From Reykjavik: Landmannalaugar & Háifoss Waterfall Tour

If you’re planning a trip to Iceland and want to see beyond the usual stops, this Landmannalaugar & Háifoss Waterfall tour is a compelling option. It promises a full day of stunning scenery, engaging hikes, and the chance to relax in natural hot springs—all from Reykjavik. While we haven’t personally taken this specific trip, the glowing reviews and detailed itinerary paint a pretty clear picture of what you can expect.

What stands out about this tour? First, the focus on less-visited spots means you’ll avoid the crowds and really soak in the raw beauty of Iceland’s highlands. Second, the guided hike along the colorful rhyolite hills offers a chance to experience the volcanic terrain up close. On the flip side, a key consideration is the duration—at around 13 hours, it’s a long day, which might be tiring for some, especially if you’re not used to all-day excursions.

This tour would generally suit travelers who are comfortable with moderate hiking and are eager to explore remote Icelandic landscapes. It’s perfect for those who love nature, photography, and a bit of adventure, but maybe less so for those with mobility issues or very young children. Overall, if you’re after a comprehensive day trip that combines scenic beauty with active exploration, this could be a great pick.

Key Points

• Remote Icelandic beauty: You’ll escape the crowds and see lesser-visited natural wonders.
• Diverse landscapes: Expect rhyolite hills, lava fields, volcanic craters, waterfalls, and geothermal hot springs.
• Guided hike: About 4 hours on the Lauga-loop trail offers stunning views and an active experience.
• Full-day commitment: Expect around 13 hours including travel, stops, and activities.
• Value for money: At $211, the tour covers transportation, guide, park fees, and some unique sights, making it quite comprehensive.
• Moderate physical activity: Suitable for those who are comfortable with a 6 km hike and some uneven terrain.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Deep Dive into the Experience

Starting Out in Reykjavik

Your day kicks off with a pickup from a designated meeting point in Reykjavik at Tour Bus Stop 12, Höfðatorg. The journey to the highlands takes about 1.5 to 2 hours, giving you a chance to settle in, chat with fellow travelers, or simply enjoy the scenery rolling by. Wi-fi on board is a nice touch, allowing you to share your anticipation or soak in some last-minute Iceland tips from your guide.

The Scenic Drive & Stops Along the Way

As the bus departs Reykjavik, the landscape swiftly shifts from city streets to open Icelandic terrain. The itinerary includes several scenic stops that are worth a quick look—Hnausapollur crater lake, Frostastaðavatn, Hjálparfoss waterfall, and others. One of the first major highlights is Hnausapollur, an eye-catching turquoise crater lake formed by volcanic activity. The water’s vibrant hue contrasts beautifully with the surrounding desolate sands, giving you a sense of Iceland’s volcanic origins. According to reviews, this stop is brief but memorable, with about 10 minutes to take photos and soak in the views.

Next, the bus heads toward Frostastaðavatn, a lakeside spot where you’ll want to snap some photos of the serene waters and rugged landscape. Then comes the highlight of the day: Landmannalaugar itself.

Landmannalaugar: The Heart of the Tour

This area is often called the pearl of the Icelandic highlands for its extraordinary volcanic scenery. The colorful rhyolite hills in shades of red, pink, green, and yellow are a sight to behold, especially against a clear sky. The tour allocates around 4 hours here, giving you plenty of time for multiple activities.

The main event is a guided hike along the Lauga-loop trail. This easy 1.5-2 hour walk takes you through the volcanic terrain, passing obsidian rock formations and steaming geothermal pools. The landscape is truly otherworldly. Several reviews mention how the diverse scenery makes every turn worthwhile. One traveler described it as “insanely beautiful,” while others appreciated the chance to get active in nature.

After the hike, there’s the opportunity to bathe in the geothermal hot springs. The water is said to be healing and refreshing, a perfect reward after your walk. Many reviews highlight how relaxing it was to soak in the warm waters with panoramic views—something that often sticks in travelers’ memories as a highlight.

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The Other Waterfalls & Geological Sites

On the way back, you’ll visit Háifoss, Iceland’s fourth-largest waterfall, which cascades dramatically into the canyon below. The sight of this powerful cascade, framed by volcanic rocks, is unforgettable. The tour also includes a stop at Hjálparfoss and Sigöldugljúfur, a lesser-known but jaw-dropping crater canyon filled with turquoise water. Comments from travelers rave about these stops, with one saying, “the landscape is incredible and so much to take in at once.”

