Explore Iceland’s highland contrasts on a private day tour from Reykjavík. Hike colored rhyolite hills, peer into blue crater lakes, and stand before the storied slopes of Hekla — all in one long, scenic day.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
You step out of the vehicle into a wind that seems to move the whole landscape — a raw, highland air that carries steam and the mineral tang of old eruptions. Rhyolite hills stand striped in rusty ochre and pale green; a glassy crater lake catches the sky in an impossible blue. This private day tour threads the quieter corners of Iceland’s southern highlands, from the rainbow slopes of Landmannalaugar to the long shadow of Hekla.
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
10–11 hours
Fitness Level
Moderate fitness: able to do multiple short walks (15–60 minutes) over uneven ground and tolerate a long day in a vehicle
Wildlife
History
Hekla has been a focal point in Icelandic saga and folklore for centuries and its frequent eruptions helped shape settlement patterns in the south.
Conservation
The highland vegetation is extremely vulnerable—stay on designated routes, pack out waste, and avoid off-trail driving to limit impact.
Reserve your spot on the Highland Wonders: Landmannalaugar & Hekla Volcano Private Tour today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Layer for sharp weather swings
Pack a breathable insulating layer and a windproof shell — temperatures and wind can change rapidly in the highlands.
Sturdy footwear matters
Trails are uneven lava and gravel; ankle-supporting hiking boots will keep you comfortable on short hikes and shoreline scrambles.
Bring snacks and water
The full-day itinerary has limited stops for resupply — carry at least 1–2 liters of water and high-energy snacks.
Respect fragile moss and tundra
Stay on marked tracks and avoid stepping on moss; vegetation recovers very slowly after disturbance.
Waterproof hardshell jacket
Keeps you dry and protected from wind and sudden showers common in spring highlands.
spring
Sturdy hiking boots
Support and grip for volcanic gravel, lava fields, and wet shorelines.
Insulating mid-layer (fleece or down)
Traps heat during chilly stops and windy viewpoints in cooler seasons.
fall
Daypack with water bladder
Carries snacks, water, camera, and extra layers for a long day of out-and-back stops.
summer