Sprengisandur – Echoes of the past
Ride the timeless route of Sprengisandur, bridging ancient paths and modern trails. In centuries past, travelers urged their horses to “sprengja” (gallop) across this vast desert‐like highland expanse to avoid meeting spirits or trolls giving the region its name.
Dates 2026
- Aug: 5 - 11 & 14 -21
Ride across Iceland on a journey that connects fertile valleys with the wild, untouched highlands. This unique tour takes you through landscapes shaped by fire and ice: lava fields, glacial rivers, hidden green oases, vast deserts of black sand, and natural hot springs.
Whether you begin in the south and ride north, or start in the north and head south, the route offers the same unforgettable highlights – from the lush farmlands of Þjórsárdalur and Skagafjörður to the raw wilderness between Hofsjökull, Vatnajökull, and Tungnafellsjökull glaciers. Along the way, we pass Iceland’s largest lake, Þórisvatn, ride through historical sites like Stöng and Gjáin, and rest in traditional mountain huts at Versalir, Nýidalur, Áfangagil, and Laugafell.
This is a true highland crossing – a ride into Iceland’s vast interior where nature rules. The days are filled with adventure on horseback, evenings with stories, food, and camaraderie in cozy huts, and unforgettable moments.
A demanding yet rewarding journey, this tour is perfect for riders who want to experience Iceland in its purest form – on horseback, side by side with a herd of free-running horses. Guðmundur Hólm, his family and friends operate this tour. His passion for great food and exceptional horses shines through in his tours.
Att. Departure Aug 5-11 from South to North and departure Aug 14 – 21 is from North to South has an extra first night.
Attention
- Individual travel insurance is not included in the travel price. We recommend that our customers take out appropriate travel insurance before visiting Iceland.
- Flight to and from Iceland is not included.
- Please bring your own sleeping bag with you on the tour.
- Bring bags instead of hardcover cases.
- Pack light as carrying space is limited.
Highlights
Stöng
Hidden in the beautiful Þjórsárdalur valley, not far from the mighty volcano Hekla, lies Stöng, a reconstructed Viking-age farm that offers a fascinating window into Iceland’s early history. The original farm was buried under volcanic ash during a powerful eruption of Hekla in 1104 and rediscovered centuries later, remarkably preserved beneath layers of tephra.
Þjórsárdalur
Tucked between the highlands and Iceland’s southern lowlands lies Þjórsárdalur, one of the country’s most diverse and beautiful valleys. Formed by centuries of volcanic activity and carved by glaciers, it’s a place where history, nature, and legend meet.
Laugafell
Nestled in the heart of Iceland’s vast highlands, Laugafell is a geothermal oasis surrounded by wide-open landscapes, rugged mountains, and endless silence. Laugafell is best known for its natural hot spring, a warm, soothing pool where travelers can bathe under the open sky after a long day of exploring or riding through the highlands.
Hofsjökull
Rising high in the center of Iceland, Hofsjökull — “the Temple Glacier” — is the country’s third-largest glacier and one of its most awe-inspiring natural landmarks. It lies between the great highland routes of Kjölur and Sprengisandur, surrounded by vast wilderness and untouched volcanic landscapes.
Sprengisandur
Sprengisandur is one of Iceland’s most famous and remote highland routes, stretching between the glaciers Hofsjökull and Vatnajökull. This vast, windswept desert of black sand and lava connects the north and south of the country, crossing the very heart of Iceland.
