Hiking in Fjallabak Nature Reserve 4 Days
4 Day - Landmannahellir - Brennisteinsalda - Mt. Loomundur - Sigoldugljufur canyon - Haifoss - Gjain
Tour overview:
Fjallabak Nature Reserve, home to Landmannalaugar, the starting base of the world-famous Laugavegur trail, beckons travellers with much more than its renowned route. While the characteristic landscapes of Laugavegur are celebrated globally, Fjallabak's lesser-known tracks offer a unique, undisturbed experience. Located in the central Highlands of Iceland, this captivating reserve boasts rugged landscapes, colourful rhyolite mountains, volcanic formations, geothermal hot springs, and an untouched wilderness. With a tapestry of red, orange, yellow, and green mountains combined with snow patches and rugged, mossy lava fields, the area paints a vivid picture of Iceland's volcanic past.
Day 1 - Arrive Landmannahellir
We will depart from Reykjavik at 08:00, embarking on an exciting journey. Our route will take us eastward through the captivating mountains along Highway 1. We'll pass through the charming towns of Hverageroi and Selfoss, continuing our adventure through Domadalsleio into the breathtaking highlands. Before reaching our cozy cabin, Landmannahellir, we'll embark on a scenic hike up to the magnificent Rauoufossar, immersing ourselves in their natural beauty and exploring their origins. We'll settle into our cabin at Landmannahellir, where we'll spend the next three nights.
Day 2 - Brennisteinsalda
Today, we begin by driving into Landmannalaugar, a journey of about 30 minutes. A geological wonderland, offering a surreal and enchanting natural experience for those who venture into its diverse and colorful landscapes. It's a place where visitors can immerse themselves in the raw beauty of Iceland's Highlands and appreciate the forces that have shaped this captivating region. Here, we'll immerse ourselves in the largest and most stunning rhyolite area in the country, embarking on an adventurous hike. Our trail will lead us through Blagil, up Brennisteinsalda (881 m / 2890'), down Vondugil, and through Laugahraun, showcasing the mesmerizing landscape. After our hike, we'll indulge in a relaxing soak in a hot bath in the river. We'll then drive back to our cabin in Landmannahellir.
Day 3 - Mt. Loomundur (Landmannahellir - Reykjavik)
Today is dedicated to an exhilarating mountain climbing experience. We'll set out from the cabin, hiking up to the summit of Mt. Loomundur, the highest peak in the Fjallabak region (1,077m / 3533'). The summit offers a mesmerizing panoramic view of the southern part of the country in all directions.
Day 4 - Sigoldugljufur canyon - Haifoss - Gjain - Reykjavik
Today marks our return journey. We'll pack up and begin our hike from the cabin, heading towards Sigalda. Here, we'll embark on a memorable walk, exploring the awe-inspiring Sigöldugljúfur canyon. After about an hour of hiking, we'll continue our journey, admiring the majestic waterfalls of Háifoss and Granni. If time allows, we'll also stop at Gjáin before returning to Reykjavik in the late afternoon.