Southern Region Iceland offers some of the most dramatic landscapes you can hike in. From vast glaciers and ice caves to bubbling hot springs and volcanic terrain, this area is a dream for outdoor enthusiasts. Many tours stand out, but we especially love options that combine breathtaking scenery with expert guidance, like the Sólheimajökull Glacier Hike and Ice Cave Tour for its stunning ice caves and surface hikes, and the challenging Day Trek to Hengill and the Hot Spring that offers a full day of exploring geothermal landscapes with a local guide. Whether you’re into icy adventures or volcanic hikes, Southern Iceland’s diverse terrain provides a memorable outdoor experience.
In this guide, we’ll explore six of the best hiking and trekking tours in the region, each offering a unique way to experience Iceland’s rugged beauty. From glacier walks to geothermal explorations, these tours are tailored to different fitness levels and interests, helping you decide which adventure fits you best.
1. Solheimajökull: Glacier Hike and Ice Cave Tour
At number one, the Solheimajökull: Glacier Hike and Ice Cave Tour stands out for its combination of surface glacier exploration and inside an incredible ice cave. This 3.5-hour adventure is perfect for travelers who want a taste of both worlds—standing on the glacier’s crevassed surface and stepping into a naturally formed blue ice cave. The guide leads the group across the glacier, pointing out volcanic ash layers from past eruptions and showing deep crevasses that highlight the glacier’s dynamic nature.
What makes this tour special is the chance to see a crystal-clear blue ice cave that’s accessible only in certain seasons. The guide’s expertise ensures safety while explaining the glacier’s formations and ongoing changes. It’s rated 5/5 based on 12 reviews, with many travelers praising the clarity of the ice cave and the knowledgeable guide. For roughly $165, you get an immersive experience that’s well worth the price, especially considering the rarity of entering an ice cave safely.
Bottom line: This tour is ideal for those wanting a memorable glacier experience with a focus on ice caves. Its balanced mix of surface hiking and cave exploration makes it a top choice for first-timers and seasoned adventurers alike.
2. Day Trek to Hengill and the Hot Spring
Number two on our list is the Day Trek to Hengill and the Hot Spring — a full-day challenge that combines Iceland’s volcanic wilderness with relaxing hot springs. This tour typically lasts about 9 hours, giving you plenty of time to explore the rugged landscapes of Hengill Mountain, a geothermal area noted for its steaming vents and bubbling mud pots. Led by an International Mountain Leader, you’ll learn how to navigate the terrain and gain outdoor skills along the way.
What makes this trek stand out is the opportunity to soak in a natural hot spring amidst stunning scenery. It’s a rewarding experience that blends physical activity with relaxation, perfect for active travelers who enjoy learning about Iceland’s geothermal activity firsthand. The itinerary includes exploring hidden corners of the mountain, with plenty of opportunities for photos and discovery. Although it’s rated 4.8/5, some may find the full-day commitment demanding—so be prepared for a vigorous hike.
Bottom line: This tour is best suited for physically fit travelers who want an in-depth exploration of geothermal landscapes combined with a soothing dip in a hot spring—definitely a full-sensory Iceland experience.
3. From Highland Base: Hike to the geothermal gem Hverabotn
At number three, the Hike to the geothermal gem Hverabotn offers a less-trodden route through the Hveradalir area, famous for hot springs, mud pots, and fumaroles. Starting from the Highland Base at Kerlingarfjöll, this 4-hour guided hike takes you along quieter trails, away from the crowds, to witness some of Iceland’s most impressive geothermal activity.
Your guide will point out hot springs and fumaroles that have been active for centuries, and you’ll get an up-close look at the colorful mineral deposits that adorn the landscape. The journey is ideal for travelers with a moderate fitness level who want a more intimate experience with Iceland’s geothermal forces. The tour has a solid reputation, though specific review ratings aren’t provided, but the focus on less-traveled paths makes it appealing for those seeking authenticity.
Bottom line: Perfect for curious hikers interested in geothermal phenomena and less commercialized trails, this tour offers a solid introduction to Iceland’s volcanic power in a manageable timeframe.
