Kerlingarfjöll Travel Guide

Discover One of Iceland’s Most Magical Hiking Destinations

If you’re searching for a truly magical, less-crowded destination in Iceland that feels like stepping onto another planet, look no further than Kerlingarfjöll. Located in the remote heart of the Icelandic Highlands, this geothermal mountain range is one of Iceland’s most surreal and visually stunning places — perfect for adventurous travelers, photographers, and nature lovers.

In this guide, we’ll explore everything you need to know about Kerlingarfjöll, from what makes it so special to how to get there, when to visit, what to pack, and why joining a guided tour is one of the best ways to experience it.

What is Kerlingarfjöll?

Kerlingarfjöll, meaning “Old Woman Mountains”, is a rugged and colorful rhyolite mountain range located in Iceland’s central Highlands. Once a volcanic system, this range is now known for its geothermal activity — think steaming vents, boiling mud pots, and bright orange-red hills carved by glacial rivers and hot springs.

This area sits on the Mid-Atlantic Ridge, where tectonic plates pull apart, creating a dynamic and ever-changing landscape shaped by fire and ice. Kerlingarfjöll is part of the Hofsjökull glacier area, one of Iceland’s most geothermally active regions.

Why Visit Kerlingarfjöll?

What makes Kerlingarfjöll so unforgettable?

Unique geothermal landscape: Brightly colored rhyolite mountains combined with steaming fumaroles and geothermal rivers make it feel like a scene from another planet.
Incredible hiking trails: From short walks to full-day treks, there are options for every level.
Photographer’s paradise: The contrast of colors, foggy steam, and dramatic light is a dream for landscape photographers.
Remote and peaceful: Fewer crowds compared to Landmannalaugar or the Golden Circle.
Rich biodiversity: The geothermal warmth allows hardy mosses and plants to thrive in this otherwise barren highland environment.

How to Get to Kerlingarfjöll

Kerlingarfjöll is located deep in the central highlands, roughly halfway between Reykjavík and Akureyri, accessible only by highland roads (F-roads), which require a 4×4 vehicle.

Self-driving:

You’ll need to take F35 (Kjölur Route), one of Iceland’s easier F-roads but still rugged and seasonal.
F347 takes you the final stretch to Kerlingarfjöll.
Note: These roads are typically open from late June to early September, depending on snowmelt and weather.

Guided Day Tour from Reykjavík

The Kerlingarfjöll Hiking Day Tour from Reykjavík is one of the best ways to explore this remote region without the hassle of self-driving. Perfect for travelers who want a complete, comfortable experience with local insight, this tour offers:

Pick-up from your accommodation in Reykjavík
Small group transportation in a 4×4 vehicle
Experienced, local guide with deep knowledge of the Highlands
Scenic stops along the Kjölur Route (F35)
Hiking through Hveradalir — Kerlingarfjöll’s geothermal heart

This tour is operated every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday during the summer and is suitable for hikers of moderate fitness.

Book here: Kerlingarfjöll Hiking Day Tour

The Highland Bus (Public Transport Option)

For more independent travelers or those doing a multi-day highland trip, there’s a Highland Bus service that runs during the summer months and stops at Kerlingarfjöll.

Operates mid-June to early September
Routes connect Reykjavík to Kerlingarfjöll via the Kjölur Highland Road (F35)
Ideal for backpackers or those staying overnight at Kerlingarfjöll Highland Base Camp
Return options available if planned in advance

Note: Booking the Highland Bus in advance is highly recommended, as seats are limited and schedules vary by season and weather.

Private Super Jeep or Photo Tours to Kerlingarfjöll

If you want a completely personalized adventure, private tours are the way to go.

Whether you’re a couple looking for a luxury escape or a photographer chasing the perfect shot, we offer custom-made private tours to Kerlingarfjöll with the following options:

Flexible departure times
Photography-focused itineraries with stops timed for best lighting
Travel in super jeeps or modified 4x4s, ideal for rough terrain
Local guides who specialize in storytelling, geology, and photography

Private tours can be tailored for 1-day adventures or multi-day packages with overnight stays in the Highlands or combined with visits to Hveravellir, Geysir, or Gullfoss.

