Kerlingarfjöll Geothermal Highlands Day Tour from Reykjavik
Reykjavik, Iceland

Kerlingarfjöll Geothermal Highlands Day Tour from Reykjavik

Outty Ranking 67 4.6 · 25 traveler reviews11.5 hoursFrom €161
Instant mobile ticketSpots available today

Outty Ranking

67/100

Solid Choice. Our proprietary evaluation. How we score

Traveler rating

4.6/5

Based on 25 traveler reviews. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.

Quick answer

Is Kerlingarfjöll Geothermal Highlands Day Tour from Reykjavik worth booking?

Kerlingarfjöll Geothermal Highlands Day Tour from Reykjavik is a 11.5-hour experience in Reykjavik, Iceland, from €161 per person. It scores 67 out of 100 on the Outty Ranking, which we label “Solid Choice”, based on a 4.6/5 rating across 25 reviews. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the start time. Same-day spots are currently showing.

Outty Ranking
67 / 100
Rating
4.6/5 (25)
Duration
11.5 hours
From
€161 per person

Escape the crowds and discover one of Iceland’s best-kept secrets on this full-day adventure into the remote Highlands. Travel deep into the rugged interior to Kerlingarfjöll, a spectacular mountain range known for its steaming geothermal valleys, colorful rhyolite peaks, and otherworldly landscapes. Often compared to Mars, this hidden region offers a side of Iceland that few visitors ever experience. With your expert guide, enjoy a scenic small-group hike through the Hveradalir geothermal valley, where bubbling hot springs, steaming vents, and vivid mineral-stained hills create an unforgettable setting. Along the way, take in sweeping views of glaciers, highland rivers, and untouched wilderness far from the typical tourist routes. This tour is perfect for travellers looking to go beyond the Golden Circle and experience a more authentic, adventurous side of Iceland—without needing to self-drive into the Highlands.

What you get

    About this experience

    Escape the crowds and discover one of Iceland’s best-kept secrets on this full-day adventure into the remote Highlands. Travel deep into the rugged interior to Kerlingarfjöll, a spectacular mountain range known for its steaming geothermal valleys, colorful rhyolite peaks, and otherworldly landscapes. Often compared to Mars, this hidden region offers a side of Iceland that few visitors ever experience. With your expert guide, enjoy a scenic small-group hike through the Hveradalir geothermal valley, where bubbling hot springs, steaming vents, and vivid mineral-stained hills create an unforgettable setting. Along the way, take in sweeping views of glaciers, highland rivers, and untouched wilderness far from the typical tourist routes. This tour is perfect for travellers looking to go beyond the Golden Circle and experience a more authentic, adventurous side of Iceland—without needing to self-drive into the Highlands.

    What's included

    Included

    • Professional English-speaking guide
    • Small-group experience (max 19 travellers)
    • Transport in a specially equipped vehicle (Highlands access)
    • Reykjavík pickup and drop-off
    • Guided hike in Kerlingarfjöll Highlands

    Not included

    • Lunch
    • Snacks
    • Tea and coffee
    • Hiking gear not included (boots, waterproofs, hiking poles)

    What you'll see and do

    1. Reykjavik

      Our adventure begins with an 8 a.m. pick-up from Reykjavik at your chosen location from our pick-up list. Once everyone is on board, we'll depart the city and head towards the remote Icelandic highlands. After we've spent some time exploring the area and enjoying the geothermal wonders of Kerlingarfjöll, we'll head back to Reykjavík for an evening arrival.

      240 minutes here

    2. Gullfoss Falls

      We make a brief stop at Gullfoss where you can use the restroom and purchase snacks or lunch to go.

