The Highlands, Iceland Travel Guide

Explore the wild heart of Iceland in the Highlands, a remote region of stunning landscapes, volcanic activity, and natural beauty.

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The Highlands

The Highlands of Iceland are a vast, uninhabited plateau in the center of the country, offering a unique and wild landscape unlike any other. This region is known for its rugged terrain, volcanic activity, and stunning natural beauty. It is a paradise for adventure seekers and nature lovers who wish to experience the raw, untouched beauty of Iceland. The Highlands are home to some of Iceland's most famous natural attractions, including the colorful rhyolite mountains of Landmannalaugar, the vast lava fields of Holuhraun, and the dramatic canyons of Ásbyrgi. Visitors can hike through these breathtaking landscapes, soak in natural hot springs, and explore the many hidden gems that this remote region has to offer. Due to its remote location, visiting the Highlands requires careful planning and preparation. The area is only accessible during the summer months when the roads are open, and a sturdy 4x4 vehicle is essential for navigating the rough terrain. However, for those willing to make the journey, the Highlands offer an unforgettable experience and a chance to connect with nature in its purest form.

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring The Highlands.

Visit during the summer months when the roads are open and accessible.
Rent a sturdy 4x4 vehicle to navigate the rough terrain.
Bring warm clothing and waterproof gear, as the weather can be unpredictable.
Plan your route and accommodations in advance, as services are limited in this remote area.
Make sure to have a detailed map or GPS device, as cell service can be unreliable.
Don't miss the natural hot springs in Landmannalaugar for a relaxing soak after a long hike.

Explore The Highlands: Things to Do, Places to Eat, Hotels & More

Handpicked recommendations for top attractions, local dining, accommodations, and more

Best attractions in The Highlands

Top-rated picks

Best Attractions

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All Attractions

Glaumbær Farm & Museum

Discover Iceland's rich heritage at Glaumbær Farm & Museum, where history and culture come alive in stunning surroundings.

4.4

Hjálparfoss

Experience the breathtaking beauty of Hjálparfoss Waterfall, a must-see natural wonder in the stunning landscapes of Iceland.

4.7

Hengifoss

Discover the breathtaking beauty of Hengifoss, Iceland's stunning waterfall, nestled in the picturesque East Fjords, ideal for nature lovers and adventurers.

4.7

Litlanesfoss

Explore the stunning Litlanesfoss Waterfall, a breathtaking natural wonder in Iceland with dramatic cascades and serene landscapes.

4.7

Best landmarks in The Highlands

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Best Landmarks

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Blue Lagoon

Discover the healing waters of Blue Lagoon, a geothermal spa in Iceland known for its stunning landscapes and luxurious wellness experiences.

4.6

Hallgrimskirkja

Discover Hallgrimskirkja in Reykjavik, a stunning architectural masterpiece and cultural landmark, offering breathtaking views and deep connections to Icelandic heritage.

4.6

Skógafoss

Discover the breathtaking beauty of Skógafoss, one of Iceland's most iconic waterfalls, where nature and adventure meet in stunning harmony.

4.8

Perlan

Discover the wonders of Icelandic nature and culture at Perlan, Reykjavík's iconic museum, planetarium, and observation deck offering stunning views.

4.5

Best restaurants in The Highlands

Top-rated picks

Best Restaurants

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Íslenski barinn

Experience authentic Icelandic cuisine at Íslenski Barinn - where tradition meets modern dining in Reykjavík's vibrant heart.

4.7

Svarta Kaffið

Discover authentic Icelandic flavors at Svarta Kaffið – cozy soup restaurant serving delicious dishes in freshly baked bread bowls.

4.6

Old Iceland

Experience authentic Icelandic flavors at Old Iceland, where tradition meets taste in a cozy Reykjavík setting.

4.8

Grillmarkaðurinn

Discover authentic Icelandic flavors at Grillmarkaðurinn, where local ingredients meet culinary artistry in a stylish setting.

4.6

Best bars in The Highlands

Top-rated picks

Best Bars

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All Bars

Íslenski barinn

Discover the essence of Icelandic cuisine and culture at Íslenski barinn, a vibrant bar and restaurant in the heart of Reykjavík.

4.7

Kol Restaurant

Discover the finest of Icelandic cuisine at Kol Restaurant in Reykjavík, where innovative dishes meet local flavors for an unforgettable dining experience.

4.6

Dillon Whiskey Bar

Experience the vibrant nightlife at Dillon Whiskey Bar in Reykjavík, where whiskey, karaoke, and live music create unforgettable memories.

4.4

Prikið ehf.

Dive into the lively atmosphere of Prikið ehf., your go-to bar and brunch spot in Reykjavík, offering local cuisine and live music.

4.5

Best nightclubs in The Highlands

Top-rated picks

Best Nightclubs

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Dillon Whiskey Bar

Experience the vibrant nightlife of Reykjavík at Dillon Whiskey Bar, where whiskey lovers gather for karaoke and live music in a cozy atmosphere.

