Hofsjökull
Iceland's Third Largest Ice Cap
Iceland's third largest ice cap sits in the heart of the Central Highlands, forming a massive dome of ice that feeds some of Iceland's most important glacial rivers including the Þjórsá — the country's longest river.
Glacier Facts
- Area: 925 km²
- Volume: 210 km³ of ice
- Shape: Nearly perfect dome
- Elevation: 450–1,765m
River Systems
- Feeds Iceland's longest river (Þjórsá)
- Source of Hvítá river system
- Multiple glacial rivers flow in all directions
- Critical for Iceland's hydroelectric power
A Perfect Dome of Ice
Hofsjökull's nearly symmetrical dome rises from the desolate Central Highlands, forming a striking white landmark visible from distant mountain roads. The glacier covers an active volcanic system that last erupted around 1,800 years ago.
As the source of Iceland's longest river, the Þjórsá, this remote ice cap plays a vital role in the country's freshwater supply and hydroelectric power generation.
Central Highlands Setting
Hofsjökull sits in Iceland's vast uninhabited interior, surrounded by volcanic deserts, ancient lava fields, and colorful rhyolite mountains. The area represents one of Europe's last true wilderness areas — a stark, beautiful landscape of black sand, ancient lava flows, and scattered oases of geothermal activity.
- Volcanic deserts stretching to horizons
- Ancient lava flows and volcanic cones
- Glacial rivers carving through landscapes
- Scattered geothermal areas
- Arctic highland climate with extreme weather variations
Kerlingarfjöll Mountains
The colorful rhyolite peaks of Kerlingarfjöll rise dramatically from Hofsjökull's edge, creating one of Iceland's most spectacular mountain landscapes.
- Rhyolite creates red, yellow, and orange colors; peaks rise to 1,477m
- Marked hiking trails through colorful peaks with mountain hut accommodation
- Hveradalir geothermal valley: hot springs, fumaroles, and natural hot pools
- Stunning glacier views from the ridgelines
Access Routes
- Kjölur Route (F35): Main highland road, no major river crossings
- Kerlingarfjöll (F347): Access to mountain area and hiking
- Sprengisandur (F26): Eastern approach
- All routes require 4x4 vehicles — open approximately June-September
- Kerlingarfjöll Mountain Resort and highland huts available for accommodation
Safety Information
Hofsjökull is only accessible via highland F-roads requiring 4x4 vehicles. The area is completely uninhabited and weather can change rapidly. Check road conditions at Road.is and register your travel plan at Safetravel.is before entering the highland interior.