      20 minutes here

    3. Hveradalir

      The highlight of Kerlingarfjöll is the Hveradalir valley, a stunning and iconic landscape. Hveradalir, meaning ‘the Valley of the Hot Springs,’ is one of the largest geothermal valleys in Iceland. The site is surrounded by the colorful rhyolite mountains of the Kerlingarfjöll range, offering spectacular surroundings and excellent hiking opportunities. Some hot springs here are so powerful that they should only be admired from a safe distance. Please note that the duration of the hike depends on the trail and weather conditions but we aim to hike for around 2 hours.

      Pass by without stopping

    4. Kerlingarfjoll

      Our destination is Kerlingarfjöll, a volcanic mountain range in central Iceland, known for its steaming geothermal valleys, rushing glacial rivers, and breathtaking panoramic views. We’ll make a quick rest stop at Gullfoss before transitioning from paved roads to highland mountain roads. Along the way, you'll be treated to views of the vast black highland desert and glacial lagoons, eventually arriving at the mountainous oasis of Kerlingarfjöll. Our first stop in this region will be The Highland Base, located in the Ásgarður Valley at the edge of Kerlingarfjöll, where we can stretch our legs.

      240 minutes here

    Where it starts and ends

    Hotel pickup

    Pickup is included for all travelers.

    Before you book

    Cancellation
    For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
    Languages
    en
    Ticket
    Mobile Only
    Runs on
    Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat
    Group size
    Up to 15 travelers per booking
    Operated by
    Arctic Adventures

    Know before you go

    • Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
    • Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
    • Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
    • Duration of the tour is 11.5-12 hours including travel time
    • Kerlingarfjöll is in the remote highlands where weather can be unpredictable. Please note that the trail may be muddy, and it's not unusual to encounter snow - even in the summer. Please dress in layers and wear sturdy boots with good tread that you do not mind getting dirty.

    Photos

    Kerlingarfjöll Geothermal Highlands Day Tour from Reykjavik, photo 2Kerlingarfjöll Geothermal Highlands Day Tour from Reykjavik, photo 3Kerlingarfjöll Geothermal Highlands Day Tour from Reykjavik, photo 4Kerlingarfjöll Geothermal Highlands Day Tour from Reykjavik, photo 5Kerlingarfjöll Geothermal Highlands Day Tour from Reykjavik, photo 6Kerlingarfjöll Geothermal Highlands Day Tour from Reykjavik, photo 7

    What travelers are saying

    Outty’s summary of the themes that recur across 25 traveler reviews. Written by us, not quoted from reviewers.

    The guide

    8 mentions

    Travelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works.

    Knowledge and storytelling

    6 mentions

    Reviewers describe the commentary as informative rather than scripted.

    Photo opportunities

    4 mentions

    The views and photo stops come up again and again.

    Physical effort

    4 mentions

    Expect real walking or climbing: reviewers mention the effort involved.

    Value for money

    3 mentions

    Travelers feel they got more than they paid for.

    Food and drink

    2 mentions

    The tastings and food stops are a highlight for most reviewers.

    Traveler reviews

    25 verified traveler reviews for Kerlingarfjöll Geothermal Highlands Day Tour from Reykjavik. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.

    5 star
    21
    4 star
    1
    3 star
    2
    2 star
    0
    1 star
    1
    Sort
    Madison_K · September 2026

    10/10 recommend

    Amazing!! Best hike of my life. Warning I did go late September and it was super muddy so my pants and shoes were covered but it was so worth it. Also it was definitely a difficult hike and not for beginners. Our tour guide was Magnus Dan and he was wonderful! He was educational, funny and helped us all on the hike. I felt like I was on another planet the location is the most incredible place.

    via Viator

    484ronaldf · September 2026

    I loved this beyond words

    This is one of the best trips I have had through Trip Advisor My guide Dan was more than beyond extraordinary. As a senior citizen I never felt any pressure to keep up and Dan was so gracious with his time and help. I highly recommend with Dan and the folks at Arctic Adventure.

