Wilderness Center

The Wilderness Center (Óbyggðasetur) at Þórsmörk in the East Iceland highlands is unlike any other attraction in the country. Built on a century-old sheep farm at the edge of the uninhabited interior, it preserves a collection of original turf-roofed farm buildings while offering guided programs that immerse visitors in the skills and routines of traditional highland farming — herding, horse packing, wool working, and wilderness navigation.

The surrounding landscape is extraordinary: the farm sits at the threshold of the great uninhabited interior, where glaciers, rivers, and volcanic deserts stretch for hundreds of kilometres. Guided multi-day horseback treks into this wilderness are one of the centre’s signature experiences, drawing adventurous travellers from around the world.

The Wilderness Center is located in the Fljótsdalshérað district, reachable via Route 910 from Egilsstaðir (approximately 100 km, requiring a sturdy vehicle; F-road conditions in summer). It is open from late May to September. Accommodation in turf buildings is available on-site.