hornstrandir hiking tours

• How to visit Hornstrandir: Full Hiking Guide 2024

Hornstrandir is one of the last places on earth where you can still safely hike in untouched nature and enjoy full remoteness without the internet, cell phone, and any other fellow tourists.

We decided to write this guide on how to visit the Hornstrandir Nature Reserve because hiking in Hornstrandir is neither easy nor well accessible. To explore this northernmost corner of Iceland, you need to plan everything well in advance and pray for good weather.

For those willing to put up all the effort to conquer Hornstrandir, the reward is huge, though! This secluded peninsula offers endless hiking opportunities, many picturesque fjords, arctic foxes playing with your tent, and lots of moments to clear your mind and contemplate your life.

In this guide, we compile all the information we have about Hornstrandir from locals , our friends, and visitors who have hiked here recently, as well as numerous hard-to-find Icelandic online sources.

Hornstrandir Map

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Our interactive Hornstrandir map displays all the campsites in Hornstrandir, ferry stops, 26 hiking trails, accommodations, all emergency shelters, and many interesting places to see:

Beware!!! Use only main hiking trails if you don’t have enough previous experience with Hornstrandir! The secondary trails may be very dangerous . Several visitors have almost died there. They should be taken only with a local guide or if you are highly experienced in the area!

How to visit Hornstrandir

The only way to reach Hornstrandir is by using a ferry from Ísafjörður or Bolungarvik or by hiking for multiple days from the mainland in Westfjords. There are no roads in Hornstrandir. Once there, your only way of transportation is hiking.

It’s important to say that visiting Hornstrandir is not easy . If you are looking for a laid-back trip without much effort, stay away from this part of Iceland. Just getting to Hornstrandir requires careful planning, and if you want to hike it, you have to prepare even more thoroughly.

Hornstrandir is also no place for those with a fear of heights or mobility issues. This is a hiking-only region and the hiking is not the easiest, although not the most hardcore one as well.

There are currently three ferry companies running boat transfers to Hornstrandir from Westfjords :

• Sjóferðir – departs from Ísafjörður
• Borea Adventures – departs from Ísafjörður
• Hornstrandir Tours – departs from Bolungarvík

They typically operate the boats from early June until early September. See all the current Hornstrandir ferry schedules here:

• Sjoferdir 2024 Hornstrandir ferry schedule
• Borea Adventures 2024 Hornstrandir ferry schedule , 5% discount code: EPICICELAND
• Hornstrandir Tours 2024 Hornstrandir ferry schedule

Hornstrandir ferry schedule for 2024 from Ísafjörður – a boat run by Borea Adventures

Borea Adventures ferry stops at six different stops – Aðalvík, Grunnavík, Hesteyri, Hornvik , and Veidileysufjörður .

The ferry by Sjóferðir also stops at Fljótavík and Hrafnfjörður upon request.

The Hornstrandir Tours ferry leaving from Bolungarvík stops at all stops above and also at Slétta, Hlöðuvík, Lónafjörður, and Flæðareyri .

You have to book the ferry in advance. The boat may be either full or may not depart at all if there are not enough passengers.

Multi-day Hornstrandir guided tour by Borea Adventures

The easiest and safest way to visit Hornstrandir is to attend a guided tour . All the planning is handled by a guide. The main downside of a guided tour is that you will not see as much as you possibly can when hiking alone. Additionally, you won’t be alone, which means a part of Hornstrandir’s magic will be gone .

There are two main tour companies operating guided trips to Hornstradir – Borea Adventures and West Tours . Both companies are running their tours from Ísafjörður in Westfjords. Apart from tours, Borea also runs a ferry, as mentioned above.

5% discount code on all Hornstrandir Tours and Ferries by Borea Adventures : EPICICELAND

Both tour providers offer day hikes as well as multi-day treks across Hornstrandir, all with experienced local guides.

All tours have to be booked in advance and can be canceled due to unfavorable weather with a refund or a new proposed date.

When to visit Hornstrandir

When to visit Hornstrandir? Only in summer. Even then, snowfields can be present. Photo by Rob Oo , CC BY 2.0

In short, you can visit Hornstrandir only in summer and only when the weather is favorable . This means no strong wind, no heavy rain, and definitely no weather alerts .

Planning is crucial when it comes to visiting Hornstrandir. The same applies to weather. I know it’s hard, but it’s essential to plan your trip to happen over a nice weather period . Otherwise, it may just turn into suffering rather than joy.

Discount codes on Icelandic Guided tours and Car rentals.

You can visit Hornstrandir from early June until early September when the ferries are running. The main season also coincides with the time when Hornstrandir is partially or mostly snow-free. This is also when the weather is the mildest, with the lowest number of storms and weather alerts.

Hiking trails in Hornstrandir are typically best accessible between mid-July and the end of August when there’s only a little snow and temperatures reach their peaks.

Hornstrandir has by far the highest chances of spotting arctic foxes in Iceland!

Weather in Hornstrandir can be your biggest friend and also the biggest enemy. Simply said, it’s extreme . On a bad day, wind can reach hurricane-force strength and on a nice day, you can even sunbathe easily. That’s Hornstrandir, be ready for it!

In an ideal case, you should wait for a week or two of a stable and mild weather forecast . This is a good time to visit Hornstrandir. In reality, however, this is easier said than done. How are you supposed to know what the weather will be like at the time of your visit? Well, you can’t know. This basically leaves you with two options:

• Plan for fixed dates. In this case, be ready to cancel everything when the weather gets really bad. Or be ready to experience fog, rain, and wind throughout your entire trip. This can easily happen.
• Be flexible. Very flexible. Be ready to reschedule, postpone, shorten your trip, or whatever is needed to avoid harsh weather and maximize the time spent under favorable weather.

Always check the weather only on the official Icelandic meteorological office website . This is the most precise forecast. The longer it forecasts, the less precise it is, but it’s still the best one available.

25 hidden gems in Iceland nobody writes about.

Most Beautiful Spots in Hornstrandir

Below is the list of seven spots many consider to be the most beautiful places in Hornstrandir.

Skálarkambur pass offers one-of-its-kind views over Hloðuvík fjord. Picture by Reinhold Seiz.

Skálarkambur Pass is one of the most beautiful places in Hornstrandir, offering breathtaking views of Hloðuvík fjord. You will reach it on the hiking trail between Hornvík and Hlöðuvík .

Views from the top of Hafnarskarð mountain pass are one of Hornstrandir’s highlights. Picture by Reinhold Seiz .

Hafnarskarð pass is another spot where you will be rewarded with picturesque views of the gorgeous fjords of Hornstrandir. Hafnarskarð overlooks both the Hornvík fjord and Veiðileysufjörður fjord. You will find this viewpoint on the Veiðileysufjörður-Hornvík hiking trail .

Hornbjarg Horn cliffs are by many considered the most beautiful spot in Hornstrandir. Photo by Evgeniy Metyolkin, CC BY-SA 3.0

The cliffs of Horn and Hornbjarg are undoubtedly the most iconic place in Hornstrandir. The sharp and steep cliffs full of birds entice thousands of photographers a year.

The scenery around Hornbjargsvíti Lighthouse is one of the most beautiful places in Hornstrandir

The views from above the Hornbjargsvíti lighthouse are simply incredible on a nice day. The vibrant colors of the lighthouse create a unique photography contrast against the backdrop of a green, rocky coast.

Hælavíkurbjarg bird cliffs at Kirfi in Hvannadalur are one of the most scenic spots of Hornstrandir, still unconquered by crowds. Picture by Náttúrustofa Norðausturlands . 

Hælavíkurbjarg cliffs in Hvannadalur, sometimes also called Kirfi cliffs, are one of Hornstrandir’s hidden gems . You can reach them the easiest on a hike to Kirfi from Rekavík. It’s not a hike for the faint of heart, though.

One of the top views you can experience in Hornstrandir is a view over Lake’s Fljótsvatn floodplain. Picture by Reinhold Seiz.

Fljótsvatn Lake is the biggest and most beautiful lake in Hornstrandir. You will find the best views over Fljótsvatn on a hike between Hlöðuvík and Fljótavík or on the Fljótavík-Látrar hiking trail .

Bird’s eye view over Aðalvík fjord on one of the nearby hikes is one of Hornstrandir’s highlights. Picture by Reinhold Seiz.

You can experience wonderful views over Aðalvík fjord on either the Fljótavík-Látrar hiking trail  or on the hike between Látrar and Hesteyri .

The only available accommodation in Hornstrandir is 14 campsites and three very simple guest houses with sleeping bag accommodation. Expect all three guesthouses to be fully booked in advance for the majority of summer:

• Læknishúsið (“Doctor’s House”) – book Læknishúsið accommodation here
• Hornbjargsvíti lighthouse – book Hornbjargsvíti lighthouse accommodation here
• Kvíar Lodge – book tours and accommodation in Kvíar Lodge here

Best Places in the Highlands of Iceland.

Remember, Hornstrandir is NOT a typical touristy destination . There is no comfortable lodging, and there are no normal services you are used to in a developed world. There’s wilderness and that’s it.

“No problem, I’m used to camping!” Well, are you? Have you camped in Hornstrandir? A friend of mine lost her top-class, well-pitched tent in Hornstrandir in August due to massive hurricane-force winds. She was lucky to be accommodated by one of the three guesthouses at the time. Is it always like this? No, it is not. But it can be. And you need to be ready for that!

