Lónsöræfi

Lónsöræfi is a large, barely visited wilderness area in southeast Iceland, wedged between the Vatnajökull ice cap and the coast near Lón fjord. The landscape is strikingly varied — multi-coloured rhyolite mountains, deep glacial river gorges, glacier tongues, and open highland valleys combine to create one of Iceland’s most dramatic but least-known natural areas.

Several challenging hiking routes traverse the area, including the classic 4-day Lónsöræfi trail from Skálanes to Snæfell or Stafafell, considered one of Iceland’s finest and most demanding wilderness treks. The routes involve river crossings, steep terrain, and complete self-sufficiency — this is an area for experienced, well-prepared hikers.

Lónsöræfi is accessed from Route 1 near Lón fjord in southeast Iceland, roughly 100 km west of Höfn. The reserve is partially within Vatnajökull National Park. Day hikes from Stafafell farm are possible for less ambitious visitors. A mountain hut system exists but must be pre-booked. Visit June to September for the best conditions; river levels are highest in July during glacier melt.