ICELAND HIGHLANDS PHOTOGRAPHY TOUR

ICELAND

Beyond the Roads. Into the Wild.

DEPARTURE

July 25 – August 1, 2027

DURATION

8 DAYS

TOUR PRICE

€6,490 / person

Early Bird: Save €200 when you book by April 1, 2027.

GROUP SIZE

👥 3 Participants

ICELAND HIGHLANDS PHOTOGRAPHY TOUR

ICELAND

Beyond the Roads. Into the Wild.

DEPARTURE

July 25 – August 1, 2027

DURATION

8 DAYS

TOUR PRICE

€6,490 / person

Early Bird: Save €200 when you book by April 1, 2027

GROUP SIZE

👥 3

Iceland Photo Tour — Overview

Discover Iceland beyond the familiar routes on an exclusive 8-day photography journey through the remote Highlands, from July 25 to August 1, 2027.

From the colorful geothermal mountains of Kerlingarfjöll and Landmannalaugar to the volcanic craters of Lakagígar, the extraordinary landscapes of Mælifell and the hidden lakes of Veiðivötn, this tour takes you deep into Iceland’s wild interior. Vast lava fields, braided glacial rivers, dramatic waterfalls and ever-changing light create exceptional opportunities for landscape photography.

With a maximum of just three participants, flexible shooting schedules and a strong focus on exploring lesser-visited locations, this intimate photographic adventure is designed for those who want to experience and capture the raw beauty of Iceland’s Highlands.

Photography Highlights

Itinerary

Day 1 — Kerlingarfjöll & Hveradalir — Into the Highlands

Our Iceland Highlands photography adventure begins after breakfast, with a morning departure from the Reykjavík/Keflavík area into the remote interior of the island, leaving the familiar landscapes of the Ring Road behind.

Our first destination is Kerlingarfjöll, a spectacular geothermal mountain range known for its colourful rhyolite slopes, steaming valleys and dramatic volcanic terrain. We explore Hveradalir, where winding trails, geothermal steam and extraordinary textures create endless photographic opportunities.

With the flexibility of a small group, we take advantage of the evening light to photograph one of Iceland’s most remarkable Highland landscapes.

Overnight: Kerlingarfjöll area

Day 2 — Kerlingarfjöll Sunrise, Gjáin & Háifoss

We begin with another photography session in Kerlingarfjöll, capturing the geothermal mountains in the soft morning light before travelling south towards the Þjórsárdalur valley.

Along the way, we explore Gjáin, a secluded oasis of waterfalls, moss-covered rocks and small streams surrounded by volcanic formations.

The highlight of the afternoon is Háifoss, one of Iceland’s tallest waterfalls, plunging into a dramatic canyon. Its impressive scale, rugged cliffs and changing light offer outstanding opportunities for landscape photography.

Overnight: Hrauneyjar area

Day 3 — Veiðivötn: Volcanic Lakes & Craters

Today we venture into Veiðivötn, a remote volcanic region scattered with lakes, craters and dark lava formations.

This extraordinary landscape is defined by the contrast between black volcanic sand, still water and moss-covered hills. We explore the area at a relaxed photographic pace, searching for reflections, minimalist compositions and the subtle patterns shaped by Iceland’s volcanic history.

Far from the busy tourist routes, Veiðivötn offers an opportunity to experience the silence and isolation of the Highlands.

Overnight: Hrauneyjar area

Day 4 — Sigöldugljúfur & Landmannalaugar

Our day begins at Sigöldugljúfur, a striking volcanic canyon where numerous waterfalls descend into a turquoise river surrounded by dark rock formations.

We then continue to Landmannalaugar, one of Iceland’s most spectacular geological areas, famous for its multicoloured rhyolite mountains, lava fields and geothermal activity.

Here, we focus on the interplay of colour, texture and light, exploring viewpoints that reveal the remarkable shapes of the mountains. Weather and lighting conditions will guide our photography sessions throughout the day.

Overnight: Hrauneyjar area

Day 5 — Langisjór & the Southern F208

We leave Hrauneyjar and travel deeper into the southern Highlands towards Langisjór, a remote lake surrounded by volcanic mountains and vast wilderness.

