Landmannalaugar & Hekla: colors, craters and hot springs

If you’re after a day that feels more like stepping onto another planet than on Earth, then this Landmannalaugar & Hekla tour promises just that. It’s a carefully curated experience that promises not only stunning scenery but also personalized attention in a small-group setting — perfect for those who want a more intimate connection with Iceland’s wild side.

We love the exclusive access to remote Highlands in a sturdy 4×4, the chance to admire the vivid, multi-colored rhyolite mountains, and the opportunity to soak in natural hot springs with mountain views. The only potential hitch might be the long day’s drive and physical activities, which are best suited for travelers with a decent level of fitness.

This tour is ideal for adventurers keen on geology, stunning landscapes, and authentic Icelandic experiences. If you’re after a comfortably-paced, private or small-group journey that combines nature, geology, and relaxation, keep reading for all the juicy details.

Good To Know

• Private, small-group experience ensures personalized attention and flexibility.
• Access to the Highlands in a modern 4×4 vehicle allows visiting otherwise unreachable areas.
• Surreal landscapes, including rhyolite mountains, crater lakes, and lava fields, provide incredible photo opportunities.
• Guided hike across volcanic terrain offers a tactile connection to Iceland’s volcanic history.
• Hot springs bathing rounds off the day with relaxation amid breathtaking scenery.
• Duration of 11 hours offers a full, immersive experience with plenty of memorable moments.

You can check if your dates are available here:

An In-Depth Look at the Landmannalaugar & Hekla Tour

Starting Point and Transportation

The adventure begins with a hotel pickup in Reykjavík around 8:30 AM, with a modern 4×4 vehicle ready to handle Iceland’s challenging Highland roads. This isn’t a tour you can do in a standard car — the rugged terrain demands a vehicle built for the job, which is exactly what you get. The small group size means fewer crowds, more flexibility with timing, and a warmer, more conversational atmosphere, as you’ll be guided by an experienced driver.

Traveling inland takes about 1.5 hours, during which your guide (who’s both knowledgeable and personable) often shares stories about the region’s volcanic activity and Iceland’s geological history. The vehicle’s onboard Wi-Fi is a nice touch, allowing you to snap photos or check maps without losing connection.

Hekla Volcano: A Majestic Sentinel

One of the first highlights is a stunning view of Hekla, Iceland’s most powerful and famously unpredictable stratovolcano. From a safe distance, you can appreciate its scale and geological significance. Several reviews mention how striking it is to see Hekla looming in the distance — a reminder of Iceland’s volcanic might. The tour doesn’t go right to the volcano’s edge (which is wise), but the photo stop provides a great opportunity for awe and educational commentary.

Crater Lakes and Lava Fields

Next, the journey takes you deeper into the Fjallabak Nature Reserve, home to some of Iceland’s most unique volcanic features. The first stop is Ljótipollur, a caldera filled with striking cobalt-blue water, set against vivid crimson tephra walls. Its name, amusingly translating to “Ugly Puddle,” is a bit misleading considering its beauty.

A short drive then brings you to Frostastaðavatn Lake, a peaceful mirror reflecting the surrounding rhyolite mountains‘ vibrant hues. It’s an ideal spot for quiet reflection and photography, especially with the contrast of the colorful mountains against the serene water.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Guided Hike across Laugahraun Lava Field

The day’s core activity is a guided hike of approximately 1.5 to 2 hours across the Laugahraun lava field. Formed by an eruption in 1477, this expanse of jagged obsidian-rich rock is a tactile reminder of Iceland’s volcanic temperament. Reviewers note that the terrain is uneven and rocky, so sturdy hiking boots and waterproof clothing are essential.

This walk is a real highlight for geology lovers, offering the chance to see volcanic formations up close and understand how recent eruptions shape the landscape. The guide explains how the basalt and obsidian rocks have cooled and cracked, creating an otherworldly terrain that’s both beautiful and a little intimidating.

The Magic of Landmannalaugar

After the hike, you arrive at Landmannalaugar, a geothermal hot spot famous for its swirling, multi-colored mountains. Here, the landscape is so surreal that it sometimes looks like a painting — vivid pinks, greens, yellows, and browns blending in a volcanic mosaic.

