The Volcanic Trails

Guide during the trek (until noon on day 5)

Food for 5 days (from lunch day 1 to lunch day 5) 

Sleeping bag accommodation in dormitory (sleeping bags not included) for 4 nights

Transfer from Reykjavík to Sveinstindur and from Strútur to Reykjavík 

Cooking gear and transfer of luggage.

Boots and Clothing:

• Sturdy Hiking Boots – waterproof with good ankle support.
• Long sleeve shirt (thermal underwear) – Wool or synthetic.
• T-shirt (thermal underwear) – Wool or synthetic.
• Light wool or fleece sweater (2nd layer).
• Trousers – Strong and light material that dries quickly e.g. soft-shell.
• Jacket with a good hood – windproof, waterproof and breathable.
• Rain trousers – windproof, waterproof and breathable. Please note that full raingear is mandatory in Iceland.
• Gloves
• Socks – Wool or synthetic. Two or three pairs.
• Warm hat.
• Other gear:
• A duffel bag for the transport of your overnight gear between huts. Please avoid bringing a suitcase! (not necessary for IMG35-Þórsmörk-Skógar).
• Backpack for extra clothes and food during the day. 25 – 40L (1500 – 2500 cu in)  (For IMG35- Þórsmörk- Skógar 30-45L (1850-2750 cu in)
• River shoes – Walking sandals or old running shoes with a good grip are a good choice, along with a pair of warm socks or neoprene socks. Open sandals or flip-flops will not do the job. (not necessary for IMG35-Þórsmörk-Skógar).
• Light Sleeping bag. (For IMG35 Þórsmörk-Skógar only: only sleeping bag liner is needed as a basic sleeping bag is stored in the huts so you will not need ot carry a sleeping bag).
• Towel – light weight and packable.
• Sunglasses & sun protection.
• Water container – thermos flask or water bottle 0,5 – 1L.
• Headlamp for reading and getting around the hut.
• Casual clothes / change of clothes for wearing in the hut.
• Personal first aid kit – including blister care.
• Prescription medication and other personal health items.
• Toiletries; Toothbrush, toothpaste etc.

Optional gear:

• Walking pole(s).
• Gaiters
• Neoprene socks – highly recommended for river crossings.
• Pen knife.
• Earplugs
• Sun/rain Hat or a Cap. Shorts
• Thermal mat (for lunch breaks).
• Puffy jacket (e.g. Primaloft or down)
• Camera, spare batteries.
• Dry-bags for electronics and extra clothing.
• Slippers for indoor use.
• Aperitif or other heart-warming spirits.

• Reykjavík – Sveinstindur

  The group meets at 07:30am in the BSI Central Bus Terminal where your designated guide will warmly welcome you. Our journey begins with transportation along highland tracks, passing the majestic volcano Hekla and Fjallabak Nature Reserve. We drive through Landmannalaugar area with its multicolour mountains heading towards the captivating Mt Sveinstindur, nestled by the picturesque lake Langisjór—one of Iceland’s most stunning natural wonders.

  As we ascend the peak, you’ll be treated to awe-inspiring views that stretch over the mountainous terrain and extend all the way to the magnificent Vatnajökull glacier. Following this exhilarating climb, our descent leads us to a traditional hut on the opposite side. This rustic abode offers a genuine back-to-nature experience.

  • Distance: 6 km (4 mi)
  • Ascent/Descent: 605 m (1985 ft) /520 m (1706 ft)
• Sveinstindur – Skaftá – Skælingar

  Tracing the course of the Skaftá River, the trail advances alongside exhilarating rapids and picturesque waterfalls, ultimately guiding you to the captivating and modestly sized Hvanngil Canyon. The terrain in this region is undeniably volcanic, characterized by striking contrasts of obsidian lava, vibrant green moss, and an array of distinct rock formations.

  As day turns into evening, you find yourself at the enchanting Skælingar area—an age-old lava forest nestled near the Skaftá riverbed. Here, you’ll discover a rustic hut and outhouse facilities, embracing the raw beauty of nature allowing you to immerse yourself fully in the authentic wilderness experience.

  • Distance: 18 km (10 – 11 mi)
  • Walking time: 6 – 8 hrs
  • Accent/Descent: 350 m (1152 ft) / 525 m (1722 ft)
• Skælingar – Eldgjá – Álftavötn

  Once we’ve wrapped up our morning preparations, we embark on our day’s hiking adventure, set to explore the awe-inspiring Canyon of Fire—Eldgjá. The journey entails a gentle descent into the canyon, allowing ample time to revel in the mesmerizing beauty and abundant wonders of this extraordinary location. Our path then leads us towards the picturesque lakes of Álftavötn, traversing through lush green hills while following the meandering river Syðri Ófæra.

  As we reach Álftavötn, a haven of natural splendour, we arrive at a quaint, traditional hut that will serve as our abode for the night. The tranquillity that envelopes this magical locale is nothing short of astonishing, providing an ideal sanctuary to replenish our spirits.

  • Distance: 21 km (13 mi)
  • Walking time: 7- 9 hrs
  • Ascent/Descent: 350 m (1150 ft)
• Álftavötn – Strútur

  Today, our journey unfolds beside the enchanting Syðri Ófæra river, traversing the awe-inspiring Eldgjá Canyon of Fire once more. The scenery metamorphoses from vibrant green meadows to dark sands adorned with vibrant streaks of bright green moss. As we advance, we encounter the alluring Strútslaug natural pool, a serene oasis following our gentle river crossing at Hólmsá.

  After a delightful soak, allowing the warmth to rejuvenate our spirits, we conclude today’s expedition with a leisurely walk to the inviting Strútur hut, our haven for the night. This cozy abode offers modern amenities, including comfortable lodging, convenient WC facilities, and refreshing showers to make our stay truly comfortable and rejuvenating.

  • Distance: 24 km (15 mi)
  • Walking time: 8 hrs.
  • Ascent/Descent: 300 m (984 ft)
• Strútur – Reykjavík

  In the morning, we embrace the peacefulness of our surroundings, either indulging in a well-deserved rest or a captivating hike in the vicinity of our hut. Following our last lunch, a private 4×4 vehicle awaits to transport us across the striking Mælifellssandur—a vast expanse of black volcanic sand, adding a dramatic touch to the landscape—as we make our way back to civilization and Reykjavik.

• A 100% charge applies if canceled within 15 days of the start time.
• A 75% charge applies if canceled within 29 days of the start time.
• A 50% charge applies if canceled within 59 days of the start time.
• A 15% charge applies if canceled within 365 days of the start time.