Rhyolite mountains in every shade, a free natural hot spring, and the trailhead for Iceland's most famous trek
If you only visit one place in the Iceland highlands, make it Landmannalaugar. The name translates roughly to "The People's Pools," and the name tells you something important: this is a place Icelanders have been coming to bathe and explore for centuries. It remains the most visited destination in the entire interior -- and for good reason.
What hits you first is the color. The mountains here are made of rhyolite, a silica-rich volcanic rock that weathers into extraordinary shades of pink, rust, green, yellow, and purple. The most famous of these is Brennisteinsalda -- "Sulphur Wave" -- a roughly 855-meter peak that looks like it was painted by someone who couldn't decide on a palette. Iron creates the reds, sulfur the yellows, copper the greens, and silica the pale whites.
Then there's the hot spring. A natural geothermal stream flows into a cool brook at the edge of the lava field, creating a bathing area where the water hovers around 36-40 C. It's free, it's open whenever you can get here, and there's nothing commercial about it -- just a river of warm water in the middle of a volcanic wilderness. Soap and shampoo are prohibited to protect the ecosystem.
The surrounding Laugahraun lava field is an obsidian-black flow from a 1477 eruption, still looking fresh after five centuries. Walking across it feels like stepping onto another planet.
F-road access varies by year. Check road.is before driving. Parking reservation required via the Parka app in peak season (9 AM-4 PM, June 20-September 15).
The most popular day hike circles this iconic mountain. Allow 3-4 hours for the full loop. The trail passes fumaroles, steaming vents, and ridgeline views that take in the entire Fjallabak Nature Reserve. Moderate difficulty with some steep sections.
A steeper, more challenging ascent to ~940 meters with 360-degree panoramic views of the surrounding rhyolite mountains, glaciers, and the black lava field below. About 4 hours round trip. Loose scree in places -- sturdy boots essential.
A flatter, easier 4.3 km trail across the obsidian lava field. Good for families and anyone wanting to stretch their legs without a major climb. The contrast between black lava and green moss is extraordinary.
A short detour leads into this narrow green canyon with moss-covered walls and a small stream. Roughly 2 km round trip from the campsite. Easy and rewarding.
After any hike, the natural pool is the reward. Arrive early morning or late evening for fewer crowds. The temperature varies along the stream -- walk upstream for warmer water. Free, open year-round, no soap permitted.
Landmannalaugar is the northern trailhead for Iceland's most famous multi-day trek -- the 55 km Laugavegur Trail to Thorsmork, typically completed in 3-4 days. Named by National Geographic as one of the world's Top 20 Dream Trails.
Recommended for most drivers
From the Ring Road near Hrauneyjar, turn onto F208 heading south. This northern approach has no river crossings and is manageable for any 4WD vehicle with highland clearance. Rough gravel with washboard sections -- allow 2-3 hours from the turnoff.
Experienced drivers only
This western approach from Route 26 involves river crossings and rougher terrain. Only attempt this with a large 4WD and highland driving experience.
Best for non-4WD travelers
Trex and Reykjavik Excursions both run daily summer services. About 5 hours with one stop. Trex charges approximately 14,900 ISK (~$105) one-way for 2026. This is how many Laugavegur Trail hikers reach the trailhead.
$250-400 per person
Multiple operators run guided day trips from Reykjavik, typically 10-12 hours including the drive. Guides add context and handle all driving and river crossings.
2026 Parking: The Environment Agency now requires a parking reservation and service fee between 9 AM and 4 PM, June 20-September 15. Book through the Parka app before you arrive.
July and August offer the most reliable access, warmest temperatures (5-15 C), and the fullest color on the mountains. The hot spring is at its best when the air is cool -- which is most days.
Late June can work if F208 North has opened, but check road.is carefully.
September brings fall colors to the moss and fewer crowds, but weather becomes more unpredictable and the road can close with little warning.
Morning light (before 10 AM) and evening light (after 6 PM) produce the best photography conditions on the rhyolite mountains. Midday sun can wash out the colors.
FI (Ferdafelag Islands) operates the 78-bed hut. Bookings open in October/November and sell out within hours for peak dates. Camping (2,500-3,200 ISK/person/night) is first-come, first-served and rarely full.
At 600 meters in the interior, temperatures are noticeably lower than Reykjavik. Bring full waterproof layers, warm hat and gloves, and sturdy hiking boots even for short walks. Weather changes from sunshine to horizontal rain in minutes.
Do not rely on your phone for navigation or communication. Download offline maps before you arrive. If driving yourself, tell someone your plans and expected return time.
The last reliable fuel stop is at Hrauneyjar on the Ring Road. There is no fuel at Landmannalaugar.
~24 km north on F208. A stunning canyon of 50+ waterfalls streaming into turquoise water.
~10 km south. A vivid red volcanic crater surrounding deep blue water.
Accessible via F225. A 60-meter veil-shaped waterfall through rust-colored rock.
Visible from Landmannalaugar. Accessible as a detour on the way in or out.
Starts here, ending 55 km later in Thorsmork. Iceland's most famous multi-day trek.
Planning help
Quick answers with safety notes where it matters.