Landmannalaugar Hike & the Valley of Tears from RVK & Selfoss

If you’re dreaming of Iceland’s wild, colorful landscapes without the hassle of navigating challenging roads yourself, this full-day Landmannalaugar hike tour from Reykjavik can be a solid choice. Marketed as an adventure for outdoorsy types, it promises a day packed with stunning scenery, expert guides, and a relaxing soak in natural hot springs—all organized for you.

What we really love about this experience is how it simplifies a trip to the Highlands, making the rugged beauty of Landmannalaugar accessible without the need for a 4×4 or complex planning. Plus, the group size is limited to 19, which helps keep things intimate and more engaging. Yet, one thing to consider is the long day involved—11 hours can feel quite full, especially if you’re not a fan of early mornings or extended travel.

This tour is best suited for those who enjoy outdoor activities, love scenic hikes, and want a taste of Iceland’s volcanic wilderness in a single day. If you’re traveling with a sense of adventure and are comfortable with some off-road driving and moderate hiking, you’ll likely find this trip a highlight of your Iceland visit.

Key Points

• Convenience: All transportation and guided hikes are included, removing logistical worries.
• Stunning Views: Expect vibrant rhyolite mountains, lava fields, waterfalls, lakes, and rivers.
• Hot Springs: Bring a swimsuit and towel for a relaxing soak at the end of the day.
• Group Size: Limited to 19 travelers, ensuring a more personalized experience.
• Weather Factors: The tour is weather-dependent; poor conditions might lead to cancellation or alternative plans.
• Value for Money: At $190 per person, it offers a comprehensive, guided day out with many highlights.
• Highlights for Outdoors Enthusiasts: Perfect for those who love hiking, off-road adventures, and unique landscapes.
• Expert Guides: Many reviews praise guides for their knowledge and friendly manner, enriching the experience.

A Closer Look at What You Can Expect

Transportation & Timing

Starting early at 7:30 am, you’ll be picked up from Reykjavik in a Wi-Fi-equipped, air-conditioned vehicle. The journey to the Highlands is as much a part of the adventure as the hike itself, with comfortable seating and scenic views along the way. The tour lasts around 11 hours, giving you plenty of time to explore, hike, and relax. With most travelers booking about two months in advance, it’s clear this is a popular choice, especially during peak seasons.

The Scenic Drive to Landmannalaugar

The drive through Iceland’s interior is pretty much a highlight on its own. Expect a good portion of off-road travel, which is often cited as exciting and scenic, taking you past volcanic terrain and lava fields. The-reviewers praise the driver for handling off-road portions smoothly, making the ride comfortable despite the rugged conditions.

The Hiking Experience

The core of this tour is the 1.5-hour hike in Landmannalaugar, guided by knowledgeable guides who share insights into the area’s volcanic activity and geology. According to reviewers, this hike takes you through incredible mountain scenery, past giant lava flows, colorful rhyolite peaks, and geothermal features. The trail varies in difficulty but generally remains accessible for most fit travelers. Expect to walk amidst fields of vibrant colors and get up close to natural hot springs bubbling in the landscape.

One reviewer highlighted that the hike “cuts in between beautiful mountains and past giant lava fields,” which sounds like a feast for the eyes. And because the group is small, guides are able to personalize the experience, answering questions and pointing out interesting features along the way.

Waterfalls, Lakes & Rivers

The tour also includes some scenic stops beyond Landmannalaugar, with beautiful waterfalls, lakes, and rivers. These are often praised for their tranquility and natural beauty, offering perfect photo ops. As one reviewer put it, “Many incredible views,” and many noted how the scenery is truly unlike anywhere else they’ve seen.

The Hot Springs & Relaxation

After a day of hiking and exploring, the highlight for many is unwinding in the natural hot springs. Be sure to bring a swimsuit and towel, as this is a key part of the experience. The geothermal pool provides a much-needed relaxant after the day’s activities, and many reviews mention how rejuvenating it is, especially after a long hike.

The Value of the Tour

At $190, this tour is priced to include transportation, guide services, and access to one of Iceland’s most iconic landscapes. While it doesn’t include lunch, the guide often offers tips on where to buy food or packed options. Reviewers note the value is high given the array of sights, the expertise of guides, and the convenience of everything being organized.

What’s Not Included

You’ll need to bring your own lunch—there are no meals included in the package. Packing some snacks and water bottles is advised, especially since it’s a full day. Some travelers mention that they appreciated the availability of refilling water bottles at the base of the hike.

Weather & Cancellation

The tour runs in most weather conditions but is subject to cancellation if the weather is particularly poor. This is worth considering if you’re visiting Iceland during a time of unpredictable weather. The good news is that if canceled due to weather, you’ll be offered an alternative date or a full refund.

Authentic Traveler Feedback

Reviews consistently highlight the knowledgeable guides, with many describing them as fun, friendly, and full of interesting facts. One reviewer said their guide was “amazing and fun,” making the long day more enjoyable.

The scenery is, unsurprisingly, the star of the show. Several reviews mention how “stunning” and “breathtaking” the views are, even in less-than-ideal weather. One traveler found the place so magical that even a rainy day didn’t diminish its beauty.

Travelers also appreciate the smooth logistics—from pickup to drop-off—and praise the small group size for ensuring more personal attention. A family review mentioned how the “small group” made for a more engaging experience, perfect for those who want to connect with their guide and fellow travelers.

Notable Downsides

Some mention that the day is long, and they wished for more time at key spots. The tour’s packed schedule means you might feel rushed at some stops, but most agree that the experience is worth it. Also, since it’s a guided group tour, individuals seeking complete flexibility might find the structured timing a bit restrictive.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This trip is best for adventure lovers who enjoy hiking and exploring volcanic landscapes. If you’re comfortable with some off-road driving and want a guided, well-organized day without worrying about logistics, you’ll find this highly valuable.

It’s also suited for those who want a rundown of Landmannalaugar’s highlights in one day, especially if you’re short on time. While not explicitly marketed as family-friendly, travelers with children aged 10 and above have found it manageable—just be prepared for a long day outdoors.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation included?
Yes, the tour includes round-trip transportation from Reykjavik in a Wi-Fi-equipped vehicle.

What should I bring?
Bring a swimsuit and towel for the hot springs, plus comfortable walking shoes and weather-appropriate clothing. Pack snacks and water for the day.

How long is the hike?
The guided hike lasts approximately 1.5 hours, with plenty of time to explore the surrounding scenery.

Can I cancel if the weather is bad?
Yes, cancellations are possible if the weather is poor. You’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Are there any age restrictions?
Most travelers can participate, but the tour is best suited for those comfortable with a full day of outdoor activity. Kids aged 10+ generally handle it well.

Is lunch included?
No, lunch is not included. It’s advisable to bring your own or plan to buy something at a stopover.

What makes this tour different from self-driving?
The guided group ensures you don’t need to worry about navigating tricky roads or planning the route. Plus, the guide provides insights you might miss on your own.

How many people are in the group?
The tour is limited to a maximum of 19 travelers, which helps keep it intimate and personalized.

Is the tour suitable in all seasons?
The tour operates most of the year, but weather can impact the experience. Always check in advance if you’re visiting in the shoulder seasons.

Final Thoughts

If you’re eager to see some of Iceland’s most dramatic highland scenery without the hassle of organizing a DIY trip, this Landmannalaugar tour offers a great balance of ease and adventure. The combination of panoramic views, off-road driving, a rewarding hike, and a relaxing soak in natural hot springs makes for a memorable day. The guides’ knowledge and friendly approach really elevate the experience, making it feel special even on days with less-than-perfect weather.

This tour is particularly worthwhile for outdoor enthusiasts who enjoy active days and want a guided, all-in-one package. While it’s a long day, the variety of sights, the quality of the guides, and the chance to relax in hot springs make it a solid investment in your Icelandic adventure.

Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or a curious traveler keen to see the Icelandic Highlands, this trip delivers plenty of natural beauty and authentic experiences. Just be prepared for the early start and pack accordingly, and you’ll come away with stories and photos that last a lifetime.