Private Tour · Mt. Esja · Advanced

Bear Via Ferrata

A demanding via ferrata climb for experienced and confident climbers — a stronger physical test, more exposure, and a true sense of mountain adventure, in a private guided experience adapted to your group.

Book now — ISK 99,500 per group

About the Tour

The Bear Via Ferrata offers a more demanding and exposed climbing experience compared to our beginner-friendly routes — combining steeper sections, more technical movement, and longer continuous climbing stretches. It is designed for guests who want to push their limits while still enjoying the safety of a guided and fully equipped via ferrata system.

This is a private guided experience only, for groups of 1–4. Your private guide will adapt the pace and provide instruction throughout, but the route requires confidence with heights, good endurance, and a willingness to engage with more challenging terrain. The reward is a powerful sense of achievement and some of the most dramatic views available on any of our routes.

Free cancellation · more than 24 hours in advance

Certified equipment · meets strict European safety standards

Private guide · exclusively for your group of 1–4

Highlights

Steeper, more exposed and more technical terrain than our beginner-friendly routes
Private guide for full support, focus and flexible pacing
Ideal for strong hikers and adventure seekers ready to push their limits
Some of the most dramatic views available on any of our routes, a true sense of achievement in the Icelandic mountains

The Highlight

The defining moment of the Bear Via Ferrata is the exposed climbing sections where the mountain opens beneath you, creating a strong sense of height, exposure and adventure. Unlike easier routes, these sections demand focus and controlled movement — but reward you with an unmatched feeling of progress and achievement.

For many guests, reaching the upper sections of the route marks a personal milestone and a true mountain memory.

Included

Private highly experienced guide — personal guidance throughout the climb
Certified helmet, harness and Via Ferrata lanyard system
Gloves with rubber grip
Safety briefing, technical instruction and flexible pacing based on group ability

What to bring

Technical outdoor clothing in layers — weather can change quickly
Sturdy hiking or approach shoes with excellent grip
Water bottle
Energy snacks

Itinerary

Your adventure begins at the Mt. Esja Hiking Center (Esjustofa), just 20–25 minutes from Reykjavík. Meet your private guide, check in, and get ready for a demanding mountain adventure:

1. Gear Up & Technical Briefing (20 min)

Your guide fits your equipment — helmet, harness, lanyards and gloves — performs a full safety check, and introduces the via ferrata techniques you’ll use on the route.

2. Approach Hike (20–30 min)

A scenic walk along the lower slopes of Mt. Esja leads to the start point of the via ferrata.

3. Bear Ascent (1.5–2 hrs)

Technical via ferrata climbing with continuous guide support — steeper sections, longer continuous climbing stretches and exposed passages, with your guide coaching you through the more challenging terrain.

4. Summit / High Point (10–20 min)

Time to rest, soak in some of the most dramatic views on any of our routes, and take photos to remember the achievement.

5. Descent & Return Hike (30–40 min)

A controlled descent under your guide’s supervision, followed by the hike back to Esjustofa where your adventure concludes.

Safety

Safety remains the highest priority. Before starting, your guide provides a detailed safety briefing and ensures correct use of all equipment. Throughout the tour, your guide remains with your group at all times to assist, coach, and manage safety on the more technical sections.

The route is regularly inspected and only operates in suitable weather conditions — tours may be adjusted or cancelled if conditions are not safe. Participants must follow guide instructions at all times and disclose any relevant medical conditions before the tour.

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.

View on Google Maps →

Frequently asked questions

Do I need climbing experience?

Prior via ferrata or climbing experience is strongly recommended, and good physical fitness is required. You should be confident with heights and comfortable engaging with more challenging terrain. If you’re newer to via ferrata, our Panorama or Falcon routes are a better starting point — and if you’re looking for an even bigger challenge, check out the Dragon.