Hiking tours in Iceland
Iceland's hiking trails cover some of the most geologically active terrain on earth, passing through rhyolite highlands, across lava fields still warm from recent eruptions, and alongside glaciers that carve valleys into the interior. These guided hiking tours are designed for travellers who want to experience that landscape properly, on foot and with the full picture. Certified local guides lead every trek, accommodation in highland mountain huts and Reykjavík hotels is included, and all logistics are arranged from the moment you arrive. All you need to bring is the right gear and a reasonable level of fitness.
- Guided multi-day treks through Iceland's highland wilderness
- Certified local guides with in-depth knowledge of the terrain
- Mountain hut and hotel accommodation included throughout
- Secure your place with just a 5% deposit
About our Iceland hiking tours
Iceland's hiking season runs from mid-June through early September, when highland trails become accessible and the mountain huts open for the year. These packages are built around that window, covering routes that are simply not walkable at any other time.
The centrepiece of the season is the Laugavegur Trail, a 55-kilometre route from Landmannalaugar south to Þórsmörk that passes through geothermal highlands, black sand desert, glacial rivers, and the sheltered birch forests of Þórsmörk valley. Our 8-day guided tour extends the journey by ascending the Fimmvörðuháls Pass between Eyjafjallajökull and Mýrdalsjökull glaciers, crossing lava fields from the 2010 eruption and visiting the Magni and Móði craters.
Every trek is led by a certified local guide who handles navigation, safety decisions, and river crossings. Luggage is transferred between huts so you hike each stage with a daypack, and meals and accommodation are included throughout. These are active tours suited to travellers with reasonable fitness and some experience of walking in variable weather.
- Trek the Laugavegur Trail from Landmannalaugar to Þórsmörk
- Hike the Fimmvörðuháls Pass between two glaciers
- Luggage transfers between mountain huts included
- Meals and accommodation throughout the trek arranged for you
FAQs about Iceland Hiking tours
Get the answers to all the most common questions about Iceland hiking trips here. If you’re after more in-depth info, check out our Iceland Travel Guide.
The main hiking season runs from mid-June through early September, when highland trails like Laugavegur and Fimmvörðuháls are passable and mountain huts are open. July and August offer the warmest and most stable conditions. June and September are quieter but can bring more unpredictable weather and residual snow at higher elevations.
Laugavegur is Iceland's most well-known long-distance hiking route, covering approximately 55 kilometres from Landmannalaugar to Þórsmörk through the highland interior. The trail passes through geothermal areas, black sand desert, glacial rivers, and lush valley terrain. Many hikers extend the route by continuing over the Fimmvörðuháls Pass to the south coast village of Skógar.
The multi-day highland routes are moderate to challenging and require good fitness. Daily distances typically range from 12 to 20 kilometres with significant elevation changes, and Iceland's weather can shift quickly even in summer. River crossings and exposed terrain are part of some stages. Previous experience on multi-day hikes is useful but not essential if you prepare adequately beforehand.
Experienced hikers can complete some Icelandic trails independently, but a guide provides meaningful advantages on routes like Laugavegur, particularly for navigation, safety decisions in poor weather, and river crossing assessment. On a guided tour, luggage transfers between huts are also arranged, so you hike each day with only a daypack. Guides share knowledge about the geology, ecology, and history of the areas you pass through.
Accommodation on the highland stages is in mountain huts operated by organisations such as the Icelandic Touring Association. Huts provide dormitory-style sleeping, basic cooking and washing facilities, and shelter from the elements. You will need to bring or rent a sleeping bag. Nights in Reykjavík at the start and end of the tour are in standard hotel accommodation.
Essential items include waterproof jacket and trousers, insulating mid-layers, moisture-wicking base layers, sturdy waterproof hiking boots, warm hat and gloves, a sleeping bag, and a headlamp. Trekking poles are recommended for stability on river crossings and steep descents. Leave cotton clothing at home and pack for all weather conditions regardless of the forecast. Specialist hiking gear such as crampons is provided where needed.
Build your fitness over at least two to three months before travelling by hiking regularly, ideally with a loaded pack on hilly terrain. Include training that prepares you for daily distances of 12 to 20 kilometres with elevation gain. If possible, complete at least one overnight or multi-day hike before your trip to test your gear and get a sense of the demands involved.
Yes. These are small group tours, and a significant proportion of travellers join as individuals. The group format and shared hut accommodation make it straightforward to meet fellow hikers along the trail.