From Reykjavik: Landmannalaugar & Háifoss Waterfall Tour

Colorful highlands first, then a jaw-dropping waterfall. This day trip from Reykjavík strings together Landmannalaugar’s surreal geology and a real soak in the geothermal pools, all with a guide who keeps the stops moving. I also love the variety: turquoise crater water, lava-field walking, and the double-pronged drama at Háifoss. The only catch is it’s a long 13-hour day, and the hike is moderate, so you’ll want solid hiking shoes and stamina.

You’ll be in the Fjallabak highlands and nature reserve area, where every bend seems to change the colors—rhyolite hills, obsidian rocks, steam rising near the pools. Plus, the small-group format means you can actually hear explanations and ask questions. If you’re prone to motion sickness, plan for a few bumpy stretches on the way out and back.

Guides like Ottar and Beggi (and others on recent departures) are a huge part of why this works so well. They turn volcanic shapes and hot-spring behavior into something you can picture, not just facts on a bus screen. Do go with the mindset that Iceland is weather-first. If conditions shift, expect timing and photo stops to adapt.

Key Highlights You’ll Care About

• A guided Lauga-loop hike through rhyolite hills, obsidian rock, and steaming geothermal areas
• Geothermal hot-spring bathing right after the walk, with “no-fuss” changing logistics
• Háifoss + the waterfall pair: Hjálparafoss and Granni/Glanni show up too
• Hnausapollur’s turquoise crater lake for a contrast to the gray-brown highlands
• A guide who adds context (Ottar, Beggi, Kalman, HBO, Siggi have been singled out)
• Long-day reality: mostly great value, but bus seating can feel tight

Reykjavík to the Highlands: The Drive That Sets the Mood

This is a serious day, clocking in at about 13 hours door-to-door from Reykjavík. The itinerary starts with a long coach ride, then more short legs and photo stops as you head deeper into southern Iceland’s highland zone. That sounds like a lot of transit time, but the payoff is that you’re not just “getting to a place.” You’re building the story step by step—lava fields to crater lakes to waterfalls—while a guide talks you through what you’re actually seeing.

What makes the drive feel worth it is the mix of practical breaks and scenery. There’s a stop at the Highland Center Hrauneyjar (a short break), and later you’ll have another break around Selfoss. You’ll also get onboard Wi-Fi, which is handy for mapping and last-minute snack planning because food and drinks aren’t included.

One note on comfort: several people mention cramped seating on the vehicle, especially if you end up in the back rows. If you know you’re tall or you prefer extra legroom, plan to bring a small cushion or just accept that it’s a “sit, stare, and snack” kind of ride.

The other thing I’d flag is how Iceland manages expectations. Weather can change hiking and timing, and you may swap in slightly different viewpoints depending on conditions. That flexibility is part of why guided tours work in places where your own GPS might not save you from rough roads.

Landmannalaugar: Color-Heavy Volcanic Terrain and the Lauga-Loop Hike

Landmannalaugar is the star, and it’s not just hype. The area is famous for bright rhyolite hills, black obsidian rock streaks, and steaming geothermal pools tucked into a place that looks—at least from far away—almost otherworldly. You’ll arrive for about 4 hours, and the heart of that block is a guided hike along the Lauga-loop trail.

Expect roughly 1.5 to 2 hours for the hike portion, described as easy to moderate. It’s not a “stroll in the park,” but it’s also not a technical climb. The route takes you past those colorful rhyolite hills and renowned obsidian formations, then it heads upward toward geothermal activity. You’ll also be walking through foothills near Bláknúkur mountain, with steam and geothermal features showing up along the way.

Here’s what I think matters for your planning: this hike is the part where you earn the hot-spring time. It’s also where you’ll get the best geology explanations—why some rocks look rusty or rainbow-like, how volcanic processes create the shapes you’re walking around, and what geothermal activity looks like up close.

One practical tip: plan your clothing for the fact that Iceland doesn’t commit to one mood. Even in summer, it can be cool, windy, or damp. Bring weather-appropriate layers, and keep an eye on the day’s conditions—especially around steam and uneven ground.

Also, be ready for a hike distance that can feel longer than it sounds. One recent review noted the loop being about 6 km. I’d use that as a reality check: you’ll want shoes with grip and you’ll benefit from a steady pace.

Hot Springs After the Hike: Simple Soak, Real Logistics

After the walk, you’ll have time to bathe in the geothermal hot-spring pool at Landmannalaugar. This is the payoff moment: you’re tired in the good way, and suddenly you’re surrounded by volcanic terrain while your muscles relax. It’s also one of the most consistently praised parts of the day.

A couple of practical details help you enjoy it more. First, you should bring swimwear and a towel. Second, plan for changing without the comforts you might expect at a hotel spa. One review specifically flagged that there aren’t changing rooms or lockers at the hot pool site. So bring what you need, keep valuables contained, and think “keep it simple” rather than “get comfortable with amenities.”

If you forget swimwear, you’ll still enjoy the views, but you’ll miss the main reward. If you bring swimwear but don’t pack a towel, you’ll end up drying off the hard way. Don’t let the soak become a hassle.

This is also a good time to slow down your photos. The light often changes after the hike, and the pools plus geothermal steam can make for great shots—especially when you step out and take in the surroundings from a calmer angle.

Hnausapollur and Frostastaðavatn: Turquoise Crater Water in the Middle of Nowhere

Between the long drive and the Landmannalaugar hike, you’ll make photo and sightseeing stops that break up the day and sharpen the theme: Iceland’s volcanic storytelling doesn’t end with lava fields.

One stop is Hnausapollur, an ancient crater lake formed by volcanic eruptions. The big visual here is color: a striking turquoise blue that contrasts with the desolate, sandy highland surroundings. Even when the sky is gray, that color tends to grab attention, because the setting is so stark.

Another quick photo stop is Frostastaðavatn. It’s listed as a short sightseeing stop, so don’t expect a long walk here. But it’s useful for stretching your legs, taking a few photos, and mentally resetting before you hit the main hike portion.

These short stops matter because they help you “read” Iceland. Without them, Landmannalaugar can feel like one dramatic stop that you rush through. With them, you start noticing patterns: crater formations, volcanic rock types, and how water behaves in a dry-feeling environment.

Háifoss Waterfall and the Double-Pronged Drama: Hjálparafoss and Granni/Glanni

Waterfalls are where this tour really turns cinematic.

You’ll stop at Háifoss, described as Iceland’s fourth largest waterfall. The experience here is the contrast between scale and the simple act of standing near the falls and taking in the power. It’s not just a photo moment; it’s a moment where sound and mist fill the air and you understand why this region is so famous for visitors.

The tour also includes stops at Hjálparafoss and Granni (listed as Glanni in part of the tour description). Together, they create a “waterfall trilogy” effect: one big centerpiece and other drops that feel more tucked into the surrounding terrain.

One travel reality: waterfalls can be slippery and misty, depending on conditions. Wear shoes you trust. If it’s windy or icy, keep your footing slow and steady and accept fewer risky angles for better safety.

And here’s the good part: the stop times are short enough that you don’t feel trapped, but long enough that the waterfall isn’t just a blur from the bus window.

Fjallabak Nature Reserve and the Return Stops: How the Day Stays Balanced

After Landmannalaugar, you head back through the Fjallabak Nature Reserve area with at least one photo stop. These aren’t the “main attraction” moments, but they keep the day from feeling like a straight line from hike to waterfall.

The day also includes another break time around Selfoss before you continue back toward Reykjavík. That matters because you’ve been active earlier. You’ve walked, you’ve stood in geothermal air, and you’ve been photographing in wind and cold. A real break—rather than another rushed stop—makes the return ride more bearable.

Many guides also adapt. A few recent trips mention additional sights added by the guide, including places like Gjàin / Tear Canyon-style stops (based on how some departures ran). I wouldn’t treat that as guaranteed, but it’s a good reminder: a good guide isn’t just moving you; they’re trying to make the day match the conditions.

If your guide is attentive—one highlight that came up repeatedly—this kind of adjustment can turn an already-packed day into something that feels extra personal.

Price and Value: Why $226 Feels Reasonable Here

At $226 per person for a 13-hour guided outing, the price isn’t cheap. But for Iceland, it’s often fair—especially when you compare what this covers.

You’re paying for:

• Guided transport from Reykjavík into a remote highland region
• A live English tour guide for the whole experience
• Wi-Fi on board
• Landmannalaugar facility fees
• Time at multiple major highlights: crater lake(s), long highland hike time, geothermal bathing, and big waterfalls

What isn’t included is key: food and drinks. So your real cost depends on what you pack or buy during breaks. The best value comes when you treat this like a day trip that you prep for: snacks, water, and a simple plan for lunch.

Also, consider opportunity cost. Driving yourself into the highlands means dealing with long distances, route decisions, road conditions, and parking. Even if you rent a car, you still need to manage getting to multiple waterfalls plus the Landmannalaugar trail—on top of Iceland’s changing weather. This tour offloads that stress.

The potential drawback tied to value is comfort. Some people describe the vehicle as cramped. That’s not a deal-breaker for most, but it’s part of what you’re paying for: guided access more than luxury seating.

What to Pack (and What to Skip) for a Smoother Day

You’ll be doing a moderate hike and then bathing in geothermal water. That combination changes what matters most in your day-pack.

Bring:

• Swimwear and a towel (for the hot-spring pool)
• Hiking shoes with grip
• Water and snacks/food (since meals aren’t included)
• Weather-appropriate clothing (layers beat one heavy coat in Iceland)

Skip the “maybe” items. If you don’t bring swimwear, you’ll miss the main reward. If you skip good hiking shoes, the uneven volcanic ground can feel harsher than you expect.

Also bring a small dry bag or at least a sealed pouch. Not because the day is a disaster, but because changing logistics at the pool site can be basic. Keep your camera, phone, and extra layers protected.

Who Should Book This (and Who Might Want a Different Plan)

This tour fits best if you want a guided highland day and you’re comfortable with a hike that’s described as moderate-level. You don’t need climbing gear, but you do need basic hiking fitness and reliable footwear.

It’s a strong match for:

• People who want to see Landmannalaugar + Háifoss in one go
• First-timers who want geology explained in plain language
• Travelers who like structured stops and don’t want to drive long, remote routes

It might not fit if:

• You have mobility limitations (this tour isn’t suitable for people with mobility impairments)
• You’re planning with very young kids (not suitable for children under 8)
• You dislike long days. Several reviews note the day is long, even though it’s enjoyable

If you’re the type who hates being on a vehicle for hours, you might prefer splitting into separate excursions. But if you can handle a long day, this is a high-hit tour: waterfalls, geothermal soak, crater lake color, and volcanic hiking all in one schedule.

Should You Book BusTravel Iceland’s Landmannalaugar & Háifoss Tour?

I’d book it if you want one guided day that delivers Iceland’s highland “wow” factor without the stress of driving and route planning. The strongest reason to choose it is the combination: a real hike, then hot-spring bathing, then multiple waterfall stops—all with a guide who explains the geology and keeps the day moving.

I’d think twice if you’re sensitive to discomfort in tight seating or if you’re worried about moderate hiking. Also, go in with the expectation that Iceland weather can change the day. Pack for that. If you do, you’ll likely come back with the kind of memories that stick.

FAQ

How long is the Reykjavik to Landmannalaugar and Háifoss tour?

The tour duration is listed as 13 hours.

Is food included on the tour?

No. Food and drinks are not included, so you’ll want to bring your own.

What should I bring for the hot springs at Landmannalaugar?

Bring swimwear and a towel. You’ll also want water and snacks/food since meals aren’t included.

Where do I meet the tour in Reykjavík?

Meet at Tour Bus Stop 12, Höfðatorg (on Þórunnartún).

Is hotel pickup included?

Hotel pickup and drop-off are not included, but pickup is optional depending on the option you select on your voucher.

How difficult is the hike at Landmannalaugar?

The tour involves a moderate-level hike, so you should be prepared for walking on uneven ground and weather changes.

Is this tour suitable for children or for mobility needs?

It’s not suitable for children under 8. It’s also not suitable for people with mobility impairments.