Private Full-day Hidden Highlands Tour from Reykjavík with Luke by Jeep

Exploring Iceland’s lesser-known highlights becomes effortless with the Private Full-day Hidden Highlands Tour from Reykjavík led by Luke, a knowledgeable guide who offers a deeply personalized experience. Priced at $1,000 per person, this 11-hour adventure departs from Hallgrimskirkja at 9:00 am and showcases some of the most breathtaking and untouched locations in the south highlands. Traveling in a Jeep 4×4, the tour gains access to off-the-beaten-track places that regular buses cannot reach, making this an ideal choice for travelers seeking an exclusive and immersive Icelandic journey.

This tour emphasizes discovering hidden waterfalls, rugged canyons, and ancient Viking sites, offering a combination of natural beauty and history. While it may be a longer and more private alternative to group tours, it is especially suited for those who want to avoid crowds and enjoy the flexibility of a tailored itinerary. The photography package, which includes pictures taken by your guide, adds a memorable touch to this unique adventure.

Key Points

• Private 11-hour tour starting at $1,000 per person in a Jeep 4×4
• Discover hidden waterfalls, canyons, and Viking ruins rarely seen by typical travelers
• Access off-road tracks for exclusive encounters with Iceland’s pristine landscapes
• Guided by Luke, a professional who provides photographs and drone footage after the trip
• Flexible itinerary, focusing on natural beauty and Icelandic history
• Catering to travelers who prefer a private experience with personalized attention

Discover the Remote Gaukshöfði Hill and Hekla Views

The tour begins with a visit to Gaukshöfði, a hill offering sweeping panoramic views over the Þjórsá river valley and the Hekla volcano. This stop provides a perfect photo opportunity, capturing the raw landscape that Iceland is famous for. With 30 minutes allocated, visitors enjoy the quiet beauty of this viewpoint, away from crowds.

From here, the adventure continues to untouched natural sites, allowing for moments of peaceful reflection and spectacular vistas. The accessibility of Gaukshöfði highlights the tour’s ability to reach elevated viewpoints with ease, thanks to the 4×4 vehicle’s off-road capabilities.

Exploring Tungnaárfellsfoss: Iceland’s Pristine Waterfall

Next, the Tungnaárfellsfoss waterfall offers a broad cascade along the Tungnaá river. This location is notable for its pristine environment, where visitors can breathe in pure Icelandic air while enjoying the solitude of this less-visited site. With 40 minutes at this stop, the focus remains on experiencing untouched nature.

Since no admission fee is charged, this stop emphasizes natural beauty over commercial development. It’s an ideal location for photography or simply soaking in the peaceful surroundings, making it a highlight of the off-the-beaten-path aspect of this tour.

Hjálparfoss: The Two-Stepped Waterfall Near Hekla

A short drive from Tungnaárfellsfoss leads to Hjálparfoss, a stunning two-tier waterfall characterized by unique basalt rock formations. Located in Þjórsárdalur valley, close to the active Hekla volcano, this site offers dramatic scenery and a large plunge pool.

The site is particularly appealing for its geological features and the opportunity to explore near an active volcanic area. Visitors spend about 1 hour here, with plenty of time for photos and short walks. Its proximity to other significant sites like Þjófafoss and Háifoss offers further exploration for those with additional time.

Visiting the Viking Turf House at Thjodveldisbaerinn Stong

A unique cultural stop involves the reconstructed Viking turf house at Stong in Þjórsárdalur. This site presents a well-preserved ruin based on the original manor farm and provides insight into Viking-era architecture.

The 30-minute visit allows for exploration of this historical reconstruction, giving an authentic sense of Iceland’s saga age. It’s an educational highlight that balances the natural scenery with a glimpse into Iceland’s ancient past.

Thjofafoss: The Legendary Thief Falls

Continuing in the Þjórsá river valley, Thjofafoss is a waterfall steeped in local legend. At 40 minutes, visitors can admire the powerful cascade and imagine the stories of thieves drowned there. Situated in the Merkurhraun lava field, the setting emphasizes Iceland’s volcanic terrain.

This location combines mythical storytelling with striking nature, making it a memorable stop for those interested in Icelandic folklore and dramatic landscapes.

The Delicate Beauty of Gjain

Gjain is one of the tour’s most picturesque stops, a hidden gorge in Þjórsárdalur with a small waterfall, Gjárfoss, tumbling into a gorge surrounded by lush greenery. The Rauðá river flows through this quiet spot, emphasizing its delicate beauty.

