Explore hiking trails and soak in geothermal springs in Landmannalaugar, Iceland
For adventure lovers, a trip to Iceland wouldn’t be complete without time spent in this hikers’ paradise. In fact, visit Landmannalaugar and you’ll find the area crisscrossed with paths that wind their way through the region’s characteristically colorful rhyolite mountains.
Some of the area’s hiking routes, including the renowned Laugavegur trail, will take you to unforgettable spots. For instance, Bláhnjúkur volcano (the ‘Blue Peak’) and Mount Brennisteinsalda, which is known as the ‘Sulphur Wave’ thanks to its vibrant yellow coloring.
As well as rainbow-colored ridges, you’ll come across other volcanic landforms, such as the Laugahraun lava field. Surrounded by vibrant shades of red and green, the inky black of this ancient lava really pops.
If you do go for a hike in Landmannalaugar don’t miss the chance to soothe your muscles in one of the geothermal pools. Surely this is the perfect way to relax after a long day on the trail?
Like elsewhere in Iceland, you’ll find the weather conditions can be somewhat unpredictable. This means that whether you’re going for a hike, or staying close to the visitor center, you’ll need to be prepared for anything. For instance, sturdy boots or walking shoes, along with warm and waterproof jackets are must-bring items.
It’s worth noting that the best time of year to visit Landmannlaugar is from mid-June to early September. Traveling in summer, once the snow and ice has melted, means that the gravel roads (known as F roads) will be open again. And the temperatures should be milder.
Read on for answers to some of the most commonly asked questions about visiting Landmannalaugar.
Other attractions near Landmannalaugar
Skaftafell Nature Reserve
165 km (103 mi)
View
Seljalandsfoss
135 km (84 mi)
View
Downtown Reykjavík
182 km (113 mi)
View
Fagradalsfjall volcano
200 km (124 mi)
ViewFAQs about Landmannalaugar
Absolutely! If you want to venture off the beaten path, then a visit to the Icelandic highlands is recommended. And located in South Iceland, Landmannalaugar is not only breathtaking, but relatively easy to get to from Reykjavík.
The region is known for its multi-colored rhyolite mountains, hot springs, and network of hiking trails. It’s also part of the Fjallabak Nature Reserve, founded in 1979. Whether you go for a day trip or opt to spend a few days here, you’ll be blown away by the striking volcanic landscapes.
You can reach Landmannalaugar by leaving the Ring Road (or Route 1) behind and heading north into Iceland’s central highlands. Then, follow one of the unpaved roads, known as F roads, towards Landmannalaugar.
Before arranging your rental car, you should know that you’ll need a 4x4 vehicle to handle the region’s gravel roads.
So if you’re planning a self-drive tour, it helps if you’re a confident driver with 4x4 driving experience. For instance, you’ll want to be comfortable with river crossings and moving over rough unpaved roads. And note that driving off-road anywhere in Iceland is not allowed as it’s damaging to the natural flora and fauna.
If you want to explore the region, but would prefer not to drive, you could choose one of the many guided tours to Landmannalaugar. This way a skilled guide will take the wheel, leaving you free to sit back and enjoy the view.
Read this guide to driving in Iceland to find out more.
Yes, due to the rough gravel roads in Landmannalaugar, you’ll need a 4x4 vehicle to get around here.
If you’re venturing into the region on a self-drive road trip, make sure to book a 4x4 vehicle with your rental company.
Book your trip to the highlands with Iceland Tours, and our travel experts will take care of the details for you. Whether that’s sorting out a rental car with a trusted local partner for your road trip, or arranging a guided excursion to jaw-dropping Landmannalaugar.
Check out the trips that venture into Iceland’s wild heart by filtering our summer tour packages. Just select highlands in the ‘Best for’ box.
How long you should spend in Landmannalaugar depends on what you’d like to do during your stay.
Do you want to see the region as part of a trip where you’ll be exploring a few different regions of Iceland? If so, then around a day is a good length of time to spend here.
A day in Landmannalaugar will mean you have enough time to soak up the region’s highlights. You’ll be able to glimpse the volcanic sights, go for a short hike in the colorful mountains, and even take a dip in a hot or cold spring.
If you’re visiting Landmannalaugar for more than a day trip, then you have a couple of options for staying the night.
You could book a spot in the Landmannalaugar hut (operated by the Iceland Touring Association) or camp at the official Landmannalaugar campsite.
Or if you’re walking the Laugavegur trail from Þórsmörk to Landmannalaugar over 3 to 4 days, you’ll find mountain huts dotted along the route. In this case, we highly recommend joining an escorted group or finding a professional mountain guide for your own expedition.
From Reykjavík, the most straightforward way to get to Landmannalaugar is by following Route 1 (the Ring Road) east for about 80 km (50 mi). Arrive at a junction with a service stop and turn left, following the signpost for Galtalækur on route F26.
Soon the paved surface will end and you’ll be able to follow this gravel road leading to Landmannalaugar. Switch to the F208 and then it won’t be long until you arrive at the Landmannalaugar’s main car park. This is right next to the campsite and mountain hut.
All in all, the journey is around 182 km (113 mi) and should take 3-4 hours in a 4x4 vehicle. It’s worth bearing in mind that you’ll be covering ground more slowly once you’re on unpaved roads. And make sure you have a full tank of fuel, as there aren’t any petrol stations in the area.