Landmannalaugar Full-Day Guided Tour by 4x4 from Reykjavik

  • 11hDuration
  • Max 12 peopleGroup Size
  • EnglishSpeaking Guide
  • Mobile ticketAccepted

About this experience

Duration11 Hours
Group SizeSmall Group
Starts AtReykjavik, Iceland
LanguagesEnglish
Highland Super Jeep Tour

Landmannalaugar Hike and the Valley of Tears by 4x4 Super Jeep

Colorful rhyolite mountains, steaming geothermal pools, and a canyon that stops you in your tracks.


This full-day journey takes you deep into Iceland's highlands aboard a 4x4 Super Jeep, delivering an immersive encounter with Landmannalaugar — one of the country's most visually dramatic landscapes, where volcanic geology, geothermal heat, and raw wilderness converge.

The Fjallabak Nature Reserve is home to some of the most unusual terrain on the planet. Ancient lava fields stretch across the ground beside vivid mountains streaked with sulfur yellow, iron red, and obsidian black — a palette shaped entirely by centuries of volcanic activity.

Traveling by Super Jeep unlocks routes and viewpoints inaccessible to standard vehicles, allowing for spontaneous stops, better photography opportunities, and a genuine sense of exploration throughout the day.

Beyond the famous geothermal pool and highland hike, the tour also visits Sigöldugljúfur — the Valley of Tears — a canyon filled with countless spring-fed waterfalls and crystal-clear streams that has become one of Iceland's most captivating natural discoveries.

Tour Highlights

Hike through the colorful rhyolite slopes of Brennisteinsalda, the Sulphur Wave, surrounded by steaming vents and volcanic minerals.

Soak in a natural geothermal hot spring at Landmannalaugar, set amid wild highland scenery with no infrastructure in sight.

Walk across the Laugahraun lava field, formed in 1477, where shiny obsidian — historically called Dragon Glass — covers the ground.

Stand at Sigöldugljúfur canyon, the Valley of Tears, where dozens of spring-fed waterfalls cascade down vivid cliffs into still pools below.

Visit Hjálparfoss, a twin-stepped waterfall framed by distinctive basalt columns, with a history rooted in the ancient highland travel routes.

Discover Hnausapollur crater lake, also known as Bláhylur, formed in 871 AD and still striking for its deep blue water set against red crater walls.

Stop at Frostastaðavatn highland lake, offering a vivid blue reflection of rhyolite mountains and lava fields that rewards any photographer.

Itinerary

1
Frostastaðavatn Lake

The first highland stop is this stunning lake near Landmannalaugar, where vivid blue water reflects the surrounding colorful rhyolite mountains and ancient lava fields. It is a favored viewpoint for photographers and offers a calm introduction to the volcanic landscape ahead.

2
Landmannalaugar — Hike and Natural Pool

You will spend over three hours here, with the option to join a guided two-hour hike up to Brennisteinsalda, passing through lava fields and alongside small geothermal vents. After returning to the huts, there is time to relax in the natural hot spring — bring a swimsuit and towel.

3
Hnausapollur Crater Lake

Also known as Bláhylur, this volcanic crater lake was formed by an eruption in 871 AD. The contrast between the deep cobalt water and the surrounding red crater walls creates a striking and surreal scene.

4
Sigöldugljúfur — The Valley of Tears

This canyon has become one of Iceland's most photographed natural sites, filled with spring-fed streams, small ponds, clear waterfalls, and textured cliff faces. The combination of water, moss, and volcanic rock produces a landscape unlike anywhere else in the highlands.

5
Sigöldufoss Waterfall

Tucked away in the highlands, this waterfall flows from a man-made channel connected to the Sigölduvirkjun dam, creating an unexpected contrast between engineered infrastructure and rugged natural surroundings. Moss-covered lava fields frame the scene beautifully in summer.

6
Hjálparfoss — Help's Fall

The tour closes at this two-tiered waterfall, where water cascades into a wide plunge pool surrounded by geometric basalt columns. The name translates to help, referencing the relief early highland travelers felt when reaching this fertile oasis after crossing the harsh Sprengisandur desert route.

What Is Included

Included

  • Transportation in a 4x4 Super Jeep
  • Professional local guide
  • Guided hike to Brennisteinsalda (optional)
  • Access to natural geothermal pool area
  • All highland fuel and road fees

Not Included

  • Swimsuit and towel (personal gear)
  • Food and beverages
  • Personal travel insurance
  • Gratuities for guide

Important Information

Highland conditions can change rapidly. Dress in warm, waterproof layers regardless of the forecast, and wear sturdy footwear suitable for uneven volcanic terrain.
Duration
Approximately 11 hours including all stops, hike, and travel time from Reykjavik.
Meeting Point
Departure is from Reykjavik. Exact meeting point details are provided after booking confirmation.
What to Bring
Swimsuit and towel for the hot spring, warm and waterproof layers, sturdy walking shoes, snacks and water, and a fully charged camera.
Cancellation
Please review the cancellation policy at the time of booking. Highland tours may be subject to weather-related changes.
Accessibility
The hike involves uneven volcanic terrain and is not suitable for guests with significant mobility limitations. The hot spring area involves a short walk on rough ground.
Age Range
Suitable for most ages. The guided hike is rated easy and appropriate for children and older adults with basic fitness. Confirm any specific requirements at the time of booking.

Reserve Your Spot in the Highlands

Landmannalaugar is only accessible for a limited season each year. Secure your place on this full-day Super Jeep tour to experience Iceland's volcanic interior at its most spectacular.

Book Now

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the hike at Landmannalaugar mandatory?▼
The guided hike to Brennisteinsalda is optional. Guests who prefer not to hike can take a shorter walk, explore the area independently, or relax in the natural geothermal pool instead.
Can I swim in the geothermal pool at Landmannalaugar?▼
Yes, swimming in the natural hot spring is one of the highlights of this tour. Bring your own swimsuit and towel as these are not provided.
When does the Landmannalaugar highland road open?▼
The highland road to Landmannalaugar is typically accessible from late June through early October, depending on snowmelt and road conditions each year. This tour operates during that seasonal window.
What is the difficulty level of this tour?▼
The tour is rated easy. The optional guided hike covers approximately two hours on volcanic terrain with moderate elevation, suitable for guests with a basic level of fitness.
Why is a Super Jeep necessary for this tour?▼
The highland roads leading to Landmannalaugar include river crossings and rough F-roads that require a high-clearance 4x4 vehicle. Standard cars are not permitted on these routes, and the Super Jeep also allows access to additional scenic stops along the way.
What is the Valley of Tears?▼
Sigöldugljúfur, known as the Valley of Tears, is a highland canyon notable for its many small spring-fed waterfalls, clear pools, and colorful cliffs. It has become one of the most photographed natural sites in Iceland's interior in recent years.
LandmannalaugarSuper Jeep TourIceland HighlandsRhyolite MountainsGeothermal PoolValley of TearsSigöldugljúfurVolcanic LandscapeFjallabak Nature ReserveHjálparfossIceland Hiking4x4 Adventure
Last updated: 2025-07-10 | Product ID: landmannalaugar-superjeep-valley-of-tears

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