Day hike through the otherworldly multi-coloured rhyolite mountains surrounding the Landmannalaugar geothermal area. Bright reds, yellows, greens, and blacks create a lunar landscape.
This day hike begins at the Landmannalaugar campsite and hut, reached by highland bus along the F208 road from late June to early September or by 4WD vehicle capable of fording several rivers; there is no scheduled winter access and no permit is required to walk the marked routes. The 12 km loop climbs around 500m through the rhyolite mountains that ring the geothermal area, following well-trodden but unpaved paths over volcanic sand, scree, and the black Laugahraun lava field, with boardwalk sections through the geothermal zone near the hot spring. The route has minimal shade and is fully exposed to highland wind and sudden weather shifts. Key landmarks include the steaming Brennisteinsalda crater with its sulphur-streaked slopes, the obsidian lava field of Laugahraun, and viewpoints looking across the multicoloured rhyolite peaks toward Bláhnúkur; hikers short on time or energy commonly shorten the loop by turning back after the Brennisteinsalda viewpoint rather than completing the full circuit. The Landmannalaugar hut and campsite mark the only shelter and water source on the route; the geothermal river near the hut is a popular spot for a warm soak at the end of the hike. There are no facilities once away from the base area, so hikers should carry their own water and food for the full loop.
| Distance | 12 km loop |
|---|---|
| Duration | 5-6 hours |
| Difficulty | moderate |
| Best season | Late June to early September |
Trail facts
- Trail area
- Landmannalaugar, South Highlands
Weather through the year in Iceland
Best time Shoulder Worth avoiding
Average daytime temperature in °C. Figures are for Iceland.
Highlights
- Rhyolite mountain colours
- Natural hot spring at camp
- Laugahraun lava field
- Brennisteinsalda crater
- 360-degree highland views
Tips for visiting
- Soak in the geothermal river near the hut after the hike; changing shelters are available at the campsite.
- Highland buses only run from late June to early September; check schedules before planning a day trip.
- Weather changes quickly on the exposed loop, so pack a windproof layer even on a sunny morning.
- Loose volcanic sand on the ascent can be tiring; trekking poles help with traction.
- Shorten the loop at the Brennisteinsalda viewpoint if time or weather is limited.
When to visit
Late morning departures in July and August coincide with the highland bus schedule and the most stable weather window.
Accessibility
The loop crosses loose volcanic sand, scree, and lava rock with no paved sections, so it is not accessible to wheelchairs or strollers.
Frequently asked questions
How do hikers get to Landmannalaugar?
Most visitors take the seasonal highland bus along the F208 from Reykjavík or Hella, running roughly late June to early September, since the unbridged river crossings on the approach require a well-equipped 4WD otherwise.
Is the day hike suitable for beginners?
The 12 km loop with 500m of gain is moderate and manageable for hikers with average fitness, though the loose volcanic terrain and exposed weather make sturdy boots and layered clothing important.
Can the loop be shortened?
Yes, hikers can turn back after reaching the Brennisteinsalda crater viewpoint for a shorter round trip while still seeing the main highlights of the colourful rhyolite landscape.
Is there anywhere to camp?
The Landmannalaugar campsite next to the trailhead offers tent pitches and a staffed hut with basic facilities, making it a common base for both day hikers and those starting the Laugavegur Trail.