Landmannalaugar and Hekla Volcano Day Tour
From colourful rhyolite hills and geothermal pools to the lava fields of one of Iceland's most active volcanoes.
The Landmannalaugar and Hekla volcano day tour is Iceland's most rewarding single-day highland excursion, combining geothermal bathing, surreal volcanic landscapes, and panoramic views at 1,000 metres above sea level. At 11 hours, it is the longest offering in the day-trip category, yet the difficulty rating remains easy, making it accessible to a wide range of travellers. Bring a swimsuit, a towel, and a sense of curiosity.
The journey begins by heading south from Reykjavik before turning inland alongside the river Þjórsá, Iceland's longest river at 230 kilometres. Fed by the Hofsjökull glacier, this waterway carves through a valley notable for lush vegetation, river islands, and the vast Þjórsárhraun lava field on its eastern bank — a legacy of one of the largest post-Ice Age lava flows ever recorded in Iceland.
The first stop is Hjálparfoss, a double waterfall at the confluence of the rivers Þjórsá and Fossa. The name of the surrounding area, meaning Help, reflects the relief that travellers on the old Sprengisandur route felt when they reached green pastures where their horses could graze after crossing the barren interior highlands. Ash layers from Hekla's eruptions are still visible throughout the valley.
The tour then enters the Fjallabak Nature Reserve, protected since 1978. The reserve's name translates roughly as behind the mountains, and its remoteness is part of its character: deep valleys, long rivers, and a near-total absence of infrastructure give it a quality unlike anywhere else in Iceland. The landscape is shaped by rhyolite, a volcanic rock whose oxidised iron and mineral content — including sulphur and silica — produce the vivid reds, oranges, greens, and yellows that define the area.
Tour Highlights
Soak in the natural geothermal pools at Landmannalaugar, known for centuries as the People's Pools.
Witness the multicoloured rhyolite hills of the Fjallabak Nature Reserve, one of Iceland's most photographed highland landscapes.
Drive through the lava fields of Hekla, an active stratovolcano that last erupted in 2000 and stands 1,491 metres tall.
Visit Hjálparfoss, a scenic double waterfall with layers of volcanic ash visible in the surrounding rock formations.
Reach approximately 1,000 metres above sea level for panoramic views over the surrounding highland terrain.
Pass through Domadalur valley and observe obsidian lava fields formed by rapidly cooled high-viscosity rhyolitic flows.
Follow the Þjórsá river valley, where national forestry plantations and glacier-fed waterways define the lowland approach to the highlands.
Itinerary
Departing the Reykjavik area, the route heads south before turning inland to follow the Þjórsá river. The valley showcases lush riparian vegetation, multiple river islands, and the Þjórsárhraun lava field on the eastern bank.
The first stop is this elegant double waterfall near the confluence of the Þjórsá and Fossa rivers. Historically, this was a critical waypoint for travellers on the Sprengisandur highland route, providing grazing ground and fresh water.
The highlight of the day, Landmannalaugar sits within the Fjallabak Nature Reserve and is renowned for its multicoloured rhyolite mountains and natural geothermal pools. The Laugarhraun lava field, formed in 1477, frames the bathing area. Swimwear and a towel are recommended.
Heading west from Landmannalaugar, the tour passes through this quiet valley with a seasonal lake and patches of green summer vegetation. The western end of the valley gives way to the obsidian lava field known as Domadalshraun.
The final major stop brings the tour to the slopes of Hekla, Iceland's most historically significant active volcano. The road climbs to around 1,000 metres, offering sweeping views across lava fields and the surrounding highlands, weather permitting.
What Is Included
Included
- Professional guided transport throughout the tour
- Entry into the Fjallabak Nature Reserve area
- Stops at Hjálparfoss, Landmannalaugar, and Hekla lava fields
- Access to natural geothermal bathing pools at Landmannalaugar
Not Included
- Meals and beverages
- Personal travel insurance
- Gratuities for guides
- Any items of a personal nature
Important Information
Reserve Your Place on This Highland Journey
Landmannalaugar and Hekla together make up one of the most geologically dramatic day routes in Iceland. Availability is limited and demand is high during the summer season.
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