8-Day Grand Laugavegur Trek & Iceland's Highlights (Huts)

Your tour will start with an early morning departure from Reykjavik. We’ll hit the road for a scenic drive to Landmannalaugar, which takes about 3 to 4 hours, depending on the season. You'll catch views of the South Coast along the way before entering the Highlands. From the passenger's seat, you’ll see Iceland’s most active volcano, Hekla, cheerfully nicknamed "The Gateway to Hell.” 

The starting location for the Laugavegur trek is Landmannalaugar. We’ll hike through Vondugil Canyon and Laugahraun Lava Field, whose barren features perfectly contrast the beautifully colorful rhyolite mountains and volcanoes like Brennisteinsalda. If the time allows, we’ll visit the Graenagil Gorge and Bláhnjúkur Volcano. 

We'll spend our first night at Landmannalaugar. In the evening, we'll enjoy a delicious dinner, get to know each other better, and unwind in the trail’s only natural geothermal hot spring, an unforgettable experience surrounded by Iceland’s stunning highland beauty.

Distance: 8 km (4.9 mi). Walking time: 4-5 hrs. Ascent: 470 m (1 540 ft).

The second day of our trek begins with a nourishing breakfast, leaving us energized and ready for the adventures ahead. The day starts with an ascent through small gorges, the Stórihver hot spring area, and striking yellow mountain ridges. The landscape soon shifts dramatically to the black obsidian desert of Hrafntinnusker, where we’ll pause to enjoy lunch amidst this unique terrain.

From Hrafntinnusker, we descend into the gullies of Jökultungur, a geothermal wonderland filled with steaming hot springs and bubbling mud pools. Over time, geothermal activity has painted these gullies in vivid shades of yellow and red, contrasting beautifully with the pale sand-toned peaks around them. At the top of Jökultungur, we’ll take in breathtaking views of the Fjallabak region and, weather permitting, catch glimpses of the Mýrdalsjökull, Eyjafjallajökull, and Tindfjallajökull glaciers. 

To reach our accommodation near Álftavatn lake, we’ll wade across a river—a thrilling yet safe experience. The day concludes with a hearty dinner and a chance to relax, soaking in the tranquil beauty of the lake and its serene surroundings.

Distance: 24 km (14.9 mi). Walking time: 8 - 9 hrs. Ascent: 900 m (2,952 ft).

After a hearty breakfast, we’ll set off for another exciting day of trekking. The journey begins with a stream crossing, now a familiar and fun part of the adventure, before we head into the vast black sand desert of Mælifellssandur. Along the way, we’ll pass the striking volcanoes of Stórasúla and Hattafell, their green moss-covered slopes standing out beautifully against the dark, rocky landscape.

If the weather is clear, we’ll be treated to incredible views of the Eyjafjallajökull and Mýrdalsjökull glaciers. These iconic volcano-glaciers are steeped in history—Eyjafjallajökull famously disrupted air travel in 2010 with its powerful eruption, and Mýrdalsjökull hides the unpredictable Katla volcano beneath its ice.

As we continue, the dramatic Markarfljótsgljúfur canyon comes into view. This stunning 200 m (656 ft) deep gorge, carved by a glacial river, is a real highlight of the day. We’ll eventually reach Botnar, a green oasis nestled in the middle of the black desert, where we’ll spend the night. After a delicious dinner, you can relax and enjoy the tranquil scenery in the soft evening light.

Distance: 15 km (9.5 mi). Walking time: 6 - 7 hrs. Descent:  40 m (130 ft).

On day 4, we will set out on the final stretch of the Laugavegur Trail, leaving the dramatic landscapes of Emstrur behind as we make our way toward Þórsmörk. The trail leads us through the scenic Almenningar gorge, with the striking silhouette of Mount Einhyrningur (Unicorn Mountain) rising against the sky. Along the way, we’re treated to stunning glacier views of Eyjafjallajökull and Mýrdalsjökull. 

As we approach Þórsmörk, the landscape begins to change. Sparse trees start to appear, gradually giving way to the dense birch forests that make this valley so unique. The air grows fresher, filled with the sounds of birds and the rustling leaves. Finally, we arrive in the lush oasis of Þórsmörk, surrounded by towering mountains and glaciers—a perfect place to celebrate the incredible accomplishment of completing the world-famous Laugavegur Trail.

Distance: 15 km (9.5 mi). Walking time: 6 - 7 hrs. Descent: 300 m (985 ft).

The hike to the Magni and Modi volcanic craters offers a stunning journey through Iceland’s rugged and ever-changing volcanic landscape. This path follows part of the fimmvörðuháls Trail, starting and ending in the lush Þórsmörk valley. Walk surrounded by steep mountains and glaciers, shaped by the 2010 eruption of Eyjafjallajökull. Along the way, you'll pass through black sand plains, sharp lava ridges, and remnants of recent geological activity, all framed by distant glaciers and dramatic skies. 

