Mount Esja
Iconic volcanic mountain near Reykjavik, offering stunning panoramic views and rewarding hiking trails for all levels.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Best light & fewer crowds
Mount Esja
Best Time
Best light & fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Iconic volcanic mountain near Reykjavik, offering stunning panoramic views and rewarding hiking trails for all levels.
"Non-stop gorgeous views the entire hike, even with challenging winds!"
🥾 Sturdy Hiking Boots Essential
Don't underestimate the terrain! Good grip is crucial for safety, especially on the descent.
🧥 Layer Up for All Weather
Iceland's weather changes fast. Pack layers to adapt to sun, rain, and wind.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Steinn (The Stone)
Mid-point of the main trail
A popular resting spot offering rewarding panoramic views of Reykjavik and the surrounding coastline.
Summit Views
Mount Esja summit (914m)
Conquer the peak for unparalleled 360-degree vistas of Iceland's dramatic landscapes. A true accomplishment!
The Hike Itself
Various trails
Experience the thrill of ascending this iconic volcanic mountain with well-maintained paths and stunning scenery.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Best Footwear for Esja
Weather Preparedness is Key
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Help!
🥾 Sturdy Hiking Boots Essential
Don't underestimate the terrain! Good grip is crucial for safety, especially on the descent.
🧥 Layer Up for All Weather
Iceland's weather changes fast. Pack layers to adapt to sun, rain, and wind.
Mount Esja this weekend?
Mount Esja, easy day hike , 25 minutes from Reykjavik
💧 Bring Plenty of Water
Stay hydrated on your climb. Springs are available, but carrying your own is recommended.
🚶♀️ Consider Hiking Poles
Especially helpful for the steeper sections and the slippery descent.
Mt. Esja, overlooking Reykjavik, Iceland.
Tips
from all over the internet
🥾 Sturdy Hiking Boots Essential
Don't underestimate the terrain! Good grip is crucial for safety, especially on the descent.
🧥 Layer Up for All Weather
Iceland's weather changes fast. Pack layers to adapt to sun, rain, and wind.
💧 Bring Plenty of Water
Stay hydrated on your climb. Springs are available, but carrying your own is recommended.
🚶♀️ Consider Hiking Poles
Especially helpful for the steeper sections and the slippery descent.
📸 Capture the Views
Stop often to soak in the non-stop gorgeous views all around.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Mount Esja is lauded for its breathtaking views and rewarding hiking experience, with many visitors reaching Steinn and feeling a great sense of accomplishment. While generally accessible, some find the final ascent to the summit challenging, recommending caution and proper gear for the steeper, potentially slippery sections. The rapidly changing weather is a common theme, adding to the adventure for many.
"Fantastic hiking trail with breathtaking views. Can be a little difficult for a novice like me, and indeed I could only make it up to the second highest point, called Steinn. The last leg to the summit is quite steep so I recommend a little more experience and at the very least, good hiking poles. And I advise caution as you go back down, the rocks can be quite slippery. But it was awesome overall, and I highly recommend stopping frequently to just take a look around."
Ayon Ibrahim
"Very pretty hiking trip from us as first timers. We passed the Steinn point and got to the top at 792m and felt very proud and happy, as we never did hiking before. And as we are from the very flat Denmark, 792m is huge 😉
During the walk we enjoyed the amazing and pretty view all around us, drank water from the many springs, ate our sandwich, enjoyed the rapidly changing weather, from high sun to pretty sunny, no wind to strong wind. All on all, we recommend this when you stay at Iceland."
Allan Woods
"Nice hike near Reykiavik, not difficult with nice view"
Adrian Masny
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Mount Esja is easily accessible from Reykjavik. You can drive there in about 20-30 minutes. Alternatively, public bus routes connect Reykjavik to the base of the mountain, making it a convenient option for those without a car.
Yes, there is a parking area at the trailhead for Mount Esja. It's usually sufficient for most visitors, but can get busy during peak times.
