Available languages
6 hours 20 minutes
Mobile ticket
30 MINUTES DRIVE from Reykjavik city center
LENGTH: 8 km – 5 miles
ELEVATION GAIN: 290 m – 951 ft
DIFFICULTY: easy/moderate
DURATION: 5hrs
AGE LIMIT: 16+
Embark on an unforgettable day hike to Helgafell. Formed under a massive ice sheet, this flat-topped tuya offers spectacular panoramic views of Reykjavik and the stunning Reykjanes Peninsula, providing the perfect setting for a memorable adventure (elevation: 300m / 980 ft).
Known as the “holy mountain,” Helgafell holds deep cultural significance, steeped in captivating folklore of elves and the “hidden people” who are said to inhabit its rocks.
An exciting part of this adventure is the opportunity to explore lava caves, where you can enter Iceland’s fascinating volcanic underworld. Exploring these mysterious depths is like stepping back in time to a place where the earth itself is still alive and shifting.
With an expert "international mountain leader" guiding you, you’ll gain deep insights into Iceland’s geology and folklore.
Service animals allowed
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
All participants are required to be over 16 years old
Weather can change rapidly, be prepared for all conditions
Meet at the designated starting point 10 minutes before departure
Group sizes are kept small for a personalized experience (up to 15)
Please note that the tour requires a minimum of four participants. If this number isn’t reached, the tour will be cancelled and you will receive a full refund
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Licensed and certified local guides
All Fees and Taxes
International Mountain Leader
Headlamp
Lava caves
Lunch
Bottled water
Hiking shoes
Waterproof jacket and pants
Cap and gloves
Spare t-shirt
Select a pickup point
The meeting point is a known parking lot at the start of a trail. Embark on an unforgettable day hike to Helgafell, an ancient volcanic mountain renowned for its breathtaking beauty and rich history. Formed under a massive ice sheet, this flat-topped tuya offers spectacular panoramic views of Reykjavik and the stunning Reykjanes Peninsula, providing the perfect setting for a memorable adventure. Known as the “holy mountain,” Helgafell holds deep cultural significance, steeped in captivating folklore of elves and the “hidden people” who are said to inhabit its rocks. This mystical atmosphere adds a layer of magic to your hike, offering a glimpse into Icelandic mythology and its ancient connections to nature. As you hike, feel the magic of the landscape unfold, where every rock and ridge holds a story.
Our guided hike takes you off the beaten path, exploring secluded routes that immerse you in the untouched wilderness. Discover hidden corners of Iceland’s rugged landscape, from windswept ridges to serene valleys. Along the way, you’ll encounter Iceland’s diverse wildlife, including birds, flowers, and possibly even a shy Arctic fox. An exciting part of this adventure is the opportunity to explore nearby lava caves, where you can enter Iceland’s fascinating volcanic underworld. These awe-inspiring formations offer a glimpse into the immense power of nature, as you witness firsthand the raw forces that have shaped this incredible land over millennia. The experience of standing within these natural wonders will leave you speechless, with the eerie silence inside the caves enhancing the sense of wonder. Exploring these mysterious depths is like stepping back in time to a place where the earth itself is still alive and shifting.
9-seater 4x4 van
Pickup included
3 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
peterrabbino,
Sep 4, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
WOW!! Other worldly! Roberto was a great guide with lots of information, funny anecdotes and knowledge. He kept us safe and was familiar with the history and landscape. Highly recommend.



dorcass616,
Jun 9, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
It was a very nice tour. Great views, surprisingly different kind of beautiful landscapes. The hike was not too difficult and I would recommend it to others. The lava caves are stunning and you feel that you reconnect with mother earth when you sit under the ground in a lava cave.



rostym2022,
Jun 7, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
It was a really good hike and we have the whole mountain to ourselves! Roberto is very knowledgeable and an experienced hiker. aa The 100 m lava cave was really cool! 😎 I highly recommend this trip and it’s also not very far from Reykjavik.





Operated by Hikers of Iceland