Landmannalaugar: Iceland's Highland Jewel

Landmannalaugar sits at approximately 600m altitude in Iceland’s southern Highlands, where a 1477 CE lava flow dammed the Jökulsgilskvísl river and created a geothermal pool at the edge of the lava field. The landscape around it is unlike anything else in Iceland — bright rhyolite mountains in greens, pinks, yellows, and purples, obsidian lava fields, and the river valley stretching south. It’s the start of the Laugavegur trail — arguably Iceland’s greatest multi-day hike — and a destination in its own right for day hikers.

Getting There

By 4WD (self-drive): Take Route 26 from Route 1 at Hella, then F208 south through the highlands. A river ford is required — depth varies but is often 40–60cm in summer. Only cross in a properly equipped 4WD. Check road.is and gauge conditions before crossing. Allow approximately 3 hours from Reykjavík.

By Highland Bus: Reykjavík Excursions (re.is) runs scheduled buses from the BSÍ terminal in Reykjavík and from Selfoss. Journey time approximately 4–5 hours. Bus approximately ISK 8,900 one way as of 2026. Operates daily in July and August, reduced frequency in June and September.

The Natural Hot Spring

Immediately accessible from the hut and campsite — a geothermal stream mixes with the cold river, creating a natural bathing pool at approximately 38–40°C. The pool is free and open at all times, though it can be crowded midday in peak season. Bathing in the early morning or evening is quieter. The views while bathing — rhyolite mountains on three sides — are spectacular.

Day Hikes from Landmannalaugar

Brennisteinsalda Loop (approximately 3–4 hours, 8km) — The most popular day hike. A circuit around the Brennisteinsalda rhyolite mountain and through sulphurous geothermal areas. Excellent colour views. Moderate difficulty.

Bláhnúkur (approximately 2–3 hours, 6km) — A steep climb to the summit of a black obsidian peak (943m) with views over the entire highland plateau. Steep in places; not dangerous but requires care on loose scree.

Ljótipollur crater lake — An explosion crater lake with vivid red-orange crater walls and a dark teal lake in the bottom, approximately 5km north of Landmannalaugar. Accessible by foot (full day return) or 4WD.

Laugavegur Trail

Landmannalaugar is the northern start of the 55km Laugavegur trail to Þórsmörk — one of the world’s great multi-day treks. The trail passes through highland desert, across rivers, over two mountain passes, and through the Þórsmörk valley. Typically completed in 4 days with huts along the route.

See the dedicated Laugavegur trail article for full route information, hut booking, and gear requirements.

Accommodation and Facilities

Landmannalaugar Mountain Hut (FÍ): Sleeping bag dormitories for approximately 78 people. ISK 8,900 per person as of 2026. Book at fi.is. Includes basic cooking facilities and toilets. Book months ahead for July–August.

Campsite: Immediately adjacent to the hut. Approximately ISK 2,200 per person per night. Toilet and hot shower facilities available.

Facilities: The hut has a basic café/shop selling snacks, soup, and hot drinks. No restaurant — bring food for cooking in the hut kitchen.

Practical Notes

• River crossings on the approach road: always check conditions and do not attempt without experience and a proper vehicle
• Weather changes rapidly in the highlands — bring full waterproofs and warm layers even in summer
• Mobile signal is limited at Landmannalaugar; download maps offline before arriving
• Leave nothing behind — pack out all rubbish; the site is fragile and heavily used