Trade the bustle of city life for three tranquil days in Iceland’s untouched Highlands. Wander among steaming hot springs, discover hidden valleys, and take in the dazzling greens of the Emerald Ridge. Each night, relax in traditional mountain huts — a trek designed for explorers seeking peace, beauty, and adventure in nature’s purest form.
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This three-day adventure plunges you into Iceland’s wild heart—the Highlands and Landmannalaugar. The journey begins with sweeping views of Hekla volcano and leads to the region’s iconic hot springs. Along the way, lava fields and rainbow-colored mountains weave a path toward geothermal marvels and the emerald ridges of Grænihryggur. The expedition concludes with a scenic return to Reykjavík, stopping at the majestic Háifoss waterfall, the enchanting fairytale valley of Gjáin, and the twin cascades of Hjálparfoss.
You’ll start in Reykjavík, where a bus will pick you up and take you toward Iceland’s untamed Highlands. The road winds through wild mountain passes, revealing volcanic views of Hekla, one of the country’s most active volcanoes.
By midday, you’ll come to Landmannalaugar—a geothermal gem cradled by shimmering rhyolite mountains, the crown of the Highlands. You‘ll leave your things at a mountain hut and fill up on lunch before starting one of the more iconic hiking trails in the area—Laugahringur loop.
This trail circles the Laugahraun lava field, a dark, twisted expanse forged by a 15th-century eruption. From there, the path climbs the colorful slopes of Brennisteinsalda, known as the “Sulfur Wave” for its striking reds, oranges, and greens. The route then descends into Grænagil canyon, or “Green Gorge,” where emerald hues glow beneath looming black cliffs.
By late afternoon, you’ll return to your hut and sink into the soothing hot springs of Landmannalaugar—the perfect reward after a day on the trail. Dinner follows, and as the Highlands quiet under the evening sky, you’ll unwind and rest up for the adventures ahead.
Distance: ~4.5–6 km (2.8–3.7 mi)
Duration: 2–3 hours
Elevation gain: ~200–300 m (656–984 ft)
As morning breaks, a steaming cup of coffee and a hearty breakfast fuel you for the Grænihryggur hike ahead. The name translates to “green ridge,” a fitting clue to the vibrant landscape that awaits.
Deep within the Fjallabak Nature Reserve, the ridge lies hidden among Iceland’s most otherworldly terrain. After a drive to the trailhead, the scene opens up before you—emerald ridges rising from black sand deserts, mirrored by crystal-blue lakes. You’ll pause here to savor both the view and a packed lunch in one of Iceland’s most striking natural settings.
As the afternoon light softens, you’ll return to camp and sink into comfort. Dip into a steaming hot spring, or simply sit back and take in the vast Highland horizon—the perfect ending to another unforgettable day.
Distance: 15–18 km (9–11 mi)
Duration: 7–8 hours
Elevation gain: 800 m (2,624 ft)
Our final day begins with breakfast and a bit of packing before we set off toward Reykjavík. The last leg of the journey still delivers plenty of wonder.
Our first stop lies on the edge of the Fjallabak Nature Reserve, near Ljótipollur Lake. Despite its name—meaning “Ugly Puddle”—the lake is anything but: a striking basin of deep blue water framed by rust-red crater walls.
We continue along the gravel twists of Iceland’s remote F-roads, cutting through sweeping moss fields and volcanic plains. Soon, Sigöldufoss bids us farewell with its delicate, veil-like cascades spilling over black lava cliffs. Then comes Háifoss, one of Iceland’s tallest waterfalls, plunging 122 m (400 ft) into a dramatic canyon. Your guide will lead you to the best viewpoints, and upon your return, enjoy lunch and light conversation with fellow travelers.
Crossing a bridge and leaving the Highlands behind, we pause at Gjáin, a hidden oasis of moss-covered walls, clear pools, and miniature waterfalls set against a volcanic backdrop. The final stop, Hjálparfoss, is the perfect closing note—twin waterfalls framed by striking basalt formations.
As the road winds back to Reykjavík, the evening sky glows in shades of red and gold—a fitting finale to three unforgettable days in Iceland’s wild heart.
Distance: 4 km (2.5 mi)
Duration: 1.5–2 hours
Elevation gain: 170 m (557 ft)
Meeting points and times in Reykjavik:
Between 7:00 - 7:30 a.m.:
- Reykjavik's City Hall (Ráðhúsið) on Vonarstræti
- Hallgrímskirkja Church
- Reykjavik Campsite
Meeting points outside of Reykjavik:
8:15 a.m. - Selfoss N1 gas station
9:00 a.m. - Hella Bus Terminal
