Iceland: 9-Day Guided Trekking Tour with Meals

If you’re dreaming of venturing into Iceland’s most untouched landscapes, this 9-day guided trekking tour offers a chance to leave the crowds behind and connect deeply with the land. Promising remote mountain huts, challenging hikes, and breathtaking scenery, it’s perfect for those craving an authentic, off-the-beaten-path experience.

What caught our eye? First, the chance to explore famous highlights like the Landmannalaugar geothermal valley and Lake Álftavatn without the tourist throngs, and second, the opportunity to spend nights in remote mountain huts and campsites—a rare treat for wilderness lovers. However, be prepared for long days of physical activity and variable weather, which can be demanding.

This tour is best suited for adventurous travelers who are physically fit and eager to explore Iceland’s highlands in an authentic way. If you’re comfortable with rugged terrain and outdoor conditions, you’ll find this journey both rewarding and awe-inspiring. Now, let’s unpack what makes this trek such a special experience—and what to expect along the way.

Key Points

• Authentic Wilderness: Travel far from tourist hotspots to discover Iceland’s raw landscapes.
• Balanced Adventure: Combines challenging hikes with cultural insights from local guides.
• Comfort in Simplicity: Spend nights in mountain huts and campsites, away from busy hotels.
• All-Inclusive Meals: Enjoy hearty meals prepared during the trek, saving the hassle of planning.
• Small Group Experience: Limited to 10 participants, ensuring personalized attention.
• Physical Readiness Needed: Expect to trek through volcanic deserts, canyons, and steep viewpoints, requiring good fitness.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Itinerary and Experience

Starting Point and Logistics

The tour begins with airport transfers, included regardless of your flight time, which simplifies your arrival. This seamless start sets a relaxed tone, letting you focus on the adventure ahead. The tour ends back at the meeting point, with transportation arranged for the return, making logistics simple for travelers.

Day 1–2: Landmannalaugar and the Geothermal Valley

The journey kicks off in Landmannalaugar, renowned for its vibrant rhyolite mountains and geothermal activity. You’ll hike through colorful volcanic terrain, exploring bubbling hot springs and possibly dipping your toes in natural pools. These early days are a perfect introduction—offering stunning landscape photography opportunities and a taste of Iceland’s geothermal energy.

Day 3–4: Mælifellssandur and Eldgjá Canyon

Next, the trek takes you across the black sands of Mælifellssandur, a surreal volcanic desert with striking black ash and moss-covered mounds. Here, the stark contrast of colors makes for an unforgettable landscape. Moving on, you’ll explore the Eldgjá Canyon, one of the largest volcanic canyons in the world, with sheer walls and fascinating geology. According to reviews, this is a highlight for many, with one stating, “The canyon was jaw-dropping—so vast and untouched.”

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Day 5–6: Panoramic Viewpoints and Remote Valleys

Climbing to Peak Sveinstindur offers sweeping vistas of glaciers, lakes, and volcanic landscapes. The ascent may be challenging but offers one of the best panoramic views in the highlands. You’ll also visit secluded valleys, avoiding tourist-heavy spots, giving you a true sense of Iceland’s wilderness.

Day 7–8: Lake Álftavatn and Hidden Hot Springs

The final stretch includes reaching Lake Álftavatn, a peaceful, glacial-fed body of water, perfect for reflection and photos. Alongside, you might discover hidden hot springs—a perfect reward after days of trekking. A reviewer mentioned that spending nights in mountain huts here felt like stepping back in time, away from modern life.

Day 9: Return and Reflection

The tour concludes with transportation back to the starting point, leaving you with a wealth of memories and photographs. Many travelers note that the authentic experience—sleeping in remote huts, surrounded by Icelandic silence—made it a truly meaningful adventure.

What’s Included and What to Consider

The tour includes guided hikes, accommodation in mountain huts, all meals, and transportation to the trek’s start and end. Meals are provided during the trek, which means you can relax and focus on the landscape rather than meal planning. The group size is small—limited to 10 participants—enhancing the experience with personal attention and camaraderie.

However, personal hiking gear isn’t provided, so packing appropriately—sturdy hiking shoes, outdoor clothing, water, and a sleeping bag—is essential. Also, given the remote locations, travelers should be comfortable with variable weather and physical activity.

The Value of This Tour

Considering the inclusion of expert local guides, accommodation, meals, and transportation, the price offers good value for an immersive experience in Iceland’s highlands. Unlike day trips or bus tours, this journey delivers a layered, physical experience with authentic cultural insights—making it worthwhile for those who truly want to connect with Iceland’s wilderness.

Real-World Perspectives

One reviewer noted, “The guides knew every corner and story behind the landscapes,” highlighting the added value of local knowledge. Others appreciated the remote setting, saying, “It felt like we had Iceland all to ourselves,” emphasizing how rare and special this level of solitude and connection can be.

Final Thoughts: Who Will Love This Tour?

This tour is ideal for adventurous spirits who enjoy physical activity and outdoor living. It suits travelers looking for more than just sightseeing—those eager to trek through volcanic deserts, sleep in mountain huts, and experience Iceland like a local.

If your idea of a vacation includes challenging hikes, stunning vistas, and quiet nights under the stars, this adventure is hard to beat. On the flip side, if you prefer comfort, hotel stays, or minimal physical exertion, this might not be the best fit.

The Sum Up

This 9-day guided trek through Iceland’s highlands offers a rare chance to step well beyond the usual tourist routes. You’ll walk through volcanic deserts, geothermal valleys, and towering canyons, all while staying in remote mountain accommodations. The experience provides a balanced mix of physical challenge, cultural insights, and breathtaking scenery—a true escape into Iceland’s wild heart.

For those craving an authentic, immersive adventure, this tour delivers in spades. It’s perfect if you’re prepared for rugged terrain and variable weather, and eager to see Iceland’s untouched beauty in its purest form. Whether you’re a seasoned trekker or a travel enthusiast ready for a serious outdoor challenge, this journey promises unforgettable moments and vistas few travelers ever get to enjoy.

FAQ

What level of fitness is required for this tour?
Given the challenging treks across volcanic deserts, canyons, and steep viewpoints, a good level of physical fitness is necessary. Expect to walk for several hours each day on uneven terrain.

Are meals included during the trek?
Yes, all meals during the tour are included, which helps simplify planning and ensures you’re fueled for each adventure.

Do I need to bring my own hiking gear?
Personal hiking gear, including outdoor clothing, hiking shoes, a sleeping bag, and water bottles, is not included. Pack appropriately for variable weather conditions.

Is this tour suitable for children or pregnant women?
No, it’s not suitable for children under 12, pregnant women, or anyone with mobility, heart, or health issues. The physical demands and remote locations require good health.

How many people will be in the group?
The tour is limited to 10 participants, ensuring a small-group experience with personalized attention from guides.

What if I want to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility to adjust your plans.

This guided trek is a golden ticket for anyone eager to experience Iceland’s rugged beauty in all its unfiltered glory. Prepare well, pack wisely, and get ready for an adventure of a lifetime.

You can check availability for your dates here: