Table of Contents
- 1The Challenge of Getting to the Interior of Iceland
- 2The Risks of Self-Driving
- 3Environmental and Legal Considerations
- 4Iceland Highlands Bus Destinations and Routes
- 5Schedule: Flexibility for Long-Distance Hikers and Day-Trippers
- 6A Win-Win for Travelers and Nature
- 7Questions and Answers about Iceland's Highland Bus
The Challenge of Getting to the Interior of Iceland
Iceland’s Highlands stand as one of Europe’s last great wilderness areas—a vast, rugged expanse of raw beauty where nature reigns supreme. Towering mountains, steaming geothermal areas, black sand deserts, and glacier-carved valleys stretch endlessly across the interior of the island, drawing adventurers seeking the road less traveled.
But getting there? That’s the tricky part.
The Highlands are not for the faint-hearted, nor for the unprepared. Unlike the coastal roads that loop around the island, the paths into the Highlands are unpaved, frequently crossed by glacial rivers, and demand specialized 4x4 vehicles to navigate. Even the most experienced drivers can find themselves stuck or stranded in the face of unpredictable weather, rapidly rising river levels, or loose gravel roads. For many, the desire to explore this remote paradise clashes with the reality of the risks involved.
This is why the Highland Bus is a lifeline for adventurers who want to experience the Highlands without the stress and danger of driving themselves. This service not only ensures safe passage to some of the most iconic hiking trails and scenic locations but also provides a budget-friendly and eco-conscious alternative to renting a heavy-duty 4x4.
The Highlands of Iceland
The Icelandic Highlands is one of Europe’s largest wilderness areas, Situated above 300–400 meters (1000–1300 feet) and is mostly uninhabitable. The soil is primarily volcanic ash, and the terrain consists of basalt mountains and lava fields. Snow covers the Highland from October until the beginning of June.
The Risks of Self-Driving
The allure of the Highlands often tempts travelers to rent a 4x4 and venture into the wilderness on their own. However, what many fail to realize is just how challenging and unforgiving these roads can be. The rugged terrain is punctuated by swift river crossings, narrow and sharp turns that can become treacherous with little warning. Inexperienced drivers frequently underestimate the difficulty, leading to vehicle damage and dangerous situations.
A major issue lies in gathering reliable information ahead of time. Many travelers turn to personal blogs, YouTube channels, or social media accounts for advice on driving in the Highlands. However, these stories can paint a misleading picture. One person’s experience of smooth river crossings or dry paths may be entirely dependent on factors such as weather, driving skills, water levels, and even luck. A route that seemed passable for one individual could become treacherous for the next. Driving skill, familiarity with river crossings, and vehicle type all play critical roles—none of which are easily conveyed through a highlight reel on social media.
Adding to the complexity is the fact that there are no gas stations, repair shops, or even cell service for large stretches of the Highlands. A single miscalculation can mean hours of waiting for help or abandoning the vehicle altogether. Even locals, familiar with the terrain, find themselves in tricky situations, emphasizing the risks to those unfamiliar with Iceland’s unique landscape.
The Highland Bus eliminates these dangers by placing travelers in the hands of experienced and skilled local drivers who navigate the region daily. With specialized vehicles designed for rugged terrain and river crossings, the bus service reduces the risk of accidents and ensures that adventurers can focus on the journey, not the logistics.
For those hesitant to take on the Highlands alone, The Highland Bus is the ultimate peace of mind.
Environmental and Legal Considerations
Another strong reason to take the Highland bus, even if you rent a car for the rest of your trip, is to protect the environment. The Highlands simply cannot handle the influx of vehicles. The heavy use of these unpaved roads causes wear and tear that’s difficult to repair. Adding to the problem, social media influencers often post videos of themselves driving in rugged areas, sometimes straying off-road, which severely damages the landscape.
The Icelandic Highlands are incredibly fragile. The volcanic soil and moss-covered plains can take decades—or even centuries—to recover from damage in this harsh climate. Driving off-road leaves deep scars that disrupt the delicate ecosystem, leading to erosion and lasting changes to the landscape.
This isn’t just an environmental issue—it’s a cultural one. The Highlands hold deep significance for Icelanders, and reckless behavior in these pristine areas often leads to frustration and backlash from locals. Off-road driving in Iceland is strictly illegal and carries hefty fines. Authorities are vigilant, and locals actively report violations.
