8 Day Laugavegur Trek Tour

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). 

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). 

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). 

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).

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). 

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). 

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.  

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.  

Pick-up times and places in Reykjavik:

Between 7:00 - 7:30 AM

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

Pick-up times and places outside Reykjavik:

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

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.