Highland Tours

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Iceland’s Best Highlands Tours and Top Attractions To Visit

The top Iceland Highlands tours offer an adventure like no other, bringing you into the heart of the country’s most untouched wilderness. With rugged landscapes, geothermal wonders, and extraordinary wildlife, the Highlands in Iceland are a dream destination for adventurers and nature enthusiasts. 

What Makes the Icelandic Highlands Unique?

The Highlands represent Iceland’s untamed interior, a vast wilderness largely uninhabited and shaped by volcanic forces. This remote region offers pristine lava fields, shimmering glaciers, geothermal springs, and roaring rivers. The dramatic environment feels otherworldly, making it a top destination for extraordinary adventure tours in Iceland.

Top 3 Must-Visit Places in the Highlands of Iceland

The Highlands are home to some of the country’s most iconic natural landmarks. These must-see attractions showcase the raw beauty of the region, with plenty of surprises for adventurous travelers:

  1. Landmannalaugar: Renowned for its colorful rhyolite mountains and geothermal pools, Landmannalaugar is a favorite for Iceland Highland tours. The hiking trails in Landmannalaugar range from easy walks to challenging treks, making it accessible for various fitness levels. 

  2. Thorsmork Valley: Surrounded by glaciers and volcanic terrain, Thorsmork offers lush greenery and striking views. Travelers often cross rivers here, so waterproof bags for your gear are a smart addition to your packing list.

  3. Kerlingarfjoll Mountain Range: A geothermal paradise, Kerlingarfjoll mountain range features steaming vents, bubbling mud pots, and vivid mineral colors. 

The Icelandic Highlands are a true wilderness, filled with vibrant landscapes and untamed beauty. From epic hikes to geothermal marvels, everything you need to know about exploring the Icelandic Highlands will help you uncover the region’s best-kept secrets.

Best Highland Super Jeep Tours

Designed for navigating the rugged F-roads, Super Jeep tours in Iceland are among the best-rated day trips to Iceland’s Highlands, and here are some of the highest-rated options:

Embark on a thrilling super jeep tour to Landmannalaugar, exploring colorful rhyolite mountains, crater lakes, and hidden geothermal hot springs. Travel off the beaten path and experience Iceland’s Highlands in a powerful 4x4 vehicle.

Explore Thorsmork valley, crossing rivers, and hiking scenic trails surrounded by glaciers and volcanic landscapes. This adventure offers breathtaking views, lush canyons, and rugged Highland terrain only accessible by 4x4.

Discover the Askja caldera and visit Viti crater as you explore Iceland’s remote volcanic Highlands. Enjoy breathtaking lunar landscapes, bubbling geothermal areas, and terrain best explored with a four-wheel-drive vehicle.

Top Iceland Highland Self-Drive Tours 

Many self-drive tours in Iceland offer the freedom to explore the Highlands at your own pace with a 4x4 rental vehicle. These are among the most unforgettable ways to explore the Highlands for independent travelers:

Drive through Iceland’s Highlands, exploring Landmannalaugar, Kaldidalur, waterfalls, glaciers, and volcanic landscapes. Experience geothermal hot springs, scenic hiking trails, and rugged mountain roads at your own pace.

Travel across South Iceland and Landmannalaugar, exploring rhyolite mountains, black sand beaches, waterfalls, and glacier lagoons. Relax in geothermal hot springs and experience Iceland’s stunning Highlands without rushing.

Embark on a road trip through Landmannalaugar’s colorful mountains, Kaldidalur’s rugged valley, and Iceland’s most famous waterfalls. Experience dramatic landscapes, geothermal pools, and highland roads, perfect for an unforgettable summer adventure.

Best Multi-Day Treks to Iceland’s Highlands

Iconic trails like the Laugavegur Trail, which connects Landmannalaugar to Thorsmork, are typical highlights of top-rated multi-day adventures and trekking tours in Iceland. If you’re exploring the Highlands on foot, these are the most popular options:

Hike Iceland’s most famous trail from Landmannalaugar to Thorsmork, crossing colorful mountains, lava fields, and geothermal landscapes. Stay in cozy huts and experience Iceland’s untouched wilderness.

Trek from Landmannalaugar to Skogar, passing Thorsmork’s lush valleys, volcanic craters, and glaciers. Experience Iceland’s dramatic landscapes on this multi-day hut-to-hut hiking adventure.

Explore Iceland’s Highlands on this 7-day trek through Landmannalaugar, Thorsmork, and Fimmvorduhals, featuring volcanic craters, glaciers, and geothermal hot springs. Stay in mountain huts for a true wilderness experience.

Top Sightseeing Flights Over Iceland’s Highlands

Airplane tours and helicopter tours over Iceland’s Highlands offer a bird’s-eye view of the vastness of lava fields, glaciers, and volcanic craters. These are some of the best ways to appreciate Iceland’s Highlands from above:

Discover the Laki craters, a stunning volcanic wonder, on a flight over lava fields, moss-covered landscapes, and remote Highlands. Learn about Iceland’s dramatic volcanic history while exploring one of its most breathtaking natural sites.

Soar above Landmannalaugar’s colorful mountains, volcanic craters, and glacier rivers on this unforgettable scenic airplane tour from Skaftafell. Enjoy breathtaking aerial views of Iceland’s Highlands.

Experience Iceland’s Highlands from above on this incredible helicopter tour, flying over glaciers, volcanic craters, and steaming geothermal areas. Enjoy a breathtaking bird’s-eye view of Iceland’s untouched wilderness.

When to Visit Iceland’s Highlands

Seasonal tours in the Icelandic Highlands run from late June to early September when snow and ice melt to reveal accessible trails. This period also coincides with the midnight sun, extending daylight hours for more exploration time. 

The Highlands bloom with vibrant moss and wildflowers during summer, creating stunning backdrops for nature enthusiasts and adventurers. Winter access is limited due to heavy snow and closed F-roads, making summer the best time to book Iceland Highlands tours. 

Best Summer Tours in Iceland’s Highlands

Summer in the Icelandic Highlands offers the best time to explore vibrant landscapes, accessible trails, and geothermal wonders. These top-rated summer tours to the Highlands cater to adventurers and nature lovers, providing unforgettable ways to experience Iceland’s raw and untamed beauty.

Explore Iceland's South Coast at your own pace on this 8-day self-drive tour, featuring breathtaking waterfalls, black sand beaches, and a journey into the stunning Highlands. This flexible itinerary lets you experience iconic attractions while immersing yourself in Iceland’s raw natural beauty.

Discover the awe-inspiring Fjadrargljufur canyon and the volcanic Lakagigar craters on this thrilling 8-hour small-group super jeep tour. It’s perfect for adventure seekers.

Travel across lava fields, rivers, and other challenging landscapes on an ATV. With breathtaking views at every turn, it’s a thrilling way to see the Highlands up close.

Top-Rated Winter Iceland Highlands Tours

Winter in the Icelandic Highlands transforms the region into a snow-covered paradise, perfect for chasing the northern lights and exploring glacier ice caves. These must-try winter tours to the Highlands offer thrilling adventures and breathtaking landscapes, ensuring a safe and unforgettable experience in Iceland’s remote wilderness.

Designed for those who want to experience Iceland’s Highlands and glacier ice caves under the glow of the northern lights, this once-in-a-lifetime winter journey is a perfect mix of thrill and wonder.

Experience the iconic Landmannalaugar and Mt. Hekla on this unforgettable 12-hour super jeep adventure. Departing from Reykjavik, this tour offers a perfect mix of hiking, geothermal wonders, and stunning Highland views.

Feel the rush of snowmobiling across pristine snowy plains in the Highlands with this adventure tour. Guided by experts, you’ll safely traverse some of the most remote and scenic areas.

How to Prepare for an Icelandic Highland Adventure

Traveling to the Highlands requires careful planning. Here are some Iceland Highlands travel tips to help you make the most of your trip:

  • Choose Guided Tours: Guided tours to the Icelandic Highlands provide expert knowledge and navigation through the challenging terrain. Experienced guides also offer insights into local geology and Icelandic folklore, adding depth to your adventure.

  • Pack Smart: Essential items include waterproof outerwear, sturdy hiking boots, and a reusable water bottle. The Highlands are known for pristine water sources, allowing you to refill directly from streams. For self-drivers, packing a tire repair kit is crucial for navigating the rocky F-roads in Iceland.

  • Check Road Conditions: F-roads, the unpaved mountain roads leading into the Highlands, require a 4x4 vehicle. Checking updates on Iceland’s Road Website ensures you’re aware of closures or weather advisories.

Frequently asked questions

What are the Icelandic Highlands?

The Icelandic Highlands are a vast, uninhabited region known for their volcanic terrain, geothermal fields, and glaciers. The Highlands tours in Iceland take you deep into this untouched wilderness, offering an unparalleled adventure for nature lovers and explorers.

