Chasing Waterfalls and Thrills in Iceland's Remote Highlands

Tap into Iceland’s wild side on this exhilarating 10-day journey through the country’s natural wonders, with hot springs, black sand beaches, and plenty of puffins.

Country
Iceland
Duration
10 days / 9 nights
From
$4,150 /person
Book this trip

Your trip at a glance

Top Activities

Bathing in Iceland’s nutrient-rich geothermal pools overlooking volcanic terrain and fjords

Searching for majestic herds of wild reindeer in Iceland’s remote and rugged East Fjords

Road-tripping the spectacular Golden Circle and visiting Thingvellir National Park

Comparing waterfalls in the dramatic landscapes of Southern Iceland’s Thjorsardalur Valley

Hiking along dormant volcanic rims and behind plunging waterfalls on adventurous Highlands trails

  • Image
  • Image
  • Image
  • Image
  • Image
  • Image
  • Image
  • Image
  • Image
  • Image
  • Image
  • Image
Preview:

Hot Springs, Horses, and Highlands Hikes

shutterstock_2412745009.jpg

Overview

After breakfast, more Icelandic wonders await. Check out of your hotel and continue onward in your extraordinary road trip. Over the course of the day, you can choose to join a whitewater rafting tour, if you didn’t have the chance to float down the river yesterday. Given Iceland’s emphasis on horses, however, you can alternatively — or additionally — join an optional horseback riding tour with an equestrian guide. Just make sure to stop at Hveravellir, a hot springs fields, where you’ll have the chance to take a dip in a soothing geothermal pool. Soak in the spring’s healing qualities before continuing along your route. As you drive, you'll feel as though you've landed on the moon; watch as the landscapes give way to black sand deserts with a striking, otherworldly effect. From there, it's onward to the Saudarkrokur region for a comfortable night's rest. Before you check in to your next hotel, you can stop at Glaumbaer Turf Farm and Museum for a glimpse of life way back when.

Highlights

Glaumbaer Turf Farm and Museum (optional)

Not far from Varmahlid Village, Glaumbaer Turf Farm contains traditional turf buildings that date from the mid-18th century until 1879. On this optional stop, you’ll peek into the everyday lives of a bygone era. The farmhouse may seem small and cramped now, but the buildings were, in their day, considered large dwellings, where local clergymen once resided.

Horseback Riding Tour (optional)

Get to know and ride the Icelandic horse: a majestic breed that’s been recorded in literature and records throughout Icelandic history. Today, these horses still partake in traditional shepherding work, though they’re also used for leisure, showing, and racing. On this riding tour with an equestrian guide, you’ll meet an Icelandic horse for yourself, experiencing new landscapes from the back of a new friend.

Pool Soak in the Hveravellir Highlands (optional)

Prepare for your jaw to drop at the sight of this sprawling plain of gurgling hot springs. Located in the central Highlands, these thermal baths appear like an oasis amidst barren surroundings. Submerge yourself in the warm waters — and acquaint yourself with geothermal wellness.

Accommodations

Hofsstadir Country Hotel

This family-run country hotel is tucked away in a tranquil location on the banks of Austari-heradsvatn overlooking the fjord and the sea. The hotel´s 30 rooms have a private entrance as well as a terrace providing beautiful views of the surrounding area. At breakfast, guests can enjoy homemade bread and jam. The hotel´s summer restaurant features seasonal produce from the farm and local region on its menu. When not enjoying the panoramic views from inside the hotel or on the patio, guests can grab a cup of coffee or tea and relax.

Location:

Hofsstadir 551, Saudarkrokur

Phone:

+3544537300

  • Image
  • Image
  • Image
  • Image
  • Image
  • Image
  • Image
  • Image
  • Image
  • Image
  • Image
  • Image
  • Image
  • Image
  • Image
  • Image
  • Image
  • Image

How it works

01

Fill out request form

Provide your ideal trip dates and details to be matched with one of our local planning experts.

02

Meet your expert

Schedule a call with your expert to confirm dates, pricing and any recommended edits to the itinerary.

03

Book your trip

Once your itinerary is set, it’s time to pay the deposit to secure your trip.

04

Take-off

Let the journey begin! Your expert will offer real-time support and concierge service while traveling.

Ready to Go?

Let our local experts plan your dream trip.

What's included

Included in the final price

  • Roadbook with local tips and expert recommendations
  • 24/7 on-the-ground support
  • On-trip concierge service
  • Personalized trip crafting
  • COVID entry and exit information and assistance
  • Ten days of 4x4 rental vehicle or similar. Includes second driver, unlimited km, SCDW insurance, and airport pick-up and drop-off fees
  • Nine nights of accommodations, with breakfast included

Not included in the final price

  • International flights tickets
  • Travel insurance
  • Personal expenses and gratuities
  • Access to attractions and museums, unless otherwise stated
  • Car park fees
  • Anything not listed as included in the itinerary

Ready to see the full itinerary?

Submit a free request to talk with our local experts.

Let's Go
Day 1:
Velkomin to Iceland!
Day 2:
The Golden Circle's Gurgling Geysers and Plunging Waterfalls
Day 3:
Hot Springs, Horses, and Highlands Hikes
Day 4:
Geothermal and Natural Wonders in the Trollaskagi Peninsula and Lake Mývatn
Day 5:
Choose Your Own Adventure of Puffins, Waterfalls, and Lava Fields
Day 6:
Glittering Glaciers and Diamond Beaches of the East Fjords
Day 7:
Following the Trail of Eruptions in Fjallabak Nature Reserve
Day 8:
All the Falls in Thjorsardalur Valley
Day 9:
Black Sand Beaches and Thermal Treasures
Day 10:
Bless Bless: Goodbye for Now