3-Day Hiking Tour in Landmannalaugar from Reykjavik

Planning a three-day adventure in the Icelandic highlands? This Landmannalaugar trek offers an immersive experience into some of Iceland’s most colorful and geologically fascinating landscapes. From volcanoes to rhyolite peaks, you’ll hike through volcanic terrain, enjoy cozy mountain huts, and get plenty of fresh air — all with a small group of like-minded explorers. The tour includes pickup and drop-off from Reykjavik, making it as hassle-free as possible, so you can focus on the stunning scenery.

One thing we love about this tour is how well-organized it is, combining challenging hikes with comfortable accommodations and delicious meals. Plus, the presence of knowledgeable guides, like Vjeran and Throstur, makes all the difference—they’re not just there to lead but to enrich your understanding of Iceland’s geology and history.

A possible consideration is that the tour involves some quite physical terrain, so it’s best suited for those with moderate fitness levels. Also, showers aren’t included in the mountain huts, which might matter to some travelers after a long day of hiking. Still, that’s a small trade-off for a genuine, off-the-beaten-path adventure.

This experience is ideal if you’re passionate about hiking, photography, geology, or simply want to see Iceland’s raw, volcanic beauty in a more intimate setting. It’s perfect for travelers who want a guided, immersive experience with all logistics taken care of, and who aren’t afraid of a bit of physical activity.

Key Points

• Small Group Experience: Max 16 travelers, ensuring personalized attention and camaraderie.
• All-Inclusive Meals & Accommodation: Food provided in mountain huts, with options for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
• Expert Guides: Guides like Vjeran, Throstur, and Caroline bring a wealth of knowledge and care.
• Stunning Scenery: From crater lakes to rhyolite mountains, the views are unforgettable.
• Physical Activity: Moderate level of fitness needed; expect some challenging climbs and stream crossings.
• Value for Price: At around $1,177, the tour covers almost everything — meals, accommodation, safety gear, and transportation.

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

The Journey Begins: Pickup and First Day

You’ll be collected from your centrally located Reykjavik meeting point early in the morning, with the bus journey taking you through the breathtaking Thjórsárdalur valley, heading toward the Landmannalaugar region. The ride itself is an experience, as the landscape shifts from urban to wild, with volcanic peaks on the horizon. The guides often share stories and insights into Iceland’s volcanic activity, setting the tone for the adventure ahead.

Stop 1: Ljotipollur Lake — The “Ugly Puddle” with a Stunning View

Despite its humorous name (meaning “ugly puddle”), Ljotipollur lake is ranked as the 42nd most beautiful crater lake in the world. Its striking red volcanic crater filled with icy water creates a dramatic contrast, perfect for photos. The stop lasts about 20 minutes and is a great warm-up for the hikes ahead. Reviewers love the surprise of such a vivid sight in this rugged landscape, with one describing it as a “beautiful crater lake” despite the funny name.

Stop 2: Frostastaðavatn — Surreal Highlands

Next, you’ll visit Frostastaðavatn, a shimmering lake framed by rhyolite mountains bursting with color—reds, yellows, and purples. This area is a magnet for photographers, and you’ll want your camera ready. The guides often point out geological features, explaining how the landscape’s vibrant hues are a result of volcanic minerals. Travelers note the scenery here is “surreal,” making it a highlight of the first day.

The First Night: Cozy Mountain Huts

After a day of exploration, you’ll settle into a mountain hut — surprisingly comfortable considering the remote location. The huts are quite well-kept, and reviews mention the food served is tasty, hearty, and a welcome reward after a day of hiking. Keep in mind, showers cost extra (500 ISK), so plan accordingly if you need a rinse after your trek.

Day 2: Reaching New Heights and Ancient Lava Fields

The second day involves a challenging but rewarding hike up to the 200,000-year-old Suðurnámur mountain. The ascent is about 3 hours, but your efforts are rewarded with panoramic views and a vivid display of rhyolite minerals in the peaks. One reviewer called it a “very colorful hike,” highlighting how the mineral deposits create a palette of greens, blues, reds, and golds—almost like a natural art exhibit.

Later, the group visits the Laugahraun lava field, formed during an eruption around 1477. This basalt lava landscape adds a sense of geological history to your journey. How often can you walk through a lava field that’s over 500 years old, knowing it once flowed from the magma chamber beneath Bárðarbunga?

The Guides and Their Stories

Throughout the day, guides like Throstur and Deyan share insights into volcanic activity, local geology, and Icelandic folklore. Reviewers frequently mention how guides are “extremely professional,” “informative,” and go above and beyond to make sure everyone is comfortable. Deyan, for instance, is praised for his thoughtful approach and expertise, making even tough parts of the hike more manageable.

The Final Day: Climbing to the Top of Bláhnjúkur

The last morning features a 3.5-hour hike up to Bláhnjúkur volcano, offering stunning panoramic views of Landmannalaugar and, if the weather permits, glimpses of five glaciers. The climb is physically demanding but very doable with good guides. The reward? Pictures that capture Iceland’s volcanic palette and a sense of accomplishment. Several reviewers mention how the landscape from the top is “unreal,” with some even saying photos don’t do it justice.

Returning to Reykjavik

After descending from Bláhnjúkur, you’ll have a short break before boarding the bus back to Reykjavik. The journey offers one last chance to reflect on the trip’s highlights, and many travelers say they’re exhausted but exhilarated. The tour arrives back around 9 p.m., giving you a full, enriching day.

The Value of This Tour

While the price tag is around $1,177.53 per person, it covers nearly everything—meals, mountain hut accommodations, safety gear, guided hikes, and transportation. Reviewers frequently mention how well-organized the tour is, with guides like Caroline receiving praise for their friendliness and expertise. The inclusion of baggage transportation and all necessary safety equipment simplifies logistics, allowing you to focus solely on enjoying the landscapes.

Food is another standout. With all meals included, you don’t need to worry about packing snacks or finding food in remote locations. Many reviewers raved about the quality and hearty nature of the meals, which boost morale after challenging hikes.

Small Group, Big Experience

Limiting the group to 16 travelers enhances the personal feel and allows guides to give more individual attention. It also fosters camaraderie among hikers, which is often mentioned as a highlight by reviewees.

Practical Considerations

Though the tour is quite fulfilling, a few things are worth noting. Showers in the huts cost extra, and they aren’t part of the included amenities. Also, the hikes involve some stream crossings and climbs, so having moderate physical fitness is recommended. Reviewers like those who said the guides “made sure everyone was comfortable,” highlight the importance of choosing a tour suited to your fitness level.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This trip is best suited for active travelers who love nature, geology, and photography. It’s perfect if you’re looking for a guided experience that manages all logistics, allowing you to focus on the scenery and the physical challenge. The small-group setting means more interaction with guides, making it ideal for those who appreciate learning on the go.

If you’re not keen on roughing it or have mobility issues, this might be a bit strenuous, but otherwise, it’s a fantastic way to see some of Iceland’s best landscapes in just three days. It balances adventure with comfort, making it an excellent choice for those seeking an authentic, memorable Icelandic adventure.

FAQ

Is pickup included? Yes, the tour offers pickup and drop-off from Reykjavik, making transportation hassle-free.
How many people are in the group? The group is limited to a maximum of 16 travelers, ensuring a more intimate experience.
Are meals provided? All meals are included, which is a big plus for convenience and energy during hikes.
Where do we stay? Accommodation is in mountain huts, which are comfortable and well-maintained, though showers are extra.
What’s the physical fitness level required? A moderate level of fitness is needed; the hikes involve some challenging climbs and stream crossings.
Is this suitable for beginners? It’s best for those with some hiking experience due to the terrain, but guides are attentive to safety and comfort.
What should I bring? Expect to bring layers suitable for mountain weather, plus gear for hiking and possibly a swimsuit and towel if you want to shower.
Can I cancel? Yes, you can cancel up to 6 days in advance for a full refund, with a partial refund if canceled earlier.

Final Thoughts

This 3-day Landmannalaugar trek offers a well-rounded blend of adventure, scenery, and comfort. With expert guides leading you through some of Iceland’s most vibrant volcanic landscapes, you’ll leave with incredible photos, new knowledge, and a sense of achievement. It’s a good choice for those who want a guided, all-inclusive experience that combines challenging hikes with cozy mountain huts.

While it’s not the cheapest option, the included meals, accommodations, and safety gear make it a solid value for an immersive highland adventure. The small group size ensures a personal touch, and multiple reviews praise the guides for their professionalism and local expertise.

If you’re ready to tackle Iceland’s rugged beauty in a manageable, well-organized way, this tour is definitely worth considering. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or an adventurous beginner with a good fitness level, you’ll find plenty to love about this unforgettable highland trek.