Must-Do Hikes When Visiting Iceland

Iceland is welcoming more and more British tourists with every passing year. 2025 was a great year for tourism in the country, and 2026 is expected to be better still. Iceland holidays are a great way to reconnect with nature – and with whomever you’re sharing the adventure with.

It’s easy to see why. The landscape is utterly alien and inspiring, and unlike any other place you’ll find on Earth. Many of the glaciers, waterfalls, and geothermal features are available only to those who are willing to travel to them on foot. If you’re planning a trip, in other words, it’s worth knowing which hiking trails are worth considering.

The Laugavegur Trail — Iceland’s Most Iconic Multi‑Day Hike

Any roundup of Iceland’s best hikes would be incomplete without mention of the incredible Laugavegur Trail. It’s ranked consistently among the best on the planet, winding as it does through deserts of black sand, clusters of hot springs, and glacier-carved valleys. If you are willing to commit to multiple days, and you have experience in the wilderness, this is surely among the best ways to see what the country has to offer.

Fimmvörðuháls — The Waterfall and Volcano Route

Waterfalls are part of what makes the country so iconic. And this incredible trail, which links Skógafoss with Þórsmörk, will take you past more than twenty of them. At the right time of year, they’re truly awe-inspiring. Along the way, you’ll also see famous volcanic sites, like that of Eyjafjallajökull. For those with just a single day to commit, and a desire to see the natural wonders of Iceland at their most dramatic, this is the route to take.

Glymur Waterfall Hike — A Shorter Trail with Big Views

If you have only a limited time to spare, or you don’t want to commit to a long, gruelling trip, then you might prioritise the tallest known waterfall in the country, Glymur. You’ll be able to see it along the way – but you’ll also journey through various caves and canyons, and see amazing views along the way.

Landmannalaugar Day Hikes — Geothermal Colours and Lava Fields

In Landmannalaugar, a number of day-long hikes are available. The route you choose might depend on whether you want to see multi-hued mountains, fields of lava, or natural hot springs. Some of the natural sights to see are utterly surreal – and they make for inspiring photos and unforgettable memories.