Iceland has hiking for every level, from short marked trails to multi-day treks in the highlands.
The best time of year to go hiking in Iceland
Hiking in Iceland is best during the long summer days. Summer is the most popular time to visit the national park, and highland areas open as the snow melts.
The rescue teams' highland patrol is only on duty in summer. Mountain huts are locked and unmanned in winter.
Iceland's best-known hiking routes
Popular hiking routes include the Laugavegur trail between Landmannalaugar and Thorsmork, Fimmvorduhals, Lonsoraefi, Hornstrandir and Vatnaleid.
The Laugavegur trail starts at Landmannalaugar.
Hikers can find a variety of marked hiking routes in Iceland's national parks and at Hornstrandir.
Day hikes in Skaftafell
Skaftafell's marked trails range from short easy loops near the visitor centre to full-day mountain routes for experienced hikers.
What to wear and pack for hiking in Iceland
Wool and synthetic layers are best outdoors, and cotton should be avoided. Visit Iceland's clothing advice for the outdoors is layers.
Hikers should bring a hat, gloves, a waterproof jacket and trousers, a GPS or offline map, a compass and a power bank.
Use the Packing List to help plan your trip.
Staying safe on Iceland's hiking trails
The weather in Iceland changes fast and is very unpredictable. Hikers should check the weather every day, even twice a day.
Trail markers can be impossible to see when visibility is poor. Every traveller should leave a travel plan with someone who can react if something goes wrong.
In an emergency, call 112. The combination of cold temperature, strong wind and rain can be fatal.
Iceland's law allows camping for one night in a traditional tent on uncultivated land when no campsite is nearby. In national parks and nature reserves, including Hornstrandir and along the Laugavegur trail, visitors must camp only at designated campsites.
Hikers should follow marked footpaths, which protect both people and nature.
Compare guided hiking tours in the highlands
You can compare highland tours to see the current options.