Hornvík campsite, the biggest camping in Hornstrandir. Picture by Reinhold Seiz.

A note of caution! You may encounter a house from time to time. All houses in Hornstrandir are private properties! Don’t invade the privacy of the owners. These may be their holiday houses or a family heritage.

There are 14 different campsites in Hornstrandir. Six of them also offer an emergency shelter. Here is the list of all Hornstrandir campsites :

• Hornvík Höfn campsite (+emergency shelter)
• Hesteyri campsite
• Hornbjargsvíti campsite
• Látrar campsite (+emergency shelter)
• Sæból campsite
• Atlastaðir Fljotavik campsite (+emergency shelter)
• Smiðjuvík campsite
• Bjarnanes campsite
• Hrafnfjörður campsite (+emergency shelter)
• Glúmsstaðir Fljótavatn campsite
• Veiðileysufjörður campsite
• Við Hlöðuvíkurós campsite (+emergency shelter)
• Horn or Hornsá campsite
• Lónhorn campsite
• Furufjörður campsite (+emergency shelter)

Emergency shelter in Hornvík campsite. Picture by Reinhold Seiz.

Most campsites are equipped with running water and dry toilets . Travelers must camp at campsites if there is one on the ground or in its immediate vicinity.

The biggest campsite is in Hornvík in Höfn. It’s large and well set up.  There is a ranger’s cabin, flush toilets, running water, and sinks in the Hornvík campsite.

There are no supermarkets or restaurants in Hornstrandir . You have to bring all the food by yourself or arrange for a food delivery. The basic food delivery can be ordered with any of the ferry companies, just discuss it with them in advance.

In summer, the three guesthouses typically offer snacks, hot beverages, canned drinks, and even soups or hot meals. This heavily depends on availability and their inventory at the time, though, so don’t rely on it!

It’s best you bring a calorie-heavy, lightweight food to Hornstrandir. The longer you stay, the calorie-heavier and more lightweight it should be. Nuts, biscuits, chocolate, and dried meat are some examples of such meals.

Steep drops on unstable terrain are one of the main Hornstrandir hiking challenges, especially with a heavy backpack. Picture by Reinhold Seiz.

What to Pack for Hornstrandir

The equipment you need to hike in Hornstrandir highly depends on how many days you plan to spend here . Is it just a day trip? Or do you intend to do a 2-week-long expedition? This makes a night and a day difference.

Remember you have to buy everything in mainland Iceland or/and in Isafjordur . There are no shops in Hornstrandir! You may be able to buy some essentials in Læknishúsið in Hesteyri or in Hornvík or Hornbjargsvíti, but don’t rely on that. It’s subject to availability.

Recommended Hornstrandir hiking gear:

• Backpack , fully waterproof, with a rain cover
• Hiking poles
• Map, GPS, compass , and a satellite device or Garmin InReach in case of emergency
• Sleeping bag , high-quality, light, warm
• Tent , high-quality, light, water and windproof
• Mattress , light, small, inflatable
• Cooking equipment, stove, gas, pot, matches, dish, cup
• Thermos, water bottle, pocket knife
• Sun protection
• Painkillers and emergency medication
• Band-aid and elastic bandages
• Food, light, dry, long-lasting, and high calories, e.g. biscuits, chocolate, dried meat, fruits
• Hot drinks, tea, coffee, cocoa
• Reserve batteries and/or power banks
• Towel , shampoo, toilet paper
• Headlight, lighter

What to pack for Hornstrandir multi-day trek (click to enlarge). Picture by Reinhold Seiz.

Recommended clothes:

• Hiking shoes , waterproof and sturdy
• Wading shoes , to ford rivers, or neoprene socks
• Jacket , waterproof
• Sweater , wool, or thermal
• Trousers, thermal
• Trousers, waterproof
• Hat , windproof
• Wool is the material you want to wear as much as possible to stay dry and warm

Pay special attention to your hiking shoes and the water and wind durability of your clothes . Gore Tex is highly recommended if you are looking for clothes that are really waterproof.

Hornstrandir is wet in many places , rocky, and hiking through wet grass makes most of the shoes leak. Bring shoes that have high ankle support, that are new, and wax leather shoes with fat before your trip. Don’t wear trail shoes.

Here’s an example 2-week trek Hornstrandir packing list , including item weights. Thanks to Reinhold Seiz for providing this:

If you are visiting Hornstrandir as a day trip only , you can skip the following items from the list above:

• Sleeping bag, Tent, Mattress, Cooking equipment, Knife, Medication, Hot drinks, Batteries, Towel, Headlight

If you are visiting Hornstrandir as a part of the guided tour , apart from the items above, you can also skip:

• Map, GPS, compass, satellite device (a guide has these)
• A guide will also inform you about your planned route and clothes requirements as well as any other requirements. Chances are, you won’t be fording rivers, and if yes, you will be informed about it

Official Hornstrandir hiking map (click to enlarge). Only the main hiking trails are displayed here. Source: www.ust.is

• Always check the Icelandic Safe Travel website and the local weather forecast before going.
• Submit your travel plan here  before visiting and also provide it to all ferry companies you will be using.
• Consult your plan with an information center in Hornvik or Hesteyri, with a ranger if he/she is present at your point of arrival, and possibly also with a ferry company.
• Practice at home! Practice a multi-day hike in rain, wind, with a heavy backpack (20kg / 44lbs), wet shoes, etc. Practice pitching a tent in these conditions.
• Trails can often get swampy and boggy. Get ready for that with your gear.
• Sometimes, especially over the mountain passes, you can get a limited cell and internet signal. Use it to get the most recent weather info.
• Print the most recent weather forecast at Isafjordur and update it with a pen/pencil every time you receive any internet signal when hiking, and take screenshots of the forecast.
• If there’s a visible path, your best chances are to follow it. If there’s no visible path, use cairns, GPS, compass, and maps.
• Check tidal times . You may need to cross tricky parts through beaches.
• Let the boat company you booked a ferry with know of any changes to your plans! The best is to send them an SMS because it may get through even if you think you don’t have any cell coverage.
• The ferry will not be waiting for you. Better wait for a ferry yourself with enough time in advance.
• Take only the main hiking trails displayed above if you don’t have enough previous experience with Hornstrandir! Some of the secondary hiking trails displayed below may be deadly dangerous!

Hornstrandir Hiking Trails

Map of all Hornstrandir hiking trails (click to enlarge). Beware, some may not be passable or only very hard! Source: https://vefsja.iskort.is/

We describe below the fourteen main Hornstrandir hiking trails and twelve secondary trails. The secondary trails are usually less visited, often unmarked and can be very difficult , not always, though.

Bear in mind that the map of each trail may not be exactly precise, and the correct and easiest hiking trail may vary year by year and day by day. Especially the river and water crossing spots change based on the tide and conditions at the time.

The hiking trails in Hornstrandir range from almost invisible and unmarked to partially visible with sticks in the ground or boot prints to very clear when marked with stone cairns.

There can often be snowfields on trails , especially early in the season. If you are unsure of where to go, your best guess is to follow the shoe steps made by others.

View over Veiðileysufjörður on a hiking trail to Hornvík in Hornstrandir. Picture by Reinhold Seiz.

The hiking trail from Veiðileysufjörður to Hornvík via Hafnarskarð pass is the trail multi-day hikers often choose as their starting route. It’s a good warm-up trek, not too long, not too short, giving you a glimpse of what you can expect in Hornstrandir.

The highlight of the trails is definitely the spectacular view from the top of Hafnarskarð pass into both Veiðileysufjörður in the back and Hornvik in the front.

The trail near Veiðileysufjörður is often very swampy and wet, but it becomes drier the higher you go up. The route is clear and easy to follow, thanks to the big cairns that mark the way.

The most difficult spot of the trail is the Hafnarskarð pass. It’s steep and may be covered with snow all year round. Be prepared for steep snow slopes in this area, the bigger the earlier in the season you come.

There are typically no big rivers to cross, just small streams, and you shouldn’t even take your shoes off under standard, not-too-wet conditions.

Hornvík – Horn hiking trail in Hornstrandir, photo by Rob Oo , CC BY 2.0

The hiking trail from Hornvík in Höfn, leading to the famous Horn and Hornbjarg cliffs, is by far the single most popular trail in Hornstrandir. What makes it so much sought-after is that the cliffs are strikingly beautiful, and the path is relatively safe to visit. Secondly, the biggest campsite in Hornstrandir, Hornvík in Höfn, is close by.

Roughly one mile east of Hornvik, you have to cross the Hafnarós river. The river is, on average, knee-deep, and the official river crossing spot is higher up the river, marked by two yellow markers. However, sometimes it makes sense to search for even shallower spots.

You can often find the shallowest spot near the shore, where the river meets the sea, especially during low tide. If you want to minimize the part of your body underwater, take note of tidal times beforehand. Beware, though, here the riverbed may be more sandy.

A river crossing at sea level during low tide near Hornvík on the way to Horn and Hornbjarg. Picture by Reinhold Seiz.

The main highlight of this trek is the otherworldly view that you will get in the Horn and Hornbjarg area, where cliffs as high as 500 meters meet the sea. This is also where puffins and various birds often nest!

From Horn, you can walk in a loop along the cliffs and reach the mountain Miðfell. Please beware that the trail to Miðfell is steep and can be difficult to walk, especially in wet conditions.

The most difficult section of the trail besides the river crossing is the sheer drops right next to the trails. Take special care in the strong wind!

A sketchy spot over Tröllakambur cliffs on a Hornvík – Hlöðuvík hiking trail in Hornstrandir. Picture by Reinhold Seiz.

This trail connects two fjords – Hornvík and Hlöðuvík. Starting at Hornvík, the first part of the trail is a bit sketchy and leads along the edge of Tröllakambur cliffs. You have to watch your steps on the smooth stones, and there’s also a rope to help you pass.

After that, you will get to the bay of Rekavík Bak Höfn. At this junction, you can either continue to Hlöðuvík via Atlaskarð pass or do a detour to Kirfi cliffs in Hvannadalur. We describe the fascinating Kirfi/Hvannadalur trail below, under secondary trails.

The most gorgeous spot of the Hornvík – Hlöðuvík trail is the view from Skálarkambur pass all the way to Hlöðuvík. To reach Skálarkambur, though, you first have to hike up the Atlaskarð pass.

The hiking path to the Atlaskarð pass is well-marked with cairns. From Skálarkambur, you will take a very steep descent down to Hlöðuvík. This section of the trek can be quite dangerous earlier in the season when there’s still a lot of snow.

Steep rockslides and boulders on the Þorleifsskarð pass on a hiking trail from Hlöðuvík to Fljótsvatn. Picture by Reinhold Seiz.

The hiking trail from Hlöðuvík to Fljótsvatn is versatile but also demanding. The highlight of this trail is the view from the Þorleifsskarð pass down into the floodplain at Fljótavatn lake.

Some sections of the trail are marked with wooden sticks, however, you can easily lose your way in a fog. In that case, this will be a difficult and slow hike.

Fog is not the only threat of this trek. There are several sections with steep rockslides and boulders around Almenningar and Þorleifsskarð. Hiking poles will be priceless. And pray for no strong winds!

Apart from the steep parts and some unforgettable views, you will also encounter a seemingly endless stone desert.

Beginning of the Fljótsvatn – Látrar trail. Picture by Reinhold Seiz.

The considerable part of the hiking trail from Fljótsvatn campsite to Látrar in Aðalvík leads through the swampy floodplains of Fljótsvatn lake. How wet you get varies strongly based on the current conditions around the lake.

Except for the swamps and pesky flies, this part of the trails is rather easy to walk. Later in the season, you may also be lucky to find a lot of blueberries in this area.

The prettiest part of the Fljótsvatn – Látrar hiking trail is most likely the magnificent view of Látravík after overcoming the Tunguheiði mountain pass southwest of Fljótavatn. This section is marked with cairns, and the initial hike up from Tungudalur is pretty steep.

Steep Tunguheiði mountain pass on a Fljótavík – Látrar hiking trail in Hornstrandir. Picture by Reinhold Seiz.

The first real challenge of this trail is the Fljótsvatn Lake crossing next to Fljótavík. The water can be as high as your upper hips. The fording spot by the lake is marked opposite to Langanes.

Then there’s a steep ascent from Tungudalur all the way to Tunguheiði pass. After the pass, you can either continue southwest to Látrar in Aðalvík or choose one of the two detours – Rekavík and/or the Straumnes US Navy base.

By further following the main trail, you will then reach Látrar campsite by hiking alongside the mountain Látrafjall.

View over Látravík from the Stakkadalur pass on a hiking trail to Hesteyri. Picture by Reinhold Seiz.

The trek from Látrar to Hesteyri (or the other way round) is one of the easiest main hiking trails you can take in Hornstrandir. With Hesteyri being one of the main hubs of civilization in Hornstrandir, it’s also a well-trodden path.

While this trail is probably not as breathtaking as the others, the most beautiful section is a wonderful view down to Látravik once you climb up Stakkadalur. You will also meet a nice waterfall along the way.

When climbing up from Stakkadalur, you have to cross the river Stakkadalsós with a sandy bottom. This may be the most difficult spot of this hike. The section between Stakkadalur and Hesteyrarskarð mountain pass is marked with distant cairns. The final part of the trail between Hesteyrarskarð and Hesteyri is an old but well-visible road.

On a start to hiking trail from Hesteyri to Sæból in Hornstrandir. Picture by Reinhold Seiz.

The hike from Hesteyri to Sæból again belongs to the easier ones when it comes to hiking trails in Hornstrandir. From Sæból, you can take two side hikes – one to a British Military Base in Darri and one to Rytur mountain.

On your way from Hesteyrarfjörður, you will first overcome the mountain Nóngilsfjall and head towards Sléttuheiði. This part of the trail is well visible and marked with cairns.  Then you have to cross the river Sléttuá.

The following part of the hike to Staður church is barely marked with a hard-to-see trail. However, the navigation is not too bad because you just have to keep right of the lake. This is also where the trail often gets wet.

During this trek, you may also make a detour to Slétta, which will extend your hiking time by about 1 to 2 hours. The most difficult part of the hike is the descent to Staður church, or the climb from the church, if you hike the other way round. It’s not any critical, though.

Doctor’s House, or Læknishúsið, in Hesteyri. Picture by Reinhold Seiz .

The hiking trail from Hesteyri to Hlöðuvík is more difficult, yet pretty popular because it’s one of the two shortest trails connecting southern and northern Hornstrandir.

The most difficult sections of the trail include hiking up and down the steep snowfields with an invisible path underneath. The sooner in season you go, the bigger and more dangerous the snowdrifts.

Nevertheless, the trail is marked well with plenty of stone cairns. Just sometimes, the path simply disappears, because of stony terrain or snow where footprints often can’t be seen.

Coming from Hesteyri, the first main challenge is the Kjaransvíkurskarð mountain pass. This is the place where snowdrifts occur often. However, it’s also most likely the prettiest spot of the trail, with a picturesque view back over Hesteyri fjord.

The rest of the trail is rather boring, though, with lots of rocks, cairns, and bogs. Despite cairns, it may be hard to find a trail due to difficult navigation on stones and occasional snowfields. On snowdrifts, your best guess should be the footprints of others, if there are any.

The final challenge of the hike is a crossing of river Kjaransvíkurá, which is most of the time best crossed at the shore.

Horn – Hornbjargsvíti trail map

Getting to Hornbjargsvíti is not easy nor comfortable, regardless of the trail you choose. But it’s well worth the effort! Your first alternative is the Horn – Hornbjargsvíti trek along the eastern shore.

The trail from Horn to Hornbjargsvíti is versatile but quite sketchy, especially around the Múli area, if you plan to continue along the eastern shore all the way to Hornbjargsvíti.

The hardest spot is said to be the climb up to Múli and back down to the shore. It’s particularly challenging with a huge backpack. The trails in this area are also not well visible and can be quite a daunting task to follow if it’s too foggy.

On a positive note, though, once at Hornbjargsvíti, you will be rewarded with one of its kind views and a surreal, remote atmosphere. Hornbjargsvíti lighthouse, with its surroundings, is one of the most scenic places in Hornstrandir.

A scenic view from over the Hornbjargsvíti Lighthouse in Hornstrandir, the destination of this trek.

The second way to reach Hornbjargsvíti leads south through the Kýrskarð pass. Although seemingly short, the trail is no easier than the second hiking trail. If you get lost, it may take you an entire day to pass.

There are rocky sections where you may even need to climb a bit. Then, there may be steep snow patches where both navigating and not falling would pose a challenge.

Moreover, the track is not that well-trodden and, at times, barely visible. You won’t welcome this in a fog. The only thing helping you not get lost are the wooden sticks along the trail. GPS should help you a lot on this trek.

And if it all wasn’t enough, the trek is not super eventful either and the path can become pretty muddy. Finally, you have to cross the river at the beginning, right next to Hornvík. And this needs to be examined for the best crossing spot, see the Hornvík – Horn – Hornvík loop trail above.

Views from the Hornbjargsvíti – Bjarnanes – Smiðjuvík hiking trail. Source: www.ust.is

This is a longer hike that can be divided into more days if necessary and ends up in Smiðjuvík. The first part of the hiking trail leads through the Innstidalur valley. Then, the section towards Hornbjargsvíti follows. Next, you have to overcome the Axarfjall mountain pass.

The highlight of this trail is the most beautiful and probably also the biggest waterfall in Hornstrandir, called Drifandisfoss. The waterfall is located halfway between Bjarnanes and Smiðjuvík and protrudes from majestic cliffs.

Smidjuvík – Furufjörður Hornstrandir hiking trail. Source: www.ust.is

The hiking trail from Smidjuvík to Furufjörður is long and remote. Privacy and no crowds guaranteed. Unfortunately, also almost no marks as well.

From time to time, you will find wooden sticks of various colors but don’t rely on this hike to be marked. Often, you just have to follow your GPS, and there’s no other option.

Your first checkpoint will be the fjord of Barðsvík on your east, and from there, you have to climb over the Göngumannaskörð mountain pass. To reach your next stop, Bolungarvík, you first have to cross the river Bolungarvíkurófæra. Watch out for a low tide time, though! Otherwise, you most likely won’t pass this river.

Finally, an almost never-ending, 7km long stretch of unmarked coastal hiking past tons of stones and driftwood will bring you to Furufjörður.

