Canonical URL: https://www.iceland.org/forests/fjallabak Content updated: 2026-09-10 This is the Markdown representation of the page. Interactive tools and forms are available on the [HTML page](). Source-check and review dates retain the meanings stated in the article. --- # Fjallabak Nature Reserve: Landmannalaugar and the Highlands A highland nature reserve that includes Landmannalaugar, colorful rhyolite mountains, natural hot springs, and the start of the Laugavegur hiking trail. F-road access only. Updated September 10, 2026 · [Published by Iceland.org]() · [Writing & review]() Region Highlands F-road access only. 4x4 required. Summer access. ## Quick Answer Fjallabak Nature Reserve sits in Iceland's central highlands. It lacks the traditional forests found elsewhere on this list, but its highland vegetation, colorful rhyolite mountains, steaming hot springs, and vast lava fields make it a landscape of its own. The reserve includes Landmannalaugar, probably Iceland's best-known highland destination, and the start of the Laugavegur trail, one of the world's best-known multi-day hikes. Sources and page update Updated: 2026-09-10 Highland F-roads are only open in summer (typically late June–September). A 4x4 vehicle is mandatory. River crossings may be required. Check road.is and safetravel.is before every trip. For sourcing standards and how to report an error, see the editorial policy. Official sources to check - [Weather (IMO)]() - [Road status (road.is)]() - [SafeTravel alerts]() - [Environment Agency of Iceland]() Best for Landmannalaugar + hot springs Colorful mountains and natural bathing in a highland setting. Access F-road only (4x4) Highland roads open summer only. No regular vehicles. Pro tip Check roads first Always verify F-road status on road.is before departing. ## What to Expect - Colorful rhyolite mountains - Natural hot springs for bathing at Landmannalaugar - Start of the 55 km Laugavegur hiking trail - Vast obsidian lava fields and volcanic formations - Highland campsite at Landmannalaugar with basic facilities - The Laugavegur trailhead, with 55 km of varied terrain to Þórsmörk ## Nearby Attractions - [Þórsmörk nature reserve]() (end of Laugavegur trail) - [Háifoss waterfall]() (accessible by 4x4) - [Hekla volcano]() (visible from the reserve) - Ljótipollur explosion crater lake with deep red slopes - Frostastaðavatn lake for highland camping ## How to Get There - Choose the exact approach to Landmannalaugar and check its road classification, vehicle requirements and river crossings - Summer bus services (Reykjavik Excursions, Trex) run daily from Reykjavik (4 hours) - About 190 km from Reykjavik but the highland portion is slow, so allow 5-6 hours driving - River crossings required on most approach routes; do NOT attempt in a standard car - The main base is Landmannalaugar with a mountain hut, campsite, and natural hot springs ## Best Time to Visit - Summer access depends on the actual road opening and conditions, not fixed calendar dates - July-August: Best weather, trails fully snow-free, hot springs comfortable for bathing - Late September: Autumn colors on highland moss, but nights can drop below freezing - October-May: Completely inaccessible, with roads closed and the area snowbound at 600m elevation - Early July: Laugavegur trail typically fully open for through-hiking to Þórsmörk ## September 12, 2026: choose another hiking route The [Nature Conservation Agency’s September 9 notice]() asks visitors to avoid the routes to Grænahryggur through Halldórsgil or from Skallahringur on Saturday, September 12, during sheep gathering. It also asks visitors to stay out of Jökulgil and Hattver that day. Other walks remain available in the reserve; ask the rangers which suit the conditions. This is a dated request for those routes, not a closure of the entire reserve. Rangers can provide details at +354 822 4083 or [fjallabak@nattura.is](). Recheck notices before travelling after September 12. Planning help ## Fjallabak Nature Reserve FAQs Quick answers with safety notes where it matters. **What is the Fjallabak Nature Reserve?** Fjallabak Nature Reserve is a highland nature reserve in the interior of Iceland, known for its colorful rhyolite mountains, hot springs, and the start of the Laugavegur hiking trail. It is not a traditional forest, but it supports distinctive highland vegetation. **Is Landmannalaugar part of Fjallabak?** Yes, Landmannalaugar is the most famous area within the Fjallabak Nature Reserve, known for its natural hot springs, colorful mountains, and as the starting point of the Laugavegur trail to Þórsmörk. **How do I get to Fjallabak?** Fjallabak is accessible only via F-roads (highland roads) that require a 4x4 vehicle with high clearance. The roads typically open in late June or early July and close again in September or October depending on conditions. **What is the Laugavegur trail?** Laugavegur links Landmannalaugar with Þórsmörk over about 55 km. Plan the stages around booked accommodation, current trail conditions and the ability of your group; it is a separate multi-day undertaking from a Landmannalaugar day walk. **When is the best time to visit?** July and August are the best months, when F-roads are open and conditions are most favorable. The hot springs at Landmannalaugar are accessible during this period. Always check road conditions on road.is before traveling. [All forests]() Country reference: [Iceland statistics]().