Southern Iceland is one of the most striking regions for outdoor enthusiasts. Its diverse landscapes—glaciers, volcanoes, hot springs, and rugged highlands—make it a paradise for hikers and trekkers seeking authentic and memorable experiences. We particularly love the glacier hikes, where you can walk across shimmering ice fields and explore icy caves, like the Sólheimajökull Glacier Guided Hike with Equipment. These tours put you right on the edge of Iceland’s natural icy majesty, offering both thrill and education. The mountain treks in Thórsmörk and Hengill showcase Iceland’s volcanic origins and highland serenity, perfect for those wanting a challenging day in spectacular surroundings.
Whether you’re after a short, scenic walk or a full-day adventure tackling glaciers and volcanic terrain, Southern Iceland offers options for all levels. Check out our list below to find the perfect fit, from intimate glacier explorations to private highland journeys.
Quick Overview
Our list highlights nine top hiking and trekking tours in Southern Iceland, each with unique appeal. You’ll find glacier hikes with ice cave visits, like the Sólheimajökull Glacier Hike and Ice Cave Tour, as well as private highland adventures, such as the Thórsmörk Mountain Hike. For those seeking a more rigorous trek, the Hengill Day Trek with Hot Spring offers a full day amidst volcanic landscapes, while the Hverabotn hike takes you to geothermal marvels. From easy outings to intense adventures, this list covers all interests and fitness levels.
1. Sóllheimajökull Glacier: Guided Hike with Equipment
At number 1, this glacier hike offers a classic Icelandic experience—walking on a vast, shimmering ice field with crampons, ice axes, and helmets. The guided tour lasts 2.5 hours and takes you into the deep crevasses and icy ridges of Sólheimajökull. The guides here prioritize safety and storytelling, sharing insights into the glacier’s geology and the effects of climate change. Rave reviews (4.8/5 from 13 reviews) highlight how well-organized and engaging this experience is, with many guests noting the thrill of walking on ice and sipping glacier water at the end.
What makes this tour stand out is the equipment provided—crampons and ice axes—making it accessible even for first-timers. You’ll learn how glaciers form and change, gaining a deeper appreciation for this icy giant. It’s perfect for those who want an authentic, hands-on glacier experience without requiring extensive trekking skills.
Bottom Line: A well-reviewed, manageable glacier adventure that offers great value and a real connection to Iceland’s icy heart.
2. From Rvk: Private Day-Tour to Thorsmork with Mountain Hike
Number 2 is a private tour that takes you into the Thórsmörk nature reserve, a favorite for its dramatic landscapes and lush valleys. This full-day adventure lasts about 10 hours and involves crossing rivers in a modified jeep, which alone is an adrenaline rush. The highlight is a mountain hike on Valahnúkur, where panoramic views of the surrounding glaciers and volcanoes are breathtaking.
Guests consistently praise guide Jonas for his knowledge and flexibility. One reviewer mentioned, “Jonas made sure we saw everything we wanted to see. The beauty of Thorsmork is jaw-dropping!” This tour is ideal for travelers who want a personalized experience, combining scenic off-road driving with a challenging hill hike. The private arrangement means fewer crowds and more tailored attention.
Bottom Line: An excellent choice for those wanting a mix of rugged driving and mountain trekking with a private guide, perfect for adventurous couples or small groups.
3. Sólheimajökull: Glacier Hike and Ice Cave Tour
This 3.5-hour tour allows you to explore both the surface of Sólheimajökull and its inside—a naturally formed, stunning blue ice cave. The itinerary includes a safety briefing, then a 2.5-hour glacier hike over crevasses and ridges, culminating in a visit inside a crystal-clear ice cave. The spectacular ice formations and volcanic ash layers make every moment visually arresting.
Rated 5/5 from 12 reviews, this tour is praised for its balance of adventure and education. Guides are attentive, sharing insights about glacier dynamics and climate change. Many guests love the chance to see inside the ice cave, which is a rare and memorable experience.
Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers seeking an adventurous hike combined with an extraordinary inside look at Iceland’s glaciers.
4. Day Trek to Hengill and the Hot Spring – challenging
Number 4 is a full-day trek across the volcanic Hengill Mountain, lasting about 9 hours. This challenging hike takes you through lava fields, steaming vents, and offers spectacular views of the surrounding landscape. The tour also includes a hot spring dip, which is a rewarding way to relax after the exertion.
Led by an International Mountain Leader, this tour is ideal for experienced hikers or those eager for a physically demanding day. The scenery is rugged, with the terrain shaped by past eruptions, and the sense of accomplishment after reaching the summit is significant. Reviews highlight the tour’s well-organized nature and the exceptional scenery.
Bottom Line: Best suited for active travelers wanting a full-day volcanic adventure combined with natural hot springs; not for casual hikers.
