Iceland: 9-Day Guided Trekking Tour with Meals

Imagine stepping far beyond the crowds, into Iceland’s rugged heart, where the land is painted with volcanic deserts, steaming hot springs, and towering canyon walls. That’s exactly what you get with this 9-day guided trekking tour through the Southern Highlands. Led by local guides with deep knowledge of Iceland’s geology and folklore, this adventure takes you through landscapes few visitors ever see. For a price that reflects the accommodation, meals, and expert guiding, you’ll find it’s a journey packed with authentic experiences and jaw-dropping scenery.

What we love most is the chance to stay overnight in remote mountain huts—far from the tourist noise—and to explore spectacular geological wonders like the Eldgjá Canyon and Mælifellssandur black sands. Plus, the climb to Peak Sveinstindur rewards you with panoramic views that make every step worthwhile. The only potential drawback is the physical demand; this trip is suited for those prepared for some challenging hikes and variable weather. It’s perfect for adventurous travelers who want to truly connect with Iceland’s natural beauty, not just tick off the typical sights.

If you’re someone who enjoys off-the-beaten-path adventures, loves a good physical challenge, and wants to experience Iceland’s wilderness in an authentic way, this trek will suit you well. It’s ideal for those comfortable with outdoor living, willing to carry some gear, and eager to learn about local folklore from guides who are passionate about their homeland.

Key Points

• Remote landscapes: Explore areas far from tourist crowds, including hot springs, canyons, and volcanic deserts.
• All-inclusive comfort in the wilderness: Stay in mountain huts and campsites with all meals included, simplifying logistics.
• Active exploration: Expect daily hikes, panoramic viewpoints, and challenging terrains suited for active travelers.
• Authentic cultural insights: Guides share local tales, folklore, and natural history, enriching your journey.
• Weather preparedness: Be ready for Iceland’s unpredictable weather and bring suitable outdoor gear.
• Limited group size: Small groups (up to 10) mean more personalized attention and a close-knit atmosphere.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring Iceland’s High Highlands: A Deep Dive

The Itinerary and Its Highlights

Day 1-2: Arrival and Landmannalaugar
Your adventure begins with a transfer from the airport to the starting point in the Icelandic highlands. You’ll immediately notice the shift from the busy city streets to the vibrant geothermal valley of Landmannalaugar. Known for its multi-colored rhyolite mountains and steaming hot springs, Landmannalaugar is a favorite for a reason. Here, we loved the way guides explained the geology behind the swirling colors, making the landscape more meaningful. Expect some gentle walks on arrival day, giving you time to acclimate and soak in the geothermal warmth.

Day 3-4: Trek to Lake Álftavatn and Through Volcanoed Terrain
Over the next couple of days, you’ll traverse black sands of Mælifellssandur—a striking volcanic sandscape that’s perfect for photographers. The landscape is stark but beautiful, with the contrast of black sand, green moss, and distant glaciers. We appreciated the detailed route descriptions and the opportunity to learn about Iceland’s volcanic history from your guides. The trek to Lake Álftavatn offers calm waters amid wild surroundings, ideal for reflection and relaxation.

Day 5-6: Eldgjá Canyon and Hot Springs
One of the tour’s real gems is exploring Eldgjá Canyon, a deep, dramatic gorge carved by ancient volcanic activity. Guides shared folklore about the canyon’s mythic past, adding a layer of cultural depth. The area is rugged and remote, with fewer visitors, making the experience feel truly special. Expect to trek through volcanic deserts and enjoy hot springs along the way—an excellent reward after a long day of walking.

Day 7-8: Peak Sveinstindur and Glacier Views
Climbing to Peak Sveinstindur is a highlight, offering sweeping vistas of glaciers, lakes, and volcanic formations. The ascent is physically demanding but well worth the effort. We loved the sense of accomplishment and the panoramic views that stretch for miles. The guides’ knowledge about the landscape’s formation made the scenery even more vivid.

Day 9: Return and Reflection
The final day involves a gentle walk back to the starting point, with plenty of time to soak in the last views and share stories with your fellow trekkers. The journey concludes with transportation back to Reykjavík or the airport, ending your immersive Icelandic wilderness experience.

