The Volcanic Trails

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Description

Summary

Starts
Reykjavik
Duration
5 days
Languages
English
Difficulty
Hard

Description

Embark on a thrilling 5-day adventure through the breathtaking landscapes of Iceland. This multi-day tour takes you from the bustling city of Reykjavik to the serene wilderness of Landmannalaugar, Skælingar, Álftavötn, and back. Experience the majesty of the Hekla volcano, the vibrant hues of the Fjallabak Nature Reserve, the awe-inspiring Eldgjá Canyon, and the tranquil Strútslaug natural pool. Traverse alongside the Skaftá River, ascend the captivating Mt Sveinstindur, and immerse yourself in the raw beauty of Iceland's natural wonders. Stay in traditional huts, soak in natural pools, and let the tranquility of the Icelandic wilderness rejuvenate your spirit. This tour is a perfect blend of adventure, relaxation, and natural beauty, offering an unforgettable journey through one of the world's most unique landscapes.

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Included

Food is important to us. Wholesome and nourishing food makes a good trip even better. All meals and snacks whilst on the trek are included in the tour price.

All food is purchased in Reykjavik, with the emphasis on fresh products and easily prepared meals. Breakfasts will consist of muesli, porridge, bread, jam, cheese, ham, plus tea and coffee. During breakfast, snack items and sandwich materials will be made available allowing group members to make up their own packed lunches for the days trek. Sandwich materials include bread, Icelandic flatbread, pâté, salami, cheese, peanut butter, smoked salmon, and ham. Snack items include biscuits, dried fruit, nuts, chocolate, fresh fruit, and energy bars.

Your guide will prepare your evening meals but help with preparation, such as cutting vegetables or stirring pots, and doing the dishes at the end of the meal, is highly appreciated. Lack of space and facilities in the small huts makes it difficult for your guide to cook many - or complicated dishes but we try to do our best to meet vegan/vegetarian/pescatarian dietary requirements. Vegan/vegetarian/pescatarian meal plans are available upon request for a fee.

Please remember to bring your own lunch box and water bottle. The tap water in the huts is very pure and does not need to be filtered. There are also numerous streams and rivers on the way where bottles can be refilled. There are no possibilities to buy refreshments, snacks, or drinks during the trek.

vegetarian, vegan, meat

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The accommodation during the trek is simple mountain huts that were originally built for farmers to use while sheep herding in the highlands. They have since been restored, honoring the traditional building styles. Sleeping facilities are dormitories with single and double bunk beds or mattresses. In some huts, single participants might need to share a double mattress. A sleeping bag is necessary and can be rented upon request.

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Transfer to and from the Central Highlands in a modified Super Jeep is included in the cost.

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Your Qualified IMG Guide will be leading you on the hike, with English guidance.

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Map

Attractions

HeklaHekla
photo of  Hálsanefshellir Cave, a beautiful cave on a black sand beach during sunrise in Iceland.Hálsanefshellir Cave
Foss a Sidu, Skaftárhreppur, Southern Region, IcelandFoss á Síðu
Katla Ice Cave, Mýrdalshreppur, Southern Region, IcelandKatla Ice Cave
Friðland að Fjallabaki, Rangárþing ytra, Southern Region, IcelandFriðland að Fjallabaki
Laufskálavarða, Skaftárhreppur, Southern Region, IcelandLaufskálavarða

Daily Itinerary

Day 1

Day 1 – Day 1: BSI Central Bus Terminal to Landmannalaugar

Day 1: BSI Central Bus Terminal to Landmannalaugar

  • Hekla
  • Friðland að Fjallabaki
  • More

We kick off our adventure at the BSI Central Bus Terminal, where our guide will greet you. We'll journey through the highlands, passing the majestic Hekla volcano and the Fjallabak Nature Reserve. Our route takes us through the Landmannalaugar area, known for its multicolored mountains, towards the breathtaking Mt Sveinstindur, located by the picturesque Lake Langisjór. As we climb the peak, you'll be treated to panoramic views of the mountainous terrain and the magnificent Vatnajökull glacier. We'll then descend to a traditional hut on the other side for a unique back-to-nature experience.

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Day 2

Day 2 – Day 2: Landmannalaugar to Skælingar

Day 2: Landmannalaugar to Skælingar

  • Hálsanefshellir Cave
  • Foss á Síðu
  • More

Our second day begins with a hike along the Skaftá River, taking in the exhilarating rapids and picturesque waterfalls. We'll make our way to the charming Hvanngil Canyon, a region characterized by its volcanic terrain, vibrant green moss, and unique rock formations. As the day turns into evening, we'll find ourselves in the enchanting Skælingar area, an ancient lava forest near the Skaftá riverbed. Here, we'll stay in a rustic hut, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the raw beauty of nature.

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Day 3

Day 3 – Day 3: Skælingar to Álftavötn

Day 3: Skælingar to Álftavötn

  • Katla Ice Cave
  • More

On the third day, we'll set off to explore the awe-inspiring Eldgjá, also known as the Canyon of Fire. We'll descend gently into the canyon, taking time to marvel at the extraordinary beauty of this location. Our path will then lead us towards the picturesque Álftavötn Lakes, traversing through lush green hills and following the winding Syðri Ófæra river. Upon reaching Álftavötn, a haven of natural splendor, we'll settle in a quaint traditional hut for the night, enveloped by the tranquility of this magical locale.

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Day 4

Day 4 – Day 4: Álftavötn to Strútur Hut

Day 4: Álftavötn to Strútur Hut

  • Laufskálavarða
  • More

Our journey on the fourth day takes us alongside the enchanting Syðri Ófæra river, traversing the awe-inspiring Eldgjá Canyon of Fire once again. The scenery transforms from vibrant green meadows to dark sands adorned with bright green moss. We'll encounter the serene Strútslaug natural pool, a perfect spot for a refreshing soak after our gentle river crossing at Hólmsá. We'll then conclude the day with a leisurely walk to the inviting Strútur hut, our home for the night, equipped with modern amenities for a comfortable and rejuvenating stay.

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Day 5

Day 5 – Day 5: Strútur Hut to Reykjavik

  • Reykjavik - Departure day
  • More

On the final day of our adventure, we'll spend the morning soaking in the peacefulness of our surroundings. After our last lunch, a private 4x4 vehicle will transport us across the striking Mælifellssandur, a vast expanse of black volcanic sand, as we make our way back to civilization and Reykjavik.

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