Tours to Kerlingarfjöll from Akureyri

For those based in North Iceland, it’s also possible to visit Kerlingarfjöll from Akureyri, either on a small group day tour or via private tour options.

Small Group Tours from Akureyri:

Depart in the early morning from Akureyri
Travel along the Highland route south toward Kerlingarfjöll
Includes moderate hiking in Hveradalir and photo stops
Available during the summer

Private Tours from Akureyri:

Perfect for families, photographers, or anyone wanting a custom experience
Hotel pick-up in Akureyri
Optional meal and hot spring add-ons

These tours give you a great alternative perspective, approaching the highlands from the north, with possible add-ons like Hveravellir, Askja, or Sprengisandur Highlands for a true off-the-beaten-path journey.

Message us for available dates and custom options from Akureyri.

Top Hiking Trails in Kerlingarfjöll

1. Hveradalir Geothermal Area Loop

Distance: 2–4 km
Difficulty: Easy to moderate
Time: 1–2 hours
Highlights: Steaming vents, geothermal rivers, panoramic mountain views.

Austurfjöll & Snækollur (highest peak)

Distance: 7–10 km
Difficulty: Moderate to challenging
Time: 4–6 hours
Highlights: Summit views, remote ridgelines, colorful hills.

3. Ásgarðsfjall Trail

A less-traveled trail with epic views over the entire Kerlingarfjöll valley.

Even short walks in the area are incredibly rewarding due to the constant presence of steam, color, and contrast.

Best Time to Visit

Kerlingarfjöll is only accessible in the summer months, usually from late June to mid-September. This is when the snow has cleared from the F-roads and trails are safe to hike.

July–August: Ideal for warm weather, long days, and full trail access.
Early September: Fewer people, beautiful autumn colors, and clearer skies (sometimes northern lights!).

Note: Weather in the highlands is unpredictable. Always check the Icelandic Road and Weather Services before heading out.

What to Pack

Even in summer, the weather can change quickly. Be prepared!

Waterproof and windproof jacket & pants
Warm layers (fleece, wool base layers)
Sturdy hiking boots
Hat, gloves, and buff (yes, even in July!)
Water bottle and snacks
Camera with extra battery
Sunscreen & sunglasses (especially for glacier glare)

Join a Guided Kerlingarfjöll Hiking Tour

For those who don’t want to worry about the rough roads or navigating the trails, our Kerlingarfjöll Day Tour is the perfect option:

Operated every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday
Departing from Reykjavík
Includes small group transport, a knowledgeable local guide, and several hours of hiking in the Hveradalir area
Ideal for those who want to experience the beauty without the hassle of driving a 4×4

Book your adventure: Kerlingarfjöll Hiking Tour

Where to Stay (If Not on a Day Tour)

Kerlingarfjöll Highland Resort: Cozy cabins and a restaurant at the base of the mountain. Ideal for overnight stays.
Camping: There’s a campground near the resort for the truly adventurous.
Nearby: Hveravellir, another geothermal oasis, is about an hour’s drive north and also offers accommodation.

Fun Facts

The name “Kerlingarfjöll” comes from a legend about a giantess (kerling) turned to stone.
The area used to be a summer ski resort due to lingering snowfields.
It’s part of a larger protected nature reserve as of 2020 to preserve its unique geology and ecosystem.

Final Thoughts

Kerlingarfjöll is one of those places that makes you feel humbled by nature. It’s raw, remote, colorful, and utterly captivating. Whether you’re a hiker, a photographer, or simply someone who wants to experience the wild side of Iceland beyond the main tourist route, Kerlingarfjöll will leave a lasting impression.

Let us help you make the most of it with our professionally guided day tours — operated every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday this summer!