Landmannalaugar

A stunning high-altitude geothermal area famous for its colorful rhyolite mountains, hot springs, and pristine wilderness in the heart of Iceland's interior. It's the starting point for the popular Laugavegur Trail and offers unforgettable hiking, camping, and natural hot spring bathing surrounded by dramatic volcanic landscapes.

Things to do

• Laugavegur Trail Hiking — Embark on Iceland's most famous four-day trek through colorful mountains, geothermal valleys, and alpine terrain, starting from Landmannalaugar.
• Soak in Landmannalaugar Hot Spring — Bathe in the natural geothermal hot spring pool surrounded by rhyolite mountains at the base camp.
• Hike Bláhnúkur Summit — Climb this distinctive obsidian and rhyolite peak for panoramic views of the multicolored mountain range and surrounding geothermal area.
• Explore Frostastaðavatn Lake — Hike to this pristine alpine lake nestled among colorful mountains, offering reflection views and excellent photography opportunities.
• Visit Brenntinstaðir Colorful Mountains — Trek to these vividly striped rhyolite ridges featuring layers of red, yellow, green, and pink minerals created by geothermal activity.
• Explore Landmannahellir Cave — Discover this historic turf-covered shelter and outlaw cave situated among the mountains with views across the geothermal plateau.
• Photography of Rhyolite Formations — Capture stunning images of Iceland's most colorful mountains in various light conditions, particularly striking during golden hour and midnight sun seasons.

Food to try

• Bacalao (Salt Cod) — A traditional Icelandic preparation of salt-cured cod served at mountain huts and lodges, offering sustenance for hikers.
• Icelandic Lamb Stew — Hearty slow-cooked lamb with root vegetables and herbs served at mountain accommodations, providing warming comfort after day hikes.
• Rye Bread Soup — A traditional geothermal-baked dark rye bread sweetened soup often served warm, reflecting Iceland's traditional use of geothermal heat for cooking.
• Fresh Mountain Spring Water — Pure glacial and geothermal spring water freely available throughout Landmannalaugar, essential for hydration during hiking.
• Skyr and Berries — Creamy Icelandic yogurt paired with locally foraged arctic berries and bilberries found in the region's wilderness.

Local customs & good to know

• Mountain Hut Etiquette — Respect shared accommodation spaces, clean up after yourself, and be prepared for communal living as huts often house multiple hikers in bunk rooms.
• Geothermal Hot Spring Courtesy — Rinse thoroughly before entering natural hot springs, avoid soap, and respect other bathers by maintaining appropriate distance and quiet contemplation.
• Leave No Trace Principles — Pack out all waste, stay on marked trails to protect fragile alpine vegetation, and never remove colorful rocks or minerals as souvenirs from this protected area.
• Weather Preparation Mindset — Accept that conditions can change dramatically and quickly in the interior; locals expect visitors to be self-sufficient and properly equipped for any season.