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Landmannalaugar is a geothermal hot spot nestled in the southern Icelandic Highlands’ Fjallabak Nature Reserve. Its volcanic landscapes are defined by steaming hot springs, colorful rhyolite mountains, and picturesque lava fields. A paradise for hikers and nature enthusiasts, this vibrant mountainous region of Iceland is the starting point for iconic trails like the Laugavegur trek.
The volcanically active Landmannalaugar is the heart of the Fjallabak nature conservation zone, a 47-ha (116.14 acres) large government-protected area. The terrain is a striking mix of geological features, including multicolored mountains in shades of red and green, moss-covered lava fields, and more. While wildlife is sparse, birds such as the Ptarmigan inhabit the area. Landmannalaugar's name, meaning “People’s Pools,” comes from the natural hot springs historically used by Icelanders for bathing.
Steam rises from hot springs, weaving through the vibrant rhyolite mountains. Source: Arctic Adventures
Over centuries, volcanic activity has shaped Landmannalaugar’s striking rhyolite mountains. Unlike typical magma, rhyolitic magma is rich in silica and highly viscous. Once solidified, it creates a vivid array of hues—deep reds, bright yellows, greens, and blues—that change with the light. These colorful formations, combined with steaming vents and hot springs, complete the area's otherworldly landscape.
Soothing hot springs of Landmannalaugar. Photo by Gunnar Gaukur Guthmundsson.
This region is renowned for its soothing natural pools, which have warmed locals and visitors for centuries. The waters of the hot springs at Landmannalaugar originate underground, where magma heats glacier meltwater. Once it emerges to the surface, the liquid maintains a constant 36–40°C (96–104°F) temperature. Rich in minerals, the blue water pools are surrounded by lava fields—free to be enjoyed by visitors!
Dark lava fields add to the surreal landscape of Landmannalaugar. Photo by Gunnar Gaukur.
Landmannalaugar’s lava fields took shape over thousands of years of eruptions from the Brennisteinsalda volcanic system. The most recent, Laugahraun, formed in 1477, making it one of the few Icelandic lava fields to form after Europeans settled on the island. People can explore them through various hiking paths. In some areas, lush green moss covers the black volcanic rock, creating a surreal, otherworldly landscape.
Once fiery, now serene—blue lakes in old volcanic craters. Source: Arctic Adventures.
Landmannalaugar’s lakes are volcanic craters formed by past eruptions and later filled with glacier melt, rainwater, and snow. Their mineral-rich composition makes them some of the most beautiful lakes in Iceland, giving the water a deep blue shade. One of the most popular is Ljótipollur crater lake, ironically nicknamed “Ugly Puddle,” a scenic spot often included in hiking tours.
Landmannalaugar is located deep in the Fjallabak Nature Reserve in the Icelandic Highlands, near the South Coast. Surrounded by volcanic mountains such as Brennisteinsalda and Hrafntinnusker, the area is filled with geological wonders, like the Laugahraun lava field. The region is accessible by car from the west via the F225 and from the north and south via the F208 road. Access to Landmannalaugar by 4x4 is limited to the summer months as the unpaved roads are closed in the winter for safety reasons. Alternatively, visitors can reach this rhyolite mountain range by special buses or guided tours.
Distances from the nearest settlements to Landmannalaugar. Source: Arctic Adventures.
The starting point of the scenic drive to Landmannalaugar is Reykjavík, the capital city of Iceland. It is located 187 km (116 mi) west of the area on the country’s southwest coast. Further to the southwest, Selfoss town, a major access point to South Iceland, sits 138 km (85 mi) from the Landmannalaugar along the Ring Road. The peaceful town of Hella lies 100 km (62 mi) away, offering a quiet stop along the route. Further south, Hvolsvöllur, a historic hamlet with Viking heritage, is 113 km (70 mi) from Landmannalaugar. Beyond the Mýrdalsjökull glacier, at the edge of the South Coast, Vík, a scenic settlement by the black sand beaches, sits 121 km (75 mi) away.
This geothermal wonderland is accessible via the unpaved F225 and F208 routes, mountainous gravel roads that go through challenging Highland terrain. By law and regulation, F-roads in Iceland are intended for 4x4 vehicles. Going with a regular (2WD) car on F-roads can violate rental agreements and might not be covered by insurance. Due to harsh Landmannalaugar weather, these roads are closed in winter and open from mid-to late June to early September. Whether driving yourself or joining a tour, getting to Landmannalaugar from Reykjavík—and vice versa—takes around 3 hours and 30 minutes.
Different Routes That Lead to Landmannalaugar:
F225 - A less-traveled scenic route near the Hekla volcano. It’s rougher than the northern F208 and features a few river crossings along the way.
F208 North - The easiest route, with no major river crossings. It’s beginner-friendly if you’re new to driving in Iceland’s Highlands.
F208 South - The most challenging route, marked by multiple deep river crossings—especially tricky after a good downpour.
Transportation Options:
Self-drive—Landmannalaugar is an excellent choice for solo adventures, among other self-drive tours. A 4WD is required, and drivers should be comfortable with rough F-roads and river crossings. Most rental companies, like Blue Car Rental, require drivers to be at least 20 years old and offer various SUV and 4x4 options.
Highland bus—In summer, when the roads are accessible, the bus from Landmannalaugar to Reykjavik runs daily. Tickets can be bought online to secure a spot. While public transport is unavailable in the Landmannalaugar region, private companies organize transfers.
Guided tours—Landmannalaugar guided tours are ideal for a hassle-free experience with expert-led sightseeing. You don’t need to think about transportation—guides will take care of transfers to and from Reykjavik and take you to the best sights and hikes.
Parking in Landmannalaugar:
Landmannalaugar parking reservation—From June 20 to September 14, visitors can reserve a parking spot through the parka.is website or a phone app.
Arrival time—Reservations are required for vehicles arriving between 9 AM and 4 PM. Outside these hours, a parking fee still applies, but no reservation is needed.
Cost—Fees start at 1,200 ISK (€8.25 / $8.62) for family cars with up to 5 seats and 2,000 ISK (€13.75 / $14.37) for those with 6 to 9 seats.
Landmannalaugar is a paradise for explorers, with many of the prime Iceland hiking trails weaving through its diverse landscape. The geothermal valley also serves as the starting point for the legendary Landmannalaugar trekking route, Laugavegur trek. Some adventurers gather here to simply enjoy hot springs at Landmannalaugar—an ideal location to bathe in naturally warm pools.
Landmannalaugar’s trails cross diverse terrains, including colorful slopes. Source: Arctic Adventures.
There are over 30 Landmannalaugar hiking trails, ranging from simple hikes around the local landmarks to multi-day journeys. A few stand out the most, offering an enormous palette of geological wonders: magnificent slopes that form waves, vast deserts of obsidian rock, solidified lava fields, and warm hot springs. Most of these Icelandic trekking routes start from the campsite near the information center.
The Laugavegur hiking route is a multi-day, 54 km (33 mi) trek through the southern Icelandic Highlands. Hikers get to walk the diverse landscape of Fjallabak Nature Reserve, starting from the geothermally active Landmannalaugar and ending up in the lush Þórsmörk nature reserve. The whole trek is divided into four sections, connected by several huts where people can stay the night.
Difficulty: Moderate to challenging
When open: From June to mid-September
This trail is a scenic 9.3 km (5.7 mi) hike up Brennisteinsalda volcano, where the views of the Landmannalaugar open up. Its name, translating to “Sulfur Wave,” reflects the vibrant hues of its slopes. Along the path, fumaroles release gases—a reminder of the ongoing geothermal activity beneath the surface.
Difficulty: Moderate
When open: From June to mid-September
The Bláhnúkur hike is an 8.4 km (5 mi) route that takes about 3 hours and features steep ascents to panoramic ridges. The mountain’s name, “Blue Peak,” comes from its striking blue-black slopes. For those looking for a longer trek, the Blahnúkúr-Brennisteinsalda Loop extends the route to 10.8 km (6.7 mi).
Difficulty: Challenging
When open: From June to mid-September
Though short, the 3.5 km (2.1 mi) Grænagil trail offers stunning scenery. True to its name, “Green Canyon,” the route winds through rhyolite formations covered in emerald green moss. With relatively flat terrain, it takes just one to two hours to complete, requiring little physical effort.
Difficulty: Easy
When open: From June to mid-September
This 4.7 km (2.9 mi) loop takes you around the Laugahraun lava field, which is located right by the main campsite. It’s one of the more popular routes in Landmannalaugar, with a well-maintained path marked with orange posts. Hikers can complete the walk around the solidified magma in around 2 hours.
Difficulty: Moderate
When open: From June to mid-September
The 12 km (7.4 mi) round-trip hike from Landmannalaugar to Ljótipollur Crater Lake takes about three to four hours and features gradual elevation changes. The best Ljótipollur viewpoint is from the crater rim, where you can take in a panoramic view of contrasting deep red slopes and vivid blue waters.
Difficulty: Moderate
When open: From June to mid-September
Stútur crater is 3.4 km (2.1 mi) from the camping site and right on the path of Ljótipollur loop. The hike takes about an hour to reach the base, with an additional five-minute climb to the rim. From it, you can enjoy the sight of the black slopes with patches of green moss growing on top of it.
Difficulty: Easy
When open: From June to mid-September
The 9.3 km (5.5 mi) route is a more challenging alternative to the Bláhnúkur-Brennisteinsalda loop, but still as rewarding. Hikers can traverse plateaus and river plains, ascend approximately 440 m (1,444 ft), and enjoy breathtaking views of the region, including Laugahraun lava field and the surrounding mountains.
Difficulty: Challenging
When open: From June to mid-September
One of the most strenuous trails around the Landmannalaugar area, the 15.9 km (9.8 mi) route features a demanding 800 m (2,624 ft) ascent up the Skalli mountain. A marked path leads to a snowy summit, where the views open up to green slopes, rhyolite hill waves, and extensive canyons.
Difficulty: Challenging
When open: From June to mid-September
Landmannalaugar natural pools near the campsite. Source: Arctic Adventures.
Many travelers seeking hot spring bathing tours end up in Landmannalaugar. Located in a highly active volcanic zone, its bubbling puddles and steaming vents create some of the most stunning natural geothermal pools in Iceland. Originally called the “pool of the people,” these springs were—and still are—perfect for a soothing soak after a day of hiking.
Landmannalaugar natural pools remain free to enjoy, but see the temperature first—some spots can be surprisingly hot, especially near the edges. No guide is needed, yet it’s wise to stick to the well-known river bathing areas for safety. A convenient choice is the hot spring near the campsite, where cold mountain streams merge with geothermal heat for a comfortable dip. If you decide to bathe, note that you must shower thoroughly beforehand.
For the perfect balance of adventure and ease, explore Landmannalaugar with a guided tour. Source: Arctic Adventures.
The Landmannalaugar geothermal area is vast and filled with numerous trails and naturally heated springs, making it easy to lose track of time while you journey. To make the most of your visit, consider a guided Landmannalaugar tour that balances hot spring visits with scenic hikes. Not only will an expert take you to the must-see landmarks, but you can also choose how you want to experience this one-of-a-time sight of the stunning Icelandic Highlands.
Landmannalaugar Super Jeep Tour: Skip the long walks and get more riding time with our Super Jeep, built for Iceland’s rugged terrain. This tour lets you cover more ground than a hiking tour, with planned stops at Sigöldufoss and Hjálparfoss waterfalls and views of Hekla’s snow-capped volcano peaks.
Landmannalaugar Hiking Tour: Enjoy a 3-hour trek through dramatic volcanic landscapes on an 8-10 km (5-6.2 mi) day trip featuring the colorful Laugahraun lava field and scenic Vondugil canyon. For your complete convenience, we include hassle-free round-trip transportation from Reykjavik.
Landmannalaugar 3-day Tour: Spend three days inside the geothermal wonderland, exploring the area's main highlights. In three days, you’ll ascend up to Suðurnamur peak, walk around Frostastaðavatn Lake, and hike up Bláhnúkur mountain. The trip includes accommodations in a hut, breakfast, lunch, and transportation.
The best time to visit Landmannalaugar is during summer, from mid-June until early September, when F-roads and trails are drivable. During this period, Landmannalaugar weather conditions are generally mild, with temperatures averaging 11°C (51.8°F), occasional rain, but strong winds, plus extended daylight for exploration. However, conditions change in other months. Landmannalaugar in May may still feature lingering snow that blocks some paths, and mountain huts are closed by October. In winter, Landmannalaugar access is challenging for all but experienced local adventurers.
There are two Landmannalaugar accommodation options: staying in a hut or camping in a tent nearby. The Landmannalaugar mountain hut, located near the Laugahraun lava field, provides shelter from bad weather and includes basic facilities like showers and washrooms. Camping is available at the designated Landmannalaugar campsite by the Tourist Information Center, huts, and hot springs. On the other hand, several hotels outside the area are available if you’re looking for a more comfortable stay. (2025 prices)
Landmannalaugar’s history is shaped by volcanic eruptions, forming its colorful mountains and dark lava fields over thousands of years. The red, yellow, and blue hues come from mineral-rich magma, creating Iceland's rainbow mountains. Since medieval times, shepherds have used the area for summer grazing, and travelers have rested here while crossing the Highlands. Here are some fascinating facts about this unique region:
Iceland’s interior is remote and windy. The weather in Landmannalaugar is unstable, with sudden rain, strong winds, and dropping night temperatures even in summer. Driving through the Icelandic Highlands means rough F-roads, challenging for seasoned drivers. To make the most of your trip, it's essential to book huts or tours early, pack warm gear, and follow key tips to stay safe and comfortable in these rugged conditions:
Frostastaðavatn: A scenic lake along the Ljótipollur hiking trail, surrounded by rainbow-colored rhyolite hills and dark lava fields. Lake Frostastaðavatn spans 2.6 km² (1 sq mi) and reaches a depth of 6 m (19.7 ft).
Blahylur Lake (Hnausapollur): A maar lake formed by explosive volcanic activity from Torfajökull and Bárðarbunga. The tranquil blue waters inside Blahylur Crater Lake can be enjoyed from the dramatic slopes surrounding it.
Torfajökull: A rhyolite stratovolcano last active in 1477. Its massive eruption around 870 AD shaped much of Landmannalaugar's landscape. The 8 km × 12 km (11.2 mi × 7.5 mi) Torfajökull caldera is covered with an ice cap that is slowly retreating.
Dómadalur: A valley with a lake that serves as a passageway from Landmannalaugar to Hekla. The opening is flanked by rugged mountains and dark magma fields, but is fully explorable on foot or with a 4x4 vehicle.
Fjallabak Nature Reserve: A protected Highland area known for its lush summer landscapes and diverse geography. Fjallabak features large mountains, obsidian deserts, rivers, lakes, and more volcanic formations.
Sigöldugljúfur: Dubbed the "Valley of Tears," this ravine is known for multiple cascading waterfalls down its cliffs. Formed by glacial and river erosion, the Sigoldugljufur canyon features an eye-pleasing combination of turquoise waters, lush green vegetation, and dark lava fields.
Strútslaug: A remote geothermal pool near Torfajökull. The 50 cm (19.6 in) deep Strútslaug hot spring is ideal for a relaxing soak, but the soft, muddy base requires careful movement.
Hekla volcano: One of Iceland’s most active volcanoes, located 54 km (33.5 mi) from Landmannalaugar. Known as the "Gateway to Hell," it has erupted around 20 times since 874 AD and is now surrounded by rugged lava fields.
Landmannalaugar is in the southern Highlands of Iceland, within the Fjallabak Nature Reserve. It sits on the edge of the Laugahraun lava field and is famous for its mountains of various colors, hot springs, and scenic hiking trails. During summer, the area is accessible via F208 and F224 roads.
The Highlands are located in Iceland’s interior, rising 300–400 m (1,000–1,300 ft) above sea level. Mountains and volcanoes reach over 1,000 m (3,280 ft). Spanning 42,000 km² (16,216 sq mi), they form one of Europe’s largest uninhabited wilderness areas. They are bordered by Iceland’s lowlands, which extend toward the coast.
Yes, Landmannalaugar is worth visiting, especially if you want to discover breathtaking landscapes, natural hot springs, and unique hiking trails. Visitors can soak in geothermal pools surrounded by lava fields or explore the famous Laugavegur trail leading toward Thórsmörk.
You can get to Landmannalaugar via gravel roads F208 and F225. Due to rough driving conditions, these roadways are open only in summer and always closed in winter. A 4x4 is required by law, as it provides stability and safety to the driver and passengers. Guided tours also go to Landmannalaugar.
Driving from Reykjavik to Landmannalaugar takes 3 to 4 hours via the northern F208 road. Take Route 1 south, turn onto Road 30 past Selfoss, continue to Road 32, then Road 26. Follow it to F208, and after about an hour, turn onto F224 to reach the Landmannalaugar parking lot.
No, you can’t reach Landmannalaugar without a 4x4 because the route goes through F-roads. These tracks are rough and often involve crossing rivers, so Icelandic regulations require a high-clearance 4x4. Regular cars—even many SUVs—can’t handle it and typically won’t be insured for such conditions. Transfer buses and guided tours use specialized off-road vehicles designed for river fording, like super jeeps or heavily modified 4WD minibuses.
Landmannalaugar is pronounced as land-man-nalau-gar [ˈlantˌmanːaˌlœyːɣar̥]. The name “Landmannalaugar” is made up of “Landmann,” which means "people of the land" or "landowners," and “Laugar,” which means “hot springs”, so the name literally means “People’s Pools.”
Landmannalaugar's vibrant colors result from geothermal and volcanic activity. Silica and iron-rich rhyolite mountains create red and pink hues, while basalt and volcanic ash give it black and blue tones. Sulfur from hot springs adds yellow shades, and summer moss infuses green accents.
The time it takes to hike Landmannalaugar varies from a couple of hours to a few days if you go further into the highland areas. Shorter trails, like Bláhnúkur or Laugahraun, take 2–4 hours, while longer routes, such as Suðurnámur, take 4–6 hours. More extensive treks such as Laugavegur, that start from the geological valley, can take up to 5 days or more to complete.
Yes, you can see Landmannalaugar without hiking—its colorful mountains, lava fields, and geothermal formations are clearly visible from the campsite or parking area. These accessible spots allow you to admire the dramatic landscape without a long trek. Alternatively, explore the rugged terrain on a 4x4, Super Jeep, or join an off-road safari tour for a closer look.
