In the Shadow of Vatnajökull

We meet at the domestic airport in Egilsstaðir. There those who came the land way meet those who came by air from Reykjavík (depart from Reykjavík domestic airport at 7:30). After getting acquainted we transfer into the Eyjabakkar area located east of Mt. Snæfell which is where we start our hike. We begin our first day following Eyjabakkar and the impressive river banks of the glacier river Jökulsá. Mt. Snæfell poses majestically on the other side of the river, occasionally with a bright blanket of snow capping its peaks. We then turn east towards Geldingafell mountain at the edge of the great Vatnajökull glacier and the lush vegetation of the riverbanks gives way to the rough areas shaped by the receding glacier where the reindeer roam freely. Accommodation in a fully equipped hut provided.
Distance: 15 km (9.5 mi)
Walking time: 6 - 8 hrs
Ascent: 150 m (490 ft)

Today we hike over the mountain of Geldingafell for excellent views over the Vatnajökull glacier as well as the outlet glaciers of the area and adjacent glacier lagoons. We follow the top of the valley of Vesturdalur before descending down to lake Kollumúlavatn where pintails can often be heard and even seen. Accommodation in a fully equipped hut, Egilssel, on the lake.
Distance: 15 km (9.5 mi)
Walking time: 6 - 8 hrs
Ascent/Descent: 300 m (980 ft) / 500 m (1640 ft)

Circling the lake we come to the Tröllakrókahnaus, an interesting outcrop of columnar basalt, located on the impressive Tröllakrókar cliffs. Making our way along the cliffs’ edges we enjoy the stunning views of the rock formations as well as the views to the surrounding mountains. The monotony of the basaltic landscapes soon gives way to the colorful landscapes of the rhyolite where the purple, orange and even pink colors come as a real surprise. We continue down into the valley of the glacial river Jökulsá í Lóni arriving at our hut for the night.
Distance: 12 km (7.5 mi)
Walking time: 5 - 7 hrs
Ascent/Descent: 200 m (650 ft) / 450 m (1450 ft)

We start by crossing the glacial river on a footbridge before climbing the hill of Illikambur. We should enjoy the colors of the surrounding slopes on our way up as on top yet another landscape awaits us. Following the glacial river Jökulsá í Lóni we make our way south to the old farmstead of Eskifell. Just after we cross the mighty glacial river on a footbridge, a bus awaits us to bring us to Höfn. From Höfn we go directly to the domestic airport for the flight back to Reykjavik at 18:45. Arrival at Reykjavik airport is at 19:45.
Distance: 11 km (7.0 mi)
Walking time: 6 - 8 hrs
Ascent/Descent: 250 m (820 ft) / 300 m (980 ft)

Please note

• The flight from Reykjavik to Egilsstaðir and from Höfn to Reykjavik is not included but can be added.