4.4

Bravó

Experience the vibrant nightlife of Reykjavík at Bravó, a lively bar known for cocktails, live music, and a welcoming atmosphere.

4.5

Gaukurinn

Experience the vibrant nightlife at Gaukurinn, Reykjavík's premier bar for eclectic performances and unforgettable moments.

4.6

Den Danske Kro ( Danska Kráin )

Discover Den Danske Kro: A lively bar in Reykjavik that transforms into a nightclub, offering local drinks and a vibrant nightlife experience.

4.5

Best shops in The Highlands

Top-rated picks

Best Shops

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Stuðlagil Canyon Main Access

Explore the stunning Stuðlagil Canyon, a breathtaking destination with vibrant turquoise waters and striking basalt columns, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts.

4.6

Kolaportið

Explore Kolaportið in Reykjavik for a unique blend of culture, shopping, and delicious Icelandic cuisine at this vibrant flea market.

3.9

Icewear / Vík Wool

Discover high-quality Icelandic wool clothing and outdoor gear at Icewear / Vík Wool, your go-to destination in Vík for all things adventure.

4.3

The Icelandic Store

Discover the charm of Icelandic wool at The Icelandic Store in Hafnarfjörður, where quality meets tradition in every skein.

4.8

Explore The Highlands on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots in The Highlands, mapped for you.

The Highlands Essentials

The Highlands in Iceland are accessible primarily by road. The nearest major city is Reykjavik, which is about 200-300 kilometers away, depending on your specific destination within The Highlands. From Reykjavik, you can rent a car and drive, keeping in mind that some routes may require a 4x4 vehicle due to rough terrain. Alternatively, organized tours and shuttle buses are available from Reykjavik during the summer months. Note that many parts of The Highlands are only accessible during the summer (June to September) due to snow cover in the winter.
Within The Highlands, transportation options are limited. Renting a 4x4 vehicle is highly recommended for flexibility and ease of travel, as many routes are F-roads (mountain roads) that are not suitable for regular cars. Public transport is virtually non-existent in this remote area. If you prefer not to drive, consider booking an organized tour that includes transportation. Always check the road conditions and closures at road.is before setting out.
The official currency in Iceland is the Icelandic Krona (ISK). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted throughout the country, including remote areas like The Highlands. However, it is advisable to carry some cash, especially if you plan to visit very remote locations where card payment facilities might not be available. ATMs are available in larger towns before you enter The Highlands, such as in Reykjavik or Akureyri.
The Highlands are generally safe, but the remoteness and harsh conditions require careful preparation. There are no high-crime areas targeting tourists. However, the main risks are natural hazards such as sudden weather changes, river crossings, and rugged terrain. Always inform someone of your travel plans, carry a GPS and a detailed map, and ensure you have sufficient supplies, including food, water, and a first-aid kit. Check safetravel.is for up-to-date safety information.
In case of an emergency, dial 112 for assistance. This number connects you to police, fire, and medical services. Given the remote nature of The Highlands, response times can be longer than in urban areas. It is strongly recommended to carry a satellite phone and consider renting a personal locator beacon (PLB) for emergencies. Make sure you have comprehensive travel insurance that includes coverage for search and rescue.
Fashion: Do wear layers and waterproof clothing; the weather can change rapidly. Avoid wearing jeans as they do not dry quickly. Religion: Respect the natural environment, which many locals consider sacred. Public Transport: Public transport is not available in The Highlands. Plan accordingly. Greetings: A simple 'hello' or 'góðan daginn' (good day) is sufficient. Icelanders are generally informal. Eating & Drinking: Do try local foods if available, such as dried fish and skyr. Don’t leave litter; practice 'leave no trace' principles.
To experience The Highlands like a local, plan your visit during the brief summer months when the area is accessible. Participate in guided hikes to learn about the unique geology and history of the area. Join a local tour group for activities such as glacier hiking or ice cave exploration. Visit natural hot springs for a relaxing soak and converse with locals who often frequent these spots.

When is the best time to visit The Highlands?

With Eve

Useful Local Phrases for The Highlands

You don't need to speak the language perfectly. Even learning a few simple words can make conversations warmer—and locals usually appreciate the effort.

— Eve

6 phrase groups English + pronunciation

Here are the phrases I use most often in The Highlands. Try a few—you'll be surprised how far they go! 😊
❤️

