Highlands and Remote Wilderness

Why Iceland's Highlands Define Wilderness Adventure

Iceland's central highlands represent one of Europe's last great wilderness frontiers—a 40,000-square-kilometre expanse of volcanic deserts, glacial rivers, and otherworldly landscapes that remain virtually unchanged since the island's settlement. Unlike wilderness areas elsewhere that require weeks of trekking to reach, Iceland's highlands offer accessible remoteness, where 4WD tracks lead to landscapes so alien they've doubled for Mars in Hollywood productions.

The highlands' unique geological activity creates an ever-evolving canvas. Active volcanic systems, geothermal fields reaching 100°C, and glacial outburst floods reshape the terrain seasonally, offering wilderness experiences impossible to replicate elsewhere on Earth.

Essential Highland Destinations

Landmannalaugar

The crown jewel of highland hiking, Landmannalaugar sits within the Fjallabak Nature Reserve at 600 metres elevation. Its rhyolite mountains display impossible colour palettes—russet reds, sulphur yellows, and obsidian blacks—created by millennia of volcanic activity. The natural geothermal pool here maintains 38°C year-round, offering the ultimate wilderness bathing experience.

The area serves as the southern terminus of the legendary Laugavegur trail, but day hikers can explore Bláhnjúkur (943m) or the Laugahraun lava field. Access requires F-roads (highland tracks) passable only by 4WD vehicles or scheduled highland buses operating June through September.

Askja and Víti Crater

Deep in the Vatnajökull National Park, Askja caldera represents Iceland's most remote major attraction. The 50-square-kilometre caldera formed during catastrophic eruptions in 1875, creating a moonscape so convincing that NASA trained Apollo astronauts here in 1967.

Within Askja lies Víti crater, containing a milky blue geothermal lake perfect for swimming in 25°C waters surrounded by volcanic desolation. The journey from Ring Road requires 90 kilometres on F88, taking 2.5 hours each way in a capable 4WD vehicle.

Þórsmörk (Thorsmork)

Protected by three glaciers—Tindfjallajökull, Eyjafjallajökull, and Mýrdalsjökull—Þórsmörk creates a microclimate supporting birch forests and wildflower meadows amid highland desert. This 'Valley of Thor' offers everything from gentle forest walks to challenging glacier approaches.

Þórsmörk requires fording multiple glacial rivers, making it accessible only via specially modified highland buses or experienced 4WD drivers with river-crossing experience. The final approach involves crossing the treacherous Krossá river system.

Sprengisandur

Iceland's largest highland desert stretches 200 kilometres across the island's centre, offering the purest wilderness solitude. The F26 highland track bisects this volcanic wasteland, passing beneath Hofsjökull glacier and alongside the Tungnaá river system.

This route epitomises highland travel—vast distances between landmarks, unpredictable weather, and genuine isolation where mechanical failure becomes serious. However, those prepared for the challenge experience Iceland's most pristine wilderness.

Seasonal Access and Timing

Highland access operates on nature's schedule, not tourism convenience. F-roads typically open between mid-June and September, with exact dates varying annually based on snowmelt and river conditions. The Icelandic Road and Coastal Administration (Vegagerðin) provides real-time F-road status updates.

**Peak Season (July-August):** Optimal conditions but maximum crowds at accessible locations like Landmannalaugar. Highland buses operate regularly, and river crossings remain manageable.

**Shoulder Season (June, September):** Fewer visitors and dramatic weather changes. Rivers can be impassable after rainfall, and sudden snowfall may close routes overnight.

**Winter Access:** Essentially impossible except for specialized glacier expeditions. F-roads remain buried under snow until May.

Practical Planning Essentials

Vehicle Requirements

Highland exploration demands properly equipped 4WD vehicles with high clearance. Rental costs range from 25,000-45,000 ISK daily for suitable vehicles. Comprehensive insurance becomes essential—basic coverage excludes F-road damage and river crossings.

Essential Gear

Highland weather changes rapidly from summer warmth to near-freezing conditions. Pack layers including waterproof outer shells, warm insulation, and sturdy hiking boots. Emergency shelter, satellite communication devices, and extra food prove vital for remote areas.

Costs and Logistics

Highland bus services connect major destinations: Reykjavík to Landmannalaugar costs approximately 15,000 ISK return. Guided super-jeep tours range from 35,000-65,000 ISK per person for day trips to Askja or Þórsmörk.

Camping remains the primary accommodation option, with basic highland huts costing 8,000-12,000 ISK per person nightly where available.

Fitness and Experience Requirements

Highland adventures scale from moderate day hikes to extreme wilderness expeditions. Landmannalaugar day walks require standard hiking fitness, while Askja expeditions demand comfort with isolation and basic mechanical knowledge for vehicle problems.

River crossings and navigation in GPS-defeating terrain require genuine 4WD experience. First-time highland visitors should consider guided tours or stick to popular routes like Landmannalaugar before attempting remote destinations independently.

Iceland's Highland Advantage

Unlike wilderness areas requiring multi-day approaches, Iceland's highlands offer immediate immersion in pristine landscapes. Active geology creates constantly evolving scenery impossible to experience elsewhere, while the absence of dangerous wildlife allows focus on landscape and weather challenges rather than predator concerns.

Most remarkably, these vast wildernesses remain genuinely accessible to determined travellers, offering authentic wilderness experiences within day-trip distance of Reykjavík's comforts.

Planning to drive Iceland’s famous Ring Road? Hire a car through Discover Cars — compare hundreds of rental options, find the best deals, and book with free cancellation.

Browse and book tours and activities on GetYourGuide — glacier hikes, whale watching, northern lights tours, Golden Circle day trips and hundreds more. Instant confirmation, free cancellation on most bookings.

Looking for the best car rental deals in Iceland? Compare prices from all major rental companies with Northbound — Iceland’s largest car rental comparison site. Free cancellation included.

Planning a trip to Iceland? Make sure you travel with peace of mind — SafetyWing offers flexible Nomad Insurance from $56.28/4 weeks, covering medical emergencies, trip interruptions, and adventure activities. Perfect for Iceland's unpredictable weather and remote landscapes.