One fully booked bus can replace 10 to 20 cars on the road and in the nature reserve parking lots, if not more. By choosing this option, you can help to reduce the number of vehicles entering the region, preserving the landscape for future generations.
The Highlands are deeply valued by Icelanders, and reckless behavior in these pristine areas often sparks frustration and backlash from locals.
Iceland Highlands Bus Destinations and Routes
The Highland Bus connects travelers to three primary destinations: Þórsmörk, Landmannalaugar, and Skógar. These locations serve as gateways to some of Iceland’s most famous hiking routes.
Þórsmörk – A popular destination for hikers, Þórsmörk is the starting point of the Fimmvörðuháls trail and the endpoint of the Laugavegur trail, two of Iceland’s most iconic multi-day hikes. Þórsmörk itself offers a variety of shorter trails, making it ideal for day trips or overnight stays. The lush, sheltered valley is a beloved summer retreat for locals, with many choosing to stay for several days to enjoy its peaceful atmosphere and numerous hiking options.
Landmannalaugar – Known for its geothermal activity and strikingly colorful rhyolite mountains, Landmannalaugar marks the start of the Laugavegur trail. Hikers flock to this area to experience its dramatic landscapes, whether for shorter day hikes or to begin the multi-day trek to Þórsmörk. The natural hot springs provide a perfect way to relax after a day of exploration.
Skógar – Famous for the stunning Skógafoss waterfall, Skógar is the endpoint of the Fimmvörðuháls trail. This challenging route passes through volcanic craters, glacial terrain, and scenic highland landscapes, rewarding hikers with breathtaking views along the way.
Schedule: Flexibility for Long-Distance Hikers and Day-Trippers
Hikers can trek from Landmannalaugar to Þórsmörk and continue to Skógar, or complete the route in reverse. The full trek typically takes between four to seven days, with the option to extend the journey for relaxation or additional day hikes in certain areas.
Since the route starts in one location and ends in another, driving to the trailhead isn't practical—hikers finish the trail in a different spot. There’s no direct transportation between the two trail ends unless you take the Highland Bus. Instead of driving to Landmannalaugar, it's best to leave your car in Reykjavík or at one of the Highland Bus stops along the South Coast (Selfoss, Hella, Hvolsvöllur) and take the bus from there.
For those not looking to complete the entire trek, Þórsmörk and Landmannalaugar offer rewarding day trips or overnight stays, with plenty of shorter, less-traveled hiking paths to explore.
Activities and Highlights at Each Destination
- Landmannalaugar – Popular hikes include the Brennisteinsalda trail, known for its colorful sulfur-streaked mountains, the Laugahraun lava field, and the natural hot springs where visitors can unwind after a day of hiking.
- Þórsmörk – Trails such as Valahnúkur and Tindfjallahringur provide stunning panoramic views of the surrounding valleys and glaciers. Day hikes along the Fimmvörðuháls trail also offer breathtaking scenery. Many locals enjoy spending extended time in Þórsmörk, often staying for a week or more to soak in the valley’s beauty and hiking opportunities. It’s a cherished destination for outdoor-loving families seeking a peaceful yet adventurous escape
- Skógar – Visitors can explore Skógafoss waterfall and hike portions of the Fimmvörðuháls trail, with its dramatic landscapes shaped by volcanic activity. The first 5-6 kilometres offer countless waterfalls, picturesque canyons, and an incredibly rewarding hike.
The Highland Bus operates throughout the summer, as highland roads and hiking trails become inaccessible outside of this season. During the off-season, access to the region is limited, with a few specialized super jeep and ski tours available. Beyond these options, the area remains largely unreachable. Here is the Highland Bus schedule for the 2025 summer season.
A Win-Win for Travelers and Nature
The Highland Bus is a lifeline for exploring Iceland’s Highlands while treading lightly on the environment. It’s an easy, affordable way to reach some of the country’s most remote and beautiful areas without having to worry about rough roads or the environmental impact of driving.
For solo hikers or families, it’s a practical and stress-free way to experience the wild without the risks that come with self-driving in these sensitive landscapes. It’s a real win-win – travelers get to enjoy the adventure, and Iceland’s environment is better off for it.