What are the most popular attractions in the Highlands of Iceland?

The most popular attractions in the Icelandic Highlands are the Landmannalaugar geothermal area, Thorsmork Valley, and Kerlingarfjoll mountain range. The region is also home to some of Iceland’s largest glaciers, including Vatnajokull and Langjokull, which dominate the landscape with their massive ice caps.

What are the best Highlands tours in Iceland?

The best Highlands tours in Iceland cater to different interests and budgets. These options also stand out for their high ratings:
1. Super jeep tour of Landmannalaugar with transport from Reykjavik: Explore Landmannalaugar’s colorful mountains, crater lakes, and hot springs on the most popular super jeep adventure through Iceland’s remote Highlands. Travel off-road for an unforgettable journey into Iceland’s volcanic wilderness.
2. Summer vacation package tour of the best attractions in Iceland: Discover Iceland’s volcanoes, glaciers, waterfalls, and Highlands on this top-rated 8-day guided tour, featuring scenic hikes, hot springs, and breathtaking landscapes. Experience the country’s most iconic natural wonders in one epic trip.
3. Super jeep tour to the Southern Highlands with transfers from the South Coast or Reykjavik: Journey into the Icelandic Highlands on this best-rated super jeep tour to Landmannalaugar, visiting rhyolite mountains, lava fields, and geothermal pools. Enjoy rugged off-road travel and stunning highland scenery.

When is the best time to visit the Highlands of Iceland?

The best time to go on a tour of Iceland’s Highlands is from late June to early September, when roads and trails are accessible. During this period, the Highlands come alive with moss, wildflowers, and endless daylight. Winter visits are challenging due to harsh conditions, but some guided tours are available for experienced travelers. You can always check if roads are open or closed on the official road information website.

What are some of the top activities in the Icelandic Highlands?

The Highlands is a haven for hiking, mountain climbing, and sightseeing. Visitors can also enjoy glacier hiking, ice caving, and soaking in natural hot springs. Wildlife enthusiasts can look for Arctic foxes and migratory birds, while photographers will find endless inspiration in the vibrant landscapes of rhyolite mountains, cascading waterfalls, and sprawling lava fields. For those seeking adventure, activities like snowmobiling and Super Jeep tours offer thrilling ways to explore this remote and stunning region.

Is a guide needed for exploring the Icelandic Highlands?

While some experienced travelers may explore the Highlands independently, guided tours are highly recommended for safety, convenience, and local insights. Experienced guides ensure you navigate challenging terrain safely while sharing fascinating details about the region’s geology, history, and culture. Independent exploration is possible but not advised for first-time visitors.

What type of car do I need to reach the Icelandic Highlands?

Accessing the Highlands requires a four-wheel-drive vehicle for navigating rugged F-roads, with some specific routes accessible only by super jeep. Many Iceland Highlands tours include transportation, and super jeep tours provide access to the most challenging routes. If you plan to explore the Highlands of Iceland in summer, be sure to check road conditions on the official road information website.

What are the best hiking trails in the Highlands of Iceland?

The best hiking trails in the Icelandic Highlands are in Landmannalaugar. The most popular hiking trails in many Highlands tours in Iceland include:
1. Fimmvorduhals Pass: A stunning hike connecting Thorsmork to Skogar.
2. Laugavegur Trail: The most famous multi-day trek in Iceland, connecting the Landmannalaugar geothermal area to Thórsmörk Valley.

What are the cheapest Highlands tours in Iceland?

For a budget-friendly adventure, here are some of the most affordable Icelandic Highlands tours:
1.Horse riding wilderness tour in the East Iceland countryside: Ride a friendly Icelandic horse through the scenic Eastfjords, passing rugged mountains, peaceful valleys, and breathtaking coastal views. This affordable tour is perfect for beginners and experienced riders alike.
2. Ice cave and glacier tour in a monster truck: Explore frozen tunnels and breathtaking glacier landscapes on a budget-friendly glacier monster truck. Experience Iceland’s winter wonders up close.
3. Landmannalaugar & Valley of Tears Highland adventure tour: Discover Landmannalaugar, lava fields, and geothermal hot springs on this scenic Highlands tour offering the best value. Hike stunning trails and relax in a natural hot spring.

Is it worth booking a Highlands tour in Iceland?