Furufjörður – Hrafnfjörður hiking trail. Source: www.ust.is

The hiking trail between Furufjörður and Hrafnfjörður is not long, but it’s very isolated. Hikers often extend this trek with other stops or detours, like Svartaskarð to Þarlátursfjörður or the direction of Reykjafjörður, Ófeigsfjörður and Ingólfsfjörður.

One of the main challenges of this hike is the almost non-existent track east of Skorarvatn Lake. Your only chance there is to follow the cairns. GPS often doesn’t help either.

Coming from the east, after passing the lake, the trail improves and eventually turns into a mountain road between Skorarheiði and Hrafnfjörður.

Secondary Hiking Trails

A beach hike with a steep cliff climb on a direct hiking trail between Látrar and Sæból. Source: https://is.nat.is/

You will not find the trail from Látrar to Sæból on the main hiking maps of Hornstrandir. However, this trail exists and hikers do take it every now and then.

This is mostly a coastal trail leading along the beaches of Aðalvík fjord. On a nice day it resembles a summer vacation, just a lot colder one.

The main obstacle and by far the hardest spot of this trail is a 100m high climb up the cliffs with the help of chains. This section is definitely not for the faint-hearted and it’s difficult to carry the bag on your back. After that, it’s easy to get to the campsite of Sæból.

From Veiðileysufjörður, you can take a short hike up to Tafla mountain. On a nice day, you will be rewarded with a spectacular view over Veiðileysufjörður fjord.

Hælavíkurbjarg bird cliffs at Kirfi in Hvannadalur, Hornstrandir, Iceland. Picture by Náttúrustofa Norðausturlands.

The hike to Kirfi Hill, also called the Hvannadalur hike, is a popular detour locals often take on their way from Hornvík towards Hlöðuvík.

Since this is an out-and-back hike, it’s best to leave your big backpack on a wooden platform around Rekavík bak Höfn, where the hike starts.

The most difficult spot of the hiking trail is a very narrow section leading on the side of the cliff with pretty scary drops all the way to the ocean below. The beginning of the trail can also be swampy at times, so be prepared for that.

The highlight of the trail is a scenic view of Hælavíkurbjarg cliffs, considered by many to be one of the best views in Hornstrandir. These are huge, vertical cliffs you won’t see anywhere else.

Straumnes or Straumnesfjall US military base in Hornstrandir. Picture by www.ust.is .

Straumnesfjall US military base is a popular day trip hikers take from Látrar in Aðalvík. There are two trails leading to Straumnes – the western one and the eastern one. The western trail is actually a road Americans built in the 50s, and it’s therefore considerably easier.

The highlights of this trail include a view over Aðalvík and, of course, an exploration of the abandoned radar station.

Thanks to the eastern path, you can turn this into a loop hike. This path down from Straumnesfjall leads through the Öldudalur valley in Rekavík. The trail here is almost invisible, but you can sometimes see cairns or pieces of cairns.

For those who still haven’t had enough, you can also hike around the Rekavíkurvatn lake.

A hike to the former UK radar station in Darri from Sæból in Hornstrandir.Source: Borea Adventures tour.

Straumnes is not the only military station in Hornstrandir. There’s also a British radar station in Darri. You can reach Darri on a day hike from Sæból.

Coming from the campsite in Sæból, you first have to cross the river Traðará. A well-visible path then follows up to the valley of Garðadalur. The ascent up the mountain is steep and challenging.

On top of the hill, there is a road that will take you to the ruins of the British military base on mountain Darri.

A typical driftwood on almost every coastal hiking path in Hornstrandir. Picture by Reinhold Seiz.

You can hike all the way from Hornvík to Sópandi in Lónafjörður fjord via one of the most challenging trails in Hornstrandir. The trek leads through the highest mountain pass in Hornstrandir called Rangalaskarð.

You should only take this hike with a local or if you are already highly experienced in the area. There are several dangerous sections, and the trail as such is hard to navigate through.

Some of the threats you may expect are no marks, boggy terrain, river crossings, and high tides. You need to plan for a low tide between Miðkjós and Sópandi, otherwise, you most likely won’t pass.

This is the trail leading along the eastern bank of the Fljótsvatn Lake to Fljótavík. By taking this path you should be able to avoid the crossing of the lake Fljótavatn.

It’s almost impossible to find any info about this trail, so if you know anything about it, please contact us, and we will give you credit for all the info you provide.

The map of a day hike to Kögur from Fljótavík.

Kögur is a mountain near Fljótavík that can be explored on a challenging day trip. You may also add the areas of Krossadalur and Sandvíkurvatn to extend this hike.

The only way to get to the Kvíar lodge, one of the very few non-camping lodgings in Hornstrandir, is to take a private boat on a guided tour or to hike to it via challenging and unmarked trails.

One such trail leads to Kvíar from Veiðileysufjörður, and you should take it only if you are already well experienced in navigating throughout Hornstrandir.

Veiðileysufjörður. Picture by Reinhold Seiz.

It’s possible to get to Hlöðuvík also directly from Veiðileysufjörður and vice versa. However, the hiking trail is unmarked and quite challenging.

There are sections west of Veiðileysufjörður campsite where you basically have to hike in the sea around cliffs for hundreds of meters. Better pick a sunny day and low tide for this activity!

If you are a nature lover and hiking enthusiast, Hornstrandir is totally worth the time and money spent on planning. It’s one of the last pieces of remote hiking heaven on the planet, with no dangerous animals or insects. Just with a very harsh weather.

Yes, you can, and the chances are high! Hornstrandir is by far the best place in Iceland to see an Arctic fox. It’s highly likely they may even start playing with your tent!

This highly depends on your hiking ambitions. As short as one day is enough to explore some of the most beautiful areas in Hornstrandir as a day trip. On the other hand, as long as two weeks may not be enough to fully explore all the beauty Hornstrandir has to offer.

Hornstrandir is 100% safe when it comes to:

• Animals – there are no dangerous species,
• Insects – none of them are dangerous,
• Water – it’s fully safe to drink.

However, Hornstrandir can also be dangerous because:

• Weather can get very harsh with strong wind, rain, and fog
• There’s no network or cell coverage
• Hiking trails may be steep and not well visible at times
• If anything happens to you, help is far away

Hornstrandir fjords offer some of the most amazing views in Europe. Picture by Reinhold Seiz.

Plan and study the area in advance. Dress well. Practice long hikes at home. Expect extreme weather conditions. Don’t overestimate your hiking skills.

After reading this article, you should already have a good idea of what to expect in Hornstrandir.

• Don’t leave any rubbish behind you, take it all with yourself
• Don’t move stones or driftwood in any way
• Follow the trodden path as much as possible
• You can camp only in designated campgrounds
• Most campsites have toilets, use them whenever possible
• Campfires are forbidden
• Do not disturb animals, keep a safe distance of at least 40 meters whenever possible
• It’s strictly forbidden to feed animals
• Drones are forbidden unless you have a special permit
• Don’t pick any flowers, you can pick up berries, though
• You can find detailed Hornstrandir visitors’ rules here
• All the houses are private, don’t disturb anyone’s property!

In the end, I would like to say a huge thank you to Mr. Reinhold Seiz , who contributed sizeably to this article with his stunning photos of Hornstrandir!

Please, if you have any additional info you believe would be useful to place in this article, or if you believe something should be corrected, contact us , and we will give you all the credit for this info and a bottle of wine when we meet in Iceland 🙂

Posted by Igor

We have hiked Hornstrandir before, but only 2-3 days. We are going back for a longer trip. The official camp map you provide has a campsite for Fljótavík at the very nothernmost tip, but on the trail you provide, you seem to mark a campsite at the south-east corner. Is there a designated site there, or were you wild camping there?

Hi Katie, not sure which trail you mean? On this map , then also on this map and also on this trail – the Fljotavik campsite is marked at the very same spot.

Hi! So it was this map that confused me ( https://www.wikiloc.com/hiking-trails/latrar-fljotvik-reida-1120718 ). The campsite is shown as on the right bottom of the lake, but in the other maps, it is on the left side bottom of the lake. Does that help?

OK i see now that you are asking about the Glúmsstaðir Fljótavatn campsite (not Atlastaðir Fljotavik campsite). Yes, that one should be located southwest of Fljótavatn, this is the location all maps show. But rather double check this with the ferry company and/or rangers at the place of your basecamp. We haven’t camped at this campsite yet.

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The ultimate guide to Hornstrandir, Europe's last wilderness

Jan 10, 2022 • 6 min read

Hornstrandir is filled with remote, incredible landscapes like Hornbjarg, a cliff on the nature reserve's northern tip ©Keith Manning/500px

Sponsored by

Hornstrandir is one of Europe’s last wildernesses: a breathtakingly beautiful, hard-to-reach nature reserve of soaring mountains and precipitous cliffs.

Perched on the furthest tip of Iceland’s far-flung  Westfjords , it has limited accommodation and transport links, a very short season and challenging terrain. If you plan properly it’s perfectly possible to experience the exhilarating beauty of this pristine wilderness. Here's how to plan a visit.

Tucked into Iceland’s northwest corner, the 589-sq-km  Hornstrandir Nature Reserve (227-sq-mi) has an end-of-the-world feel. Waterfalls thunder down mountains, the midnight sun kisses the ocean, cliffs plummet to the sea and the mighty Drangajökull glacier overlooks the scene.