The landscape here feels almost untouched, with sweeping views, dramatic ridgelines and striking contrasts between water, black sand and green moss.

Our journey continues along the southern F208, one of Iceland’s most scenic Highland routes. Depending on road conditions and available time, we may explore additional locations around Eldgjá, including Ófærufoss.

Overnight: Kirkjubæjarklaustur area

Day 6 — Mælifell: The Green Volcano

Today we explore one of the most extraordinary landscapes in Iceland: Mælifell, an isolated moss-covered volcanic cone rising from the black sands of Mælifellssandur.

Surrounded by glacial rivers, dark volcanic plains and distant ice-covered mountains, Mælifell offers exceptional photographic opportunities.

We dedicate time to exploring accessible viewpoints and photographing the striking contrast between the vivid green volcano and its dramatic surroundings. This is a day devoted to the raw beauty and immense scale of Iceland’s wilderness.

Overnight: Kirkjubæjarklaustur area

Day 7 — Lakagígar & Fagrifoss

Our final full photography day takes us into the remarkable volcanic landscape of Lakagígar, also known as the Laki Craters.

This extensive chain of volcanic craters is surrounded by vast lava fields, moss-covered formations and sweeping Highland scenery. We explore viewpoints that reveal the scale and geological character of this extraordinary region.

Along the route, we also visit Fagrifoss, a beautiful waterfall cascading into a rugged volcanic gorge. Its remote setting and dramatic surroundings provide a memorable conclusion to our Highland photography sessions.

Overnight: Kirkjubæjarklaustur area

Day 8 — Departure: Farewell to Iceland

After breakfast, we begin our return journey towards Keflavík International Airport, bringing our eight-day Iceland Highlands photography adventure to a close.

We expect to arrive in the Keflavík area during the afternoon, depending on weather, road conditions and travel time. If conditions allow, we may enjoy a few additional photography stops along the way.

After a week exploring remote volcanic landscapes, geothermal valleys, waterfalls and some of Iceland’s wildest scenery, we leave with unforgettable experiences and a collection of photographs from the heart of the Highlands.

End of the photography tour.


Important Note

This itinerary has been carefully designed to explore some of Iceland’s most remote and spectacular landscapes. However, travelling through the Highlands requires flexibility, as weather conditions, river crossings and mountain road accessibility can change unexpectedly.

The itinerary and photography locations may be adjusted when necessary, with safety always our first priority and the aim of making the most of the available light and photographic opportunities.

Price & Details

Meet your guide

Portrait of Federico Antonello, founder of OutdoorPhotoDream

Federico Antonello

Federico Antonello is an Italian landscape photographer, certified tour leader and hiking guide, and founder of OutdoorPhotoDream.

His passion for wild landscapes has taken him from the volcanic wilderness of Iceland and the fjords of Norway to Patagonia in Argentina and Chile, as well as the Italian Dolomites.

His photography has received international recognition, with exhibitions at the Eigenheim Gallery in Berlin and publications including The Great Photographers of the Dolomites.

Through OutdoorPhotoDream, Federico leads intimate photography tours focused on natural light, composition and authentic outdoor experiences, helping participants discover remarkable landscapes and develop their photographic vision.

Terms & Conditions

Included

  • 7 nights of accommodation in Iceland (shared double/twin rooms)
  • Daily breakfast included throughout the tour
  • Transportation throughout the tour, starting from a designated meeting point in the Reykjavík/Keflavík area.
  • Transportation in a specially modified 4×4 vehicle suitable for Iceland’s Highland roads.
  • Photography guidance and on-location support throughout the tour
  • Sunrise, sunset and flexible photography sessions, weather and accessibility permitting
  • Visits to the scheduled Highland photography locations, subject to road and weather conditions
  • Entrance, access and parking fees at scheduled photography locations, where applicable
  • English-speaking photography guidance
  • Local knowledge and assistance throughout the journey

Not Included

  • International flights to and from Iceland
  • Pre-tour and post-tour accommodation
  • Airport transfers outside the scheduled meeting and drop-off arrangements
  • Lunches, dinners and beverages, unless otherwise specified in the itinerary.
  • Single-room supplement, subject to availability
  • Travel insurance (strongly recommended, including medical expenses, evacuation and trip cancellation)
  • Visa fees, if applicable
  • Personal expenses and alcoholic beverages
  • Excess baggage fees
  • Laundry and other personal services
  • Optional activities not expressly included in the itinerary

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes! Our Iceland Highlands photography tour welcomes photographers of all experience levels, from beginners to advanced enthusiasts. With a maximum of just three participants, you’ll receive personalized guidance on camera settings, composition, exposure, and working with natural light.

