Mt. Esja Tours and Tickets

There are plenty of ways to experience Mt. Esja. Looking at ratings and reviews previously given by customers, these are the best tours available right now:

• Helicopter Tour with Mountain Summit Landing from Reykjavik
• Fire and Ice Helicopter Tour: Glacier and Hengill Geothermal Area
• Hvammsvík Hot Spring with Return Transfers from Reykjavík
• Helicopter Tour: Reykjavik City with landing at Mount Esja
• ATV & Golden Circle Adventure from Reykjavik

While it costs nothing to visit Mt. Esja on your own, you can get a richer experience of the landmark by joining a guided tour—and enjoy some thrills along the way. Options include hot spring adventures that pass by the mountain starting at about US$130 per person, ATV tours that ride by from US$270, and helicopter tours that land at the summit from US$280.

Mt. Esja is part of a volcanic mountain range that lies close to Reykjavik, within easy reach of the capital. It’s a popular hiking spot that offers sweeping views from the summit of the city and its surroundings, including the Reykjanes Peninsula.

The difficulty level of hiking Mt. Esja depends on which of its several trails you choose to tackle. Inexperienced hikers and mountain pros alike can find a trail to suit their style, with options ranging from short, easy strolls to more arduous multi-hour treks.

How long it takes to hike Mt. Esja depends on several factors, including your level of fitness and hiking experience, as well as which trail you choose to take. Typically, hikers following the most popular route to the summit can expect it to take 2–4 hours for the round trip.

To hike up Mt. Esja, you should wear layered clothing, especially waterproof outer layers; sturdy footwear with ankle support, ideally hiking boots; sun protection, including sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat; and you should pack plenty of water and snacks to keep fueled and hydrated.