The Iceland Trail

Before your trip starts, you’ll get access to the Travelbase app, which contains detailed information about all the routes, highlights and practical details.

Guided trails

• Experienced English speaking guides will be there to help you whenever you need them. They also carry a GPS tracker with an emergency signal, so they can raise the alarm if necessary. You’ll also get a briefing every morning and evening with extra tips and tricks.
• Guided hut-to-hut treks are accompanied by one guide and are limited to small groups of up to 10 people.

Self-guided trails

• This means you’ll be walking completely independently during the day. We’ll make sure you have everything you need to make your hike a success. The trail app includes clear day-by-day descriptions, navigation and tips to help you prepare for different situations. A ranger is available at every campsite in the evening to answer questions, provide spare equipment and offer support, but you’re responsible for yourself on the trail during the day.

You’ll hike independently during the day, so we expect you to have experience with multi-day treks and be able to navigate independently using the trail app and offline maps. For self-guided departures, we recommend booking as a pair or in a small group.

You can optionally add overnight stays in the huts for €600 per person (Friday departures only).

Use the questions below to quickly check whether self-guided is right for you:

• Do you have experience with multi-day hikes?
• Can you navigate independently using an app and offline map?
• Can you set and adjust your own pace, breaks and daily schedule based on the weather conditions?
• Can you provide basic first aid and fix minor equipment problems yourself?
• Are you self-reliant and able to make your own decisions in the event of an injury or emergency? (We’ll provide you with clear guidelines in the trail app!)

Did you answer yes to all the questions? Then a self-guided departure is right for you! Still have some doubts? Feel free to email us at info@theicelandtrail.com.

On-site support depends on which type of Iceland Trail you book with us.

Guided trips

• English speaking guides on the trail to help if you run into difficulties
• Daily briefings and instructions, including extra tips and tricks
• Walk at your own pace, as long as you stay between the first and last guide
• Guides spread out across the group. The guides at the back are there to support hikers who run into problems. If you feel more comfortable walking alongside a guide, you can of course follow the guide’s route at all times.
• For safety reasons, the guides may decide to keep the group together.

Self-guided trips

• Walk completely independently during the day, without guides on the trail
• Everything is arranged for you in advance: transport, accommodation, optional extras…
• A ranger is present at the campsites every day to help if needed
• We expect you to have experience with multi-day hikes and be able to navigate independently using the trail app and offline maps

Guided hut-to-hut treks

• One English speaking guide accompanies you on the trail to help if you run into difficulties
• Daily briefings and instructions, including extra tips and tricks
• You will be accompanied by one guide in a small group. We give you as much freedom as possible to walk at your own pace.
• For safety reasons, the guide may decide to keep the group together.

Just before departure, you’ll also get access to a chat with all participants departing on the same date. You can use the group to communicate with one another or with our team.

With luggage transport, you can enjoy comfortable hikes during the day with just a light backpack (30 to 35 litres). On average, 75% of travellers opt for luggage transport. It’s definitely recommended if you’re not used to hiking with a fully loaded pack.

Looking for an extra challenge? You can also choose to carry all your belongings and camping gear in your large backpack. Make sure you include some loaded-pack hikes in your training.

Anyone aged 16 to 65, in good physical shape and up for an adventure can take on this trail. The trip involves a solid amount of physical activity, so good health is essential. Keep in mind that the weather can be changeable.

Children aren’t allowed. Still want to go hiking with your family? Hike Tribe is a better alternative.

Important for self-guided trips

Our self-guided trails are only suitable for hikers with experience in multi-day treks.

Want to try a multi-day trek for the first time, but unsure about your fitness level?

Ask yourself these questions:

• What types of physical activity do I do regularly, and for how long?
• Have I had any recent injuries that affect my ability to hike?
• Can I comfortably walk 15 kilometres over hilly terrain?
• Can I train specifically over the coming months to prepare properly?

If your answers give you every confidence to head off on an adventure, this trail is definitely for you! A week after booking, you’ll receive a training plan to help you prepare and complete the trail comfortably.

Still unsure and would like to test yourself before setting off on the trail?

Try one of our micro-adventures, such as The Packraft Trail.

You’ll receive a packing list well in advance, with an overview of all the equipment you’ll need.

The basic requirements are:

• Hiking boots, at least category A/B, that properly protect your ankles
• A backpack or duffel bag (approximately 65–80 L) and a daypack (30–35 L)
• A technical rain jacket and rain trousers: be prepared for changing weather conditions. Rainwear with a waterproof rating of at least 15,000 mm is essential, and don’t forget to pack warm clothes. Evenings can get quite chilly.
• Good-quality camping gear: if you’re bringing your own equipment, make sure you have a tent (at least three-season), a sleeping mat (minimum R-value of 3) and a sleeping bag (minimum comfort temperature of 2°C).

You can also rent camping equipment and hiking poles from us.