Iceland Hidden Trails of Fjallabak and Vatnajokull

If you’re dreaming of wandering through volcanic deserts, lush green highlands, and glacier-fed lakes, this 10-day Iceland tour from Found Expeditions might just be what you’re looking for. It’s a journey designed for those who want more than the usual tourist trail — it promises quiet, untouched landscapes, mountain huts, and a real sense of adventure.

What we love about this experience? First, the off-the-beaten-path nature of the trek, taking you through places few travelers get to see. Second, the chance to stay in clean, well-managed mountain huts, which give a cozy sense of wilderness without sacrificing comfort. But a potential caveat? It’s a physically demanding trip, perfect for those with at least a moderate level of fitness.

This tour is tailored for travelers who crave authentic, immersive experiences — those willing to walk multiple days through rugged terrain and enjoy spectacular views away from crowds. If you’re hoping for a seamless, guided adventure in Iceland’s wild highlands with the company of local experts, this tour might suit you perfectly.

Key Points

• Remote Icelandic landscapes: Trek through less-visited highland areas, including Fjallabak Nature Reserve and Vatnajökull National Park.
• Authentic highland experience: Stay in mountain huts, experience geothermal hot springs, volcanic lava fields, and glacier-fed lakes.
• Physical challenge: Moderate fitness is required, with several days of trekking through rugged terrain.
• Cultural insights: Local guides enhance the trip with storytelling and knowledge of Icelandic nature and culture.
• Value for the price: For over $6,500, travelers get private transportation, all meals, and a fully guided adventure in a pristine environment.
• Unforgettable views: Climb to panoramic viewpoints like Peak Sveinstindur for breathtaking vistas.

An In-Depth Look at the Iceland Hidden Trails Tour

First Impressions and Overall Value

At a glance, the Iceland Hidden Trails of Fjallabak and Vatnajökull promises a comprehensive journey into Iceland’s lesser-seen landscapes. The 10-day itinerary balances active trekking with moments of awe-inspiring scenery, making it ideal for travelers seeking an immersive wilderness experience. The price tag of $6,592.40 per person may seem steep, but it factors in private transportation, all meals, and expert guidance — essentials for a trip that takes you deep into Iceland’s highlands.

The tour’s structure indicates a focus on authentic encounters, with stays in mountain huts, visits to geothermal spots, and hikes over volcanic deserts and canyon landscapes. With a maximum of 14 travelers, this small-group setup ensures personalized attention and a more intimate connection to the environment.

The Itinerary: A Day-by-Day Breakdown

Day 1 — Arrival in Reykjavík:
Expect a smooth start with pickup and hotel check-in. The tour begins with a briefing, setting the tone for the adventure ahead. Reykjavík’s charm kicks in here, and it’s a good chance to get excited for the remote wilderness.

Day 2 — Golden Circle & Thingvellir National Park:
A classic Icelandic introduction, but with a twist. Visiting Thingvellir, a UNESCO site, offers a fascinating look at tectonic plates and geology. This warm-up trek primes you for the rugged days to come.

Day 3 — Landmannalaugar to Lake Álfavatn:
The journey truly kicks off in Landmannalaugar, famous for its multi-colored rhyolite mountains and geothermal hot springs. Trekking through Laugahraun lava fields, you’ll encounter a landscape that seems almost alien — black obsidian rocks and steaming vents. The highlight? The sense of walking into an otherworldly terrain that few travelers explore.

Day 4 — Lake Álfavatn to Strútslaug Hut:
Moving deeper into the highlands, you cross the Mælifellssandur black sand desert, a place of stark beauty. Distant green hills punctuate the otherwise barren landscape, offering a wild contrast that’s both humbling and inspiring. The journey continues with scenic views and a sense of solitude.

Day 5 — Strútslaug to Álftavatnskrókur:
This day offers a mix of lush greenery and river crossings, showcasing Iceland’s varied highland terrain. Arriving at Strútslaug, a geothermally heated pool, adds a relaxing element to the demanding day.

Day 6 — Eldgjá Canyon and Arrival at Skælingar Hut:
Eldgjá Canyon is a geological marvel — the world’s largest volcanic canyon, with sheer cliffs and waterfalls. Walking through this massive volcanic fissure offers a striking reminder of Iceland’s fiery past and ongoing natural dynamism.

Day 7 — Towards Lake Langisjór:
You’ll trek to the foot of Lake Langisjór, one of Iceland’s largest and clearest lakes, fed by glaciers. The views here are expansive, with the potential to spot glaciers and snow-capped peaks in the distance.

Day 8 — Peak Sveinstindur and Panoramic Views:
The early ascent of Peak Sveinstindur rewards climbers with sweeping vistas of Lake Langisjór and surrounding highlands. This day is a highlight, combining physical effort with breathtaking scenery.

