Adventure in 4x4 in the Heart of the Highlands
Cross the Icelandic highlands on trails closed nine months a year
Duration
12 days
From
€2,500/pers.
Ideal seasons
Jun, Jul, Aug
Style
Self-drive tour
Comfort
rustique
Travelers
Solo, With friends, Couple
The spirit of travel
This itinerary is designed for travelers seeking authentic Islande less frequented, even during peak season. It will allow you to experience an extraordinary adventure, away from the crowds. The center of Islande, the largest preserved space in Europe, invites you to explore. This trip is ideal from late June to mid-September with a 4x4.
It is also an ideal experience to share with family, an opportunity to disconnect from screens and social networks, for a genuine moment of conviviality.
The following itinerary is indicative and will be tailored to your needs and preferences.
The stages of your journey
Highlights
Day-by-day itinerary
Welcome to Iceland!
From Aéroport international de Keflavík
Upon arrival at the airport, you pick up your 4x4 vehicle and begin your Icelandic adventure. The road crosses the Reykjanes peninsula, with its vast lava fields and volcanic landscapes, before reaching the Gullfoss region, where you spend your first night.
Exploration of the Highlands
Driving
You enter the Highlands via the Kjölur track (F35), one of Iceland's most spectacular routes. This road takes you to the Kerlingarfjöll mountains, a rhyolitic massif with stunning colors, renowned for its significant geothermal activity and numerous fumaroles.
To Hveravellir
You continue your itinerary on the Kjölur track towards the geothermal oasis of Hveravellir.
In the heart of the Highlands, Hveravellir reveals a landscape of hot springs, fumaroles and impressive solfataras. Enjoy a natural bath in this unique geothermal oasis and savor a coffee surrounded by glaciers that dominate the horizon.
From Hveravellir
You then continue your journey to your accommodation, crossing the vast wild expanses of the Icelandic Highlands.
Trollaskagi Coast and Discovery of the North
Kjölur → Akureyri
You reach the coast of the Tröllaskagi peninsula by passing through several fishing villages, before arriving in Akureyri, nicknamed the capital of the North.
Enjoy a break in this pleasant town nestled at the end of Eyjafjörður. You can have lunch on the fjord's edge or take a walk in the botanical garden, one of the most northern in the world.
Akureyri → Goðafoss
You then continue on the road to Goðafoss, the famous "waterfall of the gods", whose waters plunge in a wide arc in the heart of a basaltic landscape.
Continue your itinerary towards the Jökulsá á Fjöllum gorges to discover Dettifoss, considered the most powerful waterfall in Europe. Its impressive flow and the wild landscapes surrounding it make it one of the most spectacular sites in northern Iceland.
To Mývatn
At the end of the day, you return to your accommodation, after a day filled with fjords, majestic waterfalls and some of the most iconic landscapes in northern Iceland.
Askja Volcano
You enter the highlands to admire the Askja volcano, which stands majestically in the middle of a pumice stone desert. The crater lake and its surroundings offer an impressive spectacle, where you can feel all the power of the natural elements.
You leave northeast Iceland to venture into the Highlands. The tracks cross vast desert expanses, offering an immersion into one of the wildest territories in the country, all the way to the Askja volcano.
From the parking lot, you reach the Askja volcano on foot. The trail crosses a mineral landscape before reaching the vast crater lake Öskjuvatn and the Víti crater, whose turquoise waters contrast with the surrounding volcanic rocks. This spectacular site bears witness to the power of the geological forces that continue to shape Islande.
Askja → Mývatn
At the end of the day, you head back on the trail to reach your accommodation, after immersing yourself in the heart of Iceland's most isolated volcanic landscapes.
Myvatn & its volcanic landscapes
Mývatn → Hverfjall Volcano Trail
You start your day by climbing the Hverfjall crater, one of the most iconic volcanoes in the region. From its summit, a vast panorama opens onto Lake Mývatn and the surrounding volcanic landscapes.
Hverfjall Volcano Trail → Lava Field Dimmuborgir
You continue towards the lava fields of Dimmuborgir, where impressive rock formations shaped by ancient lava flows create an almost surreal landscape. Take time to explore the various trails available.
From Lava Field Dimmuborgir
You then visit the Grjótagjá lava cave, famous for its hot spring with crystalline waters nestled in the heart of a volcanic fissure.
Driving
To Skútustaðir
End your day with a walk among the pseudo-craters of Skútustaðir, stunning formations born from the encounter between molten lava and the waters of Lake Mývatn.
Skútustaðir → Mývatn
You return to your accommodation after a day devoted to discovering the most iconic volcanic landscapes in the Mývatn region.
Adventure on the Sprengisandur Trail
From Mývatn
You join the northern entrance of the famous Sprengisandur track (F26), one of Iceland's most isolated roads. Before venturing into the Highlands, remember to fill up with fuel and stock up on enough water and supplies.
You cross the vast desert expanses of Sprengisandur, between the glaciers Hofsjökull to the west and Vatnajökull to the east. This section of track crosses several fords and offers some of the most wild landscapes in the country.
Continue your route to Laugafell, where a natural hot spring allows you to enjoy a pleasant break in the heart of the Highlands.
You finish this great crossing of the Highlands by reaching Hrauneyjar, gateway to southern Iceland, where you spend the night.
Arrival at Landmannalaugar
You leave Hrauneyjar to reach Landmannalaugar, one of the most iconic sites in Iceland. Magnificent hikes await you there, offering spectacular panoramas.
After a day of adventure, enjoy a hot river for a well-deserved bath.
Exploration de la faille d'Eldgjá et de Langisjór
Landmannalaugar → Faille d'Eldgjá
You continue your journey to the Eldgjá fissure, the world's largest volcanic rift. A pleasant hike allows you to discover this impressive geological formation and the Ófærufoss waterfall, nestled in the heart of the canyon.
From Faille d'Eldgjá
You then take the track leading to Lake Langisjór, one of the most beautiful lakes in the Icelandic Highlands. Surrounded by mountains and dominated by glaciers, this site offers spectacular panoramas in a particularly wild environment.
Black Desert and Glacier
You continue your adventure in the remote region of Maelifellsandur, one of the least visited areas of Islande. This region is full of fascinating points of interest, such as the Raudibotn crater, the Strutur mountain and its hot springs nearby, renowned for being among the most beautiful in Islande. You will also discover the black desert and the magical mountain of Maelifell, unique landscapes that will leave you speechless.
To Mælifellssandur
You continue your adventure in the remote region of Maelifellsandur, one of the least visited areas of Islande. This region is full of fascinating points of interest, such as the Raudibotn crater, the Strutur mountain and its hot springs nearby, renowned for being among the most beautiful in Islande. You will also discover the black desert and the magical mountain of Maelifell, unique landscapes that will leave you speechless.
Crossing the Fjallabak and arrival at Hella
From Mælifellssandur
You continue your crossing of the Fjallabak region, literally "behind the mountains". In this isolated environment, the trails wind between black desert, lava fields and volcanic reliefs, with glaciers in the background. The Hraftinnusker plateau marks an emblematic stage of this journey through the highlands.
You gradually leave the highlands to descend towards the south coast of Iceland. The landscapes evolve over the kilometers, shifting from desert vastness to the lush plains of the south. You reach the small town of Hella, situated near glacial rivers, a transition point between the wild interior worlds and the more populated coast. The varied and impressive landscapes of this region have inspired many films, representing the beauty of other worlds and offering a breathtaking natural spectacle.
Reykjavik, Iceland's cultural gateway
You arrive in Reykjavik in the morning and enjoy a free day to explore the city center. Stroll through the colorful streets and around the charming small harbor.
Do not miss the Harpa cultural centre, a true architectural feat in glass and steel, as well as the magnificent Hallgrimskirkja church.
The city, lively and vibrant, is full of small boutiques and trendy restaurants. After your adventure in the Highlands, the atmosphere of Reykjavik, modern and lively, will offer you a fascinating contrast.
See you soon in Islande!
Reykjavik → Aéroport international de Keflavík
Price per person
Indicative price per person, based on double room. Each trip is customized according to your preferences.
This trip can be tailored to your preferences
This itinerary provides an excellent foundation for discovery, but it can be fully customized. Our local advisors build each trip tailored to your budget, dates and preferences.
Not included
- International flight
- Personal insurance cancellation-repatriation
Included
- Accommodation: Nights in mountain hut dormitory with sleeping bag or camping
- Car rental: 4x4 with unlimited mileage, taxes and SCDW insurance
- Optional activities: Kayaking, rafting, diving, glacier walking, hot springs
- Personalized Travel Journal: Detailed Day-by-Day Program
- On-site assistance: English-speaking contact available
Practical Information
Registration is considered firm and final after payment of a deposit of 30% of the total price and acceptance of the specific terms of sale.
The balance must be paid no later than 45 days before the departure date.
See our specific terms of sale for full details.
In the event of cancellation by the traveller, the following fees apply:
- Plus de 60 jours avant le départ : 40 % du prix total (acompte retenu)
- Entre 60 et 30 jours avant le départ : 50 % du prix total
- Moins de 30 jours avant le départ : 100 % du prix total
We strongly recommend taking out cancellation insurance. See our specific terms of sale for full details.
The information below concerns travelers who are nationals of the European Economic Area (EEA), Switzerland and Canada traveling to Iceland for a tourist stay. As entry rules may change, we recommend that you verify the information with the official authorities before your departure.
Passport and ID card
Iceland is a member of the Schengen area. Nationals of the EEA and Switzerland may enter Iceland with a valid passport or national ID card.
Canadian nationals must be in possession of a valid passport for the entire duration of their stay.
The travel document must be in good condition (no damaged, torn or altered pages).
Tourist stay without visa
Nationals of the European Economic Area and Switzerland benefit from freedom of movement within the Schengen area and may stay in Iceland for an unlimited duration for a tourist stay.
Canadian nationals benefit from a visa exemption for tourist stays in the Schengen area. This exemption allows a stay of up to 90 days within any 180-day period across all Schengen countries.
Authorities may request:
an exit ticket from the territory (return or onward flight),
proof of sufficient financial resources for the duration of the stay.
ETIAS (European Travel Information and Authorization System)
From the date the system comes into effect, Canadian nationals will be required to obtain an ETIAS authorization before traveling in the Schengen area, of which Iceland is a member.
This prior electronic authorization must be requested online before departure. It will apply to visa-exempt travelers and will allow certain information to be transmitted to the authorities:
passport information
travel details
personal and health information
We recommend that you check the progress and date of entry into force of ETIAS with the official authorities before your departure.
Traveling with children
Minors must hold their own valid travel document (passport or, for EEA and Swiss nationals, national ID card) covering the duration of the stay.
In some countries, when a minor travels without one of their parents, an authorization to leave the territory may be required under the regulations of the country of residence.
Other nationalities
Entry conditions may vary depending on nationality. Concerned travelers should inquire with the embassy or consulate of Iceland in their country of residence.
To participate in our trips, it is strongly advised to be covered for evacuation assistance and medical expenses abroad.
Your local agency encourages you to review the specific policy developed with our partner CHAPKA ASSURANCES and AXA ASSISTANCE.
To subscribe to an insurance plan, learn about coverage and rates, follow the link below.
CAP EXPLORER: The complete insurance solution designed to travel with peace of mind!
Choose the plan that best suits you:
Explorer'Multirisque
Explorer'Annulation
Explorer'Assistance
Explorer' Complémentaire Carte Bancaire
Specific to our trips, we strongly recommend subscribing to them.
