A man stood in front of a waterfall in a cave in Iceland

Luxury Iceland Hiking
Tours made for you

Must-do hikes in Iceland, the Land of Ice and Fire

Southern Iceland

See glaciers and waterfalls

Golden Circle

Walk on Iceland’s ice fields

Northern Iceland

Discover the rugged north

Icelandic Highlands

Witness the stark interior

Awe-inspiring Iceland hiking tours

Iceland’s unique terrain is caused by massive underground forces that have spent thousands of years reshaping the land through eruptions, earthquakes and the slow-motion separation of the North American and Eurasian plates. At Thingvellir National Park in the Golden Circle, you can walk a short, easy trail that crosses between continents. In Iceland, the “Land of Ice and Fire”, there are craters, lava fields, black sand beaches and hot springs to explore, but there is also a vast frozen landscape – even in the summer months. Roughly ten percent of Iceland is covered by glaciers, including Europe’s largest, Vatnajökull in Southern Iceland.

If you want to see ice caves or frozen waterfalls, December to February offer the best conditions (plus the long, dark nights are great for chasing the northern lights), but many people prefer to hike in Iceland in summer. In the warmer months, the trails in the rugged Icelandic Highlands open up and there’s longer days and easier, more accessible walking conditions. You can walk the trails on Mount Esja for sweeping views over Reykjavik, or enjoy a glacier walk on the Snaefellsnes peninsula.

Year-round, super jeeps get you to trails and hot springs in Landmannalaugar, helicopter flights open up glacier hiking, and snowmobiling helps you explore the incredible Eyjafjallajökull ice cap. And, after a day of hiking, you can always recover in the Blue Lagoon’s warm mineral waters on the Reykjanes peninsula. Whatever your experience or level of adventure, and whatever time of year, our expert travel designers will plan your perfect Iceland hiking trip.

Highlights

In Iceland’s Golden Circle, walk on the ice field at Sólheimajökull with a knowledgeable, certified glacier guide

Retreat to Deplar Farm in a remote valley on the Troll peninsula in lesser-visited Northern Iceland

Witness the majesty of Gullfoss Falls on a luxury Golden Circle tour

Hike through remote Icelandic wilderness to soak in the geothermal pools at Húsafell-Giljaböð on Snaefellsnes Peninsula

In Southern Iceland, drive up the Vatnajökull Glacier in a super jeep for a short hike into a spectacular series of ice caves

Dan Rhodes

Travel Designer

Iceland is truly an imposing, otherworldly landscape. We love customising the epic Laugavegur trail to suit your ability and itinerary, and planning excursions with expert guides to hike on Iceland’s glaciers and lava fields, or to waterfalls and hot springs.

Dan Rhodes

Travel Designer

Luxury accommodation in Iceland

There are many incredible places to stay in Iceland. Here are some of our favourites, handpicked by our travel designers:

Northern Iceland

In a remote valley in the middle of the Troll Peninsula, Deplar Farm is perhaps the most unique place to stay in Iceland. Once a working sheep farm, this sprawling property with its grass roof may look traditionally Icelandic on first glimpse, but its luxurious transformation into an opulent lodge soon becomes apparent. There are 13 en suite rooms that accommodate up to 28 guests, including cosy family options. The rest of the farm is home to a fabulous indoor-outdoor salt water pool and bar, a sauna, gym, dining area, spa, lounge area and more. How you experience this incredible landscape depends on the time of year you visit. During the winter, opt for the heli-ski package to fly up onto the surrounding peaks then slalom down virgin runs to the ocean accompanied by expert guides. You can also go cat skiing, hot spring hopping, snowmobiling, whale watching and even surfing (for the brave). End the day back at the lodge, under the glow of the Northern Lights with a little luck. Long summer days bring fabulous fly fishing on exclusive beats and the chance to join a local captain at sea, returning to Deplar to eat your catch. Hiking guides can lead you on trails along endless valleys and dramatic cliffs dotted with waterfalls or perhaps kayak down dramatic rivers and out at sea. Other activities include horse riding, mountain biking and day trips out to nearby islands.

