Landmannalaugar is one of Iceland’s most striking landscapes, famous for its vivid rhyolite mountains, geothermal hot springs, and unusual volcanic terrain. It’s a place where natural beauty and geological wonder collide, making it an ideal location for guided tours. We particularly enjoy experiences that combine stunning scenery with insightful commentary, like the Reykjavík: Landmannalaugar Hike with Photos & Valley of Tears, which offers a comprehensive taste of the highlands’ colors, geothermal pools, and striking canyons. Whether you’re into hiking, photography, or simply want a safe way to explore this remote wilderness, Landmannalaugar delivers.
In this list, we cover two distinct types of tours: a full-day hiking adventure that explores the area’s natural highlights in depth, and a photography-focused jeep tour that captures the highlands’ wild colors and textures. Both are excellent choices, depending on your interests and physical comfort level. Here’s what you need to know about each.
1. Reykjavíkur: Landmannalaugar Hike w. Photos & Valley of Tears
At number 1, this Reykjavík: Landmannalaugar Hike w. Photos & Valley of Tears hits the mark for its balanced itinerary, scenic diversity, and detailed commentary. Priced at $185 per person, the trip lasts about 11 hours — a full day that’s worth every penny if you’re after a true highlands experience. The tour begins with pickup from eight different Reykjavik locations, making it convenient no matter where you stay.
The day includes a two-hour bus ride into the highlands, where you’ll witness breathtaking landscapes like colorful rhyolite mountains and vast obsidian fields. Stops include Hjálparfoss, a beautiful waterfall with multiple cascades, and the stunning Sigöldugljúfur canyon, known as the “Valley of Tears” — a narrow gorge with waterfalls feeding a bright blue river. Throughout the hike and sightseeing, you’ll have opportunities to relax in natural hot pools and photograph some of Iceland’s most iconic scenery. The guide’s geological insights and humor make this tour engaging and memorable, as reflected in numerous 5-star reviews praising the knowledgeable leadership and smooth logistics.
One highlight is the visit to the Valley of Tears, where the landscape’s otherworldly colors and waterfalls provide excellent photo ops. Despite unpredictable weather, the tour’s flexibility and the chance to soak in the hot springs make it a great pick for active travelers who want a comprehensive highlands experience.
Bottom line: This tour is a fantastic choice for those who want a full day of hiking, sightseeing, and relaxing in natural pools, all led by a friendly and knowledgeable guide. It balances adventure with comfort and offers excellent value for the price.
2. Laugavegur Photography Tour – Capture Iceland’s Wild Heart
At number 2, the Laugavegur Photography Tour is perfect if your main goal is to capture the stunning landscapes of Landmannalaugar through your camera lens. This 12-hour Jeep-based trip is rated 5/5 by a small but enthusiastic group of reviewers, emphasizing its focus on adventure and photography. The tour is led by a local guide who knows the best spots to get perfect shots of the vivid mountain colors, geothermal features, and volcanic terrain.
What sets this tour apart is its emphasis on photography techniques and the chance to explore lesser-visited vantage points. The guide shares insights into the area’s geologic secrets, helping you understand the landscape’s formation as you shoot. The trip’s logistics allow for flexible stops, giving ample time to frame your shots and enjoy the view. Since it’s a Jeep tour, the ride over rough terrain isn’t as bumpy as a full-day hike, making it a more accessible option for travelers with limited fitness or those wanting a more relaxed day.
While this tour doesn’t include hiking, it offers a more relaxed pace with plenty of opportunities for creative photography, making it ideal for travelers keen on capturing the Icelandic highlands’ dramatic colors and textures. If you’re a photographer or just want to see the beautiful landscape from a comfortable vantage point, this is a superb choice.
Bottom line: For those seeking a dedicated photography experience with expert guidance, this tour offers high-quality scenery with an emphasis on capturing Iceland’s wild beauty at your own pace.
How to Choose
Choosing between these options depends on your interests and energy level. If you’re eager to hike, explore canyons, and soak in hot springs, the Reykjavík: Landmannalaugar Hike is hard to beat. It provides a full immersion into the landscape, perfect for active travelers who want to experience everything the area has to offer.
On the other hand, if your main goal is taking stunning photos without strenuous activity, the Laugavegur Photography Tour is a flexible, comfortable way to get spectacular images of the highlands’ most photogenic spots. It suits travelers who prefer a more relaxed pace but still want to see the highlights.
Consider your budget, physical fitness, and whether you prefer a guided hike or a photography-focused adventure. Both tours operate in good weather seasons, but Iceland’s weather can be unpredictable — always check for availability and book early.
Final Thoughts
Both of these tours showcase the stunning diversity of Landmannalaugar’s volcanic landscape — from rugged hikes to picture-perfect vistas. The full-day hike offers a deeper dive into the terrain, perfect for adventurous travelers or those wanting a physically active day. The photography tour provides a more relaxed, visually-oriented experience that’s ideal if you want to focus on capturing the landscape’s vibrant colors.
If you’re visiting Iceland and want to make the most of your time in the highlands, both options are excellent. For active explorers, the hike is a fulfilling way to connect closely with the landscape. For shutterbugs or travelers seeking a smoother ride, the photography tour offers a stress-free way to get stunning shots. Whatever you choose, booking early will ensure you don’t miss out on these unforgettable experiences.
