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How to Get to Iceland's Hot Springs | Reykjadalur
Iceland is full of incredible places, but few combine nature, hiking and relaxation as well as reykjadalur, an authentic outdoor thermal river In the middle of the mountains. The hot water springs from the mountains, creating one of the best hot springs in the country. Best of all: it's Free and accessible with an easy walk, ideal for those looking for some hassle-free hiking in Iceland and an unforgettable experience.
- 📍 Location: Near Hveragerði, South Iceland
- 💰 Price: Free entry
- 🅿️ Parking: 15–60 minutes 200 ISK. Additional hours 250 ISK
- 📅 Access: All year round (can be tricky with snow)
- 🕒 Best time: All day, quieter during sunrise and sunset
How to get there and where to parkcar at the Reykjadalur thermal river
Without a doubt the best way to visit this thermal river is on your own by rental car or camper van. It is located just 45-minute drive from Reykjavik or 1h 15min from Gullfoss, Reykjadalur is a perfect stop if you are in route through southern IcelandYou can buscar the starting point of the route by searching on Google Maps Reykjadalur Café o Reykjadalur Parking.
If you do not have a vehicle, it is also possible to hire one. tour Departing from Reykjavik, the price is high as this is not a regular excursion. Another, though less common, alternative would be to take the bus to Hveragerði from Reykjavik. From there, it's about 4 km to the trailhead.
Where to parkcar to visit Reykjadalur
Luckily the Reykjadalur River is one of the many Iceland's free hot springs, but its parking is paid and has cameras that record the length of stay. The rates are:
- 15–60 minutes: 200 ISK
- Each additional hour: 250 ISK
You can pay by EasyPark app or at the payment machines available on-site. Keep in mind that the trip there, back, and to the bathroom will take at least 3 hours.
Walking route to the Iceland's hot spring river
The route to Reykjadalur is an easy trail through IcelandThe trail is well signposted and easy to get lost: it starts directly from the parking lot and takes you straight to the hot springs river without detours. It's also in very good condition and there's no steep gradient, making it a perfect route for people unfamiliar with walking long distances or for those with children.
Walk step by step
The route to the thermal river begins from the parking lot. The path is a smooth and steady climb for about 3.5 km.
- Start in the parking lot: leaving from the parking lot, you will see a cartel indicating the start of the path to Reykjadalur.
- Climb between mountainsThe first section ascends gradually along a well-marked dirt path, overlooking the Hveragerði Valley.
- Fumaroles and colored mountainsAs you continue, you will begin to see smoking fumaroles and mountains filled with minerals in reddish, ochre and green tones.
- Last stretchYou'll start to see steam rising from the hot springs in the distance. The wooden walkway will soon appear, indicating your arrival.
- Walkways and bathing areaOnce you're in the river, you'll see a series of footbridges that run along the edge. You can follow them, testing the water temperature (the higher up, the warmer).
- Small dressing roomAfter a few minutes on the walkways, you'll notice a small outdoor changing area. The areas around it are usually the most pleasant temperatures.
Once there, all that's left is to stay in your swimsuit, overcome the Icelandic cold, and enjoy bathing in a river of thermal water, something that only exists in a few places in the world, such as Iceland, Arenal in Costa Rica, or Rotorua in New Zealand.
Tips And is it worth it? go to Reykjadalur?
Before finishing the article, we'll leave you with some final tips on how to get to Iceland's hot springs, what to keep in mind, and what to pack in your backpack.
- He wears a hat To bathe like this you will maintain the temperature of your head and you will be much more comfortable.
- Don't forget a raincoat, the weather changes quickly and it will help you protect your things while you bathe.
- Go now with your swimsuit on, so you only have to change once and it's better if you have a large towel to cover yourself when you leave.
- In winter With snow and ice it can be more difficult to access, wear crampons in the cold months and calculate that it will take you a little longer to get to Reykjadalur.
- There are no showers or toilets, take everything you need and remember do not use any chemicals.
- To enjoy the site in complete peace you can go at sunrise or sunsetThe trail is in perfect condition and doing it in low light will not be a problem.
And if, Reykjadalur is totally worth itIt's one of Iceland's most unique experiences: an easy hike through volcanic landscapes, with fumaroles and colorful mountains, ending in a natural hot spring surrounded by nature.
We hope that our guide to visit the thermal river of South Iceland, has been helpful in organizing your trip. If you have any questions, or if any information has changed, please leave it in the comments 😊. To continue organizing your adventure, you can read the other Guides for traveling to IcelandIf you enjoy hiking, check out articles like Thakgil or Circle of the waterfalls.
Happy journey!