As you approach the craters, the landscape transforms into a stark, otherworldly terrain of fresh lava fields and steaming vents. The craters, named after the sons of Thor in Norse mythology, offer incredible views into their jagged rims and the surrounding volcanic features. On clear days, you’ll be rewarded with panoramic views of Mýrdalsjökull glacier and the Highlands, a stark contrast to the raw volcanic textures underfoot. The trail itself is moderately challenging, with some steep sections and loose gravel, requiring good footwear and a reasonable level of fitness. 

Distance: 16 km (10 mi). Walking time: 7 - 8 hrs.

We will spend the last day exploring Þórsmörk and the surrounding area. If weather conditions allow, you can take on a steep hike up Mount Útigönguhöfði. For those who are not up for a challenge, a stroll to Húsadalur might be an option, or just relaxing around Langidalur before returning to Reykjavík.  

After the trail, you’ll board the highland bus and depart for Hella. You’ll spend the night in a comfortable countryside hotel in preparation for our visit to Iceland's famous South Coast the next day.  

Distance: 6 km (3.5 mi). Walking time: ~3 hrs. Ascent: 275 m (902 ft).

On the final day of our journey, we’ll explore Iceland’s stunning South Coast. The day begins with breakfast at your hotel, followed by a pick-up for a scenic drive to Seljalandsfoss waterfall, where a 60 m (196 ft) cascade tumbles into a lush valley. You can step behind the waterfall to experience its magic from a unique angle. 

Next, we’ll visit Skogafoss waterfall, known for its wide, thundering cascade and a hillside path offering panoramic views. Along the climb, you’ll see two intriguing rock formations, said in legend to be trolls turned to stone by the sunrise. 

Then, we’ll head to Reynisfjara, a famous black sand beach, known for its tall basalt columns, crashing waves, and sea stacks called Reynisdrangar. The beach is stunning but powerful, so we’ll keep a safe distance from the water. 

Our tour concludes at Solheimajokull glacier, a dramatic expanse of ice flowing from the larger Mýrdalsjökull glacier. At the base camp, our expert guide will provide equipment and a safety briefing before leading us onto the glacier itself, sharing insights into its formation and role in shaping Iceland’s landscape. 

Finally, we’ll return to Reykjavik, dropping you off at a designated bus stop or drop-off point within the city close to your hotel.  

*Please note that only breakfast at your accommodation is included on this day. Meal stops will be available for additional purchases. Throughout the day, there will be stops where you can purchase food and beverages.  

In the early morning, we’ll start exploring the famous Golden Circle route. Our first stop is Thingvellir National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the founding location of the oldest parliament in the world. You’ll walk through the gap between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates! 

Next, we’ll visit the Geysir geothermal area. This active geothermal field is packed with steaming fissures, bubbling hot springs, and geysers. The highlight is Strokkur Geyser, known for its spectacular eruptions, shooting water up to 40 m (131 ft) every 5-8 minutes. 

Our third stop is the massive Gullfoss waterfall. It plunges 32 m (105 ft) in two stages into a rugged canyon that’s 70 m (229 ft) high. The first drop is 11 m (36 ft), and the second is 21 m (69 ft), making Gullfoss a true showstopper. 

To wrap up the day, we’ll head to the Secret Lagoon, a relaxing geothermal hot pool surrounded by hot springs and mini geysers. After a day full of incredible sights and relaxation, we’ll head back to Reykjavík, where you'll be dropped off. 

*Please note that only breakfast at your accommodation is included on this day. Meal stops will be available for additional purchases. Throughout the day, there will be stops where you can purchase food and beverages.  

*Note that it can take up to 30 minutes before the bus to collect you depending on your location and traffic.  

Pick-up times and places in Reykjavik:

Between 7:00 - 7:30 AM

• Reykjavik's City Hall (Ráðhúsið) on Vonarstræti
• Hallgrímskirkja Church
• Reykjavik Campsite

Pick-up times and places outside Reykjavik:

• 8:15 AM from Selfoss N1 Gas Station
• 9:00 AM from Hella Bus Stop

Get ready for the adventure through the highlands of Iceland with our Laugavegur Trek Handbook.

Please note that our trek itineraries are subject to change due to various circumstances beyond our control, such as weather, group ability, and safety. All adjustments to the itinerary will be made to ensure the best possible experience.  

Prefer to travel light? We’ve got you covered. We rent waterproof pants and jackets, hiking boots, trekking poles, and sleeping bags. Choose your gear at checkout or add extras later via My Adventures after booking.