Discover the best of Nordic winter in Iceland and Norway!

About Tour

Spend a week in the remote and uninhabited Icelandic Highlands. Complete the iconic Laugavegur and Fimmvörðuháls Trail, see the wonders of the South Coast, hike on a glacier, and explore the Golden Circle! This 8-day tour brings you a full Icelandic trekking experience, excellent for anyone looking for a moderately challenging and rewarding journey.

Highlights

  • Iconic Laugavegur Trail
  • Geothermal landscapes of Landmannalaugar
  • Obsidian lava fields at Hrafntinnusker
  • Serene Álftavatn lake and valleys
  • Black sand deserts in Emstrur
  • Reynisfjara beach
  • Lush Þórsmörk valley with birch forests
  • Volcanic Fimmvörðuháls Pass
  • Craters from the 2010 eruption
  • Seljalandsfoss & Skogafoss falls
  • Golden Circle attractions
  • A visit to natural hot springs
  • Secret Lagoon natural pool

Included

  • Mountain hut accommodation (Days 1–5)
  • Hotel accommodation (Days 6–7)
  • All meals from lunch on Day 1 to lunch on Day 6; Breakfast on Days 7-8
  • Guided glacier hike with safety equipment
  • Golden Circle tour
  • Entry to the Secret Lagoon
  • Free bus Wi-Fi
  • Transport to/from the trek
  • Luggage transfers
  • English-speaking trekking guide

What to bring

  • Thermal underwear
  • Waterproof layers
  • Warm hat & gloves
  • Sleeping bag and travel pillow
  • Sunglasses
  • Travel sack for your baggage that is transported between huts/campsites
  • Day backpack, 25-40 L
  • River crossing shoes (old sneakers or similar for fording rivers)
  • 1–2-liter water bottle

Tour Snapshot

Availability June-Sept
Duration 8 day
Departs From Reykjavik
Difficulty Moderate
Minimum age 15 years
Ratio 1:16 Guide to client ratio
Accommodation Included
Meet on Location No
Pick Up Yes

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Itinerary

This incredible 8-day tour takes you into the wild in comfort. Spend 6 days trekking the iconic Laugavegur Trail. See vast obsidian deserts, colorful mountains, and sleep in cozy mountain huts. The trail ends in the lush valley of Thor, where you’ll spend a whole day walking to the Fimmvörðuháls Pass. 

Your group will leave the deserts behind on the seventh day and venture into the South Coast. You’ll see cascading waterfalls, walk on a glacier, and stay in a comfortable hotel. The 8-day tour ends with a drive through the Golden Circle, where you visit iconic landmarks like Thingvellir, Gullfoss, and the Geyser Geothermal Area.

Your adventure begins early in the morning with a pick-up in Reykjavik. You’ll head east on a scenic drive of about 3 to 4 hours. On the way, you’ll see the South Coast and pass Hekla—one of Iceland’s most famous volcanoes.  

The Laugavegur Trail starts in Landmannalaugar, a stunning geothermal area in the Highlands. Before the full hike begins, you’ll take a warm-up walk through some of the area’s highlights. You’ll cross the dark lava fields of Laugahraun, walk through the colorful Grænagil canyon, and pass the blue peak of Bláhnjúkur. It’s a great way to ease into the journey and enjoy the dramatic scenery.  

You’ll spend your first night in Landmannalaugar. After a warm dinner, there’s time to relax, enjoy the quiet of the Highlands, and get to know your fellow travelers. You can end the evening with a soak in the area’s natural geothermal hot spring. 

Distance: 8 km (4.9 mi). Walking time: 4-5 hrs. Ascent: 470 m (1540 ft). 

Day Highlights
  • Scenic drive from Reykjavik
  • Landmannalaugar
  • Helka stratovolcano
  • Laugahraun lava field
  • Brennisteinsalda volcano
Included
  • Transportation: Highland Bus from Reykjavík to Landmannalaugar
  • Accommodation: Landmannalaugar mountain hut
  • Meals: lunch, refreshments & dinner

The morning unfolds with a walk through the dark lava fields of Laugahraun. Soon, you’ll pass the colorful slopes of Brennisteinsalda and head toward the steaming Reykjafjöll rhyolite mountains. You’ll climb through narrow gorges, see the bubbling Stórihver hot spring, and walk along bright yellow ridges. Suddenly, you’re in a shiny obsidian desert of Hrafntinnusker. This is an exceptional spot to pause and enjoy your lunch. 

After the short break, you’ll descend into Jökultungur—a valley full of steam, mud pools, and bright colors. Hot springs have painted the hills yellow and deep red. At the top, you might get expansive views of the Fjallabak mountains. On clear days, you can spot the Mýrdalsjökull, Eyjafjallajökull, and Tindfjallajökull glaciers in the distance. 

Before reaching the campsite by Álftavatn lake, you’ll safely cross a shallow river. It’s a fun moment that adds thrill to the adventure. In the evening, you’ll have a filling dinner and time to relax by the lake.    

Distance: 24km (14.9 mi). Walking time: 7 - 8 hrs. Ascent: 900 m (2952 ft). 

Day Highlights
  • Hrafntinnusker desert
  • Reykjafjöll mountains
  • Jökultungur summit
  • Álftavatn lake
  • Fjallabak Nature Reserve
Included
  • Accommodation: Áfltavatn mountain hut
  • Meals: breakfast, lunch, dinner & refreshments

After breakfast, you'll head out for another day on the trail. The journey begins with a fun and familiar stream crossing. Then the landscape opens into the vast black sands of Mælifellssandur. 

You’ll pass the volcanoes Stórasúla and Hattafell and see their green mossy slopes stand out against the dark ground. If the weather is clear, you’ll also get views of the Eyjafjallajökull and Mýrdalsjökull glaciers.  

Later in the day, you’ll reach the edge of Markarfljótsgljúfur canyon. It’s deep, dramatic, and carved by a glacial river—a real highlight of the trek. Your day ends at Botnar, a peaceful green oasis in the middle of the black desert. After dinner, you can relax and take in the quiet beauty of the evening. 

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

Day Highlights
  • Mælifellssandur desert
  • Eyjafjallajökull and Mýrdalsjökull
  • Volcano views
  • Markarfljótsgljúfur canyon
Included
  • Accommodation: Emstrur mountain hut
  • Meals: breakfast, lunch, dinner & refreshments
Woman trekking laugavegur trail in Iceland

On day 4, you'll hike the final part of the Laugavegur Trail, leaving behind the wild landscapes of Emstrur. The path takes you through Almenningar gorge, with the tall peak of Mount Einhyrningur—Unicorn Mountain—standing in the distance. Along the way, you'll get amazing views of the Eyjafjallajökull and Mýrdalsjökull glaciers. 

As you get closer to Þórsmörk, the scenery changes. Small trees begin to appear, and soon you're walking through a green birch forest. The birds are singing, and the air feels exceptionally fresh.  

Þórsmörk is a true oasis—lush, peaceful, and surrounded by mountains and glaciers. It’s the perfect place to celebrate finishing one of Iceland’s most famous hikes. 

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

Day Highlights
  • Mount Einhyrningur
  • Views of Icelandic glaciers
  • Þórsmörk valley
Included
  • Meals: breakfast, lunch, dinner & refreshments
  • Accommodation: Langidalur mountain hut

The hike to the Magni and Modi craters carves through a dramatic volcanic landscape. You'll start in the green Þórsmörk valley, surrounded by tall mountains and glaciers. From there, the trail turns into an otherworldly-looking rocky path shaped by the 2010 eruption of Eyjafjallajökull. 

As you walk further, the land appears even more surreal. Fresh lava fields and steaming vents surround you. Magni and Modi, named after the sons of Thor, rise with jagged edges. On a clear day, you'll see a serene panorama of Mýrdalsjökull glacier and the Highlands. 

Remember that the trail can be steep and rocky at times, so sturdy shoes are important.   

Distance: 16 km (10 mi). Walking time: 7 - 8 hrs. Ascent: 800 m (2600 ft). 

Day Highlights
  • Fimmvörðuháls Pass
  • Magni and Móði craters
  • Eyjafjallajökull & Mýrdalsjökull glacier views
  • Lava formations
  • Further Thorsmork exploration
Included
  • Meals: breakfast, lunch, dinner & refreshments
  • Accommodation: Langidalur mountain hut

You'll spend the day exploring Þórsmörk and its beautiful surroundings. If you're feeling active, hike up Mount Útigönguhöfði for fantastic views over the valley and nearby glaciers. If you prefer something easier, walking to Húsadalur is a nice alternative. You can also relax around Langidalur and enjoy the peaceful setting. 

Later in the day, you’ll board the Highland Bus and head to Hella. There, you'll spend the night in a cozy countryside hotel, resting up for the South Coast adventure the next day. 

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

Day Highlights
  • Katla, Eyjafjallajokull (optional)
  • Mt Valahnukur (optional)
  • Exploring Thorsmork (optional)
Included
  • Meals: breakfast, lunch & refreshments
  • Transportation: Highland Bus from Þórsmörk to Reykjavík
Seljalandsfoss waterfall and Glacier hiking on Solheimajokull

Today, your group will explore the wonder-filled South Coast. After breakfast, you’ll be picked up for a scenic drive toward Seljalandsfoss—an elegant 60 m (200 ft) waterfall that drops into a green valley. There, you’ll be able to walk behind its majestic splashing cascade.  

Next, you’ll visit Skógafoss. This powerful waterfall is wide and thunderous, with a path beside it leading to views from above. On the way up, keep an eye out for two rocky shapes—local legends say they’re trolls turned to stone. 

Afterward, you’ll stop at Reynisfjara, a black sand beach known for its towering basalt columns, crashing waves, and sea stacks rising from the ocean. It’s one of Iceland’s most dramatic natural sights—both beautiful and wild. 

The last stop is Sólheimajökull, an outlet glacier flowing from the larger Mýrdalsjökull ice cap. After receiving equipment and getting familiar with the safety instructions, you’ll follow your guide onto the glacier for a thrilling hike. 

In the evening, you’ll return to Reykjavík. Drop-off will be at a designated bus stop or central location in the city. 

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

Day Highlights
  • South Coast
  • Seljalandsfoss waterfall
  • Skogafoss waterfalls
  • Solheimajokull glacier
  • Glacier hiking
Included
  • Breakfast at the hotel in Reykjavik
  • Accommodation in Reykjavik

Your final day begins early with a trip around the famous Golden Circle. First, you’ll visit Þingvellir National Park—a UNESCO World Heritage Site where the world’s oldest parliament was founded. Here, you can walk between two continents, right through the gap between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates.  

Next up is the Geysir Geothermal Area. The ground here bubbles and steams with hot springs and geysers. You’ll see Strokkur, a mighty geyser that shoots water 20 to 40 m (65 to 131 ft) into the air every 5–8 minutes. 

Then you’ll head to Gullfoss, one of Iceland’s most famous waterfalls. It drops in two stages, 32 m (105 ft) into a deep canyon. The sound and spray make it a memorable natural wonder you’ll never forget. 

To end the day, you’ll relax at the Secret Lagoon, a natural hot pool surrounded by bubbling springs and little geysers. It’s the perfect way to unwind after a journey full of adventure.  

After a rejuvenating spa experience, you’ll return to Reykjavík and be dropped off at your chosen stop in the city. 

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

Day Highlights
  • Golden Circle
  • Thingvellir National Park
  • Gullfoss waterfall
  • Geysir Geothermal Area
  • Secret Lagoon natural pool
Included
  • Breakfast at the hotel
  • Secret Lagoon entry

Pick-up times and places in Reykjavik:

Between 7:00 - 7:30 AM

Pick-up times and places outside Reykjavik:

Prepare for your trip through the highlands of Iceland with a handy guide:

Laugavegur Trek Handbook

Please note that the trek itineraries are subject to change due to various uncontrolled circumstances, 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? You can rent waterproof pants and jackets, hiking boots, poles, and sleeping bags at checkout or add them via My Adventures after booking.  

FAQ

Don’t worry, you can always rent sturdy hiking shoes, a waterproof jacket and pants in the booking process or add them to your booking. You can book these items and more under the selection “Extras” in the booking widget when booking your tour on our website.

If you have already booked the tour and wish to add some rental gear to your booking, you can do so at least 24 hours prior to your tour starting by  contacting our customer care.

Please keep in mind that we do not rent gear on location.

We have a maximum of 16 participants on the hut tour. The group size just depends on how many bookings 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.

There are no power outlets in the huts that are accessible to travelers. We encourage bringing your own power bank on the tour (you can pack that in your duffel bag which is transported by the support vehicle). In some cases, you can buy small portable chargers at the huts as well, but they are not always available.

The huts are shared. They have dormitories with single and twin bunk beds so do be prepared to share a room with your fellow travelers.

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, and 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 your booking at least 2 days before the tour starts. If you rent a sleeping bag, please bring a sleeping bag liner. 

Please 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.

No, our guides are not able to provide information on these matters, but our team will be happy to assist you. We kindly ask that you reach out to our customer care team regarding any questions or concerns.

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