Discover South Iceland
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Activities : Hiking South Iceland

 http://kort.ganga.is/ Iceland hiking map

Thousands of people come to Iceland annually to hike in the extremely versatile nature and alternating landscape that is found here. This is the "classic way" of getting to know Iceland's countryside. It can be done either by cross-country hiking with map and compass, or on one of the marked routes. On some hiking routes you will have to wade across rivers. Even on the more popular hiking trails there are few bridges, except across the largest rivers. It’s a good idea to have a spare pair of shoes for wading, walking sticks and even a safety line can be helpful.

Bear in mind that the water level in the rivers is variable: after heavy rain or warm weather even the smallest stream can turn into a large river. If you are thinking about walking off the beaten track, it would be wise to study a map first and ask locals about potentially troublesome rivers.

One of the easiest hikes to the peak of Mt. Hekla starts from the parking space at Rauðaskál. Drive from Landmannaleið, west of Nýjahraun until you reach the parking space, then walk along the ridge until you reach your destination. The hike should take a whole day and you should carry your day’s supply of water with you.

Natural Jacuzzis

Reykjadalur is a valley above the town Hveragerði and a 90 minute long marked hiking trail leads up the green valley to the warm river Reykjadalsá in Klambragil. The trail begins at the mouth of Reykjadalur valley, where there is a great view of the Djúpagil gorge and its inspiring waterfall. The trail then leads up Reykjadalur and across a lukewarm but shallow river, where wading is required. A bit further up you will reach Klambragil, a ravine where hot streams flow into the Reykjadalsá river, creating an ideal temperature for a relaxed bath, including some natural "Jacuzzis". Note that the hot streams themselves are too hot for bathing. There are numerous onward hiking possibilities from Klambragil and there is an amazing gorge nearby with several hot springs and a beautiful little waterfall at the very end.

Other hiking possibilities
Some of the other finest hiking in the area includes topping the mountain Thrihyrningur, around Landmannalaugar, in the Fjallabak reserve, in Thorsmörk, around Hengill, up the Skógar waterfalls, near Stokkalækur and in Kerlingardalur. Two famous hiking routes for longer hikes are between Thorsmörk and Skógar + the five day hike between Landmannalaugar and Skógar. Further details are available from touring clubs and travel agencies or by contacting Hotel Ranga.

It is safe to drink the water from most rivers and lakes away from farms and towns. Mosquitoes aren’t a problem except in a few places close to lakes during calm and warm weather – when they can be a real nuisance and you need a "head net" or other protective gear. Wandering sheep and horses are the most "dangerous" beasts you’ll meet on the roads in Iceland. The vegetation in Iceland is sensitive, so please try to avoid trampling on it by using hiking paths where you can find them.

Highland Hiking paths Fog and mist are common in Iceland so you should know how to use a map and a compass. Only the most popular hiking trails are marked with posts, and in the winter and spring these are often covered by snow. In the summer it is necessary to book reservations in the huts if you wish to sleep in them. This can be done through the owner of the hut. Most of the huts are open during the summer. There is a charge for staying in the huts – but it’s not much – so please be conscientious about paying even if there is nobody there. The money goes towards the upkeep of the huts, which can be quite expensive after a long, hard winter. Food is not sold in the huts so don’t forget your dinner. In some huts there are gas stoves and cooking utensils, while in others there is nothing. Remember to clean the hut before you leave and make sure all the windows and doors are properly closed.

For longer tours you do need to be fit and well equipped. A wide variety of organized and special-interest tours awaits walking and hiking enthusiasts. GPS instruments are widely used here. You should check the weather forecast before heading on a hike or a longer trekking tour. Some travelers even opt to spend their entire stay in Iceland in this way, on such tours as 17-day organized treks through remote areas.

 

 

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