Questions and Answers about Iceland's Highland Bus
The Highland Bus – formerly known as "Iceland On Your Own" – is Reykjavik Excursions' scheduled summer bus service, designed to connect independent travelers with Iceland’s most iconic hiking routes.
Iceland’s vast, untouched wilderness make it a paradise for hikers, and the Highland Bus offers a seamless way to experience this natural beauty. For those eager to explore the Highlands at their own pace but also in a sustainable way, the Highland Bus provides transport from Reykjavík to three main destinations: Skógar, Þórsmörk, and Landmannalaugar. This service is an affordable, eco-friendly alternative to self-driving on rugged highland roads.
No, the Highland Bus operates as a scheduled transport service without guides. This bus is designed for independent travelers who prefer to explore Iceland’s Highlands at their own pace.
While there are no guides on board, the service offers reliable and convenient access to some of Iceland’s most stunning hiking areas, allowing you to plan your adventure and experience the natural beauty on your own terms.
We offer baggage transfer services to Þórsmörk, with delivery available to three areas: Húsadalur (Volcano Huts), Langidalur, and Básar. The price per item is 2000 ISK, and payment can be processed on-site at the BSÍ bus terminal or directly with your bus driver if departing from Hvolsvöllur, Hella, or any other stop along the route.
The baggage transfer allows for one backpack, box, or cabin-size bag with maximum dimensions of 55x40x20 cm and a maximum weight of 10 kg, plus one sleeping bag. Items must be waterproof and properly labeled.
Please note that depending on the delivery location, baggage may be placed in an unattended room or trailer until collected.
Reykjavik Excursions assumes no responsibility for baggage after drop-off, but in the Icelandic Highlands, this is rarely a concern. You do not need to book baggage transfer for items you bring with you on the hike—this service is only for sending bags to a different location than the one you are traveling to.
For travelers finishing their hike in Þórsmörk or Landmannalaugar, we offer baggage transfer for a small fee. In Þórsmörk, you can choose between three delivery locations: Húsadalur (Volcano Huts), Langidalur, or Básar. There is no need to make a reservation for baggage delivery – payment can be made at the BSÍ bus terminal, Hvolsvöllur, or Hella before departure.
The baggage transfer is limited to one backpack, box, or cabin-size bag, plus a sleeping bag. The maximum luggage size, excluding the sleeping bag, is 55x40x20 cm, with a maximum weight of 10 kg. Please ensure all items are placed in a waterproof bag and properly labeled.
Depending on the delivery location, baggage may be left in an unattended room or trailer until collected. Reykjavik Excursions assumes no responsibility for baggage after drop-off, but in the Icelandic Highlands, this is rarely a concern.
Baggage transfer is not required for items you carry with you during the hike – the service is only necessary if you are sending bags to a different location from where you are traveling.
Direct pick-up and drop-off at hotels are not included. Most of our departures from Reykjavík stop at Reykjavík City Hostel/Campsite and the BSÍ Bus Terminal. Travelers can easily join the bus from these convenient locations.
Children 3 or 4 years and older (over 18 kg) can use the normal seat belts on our buses. Children 0-3 years of age must use an appropriate child's car seats. Please note that Reykjavík Excursions does not provide child seats on the Highland Bus.
Yes, Landmannalaugar is one of the few areas in the Icelandic Highlands that can be accessible during winter, but only through guided tours. We strongly advise against self-driving due to impassable, snow-covered highland roads, limited daylight, and unpredictable weather conditions. Even the Highland Bus does not operate during the winter months.
For those wanting to experience Landmannalaugar in winter, Super Jeep tours or guided ski tours are available and include transport to the area, providing a safe and exciting way to explore this stunning winter landscape.
The easiest and most eco-driendly way to visit this fragile but rugged area is taking the Highland Bus. Operated by Reykjavik Excursions, offers scheduled services during the summer months, providing an easy and affordable way to reach popular Highland destinations like Þórsmörk, Landmannalaugar, and Skógar. This service is ideal for hikers and independent travelers looking to explore the Highlands without the hassle of driving. The bus departs from Reykjavík, with stops at the BSÍ Bus Terminal and Reykjavík City Hostel/Campsite and makes several stops along the South Coast. It allows you to immerse yourself in the wild beauty of the Highlands while treading lightly on the environment.
