Landmannalaugar & SecretGems | Private Tour | PRO Photos included

A private day into the Icelandic Highlands is interesting for one simple reason: you stack major scenery in one run, then add PRO photos included so you can stop fussing with the camera and just look. I also like the practical side, free admission at the stops means your money goes to the day, not ticket math.

The main drawback to plan around is the long time on the road plus the Highlands mood. You can expect rougher driving and no food and drinks provided, so you’ll want to eat before pickup and keep your snacks handy.

Key Highlights

• Private group for up to 5 means pacing stays human, not rushed
• Waterfall trio hits fast: Hjálparfoss, Haifoss, Sigöldufoss in one flow
• Bláhylur gorge and crater lakes bring turquoise water against black and basalt rock
• Landmannalaugar hot springs gives you a real recharge after the hiking time
• Hotel pickup and drop-off from Reykjavik keeps the day simple
• PRO photos included so you capture the day without missing moments

Reykjavik Pickup to the Rugged Highlands: What Your Day Really Feels Like

This is a full 11-hour private tour built for people who want Iceland’s interior, not just the postcard stops. It starts at 8:30 am, with hotel pickup and drop-off in Reykjavik, and it’s designed for a group of up to 5 people.

I like the private setup because it changes your experience. You are not waiting for a big bus schedule. If you want extra time near a waterfall, or you’d rather move quickly to the next viewpoint, the stops can be adjusted. The total day length stays the same, but the minutes you spend at each stop can flex.

Now, the road part matters. The Highlands approach includes rough tracks and bumpy stretches, and the schedule even calls out that the ride is on some of the bumpiest paths. That’s not a dealbreaker, but it means you should dress for movement, bring a layer you can keep on and off, and expect a little jostling.

Also, you’ll need to be weather-ready. This experience requires good weather, and if it gets canceled for poor conditions, you’ll be offered another date or a full refund. That’s the Highlands reality: the scenery is worth it, but Iceland makes the call based on what the road can safely handle.

Hjálparfoss to Haifoss: The Waterfall Run That Works as a Photo Plan

Your day kicks off with drive time to the Highlands. Once you arrive, the first stops are short, focused, and intentionally close enough to feel like a route, not separate adventures.

Hjálparfoss: basalt steps and a first wow moment

At Hjálparfoss, you’ll see a two-stepped waterfall near striking basalt rock formations. The stop is about 30 minutes, and with that kind of time, you should expect quick scouting, a couple of angles, and then settling in for photos.

The basalt setting is the detail that makes it feel more Icelandic than generic. Water always looks dramatic here, but the rock textures give you extra depth in the frame, especially on overcast days when the lighting is soft.

Possible drawback: the short stop means you won’t linger for long. If you want a long, slow sit-down session, you’ll need to prioritize your best viewpoint fast, then grab your shots.

Haifoss: one viewpoint, three waterfalls in your single frame idea

Next is Haifoss, with a chance to view the third largest waterfall in Iceland from a nearby viewing spot. This stop is also about 30 minutes, and you get an extra bonus: you can potentially capture Haifoss and Granni Waterfall together from the same general area.

This is a smart pacing choice. If you’ve ever chased waterfalls all day, you know the moment you find a viewpoint that lets you frame multiple falls, that’s your time saved. It’s efficient without feeling like a drive-by.

A small consideration: to get the best results with water shots, you may need steady positioning and a bit of patience while other people shift around. With a private group, you usually have more breathing room, but the viewing area is still public.

Sigöldufoss: Valley of Tears Energy, Without the Whole-Day Commitment

After Haifoss, you move to Sigöldufoss, located in the canyon often referred to as the Valley of Tears. Again, this is a 30-minute stop, which keeps the day moving while still giving you time to breathe.

What makes Sigöldufoss worth the stop is the canyon context. A waterfall in an open plain can be pretty. A waterfall inside a canyon feels like a set piece, like the terrain is working with the water to shape the view.

If you’re the type who likes variety, this stop gives you a different texture than the earlier waterfalls. You go from basalt formations and single-fall drama into a more enclosed, canyon-heavy atmosphere.

Bláhylur: The Turquoise Gorge Stop I’d Plan Around

Stop 4 is where the color often steals the show. Bláhylur is described as a secret gorge with turquoise water, framed by dramatic landscapes on both sides of the canyon and lake.

This stop runs about 50 minutes, which is longer than the waterfall sequence. That extra time matters because the best photos usually require you to move around a bit, wait for lighting, and find your angle.

You also pass by two volcanic craters, Bláhylur and Ljótipollur, filled with blue water. Even if you’re not a geology nerd, you’ll feel the “volcanic aftermath” vibe here. The color is the hook, but the contrast is what makes it look unreal: the bright water against harsh rock.

One practical note: the gorge stop sounds like a simple viewpoint moment, but plan for footing and wind. Canyon areas can feel exposed. Wear shoes you’re comfortable standing in for a while, and bring a layer you can handle if the weather changes.

Landmannalaugar: Hot Springs, Rainbow Hills, and the Time You Actually Need

Finally, you reach Landmannalaugar, the big destination. The schedule gives you about 2 hours 30 minutes, which is a good chunk of time for both photos and a real reset.

Landmannalaugar is known for hiking trails surrounded by rainbow-colored mountains, plus a geothermal oasis with hot springs. In plain terms, this stop is where you stop collecting views and start enjoying a slower Iceland moment.

Here’s how I’d use your time:

• Start with a quick “wide view” walk to take in the colored slopes.
• Then choose one short hike or trail segment that fits your comfort level.
• Save the hot springs for when you want the day to feel rewarding, not exhausting.

The hot springs are the payoff after the road and the walking. If your previous stops have you slightly cold or tired, a warm soak can make the rest of your day feel easier during the return drive.

A drawback to know: this is an outdoors stop with real terrain. Even though the tour says most travelers can participate, you should still be ready for uneven ground and the kind of weather that can change fast in the Highlands.

PRO Photos Included: Why This Tour Feels Less Like Work

A lot of tours say they have great photos. This one includes photographs from the tour, and the team behind it is known for serious photo skills.

In the past, guides like Miro and Michal have been praised for being able to shoot well while keeping the day relaxed. One report even highlighted Miro packing vlogging gear for a full day, so you are not stuck trying to manage equipment while also running after a shot. Another mentioned Michal scouting epic backdrops and helping with drone and vlog tips.

What does that mean for you? You can show up with your phone and still leave with strong images. If you care about video, it helps to tell your guide what you’re trying to create, since they can plan stop timing and angles around that.

Also, the PRO-photo approach changes how you experience the scenery. You can look with your own eyes first, then let the guide handle the shot timing. In practical terms, you’ll spend more time in the moment and less time stuck behind your camera settings.

Timing, Weather, and Flexible Stops in the Icelandic Highlands

The schedule is built as a sequence of short stops followed by one longer anchor at Landmannalaugar. That structure is great for variety, but it also means you should be realistic about your time.

The tour notes that time spent on each stop is flexible depending on preferences, while the overall duration stays the same. Translation: you can ask for more time at a favorite spot, and the day can bend a bit. You just cannot turn it into a three-day hike marathon.

Weather is the other big factor. The tour requires good weather. If conditions are poor and the experience is canceled, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund. That’s worth respecting, because in the Highlands the weather is not a background detail. It affects safety, road access, and how comfortable the stops feel.

My tip: pack like a person who expects fast changes. Bring layers, a wind layer if you have one, and something waterproof for surprise mist. Even on clear days, the Highlands can feel raw and exposed.

Price and Value for a Private Group Up to 5

The price is $2,407.02 per group (up to 5) for about 11 hours. That might sound high until you break down what you’re actually buying.

You’re paying for:

• Private driving and guide time for the entire day
• Hotel pickup and drop-off in Reykjavik
• Included photographs from the tour
• Free admission tickets at the listed stops
• A route that reaches the Highlands rather than sticking to the usual outskirts

Food and drinks are not included, so you’ll plan your own lunch or snacks. But you’re not paying admission fees at the stops, and you’re not paying extra for the photo part.

For groups, the per-person cost gets much more reasonable fast. If you’re traveling solo, you might compare it to a standard group day tour plus separate photo services. If you want a private day and you care about having strong visual memories, this pricing tends to make sense.

The value equation tips further in your favor if you really want Landmannalaugar plus the waterfall and Bláhylur stops. This is a lot of different scenery in one push, and not everyone can self-drive a Highlands route safely and comfortably.

Who Should Book This Highlands Day, and Who Should Rethink It

Book this tour if you want a one-day hit of classic Iceland scenery plus volcanic color stops, without the stress of managing logistics. It’s a strong fit for:

• People who like waterfalls plus canyon views
• Anyone who wants Landmannalaugar hot springs as a reward
• Photo and video fans who appreciate PRO photos included
• Small groups who want private pacing, not bus timing

You might want a different plan if:

• You cannot handle bumpy, rugged driving for long periods
• You dislike hiking on uneven ground, even if it’s limited by the stop time
• You need food provided, since there’s no food or drinks in the package

The private format helps a lot. It’s easier to manage comfort when you’re not squeezed into a big group schedule.

Should You Book Landmannalaugar and SecretGems?

If you’re aiming for a high-impact day that mixes waterfalls, volcanic color at Bláhylur, and the geothermal payoff at Landmannalaugar, I think this is a smart book. The included PRO photos add real value, and the free admissions remove a common annoyance.

My call: book it if you can handle the Highlands weather plan and you’re happy to bring your own snacks or lunch. If you do that, you’ll likely come home with the kind of day you remember in detail, not just the parts you managed to photograph.

FAQ

What time does the Landmannalaugar and SecretGems tour start?

The tour starts at 8:30 am.

How long is the tour?

The duration is about 11 hours.

Is this a private tour?

Yes. It’s listed as a private tour/activity, and only your group participates.

How many people can be in the group?

The price is per group up to 5 people.

What’s included in the price?

The included items are photographs from the tour, a driver/guide, and hotel pick-up and drop-off.

Are admissions included for the stops?

Yes. The itinerary lists admission ticket free at each stop shown.

Is food or drinks included?

No. Food and drinks are not included.

What language is the tour offered in?

The tour is offered in English.

What happens if the weather is poor?

The experience requires good weather. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.