Fimmvörðuháls Hike | Day Tour

By Midgard AdventureBest of

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Fimmvörðuháls (Fimmvorðuhals) is one of Iceland’s most breathtaking hiking trails. Join us for an unforgettable adventure featuring awe-inspiring landscapes, invigorating challenges, and the camaraderie of fellow hikers, leaving you with lasting memories of Iceland’s stunning beauty.

Duration
14 hours
Difficulty
Challenging
Season
June to August
Minimum age
13 years
Getting there
Jeep / 4x4
Book by
48 hours before

from

60,000 ISK

per adult

Check dates & book

Next departures

  • Fri 25 Jun · 08:00
  • Mon 28 Jun · 08:00
  • Wed 30 Jun · 08:00
  • Fri 2 Jul · 08:00

Runs: June to August

  • Secure payment, confirmation from the operator
  • No account needed

The Grapevine's take

Fimmvörðuháls

This intense day-long hike takes you past countless waterfalls into the Highlands, across desert, fresh lava, snow where two glaciers meet, and down into the Þórsmörk valley. The sights are magnificent at every step and packed with moments of genuine exhilaration. It’s not for the novice, as it has difficult patches that could prove to be a struggle to those with physical limitations or severe fears of heights. It’s challenging and only open in peak summer, but it’s simply unforgettable.

On The Reykjavík Grapevine's Best of list. See the whole list.

Prices

Adult60,000 ISK

Prices for the next departure, checked Wed 21 Oct. They can change with the date; the booking shows the exact price.

About this tour

Fimmvörðuháls (Fimmvorðuhals) is one of Iceland’s most breathtaking hiking trails. Join us for an unforgettable adventure featuring awe-inspiring landscapes, invigorating challenges, and the camaraderie of fellow hikers, leaving you with lasting memories of Iceland’s stunning beauty.

Why hike Fimmvörðuháls with Midgard?

  • We are specialists in the southern Icelandic highlands.
  • Operating since 2010, we bring over a decade of experience to every tour.
  • You’ll be guided by experienced Midgard guides who have hiked Fimmvörðuháls for years.
  • No need to stress about weather forecasts or safety concerns. We prioritize safety and are deeply familiar with the area.
  • Transportation is taken care of: we’ll transfer you from Midgard Base Camp to Skógar (the hike’s starting point) and pick you up in Þórsmörk (where it ends) before driving you back to Midgard Base Camp.
  • After the hike, celebrate with a mouthwatering hamburger barbecue and your choice of beer or soda.

Tour description

The day begins at Midgard Base Camp, where you’ll meet your guide for a brief introduction and safety overview. From there, we drive to Skógar waterfall (approximately 30 minutes).

The hike begins by following the Skógá river, a trail famous for its 20+ stunning waterfalls. Continuing onward, we journey between the Eyjafjallajökull glacier (site of the 2010 eruption) and Mýrdalsjökull glacier, beneath which lies the infamous Katla volcano.

You’ll cross the 2010 volcanic area, walking over still-warm lava fields and passing the newly formed craters, Magni and Móði. Descending into Þórsmörk offers an unparalleled view of the valley’s dramatic landscapes—a spectacular finish to an extraordinary hike.

After the hike, we’ll celebrate together with a delicious barbecue and refreshing drinks. A super jeep or bus will then transport you back to Midgard Base Camp, crossing unbridged rivers along the way.

In short

  • Distance: 24 km
  • Elevation: 1,400 m
  • Highest Point: 1,050 m
  • Hiking Time: 9–12 hours
  • Total Duration: 11–14 hours

Please note: This is a challenging and lengthy hike (24 km in total). Participants must be physically fit, capable of hiking for 9–12 hours, and prepared for uneven terrain with significant uphill and downhill sections.

Accommodation recommendations

We recommend staying at Midgard Base Camp the night before and after the hike. Our cozy and sociable accommodations provide the perfect base for your South Iceland adventure.

✓ Rooftop hot tub and sauna—ideal for post-hike relaxation
✓ Friendly, welcoming atmosphere
✓ Regular events, including concerts, karaoke nights, and pub quizzes
✓ A convenient and affordable option for travelers exploring South Iceland

Additional information about Fimmvörðuháls Hike Day Tour

Physical Difficulty: 5 of 5.
This hike is rated 5 out of 5 for physical difficulty – perfect for  those seeking a rewarding challenge. Covering 24 km with an elevation  gain of 1,400 m, this demanding trek takes 9-12 hours to complete.  You’ll navigate uneven wilderness trails, rocky paths, and, at times,  snowy terrain. Our experienced guides are always there to assist,  ensuring your journey is both safe and unforgettable.

Departure/Return location: Midgard Base Camp, Dufþaksbraut 14, Hvolsvöllur.

Departure time: The departure time depends on the season, please see booking widget. We ask our guests to show up no later than 15 minutes before departure.

Season: June- September

Duration: 10-14 hours

Minimum age: 13 years

Lunchboxes: When booking you can add a lunchbox from Midgard Restaurant. Click here to read more about our lunchboxes.

Wear: Comfortable clothing, hiking shoes and warm clothes according to this area's weather forecast.



What's included

Hotel pick-up and drop-off in Hvolsvöllur area – Other pickup locations on request.

Professional guidance

Evening light BBQ

What to bring

Comfortable hiking clothing, hiking shoes and warm clothes according to this area’s weather forecast! 

Good to know

There is a minimum of 4 participants for this tour. In case of fewer bookings we will refund you 100% or suggest alternatives.

Food during the hike is not included. However you can order lunchboxes in the booking process.

We depart around 08:00 early morning from the Midgard Base Camp. Swing by a little earlier for a nice cup of coffee!

We can also pick you up at your accommodation in the area from 7:45-8:15 (depending on your location).

This hike is also available as a private tour.

Where it starts

Midgard Base CampDufþak, Hvolsvöllur

Map of Midgard Base CampOpen in Google Maps

Cancellation

For all bookings of day tours, a minimum of 24 hours' notice prior to your scheduled departure is required in order to receive a full refund. If a cancellation is made with less than 24 hours notice, no refund is given.

For all bookings of multi-day and custom private tours, a minimum of 72 hours' notice prior to your scheduled departure is required in order to receive a full refund. If a cancellation is made with less than 72 hours' notice, no refund is given*

*Note that in the event the client requests a refund for any reason, Tour Desk reserves the right to charge a 3% administration fee to cover costs incurred.

Cancellation and refund requests need to be sent in writing to info@tourdesk.io

Questions

How long is Fimmvörðuháls Hike?
About 14 hours.
How much does Fimmvörðuháls Hike cost?
From 60,000 ISK. Adult: 60,000 ISK. Prices are per person unless the category says otherwise, and can change with the date.
Where does it start?
There is no pickup: you meet the operator at Midgard Base Camp, Dufþak, Hvolsvöllur. Most people drive there themselves.
What is the minimum age?
13 years.
When does it run?
June to August, going by the departures listed for the next twelve months.
How hard is it?
The operator rates it challenging.

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