Planning a trip to Iceland and yearning for something beyond the usual Golden Circle? This Kerlingafjöll: Exclusive 4×4 Highland Expedition might just be the adventure you’re craving. It’s designed for travelers who want to get off the beaten path, see raw volcanic landscapes, and enjoy a small-group experience with a dedicated guide. I’ve been researching this tour, and I think it offers a pretty special peek into Iceland’s highlands — though it’s not for everyone.
What really catches my eye about this trip is the way it combines iconic sights like Gullfoss and Geysir with a secret, less-visited highland gem — the rhyolite mountains of Kerlingafjöll. Plus, traveling in a private 4×4 makes the journey feel exclusive and personalized. On the flip side, this tour is a full-day commitment (around 12 hours), and the terrain can be challenging, so a certain level of mobility and weather readiness is a must. I’d recommend it to those who love adventure, scenery, and don’t mind a bit of rugged travel.
Key Points
- Private, small-group experience offers a more intimate and flexible adventure.
- Access to remote highlands not reachable with regular tours.
- Guided trek through geothermal landscapes provides an up-close look at volcanic activity.
- Inclusion of iconic sights like Gullfoss and Geysir makes the day well-rounded.
- Requires moderate physical activity and sturdy waterproof clothing.
- Optional hot spring stop adds a relaxing element, but it’s not included in the price.
Exploring the Kerlingafjöll Highland Expedition
This tour is a showcase of Iceland’s volcanic soul—an all-day journey into the island’s less-visited highlands, away from the crowds. The experience begins with a hotel pickup in Reykjavík around 8:30 AM, setting the tone for a day filled with natural wonders. The transport is a private 4×4 vehicle, built to handle Iceland’s demanding terrain, which means you’re not just sitting back but actively experiencing the rugged landscape.
The Journey to the Highlands
The initial part of the trip takes you from Reykjavík to Gullfoss, the renowned “Golden Falls.” We loved the way this iconic waterfall makes a powerful first impression — a two-tiered cascade plunging into a deep canyon with a thunderous roar. It’s a classic stop, but just a teaser for what’s to come. The 30-minute visit here offers perfect photo opportunities and a chance to appreciate Iceland’s mighty glacial rivers.
After Gullfoss, the route veers off the main roads onto highland tracks. This is where the adventure really starts. Traveling in a 4×4, you’ll feel the thrill of navigating through volcanic desert landscapes and rocky wilderness. The drive itself is part of the experience, offering a sense of remote freedom that larger buses simply can’t match. The guide’s knowledge about the terrain and volcanic formations adds a layer of richness, explaining how the landscape was shaped by volcanic activity.
Kerlingafjöll and the Geothermal Wonderland
Once you reach Kerlingafjöll, you’ll immediately sense the otherworldly quality of the area. The rhyolite mountains here are a kaleidoscope of reds, yellows, and oranges, thanks to centuries of geothermal activity. The guided trek through Hveradalir, a geothermal valley, is a major highlight. As you follow the trail, you’ll pass steaming fumaroles, bubbling pools of mud, and hissing steam vents — all up-close.
One reviewer described the landscape as “painted by an artist,” which feels fitting. The vibrant colors and surreal forms of the geothermal vents make it a truly unique experience. It’s an active, raw environment that shows how powerful Iceland’s volcanic forces are—something you might find fascinating if you’re into geology or just love dramatic scenery.
The guide’s commentary on the volcanic activity and landscape formation makes this more than just a walk. It’s a window into how Iceland’s earth is constantly reshaping itself.
Hot Springs and Relaxation (Optional)
Here’s where the tour offers a flexible option — a soak in a natural hot spring located in the wilderness. It’s not included in the tour price, but many guests find it a perfect way to unwind after the trek. Be sure to bring your swimsuit and towel if you want to indulge. The hot spring experience isn’t just about relaxation; it’s about connecting with Iceland’s geothermal energy in a truly primal setting.
