Kerlingarfjöll Geothermal Highlands Day Tour from Reykjavik

About this experience

Escape the crowds and discover one of Iceland’s best-kept secrets on this full-day adventure into the remote Highlands.
Travel deep into the rugged interior to Kerlingarfjöll, a spectacular mountain range known for its steaming geothermal valleys, colorful rhyolite peaks, and otherworldly landscapes. Often compared to Mars, this hidden region offers a side of Iceland that few visitors ever experience.
With your expert guide, enjoy a scenic small-group hike through the Hveradalir geothermal valley, where bubbling hot springs, steaming vents, and vivid mineral-stained hills create an unforgettable setting. Along the way, take in sweeping views of glaciers, highland rivers, and untouched wilderness far from the typical tourist routes.
This tour is perfect for travellers looking to go beyond the Golden Circle and experience a more authentic, adventurous side of Iceland—without needing to self-drive into the Highlands.

What's included

Itinerary

1. Tour stop

   Our adventure begins with an 8 a.m. pick-up from Reykjavik at your chosen location from our pick-up list. Once everyone is on board, we'll depart the city and head towards the remote Icelandic highlands. After we've spent some time exploring the area and enjoying the geothermal wonders of Kerlingarfjöll, we'll head back to Reykjavík for an evening arrival.

2. Tour stop

   We make a brief stop at Gullfoss where you can use the restroom and purchase snacks or lunch to go.

3. Tour stop

   The highlight of Kerlingarfjöll is the Hveradalir valley, a stunning and iconic landscape. Hveradalir, meaning ‘the Valley of the Hot Springs,’ is one of the largest geothermal valleys in Iceland. The site is surrounded by the colorful rhyolite mountains of the Kerlingarfjöll range, offering spectacular surroundings and excellent hiking opportunities. Some hot springs here are so powerful that they should only be admired from a safe distance. Please note that the duration of the hike depends on the trail and weather conditions but we aim to hike for around 2 hours.

   Pass by without stopping
4. Tour stop

   Our destination is Kerlingarfjöll, a volcanic mountain range in central Iceland, known for its steaming geothermal valleys, rushing glacial rivers, and breathtaking panoramic views. We’ll make a quick rest stop at Gullfoss before transitioning from paved roads to highland mountain roads. Along the way, you'll be treated to views of the vast black highland desert and glacial lagoons, eventually arriving at the mountainous oasis of Kerlingarfjöll. Our first stop in this region will be The Highland Base, located in the Ásgarður Valley at the edge of Kerlingarfjöll, where we can stretch our legs.

Know before you go

• Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
• Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
• Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
• Duration of the tour is 11.5-12 hours including travel time
• Kerlingarfjöll is in the remote highlands where weather can be unpredictable. Please note that the trail may be muddy, and it's not unusual to encounter snow - even in the summer. Please dress in layers and wear sturdy boots with good tread that you do not mind getting dirty.