Laugavegur Trek - 4 Days (Guided - Huts) – Iceland – FlashpackerConnect Adventure Travel

Experience Iceland’s highlands on this 4-day trekking adventure, renowned for its stunning landscapes. From glaciers and bubbling hot springs to black sand deserts and multi-colored mountains, the Laugavegur Trek offers a journey through some of the most breathtaking scenery in the world.

Tour Details

Departures: June - September
Duration: 4 days / 3 nights
Distance: 55 km (34 mi)
Difficulty: Moderate
Accommodation: Mountain Huts
Also Available: Laugavegur Trek Camping Adventure

Highlights

Start in Landmannalaugar, known for its colorful rhyolite mountains and geothermal hot springs.
Trek through diverse landscapes: glaciers, lava fields, geysers, waterfalls, and black sand deserts.
Stay in remote mountain huts and enjoy meals prepared by the group and guides.
Learn about Iceland’s geology, wildlife, and folklore from expert guides.
Finish in Þórsmörk, a lush valley under the Eyjafjallajökull glacier, perfect for celebrating your journey.

Trip Itinerary

DAY 1: REYKJAVÍK TO LANDMANNALAUGAR – BEGINNING THE LAUGAVEGUR TRAIL

Our journey begins with a scenic drive from Reykjavík to Landmannalaugar, a gateway to Iceland's renowned highlands and the starting point of our 4-day trekking adventure. The 3-4 hour drive takes us along the stunning South Coast, offering views of the iconic Hekla volcano, historically known as “The Gateway to Hell” during the Middle Ages due to its frequent eruptions.

Upon reaching Landmannalaugar, we’ll immerse ourselves in the dreamlike landscapes of the Laugavegur trail. The hike starts with a trek across the Laugahraun lava field and Vondugil canyon, where the vibrant rhyolite mountains display an array of colors. Among these natural wonders is Mt. Brennisteinsalda, standing at 855 meters and often called the “rainbow mountain” for its striking hues.

Before settling into our hut for the night, we’ll explore the breathtaking Graenagil gorge, a vibrant green canyon. For those feeling adventurous, there may be an opportunity to climb the Bláhnúkur volcano for spectacular views of the surrounding landscapes.

In the evening, we’ll gather for a hearty dinner, share stories, and soak in the serene beauty of the Icelandic wilderness.

Hiking Distance: 8 km (4.9 mi)
Hiking Time: 4 hours
Elevation Gain: 470 m (1,540 ft)

Highlights

Landmannalaugar’s unique rhyolite landscapes
Mt. Brennisteinsalda (“Rainbow Mountain”)
Graenagil Gorge
Scenic drive with views of Hekla volcano

Included

Scenic drive from Reykjavík
Lunch, refreshments, and dinner
Hut accommodation at Landmannalaugar

DAY 2: LANDMANNALAUGAR TO HRAFNTINNUSKER TO ÁLFTAVATN

Fuel up with a hearty breakfast as we prepare for the second leg of our trekking adventure. Today’s journey takes us deeper into Iceland’s extraordinary highlands, unveiling diverse and awe-inspiring landscapes.

Our first highlight is Hrafntinnusker, a mesmerizing black obsidian desert. Along the way, we’ll encounter Stórihver, a geothermal hot spring that offers a glimpse into the volcanic forces shaping this land.

Next, we’ll traverse the colorful Reykjafjöll rhyolite mountains and the striking Jökultungur area, where geothermal activity has painted the gullies in vibrant shades of yellow, red, and burnt orange. These hues stand in stark contrast to the pale sand-toned peaks nearby, creating a vivid tapestry of colors. At the summit of Jökultungur, we’ll pause to take in panoramic views of the Fjallabak area and Álftavatn Lake, the shimmering oasis near tonight’s hut.

Reaching our hut requires crossing a river on foot—a thrilling and memorable experience, particularly for those new to this type of adventure. After a fulfilling day of hiking, we’ll unwind with a delicious dinner and enjoy the serene beauty of our surroundings.

Hiking Distance: 24 km (14.9 mi)
Hiking Time: 7-8 hours
Elevation Gain: 900 m (2,952 ft)

Highlights

Hrafntinnusker’s obsidian desert
Stórihver hot spring
Reykjafjöll rhyolite mountains
Vibrant geothermal colors of Jökultungur
Spectacular views over Fjallabak and Álftavatn Lake
River crossing experience

Included

Breakfast, lunch, refreshments, and dinner
Hut accommodation at Álftavatn Lake

DAY 3: ÁLFTAVATN TO EMSTRUR – BLACK DESERTS AND VOLCANIC VIEWS

After a restful night and a nourishing breakfast, we’ll embark on another thrilling day of trekking through Iceland's captivating highlands.

The journey begins with a stream crossing before we make our way onto the vast Mælifellssandur black sand desert, a striking landscape framed by volcanic peaks. Along the route, we’ll pass the impressive Stórasúla and Hattafell volcanoes, their stark profiles standing out against the dark sands.

With good weather, we’ll enjoy unforgettable views of Iceland’s infamous twin glacier volcanoes, Eyjafjallajökull and Mýrdalsjökull. These giants have left a lasting mark on Iceland’s history and geology—Eyjafjallajökull’s 2010 eruption sent ash plumes 30,000 feet into the sky, while Mýrdalsjökull conceals the restless Katla volcano, one of Iceland’s most feared natural forces.

As we approach Botnar, a vibrant green oasis amidst the desert landscape, we’ll marvel at the Markarfljótsgljúfur canyon, a 200-meter-deep gorge carved by glacial rivers over millennia. Tonight, we’ll settle into our mountain hut in this spectacular area, enjoying a well-deserved dinner and the dramatic scenery around us.

Hiking Distance: 15 km (9.5 mi)
Hiking Time: 6-7 hours
Elevation Change: Descent of 40 m (130 ft)

Highlights

Crossing the Mælifellssandur black sand desert
Stórasúla and Hattafell volcanoes
Views of Eyjafjallajökull and Mýrdalsjökull glaciers
Markarfljótsgljúfur canyon
Botnar, a lush oasis amid the desert

Included

Breakfast, lunch, refreshments, and dinner
Hut accommodation at Emstrur

DAY 4: EMSTRUR TO ÞÓRSMÖRK TO REYKJAVÍK:

After sharing our final breakfast, we’ll set out on the last leg of our journey, leaving the Emstrur area behind as we make our way toward the iconic Þórsmörk valley.

The trail takes us through the Almenningar gorge, offering magnificent glacier views and passing the striking Mount Einhyrningur, also known as "The Unicorn Mountain." As we approach Þórsmörk, the landscape begins to transform. Sparse trees gradually give way to the lush and dense birch forests that define this stunning valley. Upon reaching Þórsmörk, we’ll celebrate the completion of the legendary Laugavegur Trail, surrounded by the serene beauty of this unique highland oasis.

On the way back to Reykjavík, we’ll stop for a glimpse of the majestic Seljalandsfoss waterfall, a fitting final highlight of our adventure.

We’ll arrive back in Reykjavík around 9:30 PM, with drop-off at the BSI bus terminal, marking the end of an unforgettable journey through Iceland’s highlands.

Hiking Distance: 15 km (9.5 mi)
Hiking Time: 6-7 hours
Elevation Change: Descent of 300 m (985 ft)

Highlights

Almenningar gorge
Mount Einhyrningur (Unicorn Mountain)
The birch forests of Þórsmörk
Completion of the Laugavegur Trail
Seljalandsfoss waterfall

Included

Breakfast and lunch
Scenic drive back to Reykjavík

Additional Information:

Accommodation during the trek is in mountain huts, offering a rustic and comfortable experience in the Icelandic wilderness. For those seeking an even closer connection to nature, this tour can also be arranged with tent accommodation upon request. Meals are prepared by your guide, but participants are encouraged to lend a hand, creating a collaborative and friendly atmosphere. You’ll share this adventure with travelers from around the globe, forming a vibrant and supportive team as you explore the stunning landscapes of Iceland.

PICK-UP TIMES AND LOCATIONS:

Reykjavík Pick-Up (Between 7:00 – 7:30 AM):

Reykjavík City Hall (Ráðhúsið) on Vonarstræti
Hallgrímskirkja Church
Reykjavík Campsite

Pick-Up Outside Reykjavík:

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

Please note that it may take up to 30 minutes before the bus departs from each location.

Additional Trip Info

Transportation To/From the Trail
Guiding Service
Experienced Trekking Guide
Accommodation in Huts
Meals
Luggage Transport from camp to camp
Small Group Experience
Tents (2-3 persons)
Insulated mattress

Tips
Travel Insurance - We recommend World Nomads, or Global Rescue
Showers are not included in the price but can be purchased at all huts but Hrafntinnusker (500 ISK).

Hiking boots - good sturdy boots with sufficient ankle support, robust sole and waterproof
Thermal underwear (long sleeve top and bottom) made of wool or synthetics (not cotton)
Wool or fleece thermal mid layer
Hiking pants (we don't recommend cottons as they take long to dry if wet)
Hiking socks made of wool or synthetic (at least 2-3 pairs)
Waterproof and breathable (fabric such as Gore-Tex or similar) both pants and jacket (preferably with a hood)
Gloves and mittens - wool or synthetic (waterproof over gloves/mitts recommended)
Warm hat and/or balaclava
HEALTH SUPPLIES AND PRESCRIPTION MEDICINE IF NEEDED
Day backpack about 25-40 L
Travel sack for your baggage that is transported between huts. (Suitcases are not recommended, we recommend a waterproof duffel bag)
River crossing shoes -for example quick drying trail runners, sandals (with straps) or neoprene shoes
Sleeping bag and travel pillow
Towel
Toothbrush and personal toiletries
Sunglasses/sunscreen
1-2 L Water bottle
Hiking poles
Gaiters
Penknife
Camera, batteries & memory card
Book
Headlamp for trips in late season (after August 10th)
Earplugs
Money for the showers (500 kr in coins)
Power bank / portable charging device