Landmannalaugar, a jewel nestled within Iceland’s breathtaking Southern Highlands, is a realm of unparalleled beauty and geological wonder. Renowned for its kaleidoscopic rhyolite mountains, soothing geothermal hot springs, and the ever-shifting panorama of vibrant neon moss canyons juxtaposed with stark black volcanic slopes punctuated by plumes of natural steam vents, The Best Hikes in Landmannalaugar, Iceland offers an experience unlike any other. Situated within the Fjallabak Nature Reserve, this extraordinary region encompasses features such as the rugged Laugahraun lava field, the distinctive Blue Peak (Bláhnúkur), the sulfurous hues of Brennisteinsalda (the Sulfur Wave), and the captivating, if ironically named, Ljótipollur Crater (Ugly Puddle). Each of these geological masterpieces can be explored on invigorating day hikes. However, Landmannalaugar is most celebrated as the starting point for Iceland’s most iconic trek: the legendary four-day Laugavegur Trail.
Access to this remarkable destination is limited to the summer months, typically from mid-June through mid-September, when the weather is most favorable. Four challenging F-roads, unpaved mountain roads requiring vehicles with four-wheel drive, provide the only land access. Adventurous travelers can either navigate these routes in their own private 4×4 vehicles or opt for the convenience of scheduled bus services.
For those planning to embark on multi-day treks, securing reservations for mountain huts is essential. These sturdy, spacious shelters, heated by natural geothermal energy, are strategically located along the popular trails. Bookings can be made through the Ferðafélag Íslands (The Iceland Touring Association), a reputable organization that also provides invaluable safety information and essential gear recommendations.
The trails within Landmannalaugar are meticulously maintained and clearly marked, ensuring a safe and enjoyable hiking experience. However, due to the dynamic nature of the landscape, particularly the vulnerability to erosion, occasional trail closures may occur. Before setting out on any hike, it is crucial to consult local sources for the latest route updates to confirm that your intended path is open and has not been rerouted. Careful planning and awareness of current conditions are paramount for a safe and unforgettable adventure in Landmannalaugar.
Laugavegur
The Laugavegur Trek is more than just a hike; it’s a pilgrimage through some of Iceland’s most spectacular and diverse landscapes. Widely regarded as one of the most famous and stunning hikes in all of Iceland, this trail stretches from the FÍ (Ferðafélag Íslands) Tourist Center in Landmannalaugar to the Skagfjörðsskáli cabin in Langidalur, Þórsmörk. Covering a distance of just over 34 miles (55 kilometers), the Laugavegur is typically completed in four days, allowing hikers to fully immerse themselves in the ever-changing scenery.
Accommodation options along the Laugavegur range from pitching a tent at designated campsites to securing a coveted spot in one of the mountain huts. These huts offer a welcome respite from the elements and provide basic amenities for a comfortable overnight stay.
Each day of the Laugavegur Trek presents a drastically different panorama. Hikers traverse landscapes dominated by rhyolite mountains, where winds can gust up to 40 mph (64 km/h), and witness the ethereal beauty of steaming fumaroles. The journey also involves exhilarating river crossings, navigating through deep ravines, traversing glacial terrain, and venturing into a seemingly endless volcanic desert. As a reward for their efforts, hikers are often greeted by the sight of rainbows arching over lush forests, adding a touch of magic to this already extraordinary experience.
The Laugavegur Trail and the mountain huts along the route are exceptionally well-marked and maintained, ensuring that hikers can navigate with confidence. While the trail attracts a considerable number of trekkers, its vastness allows for moments of solitude and tranquility, where you can truly connect with the raw beauty of the Icelandic Highlands. The popularity of the trail also provides a sense of security, knowing that help is never too far away should you encounter any unforeseen challenges.
Bláhnúkur Mountain (The Blue Peak)
Bláhnúkur, meaning "Blue Peak" in Icelandic, stands as a solitary, grey-blue sentinel amidst a vibrant sea of rainbow-colored mountains. This iconic peak rises majestically above the Landmannalaugar Campground, beckoning hikers to ascend its slopes and witness unparalleled panoramic views.
The journey to the summit of Bláhnúkur begins by following the meandering river from the campground to the trailhead. From there, a well-defined 3.8-mile (6.1 km) loop trail leads hikers on a counterclockwise ascent through a surreal lava field and across sandy switchbacks. The final push to the rocky outcrop at the summit is rewarded with breathtaking vistas.
From the top of Bláhnúkur, hikers can capture stunning photographs of themselves with the multi-colored mountains serving as a dramatic backdrop. Alternatively, you can simply pause, breathe in the crisp mountain air, and immerse yourself in the aching beauty of this remarkable place.
While classified as a moderate hike, Bláhnúkur presents some challenging sections, particularly at the beginning, where the trail becomes exceptionally steep. It is advisable to allocate between two and a half to three and a half hours for the entire trek, allowing ample time to savor the experience and capture the unforgettable scenery.
Laugahraun Lava Field
The Laugahraun Trail is arguably the most popular hike in Landmannalaugar, offering a captivating exploration of a centuries-old lava field. Despite its relatively short duration of just one and a half to two hours, this 3-mile (4.8 km) loop trail showcases a remarkable diversity of landscapes.