While no advanced photography skills are required, participants should be comfortable walking on uneven terrain and exploring remote locations where weather conditions can change quickly. A reasonable level of mobility and an adventurous spirit are recommended.

Our Iceland Highlands photography tour is suitable for participants with a reasonable level of fitness and mobility. Most photography locations can be reached through short to moderate walks, although the terrain may be uneven, rocky, muddy or slippery.

Some locations, particularly the geothermal valleys of Kerlingarfjöll and the volcanic landscapes of Landmannalaugar, may involve uphill walking and steeper sections. Participants should feel comfortable exploring natural terrain and spending extended periods outdoors in changing weather conditions.

No technical hiking or mountaineering experience is required. However, sturdy waterproof hiking boots with good grip are strongly recommended. As we travel through remote areas of the Highlands, some days will also involve extended journeys on rough mountain roads in a 4×4 vehicle.

A DSLR or mirrorless camera with a wide-angle lens (such as 14–24mm or 16–35mm) is ideal for capturing the vast volcanic landscapes, colorful geothermal mountains, waterfalls, and dramatic scenery of the Icelandic Highlands.

A telephoto lens (such as 70–200mm or 100–400mm) is also highly recommended for isolating distant mountain formations, volcanic textures, and abstract landscape details. A sturdy tripod, polarizing filter, ND filters, spare batteries, and memory cards will help you make the most of the photographic opportunities.

As conditions in the Highlands can be unpredictable, reliable rain protection and a camera bag that protects your equipment from dust, wind, and moisture are essential. A drone can also be useful for aerial landscape photography, provided its use complies with local regulations and restrictions.

A detailed equipment checklist will be provided before departure.

Our Iceland Highlands Photography Tour is limited to just 3 participants, offering an exclusive and highly personalized small-group photography experience.

With such a small group, we can dedicate more time to individual photography guidance, explore remote volcanic landscapes at a comfortable pace, and remain flexible when adapting to changing weather, road conditions, and photographic opportunities.

This intimate group size is particularly valuable when traveling through Iceland’s remote Highlands, allowing for a more personal and immersive experience away from the usual tourist routes.

The tour includes 7 nights of accommodation in carefully selected properties, with daily breakfast included.

Accommodation is arranged in convenient areas along our route to provide access to the Icelandic Highlands while balancing travel distances and comfort.

Guests are accommodated in twin rooms with separate single beds and private bathrooms. Single-room accommodation may be available upon request, subject to availability and an additional supplement.

Full accommodation details will be provided before booking.

Exploring the Icelandic Highlands involves considerable driving, particularly when reaching remote destinations such as Mælifell, Langisjór, and Lakagígar.

Some days include several hours on mountain roads, where travel is considerably slower than on paved roads. We plan photography stops along the way whenever conditions and timing allow.

Our itinerary balances time in the field with the distances required to explore these extraordinary landscapes. Sunrise and sunset sessions are planned selectively rather than guaranteed every day.

Yes. Our Iceland Highlands Photography Tour explores remote areas accessible via mountain roads, known as F-roads. Some routes may involve rough volcanic terrain and river crossings, depending on the destination.

We use a suitable 4×4 vehicle for these conditions. Access to individual locations depends on road conditions, river levels, and weather, with safety always taking priority.

Traveling through these remote landscapes is an essential part of the Highlands experience.

Summer in the Icelandic Highlands brings long daylight hours and constantly changing weather conditions. During July and August, daytime temperatures often range between 5°C and 15°C, although colder conditions, strong winds, rain, and even occasional snowfall are possible at higher elevations.

