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Dates 2025
Upon request only All departures are to be booked as private. Type: Walking/Hiking tour with private guide. Duration: 6 days / 4 walking days / 5 nights Level of expertise required: Moderate – walking is 10-16 km per day Area: South Iceland Meals: Breakfast and picnic lunch Our Hike & Relax tours are ideal for nature lovers who enjoy hiking or walking but prefer a quiet evening at a cozy hotel rather than staying in a basic mountain hut with a large group. We hike approximately 15-18 km per day with a private local guide and unwind in the evening in the geothermal pool at the remote Kerlingarfjöll Highland Resort. As these tours are private, you decide the length and difficulty of each hike. Our friendly and knowledgeable local guides will take you to off-the-beaten-path locations known only to locals. Join us for an unforgettable adventure in Iceland’s beautiful and remote landscapes! Please contact us for more information and booking |
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The Kerlingarfjöll Mountains are a beautiful volcanic range in the middle of the Icelandic Highlands. The area features extensive geothermal activity, including steaming vents, hot springs, and sulfur deposits, creating a unique, otherworldly landscape. Geological studies suggest that most of the mountains formed during the last Ice Age.
Kerlingarfjöll is also known for its colorful rhyolite formations, which give the mountains their distinctive multi-colored appearance. During the Ice Age, most of the region’s volcanic activity occurred beneath glaciers, creating steep mountains as magma melted cavities in the ice and accumulated in towering formations. The highest peaks, including Fannborg, Snækollur, Loðmundur, Hverahnúkur, Snjót, Halla, and Eyvindur, were all formed this way. A few times, volcanic activity broke through the glacier's surface, forming the rhyolite table mountains Loðmundur and Höttur, which are considered globally rare geological formations. |
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Day by day itinerary
Day 1: Private Transfer from Keflavík Airport to Reykjavík
Upon arrival at Keflavík International Airport, a driver will greet your small group and take you to Reykjavík, the vibrant capital of Iceland. You will stay at 4 star centrally located hotel in Reykjavik. Many of Reykjavík’s most famous sights—such as the Old Harbour, Parliament Square, Hallgrímskirkja Church, and the shopping street Laugavegur—are within easy walking distance.
We highly recommend booking a Reykjavík Food Walk in the afternoon to explore the city (optional).
Accommodation: 4 star hotel centrally located in Reykjavik (Standard room, incl. breakfast and access to the hotel spa)
Day 2: Geysir Strokkur – Gullfoss Waterfall – Hvítárvatn Glacier Lake
Meet & Greet at 9:00 AM with your hiking guide in the hotel reception.
Your first stop is the famous Geysir Strokkur, which erupts regularly, sending a water fountain up to 30 meters high. A short drive away is Gullfoss, the "Golden Waterfall."
We set off for a gentle walk along the east side of Gullfoss, which is less crowded and offers stunning views of this magnificent waterfall. (Easy walk on even terrain, approx. 2 hours)
Next, we head into the Highlands! Our next stop is Hvítárvatn Glacier Lake, where we hike along ancient riding trails with breathtaking views of Hrefnubúðir and Kjalfell mountains. Listen to fascinating stories of famous outlaws and historical horseback journeys across the Highlands. (Easy walk on mostly even terrain, approx. 3 hours)
We then travel to our hotel for the next 3 nights, nestled in a beautiful valley between the stunning peaks of Kerlingarfjöll. After this first day of hiking, enjoy the geothermal baths and sauna.
Accommodation: Kerlingarfjöll Highland Base – Deluxe room (incl. breakfast and access to the hotel spa for 3 nights)
Meals included: Breakfast buffet and picnic lunch
Walking distance: Approx.15-18 km / 4-5 hours (total tour time: 8-9 hrs)
Elevation gain: 80 m
Days 3 & 4: Hiking in the Kerlingarfjöll Mountain Range
The Kerlingarfjöll area offers numerous hiking options, ranging from moderate trails to longer and more challenging routes. One of the most popular hikes leads to the steaming geothermal valleys of Hveradalir, featuring boiling hot springs, fumaroles, and multi-colored rhyolite hills.
