Off the Beaten Path Tours in Iceland

If you’re someone who delights in finding lesser-visited spots and seeing the forces of nature in action, then a trip to the highlands is a must.

Located in the heart of Iceland, this is one of the country’s most sparsely populated regions. Here colourful volcanic mountains, milky blue lakes and remote hot springs await you.

It is worth noting that the routes into the highlands are unpaved roads or tracks, noted on maps as F-roads. These are closed in winter due to the harsh weather conditions, so make sure to visit in summer to avoid disappointment.

If you’re thinking about taking a road trip, you’ll need to be comfortable driving on uneven roads and crossing rivers in a 4x4 vehicle to travel here. But if driving a super jeep on rough terrain isn’t for you, don’t worry! Instead have a local expert take you on a private or multi-day tour.

Check out these attractions and best places to visit in the highlands.

Just like elsewhere in Iceland, the country's north has hidden gems waiting to be discovered. Some of the best lesser-visited places in North Iceland are:

• • Skagafjörður - Known for its abundance of Icelandic horses, this remote district stretches north from the Hofsjökull glacier to the rugged coastline. On a visit here, you can learn about Grettir’s Saga, the legend behind “Grettir’s Pool”, or check out the folk museum at Glaumbær.
• • Tröllaskagi peninsula - Tröllaskagi, which translates as the “Peninsula of the Trolls”, is home to beautiful wide fjords and jagged peaks. Head to the genealogical museum in the village of Hofsós if you are hoping to trace family ties to Iceland’s emigrants.
• • Hveravellir - This region gets its name, meaning “Hot Spring Plains”, from the high number of geothermal pools found here. You can explore this otherworldly landscape on boardwalks that wind their way through the fumaroles and bright blue pools.
• • Borgarvirki - Don’t miss a visit to the natural fortress at Borgarvirki, on Vatnsnes Peninsula, for amazing views with a sprinkle of folklore and Viking history. Formed of vertical basalt columns, this impressive geological feature overlooks the surrounding landscape. People have been using the fortress as a defensive structure for hundreds of years, but its exact history isn’t known.

You can reach Iceland’s far north by car as part of a complete road trip around the island. Alternatively, fly from Reykjavík to Akureyri Airport (45 minutes). 

Find out more about things to see and do in North Iceland in this guide. It's also possible to venture even further off the beaten path by combining Iceland and Greenland, for an unforgettable adventure. 

You can travel off the beaten path in Iceland on your own or with a guide.

One of the best ways to discover Iceland’s hidden gems is to go on a self-drive tour. This is ideal if you prefer to travel solo, or with your loved ones.

On a self-drive tour, you can set your own pace, and stop wherever you like along the way. Don’t worry, you won’t feel like you’re on your own, with recommendations from your travel consultant and 24/7 support, should you need it.

Or you could opt for a multi-day tour package. You’ll have free time to spend as you wish, and other days where you’ll benefit from the knowledge of a guide on your chosen day trips.

Alternatively, if you’d prefer to have the full attention of a guide throughout your trip, then a private tour is the right choice for you. They’ll take you to hidden gem spots in Iceland and will have plenty of local lore to share with you.

Once you’ve picked your package, you can select the arrival date that suits you from a calendar displaying tour availability. Bear in mind that certain itineraries can only be booked in summer or winter, depending on the featured destinations and experiences.

For example, our self-drive tours that go to hidden gem spots are only available in the summer season, which is from May to September. In some cases, these packages may only be available in the peak summer season – June to August – depending on the driving route.

This is because driving is too difficult in off-the-beaten-path locations during the winter season. It’s not possible to drive in the highlands at this time of year as the mountain roads are closed. Plus, there are some activities in these places that are more suited to the summer months.

On the other hand, our hidden gem northern lights packages are suitable only for the winter months. This is when the skies are at their darkest, giving you the best chance of seeing the aurora borealis. For these multi-day tours, you’d be driven by a local guide who knows the roads well.

Not sure which arrival date to choose? Speak to your travel consultant and they will advise on the best start date based on your interests and availability.

Absolutely, our self-drive, private and multi-day tours in Iceland are easily tailored to suit your needs. Extend your trip by adding extra nights along the way. For example, you may like to spend more time in Reykjavík so you can visit the sights before heading off the beaten track.

Customise your itinerary by choosing from a variety of excursions. You can try activities like horse riding, kayaking and snowmobiling.

Get in touch with us to ask about customising a tour.

We advise checking what flights are available before booking your tour with us. However, please wait until your tour details are confirmed before booking your flights, as there are limited accommodation and excursion spaces.

Once you have all of your tour tickets and your itinerary is finalised, you can book your flights.

If you book your trip online, you will typically hear from your consultant no more than 2 working days after receiving your payment confirmation email.

Waiting to speak to your travel consultant will also give you the opportunity to ask any questions you may have about your arrival and departure arrangements.

From season to season, and day to day, Iceland’s weather is famously changeable. So it’s best to be prepared for a little of everything!

The basics include sun protection and waterproof clothing. In summer, you’ll need light layering options for the milder weather. In winter, don't skimp on warm layers and woollens because temperatures can drop below freezing.

Swimwear and sandals are also recommended if you plan to visit a hot spring. However, these can also be rented at the more popular geothermal pools.

Here is a basic all-season packing list for your trip to Iceland:

• Waterproof and windproof jacket
• Waterproof trousers
• Fleece or wool layers
• Insulated jacket
• Gloves (a light and heavier pair)
• Scarf or neck warmer
• Warm hat (beanie)
• Swimwear
• Quick-drying travel towel (for bathing at remote hot springs)
• Thermal underwear
• Warm socks
• Daypack
• Reusable water bottle
• Plug adapters (Europlug Type C and F)

You’ll find tips, and additional seasonal packing advice, in this helpful Iceland packing guide.