About the Tour
Experience one of Iceland’s most exciting outdoor adventures on the spectacular Fálkaklettur Via Ferrata — a guided climb that combines breathtaking scenery, adrenaline, and achievement. Named after “Falcon Rock,” this unique route is built into the cliffs of Mt. Esja and offers sweeping views over the ocean toward Reykjavík.
Our tours are led by trained and experienced guides who support you every step of the way — whether you’re a complete beginner or a more experienced climber. No prior climbing experience is required, and you’ll be equipped with professional Via Ferrata gear that meets strict European safety standards.
Free cancellation · more than 24 hours in advance
Certified equipment · meets strict European safety standards
Small groups · personal attention from your guide
Highlights
Crossing the exposed suspension bridge — the standout moment of the climb, suspended between two vertical faces of Falcon Rock
Panoramic summit views over Mt. Esja, Faxaflói Bay and Reykjavík
Vertical rock faces, steel rungs and exciting exposed sections — with continuous safety from the cable system
Only 25 minutes from Reykjavík city center
Itinerary
You’ll meet your guide at the Mt. Esja Hiking Center (Esjustofa), just 25 minutes from Reykjavík. After a warm welcome and check-in, the adventure unfolds in six stages:
Your guide will equip you with all necessary Via Ferrata gear — helmet, harness, and lanyards — and give a clear, friendly introduction to how the system works, how to move safely on the cables and ladders, basic climbing techniques and what to expect on the route. Even complete beginners feel confident before starting.
A gentle hike along the lower slopes of Mt. Esja — fresh mountain air, views toward the ocean, and first glimpses of the spectacular Fálkaklettur cliff. This warm-up prepares your body for the climb ahead.
Clip into the steel safety cable and make your way up “Falcon Rock”: vertical rock faces with secure steel rungs, narrow ledges and exciting exposed sections, a mix of easier and more challenging parts — and ocean and Reykjavík views that get better with every step.
After crossing the suspension bridge you reach the top of the route. Soak in the panoramic views — Mt. Esja, the bay, and Reykjavík in the distance. Perfect for photos, a snack and celebrating your accomplishment.
Descend via a scenic hiking trail back toward the base while your guide shares local stories and insights about the mountain and surrounding area.
The tour ends where it began — return your gear and enjoy some final photos and conversations.
Safety
At Fálkaklettur, safety is our top priority. Our via ferrata route on Mt. Esja is designed and maintained to the highest standards. All guests are equipped with certified safety gear and receive a thorough safety briefing before the climb, and our experienced guides ensure correct use of equipment throughout the route.
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 follow guide instructions 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.
View on Google Maps →
Frequently asked questions
No — a normal fitness level is enough and no prior climbing experience is required. Your guide will teach you everything you need before the climb.
More than 24 hours notice: full refund. Less than 24 hours notice: no refund.
Yes, we have toilets at the Esja Hiking Center for our customers, and public toilets are located at the Mt. Esja parking lot. There are no toilets on the Via Ferrata trail itself.
We do not recommend climbing with a backpack, but you can leave a bag at the start of the climb.
April to October. If weather allows, custom and private tours can be arranged outside the normal date range.
