Landmannalaugar Hike and Hot Springs from Reykjavik & Hella

Exploring Landmannalaugar from Reykjavik and Hella offers a full-day adventure into some of Iceland’s most striking highland landscapes. For $187 per person, this 13-hour trip takes you through colorful rhyolite mountains, expansive lava fields, and geothermal wonders, culminating in a relaxing soak in natural hot springs. The tour is organized by Nordur Travel and features small groups for a more intimate experience, with guides explaining the landscape in both English and Spanish.

Despite its value, this tour is best suited for those comfortable with a roughly 5-hour guided hike and a long day on the road. It’s designed to give a well-rounded taste of Landmannalaugar’s unique environment, but the shorter hiking route might leave some wanting more time in this spectacular region. Still, it offers great scenery, knowledgeable guides, and the chance to enjoy Iceland’s geothermal baths — making it an appealing option for many travelers.

Key Points

• Full-day tour lasting approximately 13 hours from Reykjavik and Hella.
• Guided hike of about 5 hours through Landmannalaugar’s colorful volcanic terrain.
• Relaxation in natural hot springs, with access at own expense.
• Small groups for a more personalized experience.
• Scenic transfers, including stops in Hella and on the way to Landmannalaugar.
• Includes Wi-Fi on board and guides fluent in English and Spanish.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Landmannalaugar: The Icelandic Highlands at Its Brightest

This full-day guided tour starts early in Reykjavik, with pickup options available at various bus stops around 6:30 AM, departing at 7:00 AM. The journey takes approximately 1.5 hours to reach the Hella stop, where travelers can use facilities, grab coffee, or buy last-minute snacks before continuing into the highlands. Around 11:00 AM, the bus arrives at the Landmannalaugar base camp, marking the beginning of the main adventure.

The highlight here is the guided hiking that begins at 11:10 AM. The roughly 5-hour trek explores the region’s vibrant rhyolite mountains, lava fields, and obsidian formations. The guide shares insights about geothermal activity while leading the group through uneven trails and stream crossings — appropriate footwear and layered clothing are advised. Lunch and water are not included, so packing sufficiently for the hike is recommended.

Exploring Landmannalaugar’s Unique Geology and Colors

Landmannalaugar’s landscape is famous for its brightly colored rhyolite mountains, which display shades of red, pink, yellow, and green due to volcanic mineral deposits. The lava fields spread across the area, showing evidence of past eruptions, while geothermal activity manifests in bubbling mud pools and steaming vents. During the hike, guides point out geothermal features and share stories about the volcanic history of the region.

This environment creates numerous photo opportunities, with the colorful mountains providing a striking contrast against the often cloud-covered sky. The terrain is diverse but generally accessible for those prepared for uneven paths. The total hiking distance is manageable for most, but those with mobility concerns should consider the trail’s unevenness and stream crossings.

Free Time and Hot Springs Access in Landmannalaugar

After the hike, travelers enjoy a short 50-minute break from 3:00 PM to 3:50 PM to relax and take in the surroundings. Here, optional hot spring bathing is available — travelers need to bring swimsuits and towels, as access to the natural hot springs is at own expense. The hot springs are famous for their soothing waters, providing a perfect way to unwind after several hours of walking.

Visitors can also use this time to grab a drink, take photos, or simply soak up the incredible scenery. The hot springs are free to access, but it’s wise to arrive prepared with your own towel or bathing gear.

Scenic Transfer Back to Reykjavik and Hella

Departing Landmannalaugar at 4:00 PM, the bus retraces its route back toward Hella, with an estimated arrival around 6:25 PM. The return journey includes a quick stop for restroom breaks and last-minute food purchases before continuing to Reykjavik. The final drop-offs in Reykjavik occur around 8:00 PM, concluding the long but rewarding day.

Throughout the trip, the Wi-Fi on board makes sharing photos or staying connected easier, while guides keep explanations engaging in both English and Spanish. The overall pacing offers a good balance of adventure and relaxation, although the shorter hike may leave some wishing for more exploration time.

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Logistics and Group Size

This tour departs from multiple pick-up points in Reykjavik, including Hallgrimskirkja and Tjörnin The Pond, with pickups starting as early as 6:30 AM. The group size is kept small, fostering a more personalized interaction with guides. The journey involves about 2.33 hours of scenic driving each way, giving travelers time to relax or enjoy the views.

The guided hike is led by certified guides who speak both English and Spanish, sharing insights about Iceland’s volcanic landscape, flora, and fauna. The tour is not suitable for wheelchair users due to uneven terrain and trail conditions.

What Sets This Tour Apart

Unlike some other day trips, this experience emphasizes small group sizes and personalized guidance, making it easier to ask questions and enjoy the landscape. The combination of hiking and geothermal bathing offers a well-rounded taste of the highlands’ natural wonders. The inclusion of Wi-Fi on the bus adds convenience for sharing highlights during the day.

A notable positive from reviews is the expertise and friendliness of guides like Carmen and Nacho, who make the day informative and relaxed. The scenery of Landmannalaugar is consistently praised, with its colorful mountains and geothermal features providing unforgettable visuals.

Limitations and Considerations

While the tour covers key sights, the hiking route is relatively short, which may disappoint those looking for a longer trek or more rugged exploration. The hot springs visit is optional and at own expense, so budget accordingly if you want to indulge. The English guide’s language skills have been noted as sometimes inconsistent, so travelers who prioritize fluent communication may want to consider this.

The value for money is solid, considering the included guide, transportation, and access to the stunning landscape. However, travelers should be prepared for a long day with early pickups and several hours of travel.

Who Will Appreciate This Tour

This trip appeals most to adventure seekers who enjoy moderate hiking, scenic drives, and geothermal relaxation. It’s also ideal for small groups looking for a more personal touch and guides eager to share Iceland’s volcanic story. Travelers who appreciate stunning landscapes and are okay with a shorter hike will find this tour rewarding.

Those with mobility issues or who desire more extensive hiking should explore other options, as this tour’s terrain can be uneven and challenging for some.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour price?
The price covers pickup and drop-off in Reykjavík and Hella, a certified guide, guided hike, and Wi-Fi onboard.

Are meals included?
No, food and drinks are not included. It’s recommended to bring lunch, snacks, and water for the hike.

Can I access the hot springs?
Yes, you can enjoy the hot springs at own expense during the free time after the hike. Bring swimsuit and towel.

What is the duration of the hike?
The guided hike lasts approximately 5 hours, covering the region’s key geological sights.

Is the tour suitable for children or older adults?
The tour is designed for those able to handle uneven terrain and several hours of hiking; it’s less suitable for wheelchair users or those with mobility concerns.

What should I wear for the hike?
Dress in layers, wear waterproof gear, and bring comfortable hiking shoes suitable for uneven trails.

Do guides speak only Spanish or English?
Guides are fluent in both Spanish and English, ensuring clear explanations for all guests.

How long is the drive from Reykjavík to Landmannalaugar?
The journey takes about 2.33 hours each way, with scenic stops along the route.

Can I do this tour if I have limited time in Iceland?
The 13-hour duration makes it a full day, but it offers a concentrated experience of Landmannalaugar’s highlights, suitable for those with a full-day schedule.

Is this tour environmentally friendly?
The tour emphasizes guided exploration and respects natural features, but travelers should follow guide instructions to help preserve the delicate highland environment.

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