Private Kerlingarfjöll Highlands Tour from Akureyri

Kerlingarfjöll Highlands Adventure – Exclusive Summer Tour from Akureyri

Discover the untamed beauty of Iceland’s highlands with a one-of-a-kind summer tour to Kerlingarfjöll! This adventurous day trip from Akureyri takes you deep into Iceland’s wild landscapes, where multi-colored rhyolite mountains meet steaming geothermal valleys and hidden hot springs. Available only during the summer months, this epic journey offers the rare chance to explore Iceland’s remote highlands, traverse the Kjölur highland route, and soak in natural hot springs—all in one unforgettable day. If you’re spending the night in Akureyri, this 12-hour tour is the perfect way to experience the rugged landscapes and thermal wonders that Iceland is famous for.

Highlights of the Kerlingarfjöll Highlands Adventure

• Exclusive Summer-Only Access: This tour is available only during the summer months, making it a rare and seasonal experience for Iceland explorers.
• Guided Day Tour to Kerlingarfjöll: Experience one of Iceland’s most magnificent mountain ranges, known for its otherworldly beauty and geothermal activity.
• Soak in Natural Hot Springs: Relax in the warm waters of Hveravellir, a secluded geothermal oasis nestled between glaciers.
• Kjölur Highland Route: Take the lesser-traveled, scenic highland road that passes between two massive glaciers for incredible landscapes.
• Guided Hike in the Hot Spring Valley: Enjoy a 1.5-hour hike through Kerlingarfjöll’s geothermal valley, surrounded by multi-colored mountains and steamy hot springs.
• Lunch and Dinner Stops: We’ll make stops for meals along the way, with lunch options available at a local store (lunch not provided) and a cozy dinner stop.
• Perfect Add-On for Akureyri Stay: For those overnighting in Akureyri, this tour offers a full day of exploration and the chance to experience some of Iceland’s most remote highland scenery.

Your Day Begins in Akureyri

Your journey begins with a morning pickup in Akureyri, where you’ll meet your expert guide and fellow adventurers. After a scenic drive into the highlands, we’ll make a brief stop at a local grocery store so you can pick up a packed lunch for the day.

The Epic Journey to Kerlingarfjöll

Our route takes us through the Kjölur highland road, one of Iceland’s most remote and visually striking areas, winding between the Langjökull and Hofsjökull glaciers. This rugged, unpaved road reveals jaw-dropping views and provides a real sense of adventure. Your guide will share fascinating stories about the area’s geology, Icelandic folklore, and environmental significance as we make our way through the highlands.

Kerlingarfjöll – Iceland’s Geothermal Treasure

Nestled between two glaciers, Kerlingarfjöll is a volcanic mountain range unlike anything else in Iceland. This area is known for its red, green, and yellow rhyolite mountains, created by thousands of years of geothermal activity and glacial forces. A geological wonder, Kerlingarfjöll is a paradise for photographers, nature lovers, and hikers.

Guided Hike Through the Hot Spring Valley

Prepare to be awed as we embark on a 1.5-hour guided hike through Kerlingarfjöll’s hot spring valley. Along the way, you’ll witness fumaroles, boiling mud pots, and steaming vents, with colorful mineral deposits covering the ground. The trails are well-kept but moderately challenging, making this hike an exciting yet accessible adventure for most fitness levels. Your guide will lead you through this geothermal wonderland, sharing insights about the area’s unique geology and ecology.

Touch the Warm Earth

In Kerlingarfjöll, you’ll have the rare chance to touch the warm earth, as the geothermal forces below the surface make the soil warm to the touch. This surreal experience brings you closer to Iceland’s powerful natural forces and makes for unforgettable photos.

Bathe in the Hveravellir Hot Springs

No visit to the highlands is complete without a soak in a natural hot spring! After hiking through Kerlingarfjöll, we’ll head to the Hveravellir Nature Reserve, where you can take a dip in the geothermal pools surrounded by untouched wilderness. The water temperature is a comfortable 35-40°C (95-104°F), perfect for relaxing your muscles and soaking in the breathtaking scenery. Remember to bring your swimwear and towel for this rejuvenating experience.

End the Day with a Scenic Drive Back to Akureyri

After a day filled with hiking, hot springs, and highland scenery, we’ll head back to Akureyri. As we drive through the highlands and return to civilization, you’ll have time to reflect on the incredible landscapes and experiences that made this adventure unforgettable.

Why Choose the Kerlingarfjöll Highlands Tour?

• Only Available in Summer: This seasonal tour operates only in the summer months, offering a unique chance to access Iceland’s highlands when they’re at their most beautiful and accessible.
• Ideal for Overnight Stays in Akureyri: With a duration of 12 hours, this tour is perfect for those who have an overnight stay in Akureyri and are looking to explore further afield.
• Small Group Adventure: Enjoy a more intimate and immersive experience with a small group of like-minded adventurers.
• Comfort and Convenience: Our luxury 4×4 vehicle ensures a comfortable journey over rugged terrain, with plenty of stops for photos, meals, and exploration.

What to Expect

• Duration: Approximately 12 hours
• Difficulty Level: Moderate; a 1.5-hour guided hike on uneven terrain
• Meals: Lunch stop at a local store (lunch not included) and a dinner stop (optional, self-paid)
• Pick-Up Location: Akureyri city center or designated pick-up points

Frequently Asked Questions

Booking and Availability

This tour is available exclusively in the summer, providing a unique opportunity to explore Iceland’s highlands when the landscape is accessible and the days are long.

Whether you’re an experienced adventurer or a curious traveler looking for Iceland’s hidden gems, the Kerlingarfjöll Highlands Tour is an unforgettable way to experience the raw beauty of Iceland. Don’t miss out on this seasonal journey—book your spot today and immerse yourself in one of Iceland’s most breathtaking landscapes!