From Reykjavík: 4-Day Guided Laugavegur Highlands Trek

Rated one of the 20 best hikes in the world by National Geographic, the famous Laugavegur trek showcases the best of the Icelandic Highlands. Hike the famous Laugavegur trail with our expert guides on this 4 day camping adventure. We'll begin in Landmannalaugar, famous for it's vibrantly coloured mountains and end our trek in the bircch forests of Þórsmörk. Your luggage will be transported for you between camping spots and you'll enjoy more privacy in a tent than the mountain huts.

Tour options

Itinerary

1. 1

   Day 1 — Reykjavík - Landmannalaugar

   • We'll begin our trek at Landmannalaugar, the starting point of the Laugavegur Trail. First we'll explore Laugahraun lava field and Vonugil canyon, admire the breath-taking and vibrant colours of the rhyolite mountains. We'll see the famous and multicoloured Mt. Brennisteinsalda before wandering back to our camping site, not before enjoying Graenagil and climbing Blahnukur, if time allows. Together we will enjoy a delicious dinner while getting to know your group and enjoying a bathe in the Landmannalaugar hot springs. Driving time: 2-3 hours Distance: 8 km (4.9 mi) Walking time: 4 hrs Ascent: 470 m (1540′)
   • A vast, rugged lava field formed during an eruption in 1477. Its twisted black formations contrast beautifully with the surrounding colourful mountains, creating one of Landmannalaugar’s most dramatic landscapes.
   • Often called “the Sulphur Wave,” this multicolored volcano glows with reds, yellows, greens, and blues thanks to geothermal activity and mineral deposits. It’s one of the most photographed peaks on the trail.
   • Known as the Blue Peak, Bláhnjúkur offers sweeping 360° views over Landmannalaugar’s rhyolite mountains, lava fields, and distant glaciers. Its deep blue‑green slopes come from ancient volcanic ash.
   • Landmannalaugar Hot Springs - A natural geothermal oasis where warm streams flow through a lava field. It’s the perfect place to unwind after your first day of hiking, surrounded by colorful mountains and steaming vents.

   Camping at Landmannalaugar Campsite

2. 2

   Day 2 — Landmannalaugar - Hrafntinnusker - Alftavatn

   • We'll start the day with a nourishing breakfast before we set off hiking to our next location. First, we'll cross Hrafntinnusker black obsidian desert before exploring Reykjafjöll, vibrantly coloured rhyolite mountains. After, we'll reach the peak of Jökultungur, which rewards hikers with incredible views over Fjallabak and Álfavatn lake. We'll make a river crossing my foot, an exhilerating experience! In the evening we will relax, enjoy some well-earned dinner and enjoy the views of the Icelandic Highlands. Distance: 24km (14.9 mi) Walking time: 7-8 hrs Ascent: 900 m (2952′)
   • Reykjafjöll Rhyolite Mountains A stunning mountain range painted in shades of orange, red, yellow, and green. These rhyolite formations are a hallmark of the Highlands and showcase Iceland’s volcanic artistry.
   • Jökultungur Summit - A panoramic ridge offering breathtaking views over black‑sand plains, shimmering lakes, and distant glaciers. The descent reveals dramatic color shifts in the surrounding hillsides.
   • A peaceful highland lake framed by rolling mountains and open skies. Its calm waters reflect the surrounding peaks, making it one of the most serene overnight stops on the trail.
   • A protected wilderness of geothermal valleys, lava fields, rivers, and rhyolite mountains. This remote region is known for its untouched beauty and diverse volcanic landscapes.

   Camping at Alftavatn

3. 3

   Day 3 — Alftavatn - Emstrur

   • After a hearty breakfast, we will set off again towards the volcanos via Mælifellssandur! First, we'll pass Stórasúla and Hattafell volcanoes, where we will get great views of Mýrdalsjökull & Eyjafjallajökull. On our way to Botnar, a beautiful green oasis, we will see Markarfljótsgljúfur, a deep gorge plummeting 200m below, created by glacial water. We'll reward our hard work with a tasty dinner, spending time with our new friends and enjoying the beautiful scenery. Distance: 15km (9.5 mi), walking time: 6-7 hrs, descent: 40 m (130 ft).
   • A vast black‑sand desert shaped by glacial floods and volcanic eruptions. Its stark, moon‑like terrain creates a powerful contrast with the colorful mountains you’ve left behind.
   • Glacier Views of Eyjafjallajökull & Mýrdalsjökull Two of Iceland’s most famous glaciers dominate the horizon—Eyjafjallajökull, known for its 2010 eruption, and Mýrdalsjökull, hiding the mighty Katla volcano beneath its ice.
   • Markarfljótsgljúfur Canyon A dramatic, steep‑walled canyon carved by the Markarfljót River. Its layered cliffs and winding riverbed create one of the most impressive viewpoints of the entire trek.

   Camping at Emstrur

4. 4

   Day 4 — Emstrur - Thórsmörk - Reykjavík

   • After Breakfast, we'll depart Emstrur and head towards Þórsmörk. We'll go through Almenningar gorge close to Mount Einhyrningur where we will have unparalleled views of the glaciers ahead of us. As we enter Þórsmörk, the landscapes will change into dense birch forest and stunning mountainous landscape. You've now completed the Laugavegur trail! Distance: 15km (9.5 mi), walking time: 6-7 hrs, descent: 300 m (985 ft). On our way back to Reykjavík, we'll catch a glimpse of Seljalandsfoss. We will then arrive back into Reykjavík around 21:30. Drop off is at the BSI bus stop in Reykjavík.
   • Mount Einhyrningur Named “The Unicorn” for its distinctive horn‑shaped peak, this mountain stands guard at the entrance to Þórsmörk. Its unique silhouette is a favorite among photographers.
   • Þórsmörk Valley A lush, sheltered valley filled with birch forests, braided rivers, and towering glaciers. Protected by surrounding mountains, Þórsmörk feels like a hidden paradise and marks a spectacular end to the Laugavegur Trail.

What's included

• ✓Accommodation in Highland Huts (if option selected)
• ✓Accommodation in tents (if option selected)
• ✓Roundtrip 4x4 Transportation from Reykjavík, Selfoss, or Hella
• ✓Lunch
• ✓Luggage transport between huts/campsites
• ✓Dinner
• ✓Breakfast

What to expect

• Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
• Not recommended for pregnant travelers
• Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
• Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

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