Taxis and rideshares are available from Reykjavik, but they can be more expensive than public transport or driving yourself. It's a good option if you prefer direct transport.
Driving is the most straightforward. If using public transport, research bus routes that go near the Esja mountain area and be prepared for a short walk to the actual trailhead.
Yes, many tour operators in Reykjavik offer guided hikes to Mount Esja, which can be a great option for first-time visitors or those who prefer to hike with a group.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, hiking Mount Esja is free! There are no entrance fees or tickets required to access the trails.
Mount Esja is open 24/7, as it's a natural outdoor area. However, it's best to hike during daylight hours for safety and visibility.
There is no admission fee for Mount Esja. Access to the hiking trails is completely free for everyone.
Summer offers the most stable weather, but spring and autumn can also be beautiful. Weekends and midday are busiest; consider weekdays for fewer crowds.
Generally, there are no specific restrictions, but always be mindful of the weather conditions and practice Leave No Trace principles.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The time varies greatly depending on your fitness level and how far you go. Reaching Steinn can take 1-2 hours, while the summit might take 3-4 hours round trip.
The hike to Steinn is moderately challenging. The final ascent to the summit is steep and can be difficult for novice hikers.
There are basic facilities at the trailhead, including restrooms. Once on the trail, amenities are limited, so come prepared.
The lower parts of the trail, up to Steinn, are manageable for beginners. The summit requires more experience and stamina.
Wear sturdy hiking boots with good grip, comfortable clothing in layers, and bring a waterproof jacket.
📸 📸 Photography
Everywhere! The views from Steinn are iconic, but the entire trail offers stunning vistas of Reykjavik and the coastline. The summit provides breathtaking panoramas.
Golden hour, just after sunrise or before sunset, offers beautiful light. Midday can be harsh, but the expansive views are still impressive.
Drone regulations can vary. It's advisable to check current Icelandic drone laws and regulations before flying.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the sweeping landscapes. A sturdy tripod can be useful for low-light conditions or long exposures.
Don't miss the panoramic views from Steinn, the dramatic coastline, and the city skyline of Reykjavik from higher up.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Key tips for families: Ensure children wear appropriate footwear with good grip. Pack plenty of snacks and water, as facilities are limited on the trail. Make frequent stops to rest and enjoy the scenery. For very young children or those with limited mobility, consider the accessibility of the lower trails and the potential for carrying them on steeper sections. The drive from Reykjavik is short, making it an easy day trip.
🚶 Budget Travelers
To save money, consider using public transportation from Reykjavik or carpooling if you're traveling with others. Packing your own lunch and snacks from a local supermarket will be significantly cheaper than buying food at cafes. This allows you to enjoy a full day of exploration without breaking the bank.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating the Trails of Mount Esja
For those seeking a greater challenge, the trail continues beyond Steinn towards the summit of Mount Esja, which stands at 914 meters. This upper section becomes significantly steeper and more demanding, involving scrambling over rocks and navigating narrow paths. It's recommended for experienced hikers with good stamina and proper gear, including hiking poles. The descent can be particularly tricky, with slippery rocks posing a hazard.
Beyond the main trails, there are other routes that offer different perspectives of the mountain. Always check trail conditions, especially after periods of rain or snow, and be prepared for rapidly changing weather. Informing someone of your hiking plans is always a good safety practice.
The Ever-Changing Icelandic Weather
It's crucial to dress in layers. Start with a moisture-wicking base layer, add an insulating layer like fleece, and top it off with a waterproof and windproof outer shell. This allows you to adjust your clothing as the temperature and conditions change. Sturdy, waterproof hiking boots are essential for comfort and to prevent slips on wet or uneven terrain.
Always check the weather forecast from reliable sources before you set out. Websites like the Icelandic Met Office (Veðurstofa Íslands) provide detailed and up-to-date information. Be prepared to postpone or alter your plans if the weather is severe, especially if you are not an experienced hiker.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit