5-Day Vatnajökull Wilderness Trek

Your adventure begins bright and early at Reykjavík’s BSI central bus station, where you’ll meet your fellow explorers and board a public bus bound for the charming village of Kirkjubæjarklaustur. After a scenic journey through Iceland’s southern landscapes, you’ll be transferred across winding rivers to the secluded Núpsstaðarskógar valley. Here, surrounded by untouched wilderness, you’ll set up your first camp and enjoy a welcome dinner under the midnight sun, preparing for the days of hiking ahead.

Awaken to the sounds of nature and embark on a hike from the valley floor, quickly reaching the breathtaking Tvítíhylur waterfalls. The route follows the sculpted canyons of the Núpsá river, where towering walls rise dramatically on either side. After a steady climb, you’ll reach the deeper sections of the canyon, marveling at the sheer scale of the landscape. The day’s trek concludes on the expansive Sléttur lava plains, where you’ll camp amidst the stark beauty of Iceland’s volcanic terrain.

Today’s journey takes you across plains adorned with Arctic River Beauty flowers, ascending toward the Eggjar hills. As you climb, the landscape opens up to reveal the stunning Grænalón glacier lagoon, where icebergs drift serenely between rugged mountains. Your campsite for the night is set north of the lagoon, offering panoramic views of the immense Skeiðarárjökull glacier tongue, a truly unforgettable backdrop for your evening meal and rest.

Prepare for a day of true adventure as you traverse the icy expanse of Skeiðarárjökull, journeying from Grænafjall Mountain to the remote Norðurdalur valley. This challenging crossing, surrounded by towering peaks and endless ice, rewards you with the satisfaction of reaching solid ground in the heart of the Skaftafell area, part of the renowned Vatnajökull National Park. Your campsite offers sweeping views of glacial lakes dotted with icebergs and the colorful rhyolite mountains beyond, making for a magical evening in the wild.

On your final day, a climb to a narrow mountain ridge reveals sweeping views of the golden rhyolite valley of Kjós and Iceland’s highest peak, Hvannadalshnúkur. Descending into the lush Morsárdalur valley, you’ll be greeted by the vibrant Arctic birch forest of Bæjarstaðarskógur. The trek concludes at the main campsite in Skaftafell, where you’ll board a bus back to Reykjavík, reflecting on an unforgettable journey through Iceland’s most dramatic and pristine landscapes.