Every night could be an aurora night. Don't Miss Out
Explore the remote beauty of Iceland’s Highlands on this three-day trekking tour. Visit the Grænihryggur volcanic ridge, the Landmannalaugar geothermal area, and Háifoss waterfall, a dramatic landmark featured in the final season of Stranger Things. The route crosses vividly colored mountains and passes waterfalls that fill the air with mist, with time to unwind in natural hot springs after a full day on the trail.
The journey’s centerpiece is Grænihryggur—known as the Emerald Ridge—hidden deep within the Highlands. Spend two nights in traditional mountain huts, waking to open landscapes, fresh air, and the quiet calm of Icelandic nature.
Feel Iceland under every step!
Availability
Jun - Sept
Duration
3 days
Departs From
Reykjavik
Level
Moderate
These three fabulous days of trekking take you deep into Iceland’s southern Highlands—the geothermal Landmannalaugar and the surreal-looking Grænihryggur, known as the Emerald Ridge. Starting and ending in Reykjavík, you’ll explore the world-renowned trails of Fjallabak Nature Reserve and visit natural attractions along the way.
On the first day, you’ll discover Laugahraun lava field, climb the slopes of Brennisteinsalda, and descend into the narrow Grænagil canyon. Then, relax in the area’s natural hot springs.
Day two takes you on a full-day hike to Grænihryggur, a blue-green ridge surrounded by black sands, crater lakes, and rhyolite mountains.
The final day brings you back toward Reykjavík along scenic F-roads, with stops at Ljótipollur crater, Sigöldufoss waterfall, Háifoss canyon, Gjáin valley, and Hjálparfoss waterfall.
Throughout the journey, you’ll travel in a small group, stay in cozy mountain huts, and experience the wild beauty of Iceland far away from the crowds.
We’ll start early in Reykjavík and drive straight into the heart of the Highlands. Along the way, you’ll enjoy sweeping views of lava fields and Hekla, one of Iceland’s most active volcanoes.
By midday, we’ll reach Landmannalaugar, a geothermal oasis surrounded by rhyolite mountains, painted in red, green, and gold. After settling into our cozy mountain huts and having lunch, we’ll stretch our legs on a short hike along the Laugahringur loop.
Step across the Laugahraun lava field, a black expanse of hardened flow from an ancient eruption. Climb the steaming slopes of Brennisteinsalda, alive with red and yellow minerals. Then, as the path drops into Grænagil canyon, observe how the palette changes to green and turquoise.
We’ll return in the late afternoon for a well-earned soak in Landmannalaugar’s natural hot spring, followed by dinner and a relaxed evening in the huts.
After breakfast, we’ll head out for the highlight of the trip—the Grænihryggur hike.
A short drive brings us to the Fjallabak Nature Reserve, where the landscape opens into vast valleys and volcanic ridges. This full-day trek reveals one of Iceland’s most surreal sights—bright green slopes glowing against black sands and cobalt-blue lakes. The contrast feels almost unreal. Keep your camera close.
We’ll stop for a packed lunch surrounded by this awe-inspiring scenery before heading back to Landmannalaugar. Another hot spring soak and a hearty dinner await you in the evening.
After breakfast, we’ll pack up and begin the scenic drive back to Reykjavík, visiting multiple natural attractions along the way.
Our first stop is Ljótipollur, often described as one of the world’s most beautiful crater lakes despite its name (“Ugly Puddle” in Icelandic). Its deep red slopes and bright blue water create a painting-worthy scene.
Next up is Sigöldufoss, sometimes called the “Valley of Tears.” Here, multiple turquoise waterfalls tumble over black lava cliffs. You’ll stand next to Háifoss, Iceland’s second-tallest water cascade, dropping 122 m (400 ft) into a rugged canyon. We’ll hike down to the river for the best views and stop for a packed lunch.
Before returning to Reykjavík, we’ll wander through Gjáin valley, a lush green oasis filled with tiny water streams and crystal-clear pools. You’ll see Hjálparfoss, a beautiful double waterfall framed by basalt formations.
We’ll reach Reykjavík in the early evening—tired, happy, and full of memories that will last a lifetime.
Bring personal medication or health supplies you may need.
Meeting points in Reykjavik (7:00–7:30 a.m.):
Available pick-up points: Arctic Adventures’ pick-up list.
- Reykjavik's City Hall (Ráðhúsið) on Vonarstræti
- Hallgrímskirkja Church
- Reykjavik Campsite
Meeting points outside of Reykjavik:
8:15 a.m.—Selfoss N1 gas station
9:00 a.m.—Hella Bus Terminal
*Note that it can take up to 30 minutes before the bus departs the given locations.
We do suggest that you dress accordingly. This means in layers, thermal closest to you and waterproof on top. We’ve prepared a guide to help you get ready for your adventures, check out – How to prepare for hiking and trekking in Iceland.
Prefer to travel light? We’ve got you covered. We rent waterproof pants and jackets, hiking boots, trekking poles, and sleeping bags. Choose your gear at checkout or add extras later via My Adventures after booking.
We have a maximum of 16 participants on the hut tour.
We always recommend our participants to use gaiters. The weather in Iceland can be quite wet so the trails subsequently get wet as well. They are not necessary but do help a lot and keep you from getting drenched when the rain starts to pour.
We recommend bringing hiking poles on the trek. However, they are not necessary and it depends on your personal preference. Many people prefer to have them for the river crossings and if you are used to hiking with poles then you should bring a pair with you. It’s also possible to rent a pair from us in the booking process.
Showers are found in every hut/campsite. Using the showers costs 1100 kr and can be paid for at the warden’s hut at each hut/campsite.
The WC have toilet paper and soap for washing your hands. Anything else you might need for example shampoo, bandages, towels, washcloths, nail clippers etc. you will need to bring with you.
The huts are shared. They have dormitories with single, double and twin bunk beds so do be prepared to share a room and sometimes a bed with your fellow travelers!
Our standard menu includes milk products, fish, nuts, meat, and bread. For trekkers with special dietary requirements, a supplement is required to cover the cost of purchasing additional food to accommodate these needs. This applies to those who are vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, have allergies, or have other specific dietary preferences. The supplementary fee can be paid at checkout, where customers are also asked to specify their dietary requirements, and we will arrange for the necessary food to meet those needs, ensuring the best meals for everyone.
The only information we would appreciate from you is whether you have any medical issues we should be aware of.
If you have any food restrictions, please have a look at our Special Food Extra.
No, our guides are not able to provide information on these matters, but our team will be happy to assist you. We kindly ask that you reach out to our customer care team regarding any questions or concerns.
There is no WiFi in the huts but there are spots along the trail and by the huts where you can get 3G/4G connections. However, the connection is very flaky so we don’t really count on it.
The meals are prepared by all participants, guides and the team. Although the guide is usually the leader on the project this can go all ways. We have found that this brings the group together and makes a nice, fun and cozy atmosphere. Make food and friends at the same time.
No, our guides are not able to provide information on these matters, but our team will be happy to assist you. We kindly ask that you reach out to our customer care team regarding any questions or concerns.
No, please do not wear jeans and sneakers on this tour, it’s not appropriate clothing for this type of tour. Check the list of what to bring to see what kind of clothing is appropriate.
