A four-day, 50 km expedition from Nupstaðarskógar to Skaftafell that crosses volcanic ash fields, braided rivers, and one of Iceland’s largest glaciers. Small groups, certified guides, and full camping support make this a demanding but accessible interior crossing.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
The first morning light in southern Iceland feels like a soft ignition: the low clouds lift, revealing a long ridge of black ash and green moss, and a guide clips a harness into a rope team. You step off from Nupstaðarskógar with a pack that feels light for what it must carry — four nights of food, a sleeping bag, and layers meant to fight sudden wind and drizzle. The trail does not pander. It pushes across old lava, skims braided rivers that dare you to find the right stones, and climbs toward a glacier that, on good days, will glint like a slab of compressed sky.
Difficulty
challenging
Duration
4 days (up to 8 hours per day)
Fitness Level
You should have a high level of cardiovascular fitness and experience with multi-day hikes; comfortable carrying a 10–14 kg pack.
Wildlife
History
The route sits where volcanic eruptions and glacier movements have intersected for centuries; local farms adapted with turf walls and seasonal grazing paths shaped by those cycles.
Conservation
This is fragile terrain—stick to worn routes, pack out all waste, and follow guide instructions to minimize erosion and protect meltwater streams.
Reserve your spot on the Wild Iceland Nupstaðarskógar expedition today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Train for long days
This route includes up to 8 hours of hiking per day over uneven terrain—build endurance with back-to-back long walks and weighted packs.
Layer for sudden weather
Bring a breathable waterproof shell and insulating mid-layer; wind and rain can arrive without warning, even in summer.
Respect glacier protocol
Follow guide instructions on roped travel and crampon use—do not attempt unsupported glacier crossings.
Pack light, share load
Use group gear for tents and stoves; minimize personal items to essential clothing and a warm sleeping bag to reduce strain.
Sturdy waterproof hiking boots
Provides ankle support and grip on scree, moss, and wet river crossings.
summer
Insulating mid-layer (down or synthetic)
Keeps you warm at high elevations and during windy evenings at camp.
summer
Breathable waterproof shell
Essential protection against wind-driven rain and spray from meltwater.
summer
4-season sleeping bag (comfort to -5°C)
Ensures restful nights on exposed campsites and colder glacier-edge temperatures.
summer