Day Trek to Seltun: Smoky Mountains and Lakes – moderate

Exploring Iceland’s Wild Heart: A Review of the Day Trek to Seltún: Smoky Mountains and Lakes

If you’re craving an outdoor adventure that takes you beyond the typical tourist paths in Iceland, this day trek around Seltún on the Reykjanes Peninsula might just be your perfect match. It promises a full-day experience filled with geothermal wonders, tranquil lakes, and rugged mountain scenery, all led by a knowledgeable international mountain guide. While we haven’t personally done this trek, the detailed itinerary and reviews point to an authentic, rewarding experience for adventure lovers.

What really catches our attention is how this tour balances stunning scenery with practical skills like orienteering, making it ideal for those who want more than just pretty views. The small-group setting and expert guidance seem designed to foster a personal connection to the landscape. However, it’s worth noting that the trek covers a moderate 15 km with 560 meters of elevation gain, so some previous hiking experience is recommended. This experience is best suited for active travelers over 16 who love a good challenge paired with natural beauty.

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Key Points

• Stunning scenery including geothermal areas, lakes, and mountain views
• Expert guidance from a certified international mountain leader
• Skill-building in orienteering and outdoor navigation
• Balanced difficulty suitable for most active hikers
• Small group sizes for personalized attention
• Flexible booking options with pay-later reservations

The Route and Its Unique Appeal

This trek begins with a roughly 40-minute drive from Reykjavik, placing it conveniently close for those staying in the capital. Once you arrive at the parking lot, your guide will be waiting to kick off a truly scenic day. The trail spans approximately 15 km (9.3 miles), with an elevation rise of 560 meters (1,840 feet) — a moderate challenge that rewards you with extraordinary vistas.

What makes this route stand out is its combination of geothermal activity and pristine lakes, set amidst mossy hills and dramatic mountain backdrops. Unlike busy tourist sites, you’ll find yourself exploring trails far from crowds, where the silence is only broken by the bubbling geothermal vents and your own footsteps. The landscape is described as “mossy,” with many hidden lakes awaiting discovery, each offering a perfect spot for rest and reflection.

Geothermal Wonders and Beyond

The journey’s starting point at Seltún is itself a highlight. Known for its bubbling mud pots and steaming vents, this geothermal area encapsulates Iceland’s volcanic energy. Walking through this area gives you a raw sense of the land’s power, as you observe the earth releasing steam and sulfurous fumes right beneath your feet. Guides often share insights into the geothermal processes, making this part both visually and educationally fascinating.

Beyond Seltún, the route continues into areas where lakes shimmer among rugged mountains, offering picture-perfect moments that photographers and nature lovers will relish. These lakes are often untouched, with reflective surfaces that mirror the mountain peaks and sky, creating a peaceful contrast to the geothermal activity.

The Experience of the Trek

The highlight, according to reviews, is the chance to see Iceland’s wilderness in its most unspoiled form. The terrain varies from rocky paths to moss-covered slopes, providing diverse textures underfoot. The trek’s moderate difficulty level means that while it’s accessible to most, it still offers enough of a challenge to make you feel accomplished.

Your guide will teach you orienteering techniques—using a compass, reading maps, and understanding terrain features—to help you navigate confidently through this wild landscape. This skill aspect adds a layer of empowerment, especially if you’re planning to explore Iceland independently in the future. It’s an engaging way to connect with the environment while gaining practical outdoor skills.

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What the Guides Bring to the Table

Led by a certified International Mountain Leader, the guides are well-versed in Iceland’s terrain and safety protocols. They offer personalized attention in small groups, which many reviewers appreciate. One reviewer mentioned how their guide, whose name isn’t specified but evidently very knowledgeable, made the experience both fun and educational, sharing stories and tips along the way.

Safety equipment and first aid are included, ensuring peace of mind. The focus on safety is crucial given the unpredictable Icelandic weather, which can change from sunny to rainy in minutes. It’s advised to bring rain gear, gloves, and a layered outfit, along with essentials like water, snacks, and a packed lunch. The guide often recommends carrying a spare T-shirt, just in case.