- HelloHalló
  [haut-lo]
- GoodbyeBless
  [bless]
- YesJá
  [yow]
- NoNei
  [nay]
- Please/You're welcomeGjörðu svo vel
  [gyor-thoo-svo-vel]
- Thank youTakk fyrir
  [tahk-feer-ir]
- Excuse me/SorryFyrirgefðu
  [feer-ir-gef-thu]
- How are you?Hvernig hefur þú það?
  [kver-nik-he-vur-thoo-thath]
- Fine. And you?Fínt. Og þú?
  [feent-oh-thoo]
- Do you speak English?Talar þú ensku?
  [ta-lar-thoo-ens-koo]
- I don't understandÉg skil ekki
  [yeg-skil-ekki]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseÉg væri til í að sjá matsedilinn, takk
  [yeg-vair-ee-til-eeth-syaw-mat-seh-thil-inn-tahk]
- I don't eat meatÉg borða ekki kjöt
  [yeg-bor-tha-ekki-chyot]
- Cheers!Skál!
  [skowl]
- I would like to pay, pleaseÉg væri til í að greiða, takk
  [yeg-vair-ee-til-eeth-gray-tha-tahk]
- Help!Hjálp!
  [hyawlp]
- Go away!Farðu í burtu!
  [far-thoo-ee-bur-tu]
- Call the Police!Hringdu í lögregluna!
  [hring-doo-ee-log-re-gluna]
- Call a doctor!Hringdu í lækninn!
  [hring-doo-ee-layk-nin]
- I'm lostÉg er týndur
  [yeg-ayr-tin-thur]
- I'm illÉg er veikur
  [yeg-ayr-vay-kur]
- I'd like to buy...Ég væri til í að kaupa...
  [yeg-vair-ee-til-eeth-cow-pa]
- I'm just lookingÉg er bara að skoða
  [yeg-ayr-bara-ath-skow-tha]
- How much is it?Hvað kostar það?
  [kva-th-kos-tar-thath]
- That's too expensiveÞað er of dýrt
  [thath-ayr-of-dee-rt]
- Can you lower the price?Getur þú lækkað verðið?
  [ge-tur-thoo-lay-kauth-ver-thith]
- What time is it?Hvað er klukkan?
  [kva-th-ayr-kloo-kan]
- It's one o'clockKlukkan er eitt
  [kloo-kan-ayr-ayt]
- Half past (10)Hálf tíu
  [howlf-tee-oo]
- MorningMorgunn
  [mor-goon]
- AfternoonSíðdegis
  [seed-deh-yeesh]
- EveningKvöld
  [kvowl-th]
- YesterdayÍ gær
  [ee-gighr]
- TodayÍ dag
  [ee-dahg]
- TomorrowÁ morgun
  [ow-mor-goon]
- 1Einn
  [ayt-n]
- 2Tveir
  [t-vay-r]
- 3Þrír
  [threer]
- 4Fjórir
  [fyow-rir]
- 5Fimm
  [fim]
- 6Sex
  [sehx]
- 7Sjö
  [syow]
- 8Átta
  [ow-tha]
- 9Níu
  [nee-oo]
- 10Tíu
  [tee-oo]
- Where's a/the...?Hvar er ...?
  [kvar-ayr]
- What's the address?Hvað er heimilisfangið?
  [kva-th-ayr-hay-mil-is-fan-gith]
- Can you show me (on the map)?Getur þú sýnt mér (á kortinu)?
  [ge-tur-thoo-seent-mayr-ow-kor-thi-nu]
- When's the next (bus)?Hvenær kemur næsti (strætisvagn)?
  [kver-nayr-ke-mur-nay-sti-stray-tis-vagn]
- A ticket (to ....)Einn miða (til ...)
  [ayt-n-mee-tha-til]

History of The Highlands

The Highlands of Iceland were primarily formed through volcanic activity and glacial movements. The area is characterized by vast lava fields, rocky deserts, and expansive glaciers. This unique landscape began to take shape around 16 million years ago during the Miocene and Pliocene epochs, shaped by the Mid-Atlantic Ridge that runs through Iceland. The region's geological activity continues to this day, contributing to its dynamic and ever-changing scenery.
Though the Highlands are largely uninhabitable due to their harsh conditions, evidence suggests that the area was sporadically visited by early Icelandic settlers. These settlers, known as the Norsemen, arrived in Iceland around the late 9th century. They primarily used the Highlands for summer grazing lands, known as 'afréttir,' which were critical for their livestock.
The Icelandic Sagas, a series of epic narratives written in the 13th century, recount many events that occurred in the Highlands. One of the most famous sagas, 'Njáls Saga,' mentions the Highlands as a place of refuge and treacherous travel. The inhospitable terrain often served as a backdrop for tales of feuds, escapes, and survival.
During the medieval period, the Highlands served as an important but dangerous corridor for trade. Merchants and travelers braved the harsh environment to transport goods between the north and south of Iceland. These routes, known as 'leiðir,' were essential for the country's economy, despite the perilous conditions that often led to lost lives and goods.
In the late 18th and early 19th centuries, the Highlands saw a significant depopulation due to a series of natural disasters, including volcanic eruptions and harsh winters. This period, often referred to as the Highland Clearances, forced many inhabitants to abandon their farms and relocate to more hospitable areas. The region's harsh environment became even more pronounced during this time.
The 20th and 21st centuries have seen increased interest in the Highlands from both scientists and tourists. Modern technology has allowed for more detailed exploration and mapping of this rugged terrain. Conservation efforts have also been put in place to protect the fragile ecosystems and unique geological features of the area. Today, the Highlands are a popular destination for adventure tourism, offering activities such as hiking, glacier walking, and off-road driving.