What you get on this adventure: An experienced, local hiking guide with extensive knowledge of the area 4-day backpacking adventure in Laugavegur Accommodation in private tents Sleeping pads Large assembly tents for dinner All meals from lunch on day 1 to lunch on day 4 Luggage transport What’s not included: Transportation to Iceland Sleeping bag — you can rent it upon checkout Showers (usually cost 900 ISK/$7) Guide gratuities — optional

How fit do I need to be?

In order to join this supported backpacking tour in Laugavegur, Iceland, you need to be able to hike for 4 full days, carrying just a daypack with things you’ll need throughout the day. Every day you will hike between 6 to 8 hours, which means great fitness is required. On top of that, volcanic terrain can be challenging. If you are looking for adventure and are up to the task of multiple days of full-day trekking, you’ll be rewarded immensely! In terms of daypack weight, you will only need to carry a smaller daypack with your lunch, water bottle, medication, sunglasses, river crossing shoes, rain gear, and other items or clothing you might need for the day. The rest of your luggage will be transported by the guide from camp to camp.

What do I need to bring?

Clothing & footwear Sturdy hiking boots (waterproof with good ankle support) River crossing shoes — walking sandals or old running shoes with a good grip are a good choice, along with a pair of warm socks or neoprene socks Jacket with a hood (windproof, waterproof and breathable, e.g. Gore-Tex) Puffy jacket — optional Warm, down jacket Light wool or fleece sweater Long sleeve shirts T-shirts (avoid cotton) Soft-shell hiking trousers (strong and light material that dries quickly) Rain pants (windproof, waterproof and breathable) Full rain gear (poncho is not useful because of wind) Sunhat Wool hat Wool or synthetic gloves (2 pairs of different thickness) Wool or synthetic thermal underwear Wool or synthetic socks Change of clothes and comfortable shoes for the huts Swimwear Gaiters — optional but recommended Other gear and personal items Waterproof duffel bag for the transport of your overnight gear (up to 20 kg) Daypack (around a 25-40L bag) Sleeping bag Travel pillow Small thermal mat to sit on — optional but recommended Hiking poles — optional but recommended Quick dry, lightweight towel Water bottle or hydration bladder (2L capacity) Lunch box Pocket knife Headlamp or flashlight Sunglasses Toiletries (sunscreen, hand sanitizer, bug spray, toilet paper, etc.) Personal medication Earplugs Portable power bank Dry-bags for electronics and extra clothing Camera — optional but recommended Aperitif or other heart-warming spirits (liquor laws in Iceland prohibit the sale of alcohol) — optional Dress comfortably and for the weather in clothes you can move in. Iceland is home to infamously unpredictable weather, so it’s best to be prepared with the right gear. It is recommended to dress in layers. 3 or 4 upper layers are highly recommended such as a light T-shirt (preferably wool) next to the skin, then a fleece or heavy wool garment, topped off with a waterproof windbreaker. There is a limit of 1 piece of luggage per participant that can weigh up to 20 kg (+your daypack). Since there is limited space on the luggage trailer, try to pack light out of consideration for other passengers and use a waterproof duffel bag which is easier to store. If you have extra luggage that you would like to leave, we recommend storing luggage at the BSI Bus terminal (fees apply) or another luggage storage space in Reykjavik.

Meals will be prepared by all participants, guides, and the team—make food and friends at the same time! Special dietary supplements, such as vegetarian, pescatarian, vegan, gluten-free, or other supplements, can be ordered at some extra cost. It is suggested that you purchase the special food extra. This will help your guides in supplying the best meals possible for everyone. If you have any special dietary requirements, please let us know prior to booking to make arrangements. Bring a water bottle that you can then fill with the tap water at the huts/campsites. Iceland’s water is perfectly safe to drink. There are also several streams along where people tend to get more water from!

Group sizes and age requirements

Group sizes and prices: For this backpacking tour in Laugavegur, the maximum number of people is 14 with one guide. Backpacking in Laugavegur, Iceland can be arranged for larger groups. Contact us to make arrangements. Min. age requirements: If you are older than 18, you’re good to go. Minors older than 14 may join the hike, but must be in the presence of a parent or legal guardian. If your group has hikers under the age of 18, contact us prior to booking to make arrangements.

Getting there and meeting location

To get to this Laugavegur Trail tour, most people fly into Keflavík International Airport (KEF). From there, it’s best to hop on a shuttle to Reykjavik, or you can take a taxi. It takes about 45 minutes to reach Reykjavik. It is recommended to arrive at least one day before the tour. If you’re flying in from the U.S. or will be landing early (4-6:30 am), you should be able to join the tour, but some risks would follow (i.e if the flight gets delayed) and could, therefore, miss out on the tour. This is, therefore, not recommended! Accommodation for the night prior to the tour is at your arrangement. The meeting location depends on the tour and which time you’re meeting with your guides. Options include the Reykjavik City Hall, Hallgrimskirkja, or the Reykjavik Campsite. Departure time is between 7 and 7:30 am at these stations. After joining your guides, a scenic 4-hour drive is the only thing separating you from your hiking adventure!

Safety measures and insurance

We highly recommend that you cover all your bases with both medical and travel protection . To make your booking and traveling experience as carefree as possible , simply choose Redpoint—the official 57hours insurance partner ! Redpoint tailors their protection packages for adventure travel, offering a comprehensive travel program, even in remote locations. Trip cancellation, natural disasters, pandemic coverage, medical evacuation, primary medical expenses—regardless of the travel interruption that may happen, Redpoint will have you covered. Once your booking is confirmed and your trip is paid in full, you will be offered to purchase Redpoint’s protection. If you need any help or require more information, let us know and we will be happy to help!

On recent volcanic activity in Iceland

Iceland, the “Land of Fire and Ice”, has forever lived with volcanic activity. Minor and major eruptions have been occurring every few years since the island was formed. Some of Iceland’s appeal, aside from sheer natural beauty, surely stems from this very fact. However, every new eruption, such as the recent Reykjanes Peninsula fissure, will make some travelers, tourists, and adventurers uneasy, especially given the fact that sensationalist media is not immune to misinformation and speculation. Since we work with a number of expert local guides in Iceland, we thought we’d share their input and fill you in on what’s actually going on. First of all, air traffic has not been affected. Flights to and from Keflavík International Airport and Reykjavík Domestic Airport are operating as they always do. Second, the effects of volcanic activity have been localized, with some roads closed, and all services in Iceland are operating as usual. Reykjavik, the capital, is around 40 km (25 miles) away from the volcanic fissure, and life there is as normal as ever. And third, trips offered by 57hours are taking place much further away, and are thereby even less likely to be affected by the volcanic activity, being perfectly safe for adventurers. Naturally, the authorities (and guides) are monitoring the situation and doing everything possible to keep both local residents and visitors safe and well informed. In case you have any additional questions or dilemmas, feel free to get in touch with either your guide or 57hours. For more information, please visit Volcanic activity and earthquakes in Reykjanes or Visit Iceland site . Or watch the video with Dr. Matthew Roberts from the Icelandic Meteorological Office explaining the recent volcanic activities in Iceland.

Laugavegur | Iceland

4-Day Laugavegur Trail Tent-Based Tour

5.00 ()

Hikers traversing the river crossing in Iceland.

You can enjoy camping in Laugavegur, either on the public or park areas.

Landmannalaugar mountain, Laugavegur trek

Hiking Iceland’s Famous Laugavegur Trail

Markarfljótsgljúfur—a stunning canyon fashioned by a glacial river.

Hikers admiring the view of dark Thorsmork and its meandering rivers

vibrant Reykjafjöll mountains and the Jökultungur area whose colors contrast dramatically with the soft pale sand-toned peaks around them

Two hikers looking at the scenery of Iceland

As you get closer to Thorsmork, the landscapes around you will change—soon you’ll be surrounded by a dense birch forest for which Thorsmork is famous for.

Seljalandsfoss waterfall and a bridge in front of it

From $1,620 ()

Duration

4 days

Season

July and August

Accommodation

Tents

Book a call

Intro
Itinerary
Brochure
Guides
Reviews
Things to know

If somebody would just describe Laugavegur to you, you’d be sure it’s a made-up place. But it’s not. National Geographic praised it as one of the world’s greatest hikes—and you’ll find out why by joining this supported, 4-day backpacking trip along the testing, 34-mile trail. Electric hues tinting the Landmannalaugar mountains—your starting point—will win you over as soon as you set foot in the valley. And with each new day, you’ll discover another one of Earth’s peculiarities: bubbling hot springs, black sand deserts, glistening glaciers, colossal volcanoes, or a surprisingly lush oasis of Thorsmork, among many, many other ones. Explore this rugged trail and blend into the wilderness by pitching your tent under the stars each night. Read more about hiking the Laugavegur Trail by Saga Líf, a local Iceland hiking guide and founder of Viking Women Tours.

Adventure highlights

Surreal views all day long

Lose count of all the ever-changing landscapes you’ll be passing through
Challenging hike

By fording rivers and crossing rough terrain, the trail makes you work just a bit harder to discover its riches
Camp under the stars

Supported backpacking adventure—sleep under the starry sky, but without the hassle of carrying your gear

Download itinerary

Itinerary

Meet your guide and your team in Reykjavik. From there, drive 3 hours along the South Coast to Landmannalaugar. You’ll pass by Hekla, the most active volcano in Iceland, which has erupted every 10-15 years throughout the last century. Once you reach Landmannalaugar, the starting point of the Laugavegur Trail, make your way through the Laugahraun lava field and Vondugil canyon. Rhyolite mountains, most notably Mt. Brennisteinsalda, will offer incredibly vibrant colors. On your way back to the campsite, you’ll see Graenagil gorge and climb up the Blahnukur Volcano if time allows. Get to know each other in the evening while enjoying your delicious dinner.

Meals: Lunch and dinner
Distance: 8 km / 5 miles
Elevation gain: 470 m / 1,540 ft
Hiking: 4 hours
After a hearty breakfast, the first stop of the day is the pitch-black obsidian desert Hrafntinnusker, after which you’ll reach Reykjafjoll rhyolite mountains and the Jokultungur area. Geothermal activity has turned these craggy gullies into vivid yellows and reds, which dramatically contrast pale sandy hues around them. The top of Jokultungur is a great place to enjoy views of the entire Fjallabak area and Alftavatn lake (Swan Lake), where you’ll be spending the night. To reach your campsite, you must ford a river, which is a fantastic experience for hikers.

Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
Distance: 24 km / 15 miles
Elevation gain: 900 m / 2,952 ft
Hiking: 7-8 hours
Begin by wading across another stream as you proceed onto Maelifellssandur and the volcano country. Pass by Storasula and Hattafell volcanoes on your way to Emstrur. Provided there’s good visibility, you’ll have a spectacular view of two very famous volcano mountain glaciers Myrdalsjokull and Eyjafjallajokull, with the latter one disrupting air traffic in 2010 and with the former one shrouding the much-feared Katla under its ice cap. On your way to Botnar, a green oasis in the midst of a black sand desert, you’ll see Markarfljotsgljufur, a 200-meter deep canyon, carved by a glacial river. Your campsite is in that area.

Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
Distance: 15 km / 9.5 miles
Elevation loss: 40 m / 130 ft
Hiking: 6-7 hours
After your final breakfast, leave the Emstrur area and continue along to Thorsmork. As you go through the Almenningar, a gorge by Mt. Einhyrningur (the Unicorn Mountain), you’ll still have a great view of the glaciers as you advance towards Thorsmork. As you get closer to it, the landscape and nature change. And once you reach it, you’ll see the characteristic dense birch forest for which Thorsmork is famous. Celebrate your completion of the Laugavegur Trail! On the way back to Reykjavik, you’ll get a glimpse of the powerful waterfall Seljalandsfoss. Arrive back in Reykjavik at around 9:30 p.m., drop-off is at the BSI bus stop in town.

Meals: Breakfast and lunch
Distance: 15 km / 9.5 miles
Elevation loss: 300 m / 985 ft
Hiking: 6-7 hours

4-Day Laugavegur Trail Tent-Based Tour

Adventure Brochure

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If you have questions or need help with planning a trip, schedule a call with one of our adventure experts.

Meet your guide

5.00

Arctic Adventures

Certified Guides

The Arctic Adventures family consists of adventurous and highly qualified people from all over the world. Some people are passionate river rafters or mountain climbers, while others really thrive on numbers and calculations. There is one thing, though, which they all have in common: a tremendous love and passion for outdoor adventures and total respect for nature.

5.00 (6 reviews)

michael kelly

Love Volpi: fearless leader, great outdoorsman, incredible chef!, great person.

Hayley M (source: Tripadvisor)

We did the Laugavegur tour with Caroline as our guide. I was supposed to be doing this tour with a friend and last minute they couldn’t not attend so I was a bit anxious about going alone with a group. Caroline was great, I immediately felt at ease and the group itself were super nice. The scenery was absolutely stunning. Highly recommend.

Corinne D (source: Tripadvisor)

The views. The people. The experience. Everything was magical. A great place to step out of your comfort zone and learn more about yourself. You walk A lot, and every step is different. Every day is different, but it’s also the same : breathtaking views. Our guide, Jono, was sensational. And he is an AMAZING COOK. I didn’t think it was possible to eat so well in the middle of a sand desert in the artic. Seriously, if you are looking for an adventure of a life time this is the one.

marciacarlsonpack (source: Tripadvisor)

This journey of a lifetime in the land of fire & ice was the fodder of fairytales! There is a mystery & magic in the Icelandic highlands which allows one to be and to see oneself, and it profoundly changes you from the inside out. Tough trek? Yes. But it was amazing and astounding as I proved myself to myself with every step. Exhilarating and life changing in ways only those on the alpine trek can know. I am eternal grateful to Jono, our most capable guide, for keeping us safe, adding his unique sense of wonder to the trek, and for the gourmet meals he prepared. There is not a better man to be found. To my fellow trekkers, yes, we are family ~ all of us, bound by a knowing that happened up there. If you are looking for a superb, top of the world, adventure, don’t delay! Arctic Adventures & Jono will inspire you to do the greatest of things! It is with deep gratitude, that this “senior citizen” leaves such a rave review.

Dina T (source: Tripadvisor)

Did the Laugavegur Trek with this company. As a solo traveler wasn’t sure what to expect but it was amazing! I was fortunate to experience this hike with a fantastic group of people and our hiking guide was outstanding; she was always positive and cheery, and was very knowledgeable about the geography along the trail. The meals provided along the trek were better than I would have ever expected and the back country huts were quite clean and comfortable. I would definitely book with this company again.

JASON GUINEY

Great guide! Very knowledgeable and friendly and kept a good pace that everyone could achieve! Made the experience very enjoyable

Loved the hike.

Things to know

What you get on this adventure:
- - An experienced, local hiking guide with extensive knowledge of the area
  - 4-day backpacking adventure in Laugavegur
  - Accommodation in private tents
  - Sleeping pads
  - Large assembly tents for dinner
  - All meals from lunch on day 1 to lunch on day 4
  - Luggage transport
What’s not included:
- - Transportation to Iceland
  - Sleeping bag — you can rent it upon checkout
  - Showers (usually cost 900 ISK/$7)
  - Guide gratuities — optional
In order to join this supported backpacking tour in Laugavegur, Iceland, you need to be able to hike for 4 full days, carrying just a daypack with things you’ll need throughout the day. Every day you will hike between 6 to 8 hours, which means great fitness is required. On top of that, volcanic terrain can be challenging. If you are looking for adventure and are up to the task of multiple days of full-day trekking, you’ll be rewarded immensely!

In terms of daypack weight, you will only need to carry a smaller daypack with your lunch, water bottle, medication, sunglasses, river crossing shoes, rain gear, and other items or clothing you might need for the day. The rest of your luggage will be transported by the guide from camp to camp.
Clothing & footwear
- - Sturdy hiking boots (waterproof with good ankle support)
  - River crossing shoes — walking sandals or old running shoes with a good grip are a good choice, along with a pair of warm socks or neoprene socks
  - Jacket with a hood (windproof, waterproof and breathable, e.g. Gore-Tex)
  - Puffy jacket — optional
  - Warm, down jacket
  - Light wool or fleece sweater
  - Long sleeve shirts
  - T-shirts (avoid cotton)
  - Soft-shell hiking trousers (strong and light material that dries quickly)
  - Rain pants (windproof, waterproof and breathable)
  - Full rain gear (poncho is not useful because of wind)
  - Sunhat
  - Wool hat
  - Wool or synthetic gloves (2 pairs of different thickness)
  - Wool or synthetic thermal underwear
  - Wool or synthetic socks
  - Change of clothes and comfortable shoes for the huts
  - Swimwear
  - Gaiters — optional but recommended
Other gear and personal items
- - Waterproof duffel bag for the transport of your overnight gear (up to 20 kg)
  - Daypack (around a 25-40L bag)
  - Sleeping bag
  - Travel pillow
  - Small thermal mat to sit on — optional but recommended
  - Hiking poles — optional but recommended
  - Quick dry, lightweight towel
  - Water bottle or hydration bladder (2L capacity)
  - Lunch box
  - Pocket knife
  - Headlamp or flashlight
  - Sunglasses
  - Toiletries (sunscreen, hand sanitizer, bug spray, toilet paper, etc.)
  - Personal medication
  - Earplugs
  - Portable power bank
  - Dry-bags for electronics and extra clothing
  - Camera — optional but recommended
  - Aperitif or other heart-warming spirits (liquor laws in Iceland prohibit the sale of alcohol) — optional
Dress comfortably and for the weather in clothes you can move in. Iceland is home to infamously unpredictable weather, so it’s best to be prepared with the right gear. It is recommended to dress in layers. 3 or 4 upper layers are highly recommended such as a light T-shirt (preferably wool) next to the skin, then a fleece or heavy wool garment, topped off with a waterproof windbreaker.

There is a limit of 1 piece of luggage per participant that can weigh up to 20 kg (+your daypack). Since there is limited space on the luggage trailer, try to pack light out of consideration for other passengers and use a waterproof duffel bag which is easier to store. If you have extra luggage that you would like to leave, we recommend storing luggage at the BSI Bus terminal (fees apply) or another luggage storage space in Reykjavik.
Meals will be prepared by all participants, guides, and the team—make food and friends at the same time!

Special dietary supplements, such as vegetarian, pescatarian, vegan, gluten-free, or other supplements, can be ordered at some extra cost. It is suggested that you purchase the special food extra. This will help your guides in supplying the best meals possible for everyone. If you have any special dietary requirements, please let us know prior to booking to make arrangements.

Bring a water bottle that you can then fill with the tap water at the huts/campsites. Iceland’s water is perfectly safe to drink. There are also several streams along where people tend to get more water from!
Group sizes and prices:
- - For this backpacking tour in Laugavegur, the maximum number of people is 14 with one guide.
Backpacking in Laugavegur, Iceland can be arranged for larger groups. Contact us to make arrangements.

Min. age requirements:
- - If you are older than 18, you’re good to go.
  - Minors older than 14 may join the hike, but must be in the presence of a parent or legal guardian.
If your group has hikers under the age of 18, contact us prior to booking to make arrangements.
To get to this Laugavegur Trail tour, most people fly into Keflavík International Airport (KEF). From there, it’s best to hop on a shuttle to Reykjavik, or you can take a taxi. It takes about 45 minutes to reach Reykjavik.

It is recommended to arrive at least one day before the tour. If you’re flying in from the U.S. or will be landing early (4-6:30 am), you should be able to join the tour, but some risks would follow (i.e if the flight gets delayed) and could, therefore, miss out on the tour. This is, therefore, not recommended! Accommodation for the night prior to the tour is at your arrangement.

The meeting location depends on the tour and which time you’re meeting with your guides. Options include the Reykjavik City Hall, Hallgrimskirkja, or the Reykjavik Campsite. Departure time is between 7 and 7:30 am at these stations. After joining your guides, a scenic 4-hour drive is the only thing separating you from your hiking adventure!
We highly recommend that you cover all your bases with both medical and travel protection. To make your booking and traveling experience as carefree as possible, simply choose Redpoint—the official 57hours insurance partner!

Redpoint tailors their protection packages for adventure travel, offering a comprehensive travel program, even in remote locations. Trip cancellation, natural disasters, pandemic coverage, medical evacuation, primary medical expenses—regardless of the travel interruption that may happen, Redpoint will have you covered.

Once your booking is confirmed and your trip is paid in full, you will be offered to purchase Redpoint’s protection. If you need any help or require more information, let us know and we will be happy to help!
Iceland, the “Land of Fire and Ice”, has forever lived with volcanic activity. Minor and major eruptions have been occurring every few years since the island was formed. Some of Iceland’s appeal, aside from sheer natural beauty, surely stems from this very fact.

However, every new eruption, such as the recent Reykjanes Peninsula fissure, will make some travelers, tourists, and adventurers uneasy, especially given the fact that sensationalist media is not immune to misinformation and speculation.

Since we work with a number of expert local guides in Iceland, we thought we’d share their input and fill you in on what’s actually going on.
- - First of all, air traffic has not been affected. Flights to and from Keflavík International Airport and Reykjavík Domestic Airport are operating as they always do.
  - Second, the effects of volcanic activity have been localized, with some roads closed, and all services in Iceland are operating as usual. Reykjavik, the capital, is around 40 km (25 miles) away from the volcanic fissure, and life there is as normal as ever.
  - And third, trips offered by 57hours are taking place much further away, and are thereby even less likely to be affected by the volcanic activity, being perfectly safe for adventurers. Naturally, the authorities (and guides) are monitoring the situation and doing everything possible to keep both local residents and visitors safe and well informed.
In case you have any additional questions or dilemmas, feel free to get in touch with either your guide or 57hours. For more information, please visit Volcanic activity and earthquakes in Reykjanes or Visit Iceland site. Or watch the video with Dr. Matthew Roberts from the Icelandic Meteorological Office explaining the recent volcanic activities in Iceland.
Deposits

You can secure one of the set dates with a 30% deposit upon booking. The remaining 70% of the trip price is to be paid 90 days prior to departure, at the latest.

Secure your early bird spot with a 10% deposit! This tour gets sold out very quickly, but with early-bird booking, you will be the first one to know about any new upcoming dates. Pick your preferred dates without the risk of your bucket list adventure selling out!
- - Only 10% of the total amount should be paid as a deposit upon booking. This deposit is non-refundable, but can be transferred to another 57hours adventure anytime in case the dates don’t suit you.
  - Once the dates are set, you can confirm your booking by paying another 20% of the total amount.
  - The final balance is due 3 months (90 days) prior to departure.
Cancellations

Booking fees are non-refundable in all cases. During checkout, however, you can choose one of 57hours’ flexibility options:

Basic
- - In case of cancellation within 48 hours after booking, the amount paid is fully refundable.
  - For cancellations 60 or more days before the trip, you are eligible for a 70% refund of the trip price.
  - For cancellations 0-59 days before the trip, there is no refund.
Flexible
- - In case of cancellation within 48 hours after booking, the amount paid is fully refundable.
  - For cancellations 60 or more days before the trip, you are eligible for a full refund of the trip price.
  - For cancellations 30-59 days before the trip, you are eligible for a 50% refund of the trip price.
  - For cancellations 0-29 days before the trip, there is no refund.
Super Flexible
- - In case of cancellation within 48 hours after booking, the amount paid is fully refundable.
  - For cancellations 30 or more days before the trip, you are eligible for a full refund of the trip price.
  - For cancellations 0-29 days before the trip, you are eligible for a 50% refund of the trip price.
57hours partners with Redpoint Travel Protection, offering you a fully integrated program with a single point of contact for all your needs, from emergency services to travel assistance and protection claims. We highly recommend purchasing a comprehensive protection policy from Redpoint, which will protect you both before and during your travels. Before your departure, your investment is protected by the trip cancellation benefit. Once you depart, your policy provides coverage for trip interruption, medical assistance and rescue, baggage loss, trip delay, and more. Once you complete booking with 57hours, we'll create bespoke quote for you (and your group), making sure you're fully protected for the adventure ahead.