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Hike the Laugavegur Trail and the South Coast of Iceland

Itinerary
8-Day South Coast Tour
Guide(s)
Arctic Adventures
Trip options

Booking for a group?
Reserve spots for 5 or more people, and get $57 off for each

Add-ons

Accommodation options

You can share a room with another hiker or reserve a single room for an additional fee. If you are traveling with other hikers and would like to share a room with them, please leave us their names in the notes at the end of this page.

Equipment rentals

Special dietary requirements

Let us know if you have allergies, gluten intolerance or other dietary requirements (pescatarian, vegetarian, vegan). Your guide can accommodate most diets for an additional fee. Please give us more information regarding your dietary requirements by leaving a note at the end of this page.

Transportation

The bus can pick you up in one of the locations in Reykjavik between 7.00 and 7.30 am or outside of Reykjavik around 8.15 or 9.00 am, depending on your chosen pick-up point.
*Note that it can take up to 30 minutes before the bus departs the given locations.

If you’re renting any gear, please let us know the sizes you usually wear so we can reserve it for you.

Choose cancellation flexibility option

Things come up, and sometimes plans need to be changed. Check out our cancellation flexibility options.
57hours flexibility options
Deposits

When booking a trip, you can either pay for it in full or reserve your spot with a 30% deposit. The remaining 70% of the trip price is to be paid 90 days prior to departure, at the latest.

Cancellations

After 48 hours, booking fees are non-refundable in all cases. 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.
  • Booking fees are non-refundable after 48 hours grace period.
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.
  • Booking fees are non-refundable after 48 hours grace period.
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.
  • Booking fees are non-refundable after 48 hours grace period.
Hike the Laugavegur Trail and the South Coast of Iceland
Itinerary
8-Day South Coast Tour
People
1 Person
Date(s)
--
Duration
8 day
Guide(s)
Arctic Adventures
Reserve deposit (30%) $0
Second Payment Amount: $0

    • Be ready for an early pick-up and leave civilization for the magnificent Highlands, Iceland’s largest uninhabited wilderness. The drive to Landmannalaugar, the starting point of the hike, will take 3-4 hours. Pass by the magnificent volcano Hekla, the most active volcano in Iceland, and arrive in Landmannalaugar. Leave your bus behind and set foot onto the famous Laugavegur Trail Grab a quick lunch and begin your six-day trek across the Highlands. Hike through the Laugahraun lava field and Vondugil canyon and admire the incredibly vibrant colors of the rhyolite mountains this country is famous for. As you approach your accommodation at Landmannalaugar, you will see the Graenagil gorge and climb up to Blahnukur Volcano if time allows.

      Hiking distance: 8 km / 4.9 mi
      Walking time: 4-5 hours
      Ascent: 470 m / 1,540 ft
      Included meals: Lunch, dinner
      Accommodation: Mountain hut in Landmannalaugar

       

      A sign showing directions for Iceland's most famous trails and locations

    • Start off your second day with a nutritious breakfast and descent from the snowy peaks into a green valley. En route, pass the colorful mountains and the Jökultungur area where the geothermal activity contrasts with the sandy hues and green meadows of the valley. Hike to the Fjallabak area and Álftavatn Lake, where you will be spending the night. Before reaching your accommodation, you will have to cross a river on foot—a very exciting experience for everyone! The water is chilly, but not too deep (up to the knee or thigh). Today’s hut will be bigger than the first, with a spacious kitchen and dining area. After a warm dinner, walk around the area if the weather is good and get some well deserved rest.

      Hiking distance: 24 km / 14.9 mi
      Walking time: 4-5 hours
      Descent: 490 m / 1,610 ft
      Included meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
      Accommodation: Mountain hut in Álftavatn

       

      A group of hikers walking in line through Icelandic wilderness

    • After an energizing breakfast, start your day by wading across another stream. The next part of the trail is quite flat and easy. Pass by the incredibly scenic Stórasúla and Hattafell volcanoes whose hills are covered by moss, making them stand out from the surrounding black desert. On your way to the next destination, Emstrur, you’ll get outstanding vistas of the nearby volcano glaciers, Eyjafjallajökull and Mýrdalsjökull. As you approach the hut, a green oasis unfolds in the midst of the black sand desert on the side of a stunning 200-meter (656 ft) deep glacier river canyon. Tonight’s hut is located by the side of a small stream, in an idyllic location.

