Icelandic Highlands

The Icelandic Highlands, or Central Highlands (Hálendið), represent one of Europe's last great wilderness areas. This vast, uninhabited interior is a land of extremes - volcanic deserts, colorful rhyolite mountains, glacial rivers, and hot springs in the middle of nowhere.

Landmannalaugar, the "People's Pools," is the crown jewel of the highlands. This geothermal wonderland features rainbow-colored mountains, natural hot springs, and is the starting point for the famous Laugavegur trek to Þórsmörk. The area's rhyolite mountains display an incredible palette of colors created by volcanic minerals.

Access to the highlands is limited to summer months (typically July to September) when F-roads are open. A proper 4x4 vehicle is essential, as you'll need to ford rivers and navigate rough terrain. Guided tours offer the safest way to experience this remarkable region.