The guided tour includes a thorough exploration of the area, with plenty of time to take photos, admire the scenery, or simply soak it all in. The guide also shares insights into the geological processes that created these vivid formations, making the experience both visually stunning and educational.

Relaxation in Natural Hot Springs

The final, most relaxing part of the day is a soak in the natural geothermal springs at Landmannalaugar. Unlike crowded thermal pools, these springs are wild and natural, surrounded by mountains and colorful terrain. Many reviewers mention how soothing it is after a day of hiking and driving, and the experience feels like a true reward for your efforts.

You’ll want to bring your swimsuit and towel, as these aren’t provided. The experience of swimming in warm waters while gazing at striking mountain views is genuinely magical — a perfect way to unwind and reflect on the day’s adventures.

Return Journey and Final Thoughts

By around 7:30 to 8:00 PM, your guide will start heading back to Reykjavík, covering the remaining 3.5 hours of the journey. The return trip includes a few quick stops for photos or snacks, but overall it’s a comfortable wind-down after a full day.

Practical Considerations and Tips

While this tour offers extraordinary sights, it’s important to be prepared. Dress in layered, waterproof clothing — weather in Iceland can change rapidly, especially in the Highlands. Sturdy, waterproof hiking boots are essential for the lava field walk, and packing a lunch and snacks is advised since food options are unavailable once you’re in the Highlands.

The 11-hour duration of the tour is immersive but can be tiring, especially if you’re not accustomed to long days on the move. The physical activity level is moderate, with a hike of up to two hours over uneven terrain, so travelers should be reasonably fit.

The price of $543 per person reflects the exclusivity, private transportation, guided expertise, and access to otherwise remote areas. Considering the personalized experience and the inclusion of hot springs entry, many will find this to be a good value for a once-in-a-lifetime adventure.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience suits adventure enthusiasts, geology buffs, and travelers who want to explore Iceland’s wild interior without the hassle of self-driving. It’s perfect for those seeking a small-group, personalized experience with plenty of opportunities for photography and relaxation.

However, it’s less ideal for families with very young children, pregnant women, or travelers with mobility issues, due to the physical nature of the hikes and terrain.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for children?
It’s best suited for older children or teenagers who can handle the physical activity involved in the hike and the long day.

What should I bring for the hot springs?
Bring your swimsuit, towel, and waterproof footwear if you want to stay dry. The hot springs are natural and don’t provide rental equipment.

How rugged is the terrain during the hike?
The volcanic terrain is uneven and jagged. Good hiking shoes with grip and waterproof outerwear are recommended.

Can I expect good photo opportunities?
Absolutely. The landscape offers vibrant colors, crater lakes, and mountain panoramas, all perfect for memorable photos.

What’s included in the price?
Private hotel pickup and drop-off, transportation in a 4×4, a professional guide, entrance to the hot springs, and onboard Wi-Fi are included.

Are there food options during the trip?
No, travelers should pack their own lunch, snacks, and drinks, as there are no food stops in the Highlands.

How physically demanding is the tour?
Moderate. The hike lasts about 1.5 to 2 hours and involves uneven volcanic terrain; a reasonable level of fitness ensures you’ll enjoy it more.

Can I customize this tour?
The tour offers private or small-group options, allowing some flexibility, but core activities and timings are set to maximize the experience.

The Bottom Line

This Landmannalaugar & Hekla tour is a fantastic choice for travelers looking for a deep dive into Iceland’s volcanic heartland. It combines adventure, stunning scenery, and relaxation in a way that few other day trips can match. The personalized, small-group format allows for meaningful engagement and plenty of opportunities to capture the surreal landscapes.

While a bit physically demanding and weather-dependent, the experience offers a rare chance to connect with Iceland’s raw, volcanic power — from colorful mountains and crater lakes to bubbling hot springs. It’s well worth considering if you want a full, authentic Highlands adventure that leaves you with lifelong memories.

In summary, this tour is excellent for those seeking a visually stunning, educational, and immersive day out in Iceland’s volcanic wilderness. It’s a balanced mix of exploration, relaxation, and cultural insight, making it a memorable highlight of any Iceland itinerary.

You can check if your dates are available here: