Road trip in Iceland and trek to the Gates of Hell

Today marks the start of your trek. You will meet your guide and companions in Reykjavík, then depart by minibus for Hella, your operational base.

Upon arrival, you will prepare your picnic lunch and check your equipment. Your guides will load everything onto the support vehicle's trailer for a comfortable 40-minute transfer. This drive will take you to the starting point of the hike, near the farms located at the southern foot of the mighty Hekla volcano.

At the edge of the Hekla River, you'll turn east onto the slag heap track of the Valley of Judgment ( Dómadalur ). You'll soon arrive at the foot of the magnificent Hrafntinnusker Caldera. You'll climb its northern flank to reach its summit, then traverse it southward. This route leads you into the heart of the breathtaking rhyolitic massifs of Landmannalaugar. Observe an incredible palette of pastel colors—ranging from vibrant blues to soft pinks and all shades of ochre.

As you continue, you will observe countless geothermal phenomena: bubbling mud pools, powerful fumaroles, and flows of black, vitrified obsidian. You will cross the vast obsidian flow of Mount Hrafntinnusker, observing the powerful and noisy jets of steam that confirm the raw energy of the earth beneath your feet.

Today, your journey takes you down to the spectacular South Fjallabak region. As you walk, you'll be able to admire the striking alignment of the mountain ranges, all perfectly parallel. These ridges run in the exact direction of the Mid-Atlantic Ridge , the geological fault that cuts across Iceland from north to south, constantly pulling the island apart.

In good weather, you will enjoy a spectacular panoramic view of three massive ice caps: Mýrdalsjökull, Eyjafjallajökull and Tindafjallajökull.

The trail guides you along a long, thick palagonite ridge that stretches southwest toward the imposing Tindfjöll alpine massif. This elevated path acts as a natural balcony overlooking the entire region. To the north, observe a vast territory dominated by the Hekla volcanic system, painted in intense blacks and reds. Look south to see a contrasting gray landscape, vividly punctuated by vibrant green vegetation—a jumble of jagged, worn mountains born from ancient eruptions beneath glacial ice.

In a quiet fold of this same ridge, you'll discover a magnificent lake with crystal-clear waters. The apparent tranquility of this place, like much of Iceland, is actually the result of immense geological power. This is Skyggnisvatn , a maar formed by a powerful phreatic eruption, a hidden gem perfectly set in the landscape.

Today's hike takes you through a series of smaller areas, leading you directly to the foot of the Tindfjöll massif. This route is a feast for the eyes, traversing vibrant green valleys where crystal-clear streams meander peacefully.

You will cross marshes dotted with delicate cotton grass and skirt magnificent rolling green hills. Look down into deep canyons sculpted by time and water, revealing layers of Iceland's history.

Today's destination is Krókur, which means "the hook." This place takes its name from a sharp bend in the Markarfljót River. Here, a powerful turquoise river carves its way through the landscape, winding dramatically between volcanic cones completely covered in vibrant green moss. This contrast between the sparkling water and the dense green moss offers a moment of intense natural beauty.

Today you complete your horseshoe loop by approaching the Tindfjöll massif, nicknamed "The Peaks". This small but majestic mountain range features distinct summits, including the impressive Ýmir (1,462 m) and Ýma (1,448 m), whose names are taken from Norse mythology about the very creation of the world.

Although the Tindafjallajökull glacier is one of Iceland's smaller ice caps, it sits atop an ancient, giant crater, spanning an area of ​​seven to ten miles. You'll traverse a vast, desolate expanse between Tindfjöll and the dominant Hekla volcanic system to the north, completing your incredible high-altitude trek.

In the early afternoon, your return journey begins. You'll depart by jeep, taking the Fjallabak Sud track southwest. You'll first traverse the volcanic plains southeast of Hekla, followed by a fast and scenic descent through beautiful moorland and lush meadows, arriving at your base in Hella by mid-afternoon. From Hella, you'll enjoy a comfortable transfer to Reykjavík, arriving in the early evening, ready to reflect on the breathtaking landscapes you've traversed.

Today your flexible self-drive adventure begins as you pick up your vehicle in Reykjavík. Your first route is the legendary Golden Circle , an easy-to-manage loop connecting three essential sites.

