Kerlingarfjöll Hot Springs
Discover steaming geothermal areas and hidden hot springs in the central highlands.
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About this tour
Kerlingarfjöll is a rhyolite mountain range in Iceland's central highlands, famous for its red and green colored slopes streaked with steam vents. The Hverir-style Hveradalir geothermal valley is the highlight — a hot-spring-warmed river you can wade into, surrounded by acid-yellow earth and steam plumes.
This is a 12-hour day from Reykjavík in a highland-rated 4×4 bus. Summer-only access (mid-June to mid-September). The hike from the parking area into the geothermal valley is 1 hour each way over moderate terrain — bring sturdy footwear.
Bring layers, swimwear (for the geothermal river), waterproof shell, and a packed lunch (we provide one). The colors and steam are best in afternoon light. Group capped at 14.
What's planned
Reykjavík departure
08:00Highland-rated 4×4 bus pickup at BSÍ Bus Terminal.
Drive into the highlands
180 minSouth lowlands, then up the F35 Kjölur route across the central highlands.
Kerlingarfjöll mountain hut (lunch)
45 minMountain lodge at the base of the range. Lunch included.
Hveradalir geothermal valley hike
180 min total1 hour walk in, 1 hour at the river (swim if conditions allow), 1 hour walk out. Steam vents, colored slopes, hot stream wading.
Return to Reykjavík
180 minDirect return to BSÍ.
Highlights
- Kerlingarfjöll geothermal valley
- Hot spring pools
- Mountain hiking trails
- Central highland scenery
What's included
- Super jeep transport
- Local highland guide (English-speaking)
- Hotel pickup from Reykjavík
Not included
- Meals
- Swimwear
- Personal expenses
Pickup & meeting point
Pickup & meeting point
Pickup at BSÍ Bus Terminal in Reykjavík at 08:00. Highland-rated 4×4 vehicles only.
BSI Bus Terminal — Vatnsmýrarvegur 10, 101 Reykjavík, Iceland
Arrive 15 minutes before departure.
View on mapFrequently asked questions
What's included in the tour price?
All transportation, professional English-speaking guide, hotel pickup and drop-off in the Reykjavík capital area, and any entrance fees specific to your tour. Meals are not included unless explicitly stated.
What should I bring?
Warm waterproof outer layer, sturdy footwear, gloves, and a hat — Iceland's weather changes quickly. Charged phone and camera. We provide bottled water on board; a small snack is wise for longer routes.
What's your cancellation policy?
Free cancellation up to 24 hours before departure for a full refund. Cancellations within 24 hours are non-refundable. If we cancel due to weather or road conditions, you receive a full refund or a free reschedule — your choice.
Will the tour run if the weather is bad?
We run year-round and adapt routes to conditions. If a specific stop becomes unsafe, we substitute a comparable alternative. If the entire tour is unsafe, we contact you the night before with a refund or reschedule option.
Is hotel pickup included?
Yes. We pick up at designated stops in the Reykjavík capital area; your booking confirmation lists the exact stop nearest your hotel. The driver waits 5 minutes maximum, so please be ready 5 minutes before your scheduled pickup.
Can I bring my children?
Most tours are family-friendly for ages 6+. Northern Lights, glacier hiking, and highland tours have minimum-age restrictions detailed on each tour page. Children under 12 receive a 25% discount on most tours.
Are tours wheelchair accessible?
Our coaches are wheelchair-friendly with ramp access. Most stops are accessible, but some highland and glacier sites involve uneven terrain. Contact us before booking and we'll confirm accessibility for your specific tour and any adjustments we can make.
How small are the groups?
Day tours are capped at 19 guests. Highland and multi-day tours are capped at 14 guests. Multi-day expeditions to remote regions cap at 8. We never combine groups — your booking is your group.
Ready to book Kerlingarfjöll Hot Springs?
From €219 per person
