Make the most of your 7 days in Iceland by combining the Laugavegur Trek, Fimmvörðuháls Pass, glacier hike, and South Coast highlights. Follow paths that lead through a mix of rugged terrain, from barren lava fields to vibrant green valleys and colorful mountains. Travel to the South Coast and explore Seljalandsfoss and Skogafoss falls, and hike on majestic Solheimajokull Glacier.
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This is one of the most nature-packed seven-day adventures in Iceland. Over six days, trek the legendary Laugavegur Trail and cross part of the dramatic Fimmvörðuháls Pass. Cover approximately 55 km (34 mi) through the heart of the Icelandic Highlands. The route leads past geothermal areas, colorful rhyolite mountains, glaciers, and black sand deserts, ending in Þórsmörk—the Valley of Thor.
Evenings are spent in traditional mountain huts along the trail. The dormitory-style huts provide comfort in remote settings, with shared sleeping areas that create a friendly, communal atmosphere.
On the seventh day, explore Iceland’s South Coast. Visit iconic waterfalls like Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss, vast glaciers, and black sand beaches. Experience a guided glacier hike on Sólheimajökull ice cap. All of this, and more, comes together in one unforgettable week. Curious how it all fits? Explore the full itinerary below.
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:
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.
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.