For those looking to visit the Highlands on guided day tours, or n winter Super Jeep tours are the perfect option. These guided tours use specially modified 4x4 vehicles designed to handle Iceland’s rough terrain, snow, and river crossings. Super Jeep tours are available year-round. They provide a safe and thrilling way to explore the Highlands without the risks of navigating harsh conditions alone.
Self-driving in the Highlands is also possible, but it requires a suitable 4x4 vehicle and experience in driving rugged mountain roads. The highland roads (known as F-roads) are unpaved, involve river crossings, and can be treacherous. These roads are typically open only during the summer months, and self-driving in winter is impossible.
Absolutely – if you’re seeking adventure, dramatic landscapes, and untouched wilderness, the Icelandic Highlands are a must-visit. This region offers some of the most awe-inspiring scenery in the country, from volcanic deserts and steaming geothermal areas to rugged mountain peaks and glacial rivers. It’s a paradise for hikers, photographers, and nature lovers alike.
However, visiting the Highlands isn’t for everyone. The terrain is challenging, and access is limited to summer months unless you join a Super Jeep tour or a guided expedition during winter. If you enjoy hiking and exploring off-the-beaten-path areas, the Highlands provide unforgettable experiences. Iconic spots like Landmannalaugar, Þórsmörk, and Kerlingarfjöll are well worth the effort.
For those who prefer more comfortable travel or are short on time, Iceland’s South Coast, Golden Circle, and coastal areas may offer easier access to stunning nature without the same level of challenge.
If you’re up for adventure and don’t mind rough roads, unpredictable weather, and remote conditions, then the Highlands are an unforgettable part of Iceland’s natural beauty and well worth visiting.
If you want a glimpse of the truly wild side of Iceland, the highlands are definitely worth visiting. Highland tours are often the best way to do it.
For example, trekking tours through the highlands show you the very best bits of the region on foot. You can scale snowy summits, traverse epic ridges and mysterious plains, and bathe in remote hot springs.
Alternatively, if you prefer to travel alone, take the Highland Bus into the heart of the region. The bus leaves Reykjavík daily throughout the summer months.
Explore our highland tours to find the best option for you.
Iceland’s highland area is uninhabited and is largely not habitable. There are no shops, paved roads, petrol stations, or any of the other things we take for granted in our normal lives. It’s known as a wilderness for a reason.
Conditions are particularly challenging in the winter, when heavy snows block most of the highland roads. So, while the highlands can be a thrilling place for a visit, it’s not the easiest place to live!
Iceland’s highlands are one of the most remarkable and thrilling places on the planet. Almost completely uninhabited but home to some of the most breathtaking landscapes you’ll ever see, it’s definitely worth a trip if you visit Iceland in summer.
Given their remote location and Iceland’s volatile weather, most of the highlands are usually only accessible between June and September. Outside of this season, many of the roads in the region are closed, apart from those to major sights such as Landmannalaugar.
Iceland is an incredible destination in any season. While the winter is the season of snow and the northern lights, summer dazzles with the midnight sun and glorious green landscapes.
It’s also the easiest season to get around and explore the highlands. Climb mountain peaks or cross volcanic plains, or unwind in a natural hot spring in Landmannalaugar valley.
There are many beautiful roads in the Icelandic highlands. But most of them are what are known as F-roads—unpaved roads that are not open all year round.
The most famous is F225, or Landmannaleið, which takes you to Landmannalaugar, a valley where you can find natural hot springs. Alternatively, you can drive across the entire highlands on F26, the road known as Sprengisandur.
If you want to visit the Highlands in Iceland, you’ll need to either hire a car, take a private tour, or take the Highland Bus. Most travelers opt for a tour or ride the Highland Bus because the terrain can be more challenging than what they’re used to.
The roads in the Highlands, known as F-roads, are unpaved and often rough. In some cases, you’ll need to ford rivers, which can be tricky and risky if you’re not experienced in off-road driving. For many, the hassle and potential danger of self-driving make guided tours a simpler and safer option.
Additionally, access to much of the Highlands is limited to the summer months. Heavy snowfall during the winter forces many of the roads to close, making large parts of the region unreachable until the snow clears. If you’re visiting in summer and feel confident in your driving skills, self-driving can be a rewarding way to explore. Otherwise, guided tours or the Highland Bus provide stress-free access to these stunning, remote areas.