Spending 40 minutes here allows ample time for photography and peaceful exploration. Its fragile environment reminds visitors to treat the area with respect, adding a sense of reverence for Iceland’s untouched nature.

Sigöldugljúfur Canyon: Iceland’s Miniature Grand Canyon

The Sigöldugljúfur canyon is a fascinating, colorful canyon with small waterfalls and a blue river flowing through lush vegetation. Its almost magical atmosphere makes it a perfect setting for adventure storytelling or cinematic scenes.

With a 50-minute stay, visitors can walk along the canyon, marvel at the vivid colors, and photograph its small waterfalls. Its uniqueness makes it a standout feature of this tour.

Sigoldufoss and Haifoss: Towering Waterfalls of the Highlands

Sigoldufoss is a 10-meter-high waterfall on the Tungnaá river, offering a tranquil yet impressive scene. The nearby Haifoss, towering 122 meters, is one of Iceland’s highest waterfalls, located in Fossá river.

A 1-hour stop at Haifoss gives ample opportunity to appreciate its magnificence and capture great photographs. Both waterfalls showcase the highlands’ powerful water features and the raw force of Iceland’s glaciers and springs.

The Unique Experience of a Private Jeep Tour

Traveling in a private Jeep 4×4 offers unmatched access to rugged, off-road locations that larger vehicles cannot reach. The customized itinerary allows for flexibility, giving the guide room to adapt the stops based on weather or the group’s interests.

This private experience not only enhances comfort and exclusivity but ensures that visitors enjoy a personalized and unhurried exploration of the highlands. The guide, Luke, enhances the trip with photographs and drone footage, capturing the adventure in high quality, then sharing it afterward as a memorable keepsake.

Logistics and Meeting Point Details

The tour starts at Hallgrimskirkja, a central Reykjavík landmark, at 9:00 am. The end point is the same as the start, simplifying logistics. Included in the experience is pickup and a mobile ticket, making access straightforward.

Since the tour is private, only your group participates, providing a tailored experience with personalized attention from Luke. The 11-hour duration allows for a comprehensive exploration of the highlands’ most captivating spots without feeling rushed.

Suitability and Considerations for Travelers

This tour suits travelers who are comfortable with a full day of outdoor exploration and are interested in off-the-beaten-path locations. The physical demands are moderate—most stops involve walking, but no strenuous hikes are specified.

Weather can affect the experience; if canceled due to poor conditions, a full refund or rebooking is offered. As the tour operates in Iceland’s highlands, it is ideal for those who appreciate adventure, natural beauty, and history in a private setting.

Iceland’s Hidden Highlands in a Private Jeep: Final Thoughts

The Private Full-day Hidden Highlands Tour from Reykjavík offers a unique and personalized way to experience Iceland’s lesser-seen landscapes. Traveling in a 4×4 Jeep grants access to remote waterfalls, stunning canyons, and Viking history, making each stop both meaningful and visually striking. The expert guide, Luke, enhances the journey with photography and drone footage, adding a special touch to the adventure.

While the tour’s price point reflects its private and exclusive nature, it is well-suited for those seeking a tailored, off-the-beaten-path experience. The combination of natural beauty and cultural sites makes this an appealing option for travelers eager to discover Iceland’s secret spots beyond the usual tourist routes.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the tour and what is included?
The tour lasts approximately 11 hours, starting at 9:00 am from Hallgrimskirkja in Reykjavík. It includes private transportation in a Jeep 4×4, visits to multiple scenic stops, and photographs taken by the guide.

What is the price of the tour?
The cost is $1,000 per person, which covers the private experience, guide services, and all stops listed in the itinerary.

Is this tour suitable for all weather conditions?
Yes, but if canceled due to poor weather, a full refund or alternative date is offered. The tour operates only in good weather conditions, as it involves outdoor exploration.

Can I modify the itinerary?
Since it is a private tour, the guide can adapt the stops based on weather or your interests, providing a flexible and customized experience.

What makes this tour different from group trips?
The private Jeep and personalized guide ensure a less crowded, more flexible, and intimate experience, with the opportunity for professional photography that highlights your trip.

This comprehensive tour review highlights how the Private Full-day Hidden Highlands Tour stands out for its access to remote, breathtaking sites, guided by a professional who enhances the experience with photos and drone footage. It is a superb option for travelers looking to explore Iceland’s secret landscapes in comfort and style.