Kerlingafjöll: Iceland’s Secret Geothermal Paradise

Discover Iceland will take you to the magnificent Kerlingafjöll.

Kerlingafjöll is one of Iceland’s most beautiful and underappreciated natural places to visit. This geothermal mountain range located in the central highlands of Iceland. It is famed for its hot springs, colorful rhyolite hills, long hiking trails, and stunning views. Kerlingafjöll is a true wonderland for those who enjoy nature that hasn’t been disturbed and strange geological wonders.

Discover Iceland offers guided excursions that mix adventure, photography, and the stunning landscape of Iceland. These tours will let you discover this amazing place.

Where is Kerlingafjöll?

Kerlingafjöll is in Iceland’s central highlands, between the Hofsjökull and Vatnajökull glaciers. It is in the Áskja volcanic system and is located about:

• 160 kilometers from Reykjavík
• 70 kilometers from Gullfoss
• Near the Kjölur (F35) mountain road

Because it is in the highlands, the area is only open from late June to early September, depending on the weather. Because of the snow in the winter, conventional cars can’t get to the area. That’s why guided super-jeep trips are the safest option.

What Makes Kerlingafjöll So Unique

Kerlingafjöll is well-known for its mix of geothermal energy, rough mountains, and hues that change from red to orange to golden brown. You can’t find an atmosphere like this anyplace else in the globe because of the hot springs and cool mountain air.

Important Things to Know About Kerlingafjöll

• Rhyolite Mountains in bright colors like red, yellow, and orange
• Steaming hot springs that come from deep geothermal activity
• Hveradalir Geothermal Area is one of the most active geothermal areas in Iceland.
• Hiking trails that aren’t crowded and let you explore in quiet
• Peaks blanketed in snow that make for stunning scenery
• One-of-a-kind places to take pictures of nature and adventure

Kerlingafjöll is a protected natural area, which means that its beauty will stay the same for future generations.

Best Things to Do in Kerlingafjöll

1. Check out the Hveradalir Geothermal Area

Kerlingafjöll’s heart is Hveradalir. It is known for having a lot of geothermal activity, and it is full of:

• Mud puddles that are boiling
• Vents that let out steam
• Bright colors of minerals
• Trails for walking that are surrounded by mist

When you go into Hveradalir, it feels like you’re in a different universe. The rising steam and bright hues make it one of Iceland’s best places to take pictures.

2. Hiking the Kerlingafjöll Trails

Some of the most beautiful hiking trails in Iceland are at Kerlingafjöll. You have the option of:

• Short hikes near the geothermal areas
• Medium-level hikes across valleys in the mountains
• Long-distance paths that link Kerlingafjöll to the Kjölur route

The fresh air, quiet, and beautiful wildlife all around make trekking here a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

3. Take pictures of and enjoy the view of the mountains.

Photographers enjoy Kerlingafjöll because its vistas look like they are from another world. The colorful hills seem magnificent in the early morning and late afternoon sun.

4. Go to the Ásgarður Mountain Resort. This mountain resort has places to stay, warm meals, and pleasant places to rest if you plan to remain for a while.

How to Get to Kerlingafjöll

The distant Icelandic highlands are where Kerlingafjöll is. You have to cross dirt roads and occasionally rivers to get there. For safety and ease, a lot of people prefer a guided tour.

The Best Ways to Get to Kerlingafjöll

• Super Jeep Tours in Reykjavík
• Renting a 4×4 car (only for experienced drivers)
• Discover Iceland offers guided day trips in the highlands.

Our skilled guides at Discover Iceland make sure your trip is safe and comfortable, even on tough highland roads.

The Best Time to Go to Kerlingafjöll

June to September is the best time to go. In this short summer window:

• Roads are still open
• The weather is nice.
• Trails for hiking are safe
• You can get to all of the geothermal locations.

The area is closed in the winter because of deep snow and bad weather.

Kerlingafjöll Travel Tips for Visitors

What to pack:

• Clothes that are warm and layered
• Jacket and boots that keep water out
• Hat and gloves
• Lots of water
• Drone or camera
• Lunch or snacks

What to Expect

• The temperature changes during the day
• Strong winds in the mountains
• Few services in the highlands
• There are no gas stations nearby.

Kerlingafjöll is a secluded, beautiful place, thus it’s vital to be ready.

Why You Should Go to Kerlingafjöll with Discover Iceland

Discover Iceland is an expert in tours of the highlands and adventures. You get with us:

• Super-jeeps that are comfortable
• Drivers with a lot of experience in the area
• Safe navigating in the highlands
• Tour selections that are flexible
• A guide that is friendly and knows a lot

We want to make your trip to Kerlingafjöll a mix of adventure, comfort, and a real Icelandic experience.

Last Thoughts

Kerlingafjöll isn’t merely a place to go. It is a strong, unadulterated natural wonder that makes a lasting effect on every traveler. The hot springs, beautiful mountains, and quiet seclusion make for an experience you’ll never forget. Kerlingafjöll should be on your list of places to visit in Iceland, whether you enjoy nature, photography, or adventure.

Plan your next trip to the highlands with Discover Iceland and see one of the most amazing landscapes in Iceland.

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