The weather can change rapidly, particularly in remote mountain areas such as Kerlingarfjöll and Landmannalaugar. These conditions can also create extraordinary photographic opportunities, from dramatic clouds and mist-covered mountains to beautiful light illuminating Iceland’s colorful volcanic landscapes.

We recommend dressing in layers and bringing waterproof and windproof clothing, warm gloves, a hat, and sturdy waterproof hiking boots. Being prepared for different weather conditions will help you stay comfortable throughout the journey.

Sunrise and sunset photography may be part of our Iceland Highlands Photography Tour, depending on weather conditions, travel distances, and the daily itinerary.

During late July and early August, Iceland offers exceptionally long daylight hours, providing extended opportunities to photograph its volcanic landscapes, colorful mountains, waterfalls, and remote wilderness.

While we always aim to take advantage of beautiful natural light, our itinerary also involves considerable driving on remote Highland roads. Photography sessions are therefore planned with a balance between photographic opportunities, travel time, and the overall comfort of our small group.

Our flexible approach allows us to make the most of the conditions without following a rigid sunrise and sunset schedule.

During late July and early August, Iceland experiences exceptionally long daylight hours, with extended twilight and very short nights. Although the true Midnight Sun occurs earlier in summer, the lingering evening light creates remarkable opportunities for landscape photography.

Our Iceland Highlands photography tour takes advantage of these conditions, allowing us to explore remote volcanic landscapes, colorful geothermal mountains, and waterfalls during the beautiful light of the late evening and early morning.

With flexible photography schedules and a maximum of three participants, we can make the most of Iceland’s extraordinary summer light.

Weather conditions in the Icelandic Highlands can change rapidly, even during summer. Strong winds, heavy rain, fog, high river levels, or temporary closures of mountain roads (F-roads) may affect access to certain photography locations.

Safety is always our priority. If a planned route or destination becomes unsafe or inaccessible, we will adjust the itinerary and explore alternative locations whenever possible.

Our small group of just three participants allows us to remain flexible and adapt to changing weather, road conditions, and photographic opportunities. While we aim to visit all the locations described in the itinerary, access to specific destinations cannot be guaranteed.

Important Information

This small-group Iceland Highlands photography tour welcomes photographers of different experience levels, from enthusiastic beginners to experienced landscape photographers.

With a maximum of just three participants, the tour offers personalized photographic guidance and plenty of opportunities to develop your skills while exploring some of Iceland’s most remote and spectacular landscapes.

Guidance during the tour may include:

  • Camera settings and exposure techniques
  • Landscape composition and creative perspectives
  • Long-exposure photography of waterfalls and rivers
  • Using filters and tripods effectively
  • Photographing volcanic landscapes, textures, and natural patterns
  • Working with changing weather and natural light

Our focus is on making the most of each location, with time to explore different compositions and develop your own photographic vision.

A basic understanding of your camera is recommended, along with a sturdy tripod. Advanced photography experience is not required.

This Iceland Highlands photography tour requires a reasonable level of physical fitness and a sense of adventure. Most photography locations can be reached through short to moderate walks, although some areas involve uneven volcanic terrain, loose rocks, steep sections, or potentially muddy and slippery paths.

Participants should be comfortable walking while carrying their photography equipment and spending extended periods outdoors in remote environments. Weather conditions in the Icelandic Highlands can change rapidly, even in summer, with strong winds, rain, and cold temperatures.

The itinerary also involves several hours of driving on remote Highland roads, sometimes over rough terrain. No advanced hiking experience is required, but sturdy waterproof hiking boots, appropriate outdoor clothing, and a reasonable level of mobility are strongly recommended.

Walking distances and photography locations may be adjusted according to weather, road conditions, and the group’s abilities, with safety always taking priority.

Our Iceland Highlands photography tour takes us through remote areas accessible via mountain roads (F-roads), where driving conditions can be challenging.

Some routes involve rough gravel tracks, river crossings, and long driving distances. Access to locations such as Mælifell, Langisjór, Veiðivötn, and Lakagígar depends on road conditions, weather, and local restrictions.

Although the tour takes place during summer, access to specific locations cannot be guaranteed. If necessary, the itinerary will be adjusted to ensure safety while offering alternative photography opportunities whenever possible.