Hornstrandir occupies a jagged, fjord-scored peninsula and access is largely by fleets of ferries running from the Westfjords’ biggest town, Ísafjörður , some 30km (18.6 miles) south.

The nature reserve is one of Iceland’s most important strongholds of the protected Arctic fox and is also home to a wealth of seals, whales, puffins, sea eagles, black guillemots and Arctic terns.

Hornstrandir’s mountainous interior is edged by a string of campgrounds, huts and hostels, often at ferry drop-off points. Hiking trails snake between accommodation and ferry sites, opening up memorable multi-day hikes.

The reserve is all but uninhabited. Designated a nature reserve in 1975, its last few farmers moved out in 1952 – a handful of their descendants return in the summers to their restored homes. Today, Hornstrandir is managed by the Environment Agency of Iceland , which has produced this handy map .

When to visit Hornstrandir

The season on Hornstrandir is short. Ferries only run between June and August. The actual visitor season is shorter still – between late June and mid-August when the handful of hostels and huts are open. Many of Hornstrandir’s regular visitors say the best time to visit is an even narrower window, arguing only July gives the best of the notoriously fickle weather.

Where to hike

Hornstrandir is a hiker's paradise. The most popular route is the Royal Horn (or Hornsleið) a four- to five-day hike which crisscrosses the peninsula from Veiðileysufjörður in the south via Hornvík in the north and back to Hesteyri in the south. It takes in the sheer Hornbjarg bird cliffs, mountain passes, an abandoned village and glacier fjords.

Alternatively, some use the Old Doctor’s House , a cafe-turned-guesthouse in Hesteyri, as a base for day hikes. Others venture to even more remote ferry drop-off points and strike out from there.

The Environment Agency of Iceland has an online hiking map .

See gushing waterfalls and hidden hot springs on these 13 top Iceland hikes

Guided tours of Hornstrandir

The harsh terrain prompts many to join guided treks. In fact, if you don’t have extensive mountain experience and top-notch gear, it’s the wisest and most enjoyable choice.

Firms include West Tours , Borea and Wild Westfjords – all with bases in Ísafjörður. They offer Hornstrandir hikes of varying lengths ranging from a half-day tour around the abandoned village of Hesteyri to 6-16km day hikes (3.7-9.9 miles) and six-day backpacking expeditions.

Other options include single- or multi-day kayaking tours, Arctic fox photography trips and wildlife watching tours.

They’re hugely popular experiences – book early to be sure of a space.

Where to stay

You’ll need to love camping to enjoy Hornstrandir – the 16 campgrounds are bare-bone affairs. You have to stick to designated locations; wild or backwoods camping isn’t allowed. The Environment Agency map shows campgrounds .

Hornstrandir has a handful of hostels offering “sleeping bag accommodation” – basically a bed in a private room or dorm without bed linen; you bring your own sleeping bag and towels. But as you’re carrying a lot of camping kit, that shouldn’t be a problem.

The most useful hostels are:

• Old Doctor’s House  – Hornstrandir’s famous guesthouse-cafe is set in the abandoned village of Hesteyri on the southwest coast – its pancakes are legendary.
• Hornbjargsviti – Right beside a lighthouse, bunk bed accommodation and campsite on Hornstrandir’s northeast shore.
• Reykjarfjörður  – Just outside Hornstrandir’s far southeast edge. Basic sleeping bag accommodation, campsite and two houses sleeping three to five people. Plus – blissfully – a geothermal pool and hot tub.

What gear and skills do you need to visit Hornstrandir?

Hornstrandir is a hazardous outdoor environment. If you’re striking out on your own, be aware there are no services, no phone signal and even in summer, you’re likely to encounter snow, fog and raging rivers.

Some of the trails are partly marked with cairns, others are routes on a map rather than clearly-defined paths on the ground – a detailed map, a compass and GPS are essential.

If you’re planning your own trek, you’ll also need to carry all gear, including clothes, tents and stoves, as well as food and rubbish. Campfires are banned. Good-quality waterproof clothes and boots and a robust tent are also a must. The Environment Agency lists useful tips and the reserve’s rules .

Wardens warn that people routinely underestimate the challenges and dangers posed by Hornstrandir. Going on a guided trip ensures you’ll be safe enough to enjoy all that extraordinary scenery.

How to get to Hornstrandir

Iceland has a strong record of allowing travel by fully-vaccinated visitors, but you’ll need to check the latest COVID-19 rules and travel advice .

The Westfjords are some 450km (279.6 miles) north of the capital Reykjavik – a 5-6 hour drive. Reykjavik has plentiful car hire options, including some at the country’s main entry point, Keflavík International Airport .

Icelandair operates a 40-minute flight from Reykjavík Domestic Airport (50km/31 miles from Keflavík) to Ísafjörður.

Ísafjörður has good accommodation options, although as elsewhere in Iceland in the summer, reserve rooms well in advance.

The mountainous landscape means there are no roads into Hornstrandir. Between June and August ferries, run by West Tours and Borea , shuttle from the main town of Ísafjörður and nearby Bolungarvík to a ring of drop-off points in Hornstrandir.

Strandferdir also operates boats between June and mid-August from Norðurfjörður on the Strandir coast to the eastern side of Hornstrandir.

Ferries don’t run every day to each pick-up point, some operate only once or twice a week. You also need to book your return ferry in advance, so if you don’t arrive, they know to send out rescue teams.

Drop-offs, routes, accommodation and collection all need to be planned thoroughly. Or join an organized trip and let the guides handle the complex logistics.

Where to go for more information

Hornstrandastofa Iceland’s Environment Agency has a new Hornstrandir Visitor Centre in downtown Ísafjörður. Between September and May it’s open Monday to Friday from 1pm to 3pm. Between June and August it’s open Monday to Saturday from 8am to 4pm.

The agency’s useful Hornstrandir information webpage is full of essential info to help you get the most out of your trip.

The region’s tourist office has an office in Ísafjörður and can also advise over the phone.

You might also like: Why you should check out these magical Icelandic beaches It's possible to explore Iceland on a budget. Here's how. 8 unforgettable road trips in Iceland

The Westfjords are on our 2022 Best of Travel list. For more stories from some of the world’s most exciting destinations click here .

Safety recommendations and restrictions during a pandemic can change rapidly. Lonely Planet recommends that travelers always check with local authorities for up-to-date guidance before  traveling during Covid-19 .

Sponsored by Promote Iceland

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This story was crafted collaboratively between Promote Iceland and Lonely Planet. Both parties provided research and curated content to produce this story. We disclose when information isn’t ours.

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Hornbjargsviti

Hornstrandir traverse, traverse across this world renowned hiking destination in this 3 day tour of breathtaking views and good food.

Join us on a journey through the wild landscapes of Hornstrandir Nature Reserve , where we show you the best of what the area has to offer in a small group of like-minded adventurers. We totally recommend doing more than a day trip to the nature reserve as the nature takes on a different shape in the evenings. The Hornstrandir Traverse itinerary gives you the time needed to experience the serenity of this wondrous area. The Arctic Foxes come out from their dens searching for food, the midnight sun shines straight into Hornvík bay and it’s very cosy to sit around the table in our basecamp enjoying a nice cup of tea talking to your fellow travellers.

Contents of this tour

Tour overview.

• Challenging
• Min age: 16 years
• Accommodation
• Total Distance: 39km
• Group Size: 2-10

Description

The whole area is rich in history and wildlife that is nowhere to be seen elsewhere in Iceland. Millions of seabirds soar the cliffs in the summer and Arctic Foxes roam the land and are very curious. While hiking around the area, our guides will tell you stories of the people that lived there until it was abandoned soon after WWII.

We spend the two nights in our very cozy basecamp in the bay where you get your own cot in a big two-person tent. Gourmet dinners and social gatherings take place in our big mess tent where you can share the day’s adventure with your fellow travellers.

You should definitely put Hornstrandir Nature Reserve on your bucket list. All camping gear and food is supplied and you only need to bring a small backpack for your personal belongings.

Please  drop us an email if you’re interested!

• Boat ride to and from Hornstrandir Nature Reserve
• Accommodation at our comfortable basecamp
• Professional guide

Not included:

• Travel to and from Ísafjörður prior to and after the trip
• Food on the first day until the trip departs
• Personal medical insurance
• Personal equipment and clothing

Difficulty:  Challenging .

What to bring

Remember that everything you bring, you will have to carry on your back for one day. Try to pack as light as possible while still bringing everything you need.

Please note that we provide the tents, sleeping bag, mattress and pillow and you will not need to carry any of this with you. However, you will need to bring your own sleeping bag liner and pillow cover.

• Warm outdoor clothing including hiking pants and warm upper layers. Please avoid cotton as it keeps you cold when wet and takes a very long time to dry.
• Waterproof jacket and pants.
• Hiking boots. Please use waterproof high-top hiking boots, which provide ankle support.
• Thin neoprene socks is nice to have for crossing rivers. It keeps your toes warm. Light water shoes will also work.
• Light towel.
• Hat and gloves.
• Small backpack. Sufficient size is 35-45 Liters.
• Hiking poles might come in handy if your balance is not perfect and you’re not used to hiking in rocky terrain.
• Personal medical kit i.e. band aids, throat lozenges, lip salves, seasickness tablets etc. Don’t forget your personal medication, which you may need (e.g. Asthma inhaler, even if you don’t always need it).
• Sun glasses.
• Sunscreen and after sun cream.
• Binoculars are nice to have for watching wildlife. (Optional).
• Water bottle.
• Sleeping bag liner and pillow cover.
• Don’t forget your camera!

