Reykjavík: Landmannalaugar & Valley of Tears in 4×4 Super

If you’re dreaming of experiencing Iceland’s rugged beauty, this Landmannalaugar & Valley of Tears tour offers a fantastic way to see some of the most striking landscapes with comfort and flexibility. We haven’t done it ourselves, but based on reviews and descriptions, it looks like an engaging, well-rounded adventure suited for travelers who want more than just a bus ride—think off-road access, personalized guide input, and plenty of photo opportunities.

What really caught our eye are the small-group size and the chance to relax in natural hot springs after a day of exploring. We also appreciate the focus on geology, volcanic history, and local folklore, which can turn a scenic trip into a meaningful experience. The only thing to consider is that it’s quite a long day—around 11 hours—so this isn’t ideal if you prefer shorter excursions or have limited stamina for full-day tours. It’s best suited for those craving a mix of adventure, comfort, and cultural insights.

If you’re someone who loves getting off the beaten path, soaking in hot springs, and capturing unforgettable photos, this trip could be just right. However, if you prefer a more relaxed or less structured experience, you might want to explore other options.

Key Points

• Small-group Super Jeep ensures comfort and access to rougher terrain.
• Flexible hiking options cater to different fitness levels and interests.
• Scenic stops include waterfalls, lava formations, and panoramic viewpoints—perfect for photography.
• The tour combines sightseeing, geology, folklore, and hot spring relaxation into one day.
• It’s an 11-hour adventure with pickup from multiple locations in Reykjavík.
• The tour offers free cancellation and flexible booking, making it easier to plan.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect from This High-Adventure Iceland Tour

This tour is designed as a comprehensive day trip into Iceland’s mesmerizing highlands, mixing scenic stops, gentle hikes, and restful moments—all in a cozy, small-group setting. It starts early, with pickup from multiple convenient locations across Reykjavík, and heads south into the Fjallabak Nature Reserve.

The Journey Begins: Itinerary and Transportation

You’ll hop into a comfortable minibus, but the real fun begins once you switch to the Super Jeep—a rugged, four-wheel-drive vehicle built for off-road access. This means you’re not limited to paved roads; instead, you’ll carve your way through volcanic landscapes, lava fields, and narrow mountain passes. The journey is roughly two hours from Reykjavík to the highlands, with a brief stop in Hveragerði for a quick break, and another rest at Frostastadavatn Lake for photos.

Landmannalaugar: A Rainbow of Rhyolite Peaks

Once in Landmannalaugar, you’ll find yourself in a landscape that looks like it belongs on another planet—colorful rhyolite mountains glow in shades of red, yellow, and pink. This area is famous for its obsidian fields and volcanic terrain. You’ll have about three hours here, which provides ample time for a walk or simply soaking in the stunning views.

The tour offers hiking options—either a relaxed walk or a more moderate trek. For those interested, there’s an optional ~2 hour guided hike to the Sulphur Wave, a vivid geothermal feature worth the effort. If hiking isn’t your thing, you can explore solo within the same time frame, or opt for more challenging routes if you’re feeling adventurous.

Soaking in Warmth: The Hot Springs Experience

A major highlight here is the opportunity to bathe in natural hot pools with a view of the highlands. This is a perfect way to unwind after some walking, and many reviews praise the relaxing atmosphere and the scenery—nothing beats soaking with a view of rugged mountains and open sky.

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Exploring Lava and Waterfalls: Scenic Stops

After Landmannalaugar, we head to Laugahraun, a lava field with guided tours that shed light on the volcanic activity that shaped the region. Then, you get to visit Hnausapollur, a striking crater lake, and the Valley of Tears (Sigöldugljúfur), famous for waterfalls cascading into clear rivers amid colorful cliffs. Each stop offers great photo ops and a chance to learn about the volcanic and geological history of Iceland.

Additional Highlights and Stops

The tour continues with visits to Hjálparfoss, a picturesque waterfall, and other scenic viewpoints. Throughout, your guide shares local folklore and legends, adding depth and context to the landscapes. The journey back to Reykjavík takes around 1.5 hours, concluding a busy day filled with natural beauty and cultural insights.

