Lonsöraefi Trek 2025: Discovering the End of the World
Seven days of independent trekking in the colorful rhyolite mountains of Lónsöræfi, at the edges of Vatnajökull.
Duration
6 days
From
€2,100/pers.
Ideal seasons
Jun, Jul, Aug
Style
Expeditions
Comfort
rustique
Travelers
Solo, With friends
The spirit of travel
A trek that will give you the feeling of having reached the end of the world, with a unique sense of freedom throughout the hike. Enjoy this experience in complete autonomy, with no network, no roads for vehicles. This 6-day epic offers you both adventure and comfort, with shelters among the most beautiful in Iceland.
Walking level: moderate to difficult.
The Lónsöræfi nature reserve, located in South-East Iceland, is part of Vatnajökull national park. This wild region consists of steep rhyolite mountains and deep valleys, with the glacier nearby. You will be surrounded by strange geological formations, composed of palagonite, which give this region an almost mythological appearance, populated by trolls... If you are seeking adventure and breathtaking landscapes, join us for this unique trek in the heart of the colorful mountains of Lónsöræfi.
This trek can be combined with a longer stay for an in-depth discovery of Iceland, with a recommended minimum of 12 days on site.
The stages of your journey
Highlights
Day-by-day itinerary
From Höfn to the Wild Valleys of Lónsöræfi
Höfn → Múlaskáli
Your adventure begins in Höfn, at the gates of the vast glacial expanse of southeast Iceland.
After meeting your guide, you head towards the starting point of the trek, where roads gradually fade away to give way to one of the country's most secluded regions.
From the first steps, an ancient pastoral trail leads you to the heart of the Jökulsá í Lóni valley. The tumultuous glacial river accompanies your progression as the reliefs gradually reveal themselves. Mountains with changing hues rise on either side of the path, ravines cut into the slopes, and torrents flowing from the glaciers draw a raw landscape where water and rock seem to have shaped every detail. Here, human presence fades quickly, leaving all its space to sovereign nature. With a bit of luck, a reindeer appears on the slopes or an arctic fox furtively crosses your route, reminding you that this land remains one of Europe's last great wild spaces.
At the end of this first day, the Múlaskáli refuge unveils itself in an environment of absolute tranquility. Surrounded by mountains and vast mineral expanses, it offers a first evening out of time, where silence is only disturbed by the wind and the murmur of glacial rivers.
As is often the case in Iceland, this itinerary remains subject to weather conditions. To fully enjoy the landscapes and ensure the best hiking conditions, your guide may adapt certain stages according to the weather or the condition of the trails.
From the Trollakrókar gorges to Lake Kollumúlavatn
Múlaskáli → Egilssel
From the Múlaskáli refuge, the trail gently climbs up the valley before rising towards the steep reliefs of Lónsöræfi. As you gain altitude, the landscapes become increasingly spectacular. The sheer walls of the Trollakrókar gorges tower before you, sculpted by millennia of erosion, offering a setting as wild as it is impressive.
The hike continues along the Jökulsá í Lóni river, whose glacial waters wind through the valley floor. A magnificent waterfall punctuates the route before several crossings of small streams, characteristic of this region shaped by glaciers. Gradually, the Kollumúlavatn lake appears, bringing a touch of serenity to this mineral landscape.
Perched on a ridge overlooking the lake, the Egilssel refuge marks the end of this day's journey. From this natural vantage point, panoramas open onto the coloured mountains of Lónsöræfi, offering an exceptional setting to enjoy the tranquility of the place before another night in the wilderness.
Elevation gain: +600 m
Exploration of the heights of Lónsöræfi
Egilssel → Egilssel
This day is dedicated to exploring the surroundings of Egilssel. For the first time since the beginning of the trek, you leave your main backpack at the refuge and set out with just a day pack, offering lighter walking and greater freedom of movement.
The loop itinerary takes you through the most unspoiled landscapes of Lónsöræfi. The trails wind between verdant valleys, rhyolite outcrops in ochre and pink hues, glacial torrents and viewpoints that reveal the full grandeur of this nature reserve. At every turn, the panoramas renew themselves, alternating between colourful mountains, deep valleys and glaciers that dominate the horizon.
After this immersion in pristine nature, you return to Egilssel refuge for a second night, with the feeling of having explored one of Iceland's most exclusive territories.
Elevation gain: +400 m / -400 m
From the shores of Kollumúlavatn to Múlaskáli
Egilssel → Múlaskáli
After leaving the Egilssel shelter, you cross the stream that flows from Kollumúlavatn lake before reaching the vast mineral expanses of Lónsöræfi. The trail crosses a stone universe where scree, volcanic rocks and reliefs sculpted by glaciers make up an almost surreal landscape. In this silent immensity, Iceland reveals one of its wildest faces, evoking in places a truly lunar landscape.
