Laugavegur Trek & Iceland Highlights
13 Days
ICELAND HIGHLIGHTS
- 6 days of backcountry trekking through the sweeping Icelandic landscapes
- Sleep in backcountry huts, deep in Iceland’s Highlands
- Check out the massive icebergs at the Glacier Lagoon, Jökulsárlón
- Vast and overwhelmingly powerful Gullfoss waterfall, 105 ft.
- 300 ft. deep and over 1.25 miles long, jagged and deep canyon system: Fjaðrárgljúfur
- An active volcanic playground where the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates meet: Thingvellir National Park
- Strokkur Geysir, a magnificently blue and active volcanic vent
- Towering veil of falling water at Skógafoss, 197 ft.
- Walk into a gigantic cave accessed by circumnavigating the 200 foot Seljalandsfoss waterfall
- Landmannalaugar: nature reserve in the Icelandic Highlands. Situated at the edge of Laugahraun lava field, which was formed in an eruption around the year 1477
- Volcanic, thermally heated swimming pools at Blue Lagoon (optional)
Laugavegur Trek & Iceland Highlights
13 Days
Dates
- July, 2022
Pricing
- Tour Pricing: $6,795
Laugavegur Trek & Iceland Highlights
13 Days
DAY 1: WELCOME TO REYKJAVIK, ICELAND
A Volant representative will pick you up at the airport and transfer you to your hotel (1h). Take a relaxing walk through the streets of downtown Reykjavik, or, depending on your arrival time, you could join a free downtown walking tour at 1pm (optional). Take in the shops, the culture, and the historic harbor. Enjoy a welcome dinner and a leisurely evening. (D - welcome dinner)
DAY 2: REYKJAVIK - LANDMANNALAUGAR - HRAFNTINNUSKER
Today we'll begin the Laugavegar Trek. Volant Travel has teamed up with the local company, Trek Iceland, to provide a professional and safe, Icelandic backcountry experience.
The tour starts by the Reykjavík tourist info at Reykjavik's City Hall (Ráðhúsið) by Tjörnin pond at 7.00 a.m. where you meet your guide. It's located in downtown Reykjavik and within walking distance from most hotels, hostels and guesthouses in central Reykjavik. We also offer pick up at selected locations around Reykjavik (see other pick up locations in tour description). After introductions, we board the scheduled bus that takes us to Landmannalaugar. The drive takes about 3-4 hours, on the way we travel along the south coast and then turn inland and pass Iceland's most active volcano, Hekla.
Our hike starts in Landmannalaugar as we walk through this geothermal wonderland and look at the colorful mountains and steaming hot springs. The trail takes us through the rough lava field, Laugahraun. From there we move to the slopes of Brennisteinsalda, which is known worldwide for its incredible spectrums of colors and photogenic looks. We walk by the beautiful hot spring Storihver before crossing into the obsidian desert by Hrafntinnusker. Storihver is one of the very few green grounds we will encounter on this day. We spend the night in the hut in Hrafntinnusker, one of the most remote huts in Iceland, surrounded by Hrafntinna or Obsidian.
(B, L, r, D). Distance: 12 km (7.5 mi). Walking time: 4-5 hrs. Ascent: 470 m (1540 ').
DAY 3: HRAFNTINNUSKER - ALFTAVATN (WHOOPER SWAN LAKE)
After a communal breakfast in the hut, we head out again and walk along the Reykjafjoll mountains and then descend into the Jokultungur area. The geothermal activity has turned these gullies yellow and red. We will leave the colorful rhyolite mountains and enter into an area with dark palagonite mountains and a breathtaking glacier view. If the visibility is good we hike up to Mt. Haskerdingur were the view greets you with countless glaciers, mountains and volcanoes. During the next steps, the landscape will be a lot greener and you might notice a considerable increase in vegetation. From the top of Jokultungur, there is a great view over the Fjallabak area and lake Alftavatn which is our next overnight stop. The trail down Jokulstungur is rather steep but once you are down you have landed in a fertile paradise on the banks of the river Grashagakvisl. Before reaching Alftavatn we cross an unbridged stream on foot. We spend the night in the hut by the lake.
(B, L, r, D). Distance: 12 km (7.5 mi). Walking time: 4-5 hrs. Descent: 490 m (1610 ').
DAY 4: ALFTAVATN - EMSTRUR
We start the day with another refreshing stream crossing as we make our way past the green volcano Stórasúla and into the black desert of Maelifellssandur. On our way, we will see Hattafell, a volcano with a strange flat top. We walk through this black glacial desert and into Emstrur where there is a chance to enjoy a view of Eyjafjallajokull and Myrdalsjokull glaciers. Emstrur is a lush region where farmers used to graze their sheep during the summertime. Just before reaching the huts in Botnar we turn of the path to look at Markarfljotsgljufur, approximately 200 m deep canyon carved out by the glacial river Markarfljot. The hut in Botnar is in a little green oasis, a welcomed sight after walking through the black sands.
(B, L, r, D). Distance: 15 km (9.5 mi). Walking time: 6-7 hrs. Descent: 40 m (130 ').
DAY 5: EMSTRUR - THORSMORK VALLEY
We put Emstrur behind us and continue on our way to Thorsmork. The trail takes us within a few kilometers from the great Myrdalsjokull glacier. As we descend towards Almenningar a few trees can be seen, a sign we are getting closer to the coast. We walk under the characteristic mountain Einhyrningur (“The Unicorn”) and into the dense birch forest in Thorsmork. Thorsmork is a green valley nesting under the glaciers Eyjafjallajokull and Myrdalsjokull, a magnificent place to spend the night.
(B, L, r, D) Distance: 15 km (9.5 mi) Walking time: 6-7 hrs Descent: 300 m (985 ')
DAY 6: HIKING TO MAGNI AND MODI VOLCANO, FIMMVORDUHALS PASS
Today we leave Thorsmork early in the morning and head for the mountain pass between the two glaciers, Eyjafjallajokull and Myrdalsjokull. We will walk up to the two new craters formed in 2010, Magni and Modi, named after the sons of Thor. On the way, we pass by a formation of lava in a waterfall shape made in the eruption. Here you have a chance to see how Iceland is still being built, formed and shaped by its nature. We will be greeted with a fantastic view over the valley. We spend the night in Thorsmork and have a GOOD BYE party while enjoying a traditional Icelandic grilled Lamb for dinner.
(B, L, r, D). Distance: 16 km (10 mi). Walking time: 7-8 hrs. Ascent: 800 m (2600 ').
DAY 7: THORSMORK VALLEY - VIK
In the morning we have a leisurely breakfast in the hut before going out to explore the amazing surroundings. The volcanos Katla and Eyjafjallajokull surround the Thorsmork valley, for thousands of years these volcanoes and the glaciers that cover them, have carved the sandstone in Thorsmork into surreal sculptures dotted with moss and arctic birch trees. We hike up the mountain Valahnukur for a fantastic view over the valley. Those who wish can also simply spend the day relaxing and enjoying nature in this beautiful place. We have an early evening departure at around 18:30. We go to Vik for the night.
(B, L, D). Distance: 6 km (3,5 mi). Walking time: 3 hrs.
DAY 8: VIK - FJADRÁRGLJÚFUR - SKAFTAFELL NATIONAL PARK - HOF
The Icelandic landscapes have thus far been spectacular, yet more is to come. The highly unique Fjaðrárgljúfur canyon is sure to impress. It's said to be 2 million years old. After strolling along Fjaðrárgljúfur canyon's rim, we'll head to Skaftafell National Park. The iconic Svartifoss waterfall is a short high within in the national park. It's unique geographical features are made of columnar basalt. We'll have sweeping views of the Svinafelljokull Glacier (arguably some of the best views on our adventure) as we walk back to the visitor's center. We'll drive to Hof for our evenings lodgings. (B, L, D) 
DAY 9: HOF - FJALLSÁRLÓN & JÖKULSÁRLÓN GLACIER LAGOON - VIK
Today is a day for floating ice. We'll visit another iconic Icelandic travel site: Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon. On our way to Jökulsárlón, we'll stop at another glacier lagoon that's off the beaten path and less visited than Jökulsárlón: Fjallsárlón Glacier Lagoon. We'll enjoy our time at these two sights at our leisure. Afterwords, we'll head over to the black sand beach known as Diamond Beach. There are no diamonds there, but giant diamond look-a-likes: icebergs. Huge chunks of ice break off from the Vatnajökull and get swept out to sea to then be brought back in to shore by the tide. We'll take our time strolling the black sand and blue ice. Transfer to Vik for the evening. (B, L, D) 
DAY 10: VIK - HALSANEFSHELLIR CAVE - SKÓGAFOSS - HVOLSVÖLLUR
Today will be filled with several short hikes, each one offering something new and different from the other. First we'll take a trail up to a prow and viewpoint called Reynisfjara (2h). This viewpoint overlooks the North Atlantic Ocean. We'll then drive to the famous cave of columnar basalt known as Hálsanefshellir Cave. It's right on the beach so there's plenty of exploring to be had. Next, we'll drive to a towering waterfall, one of the most recognized in all of Icealnd, the 197 foot Skógafoss. You can hike to the top for far reaching views. After we've exhausted ourselves with the day's hikes, we'll retreat to our accommodation near Hvolsvöllur. (B, L, D)
DAY 11: HVOLSVÖLLUR - THINGVELLIR NATIONAL PARK
Today we take a drive through the famous Golden Circle, arguably the most well known destination in all of Iceland. The Golden Circle is made up of three main sites: The unique-looking Gullfoss Waterfall, the explosive Stokkur Geysir, and where it all began for Iceland, Þingvellir National Park (historic beginning of Iceland as a nation state; Silfra, the American and Eurasian continental rift valley). We'll dedicate our day to visiting each one of these beautiful and historic sites. This evening's lodging will be in cozy cabins in the vastly open Icelandic landscapes. (B, L, D) 
DAY 12: THINGVELLIR NATIONAL PARK - BLUE LAGOON - KEFLAVIK
After a relaxing start to the day, we'll head back to the Reykjanes Peninsula where we'll visit the famous geothermic pools and resort known as the Blue Lagoon. This luxurious natural sight is a welcomed paradise after many days on the trail. Enjoy the hot water, the steam rising in the air, and even perhaps the imbibe in the restorative properties of the minerall-rich clay on your face and skin. After a restful day at the spa we'll head back to our guesthouse in Keflavik. (B, L, D) 
DAY 13: MIÒLÍNA BRIDGE - GUNNUHVER HOT SPRINGS - DEPART
The morning is free to use as you wish. Depending on individual departure times, you may choose to enjoy a leisurely morning overlooking the surrounding mystical volcanic landscapes, or you can choose to join an optional outing with our group around the Reykjanes Peninsula. We'll visit the Miðlína Bridge, also known as "Leif the Lucky Bridge." This unique bridge is a walkway that spans the Álfagjá rift valley, linking the North American & Eurasian tectonic plates. The rift is currently about 18.3 metres wide and 6.1 metres deep and it is widening by an average of 2 cm per year. After we've crossed from the America to the Eurasian tectonic plate, we'll visit the Gunnuhver Hot Springs for a short walk through a treasure trove of volcanic activity. Our adventure comes to a close. A Volant representative will shuttle you to the Keflavik International Airport for your international departure. Bless bless! (B - breakfast) 
DAY 1: WELCOME TO REYKJAVIK, ICELAND
A Volant representative will pick you up at the airport and transfer you to your hotel (1h). Take a relaxing walk through the streets of downtown Reykjavik, or, depending on your arrival time, you could join a free downtown walking tour at 1pm (optional). Take in the shops, the culture, and the historic harbor. Enjoy a welcome dinner and a leisurely evening. (D - welcome dinner)
DAY 2: REYKJAVIK - LANDMANNALAUGAR - HRAFNTINNUSKER
Today we'll begin the Laugavegar Trek. Volant Travel has teamed up with the local company, Trek Iceland, to provide a professional and safe, Icelandic backcountry experience.
The tour starts by the Reykjavík tourist info at Reykjavik's City Hall (Ráðhúsið) by Tjörnin pond at 7.00 a.m. where you meet your guide. It's located in downtown Reykjavik and within walking distance from most hotels, hostels and guesthouses in central Reykjavik. We also offer pick up at selected locations around Reykjavik (see other pick up locations in tour description). After introductions, we board the scheduled bus that takes us to Landmannalaugar. The drive takes about 3-4 hours, on the way we travel along the south coast and then turn inland and pass Iceland's most active volcano, Hekla.
Our hike starts in Landmannalaugar as we walk through this geothermal wonderland and look at the colorful mountains and steaming hot springs. The trail takes us through the rough lava field, Laugahraun. From there we move to the slopes of Brennisteinsalda, which is known worldwide for its incredible spectrums of colors and photogenic looks. We walk by the beautiful hot spring Storihver before crossing into the obsidian desert by Hrafntinnusker. Storihver is one of the very few green grounds we will encounter on this day. We spend the night in the hut in Hrafntinnusker, one of the most remote huts in Iceland, surrounded by Hrafntinna or Obsidian.
(B, L, r, D). Distance: 12 km (7.5 mi). Walking time: 4-5 hrs. Ascent: 470 m (1540 ').
DAY 3: HRAFNTINNUSKER - ALFTAVATN (WHOOPER SWAN LAKE)
After a communal breakfast in the hut, we head out again and walk along the Reykjafjoll mountains and then descend into the Jokultungur area. The geothermal activity has turned these gullies yellow and red. We will leave the colorful rhyolite mountains and enter into an area with dark palagonite mountains and a breathtaking glacier view. If the visibility is good we hike up to Mt. Haskerdingur were the view greets you with countless glaciers, mountains and volcanoes. During the next steps, the landscape will be a lot greener and you might notice a considerable increase in vegetation. From the top of Jokultungur, there is a great view over the Fjallabak area and lake Alftavatn which is our next overnight stop. The trail down Jokulstungur is rather steep but once you are down you have landed in a fertile paradise on the banks of the river Grashagakvisl. Before reaching Alftavatn we cross an unbridged stream on foot. We spend the night in the hut by the lake.
(B, L, r, D). Distance: 12 km (7.5 mi). Walking time: 4-5 hrs. Descent: 490 m (1610 ').
DAY 4: ALFTAVATN - EMSTRUR
We start the day with another refreshing stream crossing as we make our way past the green volcano Stórasúla and into the black desert of Maelifellssandur. On our way, we will see Hattafell, a volcano with a strange flat top. We walk through this black glacial desert and into Emstrur where there is a chance to enjoy a view of Eyjafjallajokull and Myrdalsjokull glaciers. Emstrur is a lush region where farmers used to graze their sheep during the summertime. Just before reaching the huts in Botnar we turn of the path to look at Markarfljotsgljufur, approximately 200 m deep canyon carved out by the glacial river Markarfljot. The hut in Botnar is in a little green oasis, a welcomed sight after walking through the black sands.
(B, L, r, D). Distance: 15 km (9.5 mi). Walking time: 6-7 hrs. Descent: 40 m (130 ').
DAY 5: EMSTRUR - THORSMORK VALLEY
We put Emstrur behind us and continue on our way to Thorsmork. The trail takes us within a few kilometers from the great Myrdalsjokull glacier. As we descend towards Almenningar a few trees can be seen, a sign we are getting closer to the coast. We walk under the characteristic mountain Einhyrningur (“The Unicorn”) and into the dense birch forest in Thorsmork. Thorsmork is a green valley nesting under the glaciers Eyjafjallajokull and Myrdalsjokull, a magnificent place to spend the night.
(B, L, r, D) Distance: 15 km (9.5 mi) Walking time: 6-7 hrs Descent: 300 m (985 ')
DAY 6: HIKING TO MAGNI AND MODI VOLCANO, FIMMVORDUHALS PASS
Today we leave Thorsmork early in the morning and head for the mountain pass between the two glaciers, Eyjafjallajokull and Myrdalsjokull. We will walk up to the two new craters formed in 2010, Magni and Modi, named after the sons of Thor. On the way, we pass by a formation of lava in a waterfall shape made in the eruption. Here you have a chance to see how Iceland is still being built, formed and shaped by its nature. We will be greeted with a fantastic view over the valley. We spend the night in Thorsmork and have a GOOD BYE party while enjoying a traditional Icelandic grilled Lamb for dinner.
(B, L, r, D). Distance: 16 km (10 mi). Walking time: 7-8 hrs. Ascent: 800 m (2600 ').
DAY 7: THORSMORK VALLEY - VIK
In the morning we have a leisurely breakfast in the hut before going out to explore the amazing surroundings. The volcanos Katla and Eyjafjallajokull surround the Thorsmork valley, for thousands of years these volcanoes and the glaciers that cover them, have carved the sandstone in Thorsmork into surreal sculptures dotted with moss and arctic birch trees. We hike up the mountain Valahnukur for a fantastic view over the valley. Those who wish can also simply spend the day relaxing and enjoying nature in this beautiful place. We have an early evening departure at around 18:30. We go to Vik for the night.
(B, L, D). Distance: 6 km (3,5 mi). Walking time: 3 hrs.
DAY 8: VIK - FJADRÁRGLJÚFUR - SKAFTAFELL NATIONAL PARK - HOF
The Icelandic landscapes have thus far been spectacular, yet more is to come. The highly unique Fjaðrárgljúfur canyon is sure to impress. It's said to be 2 million years old. After strolling along Fjaðrárgljúfur canyon's rim, we'll head to Skaftafell National Park. The iconic Svartifoss waterfall is a short high within in the national park. It's unique geographical features are made of columnar basalt. We'll have sweeping views of the Svinafelljokull Glacier (arguably some of the best views on our adventure) as we walk back to the visitor's center. We'll drive to Hof for our evenings lodgings. (B, L, D)
DAY 9: HOF - FJALLSÁRLÓN & JÖKULSÁRLÓN GLACIER LAGOON - VIK
Today is a day for floating ice. We'll visit another iconic Icelandic travel site: Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon. On our way to Jökulsárlón, we'll stop at another glacier lagoon that's off the beaten path and less visited than Jökulsárlón: Fjallsárlón Glacier Lagoon. We'll enjoy our time at these two sights at our leisure. Afterwords, we'll head over to the black sand beach known as Diamond Beach. There are no diamonds there, but giant diamond look-a-likes: icebergs. Huge chunks of ice break off from the Vatnajökull and get swept out to sea to then be brought back in to shore by the tide. We'll take our time strolling the black sand and blue ice. Transfer to Vik for the evening. (B, L, D)
DAY 10: VIK - HALSANEFSHELLIR CAVE - SKÓGAFOSS - HVOLSVÖLLUR
Today will be filled with several short hikes, each one offering something new and different from the other. First we'll take a trail up to a prow and viewpoint called Reynisfjara (2h). This viewpoint overlooks the North Atlantic Ocean. We'll then drive to the famous cave of columnar basalt known as Hálsanefshellir Cave. It's right on the beach so there's plenty of exploring to be had. Next, we'll drive to a towering waterfall, one of the most recognized in all of Icealnd, the 197 foot Skógafoss. You can hike to the top for far reaching views. After we've exhausted ourselves with the day's hikes, we'll retreat to our accommodation near Hvolsvöllur. (B, L, D)
DAY 11: HVOLSVÖLLUR - THINGVELLIR NATIONAL PARK
Today we take a drive through the famous Golden Circle, arguably the most well known destination in all of Iceland. The Golden Circle is made up of three main sites: The unique-looking Gullfoss Waterfall, the explosive Stokkur Geysir, and where it all began for Iceland, Þingvellir National Park (historic beginning of Iceland as a nation state; Silfra, the American and Eurasian continental rift valley). We'll dedicate our day to visiting each one of these beautiful and historic sites. This evening's lodging will be in cozy cabins in the vastly open Icelandic landscapes. (B, L, D)
DAY 12: THINGVELLIR NATIONAL PARK - BLUE LAGOON - KEFLAVIK
After a relaxing start to the day, we'll head back to the Reykjanes Peninsula where we'll visit the famous geothermic pools and resort known as the Blue Lagoon. This luxurious natural sight is a welcomed paradise after many days on the trail. Enjoy the hot water, the steam rising in the air, and even perhaps the imbibe in the restorative properties of the minerall-rich clay on your face and skin. After a restful day at the spa we'll head back to our guesthouse in Keflavik. (B, L, D)
DAY 13: MIÒLÍNA BRIDGE - GUNNUHVER HOT SPRINGS - DEPART
The morning is free to use as you wish. Depending on individual departure times, you may choose to enjoy a leisurely morning overlooking the surrounding mystical volcanic landscapes, or you can choose to join an optional outing with our group around the Reykjanes Peninsula. We'll visit the Miðlína Bridge, also known as "Leif the Lucky Bridge." This unique bridge is a walkway that spans the Álfagjá rift valley, linking the North American & Eurasian tectonic plates. The rift is currently about 18.3 metres wide and 6.1 metres deep and it is widening by an average of 2 cm per year. After we've crossed from the America to the Eurasian tectonic plate, we'll visit the Gunnuhver Hot Springs for a short walk through a treasure trove of volcanic activity. Our adventure comes to a close. A Volant representative will shuttle you to the Keflavik International Airport for your international departure. Bless bless! (B - breakfast)
Laugavegur Trek & Iceland Highlights
13 Days
Inclusions
- Scheduled Accommodations
- Scheduled Meals
- Transportation throughout tour
- Personal guide
Exclusions
- International airfare
- Entrance fees to museums and other attractions
- Optional tour fees: Glacier treks, glacier ice tunnels, snowmobiling, horseback riding, boat tours, aurora borealis tours, whale watching tours, kayaking, etc.
- Personal items: Laundry, shopping, etc.
Basic Equipment List for the Laugavegur Trek
Basic checklist:
- Hiking boots – good sturdy boots with sufficient ankle support, robust sole and waterproof
- Thermal underwear (long sleeve top and bottom) made of wool or synthetics (not cotton)
- Wool or fleece thermal mid layer
- Hiking pants (we don’t recommend cottons as they take long to dry if wet)
- Hiking socks made of wool or synthetic (at least 2-3 pairs)
- Waterproof and breathable (fabric such as Gore Tex or similar) both pants and jacket (preferably with a hood)
- Gloves and mittens – wool or synthetic (waterproof over gloves/mitts recommended)
- Warm hat and/or balaclava
- HEALTH SUPPLIES AND PRESCRIPTION MEDICINE IF NEEDED
- Day backpack about 25-40 L
- Travel sack for your baggage that is transported between huts. (Suitcases are not recommended, we recommend a waterproof duffel bag)
- River crossing shoes -for example quick drying trail runners, sandals (with straps) or neoprene shoes
- Sleeping bag and travel pillow
- Towel
- Toothbrush and personal toiletries
- Sunglasses/sunscreen
- 1-2 L Water bottle
- Hiking poles
- Gaiters
- Penknife
- Camera, batteries & memory card
- Book
- Headlamp for trips in late season (after August 10th)
- Earplugs
- Money for the showers (500 kr in coins)
- Power bank / portable charging device
By email: info@Volant.Travel
By phone: 801.651.7208
Laugavegur Trek | South Coast
IcelandQuestions?
Talk or Text a Real Person
John: Volant Travel
(801) 651-7208
| Title | Address | Description |
|---|---|---|
Keflavik International Airport | Keflavík International Airport, 235, Iceland |
|
Blue Lagoon Spa | Nordurljosavegur 9, 240 Grindavik, Iceland |
|
Thingvellir National Park | Iceland |
|
Geysir | Geysir, Iceland |
|
Gullfoss | Gullfoss Falls, Iceland |
|
Seljalandsfoss | Seljalandsfoss, Iceland |
|
Skógafoss | Skógafoss, Iceland |
|
Fjaðrárgljúfur | Iceland |
|
Svartifoss | 8, Iceland |
|
Vík | Vik, Iceland |
|
Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon | Jökulsárlón, Iceland |
|
Fjallsárlón Glacier Lagoon | Fjallsárlón, Iceland |
|
Landmannalaugar | Landmannalaugar, Iceland |
|
Thórsmörk | Thórsmörk, Iceland |
|
Vatnajökull Glacier & National Park | Vatnajokull, Iceland |
|
Diamond Beach | Diamond Head Dr, Merritt Island, Iceland |
|
Reynisfjara Beach | Reynisfjara, Iceland |
|
Reykjavík | Reykjavík, Iceland |
|
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