Laugavegur Trail

Itinerary

Day 1 : Meeting the guide and a mountain bus to Landmannalaugar

You will meet the guide in Reykjavík early in the morning before taking a regular mountain bus to Landmannalaugar in the heart of the highlands. Expect to arrive at Landmannalaugar around noon, allowing some time to relax and enjoy a dip in the warm, natural river bath. This unique geothermal feature enhances the allure of the surrounding mountain range. In the afternoon, the trek commences with an ascent along the lava edge of Laugahraun, a lava field formed at the end of the 15th century. The trail meanders through vibrant hills dotted with smoking hot springs and set against a backdrop of colourful mountains. As you progress, you will traverse patches of old snow, which linger on the highest part of the trail at Hrafntinnusker, often resisting the summer melt until late in the season.

The day's hike concludes at the Hrafntinnusker Mountain Hut, where you will spend the night. Walking 4 to 5 hours. Ascent 600 m, descent 100 m.

Day 2 : Trail with fuming and boiling hot springs

The day’s adventure begins as the trail leads us through a fascinating landscape marked by a continuous series of fuming and boiling hot springs. The geothermal activity in the area creates an otherworldly atmosphere, with plumes of steam rising from the earth and pools of bubbling water scattered along our path. The terrain gradually ascends, guiding us towards a prominent ridge that stretches southwards.

Following the ridge, we are rewarded with a breathtaking viewpoint that offers panoramic vistas of the surrounding region. From this vantage point, the mighty Mýrdalsjökull glacier dominates the horizon, while the notorious Eyjafjallajökull volcano—famous for disrupting air travel in 2010—stands nearby. Closer to our position, smaller, verdant mountains add a splash of green to the dramatic scenery.

Between two mountain ridges, a serene lake named Álftavatn comes into view. The tranquil waters of the lake contrast beautifully with the rugged landscape. On the northern shore of Álftavatn, our hut awaits, providing shelter and a place to rest for the night after an invigorating day of hiking. Walking 4 to 5 hours. Ascent 100m, descent 600m.

Day 3 : Across the hills of Brattháls to Botnar

After leaving Álftavatn—aptly named Swan Lake for its tranquil beauty—the journey continues as we traverse the undulating hills of Brattháls. The landscape unfolds before us, offering a blend of lush green slopes and rugged terrain, setting the tone for the day’s adventure.

Soon, we reach the river Kaldaklofskvísl, which we cross using a sturdy footbridge, allowing for a safe and steady passage. Not long after, we encounter a second river, Bláfjallakvísl. Unlike the previous crossing, this river must be forded on foot, providing an invigorating experience and a closer connection to the raw Icelandic landscape.

With feet warmed by the brisk walk, the path leads onwards to the river Innri Emstruá. Here, another bridge facilitates our crossing, and we pause to admire an impressive waterfall cascading in the river below—a striking highlight of the day’s trek.

Dominating the horizon, the verdant mountain Hattfell rises above a vast plain of black sand and gravel. This stark yet captivating terrain must be crossed before we reach the dramatic Markarfljót canyon, which plunges to depths of up to 180 metres (590 feet). The sheer scale and natural beauty of the canyon provide a memorable backdrop as we approach the final stretch.

The day’s walk concludes at Botnar, a small oasis nestled in this dramatic environment. Here, our mountain hut awaits, offering well-earned rest and shelter after a rewarding journey. Walking 6 to 7 hours. Ascent 150m, descent 250m.

Day 4 : Canyon of Fremri-Emstruá to Þórsmörk

The day begins with a descent towards the canyon of Fremri-Emstruá. A bridge spans the depths of the canyon, allowing for a secure crossing amidst the dramatic surroundings. Once across, the route follows the course of the river, leading through the stark beauty of the highlands.

The path gradually ascends two notable hills. From these elevated vantage points, walkers are rewarded with breathtaking views of the Eyjafjallajökull and Mýrdalsjökull glaciers, their icy expanses gleaming in the distance. The panorama from this section is truly remarkable, showcasing the grandeur of Iceland’s volcanic landscape.

Descending from the second of these hills, the trail approaches the river Þröngá. Unlike previous crossings, this river must be forded on foot, offering an invigorating experience before the last stretch of the day’s journey.

Beyond Þröngá, the landscape transforms as the path enters the enchanting birch woods of Þórsmörk. The scenery here is reminiscent of fantastical realms, with tuff cliffs and ridges forming a variety of unique shapes and formations. The atmosphere evokes memories of the Lord of the Rings films, imbuing the walk with a sense of adventure and wonder.

The day concludes with arrival in the verdant valley of Langidalur, a tranquil setting where the group will spend the night. Walking 7 hours. Ascent 200 m descent 400 m.

Day 5 : The Fimmvörðuháls pass and Magni and Móði Craters

In the morning, participants will entrust their luggage to the driver, as the remainder of the journey will be completed with only a day pack. The day's adventure begins with a climb from Þórsmörk towards the site of the 2010 volcanic eruption, ascending to the Magni and Móði craters.

The trail is renowned for its spectacular views, offering sweeping vistas of the outlet glaciers originating from Mýrdalsjökull, as well as the rugged beauty of the surrounding mountains. Certain sections of the route, such as the Kattarhryggir ridge and the ascent of Brattafönn, are particularly scenic and provide memorable highlights along the way.

The day promises a truly remarkable experience, culminating with a night spent in a cosy mountain hut situated in the pass. 5-6h walk, ascent 900m.

Day 6 : From Fimmvörðuháls to Skógar

After leaving the mountain hut, the journey continues with a long descent towards Skógar. The path follows the course of the Skógá river, leading from one breathtaking waterfall to the next. As the descent progresses, the black volcanic sand beach and the vast expanse of the Atlantic Ocean gradually come into view, creating a truly incredible spectacle.

Arrival in Skógar is scheduled for the early afternoon, where the highlight is a visit to Skógafoss, the largest and most impressive waterfall in the area. After taking in the awe-inspiring sight, the group will board a bus from Skógar for the return journey to Reykjavík, arriving in the late afternoon. Upon arrival in Reykjavík, participants will be reunited with their luggage. Descent 1100m.

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