After you meet your guides at the BSI central bus terminal in Reykjavík, they’ll transport you across highland tracks to Mt. Sveinstindur, passing lake Langisjór, one of Iceland’s most beautiful lakes. After ascending the peak and taking in the views of the mountains and the nearby Vatnajökull glacier, descend to a traditional hut on the other side. You’ll spend the night at this rustic hut.
Distance: 4 miles (6 km)
Altitude change: 1,574 ft (480 m)

Follow the rapids and waterfalls of the Skaftá river to the small, but imposing Hvanngil canyon. Admire the volcanic landscape, with black lava, green moss, and a variety of strange rock formations. Arrive at the magical Skælingar area, an ancient lava forest near Skaftá’s riverbed. Sleep in a rustic hut, without showers, but with an outhouse.
Distance: 10-11 miles (16-18 km)
Walking time: 6 – 8 hours
Altitude change: 820 ft (250 m)

The day’s hike leads you to Eldgjá, the Canyon of Fire. Descend the canyon slowly, enjoying the remarkable volcanic environments, before concluding the day with a hike to the nearby Hólaskjól, where you will spend the night. The huts in Hólaskjól are comfortable, with toilets and showers. At this point, you will have completed the first section of the Volcanic Trails.
Distance: 11 miles (18km)
Walking time: 6-8 hours
Altitude change: 1,150 ft (350 m)

Start the second part of the trail with a hike to the lakes of Álftavötn. Hike the green hills following the Syðri Ófæra river. At Álftavötn, spend the night in a traditional hut. The nights here are serene, and it’s an excellent place to recharge for the hikes to come. The hut is rustic, with an outhouse and no showers.
Distance: 4-6 miles ( 7-10 km)
Walking time: 5-6 hours
Altitude change: 492 ft (150 m)

Continue along the Syðri Ófæra river, crossing the Canyon of Fire Eldgjá once more. The landscape varies between green meadows and black sands, with bright green streaks of moss. Reach the Strútslaug natural pool right after fording the Hólmsá river. After a warm, relaxing bath, conclude the day’s march with a walk to the comfy hut at Strútur, where you’ll spend the night.
Distance: 15 miles (24 km)
Walking time: 7-8 hours
Altitude change: 984 ft (300 m)

Leave the comfortable hut for a day trek along the Mýrdalssandur, the black volcanic sand plain. Get your waterproof shoes ready, as you’ll be wading through some of the rivers. Admire the mystical landscape of Hvanngil valley, where you’ll be staying for the night.
Distance: 9-11 miles (1 -18 km)
Walking time: 5-6 hours
Altitude change: 492 ft (150 m)

After breakfast, pack your things and get ready to explore the side trails of the famous Laugavegur hiking trail! Proceed along the river Kaldaklofskvísl, admiring the eerie green Stórasúla mountain on the other side. Climb up the small Brattháls pass and see the famous lake Álftavatn—the “Swan Lake”. From here, your driver will pick you up and take you back to your accommodation in Reykjavík, where you’ll arrive in the early evening.
Distance: 3-4 miles (5-7 km)
Walking time: 3-4 hours
Altitude change: 984 ft (300 m)