Nature is what attracts visitors to Iceland and what better way than hiking to see what the country has to offer? In this list of the best day hikes in Iceland, discover beautiful waterfalls, canyons and glaciers that aren’t accessible otherwise.
We have gathered the top day hikes in Iceland and filled the description with tips and details about the hike. You will find out how to get to the start of the trail, the trek difficulty, distances, what you will see on the way and any important information you need to know ahead of your trip.
Top Tips for Hiking in Iceland
Iceland is an incredible country for hikers. While hiking around the country can seem accessible and a great opportunity to see many landscapes, such as waterfalls and canyons, don’t underestimate the terrain and weather. Here are some tips to prepare for a day hike in Iceland:
- Pack for all-weather – In Iceland, a glorious day can turn into a windy and cold experience in a space of a minute. Make sure to always prepare for the worse and hope for the best. Bring rain gear and layers! Keeping warm and dry is the best you can do if the weather turns, so make sure to pack accordingly, even for a short walk or hikes. On the other hand, think of sun cream protection in the summer!
- Wear appropriate hiking gear – Hiking boosts are the first thing that comes to our mind when it comes to packing gear for a hiking trip in Iceland. Trails are often rocky and muddy, so make sure your footwear holds up for any terrain. If you go on long hikes, hiking poles are always a good idea to bring along. If it’s not to help your knees during descent or help you out while climbing, hiking poles are still very useful to provide balance, and rhythm and support you in case you fall.
- Bring a map or use an offline one on your phone – Most trails in Iceland are marked but it is always safer to have a map to help navigate in case you get lost. There are a few Apps that let you download an offline map with trail information such as Maps.me or Alltrails. Google Maps often doesn’t show hiking paths, so I wouldn’t really recommend using this app during your day hike in Iceland.
- Share about your hiking plan – It is good practice to inform someone about your plan to hike in Iceland (or anywhere else in the world), and even more if you are trekking by yourself. You can inform a friend or family member on social media or let your campsite/hotel receptionist when you leave. If they don’t see you back in the evening, they can easily inform the authorities of your plan.
- Be aware of the weather forecast – as mentioned above, weather is quite unpredictable in Iceland but it is still important to check the forecast before going on a day hike. You can check this website vedur.is for the latest and most accurate information. You may also read about the best time to visit Iceland before planning for your hiking trip.
- Stay on the trail – To avoid disturbing Iceland’s ecosystem and its flora, make sure to keep on the hiking path. It is also safer to not step off the trail mostly in winter when Ice or snow can hide hazards. Take only memories, leave only Footprints!
Top Day Hikes in Iceland – the Map!
We have created a map of the Top Day Hikes in Iceland to help you organise your trip. We have mapped the trails, viewpoints and the best locations for parking.
As you start your hikes, make sure to read the appropriate signs and information boards and follow the marks along the path to keep safe.
We won’t take any responsibility for any inaccuracy in the map below. This map is just for your information. Do not hike based on the trails mapped below – these are only approximations.
1. Múlagljúfur Canyon Hike
Distance: 6 Km – Difficulty: Challenging – Length of time: 2 to 3 hours
If you’re looking for a challenging one-day hike with rewarding views and fewer tourists, consider the hike through Múlagljúfur Canyon.
Located in South Iceland near the Skaftafell glacier, this hike takes you roughly 6 km into a canyon surrounded by lush green forests and mossy cliffsides. The scenery will have you feeling like you’ve been transported back in time and are hiking through Jurassic Park.
Sometimes compared to the more famous Fjaðrárgljúfur Canyon, Múlagljúfur is far less crowded and has remained mostly under the radar from tourism. Though it may not remain a hidden gem for much longer, it is recommended to check it out as soon as you get a chance!
With 367 meters in elevation gain, this challenging out-and-back hike takes you to a viewpoint where you’ll see not one but two beautiful waterfalls – Hangandifoss up close, and another beautiful fall further down the canyon.
This is one of the most epic views in all of Iceland! You should plan about 2-3 hours to complete the entire hike, allowing for plenty of time for photos in the middle.
Getting to Múlagljúfur Canyon will require a nearly 5-hour drive (364 km to be exact) from Reykjavik. A worthy stop along the Ring Road, this day hike is best done as part of your Ring Road Iceland itinerary.
2. Bruarfoss Waterfall hike
Distance: 6 Km – Difficulty: Easy to Moderate – Length of time: 2 to 3 hours
Nestled along Iceland’s renowned Golden Circle route is the scenic Bruarfoss Waterfall, aptly referred to as Iceland’s bluest waterfall. To reach Bruarfoss, you’ll first need to hike along its 6.2km out-and-back trail, known for its mixture of extraordinarily muddy terrain and rocky pathways.
While the trail is suitable for all skill levels, it’s imperative to know how to pack for a day hike of this moderate calibre as specialized equipment may be required; including hiking boots with ample traction, trekking poles, and more.
Located between Thingvellir National Park and the infamous Geysir, the Bruarfoss day hike is accessible from Reykjavik by making the approximate hour-and-a-half drive northeast into the iconic Golden Circle.
It’s here that you’ll begin your self-guided trek through generous tree cover toward the first milestone of Hlauptungufoss. Oftentimes, hikers will mistake this initial landmark as the final destination of the Bruarfoss hike – thus turning around and calling it a day! – making for a far less trafficked trail from there onwards.
However, this is only one of three waterfalls along the route. Instead, follow the path leading north that runs parallel to the riverbed, past the second milestone of Midifoss, until you reach the brief ascension that brings you to the Bruarfoss lookout.
While you can anticipate spending anywhere between 2-3 hours hiking the Bruarfoss trail (depending on pace, frequency/duration of stops, and how muddy the terrain is – especially if there’s been recent rainfall), know that it’s a truly worthwhile trek amongst Iceland’s striking landscape.
Info: a few Golden Circle guided tours from Reykjavik include the hike in their itinerary. Check out this tour if you don’t have a car and wish to combine both activities!
3. Reykjadalur Thermal River Hike
Distance: 8 Km – Difficulty: Easy to Moderate – Length of time: 3 to 4 hours (including time at the river)
The day hike to the Reykjadalur Thermal River is a fantastic activity to do in Iceland, as both the walk and the thermal river are a great experience with beautiful views and a nice reward at the end.
This one-day hike is about 4 km one-way and should take just over 1 hour to reach the river. Overall, it’s considered an easy to medium difficulty but in winter make sure to have the right gear as the trail can be very icy.
The first part of the trail is steep and follows several hot mud pots that you’ll smell before seeing them! These will be actively gurgling and bubbling (stay away!).
As you get to the top of the hills, you will be rewarded with views over a gorgeous canyon dotted by waterfalls streaming down and rolling the hills around you. Don’t be surprised if you see fog on those grass-covered hills and steam rising from hot streams in the distance. The effect makes the landscape otherworldly.
As you follow the edge of the canyon further up into the hills, the trail flattens for the last mile, and you’ll know you’re at the bathing part of the thermal river when you reach a boardwalk. It will lead you along the steaming river where you can hop on for a relaxing bath – Tip: the farther you walk, the hottest the river is!
There are some “stalls” to get changed into your swimsuit, but to call these spots private would be an overstatement – plan to have a friend hold up a towel if you want any privacy!
The hike starts 5 minutes from the town of Hveragerði, which has a great campsite if you are travelling around Iceland by campervan. Otherwise, it’s only 45 minutes from Reykjavik, making it an easy day trip from the capital.
Info: You can take bus 51 to Hveragerði from Mjódd (outside of Reykjavik – you can reach with bus 3 from Gamla Hringbraut). The journey by Straeto bus is about 1 hour and departure is every 1.5 hours. Alternatively, you can join a day tour from Reykjavik if you don’t have access to a car. It is a 5-hour trip with a guide. Crampons are provided when required in winter!
4. Hengifoss waterfall Hike
Distance: 4.7 Km – Difficulty: Moderate – Length of time: 2 hours
Located in Iceland’s Eastern Region, Hengifoss is largely known as the third tallest waterfall in the country and is often characterized by its dramatic surroundings of layered red clay and stark black volcanic rock.
This, in combination with the flowing blue waters of the falls and the island’s signature basalt columns, distinguishes Hengifoss as one of the most worthwhile treks nationwide.
To get there, first follow the Ring Road/Hwy 1 south of Iceland’s Eastern Capital of Egilsstaðir until the road forks, where you will follow Route 931 right. Then, follow Route 931 for approximately 23km until you’ve reached a T-intersection where you’ll want to turn left towards the bridge.
Near this bridge, you’ll find the Hengifoss trailhead parking lot, equipped with bathroom facilities.
It’s often said that the hike to Hengifoss is more than most hikers bargained for. While the trail is ranked as intermediate, expect to make the steady climb up more than 253m of elevation gain over the course of 4.7km (out and back), prior to reaching the final viewpoint; with the steepest section located right at the beginning – tiring out unsuspecting hikers far quicker than anticipated!
While there is ample opportunity to grab a seat, catch your breath and take in the surrounding views along this 2-hour trek, it’s recommended to first brush up on the solo hiking essentials, which will contribute greatly to your ability to conquer this otherwise challenging – yet rewarding – self-guided one-day hike, that cuts between dense forest and trails an otherwise daunting canyon drop-off.
5. Fimmvörðuháls Day Hike
Distance: 25 Km – Difficulty: Challenging – Length of time: 8-10 hours
One of the best day hikes in Iceland is the Fimmvörðuháls Hike, in the southern part of the country. You can do this 25-km hike in one day or split it into two to take your time to enjoy the natural landscape. Fimmvörðuháls is a breathtaking hike that really shows off the natural beauty of Iceland.
The trek starts at Skogafoss waterfall, one of the most famous waterfalls in Iceland, and ends at the Basar Hut in Thorsmork (Þórsmörk). Alternatively, you can also start in Thorsmork and end at Skogafoss.
From Skogafoss, the first part of the hike follows the Skoga river past over 25 waterfalls of varying shapes and sizes. It’s actually called the “Waterfall Way” because of the density. Off the hiking trail, there are overlooks into a beautiful green valley.
The trail crosses the Skoga river after 8km and then the lush green changes as you reach a volcanic plateau. This part (about 5km) is a more rocky gravel path to the Baldvinsskáli Hut.
The landscape then changes again to more volcanic rocks and features as you continue on through the fields to Fimmvörðuháls Pass. It’s can be a bit strenuous through volcanic soil at this stage.
After the Fimmvörðuháls pass, you’ll hike across a snowfield (even in summer), between the Eyjafjallajökul and Mýrdalssjokuls glaciers. Following this, it’s a steep walk downhill but there is one short section right on the cliff that has a chain to assist you. From here, the views open up as you descend to Thórsmörk.
Tip: There are two huts a little off the trail which are the perfect spots to spend the night if you decide to complete this hike overnight.
– Baldvinsskali Mountain Hut: sleeps 16 people and costs 9000 ISK ($70) per person
– Fimmvörðuskáli hut: can accommodate up to 18 people. The price is 7.600 ISK (€53) per person per night.
Info: Skogafoss is about a 2.5-hour drive on the ring road from Reykjavik. If you plan to hike all the way to Þórsmörk, you will need to book a highland bus to Seljalandsfoss and hitchhike your way back to Skogafoss. For more info, check out Two Wandering Soles’ latest article about hiking Fimmvörðuháls.
6. Latrabjarg Bird Cliffs Hike
Distance: 5 Km – Difficulty: Moderate – Length of time: 2 hours
Latrabjarg bird cliffs are located in the Westfjords of Iceland and in the summer months, this is one of the most spectacular day hikes in Iceland where you can go Puffin watching!
The hike starts at the Bjargtangar Lighthouse which is the most westerly building in Europe. Other than the lighthouse and the parking area there is nothing else here. Although, the trail is clearly marked from the parking area and heads uphill along the cliff edge.
As soon as you leave the parking area the birds that these cliffs are famous for can be seen. In fact, puffins and kittiwakes nest all along the Latrabjarg cliffs during the summer months, and it is not unusual to see them walking around on the grass near the path. The further along the trail you hike, the more birds you will encounter and the more stunning the landscape becomes.
There are a few steep areas but once you are past the initial uphill the path follows a gentle incline. However, there are steep drops to the sea on one side and on windy days (which happens a lot) you will need to be very careful.
The Latrabjarg cliffs hike is an out-and-back trail that is about 5km long with a 520m elevation gain. Though, you can continue along the cliffs for as long as you want.
Allow yourself about 2 hours to really make the most of the hike and watch the wildlife that you will encounter. Just make sure to keep to the path to not disturb the Puffins and other wildlife.
If you are driving, Latrabjarg can be reached by following the 612 roads to its very end. The 612 joins with the main 62 which is the link between Patreksfjörður and Flókalundur near the Brjánslækur ferry (to Stykkishólmur on the Snæfellsnes peninsula) just before the wreck of the Garðar BA 64. This area should not be visited if weather warnings are in place or during the winter months.
Info: to our knowledge, there are no organised day tours from Reykjavik to the Latrabjarg cliffs.
7. Glacier hike from skaftafell
Distance: Depends on the guided tour – Difficulty: Moderate – Length of time: 3 to 4 hours
Skaftafell which is part of Vatnajökull National Park is a 4-hour drive from Reykjavík along the South Coast of Iceland. It is mostly known for the beautiful Svartifoss waterfall and beautiful day hikes. But one of the best activities in the area is to actually hike on a Glacier!
However, exploring the icy landscape without a guide is extremely dangerous, and it is highly recommended to book a tour with an experienced guide. They will provide you with the appropriate gear to remain safe. You will have a helmet, an axe and crampons that will make it easier to walk on the ice.
During the glacier hike which usually lasts about 3 to 4 hours, you will walk on a glacier, enter amazing ice caves and will see incredible colours and shapes of the ice. This once-in-a-lifetime experience will stay in your memories forever!
The best way to join a tour is to stay overnight in this area. There are good accommodations in Fosshótel Núpar, which is only 35-minute drive to Skaftafell National Park. But you can also stay at the Skaftafell Campsite if you are travelling by Campervan.
The Glacier hike is not difficult and can be done all year long, however, the ice cave visit is only available in winter. It is one of the best reasons to visit Iceland during winter amongst others such as admiring the Northern Lights or exploring the island covered in beautiful white snow.
Tip: Make sure to bring gloves and a waterproof jacket, even in Summer.
Info: You will need to book your tour online because the ticket office is often closed due to current restrictions.
8. Landmannalaugar Hike
Distance: 6 Km – Difficulty: Moderate to Challenging – Length of time: 3 to 4 hours
Landmannalaugar which is known for its colourful mountains is an amazing destination to explore for a day trip in the Icelandic highlands. There are in fact, a few hikes to follow which start from the Landmannalaugar campsite area.
One of the most popular is the hike to Mt Blahnúkúr at 945 m. The name of the mountain means Blue Peak and it really lives to this name as it has a dark blue colour.
This one-day hike may not have a big elevation, but it is not the easiest either. It is a 6.1 km circular trail full of steep ascends and descends. The route follows a steep ascend at the top of the mountain and a challenging descent at the other side.
The trail then continues around the mountain through a rocky path. Overall, it takes between 3 to 4 hours to complete the trail, depending on your fitness level.
Despite all the challenges, the hike is totally worth it as the views from the top are absolutely breathtaking. Assuming you hike on a clear day, you can see all the colourful mountains of the region and even some glaciers in the distance.
As Landmannalaugar is in the highlands of Iceland, it is not easily accessible. To get there you will need to drive on some tough roads and traverse a few rivers. This means that you will only be able to drive there using a 4×4 car and only during the summer. If you aren’t comfortable driving, it is still possible to visit the area by taking the highlander bus from Reykjavik.
Info: Organising a trip on your own to Landmannalaugar can be constraining. You can also join a tour with pick-up from Reykjavik if you prefer.
9. Glymur waterfall Day hike
Distance: 7 km – Difficulty: Moderate – Length of time: 4 to 6 hours
Flowing from the river Botnsa, Glymur is the second tallest and absolute must-see waterfall in Iceland (it once was the tallest before the Morsárfoss waterfall was discovered in 2011). Botnsa river runs from lake Hvalvatn and cascades from a height of around 200m down a short and steep canyon into the valley of Botnsdalur.
There are a couple of viewpoints along the hiking trail with spectacular views of the canyon. Although, along the marked path, there are several obstacles that will require walking through a cave, trekking across a log over the river (in summer months, June through September), and using chains to scramble up and down the side of a cliff.
None of these is too challenging though; this is a moderate day hike in Iceland. However, make sure to wear waterproof hiking boots. There are slippery surfaces and crumbling rocks in some areas.
If it rains and the river floods, hikers must wade across the river even on the marked hiking trails, and in winter months, a snow-covered trail makes hiking more dangerous.
Once you reach the waterfall, you can walk up along the canyon, wade across the river, and continue down along the west side on sparsely marked trails but be prepared to get wet! This path creates a loop back to the parking lot. Alternatively, you can complete the hike back the way you came.
The full trail is around 7km with an elevation gain close to 430m and averages around 4-6 hours to complete.
The start of the Glymur waterfall hike is a one-hour drive from Reykjavik along Þjóðvegur 1 (Ring Road), which is perfect for a day trip. On the north side of the Hvalfjörður fjord (do not take the tunnel to Akranes), there will be a sign for Glymur leading to a dirt road (47) which is about 3km long. It is not an F-Road so any car can venture but make sure to reduce speed.
