Take in the magnificence of Iceland's arctic north on this unparalleled adventure. Experience its beauty up close on spectacular daily hikes that snake through the craggy highland landscape. Marvel as our experienced guides lead you from fishing hamlets to moonlike lava fields and snow-capped volcanoes, from the gaping Asbyrgi canyon to the continent's most powerful waterfall, and from a craft-beer brewery to the best ice cream in the land - while enjoying the comfort of hotels at night. And where better to rest your weary feet than soothing geothermal pools?
Hike the remote and rugged highland trails of Iceland's volcanic north, away from tourist crowds
Marvel at Iceland's natural wonders, from Mt. Hverfjall's surreal moonscape to the thundering Dettifoss waterfall
Soak your cares away in the steamy geothermal Myvatn Nature Baths, Iceland's northern Blue Lagoon
Your MT Sobek guide will greet you at the airport, where you'll hop on a bus bound for the Viking World museum. Enjoy breakfast here and immerse yourself in the ancient history and lore of this legendary land. Climb aboard the magnificent Icelander, a Viking ship built in 1996 modeled after a 9th-century Viking vessel. Then it's a 90-minute drive to tonight's hotel, where you spend the rest of the day gearing up for the upcoming adventure.
Rise and shine! Right after breakfast, continue the journey north, bound for the small fishing village of Siglufjorður. En route stop for the first hike, a moderate climb up Mælifellshnjukur (3,733'), the king of the mountains in Skagafjorður. This prominent peak showcases stellar sea and highlands views from the top. Upon arrival in tranquil Siglufjorður, settle into the beautiful waterfront hotel - built right into the old fisherman's marina - home for two nights. Enjoy an exquisite dinner prepared by the hotel restaurant's enthusiastic chefs.
Take a long walk into the heart of this mystical region. Part of the route is allegedly haunted! The hike leads up along the old horse trail from Sauðadalur Valley back to Siglufjorður - on the highest mountain road in Iceland. Begin at Hraun Farm, then climb up and over the Siglufjarðarskarð Pass. Take in the views over the fjord and out to sea, descend to the town of Skarðsdalur and enjoy a picnic lunch, then take the private bus back to the hotel. Tonight, stroll into town for dinner.
This morning, take a lovely drive into northeastern Iceland, "the edge of the Arctic." The first stop is Husavik, a quiet harbor town nestled at the foot of Mt. Husavikurfjall, surrounded by small lakes. After lunch here, head to the natural wonder of Asbyrgi, a horseshoe-shaped, steep-sided canyon divided by an 820-foot-wide rock formation known as Eyjan ("the Island"). Spot many of the region's abundant birds on a circuitous route toward Lake Astjorn, and head to thunderous Dettifoss, Iceland's greatest waterfall. Today concludes with a scenic drive to tonight's accommodations.
Start the day with a moderate hike to iconic Mt. Hverfjall, one of the largest and best-preserved circular volcanic craters in the world. The pinnacle of the hike is circumnavigating the crater rim. Descend Hverfjall through the lava-twisted towers, chimneys, tubes, and tunnels of otherworldly Dimmuborgir. After lunch, ease your body into the healing Myvatn Nature Baths, Iceland's northern Blue Lagoon. Drive to Akureyri and enjoy the afternoon to stroll around northern Iceland's capital, which sits at the head of Iceland's longest fjord.
Today summit Akureyri's guardian peak, Mt Sulur. From Akureyri it resembles a perfect cone, but upon closer inspection - as you hike to its top - it's far from conical or even symmetrical. Completing this demanding hike deserves a reward - and there is no better post-hike treat than the best ice cream in Iceland. The sweet shop Brynju uses milk, not cream, to make its legendary ice creams. This evening enjoy dinner on your own in one of Akureyri's many eateries featuring local and international flavors.
Spend the final day in the north meandering the streets of Akureyri. Take in the booming arts scene along the Arts' Alley, a stretch of former industrial buildings that now house the Akureyri Art Museum (the first Icelandic institution outside of Reykjavík to concentrate solely on visual arts), North Iceland Artists' Studios, and loads of small galleries. Then check out the Kaldi craft beer brewery, for a tour and a sampling of their suds, known locally and internationally. Take an afternoon flight back to Reykjavik and share a farewell feast.
Enjoy breakfast with the group before bidding farewell and transferring to the airport for your homebound flight.
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Download ItineraryMT Sobek's expert guides lead hikers to Mt. Hverfjall, one of the largest and best-preserved circular volcanic craters in the world.
The healing, rejuvenating sulfuric waters of the Myvatn Nature Baths offer a steaming 160F spa experience halfway through the journey.
This trip caters to hikers who relish adventure in unique lands but prefer hotel duvets to mountain huts.
Our expert guides and trip leaders are truly the key to our trips' success. Many are locals who live in-country year-round; others have made it their second home—all are passionate, enthusiastic and endlessly knowledgeable. Meet a few of the guides that might be on your trip.
Hiking along wind-eroded landscapes and lava formations, soaking in warm geothermal waters, touring fishing villages, taking in art galleries and Viking history.
Countryside hotels with spectacular views and a full spectrum of modern amenities, and a stylish, centrally located hotel in the capital.
Iceland's weather motto is "Expect Everything!" Rain is possible at any time, but be sure to have your sunglasses and shorts too!
Your trip leader will meet you outside of the customs and immigration area at the Reykjavik Keflavik International Airport (KEF) between 6:30am - 7:00am.
Unfortunately, no. Because these trips operate in the summer months, there is little to no darkness, which makes it impossible to see the Northern Lights.
Yes. The footing can be tricky at times and it always helps to have the added support and safety of trekking poles.
The food in Iceland is fresh and delicious. Expect delicious fish, local lamb and a great variety of cheeses and salads.
Thankfully, no. The climate in Iceland is too cold and dry for bugs.
No. If you would like to see Puffins, your best bet would be our "Hiking Iceland's Eastern Fjords" trip.
We offer this trip on a private basis with seasonal departure dates that offer great flexibility (pending availability). Click below to request dates and an MT Sobek Regional Specialist will be in touch to help organize your private adventure.
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