As you descend, nature subtly changes character. The first touches of vegetation reappear in the form of dwarf willows and heather that bring delicate notes of color to this mineral setting. Further down, the banks of the Jökulsá í Lóni welcome a few birch groves, rare witnesses to denser vegetation in this isolated region.
At the end of the day, you reach the Múlaskáli shelter, where you settle in for two nights. This stop allows you to fully enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of Lónsöræfi and admire the rhyolite mountains which, depending on the light, take on a stunning palette of colors.
Elevation gain: +300 m / -700 m
Meeting the ice of Vatnajökull
Múlaskáli → Múlaskáli
Leaving the Múlaskáli refuge with just a day pack, you set out to explore the surrounding area along a route that brings you back to your accommodation in the late afternoon. This stage offers the opportunity to discover new vistas without changing refuges, while getting closer to the impressive glacial tongues of the Vatnajökull.
As you walk, volcanic landscapes gradually give way to the eternal ice of Europe's largest glacier. Shades of blue and white contrast with dark rocks shaped by ancient eruptions, creating a landscape of remarkable power. In the silence of Iceland's vast expanses, only the trickle of meltwater and the distant crackling of the glacier accompany your progress.
After admiring these magnificent panoramas, you return to the Múlaskáli refuge for a final evening in the heart of this wild region, far from any road and commotion.
Elevation gain: +500 m / -500 m
End of your adventure
Múlaskáli → Höfn
For this final day of hiking, you take the trails that wind through the wild landscapes of Lónsöræfi. The deep gorges, the reliefs shaped by glaciers and the numerous viewpoints offer a final opportunity to admire this grand nature that has accompanied you for several days.
As you advance, the mountains gradually move away, marking the end of this crossing through one of the most isolated regions of Islande. After approximately six hours of hiking, you reach the meeting point where your vehicle awaits to take you to Höfn.
You arrive in late afternoon, around 5 p.m., with memories of an off-the-beaten-path adventure, punctuated by spectacular landscapes and privileged moments in the heart of Icelandic nature. Elevation gain: +500 m / -500 m
Your driver will then take you back to Höfn.
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
- Airport transfer from the international airport to Höfn meeting point for the trek
- Accommodation and additional nights before and/or after the trek
Included
- 5 Nights in refuge dormitory with sleeping bag (not provided)
- All meals from dinner on day 1 to lunch on day 6
- Guidance for hikes by an experienced guide
- Round-trip transport between Höfn and the trek start/end point
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
This stay is planned in a small group of 4 to 8 participants.
Hikes : Hikes of moderate to difficult level due to carrying your belongings and food. An average of 6 hours of hiking per day is planned. You need to be in sufficiently good physical condition to keep up with the pace and the stages. The itinerary can be slightly modified depending on the weather and climatic conditions, your guide will adapt the itinerary accordingly.
Baggage : It is important to note that you will have to carry your own equipment throughout this hike (personal belongings, sleeping bag and food). Organize your belongings as best as possible and try to be as light as possible in your choices. Your clothes and sleeping bag must be in insulating bags. It will be possible to leave some of your belongings in Reykjavik for those extending their stay. The refuges have bags and blankets, so a "sleeping bag liner" is sufficient. We will also change refuges very little, so 2 days will be without carrying all your belongings. The maximum weight of the backpack is 12 kgs.
Transport : Before and after the trek, transfers are carried out in a comfortable minibus.
Accommodation : Nights in comfortable and well-equipped refuges. Beds in dormitories with sleeping bag (not provided). In Iceland, the refuges have toilets and showers in separate buildings. Most refuges have hot water showers where time is limited to a few minutes (included in the price).
Food : Cuisine with a vegetarian tendency based on delicious quality organic products. Hearty "Scandinavian" breakfast, lunch picnic with salads, biscuits and hot drinks. In the evening a hearty and convivial dinner based on local specialties and products: lake trout, lamb leg, vegetables, potatoes, salad and excellent dairy products including blueberry skyr. It is essential that any special diet or food allergy be clearly stated at the time of registration. For the conviviality of the group, but nothing mandatory, we recommend that everyone bring a small specialty from their region (biscuits, cheese, wine, etc.).
Participation : We ask trip members to lend a hand and help the guide with meal preparation.
Extension of stay : Please contact us. You may not return to Iceland anytime soon and extending your trip with a self-drive tour is the best option to make the most of your stay. Be careful, decide to extend your stay in advance, as having your airline ticket changed on site can be expensive, or even impossible!
Our commitments
* Responsible tourism : We choose service providers committed to more environmentally respectful tourism.
* English-speaking guide : An Iceland expert guide will accompany you throughout the trek, ensuring you an enriching experience.
* Program flexibility : The program is given for informational purposes and adapts according to the weather and current desires.
* Reforestation of Iceland : We contribute to reforestation with the planting of approximately 1 tree per person.
* Local agency : You are assured of working with a local agency, expert in trekking in Iceland.
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
