Venture deep into Iceland's remote southern Highlands on this three-day trekking adventure through some of the country's most surreal and untouched landscapes. Discover the geothermal wonderland of Landmannalaugar, the hidden Grænihryggur (Emerald Ridge), and the towering Háifoss waterfall, recently featured in the final season of Stranger Things. Travel in a small group of up to 16 guests, led by an experienced English-speaking trekking guide, and stay two nights in cozy traditional mountain huts surrounded by Iceland's wild beauty.
Your journey begins in Reykjavík with a scenic drive past lava fields and views of the mighty Hekla volcano. Upon arrival in Landmannalaugar, settle into your hut before tackling the Laugahringur loop, where you'll cross the black Laugahraun lava field, climb the steaming, mineral-streaked slopes of Brennisteinsalda, and descend into the green-and-turquoise Grænagil canyon. Cap the day off with a relaxing soak in a natural geothermal hot spring.
Day two is dedicated to the centerpiece of the tour: a full-day hike to Grænihryggur in the Fjallabak Nature Reserve. This otherworldly ridge glows bright green against jet-black sands, cobalt crater lakes, and rainbow-hued rhyolite mountains, an unforgettable sight for hikers and photographers alike. Return to Landmannalaugar for another hot spring soak and a hearty hut dinner.
On the final day, journey back to Reykjavík via scenic F-roads with stops at the spectacular Ljótipollur crater lake, the multi-tiered Sigöldufoss waterfall, the dramatic 122-meter Háifoss canyon, the lush Gjáin valley, and the basalt-framed Hjálparfoss double waterfall.
Round-trip transportation from Reykjavík, hut accommodation, all meals from lunch on day 1 to lunch on day 3, and necessary safety equipment are included. Optional gear rentals are available, including waterproof jackets and pants, hiking boots, trekking poles, and sleeping bags.
This moderate-level trek is suitable for travelers aged 10 and up with a reasonable level of fitness. Expect daily hiking distances ranging from 4.5 to 18 kilometers across varied terrain. Operating from June through September, this is a rare chance to experience Iceland's Highlands far from the crowds, where every step reveals colors, contrasts, and quiet wonder you won't find anywhere else on Earth.