Icelandic Highlands

The modern Hotel Husafell sits amidst the dramatic landscape of west Iceland, offering 36 rooms that are each beautifully decorated with paintings from Husafell’s own world-renowned artist, Pall Gudmundssson. The hotel is powered by the electricity generated on-site from small hydroelectric power stations which are driven by the river. Additionally, the hot water which heats up the hotel and its geothermal baths comes from the nearby mountains. Two restaurants on-site offer Nordic dishes and international cuisine made from high quality and seasonal locally grown produce, enhance by wonderful views around the dining areas. Hotel Husafell is located in an area rich in history and extraordinary natural wonders, with a range of activities on offer that cater to all groups of people, from those seeking to unwind relax in beautiful surroundings, have an action-packed adventure or spend time with the family outdoors.

Reykjavik

The Retreat at Blue Lagoon Iceland

Located in the heart of an 800-year-old, moss-covered lava flow, the Retreat at Blue Lagoon Iceland brings a new level of immersion and luxury to the iconic landmark. 62 suites are wonderful architectural creations, with cool, modern interiors and vast glass walls revealing the dramatic volcanic landscape outside and terraces surrounded by the steaming waters. An astonishing underground spa journey mixes dry heat, steam heat, massage, fire and a cold air well, culminating with the Blue Lagoon Ritual where you experience the geothermal seawater’s revitalizing mineral salt, silica and algae. Rounding out the wellness experience, Moss Restaurant has a menu that moves between Iceland’s mountains, farmlands and sea to show of the best of the island’s cuisine. The restaurant also features a chef’s table, a lounge, and a wine cellar deep in the centuries-old lava.

Golden Circle

Torfhús Retreat

The remoteness of this snug hideaway is a most attractive feature to those looking to flee from the flurry of city life. Set in close proximity to Iceland’s Golden Circle, within driving distance of the Great Gullfoss waterfall and the Great Geysir, Torfhús Retreat encompasses 25 inky-black cabins, lined with turf. Interiors are accentuated by alpine wooden ceilings, panels and furniture, merged with leather seating, soft rugs and warm lighting. A cosy lounge area allows guests to unwind in the comfort of their cabin, or if they’re wanting to relax while taking in the rugged scenery, they can make use of the basalt hot tub outside. A homely communal area calls for board games in between sips of mulled wine, and the on-site restaurant offers an ever-changing menu, inspired by local produce and the catch of the day. A classic Icelandic breakfast is served every morning, and hearty soups and fresh bread are available during the day, ensuring ample sustenance for adventuring in the wilderness. If guests can pull themselves away from the salubrious waters of the tub, various day excursions are available, such as horse riding, helicopter sightseeing, fishing, mountain hikes and glacier tours.

Snaefellsnes Peninsula

Found beside the Snæfellsjökull glacier and a vast, windswept beach, within a lava field on the dramatic peninsula, Hotel Budir is surrounded by an array of surreal scenery and indeed, a true wilderness retreat. Settle into your room here and look out to these incredible views of mountains and inlets from your room’s cushioned window-seat. Then, relax from your day of glacier hiking with a soak in your rolltop bath. Further cosy, scenic spots can be found throughout the property. The common room is filled with leather sofas sitting by roaring fires and large picture windows, while the bar offers a telescope and floor-to-ceiling views of seals playing in the bay. There is also a sense of both tradition and romance here, from the sepia photos to the framed memorabilia that adorn the walls and the restaurant’s candle-lit tables which create a lovely gourmet setting.

Southern Iceland

Found in the perfect spot of Southern Iceland for outdoor lovers, the log-cabin Ranga Hotel is a cocoon of warmth, ideal for relaxing after Northern Lights viewing and glacier touring. This cosy hideaway boasts uninterrupted panoramas from all parts of the property. Guestrooms look out to the East Ranga River or Mount Helka which are best enjoyed with a soak in your private jacuzzi – drink in hand. If you fancy something a little quirkier, opt for one of the lavish suites. Themed on the seven continents, they are filled with weird and wonderful touches such as Aztec wall-hangings, a didgeridoo, bearskin and bison head. Facing the salmon-filled river, the reputable restaurant features a farmer’s market concept. Local produce and freshly-caught seafood is prepared here to create delicious Nordic dishes with a Mediterranean twist. Venturing outside to the barely polluted rural skies, the luxury amenities continue. Three outdoor hot tubs heated with geothermal water provide an unforgettable place to watch the aurora borealis dance across the sky, while the astronomical observatory with its roll-off roof and telescopes offers superb stargazing.

