Laugavegur Trekking Excursion with Camping - 4 days

This second stage is the longest and most demanding of the trek . After breakfast and breaking camp, the hike begins from Landmannalaugar towards the Laugahraun lava field, before a gradual ascent to the Stórihver geothermal area. The route offers sweeping views of the surrounding valleys and, on a clear day, of glaciers.

The ascent continues to Hrafntinnusker , a high-altitude area marked by deposits of black obsidian. The trail passes near the Höskuldsskáli refuge, in an environment where snow and ice can be present even in summer , making the conditions more alpine.

After Hrafntinnusker, the route begins a long descent towards the Jökultungur valley . The landscape gradually changes: from volcanic soils to streams, small lakes and denser vegetation, with geothermal activity visible in places.

The stage ends at Lake Álftavatn , also known as "Swan Lake," where the campsite is located. The arrival marks the end of a 24 km day, with a total elevation gain of +629 m / loss of -692 m and an estimated walking time of 8 to 9 hours . The site offers an open and peaceful setting, ideal for resting after exertion, especially at the end of the day when the light reflects off the lake.

After sunrise in Álftavatn and breakfast, the hike resumes heading south. This stage is shorter and more accessible than the previous day, with a moderate level of difficulty , ideal for recovering while continuing the trek through the Icelandic Highlands.

The trail initially leads towards the Brattháls River, crossing the Kaldaklofskvísl . The landscape gradually opens up to vast volcanic expanses, offering sweeping views of the surrounding valleys and mountains. A break is recommended to observe the surroundings and take photos.

The route continues through the black sand desert of Maelifellssandur , one of the most distinctive sections of the Laugavegur. This arid area contrasts sharply with the previous stages. Along the way, Hattafell , an isolated mountain that stands out clearly against the volcanic landscape, comes into view.

Before reaching the camp, the trail follows the Markarfljót River gorge , a deep canyon that marks the transition to the Emstrur region. The views of the valleys and geological formations are particularly clear on this section.

The day ends at the Emstrur campsite , located near the refuge. The site offers sweeping views of the Mýrdalsjökull and Eyjafjallajökull glaciers. After a hike of approximately 15 km (4 to 5 hours, +260 m / −258 m), the rest of the day is spent on dinner and resting in preparation for the final stage of the trek.

After the final breakfast and the dismantling of camp at Emstrur , the hike resumes for the last leg of the trek. The route begins with a gradual descent through tundra landscapes, with small streams and a clear transition between arid volcanic areas and increasingly dense vegetation.

One of the key sections of the day is crossing the Fremri-Emstruá river . Its flow varies depending on weather conditions and the time of year; this section therefore requires attention and caution in order to cross the waterway safely.

After the crossing, the trail continues towards the Thórsmörk valley . As you approach, the landscape changes noticeably: the vegetation becomes denser and the route crosses an alder forest, offering a shadier environment and contrasting with the open spaces of the previous days.

Arriving at Thórsmörk marks the end of the hiking portion of the trek. This valley, surrounded by mountains, glaciers, and rivers, is one of the most iconic sections of the route. The day's hike covers approximately 16 km , with an elevation gain of +214 m and a descent of -482 m , and an estimated hiking time of 6 to 7 hours .

At the end of the hike, a bus transfer is planned from the Thórsmörk camp for the return to Reykjavík , ending the Laugavegur trek in 4 days.