8 months ago, Nov 3, 2023, Kathi and I were sitting on the couch at 10pm looking for something to watch on YouTube. This is the tour
Mon Jul 22 PDX 3:20pm -7h35m-> KEF 5:55am+1 Icelandair FI664
Thu Aug 01 KEF 4:50pm -8h05m-> PDX 5:55pm Icelandair FI665
$1,128.70 including baggage and meals
3VSZSQ
Car is Hyundai i10 Manual from Budget at the airport
Pickup 6:45am, drop off 5:00pm
$260 pay at the airport
Expedia itinerary number: 72843209719873
Jul 23 hotel: Guesthouse Sunna $182.76 Booking Number: 4769258943
Thórsgata 26, 101 Reykjavík, Iceland
Reykjavík→Reykhólar
Jul 24 hotel: Reykhólar Hostel $82 Booking Number: 4318190619
Reykjanesbraut, 251, Iceland dormitory bed
Reykhólar→Reykjavík
Jul 25 hotel: Grettir Guesthouse $120 Booking Number: 4655679962
Laugavegur 28a, 101 Reykjavík, Iceland
Jul 31 hotel: Guesthouse Sunna $ Booking Number: EJIA-4886613-W (booked directly on sunna.is) kr 19319 → USD $140.46 cheaper than Booking.com weeks ago
Thórsgata 26, 101 Reykjavík, Iceland
final night
Embark on a historic and scenic ride from our home base in Selfoss into the mountains. Our route will take us in the direction of Þórisvatn, Iceland’s largest lake. Along the way, we’ll explore several breathtaking waterfalls, including Hjálparfoss and Háifoss, which is the second-highest waterfall in the country.
As we delve deeper into the highlands, we’ll encounter a territory that defies description and can only be truly experienced. Our first day’s journey will conclude in a cozy mountain hut nestled at the foot of Europe’s largest glacier, Vatnajökull. There, we’ll prepare a delicious meal of fresh Icelandic fish or sweet steak, surrounded by some of the most awe-inspiring natural scenery in the world.
A fully-blasted day of adventure and unforgettable sights as we track on from Selfoss to Jökulheimar with Ride With Locals.
On day two, we’ll depart from the cozy mountain hut at Jökulheimar and journey through the Veiðivatnahraun lava field in the heart of Iceland’s highlands. Our route will take us toward the Veiðivötn lake area, a stunning highland oasis known for some of the best brown trout and arctic char fishing in the world.
Next, we’ll set our sights on Mt Hekla, one of Iceland’s most active volcanoes. In ancient times, Hekla was even referred to as “The Gateway to Hell.” As we traverse this idyllic paradise, you’ll discover firsthand the incredible beauty and diversity of Iceland on a motorcycle tour.
Our day’s ride will conclude at a charming mountain hut where we’ll spend the night, basking in the glow of a day full of adventure and unforgettable experiences.
On this day, we will venture into the heart of Iceland’s volcanic landscape, with its fascinating colors and shapes. As we ride, you’ll see how the volcanic activity has sculpted the terrain into craters and lava fields, creating a truly unique and otherworldly environment.
We’ll visit Mt Hekla, one of Iceland’s most active volcanoes, and hear stories of its eruptions over the centuries. We’ll also explore the stunning Ljótipollur and Hnausapollur volcano craters, with their bright turquoise waters and rugged surroundings.
As we continue on, our knowledgeable guides will share tales of the explorers of old and distant reaches of space, drawing connections to the unearthly landscapes surrounding us.
We’ll end the day at the Hungurfit Mountain Hut, a cozy and welcoming refuge in the midst of the highlands, where we’ll enjoy delicious Icelandic cuisine and unwind after a day of exploration.
The Fjallabak region, meaning “behind the mountains,” is a land of wild and rugged landscapes with deeply incised valleys. As we ride through this otherworldly terrain, it feels like being transported to a Lord of the Rings story. Our journey takes us to the geothermal hot pools of Landmannalaugar, where we can relax and soak in the naturally heated water, surrounded by stunning multicolored mountains. Continuing on, we’ll ride through the Tungnaá River and enjoy breathtaking views of the majestic Vatnajökull Glacier and Langisjór Lake.
Then, we’ll make our way down by the Skaftá River, passing by a volcanic fissure stretching from Mýrdalsjökull Glacier almost to Vatnajökull, and finally reaching the awe-inspiring Eldgjá canyon. This 60 km long, 600 m wide, and up to 150 m deep canyon was formed during one of the largest volcanic eruptions in Iceland’s history in the year 934. It’s a remarkable display of nature’s raw power and an unforgettable sight to behold.