For those seeking a challenge, the Snækollur summit—the highest peak in Kerlingarfjöll—offers spectacular panoramic views. Other options include the Austurfjöll Traverse, a remote trek across the eastern mountains with glacial remnants, rhyolite peaks, and geothermal vents.
Or, take on the Fannborg Loop, a scenic ridge hike with breathtaking views of the Highlands and Hofsjökull Glacier, featuring contrasting landscapes from snow-covered peaks to geothermal hot spots.
Your guide will choose the best trails based on weather conditions, terrain, and your experience.
There is also possibility to do some optional tours f.ex. Mountain Biking or just relax at the hotel.
Every evening, unwind in the geothermal baths and sauna. If visiting in late summer or autumn, you may even catch a glimpse of the magical Northern Lights .
Meals included: Breakfast buffet and picnic lunch
Walking distance: Approx. 15-18 km per day / 4-5 hours
Elevation gain: Varies depending on the route chosen
Day 5: Þingvellir National Park & Sky Lagoon
We say goodbye to the beautiful Highlands and take a final hike in Þingvellir National Park, walking along ancient historical paths past abandoned farms along the lakeside.
We end the day with a long, relaxing soak in the Sky Lagoon, enjoying its stunning infinity pool!
Return to our hotel in Reykjavik for our last night in Iceland
Optional: Whale watching (summer)/ Northern Lights boat tour (autumn)
Meals included: Breakfast buffet and picnic lunch
Walking distance: Approx. 15 km / 3-4 hours/Elevation gain: 50 m
Accommodation: 4 star hotel centrally located in Reykjavik
Day 6: Departure
Enjoy a private transfer to the airport and depart.
Exploring Iceland reserves the right to alter routes, itineraries, or timetables as necessary. Estimated distances and times may change based on road or weather conditions.
Upon arrival at Keflavík International Airport, a driver will greet your small group and take you to Reykjavík, the vibrant capital of Iceland. You will stay at 4 star centrally located hotel in Reykjavik. Many of Reykjavík’s most famous sights—such as the Old Harbour, Parliament Square, Hallgrímskirkja Church, and the shopping street Laugavegur—are within easy walking distance.
We highly recommend booking a Reykjavík Food Walk in the afternoon to explore the city (optional).
Accommodation: 4 star hotel centrally located in Reykjavik (Standard room, incl. breakfast and access to the hotel spa)
Day 2: Geysir Strokkur – Gullfoss Waterfall – Hvítárvatn Glacier Lake
Meet & Greet at 9:00 AM with your hiking guide in the hotel reception.
Your first stop is the famous Geysir Strokkur, which erupts regularly, sending a water fountain up to 30 meters high. A short drive away is Gullfoss, the "Golden Waterfall."
We set off for a gentle walk along the east side of Gullfoss, which is less crowded and offers stunning views of this magnificent waterfall. (Easy walk on even terrain, approx. 2 hours)
Next, we head into the Highlands! Our next stop is Hvítárvatn Glacier Lake, where we hike along ancient riding trails with breathtaking views of Hrefnubúðir and Kjalfell mountains. Listen to fascinating stories of famous outlaws and historical horseback journeys across the Highlands. (Easy walk on mostly even terrain, approx. 3 hours)
We then travel to our hotel for the next 3 nights, nestled in a beautiful valley between the stunning peaks of Kerlingarfjöll. After this first day of hiking, enjoy the geothermal baths and sauna.