5. From Highland Base: Hike to the geothermal gem Hverabotn
Number 5 takes you to the Hverabotn area, a less-visited geothermal zone. Starting from the Highland Base at Kerlingarfjöll, this 4-hour guided hike explores boiling springs, mud pots, and fumaroles. It’s a great choice for those interested in geothermal activity and volcanic landscapes without the crowds.
The trail offers a less-traveled route, providing a more intimate look at Iceland’s geothermal forces. The tour is suitable for hikers comfortable with moderate terrain. The guide’s local expertise helps visitors understand how these features fit into Iceland’s volcanic history.
Bottom Line: Ideal for geothermal enthusiasts or travelers seeking a quieter, more educational outing in the highlands.
6. Sóllheimajökull Glacier Hike Adventure
This small group tour is limited to 12 people, enhancing the experience’s personal touch. Over about 3 hours, you’ll explore blue crevasses, ice caves, and impressive formations on Sólheimajökull. The focus here is on safety and sustainability, with high-quality equipment and environmental responsibility at the forefront.
Many reviewers mention the serenity of this tour, making it perfect for those who want a quieter, more reflective glacier walk. The guide’s attention to detail and the intimate group size create a memorable experience suited for all levels, including families.
Bottom Line: A top pick for travelers who prefer a smaller, more personalized glacier experience with a focus on environmental respect.
$119 per person
7. Sólheimajökull: Glacier Hike and Blue Ice Cave Tour
For around $191, this 3.5-hour guided hike combines a glacier walk with the exploration of a beautiful, newly discovered blue ice cave. The tour includes gear such as an ice axe, crampons, harness, and helmet, ensuring safety as you explore the glacier’s crevasses and ridges. Guides share insights about how glaciers form and change.
This experience is perfect for those who want a comprehensive glacier adventure with a focus on unique ice caves. The recent discovery of the cave makes this tour feel fresh and exclusive, with stunning visuals and photo opportunities.
Bottom Line: An excellent choice for those wanting a detailed glacier exploration plus the chance to see a rare ice cave.
$191 per person
8. Sólheimajökull: Glacier Hike and Ice Climbing Tour
Number 8 combines a glacier hike with ice climbing, lasting about 4 hours. Guided by experts, you’ll learn how to climb ice formations and experience the power of the glacier firsthand. The landscape includes water cauldrons, ridges, and crevasses—ideal for those who want a hands-on, physically demanding adventure.
This tour is best suited for active travelers who want to push their limits and learn new skills. The ability to ice climb on actual glacier ice makes it stand out from more typical hikes. Expect a challenging but rewarding experience.
Bottom Line: For thrill-seekers and those eager to try ice climbing, this tour delivers a memorable, empowering experience.
$196 per person
9. Sólheimajökull: Ice Cave & Glacier Hike
Number 9 offers a 4-hour guided journey across Sólheimajökull to visit the newly discovered Azure Ice Cave. The combination of hiking and inside exploration makes for a diverse experience. Guides emphasize safety and provide all necessary gear, so you can focus on the stunning blue ice and ice formations.
Many reviews mention the breathtaking beauty of the ice cave and the educational value of learning about glacier features. This tour is perfect for photographers and nature lovers alike.
Bottom Line: A fantastic, all-encompassing glacier tour that balances surface exploration with inside visits to stunning ice caves.
How to Choose Your Perfect Icelandic Trek
Choosing between these tours depends on your fitness level, interests, and time constraints. For a straightforward glacier walk, Sólheimajökull Guided Hike with Equipment offers excellent value. If you want a private, personalized highland adventure, the Thórsmörk tour provides tailored experiences for small groups.
Those craving a challenging volcanic trek should consider the Hengill Day Trek with Hot Spring. Geothermal explorers will enjoy the Hverabotn hike. For a smaller, more intimate glacier experience, the Sólheimajökull Glacier Hike Adventure is perfect.
When booking, consider the duration and difficulty of each tour. Spring and summer are ideal for most tours, but winter hikes require extra gear and experience. Always check availability early, especially for popular glacier adventures.
Final Thoughts
Southern Iceland offers a remarkable range of hiking and trekking options, from ice caves to volcano hikes. If you’re after a classic glacier walk, the Sólheimajökull Guided Hike with Equipment delivers reliable thrill and stunning views. For those looking for a private, full-day adventure, the Thórsmörk trip offers tailored exploration of some of Iceland’s most dramatic scenery.
Active travelers and experienced hikers might prefer the challenging Hengill Day Trek, while geothermal enthusiasts will enjoy the Hverabotn hike. No matter your choice, booking early ensures you secure your spot in these popular adventures. Get ready to strap on your boots and experience the raw beauty of Southern Iceland firsthand.