Highland Tours in Iceland
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Highlands Tours in Iceland
Highland tours in Iceland take you deep into the country’s untouched heart — a vast wilderness of volcanic deserts, colorful mountains, and glacial rivers. Known as Hálendið in Icelandic, the highlands cover much of Iceland’s interior and remain one of Europe’s last true frontiers.
This is where adventure travelers come to explore otherworldly landscapes, cross F-roads, and discover geothermal valleys far from civilization. The highlands are only accessible for a few months each year, making every visit feel like a rare privilege. Whether you explore by Super Jeep, guided expedition, or self-drive 4×4, every highland journey promises an unforgettable connection to Iceland’s raw natural beauty.
Why Explore Iceland’s Highlands?
Iceland’s highlands are unlike anywhere else on Earth. Stretching across the center of the island, this uninhabited region is a world of contrasts — black lava deserts, bright green moss, steaming geothermal vents, and glacial rivers cutting through rugged valleys.
In summer, melting snow reveals hidden trails and mountain routes. You’ll drive or hike past volcanic craters, cross shallow rivers, and witness landscapes that look like they belong on another planet.
Unlike the coastal ring road, the highlands remain wild, remote, and free from crowds. Here, you can truly disconnect — just you, your guide, and the vast Icelandic wilderness.
Exploring the highlands means trading paved roads for F-roads, spotting steaming vents beside snow patches, and seeing Iceland’s most dramatic scenery up close. It’s an adventure of extremes — and one of the most memorable ways to experience the island.
Highlights of the Icelandic Highlands
Renowned for its colorful rhyolite mountains, steaming hot springs, and lava fields, Landmannalaugar is a hiker’s paradise. Trails like the Laugavegur Trek or shorter loops around Laugahraun Lava Field showcase the vibrant geothermal landscape.
2. Þórsmörk (Thorsmork) Valley
Surrounded by glaciers and mountains, Þórsmörk is a lush valley that offers incredible hiking trails and dramatic views. Highlights include the Fimmvörðuháls Trail, which passes between two glaciers, and Valahnúkur Mountain, providing panoramic vistas of the surrounding area.
3. Askja Caldera
Located in the remote northern Highlands, Askja Caldera is home to Víti Crater Lake, where you can take a dip in its warm geothermal waters. The desolate beauty of the surrounding volcanic terrain feels like stepping onto another planet.
4. Kjölur Route
The Kjölur Highland Route takes you through a landscape of glaciers, geothermal areas, and mountain ranges. Stops include the Hveravellir Geothermal Area, where you can soak in a natural hot spring while surrounded by steaming vents.
Kerlingarfjöll geothermal mountain range features steaming valleys, colorful hills, and snow-capped peaks. The Hveradalir geothermal area is a highlight, offering hiking trails that weave through bubbling mud pots and steaming hot springs.
6. Sprengisandur
One of the most remote regions of the Highlands, Sprengisandur is a vast desert-like plateau surrounded by glaciers. It’s the ultimate destination for those seeking solitude and raw natural beauty.
Mælifell Volcanic Mountain is one of the most unique place in the Highlands of Iceland. Taking a guided tour to visit Mælifell is highly recommended since the driving is difficult, there are a few river crossings along the way and safety should always be the number one priority.
Types of Highland Tours Available
The Icelandic highlands are accessible only by specially equipped vehicles and guided tours. Depending on your travel style, you can choose from several types of highland adventures:
Super Jeep tours are the most thrilling way to experience Iceland’s rugged highlands in a single day. These powerful 4×4 vehicles are designed to handle river crossings, lava fields, and steep mountain roads that regular cars can’t reach.
Popular destinations include Landmannalaugar, Thórsmörk, and Hveravellir, each offering incredible natural beauty.
Guided by experienced local drivers, you’ll discover remote landscapes while learning about Iceland’s geology, history, and folklore along the way.
For those who crave deeper exploration, multi-day highland tours venture far into Iceland’s interior. You’ll travel across vast desert plateaus, visit volcanic craters like Askja, and overnight in cozy mountain huts or campsites surrounded by nature.
These tours often follow legendary routes such as Sprengisandur or Kjölur, connecting north and south Iceland through breathtaking wilderness.
It’s a true expedition — perfect for travelers seeking isolation, adventure, and Iceland’s most dramatic scenery.
Self-Drive Highland Packages
If you prefer flexibility, self-drive highland tours let you explore at your own pace with a detailed itinerary, GPS map, and expert guidance from local tour planners.
You’ll rent a capable 4×4 vehicle and set off into Iceland’s interior, following pre-planned routes that highlight waterfalls, geothermal areas, and mountain viewpoints.
Self-drive packages can also combine highland travel with other regions — such as the South Coast, Golden Circle, or Snæfellsnes Peninsula — for a well-rounded adventure.
Why Take Tour to the Highlands of Iceland?
1. Access Remote Areas
The Highlands are accessible only by 4×4 vehicles or specialized Super Jeeps. A guided Highland tour ensures you can reach these rugged and isolated areas safely, without worrying about navigation or road conditions.
2. Expert Local Guides
Highland tours are led by experienced guides who are deeply familiar with the region. They share fascinating insights about the geology, history, and legends of the area, adding depth to your experience.
3. Diverse Adventures
Whether you’re interested in hiking, photography, geothermal bathing, or simply enjoying the dramatic scenery, Highland tours offer something for everyone. Some tours also include thrilling activities like glacier hiking or river crossings.
4. Unique Landscapes
The Highlands are unlike anywhere else in Iceland, with their desolate beauty, colorful geothermal areas, and towering volcanic peaks. A tour allows you to see these remote wonders up close.
5. Time Efficiency
A guided tour is the most efficient way to explore the Highlands, as guides know the best routes, hidden gems, and how to optimize your time while ensuring a safe and smooth journey.
Combining Highlands with Other Iceland Attractions
Many travelers combine highland tours with Iceland’s most famous lowland attractions for a complete adventure.
A day or two exploring the highlands pairs perfectly with sightseeing along the South Coast, soaking in the Blue Lagoon, or visiting the Golden Circle (Geysir, Gullfoss, and Þingvellir).
You can also add glacier hikes, waterfalls, or even a helicopter flight for a truly once-in-a-lifetime experience.
Combining destinations allows you to balance rugged adventure with comfort, culture, and relaxation.
Best Time to Visit the Highlands
The Icelandic highlands are accessible only during the summer months, typically from late June to early September, when snow has melted and rivers are passable.
During this short window, F-roads open, revealing a world of hidden valleys, craters, and geothermal wonders.
Outside of summer, these routes are closed due to snow, flooding, or poor visibility, and access is restricted to professional expeditions.
For the best experience, plan your highland trip between mid-July and late August, when conditions are most stable and daylight lasts late into the evening.
What to Expect on a Highland Tour in Iceland?
Duration
Tours can range from 1-day excursions to multi-day adventures that explore several Highland regions.
Transportation
- Most Highland tours use Super Jeeps or 4×4 vehicles, designed to traverse rough terrain, cross rivers, and navigate gravel roads.
Season
- The Highlands are generally accessible from June to September, depending on weather conditions and road openings.
Activities
- Hiking, geothermal bathing, photography, and guided exploration of volcanic landscapes and glaciers.
Who Should Take a Highland Tour?
1. Nature Enthusiasts
The Highlands are a paradise for those who love wild, untamed landscapes and want to explore Iceland’s most remote areas.
2. Adventure Seekers
With rugged terrain, glacier hikes, and thrilling river crossings, the Highlands are perfect for travelers looking for an adrenaline rush.
3. Hikers
From iconic trails like the Laugavegur Trek to shorter hikes in Þórsmörk or Kerlingarfjöll, the Highlands are a dream destination for trekking enthusiasts.
4. Photographers
The vibrant colors, steaming geothermal areas, and otherworldly landscapes provide endless opportunities for stunning photographs.
Why Book a Guided Highland Tour in Iceland?
