Extreme 5-Day Self-Guided Hiking Tour of Laugavegur Trail with Mountain Huts
Description
Summary
Description
Explore the breathtaking Icelandic Highlands on this extreme five-day self-guided hiking tour of the Laugavegur trail. If you're an adventurer seeking the thrill of a self-guided journey through Iceland's world-renowned hiking trail, from Landmannalaugar to Thorsmork valley, this hiking tour is your ideal choice.
Your multi-day hiking expedition in Iceland begins with a convenient bus transfer from Reykjavik to Landmannalaugar, where you'll set off on your wilderness adventure. The last day of your expedition will see you returning to Reykjavik by the same comfortable bus service at the trail's end.
The Laugavegur trail, stretching approximately 35 miles (56 kilometers), is a mesmerizing trek through the Icelandic Highlands. It's renowned for its kaleidoscope of landscapes, presenting you with diverse terrains and ever-changing vistas at every turn.
Begin your hike by exploring the geothermal terrains of Landmannalaugar, a beautiful location in the Fjallabak Nature Reserve. You'll pass through expansive lava fields and colorful rhyolite mountains with green, blue, yellow, and black slopes. The most prominent feature in the area is the towering Brennisteinsalda volcano.
On days two and three, you'll encounter dramatic changes in the surrounding landscapes of the Laugavegur trail as you visit the Alftavatn lake and the Emstrur Valley. While Lake Alftavatn is famous for its abundant birdlife, Emstrur Valley boasts greenery and breathtaking vistas of nearby peaks.
Other stunning views include black volcanic deserts, deep canyons, and the lonely mountain of Maelifell. Mount Maelifell is a remarkable feature of the Highlands because its green slopes contrast the surrounding black sands.
The highlight of your journey is undoubtedly Thorsmork, often called "The Hidden Valley of Thor." you'll hike through on days four and five. This captivating valley nestled between glaciers is a breathtaking wonderland.
As you explore Thorsmork, towering mountains, intricate river systems, black desert sands, volcanic craters, and deep canyons will welcome you. A lush birch forest even graces this unique valley, which makes Thorsmork the most remarkable sight on the Laugavegur trail.
This self-guided hiking tour includes access to mountain hut accommodations for four nights so you can rest well and rejuvenate for every day's adventure. Luggage transfers between the huts are also taken care of, ensuring you can focus on enjoying your trek without carrying heavy loads.
Additionally, you'll receive a comprehensive information pack that includes detailed maps and notes outlining the self-guided walking routes, helping you easily navigate the trail.
Please note that this is a self-guided hiking tour, allowing you to set your pace and fully absorb the awe-inspiring natural wonders along the way. As you traverse the trail, you can pause to admire the striking landscapes or take that perfect photograph without feeling rushed.
Take advantage of this hiking tour of the Laugavegur trail to witness landscapes that range from geothermal wonders to glacial valleys and the unparalleled charm of Thorsmork. Check availability now by choosing a date.
Included
Activities
Daily itinerary
Day 1 - Reykjavik to Landmannalaugar and Hrafntinnusker Mountain Hut
Day one of your multi-day Laugavegur trail hiking tour begins in Reykjavik, where you’ll board a complimentary bus transfer from the terminal to the Landmannalaugar area in the Icelandic Highlands.
The morning bus ride from Reykjavik to Landmannalaugar may take three to four hours, traversing 118 miles (190 kilometers) in South Iceland. En route to the head trail, you’ll pass through diverse landscapes, including farmlands, mountain passes, and small settlements.
Upon arrival at Landmannalugar at noon, you are advised to have lunch before starting your hiking adventure. This will ensure you’re energized to take on the rugged terrain you’ll encounter.
Landmannalaugar is the most common head trail to Laugavegur. It is part of the vast Fjallabak Nature Reserve, known for its hot springs and mountain ridges. Its name translates to the “people’s pools” because of the many geothermal pools in the area.
If the conditions are right, you may even take a short dip in one of the natural hot pools in the area. Just don’t forget to bring your swimwear and towel.
As you progress through the trail, a remarkable sight you’ll encounter is the Laugahraun lava field. This expanse of volcanic landscapes is swarming with green mosses in summer, although some parts remain rugged and black.
Another highlight of the day is the Brennisteinsalda volcano, a towering geological marvel that created Laugahraun hundreds of years ago. Mount Brennisteinsalda is a sight to behold in the Highlands region because of its black and red slopes made of sulfur deposits. Its height reaches 2805 feet (855 meters).
Besides the Brennisteinsalda volcano, there are more rhyolite mountains along the trail, boasting colorful slopes of red, green, blue, yellow, and more.
After five hours of trekking, you’ll arrive at the Hrafntinnusker mountain, where your night accommodation is. The mountain hut is a dormitory-style accommodation where you might share the room with other travelers.
Today’s hike covers roughly 7.5 miles (12 kilometers) of trail, with a maximum ascent of 1540 feet (470 meters). It’s one of the shortest routes for this five-day self-guided trekking.
Day 2 - Hrafntinnusker to Alftavatn Lake
Day two of your self-guided hiking on the Laugavegur trail offers more exciting views and challenges. Your main destination is the peaceful Lake Alftavatn, where you can also find your mountain hut accommodation for the night.
Before beginning your trek, you can first enjoy your breakfast, along with preparing your lunch and snacks for the day. Some of the mountain huts have electricity and hot water, so you should take advantage of these amenities.
Once ready, you'll start facing the day's 7.5-mile (12-kilometer) trail, with a maximum descent of 1610 feet (490 meters). This is roughly the same distance as your previous hike.
Departing from the Hrafntinnusker mountain hut, you'll gradually descend through the snow-covered expanses of the Reykjafjoll mountains. Here, breathtaking vistas of the surrounding valleys and nature reserves dominate the horizons, welcoming you with their natural splendor.
The trail continues into the fertile embrace of the Jokultungur valley, a grazing area filled with grasses, mosses, and occasional shrubs. Here, you can pause for a well-deserved break to catch your breath and soak in the tranquil surroundings.
Besides the lush surroundings, Jokultungur also features steaming hot springs and mud pools. Although this area in the Highlands may be less renowned than other trail highlights, its charm is every bit as captivating.
As you continue hiking, you'll leave the greenery behind, taking on a darker, more rugged character. The rest of Jokultungur valley will lead you through ravines, bringing you to the Alftavatn lake.
After around five hours of exciting trekking and sightseeing, your group will finally arrive at the scenic shores of Alftavatn lake. The lake is a sanctuary for nature enthusiasts and birdwatchers because of its fertile waters. Various bird species and waterfowl call this area home during the summer months.
After exploring the lake, you'll join your fellow hikers in the mountain hut. You may prepare and enjoy your own meal before calling it a night.
Day 3 - Alftavatn Lake to Emstrur Valley
Day three of your wild Laugavegur trail journey continues where day two concluded, at the banks of Alftavatn lake. The charming view will help set the tone of your day as it involves one of the longest hikes in your itinerary.
Your destination for the day is Emstrur-Botnar, a farm valley with mountain huts and excellent viewing points of the Highlands region.
After leaving the comforts of Lake Alftavatn, you'll come across Storasula mountain. Although the mountain nestles on equally stunning peaks, Storasula stands out with its striking conical shape and emerald-green surface. Its highest area reaches 2274 feet (693 meters).
Near this magnificent mountain lies the otherworldly beauty of Maelifellssandur, a vast plain of black desert. This volcanic expanse is breathtaking up close, adorned with jet-black sands traversed by glacial streams in various directions.
The highlight of this area stands at the heart of Maelifellssandur, a spectacular mountain locally known as Maelifell. Mount Maelifell is one of the most photogenic features of the Laugavegur trail because of its moss-covered slopes contrasting its black desert surroundings.
Once concealed beneath the mighty Myrdalsjokull glacier, Mount Maelifell now stands in full view, a living testament to the ever-changing landscapes of Iceland's Highlands.
After a day dominated by mostly barren deserts and landscapes, you'll arrive at the tranquil farming valley of Emstrur. The farm used to be a grazing area for sheep by local farmers, but it is now a resting area for hikers and travelers.
Before heading to your mountain hut in Emstrur valley's Botnar area, you'll venture into another beautiful hiking spot at the Markarfljotsgljufur canyon. This geological formation, with depths of 656 feet (200 meters), snakes through the Laugavegur trail. It was formed by a major eruption of the nearby Katla volcano some thousands of years ago and the massive flow of a river.
Today's hike spans 9.5 miles (15 kilometers). Depending on your pace, it may take roughly six to seven hours to reach the mountain hut in Botnar.
Day 4 - Emstrur Valley to Thorsmork Nature Reserve
Prepare for the highlight of your five-day hiking tour on the Laugavegur trail as you embark on day four. This leg of the trek leads you to the lush Thorsmork Nature Reserve, one of the most remarkable areas in the Highlands of Iceland.
Before beginning your day, you can first enjoy the panoramic views from your hut in Emstrur. While admiring the natural beauty of the valley, don't forget to prepare your breakfast and other meals of the day.
Like the previous day, your hike stretches for 9.5 miles (15 kilometers) and may take six to seven hours. However, this can take shorter or longer depending on your pace and the stops you make.
Fortunately, today's trail can be more manageable than the previous days because of the descending altitude of 985 feet (300 meters) and less rugged terrain.
As you head further south, you'll notice the grand presence of the Myrdalsjokull and Eyjafjallajokull glaciers looming in the distance. Myrdalsjokull, Iceland's fourth-largest ice cap, shares the scene with Eyjafjallajokull, a glacier volcano renowned for its notorious 2010 eruption.
In this area, a distinctive mountain called Mount Einhyrningur will capture your attention. It is also known to tourists as the Unicorn Mountain due to its unique shape, with its peaks resembling the mythical unicorn's horn.
Further along the trail, the surrounding landscape transitions into more greenery and lush valleys. Birch trees and shrubs are a notable feature to see here, signaling your arrival at the captivating Thorsmork Nature Reserve.
This remote mountain valley is celebrated for its rich variety of plants and wildlife, hosting nearly 170 plant species thanks to its secluded location.
However, what truly sets Thorsmork apart is its panoramic viewpoint, offering incredible vistas of the Highlands. From this elevated point, your gaze can wander across glaciers, mountains, and plains crisscrossed by glacial rivers.
After a satisfying hike and sightseeing, you'll retire in one of the mountain huts in Thorsmork.
Day 5 - Exploring Thorsmork Valley and Bus Ride to Reykjavik
Today is the last day of your self-guided hiking tour along Iceland’s Laugavegur trail. This is your last chance to take in the remote wilderness of the Highlands before returning to Reykjavik.
You can spend your morning exploring more of the Thorsmork. According to local stories, this valley is deeply intertwined with Norse mythology, a reason why its name translates to “Thor’s valley.” after the god of thunder.
The nature reserve is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, offering a diverse range of hiking trails that cater to all levels of experience. Most of these trails are well-marked and you’ll have the guidance of your information pack with detailed maps and notes.
One of the standout features of Thorsmork is the Valahnukur mountain, which invites adventurers with its dramatic rocky peaks and panoramic views on top. It is also excellent for hikers seeking a challenging yet rewarding trek, with a maximum elevation of 1503 feet (458 meters).
As you ascend this mountain, you'll be treated to breathtaking vistas of the surrounding valleys. At the summit, the best views of the glaciers, rivers, and lush vegetation will welcome you. It’s a sight that you’ll never forget for the years to come.
While soaking in these breathtaking scenes, don’t forget to capture them in photos to commemorate your wild hiking trip on the Laugavegur trail.
Alternatively, you can explore the valley near your mountain hut if you prefer a laid-back or relaxing day. Thorsmork is teeming with vegetation like mosses, shrubs, and birch trees. However, please remember not to step on these plants as they are fragile.
Occasionally, a few species of birds also venture into the area during summer’s nesting season.
Whether you tackle Valahnukur mountain or opt for a more relaxed stroll through the valley, you’ll take the Highlands bus in this area, which will take you back to Reykjavik.
What to bring
Good to know
The mountain huts are heated and have basic amenities like gas stoves, kitchen utensils, and running cold water.
Facilities of the mountain huts are shared, including rooms and bathrooms. The use of a shower includes a minimal fee.
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