Icelandic Highlands tours are absolutely worth it for anyone seeking unspoiled landscapes and unforgettable adventures. This remote region features geothermal springs, vibrant mountains, streaming waterfalls, and unique wildlife. Guided tours of Iceland’s Highlands ensure you can safely navigate the rugged terrain while enjoying stunning vistas and rare wildlife encounters. Soaking in a natural hot spring amid this wilderness is often the highlight of these tours.

Are Highlands tours in Iceland suitable for all travelers?

The Highlands tours in Iceland cater to different fitness levels, but some can be physically demanding. It's essential to choose a tour that matches your fitness and mobility. Look for difficulty ratings on tour descriptions to ensure the best experience.

Are there age restrictions for Highlands tours in Iceland?

Age restrictions for the Highlands tours in Iceland vary. Some tours may have minimum age requirements, while others are suitable for all ages. Check the individual tour page for this information.

What are the most family-friendly Highland tours in Iceland?

Various Highlands tours in Iceland cater to different types of travelers, and these are among the most family-friendly options:
1. Airplane tour over Landmannalaugar and the Highlands from Skaftafell: Fly over Landmannalaugar’s colorful mountains, volcanic craters, and geothermal hot springs on this breathtaking airplane tour from Skaftafell.
2. Private Highlands super jeep tour to Askja Caldera: Explore Askja Caldera and Víti Crater on this guided tour through Iceland’s remote Highlands, featuring lunar landscapes and geothermal wonders.
3. Summer self-drive tour of Iceland: Experience Iceland’s ultimate self-drive adventure, covering stunning waterfalls, glaciers, black sand beaches, and remote Highlands over 21 unforgettable days.

Can I go on a tour of the Icelandic Highlands in winter?

Yes, a few Icelandic Highlands tours operate in winter, such as the Thorsmork Valley super jeep tour. However, due to extreme weather, it is highly recommended that you join a guided tour with expert drivers. Proper vehicles are essential for a safe winter Highlands adventure.

Can I see the northern lights in the Highlands of Iceland?

Yes, the Icelandic Highlands can be an excellent location for northern lights viewing from September through April. Some Iceland Highlands tours that provide memorable aurora hunting experiences include the scenic super jeep tour of Thorsmork with hiking and BBQ and the northern lights winter trip with ice caving.

Can I book a tour of Iceland's Highlands in advance, or can I join one on short notice?

It's advisable to book your tour to Iceland’s Highlands in advance, especially during the peak summer season, as availability can be limited. However, last-minute bookings may be possible depending on the tour operator's availability.

What should I bring on a Highlands tour in Iceland?

Essentials for a tour of Iceland’s Highlands include warm, waterproof clothing, sturdy hiking boots, and a high-quality rain jacket. Bring food and water, as there are no shops in the Highlands. Specific tours may have additional requirements, so check the individual tour page for more information.

How should I prepare for the unpredictable weather in the Highlands?

Dress in layers, carry extra clothing, and check weather forecasts and get updates on road conditions before your tour of the Highlands in Iceland.

Can I swim in hot springs or rivers in the Highlands?

Yes, there are hot springs and rivers in the Highlands where you can enjoy a relaxing soak, and many tours offer opportunities to visit these geothermal wonders as part of their itineraries. However, always check local conditions and safety guidelines, as some hot springs may be too hot for bathing or unsafe due to shifting geothermal activity.

Are there accommodations in the Icelandic Highlands?

Accommodations in the Highlands of Iceland are limited, with options primarily including mountain huts and the Kerlingarfjöll Mountain Resort. Many multi-day Highlands tours in Iceland provide lodging as part of their packages, but booking in advance is crucial during peak travel seasons due to the region’s limited availability.

Are there any campsites in the Highlands of Iceland?

Yes, designated campsites are available in the Highlands, and camping outside these areas is prohibited. Therefore, planning your route in advance is a good idea. For safety purposes, it’s also recommended that you log your travel plan.

Are there wildlife viewing opportunities in the Icelandic Highlands?

Yes, the Highlands of Iceland are home to Arctic foxes, reindeer, and various bird species. Wildlife enthusiasts may be able to spot these creatures during their visits.

Where do I shop for food in the Icelandic Highlands?

There are no shops in the Highlands, so you must prepare all the food you need in advance. Taking more food than you think you’ll need is also a good idea so you never go hungry.

Do people live in the Highlands of Iceland?

No, there are no permanent human settlements in the Highlands of Iceland. The area commonly experiences extreme cold and snowstorms during the winter, making it uninhabitable.
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