5.0

The 3 Peaks Challenge in Iceland

  • Iceland
  • 5 nights

An otherworldly summit-bagging expedition amidst epic scenery in the land of fire and ice

What's Included?

  • Activities & Certified Guides

    All itinerary activities with local, expert mountaineering guides
  • Hotel

    5 nights in cosy 3-star hotels
  • Meals

    All breakfasts are included
  • Transfers

    Pick up and drop off at your accommodation in Reykjavik, and everything in between
  • Equipment

    All your climbing equipment
  • Small Like-minded Groups

    Solo-friendly by design, join our small n’ sociable groups of up to 12 like-minded, active and outdoorsy people
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Tales from the trails

Real people, real adventures.

Learn how to use ice axes, ropes and crampons as you clamber to Vörðuskeggi Peak (805m) and climb the infamous Eyjafjallajökull volcano (1651m)

Tackle a lung-busting ascent in the Vatnajökull National Park to the snow-encrusted summit of Iceland's highest peak, Hvannadalshnúkur (2110m)

Wonder at Iceland's classic sights between summits - spectacular geysers, thundering waterfalls and the Jökulsárlón glacial lagoon

Olena S.(June 2025)
Incredible adventure with great organization!
Incredible adventure with great organization!
Incredible adventure with great organization!
Incredible adventure with great organization!
Incredible adventure with great organization!
Incredible adventure with great organization!

Together with a group of 10 people I experienced the 3 Peaks Challenge in Iceland. The highlight of the journey was definitely the ascent to the highest summit of Iceland - Hvannadalsnúkur (2100m).

Unfortunately though, due to extreme wind we couldn’t climb the second summit - Eyafjallajökull. But the guide and the organizing company were quick on our feet, offered a very pleasant change of program and kept us happy.

Much recommended Much Better Adventures! ☺️

Hillary B.(June 2025)
Best way to see Iceland!

I found this trip to be the perfect mix of adventure, sightseeing, fun with the group, and learning. Jon was a fantastic guide in that he kept us safe on the mountain, came up with fun alternate plans when we had a horrible day of weather, and that he taught us about the Icelandic culture. I really enjoyed the summit of Hvannadalshnjúkur- it was not as steep as some of the other mountains I've climbed, but was a very long day with a lot of elevation. The group I was with was so much fun and made this trip special. Food and lodging were better than expected. Overall really well planned.

Bilal K.(June 2024)
Once in a lifetime experience!

Wonderful itinerary for the trip; however, unfortunately we were not able to climb the highest peak due to weather. Though, our guide Jon more than made up for the loss and we did two wonderful alternative hikes. Jon was excellent as a guide--kind, caring, and very informative.

Iceland is one of the most beautiful countries--would highly recommend

Philip(May 2024)
Highlight after Highlight
Highlight after Highlight
Highlight after Highlight
Highlight after Highlight

This trip was simply unreal, covering a large portion of the south coast of Iceland. Its difficult to pick out a single highlight on this trip as it was simply highlight after highlight with a packed out itinerary. Its rated as tough with long mountaineering days but if you've done the training you'll really enjoy this adventure, but if you're unsure and are only starting to get into mountaineering the Summit Ben Nevis & Lean Winter Skills is a great option to prepare for this.

We got excellent weather conditions when climbing Hvannadalshnjúkur and standing on-top of the highest point of Iceland was such an accomplishment.

Our main guide Jon, support guides Kaspar & Soffia were very professional and are such a great team to have on the mountains. Also, the accommodation, food and transport was some of the best I've experienced.

So glad I booked this one, new mountaineering friends and great memories! :)

Alex(May 2023)
What an amazing trip. The scenery in Icelan...
What an amazing trip. The scenery in Icelan...
What an amazing trip. The scenery in Icelan...

What an amazing trip. The scenery in Iceland is absolutely stunning. Guides were friendly, knowledgeable and helpful. Accommodation and food were excellent. Unfortunately we were not able to climb the highest mountain due to really bad weather but the 2nd peak was a decent challenge and we put in a few extra hikes. Overall an epic adventure.

David(May 2023)

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Lisa(May 2023)
If you’re looking for adventure combined wi...
If you’re looking for adventure combined wi...

If you’re looking for adventure combined with stunning scenery - sign up now. Iceland absolutely blew us away with its endless lava fields, black sandy beaches, icebergs, geysers, waterfalls and breathtaking mountains. We had the trip of a lifetime.

Itinerary

  1. Day 1

    Welcome to Reykjavik

    Show Day 1 detail

    Head to Iceland’s capital Reykjavik. After checking into your guesthouse, set off and explore the city’s huge array of quaint bars, cafes, art museums and churches.