The Experience: How It Feels to Be There

Reviewers consistently mention the stunning vistas as a major draw. “We loved the way Landmannalaugar’s colorful rocks looked like a painter’s palette,” says one. The landscapes are truly otherworldly—vivid volcanic terrain that changes with the light and weather, promising endless photo opportunities.

The small group setting is frequently praised for making the day more intimate and personalized. Guides are knowledgeable about geology and folklore, which enriches the experience and helps you appreciate the scenery beyond just the visual. Many mention the flexibility of the hikes, which is great for those who want to tailor their experience or take breaks as needed.

The hot springs are described as a peaceful, rejuvenating ending to a busy day, and several travelers note that they’re surprised by how clean and well-maintained the pools are, given their natural setting.

What Could Be Better?

While the tour covers a lot in one day, it’s a long and physically demanding experience—especially if you choose to hike or explore extensively. Some reviews hint at the early start, with pickup around 7:30 AM, which might be tiring but is necessary to make the most of the daylight hours.

Since the tour involves off-road driving, expect some rougher rides—this isn’t a smooth highway trip. It can be bumpy, so if you’re prone to motion sickness or prefer ultra-comfortable cars, that’s worth considering.

Is This Tour Worth It?

Considering the price, the value lies in the combination of comfort, flexibility, and access to remote areas. The small-group format and expert guide support make it more personalized than large bus tours, and you get to see a truly diverse set of scenery in one day.

For travelers who love photography, natural landscapes, geology, and soaking in hot springs, this trip delivers on all counts. However, if you’re looking for a more relaxed, less full-on adventure, or if you’re not comfortable with early mornings and long drives, it might be worth exploring other options or shorter tours.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This is an ideal experience if you’re eager to see some of Iceland’s most colorful and dramatic landscapes in a single day, with the added bonus of a small-group vibe. It suits explorers, photo enthusiasts, and those interested in volcanic geology or folklore. It’s also a solid choice if you want a comfortable yet adventurous day, with opportunities to relax in hot springs.

It’s less suited for travelers seeking a leisurely stroll, or people with mobility issues, given the long day and some uneven terrain. Also, if you’re traveling with very young children or prefer a shorter, less physically demanding outing, you might want to consider alternative options.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 11 hours, including pickup, driving, sightseeing, and hot spring time.

What should I bring?
Bring layers suitable for variable weather, sturdy shoes for hiking, a camera, and a towel if you want to soak in the hot springs.

Is the tour suitable for all fitness levels?
There are optional hikes, so you can choose a relaxed walk or a more moderate route. The flexibility allows you to tailor it to your comfort.

Do I need to be prepared for off-road driving?
Yes, the Super Jeep will take you onto rougher terrain, so expect some bumpy rides—this is part of the adventure.

Can I skip the hot springs?
Yes, if you prefer, you can explore or relax elsewhere during the hot spring stop.

What kind of guide will I have?
The guides are knowledgeable about geology, volcanic history, local stories, and photography support, making the day both educational and enjoyable.

Is this tour family-friendly?
The description doesn’t specify, so it’s best for travelers comfortable with a full day of travel and some physical activity.

What are the pickup points?
There are 11 pickup options across Reykjavík, making it convenient to find a location close to your accommodation.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is this tour good for photography?
Absolutely. The scenic stops, volcanic landscapes, waterfalls, and panoramic views provide plenty of photo opportunities.

Final Thoughts

This Reykjavík: Landmannalaugar & Valley of Tears tour strikes a great balance between adventure, comfort, and education. You’ll get access to some of Iceland’s most vibrant natural features, enjoy a scenic drive, and end the day soaking in natural hot springs—all with a small-group atmosphere that makes it feel personal and special.

It’s perfect for those who want to experience Iceland’s highlands in depth without sacrificing comfort. If you’re prepared for a full day of exploration and want to learn about volcanoes, colorful mountains, and waterfalls, this tour offers a memorable way to do it.

For anyone craving a mix of scenic beauty, geological insight, and relaxing moments, it’s a solid choice—especially if capturing stunning photos is a priority. Just be ready for a day that’s as energetic or relaxed as you want, with plenty of opportunities to tailor your experience.

Remember: Iceland’s weather can be unpredictable, so bring layers, waterproofs, and a good attitude. The landscapes are unforgettable, and this tour delivers a taste of Iceland’s wild heart in one satisfying day.

You can check availability for your dates here: