Reykjadalur Hot Spring Thermal River

The basics

You'll find different soaking points along the river depending on how hot or cool you like your waters, but many people favor the point where the hot springs water and the cold river water mix. There are also plenty of hiking trails in the area if you want to extend your walk. While many visitors come independently, it’s often easier to opt for a tour from Reykjavik that includes transportation and guide services.

Things to know before you go

• Reykjadalur Hot Spring Thermal River is a must for fans of hot springs.

• Wear shoes that can get you comfortably uphill.

• Getting to the thermal river requires hiking, and it's not suitable for wheelchair users or those needing mobility support.

• Make sure to bring a towel and a swimsuit and be prepared for primitive changing facilities.

How to get there

The easiest way to reach Reykjadalur Hot Spring Thermal River is by joining a tour that includes transportation from Reykjavik or renting a car and driving yourself. You can also get there by taking a bus to Hveragerði and then taking a taxi to the base of the hike—or walk from the town.

When to get there

The best time to visit the hot springs is from late spring until early fall, when the weather is most pleasant for hiking. However, if you come in summer, expect crowds. If you arrive outside of those months, expect the possibility of ice or snow, and go with an experienced guide for safety reasons.

Where to find Iceland’s hot springs

Iceland is rich in geothermal activity, making it an ideal destination for hot springs fans. While there are natural springs throughout the country, there are also plenty of more developed options, including the Geosea Geothermal Baths in Húsavik and the most famous of them all, Reykjavik’s Blue Lagoon. Sky Lagoon is among the newest complexes, offering beautiful views out over the sea just outside Reykjavik, while the not-so-secret Secret Lagoon is the oldest.

Ways to explore

Plan to spend half a day at the thermal river. The hike takes about an hour each way, and you may want to soak in multiple spots, as the water gets hotter the farther upstream you go.

Guided hiking tours of the Reykjadalur Valley let you explore the geothermal scenery with a local, who can pick you up from Reykjavik and show you the best places for a soak. To amp up the adventure, book a buggy or horseback riding tour to the thermal river, or choose an evening excursion to bathe with views of the aurora borealis.

Accessibility

Due to the steep terrain through the valley, the Reykjadalur Hot Spring Thermal River is not wheelchair accessible.

Age limits

The hike to the river can be challenging for kids and seniors, and some tours don’t allow children younger than 8 years old.

What to pack

Swimsuit, towel, water bottle, water shoes for stepping over the rocks

What to wear

Hiking shoes, warm layers, and waterproof clothing are always recommended in Iceland, as the weather can change quickly.

Not allowed

Stick to leave-no-trace principles when visiting the river, and don’t veer off marked trails—the valley’s smaller hot springs and mud pools are too hot for bathing.

Amenities

There are partially covered changing stalls along the river, while the paid parking area has bathrooms with more privacy.

Address

About an hour outside of Reykjavík in southwestern Iceland, the Reykjadalur Hot Spring Thermal River is an easy drive from the capital. If you’d rather not rent a car, book a guided tour that includes round-trip transportation from Reykjavik.

Driving

From Reykjavík, it is about a 26-mile (42-kilometer) drive southeast on Route 1 (also known as the Ring Road). You will find paid parking in the lot near the trailhead.

Public transportation

Booking a guided tour is often more practical than relying on public transportation. The 51 bus from Reykjavík drops off in Hveragerði, which is a scenic but lengthy 2.5-mile (4-kilometer) walk from the thermal river.

Best times to visit

Most people go to Reykjadalur at midday. Set out in the early morning for a peaceful bath, or go in the evening from June–August for a midnight sun experience.

Best days to visit

The thermal river gets most crowded with locals and tourists on weekends. To find quieter spots for soaking, go on a weekday.

Best months to visit

The best time to visit the hot springs is from late spring until early fall, when you can bypass the summer crowds while enjoying green landscapes and pleasant hiking weather.