Hiking in Iceland for the First-Time? Take Advantage of Local Adventures’ Ultimate Iceland Hiking Guide 

It seems like Iceland has been created with hiking enthusiasts in mind – the land of volcanoes, glaciers, northern lights, rugged landscapes, volcanoes, mountains, waterfalls, and natural hot springs. Interestingly, every region of Iceland is blessed with superb hiking trails. From day hikes ideal for beginners to demanding glacier hikes perfect for pros, there exists a trek for everyone in ‘ the land of fire and ice.’ 

‘Versatility’ is the word that truly defines hiking in Iceland – and it is perhaps the reason why so many tourists return to the country, year after year, to tick off the next hiking trail on their checklist. In fact, no experience on one trail in Iceland is the same as another. 

Here, the experts at Local Adventures have put together an Iceland hiking guide, specifically for first timers. Choose from our unique tours below to make your Iceland hike experience a truly memorable one. Covering some of the best hiking trails in Iceland, each of the tours has been crafted to sate your thirst for adventure, regardless of the kind of hiker you are.

Around Iceland – 13 Days

Experience some of the country’s best natural wonders and locations first-hand. From geothermal wonders and waterfalls to glacial lagoons and black sand beaches, explore the diverse beauty of Iceland in depth. 

Tour highlights

• Whale watching and wildlife tours
• Relaxing soaks in natural springs and geothermal baths
• Glacier tours
• Black sand beach visit
• Numerous waterfalls
• Camping in Skaftafell National Park
• Midnight sun

South Coast Adventure & Laugavegur Trail Iceland- 6 Days

Hike the iconic Laugavegur Trail – from the hot springs of Landmannalaugar to the glacial valley of Thórsmörk – with breath-taking landscapes, including mountains, hot springs, deserts, and more. Explore the famous South Coast, known for its cascading waterfalls, fascinating glaciers, black beaches, and mysterious volcanoes.

Tour highlights 

• Laugavegur Trek
• South Coast Trip
• Ice Cave by the Katla Volcano
• Glamping Farmhouse
• Skogafoss Waterfall

Unforgettable Adventure at Katla Volcano – 3 Days

Led by experienced local guides, this tour gives the chance to trek under the mighty Katla Volcano in Iceland. Explore deep into the heart of magnificent Iceland, as the tour will take you far beyond the regular tourist routes.

Tour highlights 

• Kötlujökull glacier exploration
• Þakgil valley trek
• Trek to the lush green valleys of Presthelli
• Heiðargil Descent
• Farmhouse stay in Skeidflot
• South Coast tour

Katla Ice Cave Tour – 4 Hours

Discover South Iceland’s splendid glaciers and ice caves. Be ready to get stunned by the surreal scenery and jaw-dropping sights. Get the opportunity to be inside an ice cave while observing and touching the ice in many shades.

Tour highlights

• Hike on the rugged terrain of the wild Icelandic landscape
• Breathtaking views of Kötlujökull glacier
• Ice cave tour

South Coast Adventure – 3 Days

Revel in the beauty of cascading waterfalls like Skógafoss and Seljalandsfoss while enjoying mesmerizing views of mountains, volcanoes, glaciers, and valleys. Discover Thórsmörk Natural Reserve – a haven for nature enthusiasts that boasts some of the most stunning landscapes and hiking trails in Iceland.

Tour highlights:

• Langidalur Hut
• Valahnúkur Mountain
• Katla glacier exploration, including cave exploration and glacier hiking
• Coastal drive and beach drive
• Glamping farmhouse retreat
• Skógafoss waterfall
• Glacier adventure 

Around Iceland – 8 Days

This one-of-a-kind guided tour of Iceland not just covers all the top highlights of the Nordic country, but it also gives you the chance to stay at unique locations. 

Tour highlights: 

• Thingvellir National Park visit
• Camping in Skaftafell National Park and Egilsstaðir
• Vatnajökull and Langjokull glaciers
• Borgarfjordur fjord
• Lake Mývatn for sightseeing and photography
• Geothermal baths
• Akureyri
• Snæfellsnes Peninsula
• Lava caves

Laugavegur Trail – 4 Days

Hike the world-famous Laugavegur trail for an unforgettable adventure. Explore geothermal wonders and witness colorful mountains and breathtaking glaciers. The unique route will take you from Landmannalaugar’s hot springs all the way to Thórsmörk glacial valley.

Tour highlights

• Landmannalaugar geothermal wonderland exploration
• Þórsmörk valley visit
• Volcanic peaks and crater lakes
• Swan Lake (Álftavatn)
• Hike through the black sand desert of Mælifellssandur and the plains of Emstrur
• Mýrdalsjökull and Eyjafjallajökull glaciers

Around Iceland – Northern Lights – 6 Days

Immerse yourself fully in the magic of Iceland, while enjoying comfy nights under skies bursting with Northern Lights. Enjoy your stay in the beautiful countryside away from light pollution and experience Iceland’s dramatic landscapes in complete comfort.

Tour highlights

• Geothermal wonders of Mývatn
• Glacier lakes & black sand beaches
• Wildlife spotting
• Waterfall wonderland
• Natural springs
• Cozy accommodation
• Northern Lights

Private Tour – Bespoke

Besides group trips, Local Adventures regularly organizes custom private trips to Iceland, usually during winter, spring, and autumn. Keep your private tour budget-friendly by going camping and cooking for yourself – or going helicopter skiing in winter. Also, based on your choice, either stay in a villa or a cozy guesthouse. You can also choose between multi-day trekking tours with luggage transport and excursion tours from a stable base. 

Featuring some of the best day hikes in Iceland, our group and private tours are designed to suit every hiker looking to explore the raw beauty of Iceland at its best. A unique aspect of our tours is that they include unconventional routes and locations, so you experience one-of-a-kind Iceland hikes, making your tour even more memorable. 

So, what are you waiting for? Write to us or call us now to book an Iceland hike tour with Local Adventures today!