    Day 2

    Vörðuskeggi Peak and classic Iceland sights

    Hiking
    7-8hrs · 13.5km · 735m up · 740m down
    Hotel
    Twin share
    Breakfast included
    Show Day 2 detail

    Your guides will pick you up at your accommodation in Reykjavik at 08:00 and drive you east,  to the Hengill volcano massif. Get stuck into the challenge straight away with a climb up Vörðuskeggi Peak (805m). From the top you can see Lake Þingvellir and Langjökull to the north, as well as Eyjafjallajökull and the distant Westman Islands. Later in the day, you'll catch some of Iceland's famous sights - the geothermal area at Geysir and the waterfall of Gullfoss - before driving to your hotel in the area of Flúðir.

    Day 3

    Summit Eyjafjallajökull

    Hiking
    9-11hrs · 17km · 1600m up · 1600m down
    Hotel
    Twin share
    Breakfast included
    Show Day 3 detail

    Fuel up on breakfast at the hotel before setting off to climb the infamous Eyjafjallajökull – best known for erupting in 2010 and causing enormous disruption to air travel across western and northern Europe for several days. It is a 1651m high stratovolcano with a magnificent view from the top. The ascent is a doozy – expect around 1600m of elevation and 9-12 hours of pure Icelandic wilderness hiking and climbing.

    Day 4

    Explore Iceland's south coast

    Hotel
    Twin share
    Breakfast included
    Show Day 4 detail

    Take a day away from the peaks and rest the legs a little, as you explore the beautiful south coast. Head to the black beach of Reynisfjara, the picturesque village of Vík and into Skaftafell National Park to see the stunning glacier lagoon at Jökulsárlón. Enjoy dinner and an early night at your hotel – the trip's biggest challenge awaits you tomorrow...

    Day 5

    Iceland's highest peak

    Hiking
    12-14hrs · 22km · 2040m up · 2040m down
    Hotel
    Twin share
    Breakfast included
    Show Day 5 detail

    Today is the big one as you make the ascent of Hvannadalshnúkur (2110m) – Iceland’s highest peak. Make no mistake, this is a seriously tough summit: with 2000m of ascent, it can take 12-14 hours (though there are plenty of daylight hours this far north in summer). Your guides will assist with the technical sections and show you how to safely use ice axes and ropes when needed – you will have had ample tuition and preparation on the previous days. The peak of Hvannadalshnúkur is on the north-western rim of the Öræfajökull volcano and promises an unforgettable ascent, with breathtaking panoramic views. Celebrate your achievement back at the hotel with a well-earned beer and dinner, before you collapse into bed.

    Day 6

    Back to Reykjavik

    Breakfast included
    Show Day 6 detail

    With three successful ascents under your belt, make your way back westward along the scenic south coast of Iceland, passing beneath Eyjafjallajökull and stopping to visit the Fjaðrárgljúfur canyon, as well as the waterfalls at Skógafoss and Seljalandsfoss. You'll arrive back in Reykjavík in the late afternoon, where you'll bid your guides farewell.

Getting There

Nearest airport
Reykjavik Airport (RKV)
Pick up
Reykjavik accommodation
Flexible - arrive any time on Day 1
Drop off
Reykjavik (your accommodation or the bus station)
17:00 on Day 6

What is and isn't included?

What's included

  • Guided ascent to the summit of Vörðuskeggi (805m)
  • Visits to the geothermal area at Geysir and the waterfall of Gullfoss
  • Guided ascent to the summit of Eyjafjallajökull (1651m)
  • Visits to Reynisfjara black beach, the village of Vík and the glacier lagoon at Jökulsárlón
  • Guided hike to the summit of Hvannadalshnúkur (2110m), Iceland's highest mountain
  • Visits to the Fjaðrárgljúfur canyon and the waterfalls at Skógafoss and Seljalandsfoss

  • Expert, local, English-speaking mountaineering guides

  • 5 nights in cosy 3-star hotels

  • 4 buffet-style breakfasts

  • All transfers during the trip, from your accommodation in Reykjavik to the end point in Reykjavik city centre

  • All climbing equipment

Where you'll stay

  • Reykjavik

  • Hotel Flúðir

  • Hotel Skógafoss

  • Hotel Skaftafell

What you'll eat

You'll fuel up each morning with breakfast buffets at the hotels, where cereals, fruit, pastries, bread, cheese, meats, jams, tea and coffee are on offer. You'll need to buy a packed lunch each day to take out on the summits with you - your host wi…

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DEPARTURE DATES

  • Sunday 24th May 2026

    to Friday 29th May 2026

    Fully Booked

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Optional Extras

Pre/Post Trip Accommodation

Double/Twin Room in Reykjavik: Prices starting from...
…/per night
Single Room in Reykjavik: Prices starting from...
…/per night

Single Occupancy

Optional Private Room Upgrade
…/per person

For solo travellers looking for their own space, an optional private room can be booked for an extra charge, see Optional Extras for the price. Please request this at the time of booking (this is subject to availability).

