Grænihryggur Hiking Tour in Iceland

HIGHLAND

Availability: See booking system
Duration: 8–10 hours hiking, 14 hours total with pick-up from Reykjavik
Level: More difficult
Hiking distance: 18–20 km
Maximum altitude: 800–900 m
Meeting point: BSÍ Bus Terminal in Reykjavik
Clothing: Warm clothes, waterproof jacket and pants, warm hat and gloves. Good hiking boots.
Age limit: 16 years
Included: Guided hike through beautiful scenery with a professional guide. Transportation from Reykjavik.
Note: Remember to bring food and drinks.

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A challenging hike in Iceland through a spectacular landscape with vibrant colors

Join us on an awe-inspiring hiking adventure in the Landmannalaugar area. The destination is Grænihryggur – Greenridge, a rhyolite ridge where the rock has turned a striking green due to rapid cooling (which creates glass) and traces of Fe2+ particles (iron in +2 ion form), which usually give rhyolite a green tint – but rarely in the amounts found at Grænihryggur.

This hiking tour in Iceland is only offered a few times during the summer and is primarily designed for our Icelandic guests – making it a rare opportunity to hike alongside local adventurers. It's the ideal option for anyone looking for an authentic and deeply local experience.

We depart from the BSÍ Bus Terminal at 7:00 AM. The drive to the starting point takes us through the Fjallabak Nature Reserve, a landscape of river crossings, steep and narrow mountain roads, and constantly changing scenery.

The hike lasts about 8 hours and includes a few minor river crossings. Be sure to bring lightweight shoes or wading sandals for those sections, and sturdy hiking boots for the rest. Bring plenty of snacks to stay energized, and don't forget your camera to capture the incredible surroundings!

Greenridge is one of Iceland's hidden treasures. The almost fluorescent green color of the rhyolite ridge looks like something from another planet and is absolutely worth the effort – even though the hike is challenging.