198 km from Reykjavík · ~4h 0m · Requires 4x4 (F-road access)· Updated
Our assessment based on current conditions. Always verify with road.is and vedur.is.
Live images from the Icelandic Road and Coastal Administration (Vegagerðin). Click to enlarge.
The most forgiving highland approach is from the west: Route 26 past Hekla, then F208 north - graded gravel with no river crossings until the final ford at the camp itself. Park at the large car park before the Námskvísl ford and wade the footbridge path in; don't drive the ford in a rental. Typically open mid-June to late September. Highland buses run daily in season if you'd rather not take your own car.
Largest volcanic canyon in the world. 40km long, up to 600m wide. Part of the Katla volcanic system. Ófærufoss waterfall inside. 4x4 recommended.
Requires 4x4
Highland nature reserve surrounding Torfajökull volcano. Rainbow rhyolite mountains, hot springs, hiking trails. 4x4 required.
Requires 4x4
Small fishing village in the South Coast. Gateway to the Mývatn area.
Highland geothermal area in Kerlingarfjöll. Colorful hot springs, steam vents, and hiking trails. 4x4 required.
Requires 4x4
Historic fishing town on the South Coast. One of Iceland's earliest trading posts.
Beautiful valley between glaciers Eyjafjallajökull, Mýrdalsjökull, and Tindfjallajökull. Lush green, river crossings. 4x4 required.
Requires 4x4