4-Day Laugavegur Hiking & Camping Tour from Reykjavik

4-Day Laugavegur Hiking & Camping Tour from Reykjavik
4-Day Laugavegur Hiking & Camping Tour from Reykjavik
4-Day Laugavegur Hiking & Camping Tour from Reykjavik
Likely to sell out soon
Likely to sell out soon
4-Day Laugavegur Hiking & Camping Tour from Reykjavik
4-Day Laugavegur Hiking & Camping Tour from Reykjavik
4-Day Laugavegur Hiking & Camping Tour from Reykjavik
4-Day Laugavegur Hiking & Camping Tour from Reykjavik
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Travel details

Dates
Time
Travelers
1
Pick-up location

Description

Summary

Tour starts
Reykjavík, Iceland
Starting time
At 07:00
Duration
4 days & 3 nights
Ending place
Reykjavík, Iceland
Languages
English
Difficulty
Moderate
Available
July - Aug.
Minimum age
15 years old
3,789 reviews

Description

Hike the whole 34-mile (55-kilometer) Laugavegur Trail in the Icelandic Highlands on this guided trek from Reykjavik, camping in tents along the way while your luggage is driven between campsites.

The trail runs from the geothermal area of Landmannalaugar to the green valley of Thorsmork, through colorful rhyolite mountains, lava fields, glacial rivers, and black sand and obsidian deserts. The group has a maximum of 14 people.

On day 1, you leave Reykjavik early in the morning for a 3- to 4-hour drive along the South Coast and into the Highlands, past Hekla Volcano, to Landmannalaugar. Here, you start with a warm-up loop of about 5 miles (8 kilometers) through Laugahraun Lava Field and Graenagil Gorge and past Blahnjukur Mountain. In the evening, you have dinner at the Landmannalaugar campsite and can soak in the trail's only natural geothermal hot spring.

On day 2, you cross Laugahraun Lava Field, pass the colorful slopes of Brennisteinsalda Volcano and the steaming rhyolite mountains of Reykjafjoll, and continue past the hot springs of Storihver to the obsidian desert of Hrafntinnusker, where you stop for lunch. Then you descend into the geothermal gullies of Jokultungur, with views over the Fjallabak region and, weather permitting, Myrdalsjokull, Eyjafjallajokull, and Tindfjallajokull Glaciers. You wade across a river to reach the campsite by Alftavatn Lake. This is the longest day, at about 15 miles (24 kilometers).

On day 3, you cross a stream and head into the black sand desert of Maelifellssandur, passing the moss-covered volcanoes of Storasula and Hattafell. On clear days, you can see Eyjafjallajokull and Myrdalsjokull Glaciers. Then you see Markarfljotsgljufur Canyon, a gorge 656 feet (200 meters) deep carved by a glacial river, before reaching the campsite at Botnar in Emstrur, a green oasis in the black desert. The day covers about 9.5 miles (15 kilometers).

On day 4, you walk the final 9.5 miles (15 kilometers) from Emstrur through Almenningar Gorge, past Mount Einhyrningur ("Unicorn Mountain"), to the birch forests of Thorsmork Valley. From there, a highland bus takes you back to Reykjavik.

Your guide organizes the meals, and everyone helps prepare them.

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Included

Transportation to and from the trek
English-speaking trekking guide
Accommodation in tents on days 1 to 3, with large assembly tents for meals
All meals from lunch on day one to lunch on day four
Luggage transportation between campsites
Free Wi-Fi on the bus

Activities

Hiking
Sightseeing
Hot Spring Bathing
Walking tours
Food & Drinks
Baggage Service
Iceland's leading travel agency
Traveler's Choice

Attractions

LandmannalaugarLandmannalaugar
​Thorsmork (þórsmörk)​Thorsmork (þórsmörk)
Seljalandsfoss WaterfallSeljalandsfoss Waterfall
HeklaHekla
EyjafjallajokullEyjafjallajokull
Myrdalsjokull GlacierMyrdalsjokull Glacier
Laugavegur Hiking TrailLaugavegur Hiking Trail
FjallabakFjallabak
BláhnjúkurBláhnjúkur
BrennisteinsaldaBrennisteinsalda
MaelifellssandurMaelifellssandur
JokultungurJokultungur
Markarfljótsgljúfur CanyonMarkarfljótsgljúfur Canyon
StorihverStorihver
ReykjafjöllReykjafjöll
ÁlftavatnÁlftavatn
AlmenningarAlmenningar
Hrafntinnusker Mountain PeakHrafntinnusker Mountain Peak
Emstrur-Botnar HutEmstrur-Botnar Hut
StórasúlaStórasúla
HattafellHattafell
EinhyrningurEinhyrningur
Graenagil CanyonGraenagil Canyon
Vondugil CanyonVondugil Canyon

Daily itinerary

Day 1

Day 1 - Reykjavik to Landmannalaugar

Start your adventure in the Icelandic Highlands with a journey from Reykjavik and a fun hike. Day one of this incredible four-day adventure begins at a designated meeting point in Reykjavik. Alternatively, you can organize pick-up from another destination on the South Coast. The drive into the Highlands takes about three to four hours, depending on road and traffic conditions. The journey takes a scenic route along the South Coast. You can enjoy close-up views of the impressive Hekla volcano and the vast expanse of the Atlantic Ocean as you get to know the other people joining the tour. The hike starts at Landmannalaugar, a rugged area renowned for its striking rhyolite mountains and soothing hot springs. Upon arrival, hand over your heavy luggage to the porters and take some time to enjoy lunch and prepare for the hike. Today's journey covers approximately 5 miles (8 kilometers), with an elevation gain of about 1,540 feet (470 meters). Expect to spend around four hours on the trail, exploring diverse natural landscapes along the way. You'll travel through the Laugahraun lava field, marvel at the rugged beauty of the Vondugil canyon, and admire the colorful Brennisteinsalda mountain. You'll also go through the picturesque Graenagil gorge and pass by the bubbling Stori Hver hot spring. If time permits and everyone is up for it, there's an opportunity to climb the Blahnukur volcano for breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding scenery. As evening approaches, your group will arrive at the campsite, where tents and sleeping mattresses are provided for your comfort. The guide will prepare dinner (but lending a hand will speed up the process). Gather in the dining tent to enjoy a warm meal and chat with your fellow hikers. After dinner, take some time to unwind. Chat with your companions, soak in the views of the campsite, or look over photos you've captured during the day's excursion. Then, settle into your sleeping area for a restful night, ready to tackle the adventures that lie ahead on the Laugavegur Trail.

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Day 2

Day 2 - Landmannalaugar to Alftavatn Lake

Day two of your Laugavegur Trail trek takes you from the Landmannalaugar geothermal area to the picturesque Alftavatn lake. As day two dawns, you'll wake up after a refreshing night's sleep in your tent, ready for another day of adventure. Join the group for breakfast at the campsite, ensuring you fuel up for the journey ahead. Today's trek covers a much longer distance of 15 miles (about 24 kilometers) and has an ascent gain of nearly 3,000 feet (approximately 900 meters), so it's crucial to start with a hearty breakfast to sustain your energy levels. You can expect to spend approximately 7 to 8 hours on the trail today, including a stop for lunch. The route begins by ascending towards the majestic Hrafntinnusker mountain, passing through a striking black obsidian desert. Marvel at the vibrant hues of the Reykjafjoll rhyolite mountains and the towering Jokultungur mountain. These areas are known for their geothermal activity. From the summit of Mount Jokultungur, take in sweeping vistas of the expansive Fjallabak nature reserve below. The area is rich in rhyolite and obsidian, giving the earth unusual colors. The ground appears green, blue, pink, red, and yellow, with meandering rivers and towering mountains. From the Jokultungur mountain, you should also be able to see the serene Alftavatn lake. This lake is your final destination for the day, but before reaching the campsite, you'll need to descend the mountain and brace yourself for an exhilarating river crossing. Crossing a river on foot can be exciting, particularly for travelers not used to the Icelandic wilderness. Always follow your guide's instructions. Change into your quick-drying shoes (you don't want to soak your hiking boots!) and get ready to cross. From here, it's a short walk to the lakeside campsite. This gorgeous area is a highlight of the trip for many. You'll set up camp and work with the group and guide to prepare another dinner. After enjoying a satisfying meal, take some time to clean up before settling in for a restful night, rejuvenating yourself for the adventures on day three of the Laugavegur Trail.

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Day 3

Day 3 - Alftavatn Lake to Emstrur

Day three of your exciting trekking tour on the Laugavegur Trail takes you through spectacular volcanic scenery. As the morning begins, you'll wake up in your tent and join the group for a satisfying breakfast in the dining tent. When everyone has eaten, you'll tidy up as a group and prepare for another day of hiking. Today's route spans 9.5 miles (15 kilometers), with an overall elevation descent of about 130 feet (40 meters). It'll take about six to seven hours, including a break for lunch. Say goodbye to the serene Alftavatn lake — ensure you snap a few more photos to capture it in the morning light. The day's route starts by taking you through another stream. From here, your guide will lead you into a stunning volcanic region, where you'll encounter Maelifellssandur, a black-sand desert surrounding the Maelifell volcano. Continuing your hike, the group will also see the striking Storasula and Hattafell volcanoes. Their lush green slopes starkly contrast to the volcanic plains' black sands. As you journey towards the Emstrur area, watch for the iconic glacier-capped volcanoes, Myrdalsjokull and Eyjafjallajokull. These volcanoes hold historical significance, with Eyjafjallajokull famously erupting in 2010, causing a massive ash cloud that disrupted European air travel for an extended period. Myrdalsjokull sits atop the Katla volcano, one of Iceland's most active volcanoes. On average, it erupts every 50 years or so, but its latest eruption was in 1918, so it's long overdue. By now, you'll be approaching your final destination for the day, the Botnar area. It stands as a green oasis in the middle of the volcanic area. Soak in the breathtaking sights of the Markarfljotsgljufur canyon, which stretches 656 feet (about 200 meters) below. Your campsite for the final night of your trek is close to this canyon. Take a moment to appreciate the incredible views before setting up camp for the night. As you've done previously, come together with the group to prepare and enjoy a communal dinner, then clean up before retiring to your tents for a well-deserved rest. Ensure you get a good night's sleep to recharge before embarking on the final day of hiking tomorrow.

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Day 4

Day 4 - Emstrur to Thorsmork & Return to Reykjavik

The final day of this four-day excursion takes you into the heart of the Thorsmork valley before your return to Reykjavik. Wake up as usual in your tent and enjoy a final group breakfast. Pack up your things for the last time and get ready to go. Today's route covers about 9.5 miles (15 kilometers) again, but this time descends about 985 feet (300 meters). It should take about six to seven hours once you set off from the camp. Follow your guide out of the campsite in the Emstrur area and venture through the Almenningar gorge, where you'll continue to enjoy excellent views of the surrounding glaciers. Along the way, catch sight of the uniquely shaped Einhyrningur mountain, also known as "Unicorn Mountain." As you continue along the trail, you'll arrive in the Thorsmork valley, aptly named the "Valley of Thor" in English, after the Norse god of thunder. The valley is one of Iceland's best-loved hiking areas, and you'll quickly understand why. It boasts stunning natural beauty, with rivers, jagged mountain peaks, volcanic plains, and vibrant green mosses in every direction. As you reach the end point of the Laugavegur trail in the Thorsmork valley, take a moment to savor the pride and accomplishment of completing this unforgettable journey. It's sure to be a rewarding few days. At the end of the hike, the group will board a vehicle that will transport you back to Reykjavik, but the adventure isn't over yet. Along the way, your group will stop at the breathtaking Seljalandsfoss waterfall, one of Iceland's best-loved natural wonders. This imposing waterfall plummets 200 feet (60 meters) and offers a mesmerizing sight — a photo stop here is the perfect way to end your trip. After a busy few days, the group will arrive in Reykjavik in the evening, accompanied by new friends and shared memories that will last a lifetime. Reflect on the incredible experiences shared over the past four days as you bid farewell to Iceland's enchanting landscapes.

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Pick-up information

Starting time

This tour has flexible departure times. See the drop-down for all departures. Free pick-up is included with this tour.

Pick-up location

This tour includes hotel pickup. Use the drop-down to view pickup locations. You can also add your pick-up location later.

How it works

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Secure your spot
Secure your spot instantly on Iceland’s most trusted travel marketplace. As soon as you reserve, we lock in your place to help you make the most of your trip. You’ll get the best price and a secure payment system that protects your information.
Receive instant confirmation
You’ll get your e-ticket and a detailed summary immediately after booking, including meeting points and schedules. Enjoy peace of mind and get exactly what you booked, or a money-back guarantee. No surprises, no hidden fees.
Get access to the VIP Club
Booking with us gives you access to the Guide to Iceland VIP Club, where you’ll enjoy priority service, special perks, and exclusive discounts for amazing savings on your trip at Iceland’s top restaurants, shops, and local favorites.
Explore with confidence
From the moment you arrive to the moment you leave, we’re here to take care of you. Whatever you need, whenever you need it, we’re just seconds away, 24/7, ready to help you make the most of your time in Iceland.

What to bring

Sturdy, waterproof hiking boots with good ankle support
Thermal wool or synthetic underwear (long-sleeved top and bottoms) (avoid cotton)
Wool or fleece thermal mid layer
Hiking pants (avoid cotton)
At least two or three pairs of wool or synthetic hiking socks
Breathable waterproof jacket and pants
Wool or synthetic gloves or mittens
Warm hat or balaclava
Day backpack (about 25–40 liters recommended) 
Travel pack for your baggage to be transported between huts (suitcases are not recommended — a waterproof duffel bag would be best)
River-crossing shoes (e.g. quick-drying trail runners, sandals with straps, or Neoprene shoes)
Sleeping bag and travel pillow
Swimsuit and towel
Toothbrush and personal toiletries
Sunglasses
1–2 liter water bottle or hydration pack
Hiking poles
Gaiters
Headlamp for trips in late season (after August 10)
Portable charging device or power bank

Good to know

The tour lasts 4 days and runs in July and August.

The trek is rated moderate, and the minimum age is 15.

The maximum group size is 14.

Pickup in Reykjavik is between 7:00 and 7:30 a.m. at Reykjavik City Hall, Hallgrimskirkja Church, or Reykjavik Campsite. You can also join at 8:15 a.m. at the N1 gas station in Selfoss or at 9:00 a.m. at the bus stop in Hella.

Daily distances are about 5 miles (8 kilometers) on day 1, 15 miles (24 kilometers) on day 2, and 9.5 miles (15 kilometers) on days 3 and 4.

You only carry a day backpack. Your main luggage, one piece of up to 44 pounds (20 kilograms), is transported between campsites.

A waterproof duffel bag is better than a suitcase, as the support vehicle crosses rivers.

Extra luggage can be stored at the BSI Bus Terminal in Reykjavik, at your own expense.

Solo travelers can rent a single tent, at your own expense, when booking or up to 2 days before the tour.

Vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and other special diets are available for a supplement, at your own expense.

Showers at the campsites cost 1,100 ISK, paid at the warden's hut.

There is very little electricity on the trail, so bring a power bank.

Waterproof jackets and pants, hiking boots, trekking poles, and sleeping bags can be rented, at your own expense.

The itinerary may change because of weather, group ability, or safety.

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