More Great Tours NearbyThe Geysir Geyser and Return Journey
On the way back, the tour stops at the Geysir geothermal field. Watching Strokkur erupt every few minutes is a classic Icelandic spectacle. It’s impressive, even if you’ve seen bubbling hot springs before, because of how reliably it erupts and the power it displays. The field adds a lively end to the day, showing the active volcanic forces that keep Iceland’s landscape constantly changing.
The return trip in the late afternoon takes approximately 1.5 to 2 hours, giving you time to reflect on the day’s adventures. The guide will likely share more stories and insights during the drive, making the journey back just as engaging as the morning’s start.
What’s Included and What’s Not
The tour’s price of $579 per person covers quite a lot: private hotel pickup, a dedicated driver-guide, transportation in a 4×4 vehicle, visits to Gullfoss and Geysir, and the guided trek through Hveradalir. That’s a reasonable value considering you’re getting a private or small group experience with personalized attention. It’s especially appealing if you prefer to avoid the larger bus crowds.
However, some things aren’t included — notably lunch, snacks, and beverages. You’ll want to bring your own or plan to buy food along the way. The optional hot spring visit also costs extra, and you’ll need to bring your swimsuit and towel. It’s worth keeping in mind that you’ll need sturdy hiking boots and appropriate waterproof and warm clothing because of the rugged terrain and changeable weather.
Who Should Consider This Tour?
This expedition works best for travelers who are comfortable with moderate physical activity, as the guided trek can last up to two hours over uneven terrain. It’s not suitable for very young children, pregnant women, or anyone with mobility issues. Those interested in geology, geothermal landscapes, or just eager to see a less-visited part of Iceland will find this tour particularly rewarding.
If you’re looking for a luxury, hassle-free experience with a focus on comfort, you might prefer more conventional tours. But if you’re craving a true adventure into Iceland’s wild interior, this private highland trip offers a rewarding blend of scenery, activity, and exclusivity.
Final Thoughts
This Kerlingafjöll Highland Expedition is a solid choice for travelers wanting to step beyond the typical Golden Circle sights and experience Iceland’s volcanic core. It combines iconic waterfalls and geysers with the wild, colorful geothermal landscapes of Kerlingafjöll — a landscape that feels almost surreal. The private or small-group setup ensures you get personalized commentary and a flexible pace, which can make a big difference in a full day of exploration.
The journey’s focus on active participation — in navigating rough terrain, walking through geothermal valleys, and possibly soaking in hot springs — makes it a memorable, hands-on adventure. While it’s a full day and involves some physical effort, the scenery and sense of discovery make it worthwhile.
If you’re after a mix of iconic sights and off-the-beaten-path moments, and don’t mind the rugged travel conditions, this tour really offers a chance to see the volcanoes, geothermal activity, and volcanic landscapes that make Iceland so mesmerizing.
Kerlingafjöll: Exclusive 4×4 Highland Expedition
FAQ
Is this tour suitable for children?
This tour requires a moderate level of physical activity and involves uneven terrain, so it’s not ideal for very young children. It’s better suited for older kids and adults comfortable with outdoor trekking.
How long does the tour last?
It lasts about 10-12 hours, starting with hotel pickup around 8:30 AM and returning in the late afternoon or early evening.
What should I bring?
Comfortable, waterproof hiking boots, warm and waterproof clothing, a camera, and weather-appropriate gear are essential. If planning to visit the hot spring, bring a swimsuit and towel.
Are meals included?
No, lunch, snacks, and beverages are not included, so plan to bring your own or purchase along the way.
Can I join this tour in bad weather?
The itinerary can change based on weather and road conditions to ensure safety, but the guide will prioritize your safety above all.
Is this tour private or shared?
It’s available as a private or small-group experience, which makes for a more personalized journey.
What makes this tour unique?
Access to Iceland’s remote highlands in an exclusive 4×4, combined with a guided trek through geothermal landscapes, makes it stand out from typical day trips.
Is the hot spring experience included?
No, visiting the hot spring in Kerlingafjöll is optional and costs extra. You’ll need to bring your swimsuit and towel if you choose to take a dip.
This tour offers a fantastic way to see a dramatic, less-visited part of Iceland with the comfort of a private guide and vehicle. Perfect if you’re up for adventure and want to step into a landscape that feels almost otherworldly.
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