Laki Crater Super Jeep Private Tour
A full-day highland adventure through volcanic craters, canyon trails, and hidden waterfalls in the Vatnajökull National Park region
The Laki Crater private super jeep tour takes small groups deep into the Icelandic highlands along the rugged F206 mountain road, reaching a volcanic landscape shaped by one of history's most consequential eruptions. This is a full-day private expedition designed for travellers who want genuine access to remote terrain with expert local guidance.
The Laki volcanic system, known in Icelandic as Skaftáreldar, erupted between 1783 and 1784, releasing a fissure system that reshaped the surrounding landscape and triggered a period of profound hardship across Iceland. Driving through the lava fields on the way to the craters, guides provide historical context that brings the scale of that event into focus.
Because the F206 road requires a capable four-wheel-drive vehicle and involves river crossings, the area remains well off the standard tourist circuit. The private format means the itinerary can be adjusted to suit the group, whether that involves a shorter walk at the canyon or the full two-and-a-half-hour hike to the summit of Laki.
The tour runs from the 15th of June to the 15th of September, coinciding with the window when highland roads are passable and weather conditions allow safe travel on the mountain tracks. Pickup is available from hotels in Kirkjubæjarklaustur and from the N1 gas station in the village.
Tour Highlights
Laki Crater, a dramatic volcanic fissure system formed during the 1783–1784 eruptions, sits at the heart of this expedition and offers panoramic highland views from its summit.
Fjaðrárgljúfur Canyon is a narrow, winding gorge carved by the Fjaðrá river, accessible via an easy 30-minute trail or from a dedicated viewing platform above the waterfall.
Fagrifoss waterfall sits on a quiet, low-traffic route into the highlands and is widely considered one of Iceland's most scenic falls despite receiving relatively few visitors.
Tjarnargígur Crater is among the most visually striking of the many fissures created during the Laki eruption sequence, offering a close-up view of the crater's structure and scale.
Travel is conducted in a specialized super jeep equipped with satellite phone and VHF radio, making it suitable for the river crossings and rough terrain of the F206 highland track.
The route passes through the Vatnajökull National Park, where park rangers are occasionally present and the protected landscape adds an additional layer of natural context to the journey.
The private format allows the programme to be adjusted for the group, including optional hiking at multiple stops and flexible pacing throughout the day.
Itinerary Overview
The tour begins with pickup from hotels in Kirkjubæjarklaustur or the N1 gas station in the village. Shortly after departure, the group leaves the main road and heads toward the highland plateau along the F206 mountain track.
The first stop is Fjaðrárgljúfur, a narrow canyon with the Fjaðrá river running along its floor and a series of small waterfalls visible from the trail above. Those who prefer not to hike can take in the view from the sightseeing platform at the canyon rim.
Continuing up into the highlands, the route passes Fagrifoss, a waterfall tucked along a quiet path that sees far fewer visitors than its natural quality warrants. It marks the transition into the more remote section of the route.
The group arrives at Laki crater for a lunch break, using the on-site facilities before optional hiking. The hike to the crater summit takes approximately two and a half hours return, with shorter routes available for those who prefer a less demanding walk.
After Laki, the expedition continues to Tjarnargígur, one of the most impressive individual craters within the fissure system created during the 1783–1784 eruptions. The site offers a clear view of the crater's structure and the surrounding lava field.
The tour descends back to the lowlands and returns to Kirkjubæjarklaustur for drop-off at the original pickup locations. Total journey time is eight to nine hours from departure.
What Is Included
Included
- Pickup and drop-off at hotels and the N1 gas station in Kirkjubæjarklaustur
- Private day tour in a 4x4 super jeep suitable for highland roads and river crossings
- Professional local guide with highland expertise
- Flexible programme adapted to the group's needs and preferences
- Vehicle equipped with satellite phone and VHF radio for emergency backup
Not Included
- Lunch pack (guests are asked to bring their own food for the day)
- Hiking boots or appropriate footwear (guests' own responsibility)
- Warm, waterproof outdoor clothing (guests' own responsibility)
- Headwear and gloves
- Personal travel insurance
Important Information
Reserve Your Private Laki Crater Expedition
This private super jeep tour offers a rare opportunity to explore the volcanic highlands of southern Iceland with a professional guide and a fully equipped off-road vehicle. Availability is limited to the summer highland season, so early booking is recommended.
Book Now
