Everything You Should Know Before You Go To Langisjor in Iceland

Ever wondered what it's like to stand by a lake so remote and untouched that few travelers even know it exists? Langisjór in Iceland is exactly that: a stunning, high-altitude lake surrounded by volcanic landscapes and rugged mountains hidden deep within Iceland's Highlands.

Surprisingly, we think many people underrate this location, often overlooking its beauty in favor of Iceland's more famous spots. In this guide, you'll find everything you need to explore Langisjór to the fullest, from tips on getting there and the best times to visit to top hiking trails, fishing spots, and camping options. Ready to uncover Iceland's best-kept secret? Let's dive in!

An Overview of Langisjór in Iceland

Langisjór is a large lake nestled within the rugged Icelandic Highlands, stretching approximately 20 kilometers (12.4 miles) in length and 2 kilometers (1.2 miles) in width. Aptly named 'Long Sea,' this glacial lake remained undiscovered until the mid-19th century, making it one of Iceland's hidden gems.

Elevated at 670 meters (2,198 feet) above sea level, Langisjór lies between the breathtaking Fögrufjöll and Tungnárfjöll mountain ranges, framed by dramatic landscapes shaped by ancient volcanic forces. Langisjór is one of Iceland’s most remote and pristine lakes, a true haven for adventurers seeking solitude. Its seclusion preserves the lake’s untouched beauty and offers a serene refuge for wildlife.

Located within Vatnajökull National Park, it's a sanctuary for nature lovers, hikers, and photographers alike. Numerous trails lead to panoramic viewpoints, including the summit of Sveinstindur, offering sweeping views.

The Geography and Formation of Langisjór

Langisjór was formed during the last Ice Age through intense subglacial volcanic activity. Powerful eruptions occurred beneath Iceland's massive ice sheets, melting sections of ice and creating deep depressions, which later filled with meltwater to form the lake.

Some areas of Langisjór reach depths of up to 75 meters (246 feet), filled with natural springs and glacial melts, resulting in clear, pure waters. The surrounding landscape is defined by unique geological formations such as tuyas, which are flat-topped mountains formed from lava eruptions under ice.

The peaks of Fögrufjöll and Tungnárfjöll, including Sveinstindur at 1,092 meters (3,583 feet) and Breiðbakur at 1,018 meters (3,340 feet), add to Langisjór's dramatic scenery.

How to Get to Langisjór in Iceland

Reaching Langisjór in Iceland requires navigating the mountain roads F208 and F235, the primary access routes to this remote Highland lake. Open only in the summer months, these rugged paths demand a 4×4 vehicle, as regular cars aren't suited for the challenging terrain.

No regular buses, guided tours, or super jeep services head to Langisjór, making this a true adventurer's destination. Positioned on the border of Iceland's southern and central Highlands, Langisjór is accessible only via F-roads or highland tracks.

For the more daring, dirt tracks lead to the lake as well, but they require extra driving skill and caution. Here is an in-depth look at what you can expect on each route.

F235 (The Easiest Route)

The F235 is the easiest route to access Langisjór and offers a scenic, relatively straightforward drive. Here's what you need to know:

• Road Quality: F235 is well-maintained with few large potholes or obstacles, making it accessible for any 4WD vehicle.

• River Crossings: Small river crossings, streams, or puddles are common, but extensive river crossing experience is not required.

Route to access:

• First, navigate F208, a highland road linking the south coast with central Iceland.

You can approach the F208 from two directions:

• F208 North: Involves several smalls to medium river crossings.

• F208 South: Requires crossing one medium river near the Hólaskjól hut.

Vehicle recommendation:

• For safety, especially in wet conditions, we would recommend a medium-sized 4WD like a Dacia Duster.

More Challenging Routes

If you're looking to get to Langisjór in a more adventurous way, there are alternative routes beyond the main F235 road. These paths are dirt tracks rather than official F-roads and require significant 4×4 driving experience due to frequent medium-sized river crossings and challenging terrain. A larger 4x4, such as a Toyota Land Cruiser, is recommended for these routes.

Driving these tracks can be risky, and rental insurance may not cover them, so it's wise to check with your rental company beforehand. While these routes are more demanding, they offer a thrilling experience for 4×4 enthusiasts eager for a true off-road adventure rather than simply reaching Langisjór quickly. Let's break down three alternative routes:

1. The Skælingar Blautulón Route

The Skælingar Blautulón route is the only access route to Langisjór from the southeast, offering a challenging yet scenic journey. Here's what to expect:

• Initial River Crossing: One major river crossing near the Hólaskjól highland center marks the beginning of the route.

• Terrain: The track becomes increasingly rugged with steeper inclines and declines after this initial crossing.

• Warning: Snow may be present on the track, even in July, so be cautious on this route.

• Highlight: The route's star attraction, Blautulón Lake, must be crossed by driving through it.

2. The Faxasund Route

The Faxasund route is a rugged, scenic dirt road that provides access to Langisjór from the northwest. Here's what you need to know:

• River Crossings: Expect small to medium-sized river crossings along the route, requiring a confident 4×4 driver.

• Steep Hillside Sections: Some parts of the track include steeper hillside areas that add to the adventure.

• Challenging Segment: Near the junction with F208, the track becomes particularly rough, covered with millions of sharp stones.

• Caution Required: Drive carefully here to avoid tire damage and protect your vehicle's undercarriage.

3. The Botnlangalón Route

The Botnlangalón Route is the most challenging track to reach Lake Langisjór, named after the remote Botnlangalón Lake. Here's what drivers should expect:

• Location: Northernmost and westernmost access route to Langisjor in Iceland.

• Terrain: Features a harsh, moon-like landscape with unmaintained sections, including larger holes and bumps.

• Driving Challenges: The route includes steep ascents and declines, frequent river crossings, and a lengthy segment along Blautulón Lake's edge, which requires drivers to navigate within the lake's boundary on its bank for several hundred meters.

• Duration: The route is time-consuming and demanding, even for experienced drivers, who may hesitate to repeat it.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Langisjor in Iceland is during the summer months when the highland roads are accessible. Routes F208 and F235, which lead to Langisjór, are generally open between mid-June and mid-July, depending on road conditions marked as green or dashed green on the Icelandic Road Map.

By September, these roads often become impassable as weather conditions change, closing off access to this remote location. For the best experience, plan your visit between mid-July and early September, when Iceland's summer is at its peak, and the highlands are at their driest, ensuring safer driving and easier access.

Activities at Langisjór

As we've established, Langisjór is an off-the-beaten-path destination. So if you love isolated, untouched natural landscapes, this is the ideal place to visit. Here is what you can expect to do during your trip to Langisjor in Iceland:

Hiking Trails

There are three main Langisjór hiking trails, namely:

• The Sveinstindur Trail

• Trail Around Langisjór Lake

• Trail Around Uxatindar Mountains to Eldgjá

Here is a brief description of each trail:

The Sveinstindur Trail

The Sveinstindur Trail is a rewarding hike offering breathtaking views of Langisjór and the surrounding lunar-like landscape. Here's what to expect:

• Length: 4 km (2.5 miles)

• Time: Approximately 2 hours

• Difficulty: Moderate

• Trail: Well-marked, out-and-back path

Trail Description:

• Intense climb up a narrow, rocky path, taking around 1 hour.

• Offers panoramic views from the summit, ideal on clear days.

• Recommended for hikers in good physical condition seeking one of Iceland's hidden gems.

Trail Around Langisjór Lake

The trail around Langisjór Lake offers an adventurous hike with stunning views. Here's a quick overview:

• Length: 11 km (6.8 miles)

• Time: Approximately 4 hours

• Difficulty: Difficult

• Trail: Around Sveinstindur trail, encircling the lake's southern edge

Trail Description:

• The circular path loops around Langisjór's southern edge and turns southward, ascending toward Sveinstindur.

• Not well-marked, so it's best for seasoned hikers and advisable later in the season.

• Ideal for hikers comfortable with unmarked, rugged paths.

Trail Around Uxatindar Mountains to Eldgjá

The trail around Uxatindar Mountains to Eldgjá is a challenging multi-day hike for experienced adventurers. Here's what to expect:

• Length: 50 km (31 miles)

• Time: 2 - 3 days

• Difficulty: Very difficult

• Trail: Around Langisjór Trail, remote and rugged

Trail Description:

• Perfect for a secluded, scenic hike in Iceland's Highlands.

• Poorly marked; multi-day cold-climate experience is essential.

• Be prepared for lake and river crossings, and avoid hiking alone due to the trail's isolated nature.

Fishing and Kayaking

Langisjór is celebrated for its pristine waters, making it one of Iceland's premier fishing destinations. Anglers can find abundant Arctic char and trout, especially near the cabin peninsula and the lake's southern end.

A fishing license, available at the Hólaskjól Highland Center about 20 kilometers (12.4 miles) away, is required and costs around 5,000 ISK, while children under 15 can fish for free. For those seeking a peaceful water experience, kayaking on Langisjór's tranquil waters offers a unique perspective and an alternative way to explore the lake's stunning surroundings, ideal for nature lovers and adventure-seekers alike.

Camping at Langisjór

Camping at Langisjor in Iceland provides a unique way to experience Iceland's Highlands, with stunning views of the lake and surrounding mountains. The main campsite includes a car park, a warden's hut that is occupied only in summer, and two modern flush toilets, but other facilities are minimal. 

For those seeking solitude, wild camping is permitted. Campers must follow Leave No Trace principles to protect the environment by packing out all waste, respecting wildlife, and minimizing their impact. Camping costs are ISK 2,800 for adults and ISK 1,400 for children aged 7–17.

Note that showers are not included, adding to the rustic adventure.

Nearby Attractions Around Langisjor

To make the most of your visit to Langisjór, consider adding these stunning nearby attractions to your itinerary:

• Eldgjá: Known as the 'Fire Canyon,' Eldgjá is the largest volcanic canyon in the world. It's a beautiful, rugged location ideal for a hike, offering dramatic views of ancient lava formations.

• Ófærufoss: This striking waterfall cascades within Eldgjá Canyon and is a favorite among photographers. With its unique two-tiered flow and scenic surroundings, Ófærufoss is a must-see for nature lovers.

• Fjaðrárgljúfur Canyon: Just a short drive from the Langisjór area, Fjaðrárgljúfur Canyon boasts steep, winding, lush cliffs carved by glacial waters. It offers multiple viewpoints and scenic trails along its edge, which makes it ideal for exploring and capturing unique photos.

• Vatnajökull National Park: Home to Iceland's largest glacier and multiple highland routes, Vatnajökull National Park is perfect for adventurous visitors. Enjoy glacier hikes, vast volcanic landscapes, and views of Iceland's stunning Highlands.

Practical Tips for Your Visit 

Here are essential tips for making the most of your trip to Langisjór while staying safe and respecting the environment:

• Choose the Easiest Route: If it’s your first time in the Icelandic Highlands, take the F235 both to and from Langisjór for a safer drive.

• Check Weather Conditions: Plan your visit outside of heavy fog to ensure visibility and make the scenic drive worthwhile. Icelandic weather is unpredictable, so always check the forecast and carry appropriate gear.

• Head there only in the summer: Not only because of road accessibility but also for enjoying the full experience with milder weather and extended daylight.

• Respect the Ecosystem: Stick to marked paths to protect Iceland’s delicate vegetation and avoid disturbing wildlife. Follow Leave No Trace principles by packing out all waste to keep the area pristine.

• Drive Carefully: Highland roads are challenging, so drive cautiously, especially near river crossings, and avoid solo hiking in remote areas.

• Hike Sveinstindur: On clear days, if you’re physically fit, hike to the top of Sveinstindur for breathtaking views.

• Combine Destinations: For a full itinerary, consider adding nearby attractions like Eldgjá and Ófærufoss to your trip.

What to Pack

When preparing for a trip to Langisjór, pack carefully to handle the rugged Highland terrain and unpredictable weather. Here's a list of essentials:

• Sturdy Hiking Boots: Essential for stability and comfort on rocky, uneven trails.

• Weatherproof Clothing: Pack layers and waterproof gear to stay warm and dry in Iceland's variable climate.

• Navigation Tools: Bring a map, GPS, or a compass, as trails may be unmarked, and the signal can be limited.

• Extra Food and Water: Remote areas may have no services, so pack enough supplies.

Making the Most of Your Trip To Langisjor in Iceland

Making the most of your trip to Langisjor in Iceland means embracing every aspect of this remote adventure. From the challenging F-roads to the breathtaking trails, Langisjór offers a true Icelandic experience for nature lovers and thrill-seekers alike. 

To fully explore this hidden gem, rent a reliable car in Iceland suited for the trip, as it's essential for navigating the rugged Highlands. As you venture through untouched landscapes, hike scenic paths, and camp by the lake, you'll discover why Langisjór is a place unlike any other. Ready for an unforgettable journey? Langisjór in Iceland is waiting for you to explore its wild beauty.