If you'd like to extend your stay in Iceland your host can also help to arrange extra nights' accommodation in Reykjavik before or after the tour (subject to availability). Prices are available on request from your host.


To request any extras, message your host via your Much Better Adventures account once you have booked your trip.

All extras must be paid before your trip starts.

Illustration of a group of people kayaking

GOT A GROUP OF 6 OR MORE?

Book the whole trip privately. We sort the details, you split the cost. Pure adventure, zero faff.

What to pack

Backpack with hiking gear laid out

Know before you go! Some stuff we'll provide, other things you'll need to bring.

FAQs

Tap water is perfectly safe to drink in Iceland. Bring along a bladder and/or water bottles to carry water with you on the summit days.

There are four centrally located places in Reykjavik where you can store luggage. Speak to your host about the options, or you can pre-book here.

Whilst most of our trips are exclusive to Much Better Adventures, due to the nature of this destination and the design of the trip, this particular host also sells this adventure via other channels. This means that it’s possible that your group may consist of people who haven't booked through the Much Better Adventures website. But rest assured, anyone booking this trip is in search of an active, outdoors adventure, just as you are!

At Much Better Adventures, we work hard to accommodate dietary requirements and allergies so your trip is safe, inclusive and enjoyable. That said, options can vary by country, location and accommodation, and in some places options may be limited or unavailable. The information below has been provided by your host so you’re fully informed about what will be possible on your trip depending on your individual requirements. This information should be read carefully prior to your trip to ensure that you are adequately prepared for the situation ‘on the ground’.

Once you have booked on your trip, please fill out your passenger information form asap with any dietary requirements. Once you complete your passenger information, your dietary needs and any allergies are automatically shared with your host and, in turn, your guide. Please submit this as early as possible so they can plan accordingly and deliver the best experience. Please also remind your guide about your dietary requirements upon arrival, as mentioning these in person allows your guide to comprehend individual preferences and limitations as soon as you arrive.

BACKGROUND

Icelandic cuisine is shaped by a subarctic climate, volcanic landscape and centuries of isolation, resulting in simple, resourceful dishes built around lamb, fish, dairy and preserved ingredients, with limited fresh produce historically available. Today, travellers with dietary requirements will find that accommodation providers and guides are generally accustomed to catering for a range of needs, especially on organised trips, though options can still be narrower in rural areas. It helps to plan ahead and communicate clearly, as meals may be pre-arranged, with your guide able to coordinate and manage requirements throughout the trip.

SPECIAL DIETS

Vegetarian Vegetarian diets are difficult to cater for on this trip. While your host will do their best to meet these requirements, please be aware that the required produce and ingredients are not abundant in this destination, and you may find the food provided repetitive. Please consider bringing your favourite snacks or food supplements from home to ensure that you always have enough fuel for your adventure.

Vegan Vegan diets are difficult to cater for on this trip. While your host will do their best to meet these requirements, please be aware that the required produce and ingredients are not abundant in this destination, and you may find the food provided repetitive. Please consider bringing your favourite snacks or food supplements from home to ensure that you always have enough fuel for your adventure.

Kosher Fully certified Kosher kitchens and supervision are rare and usually cannot be guaranteed unless expressly confirmed in advance by your host. Vegetarian or vegan options can often be the most reliable alternative if this is acceptable to you. Please read the related sections above.

Halal Certified Halal supply varies by destination and may not always be possible. Vegetarian or vegan options can often be the most reliable alternative if this is acceptable to you. Please read the related sections above.

INTOLERANCES

Gluten Free (for Coeliac, please see Allergies section below) Gluten-free diets are difficult to cater for on this trip. While your host will do their best to meet these requirements, please be aware that the required produce and ingredients are not abundant in this destination, and you may find the food provided repetitive. Please consider bringing your favourite snacks or food supplements from home to ensure that you always have enough fuel for your adventure.

Lactose-free Lactose-free diets can be catered for on this trip, provided that your host is made aware in advance. Please do consider bringing your favourite snacks or food supplements from home to ensure that you always have enough fuel for your adventure.

ALLERGIES

Our host has confirmed that they are able to accommodate mild allergies to the 14 allergens identified by the UK Food Standards Agency, where these are disclosed in advance. However, if you have a severe or life-threatening food allergy, please get in touch with our Customer Experience team prior to booking to discuss whether your requirements can be accommodated safely on this trip. This will allow us to carefully consider the sensitivity and severity of your allergy, the available provision on the trip and the accessibility of medical care should a reaction occur. Your safety is always our top priority.