Day 9 — South Coast Highlights:
After days in the wilderness, it’s a treat to visit iconic waterfalls like Skógarfoss and Seljalandsfoss. These waterfalls are accessible, yet still stunning in their power and beauty, providing a perfect contrast to the highlands.

Day 10 — Reykjavík and Departure:
Relaxed and satisfied, you’ll enjoy a final breakfast before heading back to Iceland’s capital. You might choose to explore Reykjavík further or simply soak in the memories of your adventure.

The Experience: What Makes It Special?

Authentic High-Altitude Wilderness: Staying in well-managed mountain huts allows you to experience Iceland’s remote highlands comfortably. These huts are a highlight, often described as clean and cozy — a real treat after a day of trekking.

Uncrowded Landscapes: Unlike the heavily trafficked Golden Circle or Blue Lagoon, this tour takes you to places few travelers see. One reviewer calls it “unforgettable,” noting they “walked across Iceland’s highlands for a week without meeting anyone except a few local adventurers.”

Culinary and Cultural Touch: While the focus is on nature, included meals — breakfast, lunch, and dinner — ensure you stay energized. Local guides also enhance the trip with insights into Icelandic culture and geology, adding depth to your experience.

Physical and Scenic Balance: The trek demands a moderate fitness level, but the effort delivers in spectacular views, from volcanic deserts to glacier-fed lakes. Climbing Peak Sveinstindur is a memorable highlight, where the physical effort results in a panoramic payoff.

Weather Considerations: As with any outdoor adventure, weather plays a critical role. The tour is designed to operate from late June through September, the best months for stable weather. The company’s policy offers a full refund or alternative if canceled due to bad weather, giving some peace of mind.

What Travelers Say

While only one review is publicly available, it’s highly positive. The reviewer called the trip “unforgettable” and appreciated the well-managed mountain huts and the solitude of walking through Iceland’s highlands. The emphasis on staying in clean accommodations and experiencing Iceland’s wild side resonates strongly with those who love authentic travel.

Practical Details: Transportation, Meals, and Group Size

Transportation is private, which means you won’t be sharing rides with random strangers — a plus for comfort and flexibility. The group size is limited to 14 travelers, fostering a more personal experience and better interaction with guides.

Meals included span breakfast, lunch, and dinner, ensuring you’re well-fueled for each day’s adventures. The tour’s duration, around 10 days, balances immersion with manageability, allowing a thorough exploration without feeling rushed.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This trip is ideal for travelers with moderate physical fitness who are eager to explore Iceland beyond its famous sights. It appeals to those who enjoy trekking, mountain huts, and remote wilderness. Nature lovers craving authentic, off-the-beaten-path experiences will find this particularly rewarding.

It’s probably less suited for travelers seeking luxury or those uncomfortable with active outdoor adventures. But if you’re up for an immersive, scenic, and challenging adventure, this tour delivers a true Icelandic wilderness experience.

The Sum Up: Is It Worth It?

This 10-day journey into Iceland’s highlands offers a rare peek at untouched landscapes, volcanic deserts, and pristine lakes. The small group size and focus on authentic accommodations make it a truly immersive experience. The views from Peak Sveinstindur and the chance to stay in mountain huts in remote locations are memorable highlights.

While the cost is significant, it reflects the guided nature, meals, transport, and unique access to places few travelers experience. For those seeking a blend of adventure, scenery, and cultural insight, this tour offers excellent value. It’s best suited for active travelers eager to explore Iceland’s wild side in a responsible and comfortable way.

In essence, if you value quiet wilderness, stunning vistas, and authentic highland adventures, this tour might just be your perfect Iceland experience.

FAQ

What is the physical level required for this tour?
This trip is designed for travelers with moderate physical fitness since it involves several days of trekking over rugged terrain, including volcanic deserts, canyon crossings, and mountain climbs.

Are meals included?
Yes, breakfast, lunch, and dinner are included throughout the trip, ensuring you stay energized for the adventures each day.

Can I expect to stay in hotels during this trip?
No, the accommodations are mountain huts, which are described as very clean and well-managed. They provide a cozy, authentic highland experience and are designed to be comfortable given the remote setting.

Is transportation private or shared?
Transportation is private, meaning you won’t be sharing with large groups, enhancing comfort and flexibility.

What kind of views will I see during the hikes?
You’ll encounter volcanic landscapes, colorful lava fields, canyons, glacier-fed lakes, and panoramic mountain views, especially from Peak Sveinstindur.

What is the best time of year to take this tour?
The tour runs from late June to September, during which weather conditions are generally stable, and the midnight sun offers extended daylight hours for trekking.

If you’re ready to step off the beaten path and into Iceland’s wild highlands, this tour offers a well-rounded, authentic adventure. It combines scenic beauty, cultural insights, and physical challenge — a true treasure for those eager to discover Iceland’s hidden side.