Laugavegur Trekking Campsite
In summary
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Sports
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Duration5 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-Emissions24.52 kg CO2
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Type of stayIndependent traveler
In a few words
On the way to this Laugavegur Trek, self-supported and camping for 5 days.
Embark on one of Iceland's must-do treks: the Laugavegur, from Landmannalaugar to Thórsmörk. The route covers approximately 80 km, traversing colourful mountains, lava fields and glacial valleys.
This self-guided trek is designed to allow you to progress with complete peace of mind along a marked route from Landmannalaugar to Thórsmörk. Each day you will walk between 4 and 7 hours depending on the stage, enjoying incredibly varied landscapes (rhyolite, black sand, glaciers, river crossings).
In the evening, you sleep camping near mountain huts, surrounded by Icelandic nature.
Choose your level of independence. Customize your package, reduce the weight of your pack if needed, and fully enjoy this legendary Laugavegur trek.
The highlights
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Accommodation availability is guaranteed thanks to our private tents, not the shelters.
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Everything you need is included, including transfer from Reykjavik.
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We offer several extras to personalize your experience.
Photos
Sport
Level
Hiking / Trekking
Management
To ensure you're well-prepared, we'll send you a detailed list of all recommended equipment in advance, along with practical tips for packing your bag. And if you have any questions about the equipment or need to rent additional gear, please don't hesitate to contact us.
Program
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Reykjavík - Landmannalaugar
- Transportation Bus - 04h - 196km
- Breakfast not included
- Lunch not included
- Dinner not included
11 km · 4–5 h · Moderate elevation gain · Overnight camping
Departure by 4x4 from Reykjavík (possible stop in Hella) to reach Landmannalaugar, in the heart of the Fjallabak reserve. Camp set up upon arrival, near the shelters equipped with sanitary facilities.
In the afternoon, a loop hike around Landmannalaugar: colorful rhyolite mountains, lava fields and steaming hot springs. You walk at your own pace.
💡 Tip: Bring your swimsuit to enjoy the hot springs at the end of the day.
Dinner at the camp and overnight stay in a tent. There are no shops on the trail: bring your own supplies or opt for the optional meal pack.
Day 1 -
Landmannalaugar → Hrafntinnusker → Alftavatn
- Accommodation Camping
- Breakfast not included
- Lunch not included
- Dinner not included
Distance: 24 km
Duration: 8-9 hours
Elevation gain/loss: +629 m / -692 m
Difficulty: Medium to high
We start the day in Landmannalaugar with a good breakfast before packing our bags. Those who have chosen the luggage transfer option will be able to walk lighter (max. 1 bag per person). Any extra camping equipment will be returned to the camp before departure.
This is the longest stage of the trek: it's best to leave early to enjoy it without rushing. The trail first crosses the Laugahraun lava field, then climbs towards the Stórihver geothermal area with its unobstructed views of the neighboring glaciers.
As you approach Hrafntinnusker , the scenery changes radically: black obsidian, persistent snowfields… A unique, almost unreal atmosphere, even in the heart of summer.
The descent towards Jökultungur then reveals colourful mountains, streams and more abundant vegetation with touches of wildflowers.
The stage ends at the shores of the magnificent Lake Álftavatn , surrounded by mountains. An ideal place to relax and admire the sunset after a beautiful day of hiking.
If you booked the luggage transfer or camping option, your equipment will be ready upon arrival. A well-deserved night in a tent 🌙✨
Day 2 -
Álftavatn → Emstrur
- Accommodation Camping
- Breakfast not included
- Lunch not included
- Dinner not included
Distance: 15 km
Duration: 4-5 hours
Elevation gain/loss: +260 m / -258 m
Difficulty: Medium
We start the day at the edge of Lake Álftavatn , surrounded by mountains and meadows. After breakfast at the campsite, you pack up your tent, prepare your bag, and hit the trail again.
The route soon leads you to the Brattháls river, where you have to cross the Kaldaklofskvísl stream. It's a perfect spot to take a short break, enjoy the view over the valley, and get your camera out.
The hike then continues through the vast black sand desert of Mælifellssandur . The landscape becomes more mineral and wild, with the isolated mountain Hattafell passing by, standing out like a cone in the middle of the volcanic plains.
Approaching Emstrur , the trail runs alongside the Markarfljót river gorge: an impressive canyon with panoramic views of the mountains, valleys and glacial rivers below.
The day ends at the Emstrur campsite , near the refuge, in a rugged but spectacular setting. From here, the view of the Mýrdalsjökull and Eyjafjallajökull glaciers is incredible. It's time to rest and prepare for the final leg of the trek.
Day 3 -
Emstrur → Þórsmörk
- Accommodation Camping
- Breakfast not included
- Lunch not included
- Dinner not included
Distance: 16 km
Duration: 6-7 hours
Elevation gain/loss: +214 m / -482 m
Difficulty: Medium
After breakfast at Emstrur camp, you pack up your tent and resume your hike. The trail descends gently, crossing streams and passing through tundra. The landscapes gradually change: the volcanic desert gives way to a greener, more inviting environment.
Crossing the Fremri-Emstruá River is one of the highlights of the day. The water level varies depending on the conditions, so you cross calmly, choosing the best spot to place your foot. It's a chance to admire the vast expanse of black sand behind you one last time.
As we continued, the vegetation became denser until we entered an alder forest , a completely new atmosphere after several days in open terrain. The shade and coolness were most welcome!
Then, the view gradually opens up to the spectacular Þórsmörk valley : steep mountains, braided rivers, glaciers in the distance… A magnificent arrival to celebrate the end of the trek 🎉
You will spend the night at one of the campsites in the valley (Langidalur, Húsadalur or Básar, depending on availability). Once your booking is confirmed, a detailed itinerary will show you the exact location of your campsite.
Last evening in the heart of Icelandic nature, perfect for reflecting on all the adventures of the previous days.
Day 4 -
Thórsmörk - Godaland - Reykjavík
- Transportation Bus - 04h - 196km
- Breakfast not included
- Lunch not included
- Dinner not included
Distance: 9.5 km
Duration: 6-7 hours
Elevation gain/loss: +500 m / -500 m
Difficulty level: Medium
After breakfast at the Þórsmörk Valley camp, you'll enjoy your last few hours in this unique landscape, sculpted by glaciers and rivers. The area is full of trails and viewpoints: it's the perfect place for a final day of hiking.
You'll be setting off on a loop of approximately 9.5 km , starting and ending at the camp. Allow 6 to 7 hours for the hike, with several breaks to admire the panoramic views of the valleys, peaks, and glacial tongues all around.
Back at camp, you collect your belongings and prepare for departure. Around 4:00 PM , a 4x4 will pick you up in Þórsmörk for the return trip to Reykjavík. The camp staff can help you plan your day to ensure you're ready on time.
After several days of adventure in the Icelandic highlands, the trek comes to an end, but the images of Þórsmörk and the previous stages will remain in memory for a long time.
Day 5
Accommodation
Accommodation consists of reserved campsites next to the Landmannalaugar refuge, in the heart of the Icelandic Highlands. Participants pitch their own tents in a spectacular natural environment surrounded by volcanic mountains, lava fields, and hot springs.
Access
Go to the starting point
Price details
The price includes
Return transfers from Reykjavik
4 nights' camping accommodation
Route details (GPS tracks)
24/7 assistance during hiking days
Tourist activity rate in Iceland
The price does not include
Camping equipment [available at an additional cost].
Meals and cooking kit [available at an additional cost].
Luggage transport between shelters [available at an additional cost].
Airport transfers [available at an additional cost].
Trekking poles [available at an additional cost].
Options
- Camping equipment : CHF77.76 / person
- Food and cooking pack : CHF160.09 / person
- Luggage transport between stages : CHF132.65 / person
- Trekking poles : CHF22.87 / person
- Airport transfer. From Reykjavík to Keflavík : CHF50.31 / person
- Airport transfer. From Keflavík to Reykjavík : CHF50.31 / person
- 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
Basic equipment
- A large backpack (65-80L): To carry all your equipment.
- Daypack (30-40L): Essentially for days 1 and 5, or every day if you opt for luggage transfer.
- Sleeping bag: Comfort rating of at least 2°C (35°F).
- Tent: minimum 3 seasons, resistant to wind and rain.
- Sleeping mattress: R-value of 3 or more for insulation against cold floors.
- Trekking poles: Recommended to reduce pressure on the knees.
Water and food
- Enough food for 5 days: No supermarkets along the track. (Or add the meal package: breakfast, lunch & dinner).
- Stove, gas and saucepan: If you are preparing your own meals.
- Water bottles or hydration system (2l/day): Refill points available at shelters and on some sections of the trail.
Other essential elements
- Headlamp + spare batteries: For moving around at night.
- Quick-drying towel and toiletries: Biodegradable preferred.
- Sunscreen and lip balm: Icelandic climate can be deceptive.
- First aid kit and medications: Bandages, painkillers, disinfectant.
- Map or GPS: The trail is marked, but it's always good to have a backup plan.
Clothing to bring
- Waterproof trekking boots: Well-worn and comfortable.
- Waterproof jacket and trousers: Essential for rain and wind in Iceland.
- Thermal base layers: For cold nights.
- Fleece or lightweight insulated jacket: To stay warm.
- Quick-drying trekking trousers: Durable and comfortable.
- Gloves, hat and scarf: Protection against the cold.
- Thermal socks + extra pairs: To avoid blisters and cold feet.
- Sunglasses and a cap: To protect yourself from the sun and wind.
