrow covers the longest distance of the trek.

Day five of your highland trek introduces you to the less-traveled paths of the Icelandic Highlands, guiding you through the Eldgja fissure and alongside the mysterious Svartahnuksfjoll mountain range.

The day begins at the Alftavotn mountain hut, where a hearty breakfast prepares you for the journey ahead. After packing lunch, it's time to embark on today's hike, covering around 13.5 miles (just under 22 kilometers) over seven to eight hours.

Today's route takes you off the conventional trails, venturing into areas seldom visited by travelers. Far from the nearest road and with no trail markers in sight, this path offers a tranquil experience immersed in the untouched beauty of the Highlands. Familiar with these hidden tracks, your skilled guide ensures a safe and enlightening journey.

As you traverse the Alftavotn valley, you'll be greeted by a tapestry of lakes and rivers, each adding to the valley's allure. The journey continues through the Eldgja fissure, leading you to the captivating Svartahnuksfjoll mountains. These mountains, characterized by their dramatic, often snow-capped peaks and shrouded in clouds, cast a mystical aura over the landscape.

You'll find both challenge and peace in this remote area, devoid of human settlements. The guided nature of your trek means you can explore these far-flung areas confidently without worrying about losing your way.

Midway through your hike, you'll reach Strutslaug, a natural geothermal area perfect for a rejuvenating break. Here, amidst this secluded location, you can unwind in the hot springs. Remember to bring your swimsuit and towel, as there are no facilities, but the remoteness assures privacy.

Feeling refreshed, you'll continue the trek to the Strutur mountain hut, your resting place for the night, about a 90-minute walk from the hot springs. The evening brings a chance to enjoy a barbecue dinner with your group, sharing stories and relaxing before settling down for a well-deserved rest in the cabin.

The sixth day marks the final trekking leg of your Highlands journey, presenting a stunning hike through the Vedurhals mountain ridge and across the stark Maelifellssandur desert.

Begin your day at the Strutur mountain hut with a hearty breakfast, fueling up for the 11-mile (approximately 18-kilometer) hike ahead, set to span around seven hours.

Your path leads away from the hut, guiding you along the mesmerizing Vedurhals ridge. This landscape is a testament to Iceland's volcanic past, featuring lava fields, ash-draped slopes, and active steam vents. The terrain here showcases nature's raw power and transformative impact on the land.

As you progress, the hike takes you into the Maelifellssandur desert, a vast expanse of jet-black volcanic sands dominated by the Maelifell volcano. On clear days, the volcano emerges as a striking landmark amidst this surreal desert. In summer, the volcano's conical peak blanketed in lush green moss, offers a vivid contrast against the barren surroundings.

Next, the journey continues through Slysaalda sand ridge, a place marked by a sad history. Known as "Casualty Ridge," it was here in 1868 that a tragic event claimed four lives. A memorial cairn and plaque stand to remember this sorrowful past, adding a reflective note to your hike.

The trail then leads into the picturesque Hvanngil valley, an integral part of the famous Laugavegur hiking route. With its vibrant green meadows, clear streams, and flourishing vegetation, this valley offers a refreshing contrast to the day's earlier volcanic landscapes.

You'll spend your final night on the trail at the Hvanngil hut, enjoying one last dinner with your fellow hikers. This evening is an opportunity to reminisce about the shared experiences and friendships forged throughout your incredible journey.

Settle down for a peaceful night's rest, reflecting on the unforgettable memories made in the heart of the Icelandic Highlands.

On the final day of your highland journey, you'll transition from the remote wilderness back to civilization, enriched with unforgettable memories. After breakfast at the Hvanngil hut, a 4x4 vehicle will pick you up for the scenic drive back to Holaskjol Highland Center.

Your route winds through Maelifellssandur, offering a captivating view of Maelifell mountain, a verdant oasis amidst the expansive black sands. This contrasting landscape, with the black sands underfoot and green hills in the distance, provides a stunning backdrop. On clear days, the imposing Myrdalsjokull glacier, concealing the dormant Katla volcano, looms in the distance, adding to the dramatic scenery.

A brief stop at the Holaskjol Highland Center allows for a moment of reflection before you continue towards the main road. The journey to Reykjavik includes a stop in Vik, a charming village that offers a glimpse into Iceland's coastal life. Here, you can explore the local culture and pick up a souvenir to remind you of your highland adventure.

Your trip also includes visiting the renowned Reynisfjara black sand beach, famous for its powerful waves and striking basalt sea stacks. Take your time to walk along the shore, feeling the sand beneath your feet and listening to the roar of the Atlantic. This beach is a natural wonder and a testament to Iceland's volcanic history and the powerful forces shaping its coastlines.

As you leave Reynisfjara and head back to Reykjavik, expected to arrive around 18:00, you'll have time to reflect on the past week's experiences. The journey from the raw beauty of the Highlands to the breathtaking landscapes of the South Coast offers a fitting conclusion to your Icelandic trek.

Your return to Reykjavik marks the end of this extraordinary seven-day adventure, leaving you with a treasure trove of memories from exploring Iceland's awe-inspiring landscapes.