    Response from the operator: Hi Ronald, one of the best trips you've had is a title earned against a lot of competition. A guide who's gracious with his time for someone who needs a different pace is doing the job with real care. Glad Kerlingarfjöll left you lost for words. Arctic Adventures Team

    via Tripadvisor

    Nomad23703276515 · August 2026

    Perfect tour

    Everything was perfect, and so was the weather.

    Response from the operator: Hi there, Kerlingarfjöll with perfect weather is the version most people hope for and not everyone gets. Lucky timing. Glad it delivered. Arctic Adventures Team

    via Tripadvisor

    I2827XDdanilom · August 2026

    Day hike in Kerlingarfjöll

    Simply unreal experience! Kerlingarfjöll feels like a different planet. The guide Lili was amazing and surprised us with some extra spots. Fully recommend!

    Response from the operator: Hi Danilo, bonus stops in the highlands are a guide sharing her own favorites. That's personal, not scripted. Glad the day was something special. Arctic Adventures Team

    via Tripadvisor

    676romanav · August 2026

    Perfect day

    It was an amazing day. The landscape looks almost like you're on another planet. Our driver/guide was exelent. I wish we could have time for baths. I recomend this trip.

    Response from the operator: Hi Romana, thanks for this. The highland landscape earns that other-planet description every time. Come back for more adventures! Arctic Adventures Team

    via Tripadvisor

    Good to know

    Duration
    11.5 hours
    Free cancellation
    Up to 24h before
    Minimum age to book
    All ages
    Availability
    Bookable today
    Runs on
    Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat
    Price range
    €161 to €181
    Hotel pickup
    Included for all travelers
    Booked in 30 days
    9
    Verdict
    Solid Choice

    Who runs this experience

    Operated by Arctic Adventures, who run 13 experiences we rank across 1 city, with an average Outty Ranking of 70.6.

    See everything Arctic Adventures runs

    Why this scores 67

    The Outty Ranking is a weighted composite. Here is how this experience performed on each component.

    Traveler sentiment (30% weight)77
    Review evidence (18% weight)42
    Booking momentum (14% weight)34
    Value for money (12% weight)100
    Listing quality (10% weight)85
    Local standing (8% weight)39
    Booking flexibility (8% weight)100

    Kerlingarfjöll Geothermal Highlands Day Tour from Reykjavik: questions travelers ask

    Practical detail on this experience, plus the wider planning questions for Reykjavik.

    How much does Kerlingarfjöll Geothermal Highlands Day Tour from Reykjavik cost?

    +

    Prices start at €161 per person. The final price depends on the date, the time slot and the number of travelers, and peak weekends in Reykjavik usually price higher than midweek mornings. Live pricing and remaining availability are confirmed on the booking screen before you pay.

    How long does Kerlingarfjöll Geothermal Highlands Day Tour from Reykjavik take?

    +

    Plan for about 11.5 hours from start to finish, not counting travel to the meeting point. Most travelers leave another 30 minutes on either side so the rest of the day in Reykjavik is not rushed.

    Is Kerlingarfjöll Geothermal Highlands Day Tour from Reykjavik worth it?

    +

    It holds an Outty Ranking of 67 out of 100, which we label "Solid Choice". That score blends traveler sentiment (4.6/5 across 25 reviews), the depth of that review evidence, recent booking momentum, value for money against comparable last minute in Reykjavik, and how flexible the cancellation terms are.

    Can I cancel or reschedule Kerlingarfjöll Geothermal Highlands Day Tour from Reykjavik?

    +

    Yes. Cancel free up to 24 hours before the start time for a full refund. Inside that window the booking is non-refundable, and no-shows are not refunded.

    Is Kerlingarfjöll Geothermal Highlands Day Tour from Reykjavik suitable for kids and families?

    +

    Yes, all ages are welcome. Families should still weigh the 11.5-hour running time, and strollers are easier on the earlier, quieter departures.

    How far in advance should I book Kerlingarfjöll Geothermal Highlands Day Tour from Reykjavik?

    +

    Around 9 people booked this in the last 30 days, so popular slots go early. Two to three weeks ahead is comfortable in shoulder season, while summer weekends and holidays in Reykjavik can sell out a month out. Same-day spots do open up when other travelers cancel, so it is worth checking if you are already in town.

    What should I bring or wear?

    +

    Bring photo ID, your booking confirmation on your phone, a refillable water bottle and comfortable shoes. Dress for the weather in Reykjavik and add a light layer if any part of the 11.5-hour experience runs outdoors or after sunset.

    Where does Kerlingarfjöll Geothermal Highlands Day Tour from Reykjavik start and how do I get there?

    +

    The exact meeting point and directions are on your voucher once you book, and they sit in central Reykjavik within reach of public transport. Arrive 15 minutes early: late arrivals are treated as no-shows by most operators.

    What are the best things to do in Reykjavik?

    +

    On Outty we rank every Reykjavik experience on the same 0 to 100 scale, and alongside this one the highest scorers right now include Reykjavik Food Walk - Local Foodie Adventure in Iceland, Silfra Snorkeling Between Continents Photos Included- Self Drive, Small-Group Golden Circle, Blue Lagoon with Ticket & Kerid Crater. The city page groups everything into most popular, highest reviewed, last minute and family-friendly so you can build a day around what actually delivers.

    When is the best time to visit Reykjavik?

    +

    Booking patterns follow the same curve: prices and queues climb in peak weeks, while shoulder season gives you better availability on the top-ranked experiences and more room to change plans.

    How many days do you need in Reykjavik?

    +

    Three full days covers the headline sights without sprinting. A workable rhythm is one anchor experience each morning, such as this one, an unhurried afternoon in a single neighborhood, then a food or nightlife booking in the evening. Five days lets you add a day trip outside the city.

    Do I book through Outty or through the operator?

    +

    Outty ranks and explains the experiences, then hands you to Viator to complete the booking with the operator directly. The price is the same as booking on Viator yourself, and Outty earns an affiliate commission on the referral, which is how the rankings stay free to read.

    What is included in Kerlingarfjöll Geothermal Highlands Day Tour from Reykjavik?

    +

    Included: Professional English-speaking guide; Small-group experience (max 19 travellers); Transport in a specially equipped vehicle (Highlands access); Reykjavík pickup and drop-off; and Guided hike in Kerlingarfjöll Highlands. Not included: Lunch; Snacks; Tea and coffee; and Hiking gear not included (boots, waterproofs, hiking poles). Always check the voucher for the final list before you travel.

    Does Kerlingarfjöll Geothermal Highlands Day Tour from Reykjavik include hotel pickup?

    +

    Yes, pickup is offered for every traveler from 23 listed pickup locations in and around Reykjavik.

    What languages is Kerlingarfjöll Geothermal Highlands Day Tour from Reykjavik offered in?

    +

    It runs in English. Pick your language when choosing a date and time, as not every departure runs in every language.

    Will I get instant confirmation and a mobile ticket for Kerlingarfjöll Geothermal Highlands Day Tour from Reykjavik?

    +

    Confirmation is sent by the operator after booking, usually within 48 hours; if it is not confirmed you are not charged. Mobile tickets are accepted, so you can show the voucher on your phone.

    What happens to Kerlingarfjöll Geothermal Highlands Day Tour from Reykjavik if the weather is bad?

    +

    This experience depends on good weather. If it is canceled because of poor weather, you are offered a different date or a full refund.

    What do travelers say about Kerlingarfjöll Geothermal Highlands Day Tour from Reykjavik?

    +

    Across 25 reviews averaging 4.6 out of 5, recurring themes include the guide, knowledge and storytelling, photo opportunities. Travelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works. One thing to know: Expect real walking or climbing: reviewers mention the effort involved.

    Ready to lock in your spot?

    Pick a date, choose your group, and see the exact price for Kerlingarfjöll Geothermal Highlands Day Tour from Reykjavik.

    Pick your date