Landmannalaugar Hike and Hot Springs from Reykjavik & Hella

Thinking about a day trip from Reykjavik that combines Iceland’s stunning highland scenery with a relaxing soak? This Landmannalaugar Hike and Hot Springs tour from Reykjavik and Hella offers a solid way to experience some of Iceland’s most colorful landscapes without the hassle of organizing transport yourself. While it’s a full day packed with sights and activity, it’s particularly well-suited for travelers who appreciate scenic hikes and are okay with a bit of an early start.

What makes this tour stand out? First, we love the small group setting, which makes the experience more intimate and personalized. Second, the guides’ expertise really shines through—they’re knowledgeable and friendly, sharing interesting tidbits about the landscape and geothermal features. That said, a possible downside to keep in mind is the timing and length: if you’re expecting a leisurely day with ample downtime, this might feel a bit rushed, especially given the 13-hour duration. It’s ideal for those who want a concentrated dose of Iceland’s most colorful highlands and don’t mind a long day of travel.

This experience is perfect for travelers who enjoy moderate hiking, want to see Landmannalaugar’s famous rhyolite mountains, and are looking for an easy way to access the highlands with guided insight. If you’re traveling with friends or solo and love nature, this could be a memorable addition to your Iceland itinerary. But if you prefer more flexibility or longer hikes, you might want to consider other options.

Key Points

• Small group tours create a more personal experience and better interaction.
• The guided hike offers a good overview of Landmannalaugar’s geological wonders.
• Relaxing in natural hot springs is a highlight, though remember entry isn’t included.
• The tour’s timing is tight, making it a full, but potentially rushed, day.
• The guides are praised for their knowledge and friendly approach.
• Price is reasonable given the rich scenery and included services, but food and hot spring entry are extra.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect on the Tour

This full-day adventure kicks off early in the morning, with pickup options from several convenient spots in Reykjavik and a separate stop in Hella. The early start (around 6:30 AM in Reykjavik) means you’ll need to be ready, but it pays off with a full day of exploration.

Transport and Transfers: The journey begins with about 1.5 hours from Reykjavik to Hella, then another roughly 2.3-hour drive to Landmannalaugar. The coach has Wi-Fi on board, which can be a relief during the long drives, especially if you want to catch up on photos or chat with fellow travelers.

Arrival at Landmannalaugar: Expect to reach the base camp around 11 AM. The landscape here is unlike anything else—colorful rhyolite mountains, vast lava fields, and geothermal activity that constantly remind you Iceland’s volcanic power.

Guided Hiking: Starting around 11:10 AM, the hike lasts about 5 hours. It’s described as “easy,” but you should be prepared for uneven trails and stream crossings. Your guide will lead you through this surreal environment, pointing out geothermal vents, lava formations, and explaining the landscape’s volcanic origins. The trail offers plenty of photo opportunities—think striking mountain colors, steaming vents, and expansive vistas.

Break and Hot Springs: After your hike, you’ll get roughly 50 minutes of free time. Here’s your chance to soak in the famous hot springs—bring your swimsuit and towel! Many reviews highlight the hot springs as a major highlight, with some travelers noting it’s a perfect way to unwind after the trek.

Return Journey: The bus departs Landmannalaugar around 4 PM, heading back towards Reykjavik with a quick stop in Hella for restrooms and snacks. Expect to arrive back in Reykjavik around 8 PM, making it a long day but packed with unforgettable sights.

The Landmannalaugar Landscape and the Hiking Experience

Once you’re in Landmannalaugar, the landscape immediately captures your attention. The volcano’s rhyolite mountains glow in shades of red, pink, yellow, and green—an artist’s palette carved by volcanic activity. The lava fields stretch out like a rugged wilderness, and geothermal steam rises from vents and cracks, giving the area a lively, almost otherworldly feel.

The hike itself is designed to be accessible, but it’s not just about the walking. Our guides, as some travelers noted, are impressive at sharing their insights and keeping the group’s energy positive. One reviewer mentioned that Carmen, their guide, created a relaxed, friendly vibe and shared her knowledge with humor, making the long day enjoyable.

The trails take you over varied terrain—some uphill sections, stream crossings, and flat stretches—offering a good mix for most fitness levels. If you’re accustomed to walking, you might find the hike more manageable, even enjoyable. It’s not overly strenuous but offers enough variety to keep you engaged.

Many visitors mention the landscape’s spectacular beauty—bright mountain colors contrasted with the black lava fields, making it a photographer’s dream. Guides often point out geothermal activity, such as bubbling vents and steaming cracks, adding a scientific touch to the natural spectacle.

Relaxing in the Hot Springs

One of the trip’s big draws is the opportunity to unwind in the natural hot springs. It’s a simple pleasure—soaking in warm mineral-rich water surrounded by Iceland’s stark landscape. Reviewers recommend bringing your swimsuit and towel, as entry isn’t included in the tour price.

