Over four incredible days, complete the iconic 55-km (34-mile) Laugavegur Trail, trekking through colorful rhyolite mountains, black sand deserts, and lush valleys. Camp under the stars in Iceland’s pristine wilderness, with your luggage transported for a hassle-free adventure. Guided by experts, this unforgettable journey combines raw natural beauty, breathtaking contrasts, and the thrill of exploring one of the world’s most celebrated trails!
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The Laugavegur Trail is Iceland’s iconic trekking route, spanning 55 kilometers (34 miles) from Landmannalaugar’s geothermal wonders to Þórsmörk’s lush valley. The journey weaves through colorful rhyolite mountains, expansive lava fields, glacial rivers, and stark obsidian deserts.
Starting in Landmannalaugar, hikers are welcomed by steaming hot springs and bubbling mud pools, embodying the trail’s name, "Hot Spring Route." As the path unfolds, the scenery shifts dramatically—from Álftavatn Lake’s tranquil waters to Þórsmörk’s verdant birch forests, surrounded by glaciers and rugged peaks.
Camping under the stars will make your adventure truly special:
Your adventure begins with an early morning departure from Reykjavík, followed by a scenic 3–4 hour drive to Landmannalaugar. Along the way, you’ll take in sweeping views of the South Coast before entering the rugged Highlands, passing by the infamous Hekla Volcano.
The Laugavegur Trail starts in the vibrant geothermal region of Landmannalaugar. Before jumping into the full trek, you’ll spend the first day on a warm-up hike to get your legs moving and ready for the days ahead. This scenic loop winds through some of the area’s most unforgettable terrain, including the surreal Laugahraun lava field, the colorful Grænagil gorge, and the impressive Bláhnjúkur volcano. It’s the ideal way to settle into the rhythm of the trail while taking in the raw beauty of the landscape.
You’ll spend the first night in Landmannalaugar. In the evening, enjoy a hearty dinner, connect with fellow travelers, and unwind in the calm and beauty of the Icelandic wilderness.
Distance: 8 km (4.9 mi). Walking time: 4-5 hrs. Ascent: 470 m (1 540 ft).
We’ll kick off the day by crossing the Laugahraun lava field, surrounded by rugged terrain and lava formations. Along the way, you’ll pass the vividly colored slopes of Brennisteinsalda, then continue toward the steaming rhyolite mountains of Reykjafjöll. The path climbs through narrow gorges, winds past the hot springs of Stórihver, and follows bold yellow ridgelines. The scenery soon shifts dramatically as you enter the dark, glistening expanse of the Hrafntinnusker obsidian desert. Here, we’ll take a well-earned break and enjoy lunch in this striking and remote landscape.
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 campsite 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-meter-deep (656 ft) 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 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.
After the trail, you’ll board the highland bus and depart for Reykjavík, arriving in the city at around 9:30 p.m.
Distance: 15 km (9.5 mi). Walking time: 6 - 7 hrs. Descent: 300 m (985 ft).
Accommodation in tents and all meals are included, you can rest assured our knowledgeable guide will show you the very best spots and lead you safely and sound all the way. Your guide organizes the meals, although assistance from participants is appreciated. You will meet people from all over the world – enjoy being part of a friendly team!
Meeting points and times in Reykjavik:
Between 7:00 - 7:30 a.m.:
- Reykjavik's City Hall (Ráðhúsið) on Vonarstræti
- Hallgrímskirkja Church
- Reykjavik Campsite
*Note that it can take up to 30 minutes before the bus departs the given locations.
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.
Get ready for the adventure through the highlands of Iceland with our trekking guide: Laugavegur Trek Handbook
We have a maximum of 16 participants on the hut tour and 14 participants on the camping tour. The group size just depends on how many book for each departure.
Yes, we recommend to bring a water bottle that you can then fill with the tap water at the huts/campsites. It’s perfectly safe to drink and delicious. There are also several streams along where people tend to get more water from. It’s safe just ask the guide.
We always recommend our participants to use gaiters. The weather in Iceland can be quite wet so the trails subsequently get wet as well. They are not necessary but do help a lot and keep you from getting drenched when the rain starts to pour.
We recommend bringing hiking poles on the trek. However, they are not necessary and it depends on your personal preference. Many people prefer to have them for the river crossings and if you are used to hiking with poles then you should bring a pair with you. It’s also possible to rent a pair from us in the booking process.
Showers are found in every hut/campsite. Using the showers costs 1000 ISK and can be paid for at the warden’s hut at each hut/campsite.
The WC have toilet paper and soap for washing your hands. Anything else you might need for example shampoo, bandages, towels, washcloths, nail clippers etc. you will need to bring with you.
Since we are in the middle of nowhere there is very limited electricity at the huts and the access is restricted to a few power outlets if any. We always recommend bringing a portable charger. If you don’t have one and charging is necessary for you while on the trek, you will need to invest in one.
The main luggage is transported between huts by a support vehicle provided by us. You will only need to carry a smaller day backpack with your lunch, water bottle, medication, sunglasses, river crossing shoes, rain gear, and other items or clothing you might need for the day.
There is a limit of 1 piece of luggage for each participant that can weigh up to 20 kg (+ your day backpack). Since there is limited space on the luggage trailer we kindly ask that you try to pack light out of consideration to other passengers on the tour. If you have extra luggage that you would like to leave, we recommend storing luggage at the BSI Bus terminal (fees apply) or another luggage storage space in Reykjavik.
The supported car will need to cross rivers to get between huts so we recommend a waterproof duffel bag since your luggage can get wet along the way. We also recommend that you put dry clothing and items in a plastic bag.
Our standard menu includes milk products, fish, nuts, meat, and bread. For trekkers with special dietary requirements, a supplement is required to cover the cost of purchasing additional food to accommodate these needs. This applies to those who are vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, have allergies, or have other specific dietary preferences. The supplementary fee can be paid at checkout, where customers are also asked to specify their dietary requirements. We will arrange for the necessary food to meet those needs, ensuring the best meals for everyone.
Yes, you can rent a sleeping bag from us. You can purchase the rental when booking the tour OR you can add it to you booking at least 2 days before the tour starts.
Note that a sleeping bag cannot be rented once you are on the tour.
Yes, you can purchase the single tent rental either when you book the tour or by adding it to your booking at least 2 days before the start of the tour.
The only information we would appreciate from you is whether you have any medical issues we should be aware of.
If you have any food restrictions, please have a look at our special food extra.
There is no WiFi in the huts but there are spots along the trail and by the huts where you can get 3G/4G connections. However, the connection is very flaky so we don’t really count on it.
The meals are prepared by all participants, guides and the team. Although the guide is usually the leader on the project this can go all ways. We have found that this brings the group together and makes a nice, fun and cozy atmosphere. Make food and friends at the same time.
