Highland Tours

Best Highland Tours in Iceland

Embark on an adventure with Iceland's largest selection of highland tours. Access remote beauty with super jeep excursions, trekking ventures, and more.
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Travelling the Highlands in Iceland

Iceland is a land of beauty, with rugged landscapes and natural wonders. The country's coastal areas are renowned for their stunning vistas and attractions like the Golden Circle sightseeing route and the Blue Lagoon geothermal spa.

However, the Highlands offer a glimpse into the untouched wilderness of this Nordic island nation. Highlands tours in Iceland allow adventurers to explore one of the most remote regions in Iceland.

In the country's center, the Icelandic Highlands have vast expanses of lava fields, glaciers, geothermal hot springs, and wild rivers. This region remains uninhabited mainly and inaccessible for most of the year due to harsh weather conditions.

However, during the summer months, when the snow and ice recede, the Highlands come alive with color, revealing an otherworldly landscape.

One of the most popular routes for Highlands tours is the Fjallabak Nature Reserve, which translates to "Behind the Mountains."

Here, visitors can embark on multi-day treks, 4x4 adventures, and guided tours to witness some of Iceland's most iconic natural wonders, including the Landmannalaugar geothermal area, the cascading waterfalls of Haifoss and Hjalparfoss, and the Thorsmork valley.

As you traverse the Highlands, you'll encounter geothermal hot springs where you can take a soothing dip, witness the power of glacial rivers carving through volcanic terrain, and marvel at the hues of rhyolite mountains.

The Highlands are also a haven for birdwatchers and wildlife enthusiasts, with opportunities to spot Arctic foxes, reindeer, and various bird species.

Venturing into the Highlands requires careful planning and preparation, as the region's weather can be unpredictable and the terrain challenging.

Many travelers opt to join organized tours led by experienced guides who can navigate the rugged terrain and provide insight into this unique landscape's geology, history, and folklore.

Highlands tours in Iceland offer a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to explore a remote wilderness. Whether you're a nature lover, a photographer, or an adventurer, the Icelandic Highlands promises an unforgettable journey into the heart of the land of fire and ice.

Frequently asked questions

What is the best Highlands tour in Iceland?

One of the top Highlands tours in Iceland includes a super jeep tour of Landmannalaugar with transport from Reykjavik. This package has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from over 110 travelers and costs around 324 USD.

Another of the best Highlands tours is this summer vacation package tour of the best attractions in Iceland. This package has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from over 60 travelers and costs about 1,651 USD.

Another highly-rated Highlands tour is a super jeep tour with transfer from the South Coast or Reykjavik. This package has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from over 40 travelers and costs approximately 282 USD.

Is it worth visiting the Highlands in Iceland?

Visiting the Highlands in Iceland is worth it for those seeking unspoiled natural beauty and adventure. This remote region offers an untouched landscape of geothermal wonders, cascading waterfalls, and colorful mountains.

While the harsh conditions can be challenging, guided tours provide safe access to this wild terrain. Seeing the Highlands' stark contrasts and rare wildlife is a unique experience.

The opportunity to soak in geothermal hot springs surrounded by breathtaking vistas is an unforgettable highlight. Exploring Iceland's Highlands is a rewarding and awe-inspiring adventure for nature enthusiasts and adventurers alike.

What is the cheapest Highlands tour in Iceland?

The cheapest Highlands tour in Iceland is a horse riding wilderness tour in the East Iceland countryside. This excursion costs around 110 USD per person. The tour lasts three hours and gives you the opportunity to meet the friendly Icelandic horse.

One of the other cheapest tours of the Highlands is an ice cave and glacier tour in a monster truck. The excursion costs about 139 USD.

Alternatively, this affordable Landmannalaugar & Valley of Tears Highland adventure tour takes you to some of the most incredible sights in the area. This exciting excursion costs about 183 USD.

What should I bring on a Highlands tour in Iceland?

Essentials include warm, waterproof clothing, sturdy hiking boots, a good rain jacket, food, and water. Specific tours may have additional requirements, so check the individual tour page for more information.

Are Highlands tours in Iceland suitable for all travelers?

Some Highlands tours can be physically demanding and require a degree of fitness and mobility. It's essential to choose a tour that matches your level of physical activity.

Check the individual tour page to see its difficulty level.

Are guided tours necessary for exploring the Highlands?

While some experienced travelers may explore the Highlands independently, guided tours are highly recommended for safety, navigation, and to gain insights into the region's geology and history.

Can I go on a Highland tour in the winter?

Highland tours in the winter are generally not recommended for inexperienced travelers due to the extreme weather conditions and challenging road access.

Winter tours are typically limited to experienced adventurers with proper equipment.

Are Highland tours suitable for families with children?

Highland tours vary in difficulty. Some are suitable for families with children, while others may be more challenging. It's essential to choose a tour that matches the age and capabilities of your children.

This airplane tour over Landmannalaugar and the Highlands from Skaftafell, this private Highland super jeep tour to Askja Caldera, and this summer self-drive tour of Iceland are all suitable for families.

What are the Icelandic Highlands?

The Icelandic Highlands are a vast, uninhabited region in the interior of Iceland, known for its rugged and otherworldly landscapes, including geothermal areas, glaciers, and volcanic terrain.

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

The most popular attractions are the Landmannalaugar geothermal area, Thorsmork Valley, and Kerlingarfjoll mountain resort.

What is there to do in the Icelandic Highlands?

The Highlands is a haven for hiking, mountain climbing, and sightseeing. It is also the most inaccessible and remote part of Iceland, as no permanent human settlements exist in the Highlands.

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

Usually, the Highlands are accessible from June until August, when Iceland is at its warmest. During the winter, the Highlands become very dangerous for traveling because of extreme colds and frequent snowstorms.

What are the most popular hiking trails in the Highlands of Iceland?

The most popular day hikes are in Landmannalaugar. Fimmvorduhals Pass, from Thorsmork to Skogar, is a popular trail.

The Laugavegur hiking trail, from Thorsmork to Landmannalaugar, is the most popular multi-day hike.

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

You will need a four-wheel-drive, but specific routes are only accessible by super jeep. The only exception is Kjolur Highland Road, but this route is only suitable for four-wheel cars and jeeps.

Is there accommodation in the Highlands?

Accommodation in the Highlands is mainly mountain huts. The exception is the Kerlingarfjoll Mountain Resort. Accommodation is sparse in the highlands, so we recommend booking in advance.

Are there any campsites in the Highlands of Iceland?

Yes, there are many designated camping areas in the Highlands. Please note that all camping must take place on designated sites. Therefore, planning your route in advance is a good idea.

Logging your travel plan is also recommended for safety purposes.

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 has extreme colds and snowstorms during the winter, making it inhabitable.

Can I see the northern lights in the Highlands?

Yes, the Highlands can be an excellent location for northern lights viewing during winter when access is possible. This scenic super jeep tour of Thorsmork with hiking and BBQ and this northern lights winter trip with ice caving offer opportunities to hunt for the aurora borealis.

Are there wildlife viewing opportunities in the Highlands?

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

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

Dress in layers, carry extra clothing and be prepared for sudden weather changes. Check weather forecasts and road conditions before your trip.

Are there age restrictions for Highlands tours?

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

Can I book Highland tours in advance, or can I join one on short notice?

It's advisable to book Highland tours 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.

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. However, always check local conditions and safety guidelines, as some hot springs may be too hot for bathing.
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