Iceland’s volcanoes, waterfalls, and glaciers are undoubtedly famous worldwide, drawing in tourists from every corner of the globe. However, many travelers stick to the popular Ring Road and miss out on Iceland’s best-kept secret—the remote, breathtaking landscapes of the Icelandic Highlands.

These highlands offer dramatic scenery and far fewer tourists, making them an absolute dream for anyone with a sense of adventure. All you need is a 4WD, a tent (or a pre-booked cabin if you’re a planner), and a deep appreciation for the beauty of the great outdoors. After spending over a week exploring this stunning country, I can confidently say that the highlands were the most impressive part of the trip!

🌄 Essential Tips Before You Go

• 4WD is a Must: The roads to the highlands are unpaved and often require crossing rivers, so a 4WD vehicle is absolutely essential. Regular rental cars can’t tackle these routes, and even if they could, you definitely don’t want to risk getting stuck in the wilderness!

• F-Roads Ahead: Most routes leading into the highlands are F-roads—gravel, unpaved tracks. Expect bumpy, slow rides, but trust me, the journey is well worth it, especially when you reach those jaw-dropping landscapes.

• Accommodation: You’ll find several campsites in the highlands offering both camping and hut accommodations. Be sure to check reservation policies for each spot, as some campsites require advance bookings, while others don’t. Also, keep in mind that showers are typically not included, so expect to pay extra for them. If you prefer a hut over camping, be aware that hut spaces often book up months in advance—so plan ahead, especially if you're traveling during peak season.

  • Useful Links:

    • Mountain Huts Terms and Conditions

    • Highland Campsites

• Payments: Iceland is a cashless paradise—credit cards are accepted almost everywhere, even in paid toilets! We didn’t need to withdraw cash once (honestly, I couldn’t even tell you what Icelandic banknotes look like!). However, it’s worth noting that payments in the mountain huts depend on internet connectivity, which can be spotty in the highlands. It’s a good idea to carry some cash just in case.

• Getting There: To reach Kerlingarfjöll and Hveradalir, you’ll typically use Route 35 (Kjalvegur). Bonus: In the summer, this route offers stunning views of fields of lupine flowers—so beautiful, you’ll want to stop and take it all in!