Volcanic Trails 1 & 2: Exploring the Wilderness
Volcanic Trails Trek: Explorer’s Peak to the Canyon of Fire
Combine the first two parts of the Volcanic Trails trek for a stunning 7-day trek through one of Iceland’s greatest volcanic regions. From the peak of Sveinstindur by lake Langisjór, the trail goes along the river Skaftá and then follows the Eldgjá volcanic fissure along the Strútur trail to Álftavatn.
Day 1: Reykjavík – Sveinstindur, The Explorer’s Peak
Meeting point at 7:15 at BSI central bus terminal at Vatnsmýrarvegur 10. Our transport takes us along highland tracks to Mt. Sveinstindur, by lake Langisjór, one of Iceland’s most beautiful lakes. After climbing the peak for some amazing views over the mountains and up to Vatnajökull glacier, we descend to a traditional hut on the other side. Rustic hut, outhouse, and no showers.
Distance: 6 km
Ascent/descent: 480 m
Day 2: Sveinstindur - Skaftá - Skælingar
Following the river Skaftá, with rapids and waterfalls, the trail leads to the small and impressive canyon of Hvanngil. The landscape is truly volcanic, with black lava, green moss, and different rock formations. At the end of the day, you arrive in the magical Skælingar area, an ancient lava forest close to the riverbed of Skaftá. Rustic hut, outhouse, and no showers.
Distance: 16-18 km
Ascent/descent: 250 m
Walking time: 6-8 hrs
Day 3: Skælingar - Gjátindur - Eldgjá - Hólaskjól
After packing up, we start the day’s hike leading to the Canyon of Fire - Eldgjá. A slow descent into the canyon allows time to enjoy this remarkable place and its many wonders before concluding the day with a hike to huts at nearby Hólaskjól where we spend the night after completing the first section of the Volcanic Trails. Comfortable hut, WC, and showers available.
Distance: 18 km
Ascent/descent: 350 m
Walking time: 6-8 hrs
Day 4: Hólaskjól - Álftavötn
We head out on the second part of the trail heading to the lakes of Álftavötn. Hiking through green hills, we follow the river Syðri Ófæra. At Álftavötn, we find a traditional hut where we spend the night. The tranquility of this magical place is amazing, and this is really a great spot to recharge. Rustic hut, outhouse, and no showers.
Distance: 7-10 km
Ascent/descent: 150 m
Walking time: 5-6 hrs
Day 5: Álftavötn - Strútur
Today we continue along the river Syðri Ófæra, crossing once again the Canyon of Fire, Eldgjá. The landscape changes from green meadows to black sands with bright green streaks of moss. Along the way, we come to the natural pool Strútslaug, right after fording the river Hólmsá. After warming up and relaxing in the pool, we conclude the day’s march walking to the hut at Strútur where we spend the night. Comfortable hut, WC, and showers available.
Distance: 24 km
Ascent/descent: 300 m
Walking time: 7-8 hrs
Day 6: Strútur - Hvanngil
Leaving the comfortable hut, we set out for the day’s trek along the Mýrdalssandur, the black volcanic sand plain. We need to cross some of the rivers, so it's better to have our river crossing shoes ready. The mystical landscape of Hvanngil valley greets us, and we are yet amazed at the wonders of the Icelandic landscape. Comfortable hut, WC, and showers available.
Distance: 14-18 km
Ascent/descent: 150 m
Walking time: 5-6 hrs
Day 7: Hvanngil - Álftavatn – Reykjavík
After breakfast, we pack our things and get ready for the day’s hike exploring the side trails of the Laugavegur hiking trail. We proceed along the river Kaldaklofskvísl, admiring the eerie green Stórasúla mountain on the other side. The river winds along, and after a climb up the small pass of Brattháls, we see lake Álftavatn (“Swan lake”). Here we get onto the bus for Reykjavík, taking leave of our guide and the hikers continuing on the Volcanic Trails for the last section. Arrival in Reykjavík at 19:00 where the tour ends at the Reykjavík Bus Terminal. Distance: 5-7 km
Ascent/descent: 300 m
Walking time: 3-4 hrs
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