How to Book Mountain Huts in Iceland
Book Iceland's mountain huts through Ferðafélag Íslands (Iceland Touring Association) or individual hut operators 1-3 months ahead for summer, earlier for popular routes. Most huts cost 4,000-8,000 ISK per night and require cash payment on arrival.
- Choose your hiking route and identify hut locations. Use the Ferðafélag Íslands website or hiking maps to locate mountain huts along your planned route. Popular areas include Landmannalaugar, Þórsmörk, and the Laugavegur trail. Note that not all huts are bookable - some operate first-come-first-served.
- Check hut availability and booking requirements. Visit fi.is for Ferðafélag Íslands huts or contact individual operators directly. Some huts require advance booking, others don't accept reservations. Huts typically open mid-June through mid-September, with exact dates depending on weather and accessibility.
- Make your reservation online or by phone. For bookable huts, reserve through the operator's website or call directly. You'll need to provide arrival date, number of guests, and contact information. Many operators require a deposit or full payment upfront via credit card.
- Confirm payment method and check-in procedures. Most mountain huts operate cash-only for on-site payments, though some accept cards. Confirm payment method when booking. Check-in is typically self-service with a hut warden available during peak hours (usually 5-9 PM).
- Prepare backup accommodation plans. Always carry a tent as backup since weather can close huts unexpectedly or they may be full. Some popular huts like Landmannalaugar fill up completely during peak season (July-August) despite reservations.
- Can I book mountain huts year-round?
- No, most mountain huts close from October through May due to weather and accessibility. Only a few huts near Reykjavik stay open year-round.
- What if a hut is full when I arrive?
- Carry a tent as backup. Some huts allow floor sleeping for 2,000-3,000 ISK if beds are full, but this isn't guaranteed. Popular routes fill up completely during peak season.
- Do mountain huts have kitchens?
- Most huts have basic cooking facilities with gas stoves and cookware, but bring your own food. Some remote huts have no cooking facilities - check when booking.
- How do I pay if the hut is unmanned?
- Leave cash in the payment box or envelope provided. Some huts have card readers, but cash is more reliable. Payment is usually due upon arrival or departure.