6-Day Guided Laugavegur Trek with Fimmvörðuháls Highlights (Huts)

Your adventure begins with an early morning departure from Reykjavik. We'll set off on a scenic drive to Landmannalaugar, which takes about 3 to 4 hours. Along the way, you’ll enjoy views of Iceland’s South Coast before heading into the wild landscapes of the Highlands—passing by the famous volcano, Hekla. 

The Laugavegur Trail starts in Landmannalaugar, but instead of diving straight into the full trek, we'll spend the first day warming up with a shorter hike. This loop takes you through some of the area’s most stunning sights, including the lava-filled Laugahraun field, the Grænagil gorge, and the Bláhnjúkur volcano. It’s a gentle but inspiring start to the days ahead. 

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).

We’ll begin the day walking through the rugged Laugahraun lava field, then pass the colorful volcanic slopes of Brennisteinsalda. From there, the trail leads toward the steaming rhyolite mountains of Reykjafjöll. Along the way, you’ll climb through narrow gorges, pass the bubbling Stórihver hot spring, and cross striking ridges painted in shades of yellow. 

The scenery quickly shifts as we enter the black obsidian desert of Hrafntinnusker. Here, we’ll stop for lunch and take in the raw, dramatic beauty of this otherworldly 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 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. On our way to the city, you can glimpse Seljalandsfoss waterfall, one of the most popular tourist attractions in Iceland. We return to Reykjavik in the early evening at around 6:30 p.m. 

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

PICK UP TIMES & PLACES:

Meeting points and times in Reykjavik:
Between 7:00 - 7:30 a.m.:

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

Meeting points and times outside Reykjavik:

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

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

Get ready for the adventure through the highlands of Iceland with our trekking guide: 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.