The best way to see Iceland is to trek it, If you are up for a challenge that combines trekking glaciers and seeing the Northern Lights then read on.
Trekking in Iceland
For the adventure activity holiday of a lifetime, Iceland offers a fantastic landscape of huge waterfalls, glaciers, geysers and steaming hot pools. The capital, Reykjavik, is a small but beautiful city and the trekking in Iceland is fantastic. Iceland is a perfect destination for adventure holidays and this sample eight-day winter trek takes in the best sights including glacier walking and the Northern Lights.
Day-to-day itinerary
Day 1 – Flight to Reykjavik
Your flight to Iceland will be followed by a pleasant three-hour transfer along the spectacular south coast to your remote but welcoming guesthouse at Drangshlid.
Day 2 – Drangshlid to Skogafoss waterfall
The first day of your Icelandic adventure is a great laugh as you receive training in how to use snowshoes. Then it’s off on a snowshoe trek in the hills behind Skogafoss waterfall. You’ll then return to your guesthouse for a well earned Icelandic dinner.
Day 3 - Drangshlid – glacier exploration
This is another fun packed day with a trek up to the Solheimjokul glacier which you then explore – with the aid of crampons and an ice-ax.
Day 4 – Drangshlid to Reykjavik
After two amazing days at Drangshlid you are transported back to Reykjavik but stopping off to see some amazing sights along the way. You will visit the 40 metre (131 feet) high waterfalls at Seljelandsfoss, one of the most spectacular waterfalls in Iceland before heading to the waterfalls at Gullfoss, which really are amazing. You then jump back in your transport for the drive to Geyser to see the geothermal waterspouts. The day ends with a visit to Thingvellir and then it’s back to Reykjavik.
Day 5 – Reykjavik to Mount Hengill
From Reykjavik you are transported to the foot slopes of Mount Hengill where you disembark and once again wear your snowshoes for some more action and adventure. This is a geothermal area dotted with steam-vents and hot springs and is a great (and hot) day out.
Day 6 – Excursion to Glymur waterfall or Mount Skardsheidi
Depending on snow conditions on day six you will take a trek to either the Glymur waterfall or Mount Skardsheidi. Either way, you’ll have a fantastic day and see yet more spectacular Icelandic scenery.
Day 7 – Reykjavik
This is a rest day to recover from your adventures and explore this vibrant city and enjoy some Icelandic cuisine to celebrate the end of a fantastic adventure. If you’re feeling energetic you can go for some treks around the local area.
Day 8 – Flight home
How to get to Reykjavik
We recommends booking this trip through a reputable trekking tour operator. Due to the large distances and terrain covered it is advisable to have knowledgeable guides as well as all of your accommodation booked in advance. For a real adventure and to save some money you could of course book some flights to Iceland and arrange guides and accommodation yourself but using a reputable tour operator has many benefits.
Cost considerations of an Iceland trek
The price of this eight-day Icelandic trekking adventure will vary but your price should include the following:
- Return flights.
- Applicable departure taxes.
- All airport transfer & holiday transport costs.
- All accommodation.
- All meals.
- Adventure holiday leader and full support crew.
- Luggage transfer.
- All equipment and basic medical kits.
Who can do this Icelandic trekking trip?
This eight-day adventure activity trip is suitable to relatively fit individuals who are able to be trek for five to six hours a day. Regardless of your level of fitness, it is always good advice to have a full medical check-up before deciding whether or not to tackle an adventure challenge.
Medical information
Always consult your doctor for a list of all the medical requirements for an adventure activity holiday and make sure you routine vaccinations are all up to date.
Charity trek
Why not look into trekking in Iceland for charity? The experience will allow you to raise vital money for a worthy cause while you enjoy the breathtaking scenery and trekking challenges Iceland has to offer.
Feeling inspired? Why not view our list of Partner Charities and pick a great cause to support.