If you choose to subscribe to one of these plans, the policy detailing all coverage and claim procedures are available on the insurer's website.
Your local agency will be aware of it, but only the participant is responsible for complying with claim reporting procedures. The participant must therefore keep this policy with them throughout their trip.
Practical Information
Itinerary: This self-drive tour is custom-designed according to your preferences. We leverage our local expertise and in-depth knowledge of Iceland to create a program tailored to your expectations. A detailed day-by-day itinerary will be provided for your reference, with overnight stops reserved in advance. We will provide you with an Iceland road map (1:600000) as well as a travel guide including all the information you need to make the most of your stay: supply points, must-see attractions, unusual sites to discover, tips for avoiding tourist traps and restaurant recommendations.
Vehicle: For this self-drive tour, it is mandatory to rent a 4x4 all-terrain vehicle. This type of vehicle is the only one capable of navigating interior tracks and crossing fords, which are essential for exploring the most remote regions of the island.
Accommodation: We prioritize mountain huts for this itinerary to allow you to stay as close as possible to the wild areas of the island's interior. The huts are comfortable, heated with gas and equipped for cooking. You will need to bring your own food, but drinking water is available on site. Hot showers (for a fee) and toilets are located in a separate building. Beds are in dormitories with sleeping bag (not provided). In some cases, small chalets are available for families (generally from 5 people onwards). Since accommodation can be limited in these isolated regions, it is important to book early to guarantee availability. Contact us for any specific requests.
Travel Period: This itinerary is available only between mid-June and end of September, when interior tracks are open and passable.
Our Commitments:
* Selection of service providers committed to responsible tourism.
* Fully personalized trip, designed according to your wishes.
* Refund of excursions not carried out for reasons beyond your control (weather, cancellation by the service provider).
* Contribution to Icelandic reforestation: 1 tree planted per person.
* Flexibility in bookings upon receipt of the travel guide, subject to availability.
* A local agency at your service for an authentic experience.
Iceland awaits you for a memorable adventure, off the beaten path.
Chapka — Cap Explorer
Our insurance partnerTravel with peace of mind with our partner Chapka. Cancellation, repatriation, medical expenses, baggage… All the coverage for a worry-free trip.
Travel with peace of mind — I'll handle the insuranceFrequently asked questions
No, Iceland is part of the Schengen area (outside the EU but associated). French nationals can travel there with a valid ID card or passport. The currency is the Icelandic króna. No special formalities upon arrival.
Go to the My Trips section to find all your projects.
You can send a message to your host directly from the Tea Lounge.
For a tailor-made quality trip, budget between €300 and €480 per day per person, including accommodation, meals, internal transportation, and activities. International flights (€200-500 return) are additional. Iceland is one of Europe's most expensive destinations.
Your documents are accessible in the Documents tab of your trip.
Absolutely. We adapt each itinerary to the traveler's profile. For families, we prioritize relaxed pacing, family-friendly accommodations, fun and educational activities, and comfortable private transfers. Our English-speaking local guides know how to capture children's attention with age-appropriate anecdotes.
It's simple. You exchange with our local team to define your wishes, budget and dates. You receive a detailed itinerary proposal within 48 hours. You adjust every detail together until it's perfect. You confirm and travel with peace of mind. Your local agency remains available 7 days a week throughout your trip.
In case of emergency, contact your local agency immediately.
Payment is generally made in two installments.
Our agency is part of the Nomadays network, registered in France. You benefit from APST guarantee (Association Professionnelle de Solidarité du Tourisme) which covers 100% of your funds. Secure payment, repatriation insurance included, and English-speaking assistance 24/7 on site throughout your stay.
Let's talk about your adventure — Central Highlands
Contemplative Explorer of Icelandic Lands, based in Helgafell, Akureyri
Iceland naturally invites you to slow down. When you embrace its rhythm, its silences and its spaces, the journey becomes a true inner experience.
— Jean-Marc