The Icelandic Highlands are primarily accessible during the summer months, typically from late June to early September. This is when the snow has melted, and the F-roads (mountain roads) are open to vehicles. Outside of this window, heavy snow and unpredictable weather make most of the Highland roads impassable, and they are officially closed to regular traffic.
If you’re planning to visit during the summer, you can explore the Highlands by self-driving with a 4x4 vehicle, taking the Highland Bus, or joining a guided tour. Popular destinations like Landmannalaugar, Þórsmörk, and Kerlingarfjöll are at their most beautiful during this time, offering incredible hiking, camping, and scenic views.
In the winter months, access to the Highlands is extremely limited. However, some areas, such as Landmannalaugar, can still be reached through Super Jeep tours or guided ski tours. These tours use specialized vehicles designed to handle snow-covered terrain and are a great option for those wanting to experience the Highlands’ winter beauty safely.
The easiest road to reach Landmannalaugar is F225 (Landmannaleið). This is one of the most frequently used routes in the Highlands and is the same road taken by the Highland Bus.
Although F225 is well-traveled, it is still an unpaved mountain road that requires a 4x4 vehicle capable of handling rough, off-road conditions. If you plan to hire a car, be sure to inform the rental agency that you intend to drive into the Highlands to ensure you get a suitable vehicle.
For those looking for a hassle-free and environmentally friendly way to visit Landmannalaugar, the Highland Bus is the best and most sustainable option. It offers reliable transport during the summer months, allowing you to experience the beauty of the Highlands without the challenges of self-driving.
The Highlands of Iceland cover the vast, uninhabited interior of the country, stretching across the center of the island. This rugged and remote region lies between glaciers, volcanoes, and mountainous terrain, forming one of Iceland’s most pristine and untouched natural areas.
Access to the Highlands is primarily through F-roads (mountain roads), which are open during the summer months. One of the easiest and most sustainable ways to reach the Highlands is by taking the Highland Bus, which offers scheduled services to popular destinations like Landmannalaugar and Þórsmörk. This allows travelers to experience the raw beauty of the Highlands without the need for a 4x4 vehicle or off-road driving experience.
The highlands in Iceland are largely uninhabited. There are no permanent settlements and there’s no one that lives there all year round.
That said, particularly in the summer months, people do work there. You may find people managing campsites and mountain huts and doing critical maintenance work. But a lack of paved roads, shops, and petrol stations means that it would be a difficult place to live.
In a way, it’s this remoteness that gives the highlands much of their charm. But if you’re visiting, you need to be prepared.
Book your Highland Bus Ticket
Highland Bus - Reykjavík to Þórsmörk
The spectacular Þórsmörk (Thor’s Forest) area offers landscapes ranging from towering mountains to scores of glacial streams and kilometers of black sand. It is a favorite among nature-loving Icelanders and travelers from around the world. Book the Highland Bus for your hiking adventure!
Highland Bus - Reykjavík to Skógar
In the summer, Skógar comes alive, turning into a lush green wonderland under the towering Eyjafjöll mountains. The area is home to one of Iceland’s most famous waterfalls, Skógafoss, a pearl of the south coast. The drive to Skógar is a scenic ride through the picturesque south of Iceland, passing by small farms and charming villages with astounding views of the surrounding mountains and volcanoes on clear days. Whether you are planning a day trip to the region or a multi-day hike, leave the driving to us!
Highland Bus - Reykjavík to Landmannalaugar
The highlands are spectacular. If you’ve seen a picture of multi-coloured mountains in what seems to be a vast, remote wilderness in Iceland, it’s probably from Landmannalaugar. This region of Iceland is a hiker’s paradise, with hiking trails along rhyolite mountains, natural geothermal hot springs and wide-open spaces. If you are planning to hike Landmannalaugar and/or the Laugavegur Trail, leave the driving to us and hop on the highland bus!
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The highlands are spectacular. If you’ve seen a picture of multi-coloured mountains in what seems to be a vast, remote wilderness in Iceland, it’s probably from Landmannalaugar. This region of Iceland is a hiker’s paradise, with hiking trails along rhyolite mountains, natural geothermal hot springs and wide-open spaces. If you are planning to hike Landmannalaugar and/or the Laugavegur Trail, leave the driving to us and hop on the highland bus!
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