Iceland’s Mythic Hidden Gem Beyond Laugavegur

Eldgjá Canyon Trek

Discover one of Iceland’s remote yet accessible Highland trekking routes. Hike through the dramatic landscapes of Eldgjá Canyon, shaped by lava, moss, and hidden waterfalls.

landscape along the Eldgjá Canyon trekking route

mountain Uxatindar during the Eldgjá Canyon hiking tour

waterfall on the Eldgjá Canyo trekking route

Duration:

4 days

Total hiking distance:

~45 km / 28 mi

Highest point:

– 1,092 m / 3,583 ft

Daily hiking time:

4–8 hours per day

Total ascent :

~1,300 m / 4,265 ft

Difficulty:

Moderate

Accommodation:

Remote Highland huts + Hólaskjól Highland Center

Group size:

Small group experience

Season:

Summer

Region:

Fjallabak / Vatnajökull National Park / Eldgjá canyon / Highlands of South Iceland

Introduction

Discover one of Iceland’s wildest trekking routes as you travel from the colorful rhyolite mountains of Landmannalaugar to the deep volcanic canyon of Eldgjá and the peaceful Hólaskjól Highland Center.
Over four days you’ll hike from Lake Langisjór, summit the peak Sveinstindur, explore the sculpture-like lava formations of Skælingar, and walk along the mighty Eldgjá fissure with views of the waterfall Ófærufoss. This is a true off-the-beaten-path Highland trek with remote huts, dramatic geology, and vast horizons inside and around Vatnajökull National Park.

The tour is led by a local guide. This is a supported trekking tour with luggage transported between huts, and quality local food included. Along the way, we visit areas known mostly to local farmers, stay in traditional shepherds’ cabins, and experience the history, culture, and breathtaking landscapes of Iceland’s remote interior.

Price From

Currency Final payment is charged in ISK. Converted prices are for reference only.

Per person · Small group tour

Free cancellation (see tour-specific policy)

Easy booking with instant confirmation

Travel & medical insurance suggested

Operated by licensed local guides

No hidden fees · Small groups only

Got questions or need a private booking?

Seasonal availability · Book early

Tour Itinerary

Reykjavík • Landmannalaugar • Langisjór • Sveinstindur • Skaftá Hut

Pickup in Reykjavík and drive into the Highlands toward Landmannalaugar, a geothermal area famous for its colorful rhyolite mountains and as the starting point of the Laugavegur Trail. We have a short stop here to look around and, if conditions allow, take a brief warm-up walk and lunch break.

From Landmannalaugar we continue along the F208 Highland track toward Lake Langisjór. At the southern end of the lake, we begin our first main hike: the ascent of Sveinstindur. The climb is steady but rewarding, with far-reaching views over Langisjór, Fögrufjöll and, in clear weather, several of Iceland’s glaciers.

After enjoying the summit panorama, we descend and follow a trail toward a remote hut by the Skaftá river, where we spend our first night in the Highlands.

Distance & elevation (approx.):

Hiking distance: 8 km / 5 mi
Ascent: 600 m / 2,000 ft
Descent: 600 m / 2,000 ft

Skaftá Valley • Hvanngil • Skælingar Lava Area

After breakfast in the hut, we prepare our lunch packs and start trekking along the banks of the Skaftá river. The route takes us through the scenic Hvanngil area, with canyons, small waterfalls, and changing views of the surrounding Highlands.

By afternoon we reach Skælingar, a remarkable lava landscape created by the Laki eruption (1783–84). Here we find an old mustering hut once used during autumn sheep round-ups, surrounded by twisted lava formations and soft moss. This “lava forest” gives Skælingar an almost otherworldly atmosphere. We overnight in the Skælingar hut.

Distance & elevation (approx.):

Hiking distance: 16 km / 10 mi
Ascent: 250 m / 820 ft
Descent: 250 m / 820 ft

Skælingar • Gjátindur • Eldgjá Canyon • Hólaskjól

Today we head toward the prominent mountain Gjátindur. A steady climb brings us to superb views over the Highlands and the huge Eldgjá fissure, a volcanic canyon about 70 km long, formed by a major eruption in 934 AD.

From the Gjátindur area we descend toward Eldgjá, spending time near the famous waterfall Ófærufoss, where a multi-tiered cascade drops into the canyon floor. The trail then continues toward Hólaskjól Highland Center, where we enjoy a more comfortable hut with showers and a cozy common area for our final night on the trek.

Distance & elevation (approx.):

Hiking distance: 18 km / 11 mi
Ascent: 350 m / 1,150 ft
Descent: 350 m / 1,150 ft

Hidden Waterfall Walk • South Coast • Reykjavík

In the morning, we take a relaxed walk from Hólaskjól to a nearby hidden waterfall – a last quiet moment in the Highlands before heading back to the lowlands.

After the walk, we drive out to Route 1 on the South Coast. The day includes a lunch stop in Vík (with the option to visit the Lava Show), and visits to the Black Sand Beach and Seljalandsfoss waterfall before returning to Reykjavík in the evening.

Distance & elevation (approx.):

Hiking distance: 3 km / 2 mi (easy walk near Hólaskjól)
Ascent: 100 m / 330 ft
Descent: 100 m / 330 ft

Good to know

Season & Weather

Highlands open only in summer once snow melts (usually late June).
Weather can change quickly — expect wind, sun, and showers in one day.
Average temperatures: 5–15°C (41–59°F).