Accommodation: Kerlingarfjöll Highland Base – Deluxe room (incl. breakfast and access to the hotel spa for 3 nights)
Meals included: Breakfast buffet and picnic lunch
Walking distance: Approx.15-18 km / 4-5 hours (total tour time: 8-9 hrs)
Elevation gain: 80 m
Days 3 & 4: Hiking in the Kerlingarfjöll Mountain Range
The Kerlingarfjöll area offers numerous hiking options, ranging from moderate trails to longer and more challenging routes. One of the most popular hikes leads to the steaming geothermal valleys of Hveradalir, featuring boiling hot springs, fumaroles, and multi-colored rhyolite hills.
For those seeking a challenge, the Snækollur summit—the highest peak in Kerlingarfjöll—offers spectacular panoramic views. Other options include the Austurfjöll Traverse, a remote trek across the eastern mountains with glacial remnants, rhyolite peaks, and geothermal vents.
Or, take on the Fannborg Loop, a scenic ridge hike with breathtaking views of the Highlands and Hofsjökull Glacier, featuring contrasting landscapes from snow-covered peaks to geothermal hot spots.
Your guide will choose the best trails based on weather conditions, terrain, and your experience.
There is also possibility to do some optional tours f.ex. Mountain Biking or just relax at the hotel.
Every evening, unwind in the geothermal baths and sauna. If visiting in late summer or autumn, you may even catch a glimpse of the magical Northern Lights .
Meals included: Breakfast buffet and picnic lunch
Walking distance: Approx. 15-18 km per day / 4-5 hours
Elevation gain: Varies depending on the route chosen
Day 5: Þingvellir National Park & Sky Lagoon
We say goodbye to the beautiful Highlands and take a final hike in Þingvellir National Park, walking along ancient historical paths past abandoned farms along the lakeside.
We end the day with a long, relaxing soak in the Sky Lagoon, enjoying its stunning infinity pool!
Return to our hotel in Reykjavik for our last night in Iceland
Optional: Whale watching (summer)/ Northern Lights boat tour (autumn)
Meals included: Breakfast buffet and picnic lunch
Walking distance: Approx. 15 km / 3-4 hours/Elevation gain: 50 m
Accommodation: 4 star hotel centrally located in Reykjavik
Day 6: Departure
Enjoy a private transfer to the airport and depart.
Exploring Iceland reserves the right to alter routes, itineraries, or timetables as necessary. Estimated distances and times may change based on road or weather conditions.
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Highland Base Hotel: Your Perfect Highland Retreat
Nestled in the heart of nature, Highland Base Hotel is a warm and welcoming oasis, designed for those seeking relaxation and a break from the hustle of city life. Every space is crafted with comfort in mind, ensuring a serene atmosphere where guests can unwind and reconnect with nature. For adventure seekers, the hotel is surrounded by breathtaking hiking trails, offering endless opportunities to explore the stunning Icelandic landscapes. After a full day of hiking, indulge in the ultimate relaxation at the nearby Highland Baths in Kerlingarfjöll. Located in the picturesque Ásgarður valley along the Ásgarðsá river, these geothermal baths provide a tranquil escape with stunning mountain views. Immerse yourself in the soothing warmth of the natural hot springs and let the geothermal waters rejuvenate your body and soul. Stay in Comfort and Style the deluxe rooms offer the perfect blend of elegance and coziness, ensuring a restful night after a day of adventure.
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Erla
Our guide on all departures is Erla Björg Arnardóttir
Erla is a professional tourist guide (Iceland Tourist Guide Association) and gardener. She knows her ways around the highland and is not afraid of driving a super truck or really any other kind of vehicle! She loves to sing, has a brilliant sense of humour and loves to explore he Icelandic outdoors with our guests, friends and family. Erla know lots of hidden places in Iceland she would love to share with you.
Erla is a professional tourist guide (Iceland Tourist Guide Association) and gardener. She knows her ways around the highland and is not afraid of driving a super truck or really any other kind of vehicle! She loves to sing, has a brilliant sense of humour and loves to explore he Icelandic outdoors with our guests, friends and family. Erla know lots of hidden places in Iceland she would love to share with you.