Wrapping Up the Day

The return journey involves about 3 hours of driving, during which guides often share Icelandic stories and music, creating a cozy atmosphere despite the long day. The tour ends with drop-offs at various central Reykjavik locations, so you’ll be back late in the evening, tired but filled with memories of untouched nature.

What the Reviews Say

Reviewers consistently praise the professionalism and friendliness of the guides, with many mentioning specific guides like Petur, HBO, and Karla for their knowledge and warmth. One reviewer said, “Our guide HBO was amazing! So kind, very informative, and an excellent driver,” which underscores how important a good guide can be for enriching your experience.

The scenery gets near-universal praise, with travelers calling the landscape “insanely beautiful,” “spectacular,” and “like stepping onto another planet.” Many mention how the different stops each offer a unique glimpse into Iceland’s volcanic activity—lava fields, crater lakes, waterfalls, and geothermal pools.

The value-for-money aspect is also a common theme. For $211, you get a full day of guided adventure, transportation, fees, and access to hot springs. Many reviews note that it’s a well-organized trip, with some comments about the long hours but overall positive impressions of the experience.

One thing to consider is the length of the day. While most find it worthwhile, some travelers felt it was a bit too long, especially if you prefer shorter excursions or have young children. The hike itself is about 6 km, which is manageable for most but could be tiring for some.

Practical Details & Tips

• Transportation: Comfortable bus with Wi-fi, but the trip can be bumpy in parts due to Iceland’s rugged roads.
• Duration: Around 13 hours, including travel time, stops, and activities. Starting times vary, so check your voucher.
• Cost: $211 per person; considering this covers transportation, guide, and park fees, it offers good value for a full-day adventure.
• What to Bring: Hiking shoes, weather-appropriate clothing, swimwear, towel, water, snacks, and anything else to stay comfortable during the outdoor activities.
• Physical Level: Moderate. You should be comfortable walking about 6 km on uneven terrain.
• Not Suitable For: Children under 8 and travelers with mobility issues.
• Cancellation & Flexibility: Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, and you can reserve now and pay later.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re someone who loves active outdoor experiences and wants to see a variety of Iceland’s volcanic landscapes without the hassle of self-driving, this trip checks a lot of boxes. It’s perfect if you’re okay with a long day but want to maximize your sightseeing and photo opportunities.

Travelers who value guided insights and enjoy learning about Iceland’s geology and natural phenomena will find the guided commentary particularly engaging. However, if you’re looking for a more relaxed or shorter excursion, this might feel a bit hefty—though still rewarding.

FAQs

Is hotel pickup included?
No, this tour starts at a specified meeting point in Reykjavik, but pickup is optional and can be arranged with the tour operator.

How long is the hike?
The guided hike at Landmannalaugar is about 1.5-2 hours along the Lauga-loop trail. It’s considered easy and suitable for most people comfortable with moderate activity.

What should I bring for the hot springs?
Bring swimwear and a towel. There are no changing rooms or lockers at the hot spring site, so be prepared to change before and after.

Are children allowed on this tour?
Not suitable for children under 8 years old. It involves a moderate hike and long hours, so it’s best suited for older kids and adults.

What if the weather is bad?
This tour runs rain or shine. Some reviews mention grey clouds but still praise the scenery; Iceland’s weather can be unpredictable, so come prepared with weather-appropriate clothing.

What is the price for this experience?
It costs about $211 per person, which covers transportation, the guide, and entrance fees. Considering the variety of sights and activities included, it offers good value.

Final Thoughts

This Landmannalaugar & Háifoss Waterfall tour provides a fantastic way to explore Iceland’s more remote and colorful landscapes without the stress of self-driving. The combination of scenic stops, active hiking, and geothermal relaxation makes for a well-rounded day. Most travelers find it worth the time and cost, especially those eager to see volcanic terrains and waterfalls up close.

While the long hours might be a bit tiring, the opportunity to experience Iceland’s highlands in a guided, comfortable setting tends to outweigh the downsides. It’s a trip that offers plenty of photo-worthy moments, educational insights, and a chance to truly connect with Iceland’s wild side.

If you’re comfortable with moderate hiking and want an authentic, immersive day outside Reykjavik, this tour is likely to leave you with memories of an otherworldly landscape that few other places can match.

You can check availability for your dates here: