5-Day Vatnajökull Wilderness Trek – Hiking & Wild Camping Expedition

5-Day Vatnajökull Wilderness Trek - IS-RE
5-Day Vatnajökull Wilderness Trek - IS-RE
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5-Day Vatnajökull Wilderness Trek

Hiking & Wild Camping Expedition

Step off the beaten path and embark on a true Icelandic wilderness adventure with our 5-Day Vatnajökull Trek. This expedition takes you through some of the most remote and breathtaking landscapes in Iceland, from lush forests and dramatic waterfalls to vast glaciers and colorful rhyolite mountains.

Your journey begins in the Núpsstaðaskógur forest, climbing along the Núpsá river with its sheer cliffs and roaring waterfalls. Cross the green Sléttur plains and crest the Eggjar Hills for panoramic views of Iceland’s glacier-carved highlands.

The highlight of the trek is the crossing of Skeiðarárjökull glacier, a formidable yet awe-inspiring experience that leads you into the ethereal Norðurdalur valley. Continue through the rhyolite peaks of Skaftafellsfjöll, descend into Morsárdalur glacier valley, and complete your expedition in Skaftafell, the crown jewel of Vatnajökull National Park.

This trek is a true backcountry experience: wild camping under the Arctic sky, carrying your own gear, food, and equipment, with guidance from experienced Icelandic mountain leaders. It’s demanding, remote, and unforgettable—perfect for those seeking an authentic Icelandic adventure.

Walking per day: 3–9 hours
Total Hiking Distance: ~55 km
Accommodation: Wild camping
Difficulty: Demanding

Booking & Cancellation Policy

  • Booking cutoff: 2 days before departure

  • Cancellation fees:

    • 100% if cancelled 15 days or less before event

    • 75% if cancelled 29 days or less before event

    • 50% if cancelled 59 days or less before event

    • 15% if cancelled up to 365 days before event

What's Included

  • Experienced and qualified guide for 5 days
  • National park entrance fees
  • Private transport from Reykjavik to starting point and back
  • Camping and cooking equipment (tents, stoves, communal gear)
  • Glacier gear (crampons, harness, safety equipment)
  • All hiking meals during the trek

Exclusions

  • Sleeping bag and mattress (participants must bring their own)
  • Airport transfers
  • Personal snacks or additional beverages

What to Bring

  • Sleeping bag and mattress
  • Good hiking shoes
  • Warm and comfortable layered clothing suitable for Icelandic weather
  • Gloves, hat, and rain/wind protection
  • Trekking poles

Please Note

  • Multi-day trek requiring participants to carry personal gear and share group equipment
  • Level 4 trek: demanding slopes, screes, glacier crossings, and river crossings
  • Wild camping only; no facilities available
  • Meals consist of simple, lightweight, easy-to-prepare food
  • The trek may be modified due to changing glacier or river conditions
  • Tents are 2-person, 3-season, lightweight

Why Your Friend in Reykjavik Recommends This Tour

A 5-day multi-day trek through Iceland’s wildest landscapes, including glaciers, rhyolite mountains, and the remote Norðurdalur valley. Camp under the Arctic sky on this demanding wilderness adventure.

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