Laugavegur TREK, SOUTH COAST & GLACIER HIKE: 5-DAY TOUR (HUTS)

Your day begins with an early morning departure from Reykjavík, followed by a scenic 3 to 4-hour drive to Landmannalaugar. Along the way, you'll enjoy views of the South Coast before heading into the Highlands, passing by Iceland’s infamous volcano, Hekla. 

The Laugavegur Trail starts in the stunning Landmannalaugar area. Before setting off on the full trek, you’ll spend the first day warming up with a scenic loop hike. This route takes you through the Laugahraun lava field, the colorful Grænagil gorge, and the striking Bláhnjúkur volcano. It’s a gentle introduction to the trail and its wild beauty. 

You’ll spend the night at Landmannalaugar. In the evening, enjoy a tasty dinner, connect with fellow hikers, and unwind in the peaceful surroundings of Icelandic nature. 

Distance: 8 km / 4.9 mi. Hiking Time: 4 hours. Ascent: 470 m / 1540 ft. 

Start the day by making your way through the Laugahraun lava field. You’ll pass the vividly colored slopes of Brennisteinsalda and head toward the steaming rhyolite mountains of Reykjafjöll. The trail leads you up through narrow gorges, past the bubbling Stórihver hot springs, and along striking yellow ridgelines. Eventually, the landscape opens up into the dark, shimmering expanse of the Hrafntinnusker obsidian desert—an excellent spot to stop and enjoy lunch. 

After Hrafntinnusker, the path descends into the vibrant gullies of Jökultungur. Heat from below has formed hot springs and mud pools. You’ll see hillsides painted in red and yellow by the minerals. From the top, you’ll be rewarded with sweeping views over the Fjallabak region. If the weather is clear, you might catch sight of the Mýrdalsjökull, Eyjafjallajökull, and Tindfjallajökull glaciers in the distance. 

To reach your accommodation near Álftavatn lake, you’ll cross a shallow river—a thrilling yet safe part of the adventure. The day ends with a warm meal and time to unwind by the peaceful lakeside, surrounded by the stillness of the highlands. 

Distance: 24 km / 14.9 mi. Hiking Time: 7-8 hours. Ascent: 900 m / 2950 ft.

After breakfast, you’ll continue your trek into new and striking landscapes. The day begins with another exciting river crossing. Then, your group will move towards the vast black sands of Mælifellssandur desert. You’ll pass the impressive volcanic peaks of Stórasúla and Hattafell, and observe their vivid green slopes contrasting against the dark, barren surroundings. 

If the weather is kind, you’ll enjoy sweeping views of the famous Eyjafjallajökull and Mýrdalsjökull glaciers. Eyjafjallajökull halted air traffic in 2010 with its eruption, while Mýrdalsjökull conceals the active Katla volcano beneath its icy surface. 

Then, you’ll discover the awe-inspiring Markarfljótsgljúfur canyon. This deep, narrow gorge carved by glacial waters is one of the most dramatic sights along the trail. In the evening, you’ll reach the campsite at Botnar. After dinner, enjoy a well-earned rest and take in the calm of the highlands in the soft light of the setting sun.

Distance: 15 km / 9.5 mi. Hiking time: 6-7 hours. Descent: 40 m / 130 ft. 

Day 4 takes you on the final stretch of the Laugavegur Trail. You’ll leave the wild landscapes of Emstrur behind and head toward Þórsmörk. The trail passes through the beautiful Almenningar gorge, with the sharp peak of Mount Einhyrningur (Unicorn Mountain) standing tall in the distance. On clear days, you’ll see glaciers like Eyjafjallajökull and Mýrdalsjökull shimmering in the sun. 

Approaching Þórsmörk, the surroundings gradually change. Trees begin to grow thicker, turning into a calm birch forest. The air feels fresh, and you hear birds singing and leaves rustling around you. Soon, you’ll arrive in Þórsmörk—a peaceful green valley surrounded by glaciers and mountains. It’s the perfect place to finish your trek and celebrate what you’ve achieved. 

After the hike, you’ll hop on the Highland Bus and head to Hella. There, a cozy countryside hotel awaits, where you’ll rest up before exploring Iceland’s famous South Coast the next day. 

Distance: 15 km / 9.5 mi. Hiking Time: 6-7 hours. Descent: 300 m / 985 ft.

After a hearty breakfast at the hotel, your group will head out to explore the beauty of Iceland’s South Coast. First stop: Seljalandsfoss Waterfall, where a 60 m (196 ft) curtain of water drops into a green valley. You’ll get the chance to walk behind it for a 360° view. 

Then, your guide will lead you to Skógafoss, one of Iceland’s most iconic waterfalls. Its powerful, wide flow sends up a steady mist, often catching the light to form rainbows. If you're up for the climb, a staircase takes you to the top for sweeping views. Along the way, you’ll spot rock formations that local legends say were trolls caught by the morning sun. 

Next, you’ll visit Reynisfjara, the famous black sand beach. With its towering basalt columns, crashing waves, and Reynisdrangar sea stacks, it’s one of the country’s most photographed spots. 

The last adventure of the day takes you to Sólheimajökull glacier, an outlet of the larger Mýrdalsjökull ice cap. At the base camp, your expert guide will gear you up and lead you across the ice. 

After the glacier walk, you’ll head back to Reykjavík. The journey ends with a drop-off at a designated 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 drinks. 

Pick up

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.  

Drop off

After the South Coast and glacier hike tour on day 5, you will be dropped off at your accommodation in Reykjavik at approximately 7:00–8:00 p.m.

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.