Hikers traversing the Laugahraun Trail encounter stark moraines, rushing rivers, and the ethereal steam trails emanating from active fumaroles. The trail is encircled by the vibrant hues of the surrounding mountains, creating a truly immersive experience. The path winds its way over black chunks of shiny obsidian and basalt, past the ominously named Vondugil (Bad Ravines) Valley, through a narrow canyon, and near the base of Brennisteinsalda, the volcano responsible for shaping this extraordinary landscape.
The Laugahraun Trail originates from the FÍ Tourist Center, making it easily accessible to visitors. While generally considered an easy hike suitable for children, it does feature a somewhat steep uphill section at the beginning. Despite its accessibility, the Laugahraun Trail offers a captivating glimpse into the raw power and beauty of Iceland’s volcanic landscapes.
Mount Brennisteinsalda (The Sulfur Wave)
Brennisteinsalda, meaning "Sulfur Wave" in Icelandic, is a geological masterpiece that appears as if a celestial artist has spilled their palette onto the earth. Vivid red iron deposits cascade down the slopes, juxtaposed against the stark blackness of the surrounding lava fields. The alternating yellow sulfur and blue ash of the volcano create a mesmerizing contrast against a backdrop of verdant green moss.
The summit of Brennisteinsalda can be reached via a 4-mile (6.4 km) loop trail that incorporates sections of other routes. The journey begins from the Landmannalaugar Campground, following white markers through the Graenagil Valley. From there, hikers switch to yellow markers, traversing a portion of the lava field before joining the Laugavegur Trail (marked with red). A left turn followed by a right onto the green-marked path leads to the steep ascent to the summit.
The descent follows the green and white-marked trail towards Vondugil Valley, eventually reconnecting with the Laugahraun Trail to complete the loop. Rated as moderate, this hike typically takes between two and three and a half hours, offering a rewarding exploration of Brennisteinsalda’s unique geological features and breathtaking views.
Ljótipollur Crater (Ugly Puddle)
Despite its ironic name, Ljótipollur Crater, meaning "Ugly Puddle," is anything but unattractive. Depending on the time of day and the quality of light, encircling the crater’s lake on its relatively flat path can feel like stepping into a surreal, psychedelic dream. The slopes of the crater are adorned with a captivating blend of bright pink, red, and orange iron ore, interspersed with patches of deep blues and grays.
Rated as moderate, the 4.5-mile (7.2 km) loop trail can be completed in approximately two and a half hours, starting from the parking lot of Frostastaðavatn Lake. The trek can be significantly extended by beginning and ending at the Landmannalaugar Campground or by adding an ascent to the nearby Stútur Crater.
The Ljótipollur Crater hike offers stunning views of the Tungnaá River, a vast lava field, and sprawling marshland, all contributing to its colorful and otherworldly charm. This hike offers a unique perspective on the volcanic landscapes of Landmannalaugar.
Sudurnamur
The trailhead for the 5.3-mile (8.5 km) Sudurnamur trail is located just before the river crossing leading to Landmannalaugar. This trail offers some of the most comprehensive panoramic views of the entire region, including the Laugahraun lava field, Vondugil Valley, Bláhnúkur, and Brennisteinsalda.
If your goal is to witness as much of Landmannalaugar’s stunning scenery as possible on a single hike, the Sudurnamur and the Bláhnúkur Brennisteinsalda Loop are two excellent options, with Sudurnamur being the slightly easier of the two.
Classified as moderate, the Sudurnamur trail begins with a steep ascent, but the middle section, which follows the mountain ridge, is pleasantly flat, offering 360-degree views showcasing the geological artistry of the Torfajökull and Bárðarbunga volcanic systems. The trail then descends through Vondugil Valley, crossing several streams before connecting to the Laugahraun Trail, which leads back to the FÍ Tourist Center. Allow approximately three to five hours to complete this hike.
Bláhnúkur Brennisteinsalda Loop
This trail is a challenging route that combines the Bláhnúkur and Brennisteinsalda trails to create a rewarding hike through some of Landmannalaugar’s most iconic sights.
In addition to summiting both Bláhnúkur and Brennisteinsalda, this trail provides hikers with a closer vantage point to the area’s famous landmarks than the Sudurnamur Trail. This 6-mile (9.7 km) hike typically takes four to six hours to complete. Start from the Bláhnúkur trailhead near the Landmannalaugar Campground. Follow the trail over Bláhnúkur. Once you reach the river in Graenagil Canyon, take the trail marked with yellow through the lava field, and follow the directions for the Mount Brennisteinsalda Trail.
Stútur
Stútur Crater is one of the shortest hikes in the area. This trail ascends and circles the Stútur Crater, overlooking the blue expanse of Frostastaðavatn Lake. The hike can be completed in around 30 minutes, starting from the small parking lot on F208, located just before the main Landmannalaugar parking area.
Translated as "bottleneck," the crater offers a distinct perspective, with magenta-colored hills adorned with springy moss. Stairs at the beginning and end of the hike are the most strenuous part of this climb, but overall it is an easy hike.
Háalda
Háalda is the longest day hike in The Best Hikes in Landmannalaugar, Iceland, clocking in at 17.6 miles (28.3 km). This loop trail leads from the Landmannalaugar Campground to the summit of Háalda, one of Iceland’s highest mountains.
Rated as difficult and requiring six and a half to nine hours to complete, the trail traverses a river, grassy meadows, waterfalls, and hot springs. From the summit, you can admire the snow-capped peaks of the surrounding mountains, including Suðurnámur and Bláhjonkur. Start this trail early in the day and prepare for strong winds at the top and steep gravel sections.