Today we do not have to start the day taking everything together as we stay here another night. This day is one of the most incredible in the trip with several highlights that will leave you breathless. One of the highlights is Eldgjá, a canyon that was formed during one of the largest volcanic eruptions in Iceland’s history. It’s about 60 km long, 600 m wide, and up to 150 m deep. The beauty of Eldgjá is unparalleled, with towering cliffs and a volcanic landscape that looks otherworldly.
Another highlight of the day is Langisjór Lake, one of the most remote and stunningly beautiful lakes in Iceland. The lake is about 20 km long and up to 2 km wide, and its crystal-clear waters reflect the surrounding mountains and glaciers. The lake is located in the Fjallabak Nature Reserve, an area known for its rugged and dramatic landscapes.
Breiðbakur Mountain is another sight that will take your breath away. This majestic mountain is located in the heart of the Fjallabak Nature Reserve and offers stunning panoramic views of the surrounding area. At 857 meters above sea level, it’s a challenging climb, but the reward is worth it.
Last but not least, Blautulón Lake is a stunningly beautiful oasis in the middle of the barren Icelandic highlands. The lake is known for its vibrant blue color, which is caused by the high concentration of minerals in the water. It’s a perfect spot for a refreshing dip, and the views are nothing short of breathtaking.
These are just a few of the highlights that await you on this incredible day. So, rev up the bike, get in the groove, ride out, and let the magic of Iceland’s natural beauty unfold before your eyes.
As the adventure nears its end, we’ll take you on a journey through the breathtaking Fjallabak region, where you’ll encounter some of the most stunning landscapes in Iceland. On this final leg of the tour, we’ll explore the highlights of the region, including the magnificent Mýrdalsjökull glacier, the majestic Mælifell volcano mountain, the vast Mælifellssandur black sand plains, and the awe-inspiring Markafljót canyon.
The last day also offers a unique experience as we’ll take you on an amazing mountain road that’s not commonly traveled by most people. Known as Öldufellsleið, the road connects Skaftártungur and Rangárvelli, and offers breathtaking views of the famous Mýrdalsjökull and Eyjafjallajökull glaciers. As we ride behind the Mýrdalsjökull, we’ll pass through the beautiful black desert and witness the splendor of the stunning Mælifell volcano mountain.
From there, we’ll continue the last steps of our journey by exploring the natural wonder of Markarfljótsgljúfur canyon, before heading to our final stop in Selfoss. Along the way, we’ll ride through the desolate and lonesome Emstrur area, which is both eye-catching and uncanny.
As we bring this epic adventure to a close, we know that the memories and experiences you’ve gained on this tour will stay with you for a lifetime.
Paperwork:
* passport
* euro cash
* one paperback book to read
On the bike:
* phone mount (I use this for Google maps)
* 2 straps
* giant-loop duffel bag that can be tied on the seat behind me
* small, light day backpack
Crash gear:
* Aerostich suit
* Helmet
* Boots (wear on the plane)
* Ear plugs (several sets)
* Elkskin Gloves (regular)
* Elkskin gauntlet gloves (cold weather)
* waterproof socks
* Rain gear
* glove covers
* Boot covers
* Rain pants
* Rain jacket/ windbreaker
Clothing:
* socks and underwear for 7 days
* bathing trunks
* 2 T-shirts short sleeve + 1 T-shirt long sleeve
* jeans 1 pair (wear on the plane along with one of those T-shirts)
* light walking shoes
* compression socks
Cold gear:
* Warm zip-over pants
* Fleece sweater 1
* Puffy vest
* Long wool socks x2
* 32° under pants and shirt set
* long sleeve T-shirt
* 2nd set of long underwear
Toiletries bag:
* toothbrush, tooth paste, small shampoo
* bite guard
* hair brush
* ziploc bag of emergency toilet paper
* ziploc bag of laundry detergent
* clothesline and clips
* USB charger for toothbrush
Med kit:
* aspirin
* allergy meds (sudafed)
* anti diarrheal
* cough suppressant
Electronics:
* extension cord with socket multiplexor and USB ports
* EU plug adapter
* small laptop, charger, wireless mouse
* USB A-C cables x 2
* wireless charger
* USB power pack
* prep OSMAnd with maps of planned route
* insta360, and accessories
On the plane:
* wireless headphones
* eye mask
* compression socks