Photo by Þorleifur Eggertsson
Drive from hotel
3 hrs
Accessability
4×4 Car
Season
Summer
The mountain massif Kerlingarfjöll (The Giantess Mountains; 800 – 1500 m) is the main ornament in the chain of mountains and glaciers framing the Kjölur area. It covers about 150 km² area southeast of the Temple Glacier (Hofsjökull) close to the Keldur Road. The area is full of small steaming hot springs, mud pools and water fountains. It is truly a hiker’s paradise. It is one of the largest geothermal areas in all of Europe. It derives its name from a single, 25 m high and dark hyaloclastite pillar protruding from the light colored, rhyolite scree of the peak Kerlingartindur. The aforementioned types of rock represent the main structure of the mountain massif and this yellowish tint is the dominant color in the area.
FAQ about Kerlingarfjöll Mountains
On our social media channels we frequently post tips, tricks & fun facts about Iceland with the hashtag #knowIceland.
It is possible for experienced drivers to drive there in the summer time in 4×4 vehicles. We do highly recommend booking a tour with a local guide.
Kerlingarfjöll is made out of rhyolite, silica rich lava, rock. Most rhyolites are light gray to pinkish in color, but red or even black rhyolites are not rare. The bubbling hot springs have also scattered minerals onto rocks, painting them various shades of green, red, and yellow.
Distances from Kerlingarfjöll Mountains
It takes approximately 3 hrs. 30 min to drive from Hotel Rangá to Kerlingarfjöll. Only accessible in summer in 4×4 vehicles.
It takes approximately 4 hrs. 30 min to drive from Reykjavík to Kerlingarfjöll. Only accessible in summer in 4×4 vehicles.