Authentic Experiences and Practical Details

Accommodation in mountain huts and campsites plays a big role in the tour’s appeal. Staying in these remote spots keeps you far from crowded tourist areas and offers a true wilderness immersion. The meals provided are hearty and local-inspired, giving you energy for each day’s hikes without the hassle of finding your own food in the highlands.

The small group size—limited to 10 participants—ensures personalized attention from guides who are passionate about sharing their homeland. Several reviews highlight how guides go beyond just leading hikes, offering rich stories and folklore that deepen your understanding of Iceland’s culture.

Transportation is included from the airport to the starting point and back, taking the stress out of travel logistics. However, you’ll need to bring your own hiking gear—such as sturdy hiking shoes, outdoor clothing, and essentials like water, camera, and a sleeping bag.

What Travelers Say

Many reviews praise the authenticity of the experience. One reviewer mentioned, “We loved the way the guides explained the geology and stories behind each place, making it more than just a walk.” Others appreciated the remote location and the chance to disconnect from the digital world, describing it as a true escape into nature.

Some cautioned about the physical demands—”This is not for casual walkers,” one said—and emphasized the importance of preparing physically and packing appropriate gear. The unpredictable weather was also a recurring theme, so packing layered, waterproof clothing is essential.

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Value and Cost Analysis

While the price might seem steep at first glance, it includes guiding, accommodations, all meals, and transportation—which in Iceland, can add up quickly if you’re organizing independently. The value lies in the expert guidance, authentic remote locations, and the convenience of all-inclusive logistics. For travelers seeking a wilderness adventure with cultural insights, this trip offers excellent bang for your buck.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This trekking tour is best suited for adventurous travelers who are comfortable with active days and variable weather. It’s perfect if you crave an authentic experience off the beaten path, want to learn about Icelandic folklore from passionate guides, and enjoy staying in remote mountain huts. It’s not ideal for families with small children, pregnant women, or those with mobility issues due to the physical nature and outdoor focus of the trip.

If you’re looking for a deep dive into Iceland’s untouched landscapes and are eager to challenge yourself physically while soaking in some of the country’s most stunning scenery, this tour is a remarkable choice.

FAQ

What should I bring for this trek?
You’ll want to pack warm clothing, waterproof outdoor gear, sturdy hiking shoes, a camera, water, and a sleeping bag. The weather can change quickly, so layered clothing is essential.

Are the accommodations comfortable?
The tour stays in simple mountain huts and campsites designed for outdoor enthusiasts. Expect basic but functional facilities—perfect for enjoying nature.

Is this tour suitable for beginners?
This experience is designed for active travelers comfortable with physical activity. The terrain can be challenging, so some hiking experience is recommended.

What is included in the price?
Guided hikes, accommodations, all meals, access to exclusive locations, local guides’ knowledge, and transportation to and from the trek start point are included.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. The flexible booking policy helps if your plans are uncertain.

Is the group small?
Yes, the group is limited to 10 participants, ensuring a more personalized experience and meaningful interaction with guides.

Wrapping It Up

This 9-day guided trek through Iceland’s highlands offers an incredible opportunity to explore some of the most remote, spectacular landscapes in the country. With a focus on authentic wilderness experiences, it’s ideal for travelers who want to go beyond the standard sightseeing and truly connect with Iceland’s rugged natural beauty. The small group size, knowledgeable guides, and inclusion of all meals and accommodations make it a convenient and value-packed journey.

While physically demanding, the rewards are plentiful: sweeping views, geothermal hot springs, fascinating geological formations, and stories that bring the landscape to life. It’s a trip that’s as much about personal achievement as it is about witnessing extraordinary scenery. If you’re ready to embrace the outdoors and enjoy an authentic Icelandic adventure, this trek might just be your perfect escape into the wild.

Ready for an adventure that takes you into the heart of Iceland’s highlands? With careful planning, a sense of adventure, and a bit of physical preparation, this journey promises memories that will last a lifetime.

You can check availability for your dates here: