Last Updated on November 12, 2024
Iceland’s landscape is often called “otherworldly.” “Like being on another planet.” We couldn’t agree more. Nowhere is that more evident than on the drive from Reykjavik to Landmannalaugar in Iceland’s interior. What an adventure!
As you leave the colorful capital of Reykjavik and head towards the Icelandic Highlands, the paved road becomes a rough, gravel route called an F-road, and the landscape morphs into moss-covered black lava fields. It’s a bumpy and breathtaking drive – proving this Iceland day trip is just as much about the journey as it is the destination.
The scene becomes even more dramatic as you near the Fjallabak Nature Reserve which includes the geothermal area of Landmannalaugar. A kind of volcanic rock called rhyolite creates a colorful landscape. You’ll know you’re close when you spot red, orange, and yellow hues marking the mountains.
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I knew the rugged drive to Landmannalaugar would be worthwhile, but I couldn’t help feeling a little apprehensive. Driving to Landmannalaugar ourselves, I didn’t know how we would fare navigating the rough F-roads and river crossings. In the end, we loved our Landmannalaugar adventure and learned a few things along the way. The most important being that planning is key for a day trip from Reykjavik to Landmannalaugar!
Below, we compiled our top 13 tips to help you get the most out of this thrilling Landmannalaugar, Iceland day trip. Enjoy!
Things to Know for a Day Trip from Reykjavik to Landmannalaugar, Iceland
1. The best time to visit Landmannalaugar is mid-June to mid-September.
Summer is peak tourist time in Iceland and for good reason. The weather is warmer – perfect for outdoor adventures – and summer sees an extreme amount of daylight. July can see 21 hours of daylight in a 24-hour period! Also, many roads leading to Landmannalaugar close during winter weather, so plan your Iceland day trip for the summer months.
2. Driving to Landmannalaugar yourself is worth the experience.
There are a couple different routes taking you from Reykjavik to Landmannalaugar, each promising a scenic adventure. Whichever one you choose, the drive will include otherworldly panoramas inspiring you to pull over often for pictures. Driving to Landmannalaugar yourself lets you go at your own pace, stop when you want to, and take it all in.
If you’re a little hesitant to make the drive, just know that the drive is perfectly manageable and worth it for the adventure of experiencing Iceland’s raw and wild terrain.
3. There are other options if you don’t feel comfortable driving to Landmannalaugar.
If you don’t feel comfortable driving from Reykjavik to Landmannalaugar yourself, it’s still worth a day trip. The options below offer a similar experience with less stress.
The Highland Bus from Reykjavik Excursions is a once daily bus that drives people to Landmannalaugar, arriving by 11:30 a.m. and departing for the return journey at 3:45 p.m. Tickets cost around $170 USD roundtrip. This is not a guided tour, but simply bus transport.
If you’re looking for a guided trip, these are some fun and stress-free options:
Reykjavik to Landmannalaugar Day Trip + Háifoss waterfall tour
Reykjavik to Landmannalaugar Super Jeep Tour
Private Reykjavik to Landmannalaugar Super Truck Exploration
4. Only 4×4 vehicles are permitted to drive on Iceland’s F-roads.
The route from Reykjavik to Landmannalaugar includes traveling on unpaved and not well-maintained mountain roads called F-roads. By law, you need a 4×4 vehicle to drive these roads. If you’re renting a vehicle, double check to make sure the 4×4 you’re renting is authorized to go on Iceland’s F-roads.
5. Your route from Reykjavik to Landmannalaugar may include river crossings.
River crossings are common in the Iceland Highlands and can be a little unnerving if you’ve never driven through one before. In typical conditions the water is not very deep, and the crossing is uncomplicated, but you’ll want to be prepared. Refer to this Iceland river crossing guide before you go: Guide to Iceland river crossings
If you want to steer clear of river crossings, the route you should take is F26 to F208 from the north. However, if you’re up for the adventure, coming in from the west on F225 includes crossing a few rivers in your vehicle.
Iceland river crossings can be the most nerve-racking part of the drive for many people. It was for me. After the drive, however, I realized there was no reason to be as freaked out as I was about them. Drivers do have to be careful and assess the conditions of the river before crossing, but most often they are very manageable. Click for current Iceland road conditions.
6. Get an early start to your day.
This Iceland day trip will take most of your day so it’s best to get an early start. The drive from Reykjavik to Landmannalaugar is roughly 3 hours and 15 minutes. Once there, you’ll want to spend your time taking in the colorful landscape and tackling a hike or two. An early morning start helps you maximize your time, fit everything into your day, and can help you beat the crowds during peak season.
7. Take advantage of scenic stops along the drive.
If you follow tip #6 and get an early start to your day, you’ll have time to stop and sightsee along the way. On your drive to Landmannalaugar, you’ll no doubt be eager to get to the colorful mountainous destination. You’ll also be concentrating on navigating the tricky F-roads. But don’t miss the opportunity to stop and check out some other scenic landforms you come across.
While most of the drive is barren, bumpy, rough, and remote, the different routes also take you near a waterfall, volcano, canyon, river, and the most serene lake I’ve ever seen: Frostastaðavatn near the junction of F208 and F225.
8. Bring layers to wear.
Iceland’s weather can change quickly. You’ll want to bring layers for your day trip so you can put on or take off clothing as needed. Depending on the conditions the day you’re visiting you may need sunscreen and hat for shade or a jacket and gloves to stay warm. Either way you’ll want good walking/hiking shoes for the day.
9. Hike or walk the Laugahraun Lava Field loop.
There are a variety of scenic hikes in Landmannalaugar – around a lava field, up mountain summits, and even multi-day hikes. But a day trip from Reykjavik means you only have so much time to work with.
An easy and picturesque hike to fit into your Landmannalaugar visit is the loop trail around the Laugahraun Lava Field.
The trail is roughly 3 miles long and includes rock scrambling, following a stream, traversing geothermal spots and lava rocks, and easy detours if you’re interested in climbing one of the peaks. This rewarding hike offers fabulous views of the colorful mountains making it a popular activity.
10. Pack a swimsuit and towel if you want to soak in the natural hot spring.
Soaking in a natural hot spring is a great way to unwind after a hike and before making the drive back to Reykjavik. The Landmannalaugar Hot Springs is conveniently located right off the boardwalks near the information hut. Sit, relax, and immerse yourself in the stunning surroundings with awe-inspiring views of colorful mountains and lava fields.
11. Fill up on gas before you leave Reykjavik.
Landmannalaugar is a very remote part of the Iceland Highlands. There are no gas stations there, so you’ll need to fill your tank with gas before you leave Reykjavik for the journey there and back.
12. Bring enough food and snacks for the day.
Landmannalaugar has a bus parked onsite that sells a limited variety of snacks and essentials, but there are no other stores, restaurants, supermarkets, or even any type of civilization nearby. You’ll want to bring enough food to get you through the day.
13. The onsite bathrooms require a fee.
One good thing is there are bathrooms available for use at Landmannalaugar. The bad thing is they charge you a fee: 500 króna (roughly $3.50 USD)
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