The hot springs are often described as “famous” or “iconic,” and many travelers find that a highlight after a long hike. A few reviews mention that the soak was the perfect finish to the day, with many taking advantage of the opportunity to relax and reflect on the scenery. Keep in mind that this part of the day is fairly brief—about 30 minutes—so if you’re craving a longer bath, you’ll need to plan accordingly.

The Practical Side: Timing, Price, and Group Size

This tour is priced around $187 per person, which, when you consider the transportation, guided hike, and access to such a stunning location, offers fair value. The price doesn’t include food, drinks, or the hot springs entry fee, so budget extra for snacks, meals, and the soak.

The group size is small, typically making for a more intimate experience. Many reviews appreciate the personal attention, especially from guides who are described as knowledgeable, friendly, and humorous. The bilingual guides (English and Spanish) contribute to a relaxed atmosphere, though some travelers mentioned that guide language skills could vary, slightly affecting the experience for non-Spanish speakers.

The full-day schedule is tight, and the long travel times mean you’re in transit for much of the day. If you prefer a slower, more leisurely day with more hiking or free exploration, this tour might feel rushed. But if you’re eager to cover the highlights efficiently, it’s a solid choice.

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The Experience and Reviews

Reading through reviews, it’s clear that most travelers come away feeling satisfied. Praise often goes to the passionate guides, who share their insights with humor and warmth. Many mention the breathtaking scenery—from the colorful mountains to the geothermal features—and highlight the hot springs as a must-do.

One traveler from Spain shared, “Carmen treated the tour participants super nicely and created a really relaxed, feel-good vibe. She also shared her knowledgeable insights on the landscape, flora, and fauna with a touch of humor. It was an unforgettable day.” Others emphasized the value for money, even if the price might seem high initially, especially compared to local prices in other countries.

A few critiques note that the length of the hike is relatively short—about 2 hours on the trail— and that the tour can be somewhat rushed, with some group mismatches affecting the overall experience. Plus, the guide’s language skills may vary, impacting non-Spanish speakers’ experience slightly.

Who Is This Tour Best Suited For?

This trip is ideal for travelers who want a guided, organized way to see Landmannalaugar’s striking scenery without planning their own transport. It suits those who enjoy moderate hikes and are comfortable with early mornings and long days. If you’re looking for an authentic, small-group experience with knowledgeable guides, this tour ticks those boxes.

If you’re traveling with friends or solo travelers who appreciate natural beauty and geothermal wonders, you’ll find plenty to love here. However, if your priority is more extensive hiking or you prefer flexible schedules, consider whether this guided day trip fits your style.

FAQ

Is transportation included?
Yes, pickup and drop-off are included at several designated stops in Reykjavik and in Hella. The coach journey provides Wi-Fi, making the long drives a bit more comfortable.

How long is the hike?
The guided hike lasts about 5 hours, covering a scenic route through Landmannalaugar’s landscapes. It’s considered an easy trail, but uneven terrain and stream crossings require some attention.

Can I relax in the hot springs?
Yes, you can enjoy the natural hot springs during your free time after the hike. Bring a swimsuit and towel, as entry isn’t included in the tour price.

What’s the size of the group?
The tour is designed for small groups, which enhances the experience’s intimacy and allows guides to share more personalized insights.

What should I bring?
Dress in layers, wear waterproof gear, and bring enough water and a packed lunch for the hike. Optional items include a swimsuit and towel for the hot springs.

Is this tour suitable for children or families?
The tour involves a fair amount of walking on uneven terrain and stream crossings, so it may not be ideal for very young children or those with mobility issues.

Are meals included?
No, meals and drinks are not included, so plan to bring snacks or purchase them during the Hella stop.

Final Thoughts

This Landmannalaugar tour offers a well-rounded day of scenic beauty, gentle hiking, and relaxation in Iceland’s geothermal waters. Its small group format and knowledgeable guides make it a pleasant way to experience the Highlands without the stress of independent planning. While the schedule is packed and might feel a bit hurried for some, the stunning landscapes and the chance to soak in natural hot springs are truly worth it.

If you’re eager to see Iceland’s colorful mountains, learn about geothermal activity from friendly guides, and enjoy a soothing hot spring experience, this trip is a solid choice. It’s especially suited for travelers who value guided experiences, are comfortable with some early mornings, and want a snapshot of the highlands without committing to multiple days of trekking.

For those seeking a comprehensive, scenic, and memorable day out, this tour delivers on many fronts. Just remember to bring your sense of adventure, a good pair of walking shoes, and your swimsuit—your Icelandic highland adventure awaits.

You can check availability for your dates here: