6-day self-guided hike Laugavegur and Fimmvörðuháls
In summary
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Sports
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Duration6 days
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LevelIntermediate
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DestinationEurope / Iceland
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AgeFrom 16 - 90 years
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CO₂-Emissions8.2 kg CO2
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Type of stayIndependent traveler
In a few words
Embark on an unforgettable 6-day self-guided trek along the Laugavegur Trail, traveling from the multicolored rhyolite mountains of Landmannalaugar to the lush valley of Þórsmörk, camping in tents along the way.
This route presents an incredible variety of landscapes , starting in the brilliant lava fields of Landmannalaugar and climbing towards Hrafntinnusker , an area famous for its obsidian formations and snowfields that persist well beyond summer.
The trail then descends into the Jökultungur valley , known for its striking mountain forms and vibrant sedimentary layers , before reaching the tranquil shores of Lake Álftavatn — a wonderful place to camp and enjoy the calm of nature .
The adventure continues across the black sand desert of Mælifellssandur , past the isolated mountain Hattafell and the spectacular Markarfljót canyon , finally arriving at the Emstrur campsite , framed by views of the Mýrdalsjökull and Eyjafjallajökull glaciers .
The trek ends at Þórsmörk , a verdant sanctuary filled with dense vegetation and enchanting landscapes — an ideal finale to this remarkable journey .
Don't miss the chance to experience this unique Icelandic adventure . Every day on the Laugavegur trail brings new wonders and breathtaking landscapes , guaranteeing lasting memories and a deep connection with nature . Discover it for yourself !
The highlights
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Go on a 6-day self-guided trek from Landmannalaugar to the lush Þór Valley
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Observe the colorful rhyolite mountains, lava fields, deserts, and glaciers.
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Camp under the stars and experience one of Iceland's most unforgettable hikes.
Photos
Sport
Level
Hiking / Trekking
Management
Program
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From Reykjavík to Landmannalaugar
- Accommodation Camping
- Breakfast not included
- Lunch not included
- Dinner not included
We leave Reykjavík after breakfast at 7:00 am (pick-ups start at 6:30 am) and head towards the Icelandic Highlands . This first day is relatively relaxed , our main objective being to reach the Landmannalaugar campsite .
Once there, we will pitch our tents and enjoy a gentle introductory hike — perfect for getting used to the terrain and starting our walking adventure.
- Distance : 11 km
- Ascent : 402 m
- Descent : 380 m
- Duration : 4 to 5 hours
Day 1 -
From Landmannalaugar to Hrafntinnusker to Álftavatn
- Accommodation Camping
- Breakfast not included
- Lunch not included
- Dinner not included
⛰️ Landmannalaugar
The real adventure begins here! After an early breakfast and breaking camp, we set off on our hike. This is the longest day of the trek, taking us across the Laugahraun lava field and up to the Stórihver geothermal area. This section offers panoramic views of the valley.
💎 Hrafntinnusker
As we gain altitude, the landscape transforms dramatically. We reach Hrafntinnusker , famous for its striking deposits of black obsidian . Even in summer, patches of snow and ice often remain in this area, giving the landscape an almost supernatural atmosphere.
🏞️ Jökultungur
The Hrafntinnusker to Álftavatn trail begins with a descent into the Jökultungur valley , renowned for its layers of coloured sediments and unique mountain formations.
🦢 Álftavatn
This stage ends at Lake Álftavatn , nestled between the mountains in a peaceful and picturesque setting. The name "Swan Lake" reflects the tranquility of this place, where we will set up camp and relax. The view of the lake framed by the surrounding peaks is one of the most memorable highlights of the trek.
Distance : 24 km
Ascent : 629 m
Descent : 692 m
Duration : 8 to 9 hours
Day 2 -
From Álftavatn to Emstrur
- Accommodation Camping
- Breakfast not included
- Lunch not included
- Dinner not included
🏞️ Álftavatn
The hike from Álftavatn to Emstrur begins in the beautiful setting of Lake Álftavatn , surrounded by mountains and verdant meadows. This spot is perfect for enjoying a peaceful sunrise before starting the walk.
🌊 Crossing the Brattháls River
The route continues towards the Brattháls River crossing, where you will cross the Kaldaklofskvísl River. Here, the panoramic views of the valley and surrounding mountains are breathtaking . It's an excellent spot to stop and take photos of the spectacular scenery.
🏔️ Hattafell and Mælifellssandur Desert
After crossing the river, the hike takes you through the black sand desert of Maelifellssandur . Along the way, you will pass near Mount Hattafell , a solitary mountain rising above the desert landscape, offering a striking contrast .
⛰️ Markarfljót Gorge
Before reaching Emstrur, the road runs alongside the impressive Markarfljót River gorge . This deep and steep canyon offers dramatic views and is one of the highlights of this section of the hike.
⛺ Emstrur
The day ends at the Emstrur campsite , located in a more arid area but offering spectacular views of the Mýrdalsjökull and Eyjafjallajökull glaciers. Here, you can rest and prepare for the next stage of the hike.
- Distance : 15 km
- Ascent : 260 m
- Descent: 258 m
- Duration : 4 to 5 hours
Day 3 -
From Emstrur to Thórsmörk
- Accommodation Camping
- Breakfast not included
- Lunch not included
- Dinner not included
🏞️ Emstrur
From the Emstrur campsite, the trail begins with a descent into the valley, passing small streams and tundra terrain. The change from black sand desert to increasingly green surroundings is striking.
🌊 Crossing the Fremri-Emstruá River
One of the main challenges of this section is the ford across the Fremri-Emstruá river , whose water level can rise considerably depending on the season. Crossing it requires caution and attention .
🌳 Alder Forest
As you continue, you'll notice the vegetation becomes denser, and you'll eventually enter a more tree-covered area. This alder ( Alnus ) forest provides shade and creates a different atmosphere compared to the more open landscapes of the previous stages.
🟢 Þórsmörk Valley
The Þórsmörk Valley is famous for its breathtaking scenery and lush flora . Here, verdant mountains, glaciers, and flowing rivers create a landscape that seems almost otherworldly . It is considered one of the most beautiful parts of the entire trek.
- Distance : 16 km
- Ascent : 214 m
- Descent : 482 m
- Duration : 6 to 7 hours
Day 4 -
From Thórsmörk to Fimmvörðuháls to Thórsmörk
- Accommodation Camping
- Breakfast not included
- Lunch not included
- Dinner not included
🌉 Crossing the Krossá River
From the Langidalur refuge, the trail continues for a few kilometers until reaching the footbridge that spans the Krossá river. After crossing to the south bank, you enter Goðaland , an area where dense thickets of willows and birches thrive, protected by the walls of the Strákagil canyon.
⛰️ Kattarhryggir Ridge
From this point, the route climbs the Kattarhryggir ridge via a clearly marked but rather demanding path—particularly challenging for those prone to vertigo. This ascent leads to a natural viewpoint offering some of the most impressive panoramas in all of Iceland.
🌄 Morinsheiði Plateau
The view from the eastern edge of Morinsheiði is simply breathtaking . From there, you can see the Mýrdalsjökull glacier , above which rises the Katla volcano.
🔥 Magni and Móði
After crossing the Morinsheiði plateau, the trail continues along Heljarkambur —a narrow ridge equipped with a safety chain —and then traverses Brattafönn hill. Goðahraun offers an excellent vantage point to admire the volcanic cones created during the 2010 eruptions that caused widespread air traffic disruptions across Europe. From there, simply follow the same route back to your starting point.
- Distance : 11 km
- Ascent: 228 m
- Descent: 304 m
- Duration: 4 to 5 hours
Day 5 -
From Thórsmörk to Goðaland to Reykjavík
- Breakfast not included
- Lunch not included
- Dinner not included
Before leaving the Highlands and returning to civilization, we will spend the morning strolling through this "kingdom of the gods" , absorbing one last impression of this isolated landscape sculpted by powerful natural forces .
With scenery that becomes more breathtaking at every turn, Þórsmörk offers a wide range of trails suitable for all levels, making it a perfect destination for anyone who loves hiking and trekking.
After returning to Þórsmörk, we will be picked up at the campsite and taken back to Reykjavík , thus ending our adventure.
🚶 Tindfjallahringur to Þórsmörk
- Distance : 10 km
- Ascent : 500 m
- Descent : 500 m
- Duration : 4 to 5 hours
Day 6
Accommodation
Access
Go to the starting point
Price details
The price includes
- Transfer from Reykjavík to Landmannalaugar
- Transfer from Thorsmork to Reykjavík
- 5 nights of camping (optional tent)
- 6 days of route with self-guided tracking
- Support in English, German, Italian and Spanish during the route
The price does not include
- Flights
- Food and drinks
- Airport transfers (optional)
- Extra nights of accommodation (optional)
- Night pack with tent, sleeping bag, mat, and sheet (optional)
- Luggage transfer between camps during the routes (optional)
- Food pack (3 meals per day, stove, gas and saucepan, optional)
- Showers at campsites
- Cancellation insurance and travel assistance insurance
Options
- Flex fare and insurance
Practical information
Specific formalities
Specifics
Before your departure, check with the embassy or consulate regarding the entry and stay requirements for your destination country. You can also find this information on the France Diplomatie website ( https://www.diplomatie.gouv.fr/fr/dossiers-pays/ ).
In the case of flights with stopovers operated by different airlines, also check the entry requirements of the countries you are transiting through.
It is your responsibility to ensure you are in compliance, particularly regarding the validity of your identity documents (for example, some countries require your passport to be valid for at least six months after your return) , visa requirements, necessary vaccinations, and health recommendations. And don't forget to consider any customs restrictions and other potential requirements of your destination or transit country.
ℹ️ Information may change up to the departure date, remember to regularly check official websites.
Equipment
Equipment to bring
Daypack Duffel bag or trolley (max.20kg).
Toiletry bag with personal hygiene items.
Clothing to bring
Trekking boots or sturdy trainers,
Waterproof or Gore-Tex pants,
Waterproof or Gore-Tex jacket,
Insulating mid-layer jacket,
Fleece jumper,
Cotton T-shirt Trekking or comfortable trousers,
Hat, gloves and neck warmer
Swimwear Towel