Practical Details and What to Expect

Duration and Timing

The entire experience lasts about 7 hours, with the specific start time depending on availability. The tour begins with a short drive from Reykjavik, giving you time to settle in and prepare. Expect to spend most of the day outdoors, so comfortable hiking shoes are a must.

Group Size and Flexibility

Small groups or private options are available, which means your experience will be tailored and intimate. This setup allows your guide to focus on individual needs and makes for a more relaxed atmosphere—ideal for those who prefer a less crowded adventure.

What’s Included and What’s Not

Included in the price are the expert guide, safety equipment, and the orienteering lesson. All fees and taxes are covered, ensuring no surprise expenses. However, transportation to and from the starting point, meals, drinks, and personal gear like hiking poles are not included. Travelers should budget for these separately, especially if they want to maximize comfort.

Cost and Value

While the exact price isn’t specified here, considering the inclusion of a professional guide, safety gear, and personalized instruction, this tour offers good value for those looking to combine outdoor activity with skill-building. It’s not a cheap day out, but the experience of exploring Iceland’s untouched wilderness with expert support makes it worthwhile.

What Reviewers Say (Based on Provided Data)

A common theme among reviews is the stunning scenery—many mention the “beautiful lakes” and “dramatic mountain views” as highlights. One reviewer appreciated the chance to explore trails far from the crowds, emphasizing the serenity and raw beauty of the landscape.

The educational component, especially learning orienteering, is frequently praised. One said, “I learned so much about navigating in the wild, which made me feel much more confident about future hikes.” The skill aspect adds a sense of achievement, especially for those new to outdoor navigation.

Some reviewers mentioned the importance of being prepared for weather changes, with one noting that the weather can shift rapidly, making layered clothing essential. The recommendation to bring snacks, water, and a packed lunch was echoed, ensuring travelers stay energized throughout the day.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This trek is perfect for adventurous souls who enjoy moderate hikes and are eager to learn new outdoor skills. It appeals to those interested in geothermal landscapes and pristine lakes and values small group experiences for a more personal touch. Given the emphasis on safety and instruction, it’s suitable for confident beginners ready for a challenge, as long as they’re over 16.

It’s less suitable for travelers with mobility issues or wheelchair users, due to the terrain and elevation changes. Also, those seeking a relaxing, passive sightseeing tour will find this more active and engaging.

The Sum Up

In essence, the Day Trek to Seltún: Smoky Mountains and Lakes offers a fantastic opportunity to see some of Iceland’s most striking natural features away from crowded spots. It combines breathtaking scenery, outdoor skills, and expert guidance into a full-day adventure that’s as enriching as it is memorable. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker looking to refine your navigation skills or a curious traveler eager to connect with Iceland’s raw landscapes, this experience provides genuine value.

The small-group format, focus on safety, and diverse terrain make it a standout choice for those who want to explore with purpose and confidence. Prepare for a day filled with awe, learning, and fresh mountain air—an authentic Icelandic adventure that could very well be one of your most treasured hikes.

FAQ

What is the difficulty level of this trek?
It’s classified as moderate, making it suitable for most active hikers with some experience. The 15 km distance and 560 meters of elevation gain are manageable but still require a good level of fitness.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience lasts approximately 7 hours, including driving, hiking, and instruction time.

Is transportation included?
No, transportation to and from the starting point is not included; you’ll need to arrange your own transfer.

What should I bring?
Bring a hat, snacks, hiking shoes, water, rain gear, gloves, and a packed lunch. A spare T-shirt can be handy in case of weather changes.

Can I learn outdoor skills on this tour?
Yes, you’ll receive an orienteering lesson, including how to use a compass and read terrain features, which enhances your navigation confidence.

Is this suitable for children?
No, participants must be over 16 years old, and those with mobility issues or wheelchair users may find the terrain challenging.

This tour is a chance to discover Iceland’s wild beauty in a hands-on way, perfect for explorers eager to combine scenic views with outdoor skills. If you’re ready for a moderate challenge and unforgettable landscapes, this adventure might just be your next great outdoor story.

You can check availability for your dates here: