Self-Guided Tour · Mt. Esja · Beginner-Friendly

Reykjavík Panorama Via Ferrata

A fun, family-friendly introduction to via ferrata on Mt. Esja with scenic hiking, protected climbing sections and the unforgettable Reykjavík Panorama Bridge, with spectacular views over Reykjavík and Faxaflói Bay.

Book now — from ISK 8,000

About the Tour

Perfect for first-time climbers and families, the Reykjavík Panorama Via Ferrata offers a fun and safe introduction to via ferrata on Mt. Esja. Enjoy scenic hiking, protected climbing sections and the unforgettable Reykjavík Panorama Bridge, all while taking in spectacular views across Reykjavík and Faxaflói Bay.

This is a self-guided experience and you will explore the route at your own pace. All certified via ferrata equipment and access to the route is included, such as helmet, harness, lanyard system and gloves. No previous climbing experience is required and if needed we will provide thorough safety briefing and instruction before you set off.

Free cancellation · more than 24 hours in advance

Certified equipment · meets strict European safety standards

Highlights

Crossing the Reykjavík Panorama Bridge — the unforgettable highlight of the route
Incredible panoramic views over Reykjavík and Faxaflói Bay
A safe and fun introduction to via ferrata with protected climbing sections throughout
Explore at your own pace with self-guided freedom, only 25 minutes from Reykjavík

Included

Access to the via ferrata route
Certified helmet, harness and Via Ferrata lanyard system
Gloves

What to bring

Warm outdoor clothing in layers
Sturdy hiking shoes with good grip
Water and snacks
A phone or camera for the views — securely stowed

Itinerary

Your adventure starts at the Mt. Esja Hiking Center (Esjustofa), just 25 minutes from Reykjavík. After check-in, gear fitting and a thorough safety briefing, you set off at your own pace:

1. Gear Up & Safety Briefing (15–20 min)

Our team will equip you with all necessary Via Ferrata gear, helmet, harness, lanyards and gloves.

2. Scenic Approach Hike (20 min)

A gentle hike along the lower slopes of Mt. Esja on a marked trail. Fresh mountain air, views toward the ocean, and a perfect warm-up before you reach the start of the climbing route.

3. Via Ferrata Climb (1–1.5 hrs)

Clip into the steel safety cable and make your way along the beginner-friendly route: protected climbing sections with secure steel rungs, fun scrambles suitable for the whole family, and views over Reykjavík and Faxaflói Bay that get better with every step.

4. Reykjavík Panorama Bridge (10–20 min)

The unforgettable highlight of the tour; cross the Reykjavík Panorama Bridge and soak in the spectacular views across the city and the bay. Perfect for photos, a snack and celebrating your accomplishment.

5. Descent & Return Hike (30–40 min)

Descend via a scenic marked hiking trail back toward the base, enjoying the mountain landscape on the way down.

6. Arrival Back at Esjustofa

The tour ends where it began, return your gear and enjoy some final photos before heading home.

Safety

At Fálkaklettur, safety is our top priority. Our via ferrata routes on Mt. Esja are designed and maintained to the highest standards, and the Reykjavík Panorama route is protected by a continuous steel safety cable along its entire length. All guests are equipped with certified safety gear.

The route is regularly inspected and adapted to weather and trail conditions, we only operate when conditions are safe, and reserve the right to postpone or cancel tours if necessary. Participants are expected to stay on the marked route, follow the instructions from the safety briefing at all times, and inform us of any medical conditions that may affect their ability to climb.

How to get there

All tours start from Mt. Esja Hiking Center (Esjustofa), a 20–25 minute drive from Reykjavík city center. Drive east on Route 1 toward Mosfellsbær, continue until you see signs for “Esja/Esjustofa”, and turn right into the Mt. Esja parking area. Free parking is available on site.

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