Safety
The Highlands are remote and weather conditions can change rapidly. A guided tour ensures your safety, especially when navigating challenging roads or river crossings.
Convenience
Guided tours take care of all logistics, from transportation to itinerary planning, so you can focus on enjoying the experience.
Deeper Understanding
Learn about the geology, history, and folklore of the Highlands from knowledgeable local guides.
How Booking & Logistics Work
Booking a highland tour in Iceland is simple — you can do it here on our website! Find variety of highland tours Iceland in the list here above.
Super Jeep day tours include hotel pickup, professional guides, and full off-road transport.
Multi-day expeditions provide accommodation (huts or camping), meals, and luggage support.
Self-drive routes require a 4×4 vehicle and careful planning. Always check F-road conditions before you go (Road.is).
Most tours depart from Reykjavík, Hella, or Vík, making it easy to connect your highland adventure with other Iceland regions. If you want a customized itinerary you can also reach out to our local experts and we will design the perfect Iceland trip for you.
Top Iceland Highland Tour Options
- Day Tours: Perfect for those with limited time, these tours focus on a specific region, such as Landmannalaugar or Þórsmörk.
- Multi-Day Adventures: Explore multiple Highland regions over several days, with accommodations in remote lodges or campsites. It is also possible to go on multi-day hiking tours through the highlands.
- Custom Tours: Tailored experiences for private groups, allowing you to choose your preferred activities and destinations. Send us an email to info@icelandtravelguide.is for this option.
What to Bring & Highland Travel Tips
Map & Route Overview
Frequently asked questions
The Highlands are the vast, uninhabited interior of Iceland, known for dramatic volcanic landscapes, glaciers, geothermal areas, and colorful rhyolite mountains. It’s one of the most remote and untouched parts of the country, only accessible in summer.
Most Highland roads and trails are only open from mid-June to mid-September, depending on weather and snow conditions. July and August usually offer the best access, milder temperatures, and longer daylight hours.
Access is usually via special mountain roads called F-roads, which are gravel tracks often crossing rivers. Regular rental cars are not allowed on F-roads. To reach the Highlands safely, you need a 4×4 vehicle or to join a guided tour where transport is provided.
Yes, if you’re driving yourself. F-roads require high-clearance 4×4 vehicles, and drivers should be confident with rough terrain and river crossings. If you’re not comfortable with that, booking a Highland tour is the safest option.
Most day tours can be enjoyed by travelers with a normal level of fitness. Hiking tours (such as Kerlingarfjoll or Landmannalaugar) require more stamina but are still considered moderate. Families with children are welcome on many tours, but always check the tour details before booking.
Sturdy hiking boots (waterproof recommended)
Warm layers and waterproof outerwear (weather changes fast)
Hat and gloves, even in summer
Reusable water bottle
Snacks or packed lunch (food options are limited in the Highlands)
Swimsuit and towel if the tour includes hot springs (like Landmannalaugar)
No, most Highland areas are completely closed in winter due to snow, storms, and unsafe road conditions. Winter visitors can instead enjoy South Coast, Golden Circle, or glacier tours.
Yes, if you have a suitable 4×4 vehicle, experience with F-road driving, and check weather and road conditions daily. However, many visitors prefer a guided tour to avoid stress, enjoy the scenery, and learn from local guides.
They take you far from the crowds into Iceland’s wildest landscapes. Expect geothermal valleys, colorful rhyolite mountains, lava fields, glacial rivers, and natural hot springs. It feels like stepping onto another planet.
Facilities are limited—there are a few mountain huts, basic toilets, and campgrounds in some areas, but no shops or restaurants. It’s important to bring everything you need with you.
Yes, river crossings can be risky if you’re not experienced. Depth and flow change daily with rain or melting ice. That’s why many people prefer guided tours where professional drivers handle it safely.
Tours may be altered, delayed, or cancelled if weather or road conditions make travel unsafe. Icelandic weather changes quickly, so guides often adapt the route to give the best possible experience while keeping safety first.