10. Stuðlagil Canyon Hike
Distance: 6km – Difficulty: Easy – Length of time: 2 hours
One of the most unique views in Iceland is the Stuðlagil Canyon! This canyon was covered by water for hundreds of years and was only recently discovered. The canyon is located in East Iceland and is truly one of the best-hidden gems in Iceland that you shouldn’t miss!
The Stuðlagil Canyon Hike is about 3 km one way and takes about 30-60 minutes depending on the conditions and how fast your hiking speed is. If you plan on visiting this amazing canyon, you should budget at least 2 hours to complete this hike.
There are a few areas to park and depending on how long you want to hike you can decide whether to park closer to the Canyon (Westside) or not. For the hike to the best viewpoint, cross the white bridge and follow the road to the Eastside car park.
Once on the trail, there are sheep fences that you will have to go through so be sure to close them behind you. Depending on the time of year, it may be rainy and the hike may be muddy.
Once you get to the canyon itself, take care as walking down to the bottom near the water can be very slippery. If you don’t feel safe doing this, you can view the canyon from above!
Upon arriving, you will be greeted by stunning green water – if the season is right – and a canyon surrounded by basalt rocks. Truly one of the coolest and most unique hikes in Iceland!
EXTRA: Laugavegur multi-day hike
There are plenty of One-Day hikes in Iceland, but if you are looking for something a bit more challenging, you can try this beautiful Multi-day hike in the Highlands of Iceland.
Distance: 54 Km – Difficulty: Challenging – Length of time: 3 to 5 days
One of the most famous hikes in Iceland is the Laugavegur trail. National Geographic has even listed it as one of the most beautiful trails in the entire world.
This hiking path begins at Landmannalauger and ends in Thorsmork and is 54km long. The average time to complete this trail is 3-5 days depending on your hiking abilities and fitness level. It is the perfect one-day hike to add to your 2-week Iceland itinerary.
What makes the hiking experience so incredible is the insane landscape that can only be seen by hiking through it. From amazing mountaintops to glacial valleys to old lava fields, this trail has a bit of everything that Iceland has to offer. The hike itself takes you through multiple different types of terrain that provide a colour mountain scenery. This hike is a photographer’s dream.
To access the Laugavegur trail, you will want to take a bus from Reykjavik to Landmannlauger. These buses are easy to book, but you will want to book them in advance. Plan on spending the night camping in Landmannlauger so that you can start early in the morning on your first day of hiking.
You do not need to join a guided trek, but you absolutely can if that makes you feel more comfortable. This hike is absolutely beautiful and worth doing during your time in Iceland.
Tip: This hike requires some preparation but a bit of experience when it comes to multi-day hiking. If that’s not your thing, you can appreciate the beautiful landscapes of Langavegur on a day trip by joining this tour.
ARE YOU PLANNING A TRIP TO ICELAND?
We have a lot of articles about travelling in Iceland and add new ones each month. Check out our latest guides below to prepare for your trip…
- 10+ Must-See Waterfalls in Iceland
- Best Day Trips from Reykjavik
- Self-Drive Guide to the Golden Circle
- 5 Beautiful Black Sand Beaches
- Top Day Hikes in Iceland
- Iceland on a Budget
- Exploring Vatnajokull National Park
- 7-day Road-Trip Itinerary to the South Coast
- 10 best hot springs in Iceland
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ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Jen – Owner, writer & photographer – has lived for the past 10 years across Oceania and Ireland while also travelling long-term in Latin America, North America and Europe. She has visited more than 60 countries and set foot on every continent in the world!
>> Favourite countries: New Zealand, Bolivia, Iceland.
>> Wishlist: Svalbard, Japan, Botswana, Alaska.
>> Philosophy: “We travel not to escape life, but for life not to escape us.
Jen is a coffee nerd, passionate about photography, wildlife and outdoor activities. Her organisation and curiosity make her a great travel companion always looking for DIY and off-the-grid adventures. For more info, check out the About page.
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Hiking poles are indeed very useful. In certain areas, I have used them to shoo the monkeys/ dogs away.
Iceland looks absolutely beautiful! These photos are stunning. I love hiking, so I have no doubt I would adore exploring Iceland on these beautiful hikes. The Glacier Hike from Skaftafell looks so cool and very unique. Thanks for sharing.