Start with Þingvellir National Park , a UNESCO World Heritage Site where you can hike through the rift valley between the vast North American and Eurasian tectonic plates. Then, visit the Geysir geothermal area to witness the reliable eruption of Strokkur, which shoots boiling water high into the air every few minutes.

End your journey at Gullfoss waterfall , where the powerful glacial waters of the Hvítá River plunge over two impressive tiers into a deep canyon. Stand on the viewing platforms to feel the mist and appreciate the raw power of nature.

After this day of incredible geological sites, you will settle into a comfortable country hotel nearby.

Optional activities:

1. Snorkeling in the Silfra Fissure
2. Riding the Icelandic horse
3. Snowmobiling on a glacier

Today, you'll travel along the stunning South Coast , a region of breathtaking drama. Your first stop is the elegant Seljalandsfoss waterfall, where you can walk completely behind the cascading curtain of water. Nearby, discover the hidden gem of Gljúfrabúi , secretly nestled in a small, mossy gorge.

Next, you will encounter the powerful Skógafoss waterfall. You can walk to its base to feel its mist or climb the stairs for breathtaking views of the coast.

Continue your journey to the black sand beach of Reynisfjara . The contrast is spectacular: black volcanic sand meets the powerful white foam of the Atlantic. Observe the impressive basalt columns rising from the beach and the imposing Reynisdrangar sea stacks just offshore.

You'll pass through the charming coastal village of Vík , the southernmost point of Iceland, before driving east. Your day ends at your comfortable accommodation near the town of Kirkjubæjarklaustur , ready for further exploration to the east.

Optional activities:

1. Glacier hike
2. Quad biking (ATV) excursion on the black sand beach and the plane wreck
3. Horseback riding on the black beach

Today is dedicated to exploring the majesty of Vatnajökull National Park , a vast area defined by the largest ice cap in Europe. Your journey takes you to the breathtaking glacial lagoon of Jökulsárlón . Here, monumental icebergs, calved by a nearby outlet glacier, drift silently across the deep blue water, creating an unforgettable spectacle of light and form.

Watch these icebergs drift slowly towards the ocean, running aground on the nearby shore known as Diamond Beach . The clear, polished pieces of ice sparkle on the black sand, resembling scattered diamonds.

Later, you will visit the Skaftafell Nature Reserve , a verdant oasis nestled beneath the massive ice cap. Enjoy the many hiking trails here. The most rewarding route leads to Svartifoss waterfall, remarkable for the dark, hexagonal basalt columns that frame its cascade, giving it a unique and architectural appearance.

After a day spent observing the incredible power of Iceland's ice and fire landscapes, you will return to your comfortable accommodation in Kirkjubæjarklaustur for the night.

Optional activities:

1. Glacier hike in Skaftafell
2. Boat trip on the glacial lagoon

Today you begin your journey back to Reykjavík, but not without one last day of incredible sightseeing.

Your first stop is the magnificent Fjaðrárgljúfur Canyon . This ancient serpentine gorge features steep walls covered in vibrant moss. Take the scenic trail along its rim for breathtaking views of the 100-meter-deep chasm, a powerful demonstration of glacial erosion.

Next, set off in search of the beautiful hidden waterfall of Kvernufoss . A short, rewarding walk takes you into a gorge where you can walk behind the falling curtain of water, offering a unique misty perspective.

Finally, visit the spectacular coastal headland of Dyrhólaey . Here, you'll enjoy sweeping panoramic views. Look east to the black sands of Reynisfjara and west to admire the gigantic natural rock arch rising majestically from the Atlantic.

After this final exploration, you will continue your journey to Reykjavík, where you will arrive in the early evening.

Optional activities:

1. Katla Ice Cave
2. Lava Show

Today marks the end of your incredible 10-day journey. It's time to say goodbye to the land of fire and ice.

If your flight is later in the day, you have the perfect opportunity for one last exploration of Reykjavík. Pack your bags and use these final hours to revisit a favorite spot or discover a cozy café. You could browse the city's unique boutiques or take one last stroll along the harbor.

When the time comes, you will drive to Keflavík International Airport and drop off your rental car. As you depart, you can look back on the vibrant colors of Landmannalaugar, the thundering power of Gullfoss, and the silent majesty of the glacial lagoons.

You leave with a wealth of memories and adventures. Just say "Sjáumst" , or "see you soon", to Iceland — the kind of place that always calls to you.

Optional activities:

1. Blue Lagoon
2. Sky Lagoon