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The 3 Best Tours in Kerlingarfjoll
Kerlingarfjoll is one of Iceland’s most striking highland areas, famous for its colorful rhyolite mountains, steaming geothermal valleys, and vast snow-covered fields. It’s a place where the landscape seems to have been painted by a wild artist, and the tours here offer some of the most memorable ways to experience this surreal scenery. Whether you're after a gentle ride through geothermal valleys, a rugged off-road adventure, or a relaxing soak in hot water, Kerlingarfjoll has something for you.
We especially like the Highland Base E-bike Mountain Tour for its combination of easy riding and spectacular views, perfect for those who want a taste of the highlands without breaking a sweat. The Exclusive 4×4 Highland Expedition takes you way beyond the crowds into untouched landscapes, ideal if you’re craving a private adventure. And for a soothing break, the Highland Baths Admission provides a relaxing soak with breathtaking scenery.
1. Kerlingarfjöll: Highland Base E-bike Mountain Tour
At number one, this 1.5-hour e-bike tour offers a fantastic way to explore Kerlingarfjoll without exhausting yourself. You start at the Highland Base and follow mountain trails on electric bikes, making it accessible even for casual riders. The tour passes by iconic geothermal valleys and glacial rivers, giving travelers a chance to see geothermal activity up close and enjoy sweeping mountain panoramas. The electric bikes provide assistance, so you can focus on taking pictures and soaking in the scenery.
What makes this tour stand out is its ease and accessibility—perfect for families or anyone wanting to experience the highlands without intense physical exertion. Stops are included for photos, making sure you don’t miss those perfect Icelandic landscape shots. For about $164, you get a guided ride that balances adventure and comfort. Riders have called it an “easy yet stunning ride,” with some mentioning how the views of snowy fields and basalt mountains are unforgettable. The guide’s local knowledge enhances the experience, making each stop informative and engaging.
Bottom Line: If you want an active but manageable way to experience Kerlingarfjoll’s geothermal beauty, this e-bike tour is a smart pick. It offers a good balance of scenery, comfort, and value.
2. Kerlingarfjöll: Exclusive 4×4 Highland Expedition
For those seeking an all-day, private adventure into Iceland’s remote highlands, the Exclusive 4×4 Highland Expedition is hard to beat. Priced at $579 per person, this full-day journey takes about 12 hours and ventures beyond the usual tourist routes. Starting from Reykjavík, you’ll travel in a private 4×4 vehicle with a dedicated driver-guide, ensuring personalized attention and flexible planning.
This tour is special because it combines visiting the well-known Gullfoss waterfall and Geysir with an immersive trek through Kerlingarfjoll’s rhyolite mountains and geothermal valleys. The guide, with extensive local knowledge, takes you off the beaten path to see vibrant geothermal steaming areas and colorful mineral deposits often hidden from larger groups. A highlight is the 3-hour guided trek through the geothermal valley, where the landscape looks like a painting of reds, yellows, and oranges. The trip ends with a swim in the Highland Base’s hot springs, perfect for relaxing after a day of exploring.
Guests love the exclusivity and the chance to explore in a small, comfortable group. One reviewer mentioned, “This trip gave us a unique view of Iceland’s highlands we couldn’t get elsewhere,” emphasizing the personalized experience. For those with a day to spare and a desire for adventure, this is a high-value, unforgettable option.
Bottom Line: If you want a luxurious, private expedition with in-depth exploration of geothermal landscapes, this full-day tour offers both comfort and discovery.
$579 per person
3. Kerlingarfjöll: Highland Baths Admission
Sometimes the best way to enjoy Kerlingarfjoll is simply to relax and soak in its geothermal warmth. The Highland Baths Admission offers a peaceful 2-hour experience for just $34. You can visit this hot spring area any time during its operational hours—check availability before your trip.
The highlight here is the chance to unwind in geothermal pools with stunning views of the surrounding mountains. The baths are warm and inviting, ideal after a day of trekking or exploring. You can also enjoy the sauna, which offers a spectacular view of the landscape, and take a dip in the cold pool to invigorate your senses. It’s a straightforward, affordable way to indulge in Iceland’s famous geothermal bathing culture.
The reviews often praise the breathtaking scenery while soaking, with one saying, “It’s the perfect way to relax and take in the views after a day of adventure.” It’s suited for travelers looking for a low-key activity that still delivers a memorable experience. Keep in mind, the duration is flexible, so you can linger if you wish.
Bottom Line: For a budget-friendly way to relax and enjoy Kerlingarfjoll’s geothermal scenery, this admission ticket makes for an ideal, rejuvenating break.
$34 per person
How to Choose
When deciding among these tours, consider your personal interests and travel style. If you prefer a gentle, scenic ride that’s easy for most fitness levels, the E-bike Mountain Tour offers a fantastic introduction to the highlands. For a full-day, private, and in-depth exploration, the Highland Expedition provides a luxurious, immersive adventure suited to those who want exclusivity and comprehensive sightseeing. If relaxation is your priority, the Highland Baths allow you to unwind in geothermal waters with minimal effort.
Think about your time availability—if you only have a few hours, the e-bike tour or baths are perfect. For a longer, more in-depth experience, the 4×4 expedition is ideal. Also, consider your physical fitness: the e-bike tour is accessible for most, while the 4×4 expedition involves some walking and trekking, and the baths are great for just relaxing.
Booking early is recommended, especially in peak season (summer to early fall), as these experiences can fill up quickly. Planning ahead ensures you’ll get your preferred date and avoid disappointment.
Final Thoughts
Kerlingarfjoll offers a range of ways to explore its stunning highland scenery, from light adventures to full-day private expeditions. For a beginner-friendly experience with fantastic scenery, the e-bike tour hits the mark. If you’re after a more exclusive, in-depth adventure, the 4×4 expedition provides unmatched access to remote geothermal valleys. And for pure relaxation, the geothermal baths are hard to beat.
No matter which tour you choose, Kerlingarfjoll’s otherworldly landscape is sure to leave a lasting impression. Book early, pack your sense of adventure, and get ready to experience one of Iceland’s most spectacular regions.