Landmannalaugar Hiking, Nature Bath & Háifoss Tour
Rhyolite hills, volcanic craters, hot-spring bathing, and Iceland's fourth-highest waterfall — all in a single full-day journey into the highlands.
A visit to Landmannalaugar takes travelers well beyond the well-worn tourist routes, into a highland reserve defined by colorful rhyolite mountains, ancient lava fields, and natural geothermal pools that invite a well-deserved soak at the end of a scenic hike.
This tour covers a remarkable range of Icelandic geology and landscape within a single day. Travelers pass through river valleys framed by basalt columns, stop at a volcanic crater lake that few visitors ever reach, and stand at the edge of two waterfalls that together drop more than 100 meters into a steep canyon.
The route requires a capable 4x4 highland bus to navigate the rough F-roads leading into the interior. That access barrier is precisely what keeps this region quiet and unspoiled, rewarding those who make the effort with scenery that genuinely stands apart from anything found on the coastal circuit.
Tour Highlights
Háifoss, Iceland's fourth-highest waterfall at 122 meters, shared with its neighbor Granni in a dramatic canyon setting.
A natural hot-spring bath in the heart of the Landmannalaugar highland reserve after a scenic guided hike.
Hnausapollur volcanic crater lake, formed over 1,200 years ago during the simultaneous eruption of Barðabunga and Torfajökull volcanoes.
Colorful rhyolite hills and lava fields within the 470 km² Fjallabak Nature Reserve, a hiker's highland paradise.
Hjálparafoss double waterfall, where two of Iceland's major rivers converge against a backdrop of ancient basalt columns.
The starting point of the famous 55 km Laugavegur trail to Thorsmörk, one of Iceland's most celebrated multi-day treks.
Exclusive 4x4 highland bus access to remote F-road terrain not reachable by standard tourist vehicles.
Itinerary Overview
The first stop is at this double waterfall set within Þjórsárdalur valley, where the Þjórsá and Fossá rivers meet. Striking basalt column formations — remnants of a Hekla eruption — frame the falls on both sides. The name translates to "Help Falls," a reference to the relief the pool once offered travelers heading north.
Also known as Bláhlynur for the vivid turquoise hue of its water, this crater lake sits quietly off the main tourist path. It was formed during a massive simultaneous eruption of Barðabunga and Torfajökull more than 1,200 years ago. The setting is peaceful and largely crowd-free, making it one of the trip's most memorable stops.
The centerpiece of the tour, Landmannalaugar sits within the Fjallabak Nature Reserve and is accessible only via rough highland F-roads. A guided hike leads through lava fields and across colorful rhyolite hills before returning to the geothermal hot-spring area. Swimwear is essential for the bathing portion of the visit.
The return leg includes a stop at Háifoss, Iceland's fourth-highest waterfall at 122 meters, alongside its tiered neighbor Granni. Both falls mark the end of the Fossá river before it joins the larger Þjórsá. Flow is at its most impressive in spring when snowmelt fills the upper valleys.
The bus heads west after the waterfall stop, arriving back in the city with enough time for a late dinner. The route covers a significant stretch of Iceland's interior, offering continued views of volcanic highland terrain throughout the journey back.
What's Included and Excluded
Included
- 4x4 Highland bus transport from Reykjavik
- Professional English-speaking guide
- All stops outlined in the itinerary
- Access to Landmannalaugar geothermal hot-spring area
- Guided hike through lava fields and rhyolite hills
Not Included
- Food and beverages
- Swimwear or towel for hot-spring bathing
- Personal travel insurance
- Gratuities for the guide
Important Information
Reserve Your Spot on the Landmannalaugar Tour
This is one of the few day tours that reaches the Icelandic highlands, including the exclusive stop at Háifoss — Iceland's fourth-highest waterfall. Availability is limited and the season is short.
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