Super surprise trip from my son for my birthday : Glamping 3 days on the Hornstrandir Natural reserve. It was a private tour for me. Beautiful nature, great hikes, adorable arctic foxes, comfortable tents, good food and super guidance. Only the weather wasn't on our side the first 2 days. But the last day was super and made up for the two previous days weatherwise! I definetly can recommend this trip to anyone who loves to hike and appreciate the quietness of this pristine nature reserve! I would definitely do it over again and again!

Related Tours

Green cliffs of hornstrandir.

• Distance: 14.4km
• Group size: 2-10
• Min age 16 years

Hornstrandir Panorama

• Distance: 8-10km
• Group size: 4–10
• Min age 12 years

Hornvík Heights and Sights

• Distance: 21km
• Group size: 2-8

Lost Fjords

• Distance: 82km
• Group size: 4-8

Midnight Sun and Arctic Foxes

• Distance: 10-30km

Wildlife and Arctic Foxes

• Distance: 5km
• Min age For almost all ages
• Location: Aðalstræti 17
• (+354) 456 3322
• Email: [email protected]

Rights & Acknowledgments

Skútusiglingar ehf | Aðalstræti 17 | 400 Ísafjörður | Kt. 530306-1510 | VAT Number: 110291

Our Adventures

Multi-day tours, information, about borea, hornstrandir, boat services.

Iceland is open for travel. Check volcano updates here .

Multi-day Tours

Trekking Tours

2-Day Hornvik Hiking Tour In Hornstrandir Nature Reserve

Explore the hidden treasures of the westfjords and hike from hornvik to veiðileysufjörður.

Hike from Hornvik to Veidileysufjordur in Hornstrandir Nature Reserve, a place where no humans have lived since the 1950s and where Arctic foxes roam free.

• Scenic Boat Ride Around Hornstrandir Nature Reserve
• Hornvík Bay
• Hornbjarg Bird Cliffs
• Hafnarskarð Mountain Pass
• Veiðileysufjörður Fjord
• Chance to See Arctic Foxes
• Chance to See Whales and Dolphins
• Boat Transfers to and from Hornstrandir
• Guided Hikes
• Accommodation in 2-People Tents
• All Meals During the Tour
• Use of Heated Kitchen Tent

What to bring

• Sleeping bag liner
• Pillow cover
• Warm thermal underwear and outdoor clothing
• Waterproof jacket and pants
• Sturdy hiking boots
• Hat and gloves
• Personal medical kit
• Camera and binoculars
• Water bottle

Tour Snapshot

• Expert Guides
• Small Group Experience
• No Booking Fees
• Fast & Secure Payment
• Best Price Guarantee
• Operated by our trusted partner

Got 2 days to spare in Iceland? This 2-day hike from Hornvik Bay to Veidileysufjordur might be just the meditation you need. Nature here is as feral as it gets, with abundant wildlife and unmatched views. Explore Hornvik Heights, visit huge bird colonies, seek out Arctic foxes, and hike across the vast wildflower meadows of Hornstrandir Nature Reserve during the day. At night, camp in a well-equipped tent with a kitchen while surrounded by nature.

Remember that you will have to carry all your belongings with you throughout the hike, so pack only the essentials. We will provide tents to sleep in, a sleeping bag, mattress, pillow, and all necessary cookware. 

Meeting point

Please be at “Borea Adventures” office building on Aðalstræti 17, Isafjordur at 8 a.m. on the day of the tour. 

Day 1 - Hornvik Bay and Beach

Our journey to the wilderness of Hornstrandir Nature Reserve will begin when we meet at our headquarters, located on Aðalstræti 17 in Isafjordur. Your guide will provide you with a detailed overview of the tour and answer all your questions. We’ll board our boat and set off to the peninsula at 9 a.m.

The boat ride to Hornvik Bay will take approximately 2-3 hours and take you along the shores of Iceland’s western fjords. The scenery comprises stunning towering fjords covered in green moss, rocky and rough coastline, and local flora and fauna. There’s a high chance we’ll see a whale waving its tail or an abundance of sea birds nesting on the cliffs along the coast. 

The boat will drop us off at Hornvik Bay near an old farm in Horn. Hornstrandir Nature Reserve has been uninhabited since the 1950s and the whole area is teeming with birds, Arctic foxes, and meadows of wildflowers. As soon as you step off the boat, you’ll find yourself at the edge of the world where nature is untouched. From the bay, we’ll follow the path that winds along the Hornbjarg Cliffs. The path gradually ascends and is easy to hike. 

The Hornbjarg Cliffs are among the most famous bird cliffs in Iceland. The cliffs cradle many species of birds including the famous guillemots. Once at the top, don’t forget to look around and see if you can spot the fearless Arctic foxes that freely roam the meadows. In Hornstrandir, Arctic foxes and many other species of birds and mammals nest and raise their juniors without fear of becoming a hunter’s dinner as hunting here is strictly forbidden.  

After taking countless pictures, we’ll descend back into the cliff’s valley. We’ll arrive back to our camp already set up and waiting for us. Dinner will be served as soon as we settle in. 

Hiking Distance : 7.5 mi (12km).

Day 2 - Hafnarskarð Pass and Veiðileysufjörður Fjord

Day 2 of our hiking trip starts with a hearty breakfast. Later in the morning we pack up and leave for the Veiðileysufjörður Fjord.

The hike up the fjord isn’t very challenging, but keep in mind that you will ascend approximately 1640 ft (500 m) above sea level. The path leading to the top of the fjord is snowy most of the time, but your guide will help you every step of the way.

The ascent is extremely picturesque. Take your time soaking in the surrounding panoramas. If the weather is good, you’ll be able to see as far as the ocean and the other end of the peninsula. We’ll stop at a few viewing points to take pictures.

Once everyone is ready, we’ll descend along the other side of the fjord all the way to the shore. At around 5-6 p.m. a boat will pick us up and take us back to Isafjordur. The ride will last for around one hour.

Hiking distance : 6.8 mi (11 km).

What if I don’t own all of these clothing necessaries?

Don’t worry, you can always rent sturdy hiking shoes, a waterproof jacket and pants in the booking process or add them to your booking. You can book these items and more under the selection “Extras” in the booking widget when booking your tour on our website.

If you have already booked the tour and wish to add some rental gear to your booking, you can do so at least 24 hours prior to your tour starting by using our customer portal -  My Adventures , or contacting our  customer care .

Please keep in mind that we do not rent gear on location.

What type of weather can I expect? What should I wear?

First of all, check the  weather forecast  but keep in mind that the weather in Iceland can be extremely unpredictable, as you may have heard. We have a saying “If you don’t like the weather in Iceland, just wait 5 minutes” which is sometimes disturbingly accurate!

The weather can be anything from sunny to snowy in almost any season although snow is rare during summer time. We do suggest that you dress accordingly. This means in layers, thermal closest to you and waterproof on top. We’ve prepared a guide to help you get ready for your adventures, check out –  How to prepare for hiking and trekking in Iceland .

Can I wear jeans and sneakers?

No, please do not wear jeans and sneakers on this tour, it’s not appropriate clothing for this type of tour. Check the list of what to bring to see what kind of clothing is appropriate.

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Contact us for more information about this tour.

Arctic Adventures offers pick up service from selected Reykjavík pick up points. Note that you can always update your pick-up / drop-off location through our customer portal: https://my.adventures.is You can press the login button in your confirmation email for an easy login to the customer portal. If you experience an error with logging into the customer portal or can't find your booking, please contact us on Facebook Messenger, or send us a message here below. Chat with us on Facebook Messenger

Hike the Lost Fjords of Hornstrandir in Iceland

July through August

Your tour starts in Ísafjörður, a 40-min flight away from Reykjavik

Tents and a base camp

Things to know

How about backpacking just south of the Arctic Circle? Hornstrandir is one of Europe’s last frontiers of complete wilderness: even horses have been banned here since it was declared a nature reserve in 1975. Located in the remote Icelandic region of Westfjords, it has everything, from towering basalt mountains with the remnants of ancient glaciers, to deep fjords revealing bays and cliffs created by relentless ocean waves. Not to mention the Arctic foxes wandering tundra fields in the midnight sun. Feeling one with nature is easy at the edge of the world. Forget phone signals and Wi-Fi—this backpacking adventure will let you see the Land of Fire and Ice at its most rugged and beautiful.

Enjoy the views of dramatic cliffs, basalt mountains, deep fjords, and tundra fields

The world’s highest concentration of Arctic foxes and countless colonies of seabirds

Full-on backpacking makes it easy to feel you are at the very edge of the world

Embark on a 6-day hiking and backpacking adventure in the untouched Hornstrandir Nature Reserve, located in the far-flung Icelandic region of Westfjords. With an experienced local guide by your side, explore the magnificent fields, cliffs, and mountains of the area. Enjoy all-inclusive meals during the journey, with accommodation in tents and a comfortable base camp. Your hassle-free adventure includes ferry transfers and most camping gear. Uncover the raw beauty of the Land of Ice and Fire with us!

Upon your arrival in Ísafjörður, meet your guide and fellow backpackers at the guide shop in town. Go through an extensive gear check and discuss the details of the adventure ahead of you. Afterward, you can spend some time hanging out with your group by going for dinner or drinks—before going back to tour accommodation to get some rest for tomorrow.

Note: Accommodation for this night is not included in the price of the tour.

Your adventure starts with taking a ferry ride from Ísafjörður to Hornstrandir at 9am. Your group will first make their way to the abandoned village of Hesteyri. By that point, you will have left the modern world behind and entered a wonderland of sounds, from soothing streams to the whisper of the waves by the beach. Start hiking in Hesteyri and head for Hesteyrarskarð mountain pass. From there, make your way down the other side to sea level. Set up a camp and get to know your group even better over dinner before getting some well-deserved rest.

Meals : Lunch and dinner Accommodation : Camping in Látrar Distance : 7.5 miles (12 km)

Wake up in the middle of Icelandic wilderness and enjoy a hearty breakfast. From Aðalvík, your group will have the option of a big detour to the top of Straumnesfjall mountain to explore an abandoned radar station built in 1953 by the American army. You will then head over to Fljótavík. To get there, cross the Atlastaðaós river, which can get a bit tricky as it is sensitive to sea tides. Upon reaching your destination for the day, set up the camp and enjoy another delicious dinner before retreating to your tent.

Meals : Breakfast, lunch, and dinner Accommodation : Camping in Atlastaðir Distance : 9.3 miles (15 km)

After breakfast, start the day by hiking along the green banks of Fljótsvatn lake. The lake is beautiful and the mountain range on the left-hand side is impressive. Your group will then need to cross a few mountain passes to get across the mountain range separating you from the next destination—Hlöðuvík. Once there, set up a camp and go for an evening walk to Hælavík (optional). Enjoy another evening of delicious dining and great stories from your guide and fellow hikers.

Meals : Breakfast, lunch, and dinner Accommodation : Camping in Búðir Distance : 8 miles (13 km)

After another heart breakfast, head up a steep slope to the mountain ridge Skálakambur and follow a route marked with cairns towards the steep Atlaskarð mountain pass. Once there, your group will go around Mt. Kollur and from there start making your way towards Höfn in Hornvík, the heart of Hornstrandir Nature Reserve. This is a place of dramatic natural beauty and should not be missed out by anyone traveling in this area. It is necessary to spend more than one day at this awe-inspiring place so we will put up camp there for two nights. Basecamp in Hornvík offers more amenities, so the next two evenings will be more comfortable.

Meals : Breakfast, lunch, and dinner Accommodation : Basecamp in Hornvík Distance : 7.5 miles (12 km)

Wake up, savor your breakfast and take in the views! Nothing compares to the beauty of Hornvík, surrounded by two of Iceland’s largest bird cliffs. Like the entire Hornstrandir area, Hornvík is very remote and is only accessible by boat or by foot. Today, you’ll leave behind yur backpack and hike to the Hornbjarg cliff (carrying only your lunch!) where thousands of birds can be seen and the massive sculptures of mother nature make human beings feel very small and vulnerable. Many visitors state that the hike to Hornbjarg is the highlight of their Hornstrandir trip. At the end of the day, head back to Hornvík where you spent the last night.

Meals : Breakfast, lunch, and dinner Accommodation : Basecamp in Hornvík Distance : 10 miles (16 km)

Today you will pack your tents and gear, hit the trail and cross yet another mountain pass to get to Veiðileysufjörður fjord. After crossing the mountain range, descend down to the coast again, following the beach for a while until your group reaches Meleyri. From there, you’ll get picked up by a boat that will take you to Ísafjörður, back to civilization after almost a week in the wild. This marks the end of your adventure. For those eager to wash off their hiking dust, a visit to Ísafjörður swimming pool is ideal. Others can relax, go out, eat and just enjoy the town.

Meals : Breakfast Distance : 7.5 miles (12 km)

Meet your guides

I went hiking and camping for six days in Hornstrandir. The landscape is stunning but the weather provides plenty of challenges. I went on my own, joining a group of five. This kind of trip throws people together from all over the world, and our group was up for anything, great fun, and fascinating people who I feel grateful to have met. Max, our guide was superb from beginning to end. Nothing was too much trouble. Very skilled and careful in navigating the environment. Very funny, and lots of excellent stories. He was a true inspiration. This was my second trip with Borea, after kayaking last year. They are an excellent company. I couldn’t recommend them more highly. Their trips are well organised and safety conscious. You definitely need to be properly prepared, and the other reviews have lots of excellent info. I would say, if you have an adventurous spirit, but are looking for the security of the organisation being taken care of, then this is the company for you!

Took this six-day tour last week. There were five others on the trip plus a guide. It was an enjoyable and rewarding experience – great hiking opportunities and amazing sights. Weather is variable – we had three sunny days and three that were not so good. But it never got worse than rain. Best thing to do is invest in a pair of sturdy waterproof boots and make sure you bring enough pairs of socks. Our guide, Max, was very assured in his knowledge of the terrain. He was on top of everything throughout, made sure we had everything we needed and was a great travel companion too. I am delighted I took this trip and would definitely do another with Borea Adventures.

This was the experience of a lifetime. Our group had such a fantastic adventure going through the beautiful (and at times challenging) nature reserve. Max was an excellent guide, we could not have asked for anyone better to guide us and cooked some fantastic meals. He showed great expertise and ease in helping me through some of the tougher bits, and was just a lovely chap all around. Everyone at Borea Adventures were so welcoming and helpful, we could not have asked for a better company to travel with.

I joined the “lost fjord tour” by Borea Adventures. It was a great experience! Stunning nature, millions of birds, excellent guidance by Örvar who knows a lot about nature and history of the westfjords, incredible light for photography and the best homemade cereal bars I’ve ever had!

Very professional and experienced operation. The very best way to see Hornstrandir. Friendly, knowledgeable, helpful guides. Highly recommend

This is a superb organization, and an amazing place. Simply stunning. An experience we will never forget. Our two day trip was the highlight of our time in Iceland, and the staff of Borea went beyond expectations. We can’t stop thinking about it, and I am ready to go back! It goes without saying, that Hornstrandir Nature Reserve is beyond beautiful. But, we also found the staff of Borea skilled not only in their knowledge of the area and nature, but in their understanding of people. They were very helpful in some of the challenging moments of the hikes.

What you get on this adventure:

• An experienced, local hiking guide with extensive knowledge of the area
• A 6-day hiking and backpacking adventure in the Hornstrandir Nature Reserve
• All meals during the adventure
• Accommodation in tents (3 nights) and a comfortable base camp (2 nights)
• Ferry transfer to Hornstrandir and back
• All camping gear (except sleeping bag and pad)

What’s not included:

• Transportation to and from Ísafjörður
• Accommodations before and after the adventure
• Hotel in Longyearbyen a day prior to the start of the tour
• Sleeping bag and pad — can be rented
• Guide gratuities — optional
• Travel and medical insurance — recommended

To join this guided hiking and backpacking tour in the Hornstrandir Nature Reserve, you should be in good physical condition and have plenty of hiking experience . The journey involves navigating various challenging terrains while carrying a backpack. Daily distances range from 7.5 to 10 miles (12-16 km), and elevation gains can reach up to 1,970 feet (600 meters), including mountain passes.

The terrain varies from wet and mossy to rocky and steep, with some sections lacking defined trails. Expect challenging ascents over diverse surfaces, including loose rock, soft ground, and occasional snow, with a total ascent on backpacking days of 1,640 to 1,970 feet (500-600m). While your guide will aim for food and camping gear drops with passenger boats, participants should be prepared for a self-supported journey, which includes carrying a loaded backpack that weighs 33-37 lbs (15-17 kg) . That said, you will only carry your daypack on Day 5 and on Day 6 you’ll only carry your personal gear,

Preparation is key for an optimal experience . We recommend engaging in regular cardiovascular and strength training to enhance endurance and stamina. Hiking on uneven terrain with a loaded backpack is particularly useful. Additionally, it is beneficial to have some basic knowledge of how to pack efficiently and lightly for multi-day hikes.

Keep in mind that you will walk at a slow pace and take regular breaks , allowing you to fully enjoy scenery. You will also have a guide by your side to encourage you, teach you all the necessary backpacking skills, and keep everyone safe.

Here’s a list of the equipment you need to bring:

• Backpack large enough to carry all the items listed (around a 50-60L)
• Lightweight synthetic hiking jacket
• Waterproof hiking jacket
• Waterproof hiking pants
• Warm hiking socks (at least three pairs)
• Wool thermal tops (at least two)
• Wool thermal underwear (at least one pair)
• Waterproof, high-top hiking boots hiking boots, which provide good ankle support
• Water shoes and gaiters
• Hat and warm gloves or mittens.
• Sleeping bag (rated to at least 0°C)
• Sleeping pad (thin and inflatable one is best as it easily fits inside the backpack)
• Personal medical kit (band aids, throat lozenges, lip salves, seasickness tablets, personal medication, etc.)
• Sunglasses, sunscreen and after sun cream
• Binoculars (for watching wildlife) — optional
• Water bottle (1L capacity is enough)
• Hiking poles — optional
• Toiletries (sunscreen, hand sanitizer, bug spray, toilet paper, etc.)
• Camera — optional (but recommended)

Bring comfortable clothes that you can move in. Remember that everything you bring, you will have to carry on your back the first four days. Try to pack as light as possible while still bringing everything you need, but not everything you may want.

You can rent a backpack, sleeping bag, and ski and avalanche equipment from your guide for an additional fee if you don’t want to bring your own. You can contact us prior to booking to make arrangements.

Your guide provides sturdy two-person tents and therefore you are expected to share with one other person. If you would like a tent to yourself after each daily hike in Hostrandir, it can be arranged for an additional fee— just select this option during the booking process.

Arctic Fox sightings are frequent during any Horstrandir hike. Due to hunting restrictions in Hornstrandir, these animals exhibit reduced timidity around humans, allowing for close encounters at times. However, the fact remains that they remain wild animals. While close encounters are probable, sightings cannot be guaranteed during this guided Hosrnstrandir hiking and backpacking adventure.

Group sizes and pricing

• For this group adventure, the maximum number of participants is 12.
• It takes a minimum of 4 people for this tour to operate.

Hiking and backpacking in Hornstrandir Nature Reserve can be arranged for larger or private groups. Contact us to make arrangements.

Min. age requirements

• If you are older than 18, you’re good to go.
• Minors younger than 18 may be permitted to join the hike on a case-by-case basis, but must be in the presence of a parent or legal guardian.

If your group has hikers under the age of 18, contact us prior to booking to make arrangements.

To get to Ísafjörður, the starting point of the adventure, most people fly into Keflavik International Airport (near Reykjavik). From there, most people take another, 40-min flight to Ísafjörður Airport . Another option is renting a car and driving to Ísafjörður, which would take you around 6 hours.

Participants should arrive in Ísafjörður at least one day before the Hostrandir hiking and backpacking trip begins (Day 0 in the itinerary). On that day, you will meet your guide and fellow backpackers at the guide shop in Ísafjörður (Aðalstræti 17) at 5pm for a pre-trip briefing.

We highly recommend that you cover all your bases with both emergency medical and travel insurance. With medical insurance, if you have an accident or medical emergency on or off the mountain, you’ll avoid paying out of pocket for costly expenses. This covers everything from hospital treatments to emergency air transportation and more.

Travel insurance covers canceled flights, natural disasters and other scenarios that may interrupt your travel plans.

We also expect you to respect local regulations and take measures to protect yourselves, your guides, and the communities you’re traveling to. For more information on travel recommendations and restrictions in Westfjords, Iceland, please refer to Iceland’s foreign travel advice .

If you need assistance selecting the right insurance for your group, let us know and we will be happy to help!

Iceland, the “Land of Fire and Ice”, has forever lived with volcanic activity. Minor and major eruptions have occurred every few years since the island was formed. Some of Iceland’s appeal, aside from sheer natural beauty, surely stems from this very fact.

However, every new eruption, such as the recent Reykjanes Peninsula fissure, will make some travelers, tourists, and adventurers uneasy, especially given the fact that sensationalist media is not immune to misinformation and speculation.

Since we work with a number of expert local guides in Iceland, we thought we’d share their input and fill you in on what’s actually going on.

First of all, air traffic has not been affected. Flights to and from Keflavík International Airport and Reykjavík Domestic Airport are operating as they always do.

Second, the effects of volcanic activity have been localized, with some roads closed, and all services in Iceland are operating as usual. Reykjavik, the capital, is around 40 km (25 miles) away from the volcanic fissure, and life there is as normal as ever.

And third, trips offered by 57hours are taking place much further away, and are thereby even less likely to be affected by the volcanic activity, being perfectly safe for adventurers. Naturally, the authorities (and guides) are monitoring the situation and doing everything possible to keep both local residents and visitors safe and well informed.

In case you have any additional questions or dilemmas, feel free to get in touch with either your guide or 57hours. For more information, please visit: https://safetravel.is/ https://www.visiticeland.com/article/volcano-info

Or watch the video with Dr. Matthew Roberts from the Icelandic Meteorological Office explaining the recent volcanic activities in Iceland: https://youtu.be/QA3-BXYuYrw?feature=shared

Secure your spot for 2025 with a 10% deposit! This tour gets sold out very quickly, but with early-bird booking, you’ll be the first one to know. Pick the month that suits you best and we’ll let you know once the dates are live—don’t risk missing out on your bucket list adventure!

• Only 10% of the total amount should be paid as a deposit upon booking. This deposit is non-refundable, but can be transferred to another 57hours adventure in case the dates don’t suit you by the end of the year.
• Once the set dates for the following season are live, you can confirm your booking by the end of this year by paying another 20% of the total amount.
• The final balance is due 1 month (30 days) prior to departure.

For set dates, a 25% deposit to secure your place is due upon booking . The remaining amount is paid 1 month (30 days) prior to departure at the latest. Once the trip is confirmed by the guide, the cancellation policy stated below applies.

• If Client cancels the Booking anytime prior to sixty (60) calendar days in advance of the trip contemplated by the booking, the deposit will be forfeited.
• For cancellations thirty-one (31) to fifty-nine (59) calendar days in advance, Client is entitled to a refund in the amount of fifty percent (50%) of the total amount paid when Booking.
• After that deadline, Client is not entitled to any refund. Any reimbursable expenses arising out of the Booking incurred by Guide prior to the date of cancellation (including but not limited to plane tickets, car rental payments, and lodging or transportation fees) are non-refundable as soon as they are incurred by the Guide.

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Hornstrandir Nature Reserve

This territory of the Arctic fox has been uninhabited since the 1950s. As isolated as it was then, it attracts the casual half-day visitors and serious gore-tex hikers alike. Its main attractions are three. First, the bird cliffs surrounding the bay of Hornvík, are a magnet of gigantic proportions. On the eastern side of the bay the cliff reaches a height of more than 500 metres, and the birds are teeming. Second, as there is no infrastructure and the tourists few in relation to the sheer size of the area, the sense of remoteness is strong. You can hike days on end without seeing a single person. The nature is pure and the tranquillity unmatched. Third, dwas the area is a haven for the Arctic fox (think hunting-ban and bird-packed cliffs), the chances of spotting one are high.

Most tours, especially day tours, depart from Ísafjörður. Hikers wanting to go on their own can also take boats from Norðurfjörður.

Hornstrandir Travel Guide

Hornstrandir is a nature reserve located in the Westfjords, in the north-west of Iceland. The total area covers 580 square kilometres (220 square miles) of tundra, cliffs, flowering fields and ice.

Discover the wonders of this region by taking a tour of the Westfjords . This beautiful region can be visited as part of this 14-Day Self Drive . Those who rent a car and travel to the  Westfjords  can visit it on this  day tour .

The glacier Drangajökull sits to the region’s southern area.

The nature reserve was established in 1975. Its borders encompass the picturesque fjords Hrafnfjörður and Furufjörður, finishing at Skorarheiði moor.

Given the nature reserve’s isolated location, even for the Westfjords, it makes sense that Hornstrandir has a rich history quite distinct from that of mainland Iceland. Farming was difficult given the region’s terrain and tall cliffs, so early settlers chose fishing and the hunting of birds as their primary livelihood.

Those who lived there often stayed in abodes some distance from one another, making travelling to and from farmsteads difficult in the wintertime. In this respect, life at Hornstrandir was lonely and difficult to sustain.

Outlaws often travelled to Hornstrandir in the hope of boarding foreign ships and embarking to start a new life abroad. Aside from fearing the law, such travellers also had to watch out for polar bears who, every so often, would float ashore on an ice cap or swim over from neighbouring Greenland. This was especially the case during the Mini Ice Age at the start of the last millennium.

Flora and Fauna

There are approximately 260 different species of flowering plant and fern that grow in Hornstrandir; many of these are native across the entirety of the Westfjords, others are unique only to the reserve.

One of the reasons for this luscious abundance of plant life is because Hornstrandir has been devoid of grazing animals for several decades. Knee-high plant life will often stretch out for kilometres, culminating in a challenging hike through the wilderness.

Ever since the 1950s, Hornstrandir has been devoid of permanent human residents. The area is inaccessible to motorised traffic, and only a few old buildings and farmsteads now allude to the area’s history of settlement. It is, however, home to Iceland’s only native mammal, the cheeky, yet elusive, Arctic Fox, who preys upon the birds nesting along Hornstrandir’s towering cliff-faces.

There is a hunting ban across Hornstrandir, meaning the fox populations are free to live without the threat of human intrusion. This means they have no fear of travellers, and will often approach a camp looking for a bite to eat.

The other most prominent mammal in the region are field mice, though these are, naturally, more difficult to spot. As for birdlife, enthusiasts can spot many nesting species, notably arctic terns, puffins and black guillemots. The region has the two of the largest bird cliffs in Europe, overshadowing the coastal paradise that is Hornvík Bay.

The only one larger is Látrabjarg , on the other side of the Westfjords.

Activities at Hornstrandir

Those looking to hike, explore and stay at Hornstrandir must bring a tent and supplies if they’re looking to camp overnight. As previously stated, the nature reserve has no roads, permanent dwellings or shops, meaning that those who take to the wild here must be self-sustaining.

Travelling here requires much forethought and visitors must be fully prepared with food, water, warm layers of clothing and sturdy hiking boots.

Hiking to Hornbjarg is a must-do activity in Hornstrandir; this is the area's most iconic natural feature, a towering cliff at the top of the nature reserve

The region is only accessible for organised trips during the summer months (May, June, July and, occasionally, August). During the winter, only specially permitted excursions are allowed to enter the area.

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