South Iceland is a top destination for outdoor lovers. Its rugged landscapes, geothermal activity, and sweeping lava fields make it ideal for hiking and trekking. Whether you’re after a full day of exploring the colorful mountains of Landmannalaugar, a multi-day adventure on the famous Laugavegur trail, or a guided trek through volcanic terrain, South Iceland offers options that suit a variety of interests and fitness levels. We especially like how each tour highlights different aspects of the region—ranging from easy scenic walks to challenging multi-day expeditions—giving travelers a real taste of Iceland’s wild beauty.
One of our favorites is the From Reykjavik: Landmannalaugar Hiking Day Tour, which offers an accessible way to see some of the most iconic scenery in the Highlands. The longer 3-Day Hiking Tour in Landmannalaugar provides a more immersive experience, with mountain hut accommodations and focused exploration. For those craving a true expedition, the 4 Days Laugavegur Trekking Tour takes you through Iceland’s most famous trail, complete with camping and stunning vistas. Below, we detail each option so you can choose the best fit for your Iceland adventure.
1. From ReykjavÃk: Landmannalaugar Hiking Day Tour
This full-day Landmannalaugar hiking tour from Reykjavik is a fantastic way to experience some of Iceland’s most vivid landscapes. The trip involves crossing the Laugahraun lava field and climbing the Brennisteinsalda volcano, known as the sulfur volcano for its colorful slopes. The tour is led by a certified guide who will help you navigate rugged trails and share insights into the region’s geology and volcanic history.
One of the big draws is the chance to relax in the natural hot springs of Landmannalaugar after a day of hiking. The tour lasts about 13 hours, making it a long but rewarding day. The guide’s expertise shines through, with many reviewers praising Dimitris for his knowledge and helpful attitude. The moderate challenge level makes it accessible for most hikers, though sturdy footwear is recommended given the gravel and uneven terrain. The price of around $181 offers good value considering the included transportation, guide, and hot spring soak.
Bottom Line: If you’re short on time but want to see the Highlands’ highlights, this full-day trip balances adventure with comfort, perfect for those with a moderate fitness level and a love of volcanic scenery.
2. 3-Day Hiking Tour in Landmannalaugar from Reykjavik
For those wanting a deeper dive into Iceland’s wilderness, this 3-day hiking tour is a standout. Limited to a small group of 16, it offers a personalized experience that includes meals, mountain hut accommodations, and expert guiding. The trip covers different highlights each day—like the stunning Ljotipollur crater lake and Frostastaðavatn, with the opportunity to photograph some of Iceland’s most iconic volcanic landscapes.
What makes this tour special is the balance of structured exploration and free time for photography or relaxing. The itinerary includes hikes to peaks like Suðurnámar and crossing volcanic deserts, with the guides sharing rich insights into the region’s geological processes. Since accommodations are mountain huts, you’ll experience a cozy night in the highlands, though showers come at an extra cost. The reviews emphasize the professionalism of guides and the scenic diversity, making it ideal for nature enthusiasts who want a manageable, multi-day adventure.
Bottom Line: Best suited for travelers who don’t mind basic amenities, this trip provides a comprehensive, guided experience of Iceland’s Highlands for hikers eager for more than a day trip.
3. 4 Days Laugavegur Trekking Tour
Rated among the top 20 hikes worldwide by National Geographic, the Laugavegur Trek is the ultimate Iceland hiking experience. This four-day camping expedition takes you from the colorful Landmannalaugar mountains through surreal volcanic landscapes and ends in the peaceful birch forests of Þórsmörk. The tour is led by guides experienced in outdoor survival and local geology, ensuring your safety and enrichment along the way.
What sets this trek apart is the multi-day camping experience—your luggage is transported between camps, freeing you to focus on the hikes. The trail includes famous sights like Reykjafjöll and Jökultungur mountain, with plenty of time for photography, rest, and soaking in the scenery. The itinerary involves challenging ascents, such as climbing Bláhnúkur, but the guides tailor the pace to suit the group. The reviews show that hikers appreciate the privacy of tents, the stunning vistas, and the overall value, though it’s a significant commitment in terms of time and physical effort.
Bottom Line: Ideal for seasoned hikers or those craving a full immersion into Icelandic highland wilderness, this trek offers a truly memorable adventure with the convenience of guided camping.
How to Choose Your Iceland Hiking Adventure
Picking the best tour depends on your budget, time, fitness level, and how deep you want to go into Iceland’s terrain. If you’re short on time or prefer a guided day trip, the Landmannalaugar Day Tour is perfect. For a multi-day experience with comfortable mountain huts, the 3-day Landmannalaugar trek offers a more immersive taste. If you’re an experienced hiker ready for an extended, camping adventure, the Laugavegur trek provides a world-class, four-day challenge.
Consider your fitness level and what kind of experience you seek—whether a single day of scenic hiking or multiple days of trekking across Iceland’s iconic landscapes. Booking early is advisable, especially for the popular multi-day tours, as they fill quickly during peak seasons.
Final thoughts
South Iceland offers an array of hiking opportunities that showcase some of the most spectacular landscapes in the world. For a quick taste, the Landmannalaugar Day Tour offers a memorable full day. For travelers looking for a longer, more involved experience, the 3-day Landmannalaugar trip provides a rich exploration, while the Laugavegur Trek stands out as a world-class adventure for seasoned hikers.
No matter your choice, remember Iceland’s weather can be unpredictable—so pack accordingly and prepare for an unforgettable journey through one of the most remarkable terrains on Earth. Book early, and enjoy stepping into the wild heart of South Iceland.