Drone photography can offer extraordinary perspectives of Iceland’s volcanic landscapes, braided rivers, and remote Highland scenery.

Participants wishing to bring a drone are welcome to do so, provided they comply with Icelandic and applicable European aviation regulations, local restrictions, and any required permits.

Drone flights are not permitted in all locations and may be restricted in protected areas. Flying opportunities also depend on weather conditions and safety considerations.

Participants are responsible for ensuring that their drone operations comply with all applicable regulations.

The Iceland Highlands Photography Tour requires a minimum of 2 participants to operate, with a maximum group size of 3. If the minimum number is not reached, participants will be notified at least 60 days before departure and all payments received for the tour will be fully refunded.

The itinerary is designed to explore some of Iceland’s most remote and spectacular volcanic landscapes. However, access to certain locations depends on weather conditions, mountain road accessibility, river levels, and other safety considerations.

The itinerary may therefore be adjusted due to:

  • Weather and visibility conditions
  • F-road closures or restrictions
  • River crossings and changing water levels
  • Seasonal accessibility of remote locations
  • Safety and logistical considerations

Our priority is to provide the best possible photography experience while ensuring the safety and comfort of all participants.

The tour focuses on photographic opportunities rather than rigid sightseeing schedules. Specific locations, routes, and photography sessions may be modified or replaced when conditions require.

To secure your place on the Iceland Highlands Photography Tour, a 30% deposit of the total tour price is required upon booking confirmation.

The remaining balance must be paid no later than 60 days before departure. For bookings confirmed within 60 days of departure, full payment is required at the time of confirmation.

With a maximum of just 3 participants, reservations are handled on a first-come, first-served basis, subject to availability.

Payment instructions and the applicable booking terms and conditions, including the identity of the responsible licensed tour operator, will be provided before any payment is requested.

Our photography tours may be organized in collaboration with different licensed tour operators, depending on the destination. Cancellation and refund conditions may therefore vary between tours.

The following cancellation fees are provided as a general reference. The specific conditions applicable to the Iceland Highlands Photography Tour will be communicated before booking confirmation.

Cancellation by the Participant

Cancellation requests must be submitted in writing by email.

Cancellation before departure Indicative cancellation fee
60 days or more 30% of the total tour price
59–31 days 70% of the total tour price
30 days or less 100% of the total tour price

Cancellation fees are subject to the confirmed booking conditions and applicable law, including any statutory rights to cancel without fees.

Booking Transfers

If you are unable to attend, you may be able to transfer your booking to another eligible participant, subject to applicable law and the tour operator’s conditions.

Cancellation by the Organizers

If the tour is cancelled by the organizers, including because the minimum number of participants is not reached, participants will receive the refunds required under applicable travel regulations and the confirmed booking conditions.

Travel Insurance

Comprehensive travel insurance, including trip cancellation, medical expenses, emergency evacuation, and travel disruption coverage, is strongly recommended, particularly when traveling through Iceland’s remote Highlands.

The full cancellation and refund conditions will be provided before any payment is requested.

Registration for the Iceland Highlands Photography Tour 2027 remains open until all 3 available places are filled, subject to accommodation and logistical availability.

Due to the extremely limited group size and the challenges of organizing travel through Iceland’s remote Highlands, early booking is strongly recommended.

Participants will receive detailed pre-departure information, including meeting arrangements, recommended photography equipment, clothing, and practical travel guidance, well before the tour begins.

Why Travel Together

Photography, guiding and local expertise — brought together in one premium outdoor experience.

Award-Winning Photography

Learn from an award-winning landscape photographer with years of experience exploring and photographing extraordinary landscapes.

Certified Hiking Guide (GAE)

Travel with confidence alongside a Certified Hiking Guide & Licensed Tour Leader, ensuring safety, local expertise and professional guidance.

Private & Small Groups Only

Enjoy a more personal experience with small groups, flexible itineraries and plenty of time to explore and photograph at your own pace.

Tailored Around Weather & Light

Benefit from flexible itineraries adapted to weather, mountain conditions and the best available light for every photographic opportunity.

Professional Liability Insurance

Travel with a qualified professional covered by liability insurance, providing additional peace of mind throughout your outdoor experience.

What people say

Feedback from past tour participants