Why book with Jacada?

Personalised design

We’ll plan your trip around your specific interests, tastes and preferences, providing helpful tips and honest advice based on first-hand knowledge of the destination.

Authentic experiences

Our expert guides and brilliant travel concierges are hand-picked to provide a genuine experience, bringing your destination to life with care and passion.

Responsible travel

Our luxury trips are designed with responsible travel principles that prioritise travel experiences that are both good for you and good for the planet.

Trip inspiration

Get inspired with our Iceland example trips and then get in touch to plan your own adventure

13 Day trip

Iceland and Arctic Norway Adventure

Experience the awe-inspiring beauty of Iceland and Norway's arctic Svalbard archipelago

6 Day trip

Classic Summer Iceland

An exclusive five-night trip of Iceland's highlights and must-sees

8 Day trip

Isolated Iceland

Eight days exploring Iceland's dramatic coastline and rugged interior away from the crowds

8 Day trip

Ultimate Iceland

Iceland's most exclusive hotels and finest adventures

5 Day trip

Glaciers and Northern Lights

An exclusive five-day trip to Iceland's renowned natural wonders

8 Day trip

Culinary and Cultural Iceland

A weeklong discovery of the cultural and culinary highlights of Iceland

Ready to plan your adventure?

Whatever you want from your Iceland hiking tour, our team of expert travel designers are ready to help.

Where to go

Eastern Fjords

Iceland's lesser-visited eastern region features dramatic contrasts: cosy harbour towns dot the coastline while ancient glaciers, rugged peaks and dense forests create a pristine landscape.

Golden Circle

Iceland's premier sightseeing route showcases the nation’s top natural attractions of Thingvellir National Park, Gullfoss waterfall and Haukadalur valley’s famous geysers, including Geysir and Strokkur.

Icelandic Highlands

The remote interior offers a moonscape of dark volcanic rock and sweeping vistas. This uninhabited wilderness provides thrilling adventures via super jeep or snowmobile across rugged terrain and unmarked trails.

Northern Iceland

This distinctive region centers around vibrant Akureyri, Iceland's northern capital. Discover settlements with traditional turf homes, and marvel at striking geological formations and thundering cascades.

Reykjavik

Iceland's colourful capital overlooks dramatic seascapes and glacial views, with rainbow-hued buildings lining historic streets. The city offers easy access to geothermal spas plus fine dining, nightlife and cultural attractions.

Snaefellsnes Peninsula

The wild western peninsula captivates with its raw beauty – storm-battered coastlines, dramatic volcanic peaks and charming fishing towns.

Southern Iceland

A diverse region which delivers Iceland's greatest concentration of natural wonders and outdoor activities. Discover Viking heritage and exceptional culinary experiences.

Westfjords

Iceland's most isolated corner stretches toward Greenland across arctic waters. This untouched peninsula features towering cliffs and deep coastal inlets where mountains slope dramatically into the ocean.

When to visit

Iceland offers compelling reasons to visit during every season. In the winter months between December and February there are lows of -2°C (28.4°F) and you can explore ice caves – plus the dark evenings provide optimal conditions to chase the northern lights. Summer brings mild weather and extended daylight, perfect for trekking and outdoor pursuits.

Shoulder seasons see fewer crowds: in spring there are dramatic waterfall displays as ice melts across the island, and autumn delivers serene landscapes where early snowfall beautifully contrasts with the country’s reddening mosses.

Ice caves

December–February

Blue Lagoon

Year-round

Hiking

June–August

Spring-melt waterfalls

March–May

When is the Best Time to Visit Iceland?

Read more

Iceland Travel Guides

8 Best Things to Do in Iceland

Read more

The Land of Fire and Ice: Iceland Travel Guide

Read more

How to See the Northern Lights in Iceland

Read more

A Guide to Wildlife in Iceland

Read more

Read more

The Best Hikes in Europe

Read more

Plan your trip to Iceland

Whatever you want from your adventure in Iceland, our team of expert travel designers are ready to help.

Plan with peace of mind

When you book a trip in today’s world there’s a lot to think about. But with the right advice and expert planning, you can do it with confidence.

If you book to travel with us but your plans are impacted by circumstances you can’t control, we’ll change your reservation or cancel your booking for a full credit towards future travel.

Where would you like to travel?

Ariel view of waves breaking on a forested shoreline