4. Solheimajökull: Ice Cave & Glacier Hike
Number four is the Solheimajökull: Ice Cave & Glacier Hike, combining a surface glacier walk with a visit to a newly discovered ice cave. This 4-hour tour emphasizes exploring the glacier’s icy landscape, with the highlight being the Azure Ice Cave, known for its vivid blue hues. Your guide will take you across the glacier, pointing out crevasses and ridges that showcase the glacier’s dynamic structure.
What sets this tour apart is the focus on the ice cave exploration, providing an opportunity to see where the melting and refreezing create stunning ice formations. The guide’s expertise ensures safety, and the gear provided, including crampons and helmets, make this a safe yet exhilarating experience. With a rating of 4.7/5 based on 6 reviews, travelers appreciate the rarity of seeing the ice cave and the clarity of the ice.
Bottom line: This experience is ideal for those who want a straightforward glacier hike combined with the chance to step inside a spectacular ice cave—great for photographers and adventurers alike.
5. Solheimajökull: Glacier Hike and Ice Climbing Tour
Number five, the Glacier Hike and Ice Climbing Tour, takes your glacier adventure to the next level by adding ice climbing. Over four hours, you’ll explore the glacier’s water cauldrons, ridges, and deep crevasses before learning how to climb ice with an experienced guide. This is the most physically demanding tour on our list, suited for those with a decent level of fitness and a sense of adventure.
The guide’s expertise ensures safety while you learn the basics of ice climbing, making this a perfect choice if you’re looking for an adrenaline rush. The glacier’s majestic landscape provides plenty of photo opportunities, and the skill-building aspect makes it stand out. Price-wise, at $196 per person, it’s a significant investment but offers a hands-on experience you won’t forget.
Bottom line: Best for thrill-seekers and those eager to try ice climbing, this tour combines glacier exploration with a physically challenging activity, providing a full-day adventure.
6. Solheimajökull: Glacier Hike and Blue Ice Cave Tour
Our final pick is the Solheimajökull: Glacier Hike and Blue Ice Cave Tour, which emphasizes both glacier trekking and exploring a newly discovered blue ice cave. This 3.5-hour tour provides all necessary gear—ice axes, crampons, helmets—and a knowledgeable guide to help you navigate the icy terrain.
The main highlight is the chance to see and photograph the striking blue ice cave, often considered one of Iceland’s most beautiful ice formations. The guide will explain the glacier’s features, including crevasses and ridges, giving you a deeper understanding of the icy landscape. The emphasis on safety and the relatively short duration make this accessible to most travelers.
Bottom line: For those wanting a shorter but visually stunning glacier experience with an inside tour of the ice cave, this is a solid choice, especially for photographers or those short on time.
How to Choose the Best Hiking and Trekking Tour in Southern Iceland
When selecting among these options, consider your fitness level, interests, and time availability. For a quick but memorable ice cave experience, the Solheimajökull Ice Cave & Glacier Hike offers a perfect short adventure. If you want a full day of geothermal exploration coupled with a hot spring dip, the Hengill trek is ideal. For a deeper dive into Iceland’s volcanic activity, the Hverabotn hike provides an intimate look at geothermal wonders.
Budget-wise, tours range from about $157 to $196, but the value lies in the experience’s uniqueness and guides’ expertise. Booking early is recommended, especially for popular ice cave tours, which depend heavily on seasonal conditions.
Final Thoughts
Southern Iceland offers a diverse menu of outdoor adventures, from glaciers and ice caves to geothermal treks. If you’re after dramatic ice formations, the glacier hikes combined with ice cave visits stand out, but don’t overlook the geothermal hikes for a different kind of rugged beauty. For travelers seeking a physically demanding day, the Hengill hot spring trek is a rewarding challenge.
No matter which you choose, these tours promise memorable experiences in Iceland’s captivating landscape. Book early, prepare for changing weather, and gear up for some of the most striking scenery you’ll ever see on foot.