      Hiking distance: 15 km / 9.5 mi
      Walking time: 6-7 hours
      Descent: 40 m / 130 ft
      Included meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
      Accommodation: Mountain hut in Emstrur

       

      On your way, you will pass by mossy green volcanoes whose craters make for great photo ops.

    • On the fourth day, hike the last leg of the Laugavegur trail. Walk along the mighty Almenningar Gorge of and pass by Mount Einhyrningur (also known as the Unicorn Mountain). As you continue along the trail, the vegetation will start to change and bushes and small trees will begin to appear here and there until you find yourself surrounded by a birch forest, reaching Thorsmörk Valley. Tonight’s accommodation will be in a hut surrounded by mossy slopes beneath the Eyjafjallajökull and Mýrdalsjökull Glaciers.

      Hiking distance: 15 km / 9.5 mi
      Walking time: 6-7 hours
      Descent: 300 m / 985 ft
      Included meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
      Accommodation: Mountain hut in Thorsmörk

       

      Dramatic greens, whites and blacks combine into spectacular scenery as you enter Thorsmork

    • Today you’ll take on the most demanding and the most scenic leg of the trek, the magnificent Fimmvörðuháls Pass. The path leads from the valley along a steep path up to a broad plateau. As you climb higher, you might be able to see all of the scraggy mountain ranges, snowy peaks, and glaciers surrounding you. Visit the two new volcanic craters, Magni and Móði, which were formed during the Eyjafjallajökull eruption in 2010. After reaching the peaks of the craters, take the same path to return to Thórsmörk. Congratulate each other for completing the Laugavegur and Fimmvörduháls hike!

      Hiking distance: 16 km / 10 mi
      Walking time: 7-8 hours
      Ascent: 800 m / 2,600 ft
      Included meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
      Accommodation: Mountain hut in Thorsmörk

       

      The most demanding and the most scenic leg of the trek is the magnificent Fimmvörðuháls Pass. The path leads from the valley along a steep path up to a broad plateau.

    • On the final day in the Icelandic wilderness, your group and guide will decide the itinerary for the day! You can either explore the area of the Katla and Eyjafjallajokull volcanoes located nearby or hike up the Valahnukur Mountain—the most spectacular viewpoint overlooking the Thorsmork Valley. It is also possible to simply stay in Thorsmork and relax after miles of hiking. Leave the Highlands behind, return to civilization and spend the night in a country hotel in Hella.

      Included meals: Breakfast
      Accommodation: Country hotel in Hella

       

      A hiker standing on mountain Valahnukur viewpoint among Icelandic Highlands in summer at Thorsmork, Iceland

    • After the exhausting multi-day trek, you will finally have enough time to sleep in. You will be picked up around 9:30 am and embark on a tour of Iceland’s spectacular South Coast. Visit the two most famous waterfalls in Iceland, Skógafoss, and Seljalandsfoss, both approximately 60 m (196 ft) high. As your adventure comes to an end, strap on crampons and climb up a glacier! Explore the glacier’s surreal formations, deep crevasses and ice sculptures. A professional glacier guide will be with you and tell you about the history and geology of the area as well as the features of glaciers in general. After a long day, head back to Reykjavík where you will spend the night at a hotel.

      Included meals: Breakfast
      Accommodation: Hotel in Reykjavík

       

      Explore the glacier’s surreal formations, deep crevasses and ice sculptures.

    • On the final day, you will explore the natural attractions of the famous Golden Circle. Your first stop will be the Thingvellir National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Thingvellir was the location of the first parliament in the world which was founded around 930 AD. Next stop is a geothermal area. The main attraction of the site is Strokkur Geyser, which is famous for spouting water up to 40 m (130 ft). Stop by the gigantic waterfall Gullfoss and finally, head to a geothermal hot pool called the Secret Lagoon. Don’t forget your bathing suit and relax in the warm and therapeutic water. Head back to Reykjavík where your adventure ends.

