From Reykjavik: Highlands Jeep Tour & Landmannalaugar Hike

From Reykjavik: Highlands Jeep Tour & Landmannalaugar Hike offers a full-day adventure into Iceland’s rugged interior. For $412 per person, you’ll spend about 14 hours exploring some of the most breathtaking sights the land of fire and ice has to offer. Guides like France and others take you along highland roads in a modified Super Jeep, crossing rivers and navigating bumpy gravel trails that make the journey as exciting as the destinations. The real highlight is Landmannalaugar, a volcanic area famous for its colorful mountains, geothermal hot springs, and otherworldly landscape. Along the way, you’ll also visit Hjálparfoss and Haifoss Waterfalls, as well as the explosive crater Ljótipollur—each offering unique geological features and perfect photo ops.

What makes this experience stand out for us is the small group size, limited to just 4 travelers. This means a more personalized experience, less waiting, and plenty of opportunities to ask questions—especially valuable since your guide is a professional geologist. We also love how the tour balances adventure and education: the geological insights add depth to the stunning scenery, making it a richer experience than just sightseeing. The hot springs at Landmannalaugar are a fantastic way to unwind after the hike, providing a relaxing finish to a busy day.

One thing to consider is the long drive—the trip to Landmannalaugar involves several hours on rough roads, which might be tiring for some. Also, the tour is only offered between June 15 and September 15, depending on weather and road conditions, so timing is key. This trip appeals most to adventurous travelers who enjoy hiking, natural beauty, and geological learning, as well as those looking for an intimate experience away from large tour groups.

Key Points

• Small group size ensures a personalized experience with only up to 4 participants.
• Educational aspect with a professional geologist guide adds insight into Iceland’s volcanic landscape.
• Adventure driving on highland roads, crossing rivers, and navigating gravel trails adds adrenaline and fun.
• Scenic stops include Hjálparfoss, Haifoss, Ljótipollur crater, and the spectacular Landmannalaugar area.
• Hike and relax in geothermal hot springs, making the trip both active and restorative.
• Weather and road dependence means flexibility is vital, and the tour runs only during summer months.

You can check availability for your dates here:

In-Depth Review of the Highlands Jeep & Landmannalaugar Hike

Exploring Iceland’s highlands in a Super Jeep transforms what might otherwise be a rugged, bumpy ride into an exciting adventure. This tour is designed for those who don’t mind long hours in a vehicle, appreciating the chance to see astonishing landscapes that most visitors only glimpse in photos. The 14-hour itinerary begins early in Reykjavik, with pickup at Hallgrimskirkja, and ends back in the city well after sunset, offering a full immersion.

The Journey Begins: Hjálparfoss and the Highlands

Our first stop is Hjálparfoss, a waterfall where the Fossá and Þjórsá rivers converge, creating a striking scene of basalt columns and cascading water. Guided by France, we learn that this spot marks the start of the highlands. The landscape here is dramatic—a perfect introduction to the volcanic forces sculpting Iceland. We loved the clarity of the geological explanations; understanding how basalt formations come together makes the scenery even more captivating.

Just a few kilometers upstream, Haifoss steals the show—a 120-meter drop into a canyon that boasts one of Iceland’s highest waterfalls. The view down the canyon reveals layers of volcanic eruptions and sedimentary deposits, visually telling the story of past eruptions. Several reviews mention how breathtaking these waterfalls are, with one traveler calling them “breathtaking” and emphasizing that they are well worth the long drive.

The Unique Charm of Ljótipollur

Next, we stop at Ljótipollur, a colorful, explosive crater formed during a volcanic eruption a few hundred years ago. Its vibrant red lava rocks contrast beautifully with green moss and blue lake water, making it one of the most photogenic spots of the tour. Travelers often describe it as the “most beautiful ugly puddle in Iceland,” a humorous yet accurate way to sum up this raw, natural spectacle. The crater’s vivid colors highlight the power of nature and give you a sense of Iceland’s volcanic history.

Landmannalaugar: The Highlight of the Day

The highlight is Landmannalaugar, famous for its swirling geothermal hot springs and multi-colored mountains. Here, you’ll take a 2-3 hour hike with your guide, during which you’ll experience vistas that seem almost surreal. Your guide discusses the volcanic minerals that give these mountains their striking hues—reds, yellows, greens—and explains how they relate to Iceland’s volcanic activity. We appreciated the flexibility of the hike, as guides like France often extend it for strong hikers, making it suitable for various fitness levels.

After hiking, you’ll have time to soak in one of the natural hot springs, which is a perfect way to relax and reflect before heading back. The hot springs and geothermal activity here are a rare treat—colorful mountains combined with bubbling springs create a landscape that feels otherworldly. Several reviews mention how relaxing and special it is to unwind in these natural pools after a day of exploration.

More Great Tours Nearby

Practical Aspects and Logistics

The small group size adds a layer of intimacy many travelers appreciate. With only up to four people, your guide can tailor the experience, answer questions, and ensure everyone gets plenty of time at each stop. The vehicle ride is rough at times, but it’s part of the adventure. The long drive means you’ll need patience, but the scenery—stunning waterfalls, volcanic craters, and colorful mountains—makes it worthwhile.

Weather and road conditions heavily influence availability, so if Iceland’s weather turns grim, the trip might be canceled or postponed. The tour runs only from mid-June to mid-September, which is Iceland’s summer window, ensuring access to the highlands and stable roads. It’s a good idea to dress in outdoor clothing and sturdy hiking shoes, as the terrain can be uneven, and bring snacks, drinks, and your bathing suit for the hot springs.

The price of $412 might seem steep, but travelers who value the guided geological insights, small group intimacy, and exclusive access to iconic sites often find it justified. Several reviewers mention the excellent value for the price, especially given the inclusion of parking fees, hotel pickup, and the expertise of guides like France.

What Reviewers Love

Many travelers highlight the knowledge and friendliness of the guides. One reviewer raved about how France’s information “accompanied us on all days of our vacation,” making the experience educational and memorable. Others appreciated the stunning natural sights—the waterfalls, crater, and landscapes—calling them “breathtaking” and “like hiking on a different planet.” The delicious food stops and the opportunity to relax in hot springs also come up as key positive points.

Some mention that it’s a long day, but the exhilaration and beauty make it worthwhile. As one traveler put it, “The day was really very exhausting and exciting,” but in a good way. Many also mention how the small group setting makes for a more relaxed, engaging day—less hurried, more personal.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This tour is perfect for adventurous travelers who enjoy a mix of driving, hiking, and geology. If you’re passionate about nature and want a comprehensive taste of Iceland’s highlands, it’s a great fit. It’s especially suited for those comfortable with long drives and outdoor activity, as well as people who appreciate having a knowledgeable guide to explain the landscape’s story.

It’s less ideal for very young children, pregnant women, or travelers with mobility issues due to the physical and vehicle demands. If you’re looking for a quick glance at Iceland’s sights, this might be a bit too intensive—the 14-hour day demands a good level of stamina and curiosity.

The Sum Up

If you’re after an immersive, educational experience that combines adventure, stunning scenery, and geology, this Highlands Jeep & Landmannalaugar Hike is a fantastic choice. The small group setup, expert guide, and variety of sights make it a memorable way to explore Iceland’s interior in one full, scenic day. The hot springs offer a relaxing reward after a vigorous hike, and the geological explanations give you a deeper understanding of this volcanic island.

For travelers who want more than just photo stops and prefer a guided, personal approach to Iceland’s wild highlands, this tour hits the mark. It’s especially suitable if you’re comfortable with rough roads and long hours, and you love discovering nature’s raw power firsthand.

FAQ

How long is the trip?
The tour lasts approximately 14 hours, starting in the morning and returning in the evening.

What is included in the price?
The price covers pickup and dropoff in Reykjavik, a professional geologist guide, parking fees, and the guided hike.

Are meals included?
No, food and drinks are not included, so bring snacks and a packed lunch.

What should I bring?
Bring outdoor clothing, sturdy hiking shoes, water, snacks, and your swimsuit for the hot springs.

Is this tour suitable for children?
It’s not suitable for children under 6 years old, and it’s best for those comfortable with outdoor activities and long drives.

Can the tour be canceled due to weather?
Yes, the tour depends on weather and road conditions and is only offered from mid-June to mid-September. It can be canceled or rescheduled if conditions are unsafe.

In summary, this tour offers a well-rounded taste of Iceland’s highlands—spectacular waterfalls, volcanic craters, and geothermal springs—experienced in a personal, educational setting. It’s a good pick for those who want to combine adventure, learning, and relaxation on one unforgettable day.

You can check availability for your dates here: