Experiences › Wandermut

Iceland Tour (Westfjords)

Two weeks self-sufficient through the Icelandic Westfjords. Schedule, travel, route, packing list, and safety briefing for the Wandermut Iceland Tour — compact and honest.

Duration
12 days
Distance
up to 20 km/day
Region
Westfjords, Iceland
Start
Ísafjörður
Level
challenging
Iceland Tour (Westfjords)

At a glance

Overview
01

The Schedule

Around 12 days from Ísafjörður to Reykjavik. Example: tour from 07/02 to 07/13/2026.

Arrival dayMeet in the fishing village of Ísafjörður (by 3 pm)
Day 1Transfer to Kaldálón
Days 2–11Trek through the Westfjords
Day 12Bus transfer from Hólmavík to Reykjavik
Day 13Earliest possible return flight from Reykjavik
Plan in buffer days. Weather-related flight cancellations happen spontaneously in the Westfjords. Plan 1–2 buffer days.
02

Getting There

Discord Group

Around two months before the start, Wandermut opens a private group. There you'll coordinate travel, flights, and accommodation with the team, and get to know your team leader and fellow travelers.

Flight

Fly into KEF in Keflavík (from ~€250), then take a domestic flight to Ísafjörður from RKV (~€100–150, about 2x/day). Alternatively, rent a car from Keflavík (5–6 hour drive), which is more reliable in case of sudden weather changes.

Accommodation

Recommendation: Guesthouse Gamla Gistihúsið in Ísafjörður, or alternatively the campsite. The first night's stay after the tour is included.

On Site

A small piece of luggage (carry-on size) can be stored with our partner in Ísafjörður and taken on the bus to Reykjavik. Larger items you store yourself in Reykjavik.

03

Area and Route

The route leads through the lower part of the northern tip of the Westfjords. Every morning we break camp, shoulder our packs, and head out through one of the wildest regions on the island: steep cliffs, a rugged ocean, landscapes almost impossible to put into words.

This route can only be completed together — everyone pitches in along the way.

04

Special Notes

Physical Preparation

Hike regularly beforehand with weight on your back. Rule of thumb: if you can hike 20 km a day with 23 kg over two weeks, you shouldn't have any trouble.

Weight of Your Gear

Total weight 20–25 kg: personal gear ~14 kg, food ~5 kg, tent ~2.5 kg, cooking equipment ~0.5 kg.

05

Next Steps

Invitation to the Discord Group

About 2 months beforehand, you'll get to know your team and team leader. All your questions get answered here.

Gear Up

Go through the packing list, get anything you're missing, and share tips within the group.

Protect Yourself

Read the safety briefing and take out insurance.

Book Your Flights

With 1–2 buffer days before and after the tour.

06

The Packing List

Less is more. Below is the gear that has proven itself. Brands are experience-based recommendations, not requirements — links are affiliate recommendations.

What Wandermut Takes Care Of

  • Tentsincluded
  • Local guidesincluded
  • Bus transferincluded
  • GPS devicesincluded
  • Satellite phoneincluded
  • First-aid kitincluded
  • Full mealsincluded
  • Cooking utensilsincluded

Basic Gear

  • Backpack 75–100 l
  • Drybags (important!)
  • Synthetic sleeping bag, comfort rating −10 °C
  • Inflatable sleeping pad
  • 1 water bottle (local sources available)

Clothing (Layering System)

  • Thermal underwear, 2 sets (merino)
  • Fleece + down/PrimaLoft jacket
  • Rain- and windproof jacket + pants
  • Beanie + gloves (thin & thick)
  • 2–3 pairs of hiking socks

Footwear

  • Warm, waterproof hiking boots, category B/C
  • Sandals/water shoes for river crossings
  • Gaiters (waterproof)

Other Items

  • Trekking poles + rubber tips
  • Leukotape for blister prevention
  • Sunscreen + lip balm
  • Sleep mask (little to no darkness)
  • Microfiber towel
07

Safety Briefing

These rules are based on experience from many tours and the knowledge of our local guides. The team leader will explain them at the start of the trip. Please follow them — they protect the whole group.

General Rules on Tour

Stick together: no one hikes far ahead or falls behind alone; the group does not split up.
Communication: tell the team leader right away — even about minor complaints.
Avoid unnecessary injury risks: step carefully, no climbing or risky games.
Hygiene: "Cook it, peel it, fry it or forget it." Wash your hands before every meal.
Keep your distance from wildlife and unfamiliar plants.
Leave no trace: no litter, no campfires.
Alcohol is prohibited and can result in exclusion from the tour.

Special Rules for This Tour

Insufficient fitness can cause a leg of the trip to fail and end the tour early.
Strong wind and rain combined with inadequate gear can quickly lead to hypothermia.
Steep slopes and occasional crevasses pose a risk of falling.
Falling rocks are possible in steep terrain.
Wet clothing lowers body temperature significantly.
Iceland means sudden weather changes: strong gusts, heavy rain, hail, snow.
Glacial rivers with strong currents and very cold water carry a risk of slipping and falling.

Frequently asked questions

Do I need to filter the water in Iceland?

Usually not — we draw it straight from the springs. A bottle or a hydration bladder is enough.

How heavy will my backpack be?

20–25 kg, more like 25 at the start, 20 towards the end. A 75–100-l backpack with a good carrying system is a must.

How do I get to Ísafjörður?

Flight to Keflavík, then a domestic flight from Reykjavik or a rental car (5–6 h). Flights can be cancelled at short notice due to weather.

What clothing is off-limits?

Cotton and jeans — they soak through and dry slowly. Go for breathable material and the layering principle.

Is catering included?

Yes, Wandermut covers full catering during the tour, as well as tents, guides, and bus transfer.

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