Private Tour to Landmannalaugar. Explore the Highlands

Exploring Iceland’s Highlands can feel like stepping onto another planet, and a private tour to Landmannalaugar offers a front-row seat to this alien landscape. With a well-crafted itinerary, knowledgeable guides, and options for hiking, bathing, and sightseeing, this experience promises a full day of natural wonder — and plenty of Instagram-worthy moments. From lava fields to geothermal pools, it’s a day packed with contrasts that capture the essence of Iceland’s wild beauty.

Two things I particularly like about this tour are the personalized attention you get from the private setting and the chance to relax in the hot river—a genuine highlight. The guide’s insights seem genuine and friendly, making the long drive feel shorter, especially with stops at iconic sites like the Hnausapollur crater and Sigöldugljúfur, which are just as breathtaking as the photos suggest.

A possible consideration is the weather unpredictability in Iceland, which can sometimes lead to cancellations, especially in winter. It’s wise to keep flexible plans and be prepared for sudden changes in weather—something I learned from fellow travelers’ experiences. Still, this is a common challenge in Iceland, and when the weather cooperates, the landscapes reveal their full magic.

Key Points/Takeaways

• Exclusive Private Experience: Tailored to your interests and group size, providing a more relaxed and personalized day.
• Stunning Landscapes: Lava fields, colorful Rhyolite mountains, volcanic craters, and waterfalls are all part of the journey.
• Hot River Bathing: The name Landmannalaugar means “Land of the People’s Pools,” and you’ll have the chance to soak in natural geothermal pools.
• Educational Stops: Learn about the Laki eruption of 1784 and its impact on Icelandic history and landscape.
• Guided Hike Options: Enjoy an easy to moderate 2-hour hike, with a guide like Kalman who gets high praise for being accommodating and knowledgeable.
• Unique Photo Opportunities: Expect Instagram-worthy shots at every turn, especially at Hnausapollur crater and Sigöldugljúfur.

Entering the Land of the Highlands

This private tour offers an intimate look at some of Iceland’s most dramatic landscapes — lava fields, volcanic mountains, and geothermal wonders. The drive itself is part of the experience, with comfortable transport (a Mercedes Benz Minibus) that picks you up from Reykjavik or Hveragerði. The 11-hour journey is long but packed with stops, and the personal nature of a private group means your guide can tailor the experience to your pace and interests.

The Highlands are a place where volcanic activity has shaped the scenery over millennia, and the colorful Rhyolite mountains are a signature feature. As the name suggests, the landscape was once a thoroughfare for travelers seeking the geothermal pools that earned the area its nickname. You’ll love the way the natural hot springs invite you to relax after an easy hike or a long day of exploration.

Navigating the Itinerary: What You’ll See and Do

Starting Point and Pickup

You can choose to be picked up either from Reykjavík or Hveragerði. This flexibility makes it easier to coordinate your trip without backtracking. The tour begins early, with 11 hours packed with sights, so setting off in the morning helps you maximize daylight, especially in winter.

Highland Drive and Landmannalaugar

The highlight of the day is reaching Landmannalaugar, which translates to “Land of the People’s Pools.” This area is famous for its lava fields and vividly colored Rhyolite mountains—a palette of reds, pinks, and greens that look almost surreal. Here, you’ll have about five hours to explore, hike, and relax.

While the landscape seems otherworldly, what makes the experience special is the chance to bathe in the natural geothermal pools. According to reviews, this is a genuine highlight — “Our guide Kalman was very accommodating and we saw a lot of interesting things,” says Petra. After a hike, soaking in these warm waters provides a perfect way to unwind and enjoy the scenery.

Volcano and Crater Highlights

The Hnausapollur crater is a stunning water-filled volcanic crater that looks like a jewel against the rugged landscape. You’re likely to spend about an hour here, taking photos and marveling at its striking blue waters. Many travelers note that it’s just as breathtaking in real life as in pictures.

The Valley of Tears: Sigöldugljúfur

Next, the tour visits Sigöldugljúfur, a deep gorge with waterfalls cascading down its walls. The “Valley of Tears” is a fitting nickname, given the dramatic scenery and the sound of rushing water. Here, you’ll also spend an hour exploring, taking in the natural spectacle and snapping photos.

Optional Hiking

For those eager to stretch their legs, a 2-hour hike is available. It’s described as easy to moderate, perfect for most fitness levels. Guides like Kalman are praised for their friendly approach and their ability to make everyone feel comfortable, whether you’re an experienced hiker or just looking to enjoy a leisurely walk.

Practicalities and Logistics

The tour costs $1,495 per group up to six people, which might seem steep but includes a fully private experience, a knowledgeable guide, pickup and drop-off, and complimentary snacks and drinks. The value here is in the personalized attention and the ability to customize the experience — if you want more hiking, more photo stops, or to skip certain sites, your guide can usually accommodate.

The tour lasts about 11 hours, beginning early with availability depending on the season. Weather can be unpredictable, so it’s wise to have warm clothing, a swimsuit, a towel, and hiking shoes. Keep in mind that cancellations are possible in winter if conditions are too harsh, so flexibility is key.

The included amenities—free bottled water, fresh coffee, and Icelandic snacks—are small but appreciated touches, making the long day more comfortable.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is ideal for travelers who want a personalized, in-depth look at Iceland’s Highlands, especially if you value comfort and flexibility. It’s perfect for those who enjoy hiking, photography, or simply want to see iconic landscapes with a guide who can share insights and stories. The private group setting makes it suitable for couples, families (over age 10), or small groups of friends.

If you’re concerned about weather or prefer a more relaxed pace, this tour offers the chance to tailor the day. It’s particularly good if you want to avoid large tour buses and enjoy the landscape at your own pace.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

For those craving an authentic adventure with a personal touch, this private Landmannalaugar tour offers excellent value. The stunning scenery—vivid mountains, volcanic craters, waterfalls, and geothermal pools—speaks for itself. The guides, especially Kalman, earn glowing reviews for their accommodating, knowledgeable approach.

While the price might be a consideration, it covers the convenience of private transportation, expert guiding, and flexible planning, which can be hard to find in group tours. The experience also offers a rare chance to relax in natural hot springs after a day of exploration—a genuine Icelandic highlight.

This tour best suits travelers who want a well-rounded, customizable day in the Highlands, and who appreciate the comfort of a private group. If you’re up for a day of natural beauty, some light hiking, and plenty of photographic opportunities, it’s a memorable way to see Iceland’s wild side while enjoying the company of a friendly guide.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 11 hours, starting early in the morning. Exact times depend on the season and availability.

Where does the tour pick up from?
You can choose between Reykjavik or Hveragerði for pickup, providing flexibility based on your accommodations or plans.

Is hiking included?
Yes, there’s an easy to moderate 2-hour hike option. The guide can tailor the experience based on your interests and fitness level.

What should I bring?
Warm clothing, swimwear, a towel, and hiking shoes are recommended. Weather can change quickly, so layers are advisable.

Can the trip be canceled?
Yes, especially in winter or poor weather conditions, the trip might be canceled. Cancellations are free if made at least 24 hours in advance.

What is included in the price?
The fee covers private transportation, a knowledgeable guide, pickup and drop-off, Wi-Fi on the bus, and complimentary snacks and drinks.

Is this experience suitable for children?
It’s best for children over age 10, as the hikes and weather conditions may not be suitable for younger kids.

How personalized is the experience?
Being a private tour, it allows for customization based on your interests, whether that’s hiking, photography, or relaxing in hot springs.

Is the tour good value?
Considering the private setting, expert guiding, and all included amenities, many travelers find this tour to be a worthwhile investment for a memorable day in Iceland’s Highlands.