The highlands of Landmannalaugar Nature Reserve are a superb example of mind-blowing landscapes. Traveling by super jeep is fun and adventurous and they provide a more private and relaxed atmosphere with the small group sizes.
The route takes us from Reykjavik to Þjórsárdalur valley where we stop at Hjálparfoss waterfall, meaning the Helping Falls. This name comes from historical times when travelers arrived at this lush area and their horses could graze and recover.
After Hjálparfoss we'll be leaving the green farmlands of the lowland and we head for the highlands where the stunning wilderness awaits us.
The highlands are the super jeep's natural habitat. Crossing rivers and driving on coarse gravel roads on your way to Landmannalaugar will give you an experience to remember. We will make a stop at Crater Lake Ljótipollur, formed in 1477 and now filled with a cobalt-blue deep lake.
Landmannalaugar is a region forged by different and compelling geological elements, such as extensive lava fields and the multi-coloured rhyolite mountains. Awash in a rainbow of colours, the mountains fade from pink to brown and green, with splashes of yellow, blue, purple and black in between.
There is a good opportunity to bring out any lunch-packs or snacks you have upon arrival at Landmannalaugar, before we take off for a short hike. If you prefer you can go straight to the pool for a relaxing bath.
On our way back we will take the Dómadalur route that takes us through lava fields and between the mountains, truly a unique scenery. Vikings would drown thieves there in the old days, binding their hands and feet and throwing them into the falls from the high cliff.
If conditions allow, we will stop to by volcano Hekla and take a walk in the lava fields. Hekla was nicknamed "the Gateway to Hell" in the Middle Ages, and for good reason – it's Iceland’s most active volcano and she last erupted in 2000.
We head back to the city in the evening sun.
Bring a swimsuit and seize the chance to bathe in the warm natural pool. At Landmannalaugar, colourful rhyolite mountains fill the views, indicating that geothermal activity is everywhere.
We hope the memories of Landmannalaugar's majestic scenery and of our thrilling super jeep excursion will stay with you forever.