Trail Conditions

Mix of gravel paths, volcanic sand, lava formations, river valleys.
No technical climbing, but good fitness is recommended.
River crossings may occur depending on conditions.

Luggage & Packing

You carry only a daypack with water, snacks, clothing layers.
Main luggage is transported by 4×4 vehicle between huts.
Bring waterproof boots and layered clothing.

Huts

Basic but cozy mountain huts: mattresses, shared rooms, toilets.
Showers only available at Hólaskjól on the last night.
Electricity: limited — bring a power bank.

Safety

ICETREK guides are local people familiar to the area and trained in navigation, weather assessment, and first aid and leading groups on treks and expeditions.
We adjust routes based on conditions for optimal safety.

Included

Professional local ICETREK guide
Transportation from/to Reykjavík in 4×4 Highland vehicle
Mountain hut accommodation (3 nights)
All meals during the trek (breakfast, packed lunch, dinner)
Luggage transfer between huts
Safety equipment + emergency communication
Trekking poles (optional)
Entrance to Vík Lava Show (optional depending on itinerary)

Not Included

Personal hiking gear & clothing
Sleeping bag
Alcohol or drinks not listed
Travel insurance
Accommodation in Reykjavík before/after the tour

Frequently Asked Questions

How difficult is the Eldgjá Canyon Trek?

The Eldgjá Canyon Trek is considered easy to moderate. It features steady hiking days on mostly open terrain and is well suited for active travelers with a reasonable level of fitness.

Do I need prior trekking experience?

Previous multi-day or long-distance hiking experience is helpful but not required. Good general fitness, balance, and comfort hiking for several hours a day are sufficient for most participants.

Where do we sleep during the trek?

Accommodation is in mountain huts, shared dormitory-style. Huts are simple but comfortable, offering shelter, mattresses, and basic facilities.

Are meals included?

Breakfast and dinner are typically included, along with packed lunches for trekking days. Dietary requirements should be communicated in advance.

What will I carry during the trek?

You hike with a daypack only. Main luggage is transported from hut to hut, allowing you to carry just daily essentials such as water, snacks, extra layers, and rain gear.

What is the best time of year to do the Eldgjá Canyon Trek?

The trekking season runs from late June to early September, when the trail is accessible and conditions are generally stable.

What happens if the weather is bad?

Weather in the Highlands can change quickly. Our guides adjust the pace or plan as needed, always prioritizing safety.

Is travel insurance required?

Yes. Travel and medical insurance is strongly recommended for all participants.

Is This Trek Right for Me?

What level of fitness do I need?

You should have a solid, moderate level of fitness, capable of hiking 4 consecutive days, for 5–9 hours per day, covering approximately 12–15 km (7–9 miles) daily.

Is the trek technically difficult?

The route is not technical, but it does involve varied terrain. Expect some steeper sections, uneven volcanic ground, sand, mud, occasional snow patches, and open areas typical of Iceland’s Highlands.

How important is endurance versus speed?

Endurance is far more important than speed. The ability to hike comfortably over multiple consecutive days matters more than moving fast on any single day.

How heavy is the pack I need to carry?

You carry a daypack only. Your main luggage is transported between huts, making daily hiking more comfortable.

Are there river crossings?

Yes. You will cross cold, unbridged rivers on foot, which is a normal part of the Eldgja Canyon experience.

How should I train for this trek?

Recommended preparation includes long hikes to build endurance, hill or stair training, hiking with a lightly loaded pack, and basic strength training for legs, core, and back.

How challenging is the weather?

Conditions can change rapidly, even in summer. You should be prepared for wind, rain, cold temperatures, and mentally ready for variable weather.

Why is the trek done over four days?

While some complete the route faster, four days is the recommended and most comfortable pace, allowing time to recover and fully enjoy the landscape.

Pickup Places

We pickup and drop of at hotels and bus stops in Reykjavík. Pickup and drop of place is chosen from a list when the tour is booked.

information about pickup and drop of can be seen here: Pickup & Drop off Information

What To Bring

Footwear

Robust hiking boots with ankle support
Waterproof gaiters (recommended in wet years)

Clothing System

Wool or synthetic base layers (top & bottom)
Mid-layer fleece or light wool sweater
Insulated jacket (down/synthetic, packable)
Hardshell waterproof jacket (Gore-Tex or similar)
Hardshell waterproof trousers
Softshell hiking trousers
2–3 pairs merino wool socks
Warm hat & lightweight hat
Liner gloves + windproof gloves

Technical Gear

25–35 L daypack with waist belt
Rain cover for backpack
Trekking poles (carbon/aluminum)
Sleeping bag comfort: -2°C to +5°C
Inflatable pillow (optional)
Maps/GPS (ICETREK guide carries master navigation)
10,000–20,000 mAh power bank

Safety & Hygiene

Personal medication
Blister care
Compact towel
Travel-size toiletries
Sunglasses (UV category 3+)

Adventure brochure

Download brochure with full itineraries, key info, and guide details.

Gallery

trekkers at Skafta river on Eldgjá Canyon trek

Hjálparfoss waterfall, Eldgjá Canyon trekking route

The Green Island on the Skaftá River, Eldgjá Canyon trekking route

view at peak of Uxatindar mountain on to the Eldgjá Canyon

wild arctic fox appears during the Eldgjá Canyon trekking route

prepering lunch in Sveinstindur hut, Eldgjá Canyon trekking route

Laugavegur Trek (Hut to Hut)

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5 days

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Reykjavík

Small group experience

From

ISK 355000

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5 days

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Small group experience

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