7-Day Laugavegur Trek, Glacier Hike & South Coast Tour

Your adventure begins with an early morning drive from Reykjavík toward the Icelandic Highlands. The journey to Landmannalaugar takes approximately 3–4 hours, with scenic views along the South Coast and a glimpse of Hekla, one of Iceland’s best-known volcanoes. 

Upon arrival in Landmannalaugar, the starting point of the Laugavegur Trail, the trek doesn’t begin immediately. Instead, the day is used to ease into the journey with a warm-up hike. This loop takes you through some of the area’s striking features, including winding lava fields, the colorful Grænagil canyon, and the blue-toned slopes of Bláhnjúkur. It’s a relaxed introduction to the dramatic landscapes ahead. 

Your group spends the first night in Landmannalaugar. In the evening, there’s time to enjoy dinner, connect with fellow hikers, and unwind in the trail’s only natural geothermal hot spring. 

Distance: 8 km (4.9 mi). Walking time: 4-5 hrs. Ascent: 470 m (1,540 ft). 

You’ll start the day by crossing the Laugahraun lava field, a rugged landscape shaped by ancient eruptions. From here, the trail winds past the colorful slopes of Brennisteinsalda and continues toward the steaming rhyolite mountains of Reykjafjöll. Climb through narrow gorges, pass the bubbling Stórihver hot spring, and follow ridgelines streaked with vivid yellow hues created by geothermal activity. The scenery then shifts dramatically into the black obsidian desert of Hrafntinnusker, where there’s time to stop and enjoy lunch surrounded by this otherworldly terrain. 

From Hrafntinnusker, the route descends into the gullies of Jökultungur, a geothermal area filled with steaming hot springs and bubbling mud pools. Over time, geothermal forces have colored the landscape in striking shades of yellow and red, standing in contrast to the pale, sand-toned peaks nearby. From the upper slopes of Jökultungur, sweeping views open across the Fjallabak region, with clear-day glimpses of Mýrdalsjökull, Eyjafjallajökull, and Tindfjallajökull glaciers. 

Reaching the campsite near Álftavatn lake involves a river crossing—an exciting and safe experience. The day ends with a hearty dinner and time to unwind, taking in the calm atmosphere and wide-open views around the lake. 

Distance: 24 km (14.9 mi). Walking time: 8 - 9 hrs. Ascent: 900 m (2,952 ft). 

After a hearty breakfast, the day begins with another rewarding stretch. The route starts with a stream crossing—by now a familiar part of the journey—before opening into the wide black sand plains of Mælifellssandur. Along the way, the moss-covered slopes of Stórasúla and Hattafell rise from the dark volcanic terrain, creating a striking contrast against the surrounding landscape. 

On clear days, expansive views unfold toward Eyjafjallajökull and Mýrdalsjökull, two of Iceland’s most iconic glacier-covered volcanoes. Eyjafjallajökull is known for its 2010 eruption that disrupted air travel across Europe, while Mýrdalsjökull conceals the powerful Katla volcano beneath its ice. 

As the trek continues, Markarfljótsgljúfur canyon comes into view—a dramatic gorge around 200 m (656 ft) deep, carved by glacial meltwater over time. The trail eventually leads to Botnar, a surprising green oasis set within the black desert. You’ll conclude the day with dinner and time to relax in the peaceful evening atmosphere. 

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

On day four, the journey continues along the final stretch of the Laugavegur Trail, leaving Emstrur behind and heading toward Þórsmörk. You’ll pass the scenic Almenningar gorge, with the sharp silhouette of Mount Einhyrningur (Unicorn Mountain) rising prominently against the skyline. Along the way, sweeping views open toward the glaciers of Eyjafjallajökull and Mýrdalsjökull. 

As Þórsmörk draws closer, the scenery begins to shift. Sparse vegetation gradually gives way to dense birch forests, a defining feature of this sheltered valley. The air feels fresh, filled with birdsong and the soft movement of leaves. The day ends upon arrival in the green oasis of Þórsmörk, surrounded by mountains and glaciers. You’ve completed the iconic Laugavegur Trail. 

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

Today’s hike takes you along a section of the Fimmvörðuháls Trail toward the Magni and Móði craters. It begins and ends in the green Þórsmörk valley, surrounded by tall mountains and glaciers. The path takes you into a barren, almost surreal landscape shaped by Eyjafjallajökull’s 2010 eruption. Along the way, you’ll walk over black sand plains, sharp lava ridges, and signs of recent volcanic activity, all set against distant glaciers and wide-open skies. 

As you get closer to the craters, the scenery turns into a raw, otherworldly place with fresh lava fields and steaming vents. The craters, named after Thor’s sons in Norse mythology, reveal their rugged edges and surrounding volcanic landscapes. On clear days, you can see far across the Mýrdalsjökull glacier and the Highlands. The trail is moderately challenging, with some steep parts and loose gravel, so sturdy shoes and a basic fitness level are needed. 

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

On your final day, you'll have time to explore Þórsmörk and its beautiful surroundings. If you're up for a challenge, you can hike up Mount Útigönguhöfði. For a gentler activity, enjoy a scenic stroll to Húsadalur valley. You can also relax around Langidalur valley until it’s time to return to the capital. 

In the evening, you’ll board the Highland Bus and head to the town of Hella. Here, you’ll spend the night in a comfortable countryside hotel before traveling to the South Coast the next day. 

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

On the last day, you’ll discover Iceland’s beautiful South Coast. After breakfast at your hotel, you’ll be picked up for a scenic drive to Seljalandsfoss Waterfall. Here, a 60-meter (196-ft) waterfall drops into a green valley, and you can walk behind the falling water for a unique view. 

Next is Skogafoss waterfall, famous for its wide, powerful fall and a hillside trail that offers sweeping views. Along the way, you’ll spot two rock formations that, according to legend, are trolls frozen by the sunrise. 

Then, you’ll visit Reynisfjara, a dramatic black sand beach known for its towering basalt columns, roaring Atlantic waves, and sea stacks like Reynisdrangar. Its wild beauty and strong tides make it both stunning and dangerous. 

The day ends at Solheimajokull glacier, a striking ice field flowing from the larger Mýrdalsjökull glacier. At the base, a guide will give you gear and a safety talk before leading you onto the glacier, sharing fascinating details about its formation and impact on Iceland’s landscape. 

Afterwards, you’ll head back to Reykjavik, where you’ll be dropped off at a central bus stop or another agreed-upon spot. 

*Please note: only breakfast at your accommodation is included on this day. There will be stops along the way where you can buy food and beverages. 

Your day ends in Reykjavik, where you’ll be dropped off at your hotel or a nearby location. 

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

Laugavegur Trek Handbook 

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 outside of Reykjavik: 

8:15 a.m. – Selfoss N1 gas station 

9:00 a.m. – Hella- Bus Terminal 

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

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 & jackets, hiking boots, poles, and sleeping bags at checkout or add them via My Adventures after booking.