      Included meals: Breakfast

       

      Colorful scenery in Thingvellir National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site

    • Here’s what’s included:

        • An experienced, local, English-speaking guide with extensive knowledge of the area
        • 4 to 8 days of hiking and sightseeing along the Laugavegur Trail and South Coast
        • Accommodation in mountain huts and hotels as indicated in the itinerary
        • Most meals during the trek, as indicated in the itinerary
        • Kitchen and cooking equipment
        • Transport at the beginning and end of the trek
        • All required safety equipment
        • Luggage transfer during the trek

      What’s not included:

        • Transportation to and from Iceland
        • Accommodation before and after the tour
        • Meals not indicated in the itinerary
        • Sleeping bag and personal hiking equipment (can be rented)
        • Showers in huts (payable on-site, approx. $3.50 per shower)
        • Travel and medical insurance — optional
        • Guide gratuities — optional

    • You need to be able to hike for full days, carrying a daypack full of your gear which means you should be physically very fit. Each day you will hike between three and eight hours. On top of that, volcanic terrain can be challenging. If you are looking for adventure and up to the task of multiple days of full-day trekking, you’ll be rewarded immensely!

      In terms of backpack 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 hut to hut.

      There are no requirements for the glacier walk. Your guide will teach you the basics of glacier walking, show you how to use the equipment, and lead you safely through the spectacular scenery at a relatively slow pace.

      Please check your chosen itinerary to learn about day-by-day distances,

    • Here’s a list of the equipment you need to bring:

        • A duffel bag for the transport of your overnight gear (up to 20 kg)
        • Daypack (around a 25-40L bag)
        • Sleeping bag — no specific temperature rating as the mountain huts are heated
        • Travel pillow
        • Small thermal mat to sit on — optional but recommended
        • Hiking poles — optional but recommended
        • Gaiters — optional but recommended
        • Sunhat
        • Wool hat
        • Wool or synthetic gloves (2 pairs of different thickness)
        • 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)
        • Wool or synthetic thermal underwear
        • Wool or synthetic socks
        • 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
        • Gaiters — optional but recommended
        • Change of clothes and comfortable shoes for the huts
        • Quick dry, lightweight towel 
        • Swimwear for the hot geothermal pool in Landmannalaugar
        • 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.

      When glacier hiking, you will be provided with an ice axe, crampons, harness and helmet. This will help you to complete the tour safely. The minimum shoe size to attach crampons is EU 35.

    • 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!

    • During the Laugavegur tour, you’ll experience the magic of living in rustic mountain huts scattered along the trail. All of the mountain huts are heated, some have electricity and some have hot water. Showers are found in every hut and cost 500 ISK per use. Huts have bunk rooms with single and twin beds. Participants have to be prepared to share a bunk with other travelers from the group. There are no power outlets in the huts so please bring a power bank.

      During the 8-day South Coast tour, you will also stay at a local hotel for 2 nights.

      It is recommended to arrive at least one day before the tour. If you’re flying in from the US 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. Accommodations in Reykjavík are not included in the price in case you arrive early before the trip or if you’re staying after your trip.

    • Groups on these hiking tours usually consist of 6-16 hikers. 

      Anyone over the age of 18 can join these day-hiking tours. Teens as young as 14 can join on a case-by-case basis, accompanied by a parent or legal guardian.

      If you plan to hike with anyone under the age of 18, please contact us prior to booking to make arrangements.

    • If you happen to be a solo traveler, you’re more than welcome to join these tours of Iceland’s south coast! There are no supplements for solo travelers, as they’ll share a room. In case the tour includes hotel accommodation, single room is possible according to availability for an added fee.

    • To tour the south coast of Iceland, most people fly into Keflavík International Airport (KEF). From there, you can rent a car, take a taxi or hop on a bus. 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 US 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. 

      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. 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 occurred 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:
      https://safetravel.is/
      https://www.visiticeland.com/article/volcano-info

      Or watch the video with Dr. Matthew Roberts from the Icelandic Meteorological Office explaining the recent volcanic activities in Iceland.

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