Please note that when travelling overseas, local ingredients, food preparation methods and labelling standards may vary, particularly in remote areas. It is also worth noting that any allergies may result in more limited options and repetitive provision in some areas. Whilst your guide will help communicate dietary requirements where possible, customers remain responsible for managing their own allergies during the trip.

Sure can! Over 70% of our travellers travel solo, it’s a great way to meet like-minded people.

Our team of Adventure Hunters co-create exclusive adventures which are run by highly vetted, specialist hosts. The trip is run by our trusted host partner in the destination. We only work with independent, local, in-destination experts who know the very best places to explore and how to stay safe. Read more information about the local teams we partner with. You’ll be introduced to the host straight after making a booking via the Much Better Adventures platform.

Much Better Adventures refer to the UK Government’s official travel advice when designing trips and monitoring trip operations. We recommend that all customers are familiar with the practical information provided on the Government’s FCDO website, where current travel advice can be found by searching for the applicable destination(s).

For customers joining this trip from other international destinations – please also read the official travel advice applicable to your country of residence/origin, as this may differ.

We recommend checking out the country-specific information and also talking to a travel nurse.

We automatically convert prices from the local currency that a host receives to your chosen currency. We update our exchange rates on a daily basis so this does mean that prices displayed on the site are subject to currency fluctuations, which is why you may see them change over time.

If you wish to change the currency you pay in, head to the bottom of the page.

All of our group adventures are specially designed for adults to enjoy as we want these adventures to bring together outdoorsy people who are truly like-minded. You must be over 18 to join one of our trips.

You're always in good company on one of our adventures.

Our trips are typically made up of a mixture of solo travellers and small groups of 2 or 3 friends, with most in their 30s-50s.

Our sociable adventures are solo-friendly by design and naturally attract outdoorsy people with a shared mindset; a love for adventure, a desire to push themselves and meet awesome, like-minded people along the way. Check out our Community Values – a shared code to make sure that everyone's experience is safe, inclusive and brilliantly unforgettable.

It’s this camaraderie that has so often turned a great adventure into a life-changing one.

Don't just take our word for it:

  • 95% of people rate the group dynamics on our trips 5/5
  • 90% of people recommend joining a trip to make new friends
  • 75% of people have met people on our trips that they would now consider friends

See here for more info about the Much Better Adventures tribe.

As the old Icelandic saying goes, “If you don’t like the weather, wait 5 minutes.” Icelandic weather is famously fickle so you’ll need to prepare for anything - from balmy all-day sunshine in the mid-twenties, to wind, rain - and everything in between! This is all part of the adventure, but be sure to pack good waterproofs in case the rain gods come calling. At the higher altitudes you'll be reaching on this trip, the temperatures drop down to near freezing at times and the snow cover increases.

We partner with the World Land Trust to ensure this trip achieves Net-Zero emissions. We also support their Buy an Acre programme, helping local communities to buy and protect natural habitats in perpetuity.

What's the number?
It works out on average at 127kg of CO2 emissions per person, including all local transport, accommodation, food, activities, guides, staff and office operations.

The only thing it doesn’t include right now is flights and travel to the destination. We do make an overall estimate across all our customers separately, but as we don’t book flights, have customers from all corners of the world, and no way of reliably knowing their travel plans, we simply can’t include an individual number in the figure on display here. We’ve got a goal to fix that, so that when you book, there is a way to measure and mitigate the carbon emitted by your flight too.

But what does the number mean?
Yep, hard to picture eh? To give you an idea:

  • Driving 1000 miles/1609km would be approximately 281kg of CO2 in an average car (or 140.5kg per person, if there were two of you in it).
  • A return economy class flight between London and New York would be approximately 1619kg (1.66 tonnes) per person.
  • 10 trees in a temperate forest are estimated to remove approximately 250kg of CO2 from the air in a period of 5-10 years.

What are we doing about it?
Our trips are relatively low-carbon by design, and we're working with all our hosts to develop long term carbon reduction plans. We partner with the World Land Trust to ensure this trip achieves Net-Zero emissions. We also support their Buy an Acre programme, helping local communities to buy and protect natural habitats in perpetuity, ensuring the protection of the reserve and its wildlife.

Want to know more?
Amazingly, no international travel company has ever publicly published their carbon measurements before, as far as we know. We believe that must change, quickly. So we’re openly sharing the method we used in the hope that other companies will be able to more easily follow suit and build on what we've done so far. You'll find it all here.

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