What is Hengill?
Hengill is an active volcanic system in southwest Iceland, made up of a central volcano and a network of fissures. Although its last eruption occurred around 2,000 years ago, the area remains highly active underground, with visible geothermal features such as steam vents, hot springs, and bubbling mud pools.
The geothermal energy beneath Hengill powers major facilities like the Hellisheiði and Nesjavellir power plants, which supply electricity and hot water to Reykjavík and surrounding areas.
- GPS Coordinates
- 64.03972° N, 21.33740° W
- Distance from Reykjavík (BSÍ)
- 35 km (22 miles)
- Best time to visit
- Spring - Autumn
Why Visit Hengill?
Hengill is one of the best places in Iceland to experience geothermal activity up close without the crowds of more famous sites.
Here, you can:
- Join a guided ATV ride exploring the area
- Hike through steaming valleys and colorful mineral landscapes
- Bathe in a naturally warm river in Reykjadalur
- Explore quiet trails with panoramic mountain views
- See how Iceland harnesses geothermal energy
Its proximity to Reykjavík makes it perfect for half-day or full-day trips, especially for travelers looking to go beyond the typical Golden Circle stops.
Geology & Geothermal Activity
Hengill sits at the intersection of major tectonic zones in Iceland, where volcanic and seismic activity shape the landscape. The system stretches for tens of kilometers and includes multiple geothermal areas, with steam vents and hot springs visible across the region.
This constant underground activity heats water to high temperatures, creating the geothermal features seen on the surface and making Hengill one of the most important energy sources in Iceland.
Top Things to Do in Hengill
Hike Reykjadalur Hot Spring Valley
One of Iceland’s most popular geothermal hikes, Reykjadalur leads you through a valley filled with steam vents and hot springs, ending at a warm river where you can bathe.
- ~1 hour hike each way
- Natural bathing spots
- Well-marked trail
Explore the Hengill Hiking Area
The wider Hengill region features over 100 km of hiking trails through lava fields, geothermal zones, and mountain ridges.
- Fewer crowds than major attractions
- Ideal for experienced hikers
- Expansive views of southwest Iceland
Explore the Hengill Area on an ATV
- For a more adventurous way to experience Hengill, ATV tours offer access to rugged trails, lava fields, and panoramic viewpoints that are difficult to reach on foot.
- Ride across volcanic terrain and mountain tracks
- Views over Hellisheiði plateau and surrounding valleys
- Suitable for beginners and experienced riders
- Guided tours available from Litla Kaffistofan and with transfer from Reykjavík
ATV tours are a great option if you want to cover more ground in a shorter time while still experiencing the raw landscape of the Hengill area.
Visit Hellisheiði Geothermal Area
The Hellisheiði plateau is home to one of Iceland’s largest geothermal power plants and offers a fascinating look at how volcanic energy is used for sustainable power.
- Educational and scenic
- Easy to combine with Golden Circle routes
- Views of steam rising from the landscape
Yes, Hengill is an active volcanic system with ongoing geothermal activity, although it hasn’t erupted in around 2,000 years.
Yes, there are mud baths available at Skíðaskálinn in Hveradalir and a popular bathing site can also be found in Reykjadalur Valley which sports a warm, geothermal river!
Yes, especially for travelers looking for geothermal landscapes near Reykjavík with fewer crowds.
Around 25–35 km, or roughly a 30–40 minute drive.
Related tours
Volcano Valley ATV Tour Near Reykjavík – 2 Hours
Just 20 minutes from Reykjavík, take a break from city streets to embrace lava fields and volcanic peaks on this thrilling 2-hour ATV adventure.
Hengill Geothermal ATV Tour Near Reykjavík – 1 Hour
Ride across lava fields, explore Iceland’s most powerful geothermal area, and experience the raw energy of Hengill on this 1-hour ATV adventure near Reykjavík.