Laugavegur Trail Encompassed
Laugavegur Trail Encompassed
Laugavegur Trail Encompassed
6 Days Starting and ending in Reykjavik, Iceland
Visiting: Landmannalaugar, Álftavatn, Mýrdalsjökull, Þórsmörk, Thórsmörk
Tour operator:
Tour code:
ILS
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Group size:
6 - 16
Tour operated in:
EnglishTrip Styles:
Active, Adventure Tours, Camping, Small Group, Walking Hiking and Trekking
Interests:
Tour Overview
Embark on the "Laugavegur Trail Encompassed" adventure, combining two of Iceland's most renowned hikes: the Laugavegur Trail and a section of the Fimmvorðuháls Trek. Traverse the world's third-largest geothermal zone, marvel at the dramatic landscapes, and soak in the natural beauty of this classic trail. Stay in rustic mountain huts and enjoy the camaraderie of fellow walkers. This fully supported trek includes 5 nights in mountain huts, all meals, luggage transfers, and an experienced English-speaking guide. Starting and ending in Reykjavik, this journey offers a unique opportunity to explore Iceland's stunning wilderness, from volcanic plains to lush valleys.
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1 : Bus From Reykjavik To Landmannalauger, Walk To Hrafntinnusker (4-5Hrs)
Location: Landmannalaugar
Accommodation Name: Hrafntinnusker mountain hut
Meals Included: Lunch, Dinner
Meet your guide and group in Reykjavik early this morning (at 6.30am). We take the early bus (at 7am sharp) that drives along the mountain tracks that lead to Landmannalaugar, passing by the Hekla volcano and others volcanoes in the Domadalur area. Arriving in Landmannalaugar around noon, we have lunch then start out by crossing the 500-year-old Laugahraun lava flow that is still giving heat to Landmannalaugar hot springs. Climbing steadily past numerous Sulphur vents, we top a succession of rolling rhyolite hills before descending to the steaming hot springs of Stórihver. As we get higher, the better we can understand the forces of nature. Up on the plateau, steam rises in all directions from unseen vents and we reach the Hrafntinnusker mountain hut in the late afternoon.
Distance: 12km/7.5mi, ascent: 470m/1502ft
Day 2 : Continue On Foot To Álftavatn (4-5Hrs)
Location: Álftavatn
Accommodation Name: Álftavatn hut
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Today we head south into the canyon complex to the south of Hrafntinnusker. Descending into the gorges of Jökultungur, we come across steaming hot springs and mud pools. The route winds southwards, crossing old snow patches and climbing ridges where we have views across dark volcanic plains towards lake Álftavatn and the Mýrdalsjökull and Eyjafjallajökull glaciers. Crossing the southern edge of the Torfa-jökull Massif, we descend a long slope towards the black sands and palagonite ridges around Lake Álftavatn (Swan Lake). Arriving at the lake, one of the most beautiful locations on our route, we check in at the Álftavatn hut for our overnight stay.
Distance: 12km/7.5 mi, descent: 490m/1610ft
Day 3 : Trek To Emstrur Via The Black Deserts Of Maelifellssandur (6-7Hrs)
Location: Mýrdalsjökull
Accommodation Name: Botnar Mountain Hut
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
On day three there are several rivers to cross, as we head southwards and towards Mýrdalsjökull Icecap. Some of these glacial streams and rivers are bridged, but others need to be forded - a chilly experience for the feet so keep your river shoes handy. It can also be a good idea to wear your rain trousers to cut the cold. We descend to the green oasis of Hvanngil, where there is a mountain hut. We continue our walk, crossing another couple of rivers, to reach the surreal 5km-wide, black sand plain of Mælifellssandur, beneath the conical peak of Stórasúla. Heading now towards Hattfell, another ancient volcano, we reach the Emstrur region where farmers used to graze their sheep in summer. Before arriving at the Botnar Mountain Hut (our accommodation for the night) we visit the magnificent Markarfljót canyon, which is cut almost 200m into the rocks south of Hattfell.
Distance: 16km/10mi, descent: 40m/131ft
Day 4 : Through Valleys And Gullies To Thórsmörk (6-7Hrs)
Location: Þórsmörk
Accommodation Name: Þórsmörk hut
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
The first challenge today is to cross the bridge across Emstrur River. Having overcome this obstacle, we trek through the magnificent Markarfljót Canyon, which was carved out by thundering floods, caused by volcanic eruptions under the ice cap. The effects of erosion are visible at every step on this trek and nowhere more obvious than in the Þórsmörk Valley. For the first time on our trek, we enter a green and well-vegetated valley, which becomes more luxuriant the closer we get to Þórsmörk. The last part of the hike is through thick birch forest, where even the lava ridges are covered with scrubby trees and the lovely arctic flowers that bloom for a few weeks each summer. Þórsmörk means Þór's forest and it is not hard to see why this area should be considered to belong to a Norse God. It is out of this world! The valley is guarded on all sides by tremendous, fast-flowing rivers and steep glacier clad mountains. It is one of the most beautiful spots in Iceland and a weekend favourite for Reykjavik's hikers. Overnight in one of Þórsmörk's huts.
Distance: 17km/10.5mi, descent: 300m/985ft
Day 5 : Hike To Fimmvörðuháls Pass With Impressive Views, Return To Thórsmörk (6-7Hrs)
Location: Thórsmörk
Accommodation Name: Básar hut
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
We start the hike in the magic landscapes of Goðalönd – the abode of the Gods.
Nesting at the foot of two glaciers this is a wonderland of ridges and cliffs covered by a multitude of flowers and grasses, certainly fit for gods and humans alike. Even the elves have made themselves at home here. We continue up the hills leading to the pass of Fimmvörðuháls, walking along the Kattarhryggir ridges with views to the impressive mountain of Útigönguhöfði up to Morinsheiði heath. At the end of the Morinsheiði plateu we enjoy the view of the lava stream that flowed down from the Fimmvörðuháls volcano in 2010. As we gain height above Morinsheiði we come to the lava and then to the two craters Magni and Móði that erupted prior to the main Eyjafjallajökull crater. We head back to Þórsmörk with the magnificent view over the glaciers and this beautiful valley for our celebration barbeque dinner and night in Básar hut.
Distance: 20km/12.5mi, ascent/descent: 900m/2953ft
Day 6 : A Choice Of Hikes In Thórsmörk, Bus To Reykjavik, Trip Concludes (2-5Hrs)
Location: Þórsmörk
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
We spend the last day in Þórsmörk, a hiker’s paradise, where we have an abundance of choice between various paths. For example, we can visit the Sönghellir cave (“Song cave”), climb up the small mountain of Valahnúkur from where the magnificent views can be enjoyed, or hike into the beautifully carved canyon Stakkholtsgjá. This oasis between the mountains is also an ideal place to relax and just enjoy nature. We take the 3pm bus to return to Reykjavik, arriving in the evening (approx 7.30pm).
Distance: 5-10km/3-6mi
What's Included
-
Meals
5 breakfasts, 6 lunches, 5 dinners. Special diets can be catered for on request (e.g. vegan, vegetarian, gluten-free diet) however a supplement will apply.
-
Accommodation
5 nights in mountain huts on a multishare basis (dormitory style, sleeping bag needed).
-
Guided Tour
Experienced English speaking walking guide for 7 days.
-
Cooking Gear
Cooking gear is provided.
-
Luggage Transfer
Luggage transfer during the trek - soft duffel bag is preferable, max weight 18kg per person (excess luggage can be stored in luggage lockers in Reykjavik).
-
Transport
Transport from Reykjavik to Landmannalaugar and from Þórsmork to Reykjavik.
-
Transfers
Transfers by taxi or public transport if you need to skip a stage.
What's Not Included
-
International Travel
Travel to and from your home country to Reykjavik.
-
Pre- and Post-Tour Accommodation
Pre- and post-tour accommodation in Reykjavik.
-
Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is mandatory.
-
Sleeping Bag
Sleeping bag is not included but available for hire (must be pre-paid).
-
Showers in Huts
Showers in huts are payable locally.
-
Special Dietary Surcharge
Special dietary surcharge (vegan, vegetarian, gluten-free) - supplement applies.
-
Tips
Tips are not included.
-
Personal Items
Items of a personal nature are not included.
Grading
The trip involves daily walks of up to 7 hours per day. There are some hills but most are moderate, and a few steep sections which require care - but on average the trail is a descent. The trail is not paved, but paths have naturally formed over time. It can be a bit rocky in parts, but easily accessible to those used to hiking in uneven terrain. Participants will need to cross rivers during the trek, these are Grashagakvísl (day 2), Bratthálskvísl (day 3), Blafjallakvísl (day 3) Þrongá (day 4). The water levels can change from time to time due to seasonal conditions, your guide will advise on river crossing and help you to cross the river. Trekking poles can come in handy when wading rivers.
The accent is on keeping a steady pace to with time to stop and take photos. You will need a good level of fitness to participate fully in this adventure. Weather conditions may be harsh at times and you will need to be comfortable walking in such conditions. We suggest up to one hour of strenuous exercise 3-4 times a week. The total walking distance is up to 86km (53 miles), at altitudes between 150-1100m (490-3600 feet). The maximum ascent is 1000m (3280 feet).
What You Carry
As the walks are fully supported you only need to carry a daypack with your daily requirements including wet weather gear, lunch supplies, water bottle, warm top, phone etc
Mode of Transport
Transport includes a bus from Reykjavik to Landmannalaugar and from Þórsmork to Reykjavik, with additional transfers by taxi or public transport if needed.
Accommodation
Enjoy 5 nights in rustic mountain huts on a multishare basis, with dormitory-style sleeping arrangements. A sleeping bag is needed for your stay.
Check out our Q&As
-
What kind of accommodation is provided during the Laugavegur Trail Encompassed tour?
The tour includes 5 nights in mountain huts on a multishare basis, which means dormitory-style accommodation. You will need to bring a sleeping bag, although they are available for hire if pre-paid.
-
Are meals included in the tour package?
Yes, the tour includes 5 breakfasts, 6 lunches, and 5 dinners. Special diets can be catered for on request, such as vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free diets, but a supplement will apply. Please advise of any special dietary requirements at the time of booking.
-
What kind of support is available during the trek?
The tour is fully supported, meaning you only need to carry a daypack with your daily requirements. Luggage transfer is provided during the trek, and a soft duffel bag with a maximum weight of 18kg per person is preferable. Excess luggage can be stored in luggage lockers in Reykjavik.
-
What should I expect in terms of physical difficulty and fitness requirements?
The trip involves daily walks of up to 7 hours per day, with some moderate hills and a few steep sections. The trail is not paved and can be rocky in parts. Participants will need to cross rivers during the trek. A good level of fitness is required, and it is suggested to engage in up to one hour of strenuous exercise 3-4 times a week. The total walking distance is up to 86km (53 miles), at altitudes between 150-1100m (490-3600 feet).
-
What kind of gear do I need to bring for the trek?
You will need to carry a daypack with your daily requirements, including wet weather gear, lunch supplies, water bottle, warm top, and phone. Trekking poles can be handy for river crossings. A sleeping bag is also required, although it is available for hire if pre-paid.
-
Is travel insurance mandatory for this tour?
Yes, travel insurance is mandatory for this tour.
-
What happens if I need to skip a stage of the trek?
Transfers by taxi or public transport are available if you need to skip a stage of the trek.
-
Are there any additional costs I should be aware of?
Yes, there are additional costs for showers in huts (payable locally), special dietary surcharges, tips, and items of a personal nature. Travel to and from your home country to Reykjavik, pre- and post-tour accommodation in Reykjavik, and travel insurance are also not included.
-
How fit do I have to be?
Our adventures are first and foremost holidays and can be undertaken by anyone in a reasonable state of health and fitness - however, please carefully read our Terms & Conditions when booking and view the trip grading. We rank our trips according to our honest Trip Grading System. We recommend that you familiarise yourself with our grading system by reading our detailed trip notes (which you can order through this site) and to speak with us about the physical requirements of your chosen trip.
-
What happens if something goes wrong?
On our guided tours, you travel in small groups with a local multi-lingual guide whose knowledge of the terrain, flora, fauna and history of the region is exemplary. Our self guided tours give you the freedom to explore at your own pace - but they're not unsupported. We provide detailed route notes and maps and our local partners are on hand throughout the day in the unlikely event that something goes wrong. All we request is that you select a program that matches your level of fitness to ensure that you have a comfortable experience.
-
I'm travelling solo on a self-guided trip. Do I pay the single supplement or the single traveller surcharge?
Most of our self guided trips are priced based on twinshare. If you are travelling solo the single traveller surcharge will apply. The single supplement would apply if you were travelling in a party with others and you had chosen to book a single room. You would never pay a single traveller surcharge and a single supplement.
Reviews of this operator
1 Select your preferred date
Friday - Wednesday
Jun 20, 2025 - Jun 25, 2025Friday - Wednesday
Jun 27, 2025 - Jul 02, 2025Friday - Wednesday
Jul 04, 2025 - Jul 09, 2025Friday - Wednesday
Jul 11, 2025 - Jul 16, 2025Friday - Wednesday
Jul 18, 2025 - Jul 23, 2025Friday - Wednesday
Jul 25, 2025 - Jul 30, 2025Friday - Wednesday
Aug 01, 2025 - Aug 06, 2025Friday - Wednesday
Aug 08, 2025 - Aug 13, 2025Friday - Wednesday
Aug 15, 2025 - Aug 20, 2025Friday - Wednesday
Aug 22, 2025 - Aug 27, 2025Friday - Wednesday
Aug 29, 2025 - Sep 03, 2025Friday - Wednesday
Sep 05, 2025 - Sep 10, 2025What are travellers saying about Tourhub
Book with Confidence
-
Transfer as credit to Future Tours
UTracks allows you to transfer existing payments to a future tour to avoid cancellation fees if you can't travel and inform utracks, 70 days before departure.
-
Low Deposit
UTracks requires a minimum deposit of 250 GBP per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 70 days before departure.
-
Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of utracks charges.
Up to 70 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 69 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.
At 35 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.
Why book with tourhub?
Safe & Secure
Your money is held in a dedicated client account until you travel.
100% Guaranteed Refunds if your trip is cancelled.
The safest way to make overseas, multi-currency payments.
Guaranteed Best Value
Industry leading discounts, we won't be beaten on price.
No cancellation or amendment fees from tourhub.
(Operator terms may apply)
Expert Knowledge
Reliable & unbiased advice from travel experts.
Direct contact with the tour operator via our messaging service.
Inspiration & advice from a community of 6000+ real travellers, influencers & content creators.
Trusted Service
Official partners & licensed agents of 1000+ tour operators worldwide.
Don't just take our word for it...
"Tourhub: Friendliness, Professionalism & Integrity I would happily give tourhub a 6* review if I could..."