A trip to Iceland is a wonderful idea. For lovers of nature and wild landscapes, it is a succession of volcanoes, geysers, waterfalls and spectacular glaciers! It is a small territory but a vast expanse of untouched land offering hundreds of possible walks and treks. So if you are planning to visit this country and explore it on foot, here are some ideas for hikes and treks to do on a trip to Iceland. Need ideas for packing your bag? Our selection of clothing for Iceland.
Travelling to Iceland: our selection of treks
The Askja trek
87 km – 5 days – ideal period: mid-June to mid-September
The Askja trek is located in the Highlands of Iceland. The route runs from Herðubreiðarlindir to Svartárkot. It gives you the chance to see Lake Öskjuvatn, which is in fact an ancient caldera filled with water. You can also see the Viti crater to the north of the lake, which holds warm water at 25°C.
This trek can be done with a guide or independently without too much difficulty. It is worth noting, however, that even in summer the weather can be unsettled and snowstorms are not uncommon. Also bear in mind the lack of regular water sources along the route — it is therefore essential to stock up at each refuge.
The Kjalvegur trek
44 km – 3 days – ideal period: mid-June to mid-September
This is a fairly short and easy trek. It follows an ancient horse trail and therefore involves no major elevation changes. It is nonetheless a fine route with spectacular viewpoints, crossing the Kjölur plateau. It connects two glaciers: Langjökull to the east and Hofsjökull to the west.
The Landmannalaugar trek
55 km – 4–6 days – ideal period: mid-June to mid-September
This is undoubtedly Iceland's most famous trek — the celebrated "hot spring route" that takes you from Landmannalaugar all the way to Thorsmork. Along the way you traverse fantastic mountains, a vast and beautiful canyon (the Markarfljótsgljúfur), and arrive at last in the stunning valley of Thorsmork, ringed by three glaciers. For those wanting a little extra distance, it is possible to add 22 additional kilometres to reach the Skogar waterfall (Skogarfoss).
For sporty trail enthusiasts, it is worth noting that an Ultra Trail is held on this trek every July.
The Snaefell trek
80 km – 4–7 days – ideal period: June to early September
This is a fairly demanding trek that is growing in popularity. It takes you from Snæfellsskáli to the Stafafell farm. The scenery is stunning with an almost otherworldly quality — a fitting reward for long hours of effort on a technical and rugged path. You can also extend the adventure by climbing to the summit of Mount Snæfell (1,833 m), accessible only in favourable weather conditions.
Travelling to Iceland: our selection of hikes
Hiking to the summit of Esja
Distance 6 km | duration: 2–4h
Here is a hike to do from the capital Reykjavik. From the top, the view over the city is superb, stretching all the way to the sea. There is also a fine panoramic view of the surrounding mountains. It is a manageable short outing, suitable even for families and day hikers. It is worth noting, however, that the terrain can be slippery in poor weather conditions and that it gets cold at the summit.
Hikes in Skaftafell National Park
Skaftafell National Park is packed with walks and hikes of all lengths, generally accessible to most walkers, even those with little experience.
Here is a short selection of fairly brief hikes — but rest assured there is plenty more to explore in this park:
- Walk to Skaftafell Glacier: Skaftafellsjökull 3.7 km return – duration: 45 min
- Walk to the basalt waterfall of Svartifoss, passing Hundafoss 5.3 km return – duration: 1h30
- Hiking the Sjorarnipa circuit 6.4 km return | duration: 2h30
- Hiking to the summit of Kristínartindar 4 km return – duration: 3h–4h
For slightly longer routes, worth noting:
- The Skaftafellsheidi circuit 15.5 km return – duration: 4h–6h
- Hiking Baejarstadarskogur 13 km return – duration: 3h
- Morsarjokull trail 20.6 km – duration: 4h–6h
- Hiking Kjoss 28.5 km – duration: 5h–7h
There are of course many more discoveries to be made in Iceland for walkers and hikers. It is an almost untouched land offering an inexhaustible playground. Not only does it offer a moderate level of difficulty (no very high altitudes), but at the same time the landscapes and viewpoints are truly breathtaking. And above all, you are far from the overcrowded paths found elsewhere. So don't hesitate — pack your bag, pick your best pair of boots and head out to conquer Iceland!
