Your Complete Guide to the Laugavegur Hike in Iceland
If you’re serious about hiking in Iceland, the Laugavegur hike is the ultimate experience.
This epic adventure takes you through some of Iceland’s most magnificent landscapes, with remote huts and campsites along the trail.
It’s one of the best ways to fully immerse yourself in Iceland’s unique wilderness while enjoying a fun multi-day hiking trail.
Here’s everything you need to know about planning and doing Iceland’s Laugavegur hike.
What is Iceland's Laugavegur Trek?
The Laugavegur is a famous hiking trail in Iceland that stretches about 55 km (or 34 miles) through Iceland’s incredible landscapes.
The trail connects Landmannalaugar and Þórsmörk, passing through colourful mountains, glaciers, hot springs, and volcanic deserts.
The Laugavegur hike is known for its breathtaking scenery and challenging terrain.
Doing the multi-day hike is one of the best ways to fully immerse yourself in Iceland’s raw and rugged natural beauty.
How Long Does It Take To Hike Iceland’s Famous Laugavegur Trail?
Hiking Iceland’s Laugavegur trail takes 3 to 4 days to complete.
Most hikers split the 55-kilometre trail into 11 to 15-kilometre daily segments. This pace is excellent as it allows you to enjoy the stunning scenery along the trail.
While this might seem like a long time to cover a short distance, the terrain of this hike can be seriously challenging, with steep climbs and entirely off-road paths.
You must also carry all your food and supplies, which can slow you down.
On top of this, the weather on the trail is notoriously unpredictable, with rain, snow, and thick fog being common.
You might have to wait for the rain to stop before leaving camp or navigate through snowy and icy river crossings, so give yourself plenty of time to complete the hike.
If you’re interested in an even more incredible adventure, you can extend your hike with the 20km (13 miles) Fimmvörðuháls trail.
The Fimmvörðuháls trail leads from Þórsmörk to the stunning Skógafoss waterfall in Skógar, crossing two glaciers along the way.
Most people hike the Laugavegur trail from north to south, as this direction slopes slightly downward, making things easier.
Plus, you must book the huts along the route in this order.
However, you can hike from south to north if you prefer fewer crowds and want to end your trek with a relaxing dip in Landmannalaugar’s thermal pools.
Your Ultimate Hiking Iceland Laugavegur Itinerary
When it comes to Iceland hiking, the Laugavegur trek is undoubtedly one of the best (if not the best) experiences you can have.
Here’s a breakdown of what the trail typically looks like if you hike north to south.
Day 1: Landmannalaugar to Hrafntinnusker
Distance: 12km
Time: 4-5 hours
You’ll start your adventure at Landmannalaugar.
If possible, arrive the day before to camp and explore the vibrant volcanic hills and hot springs. This also gives you time to stock up on last-minute essentials before the hike.
The first leg is tough, with a steep climb to the Laugahraun lava field - Iceland volcano hiking at its finest.
The path is strenuous, especially if covered in snow, but it soon levels out.
You’ll pass through a landscape of dark basalt formations and geothermal vents. After descending to a plateau near Brennisteinsalda, take a break to enjoy the colourful rhyolite mountains, an iconic sight along this trail.
Continue uphill to Stórihver, where a geyser fills the valley with steam. The final stretch involves climbing through snow patches and volcanic slopes to reach the Hrafntinnusker hut.
Congratulations, you’ve reached the highest point on the trail and completed the most challenging day of hiking!
Day 2: Hrafntinnusker to Álftavatn
Distance: 12km
Time: 4-5 hours
Day two starts by trekking across snow patches and bare rocks towards Álftavatn. This terrain is tricky and can take some time to get past.
The trail then winds over rolling basalt hills and past Reykjafjoll Mountain. The terrain here is mostly flat, but hidden ravines require careful navigation.
After a short, steep climb, you’ll reach the Jökultungur plateau, offering incredible views of glaciers like Tindfjallajökull and Eyjafjallajökull.
As you near the end of the day’s hike, you descend into the Álftavatn Valley. This valley is famous for its volcanic peaks and serene lake. The path continues across the valley floor, crossing the icy Grashagakvísl River.
The campsite at Álftavatn is well-equipped, featuring hot showers and a bar where you can enjoy a well-deserved beer after a long day.
Day 3: Álftavatn to Emstrur
Distance: 16km
Time: 6-7 hours
You start the day by heading east from the campsite, crossing the Bratthálskvísl River early.
The trail takes you along the Brattháls ridge to Hvanngil, a green valley with more huts.
You then continue south, crossing several rivers, including Kaldaklofskvísl and Bláfjallakvísl, the latter being particularly cold.
We recommend saving a pair of dry socks for this day, as you definitely won’t want to continue the trail with wet feet.
As you approach Emstrur, the landscape shifts to a sparse volcanic desert, Mælifellssandur, marked by black sand and pumice boulders. It’s a dramatic landscape you can only experience in Iceland.
After about an hour of walking, you’ll descend into a small valley where the Emstrur huts are located. It’s a stark but beautiful resting spot.
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Day 4: Emstrur to Þórsmörk
Distance: 14.5km
Time: 6-7 hours
The final leg of the journey begins with a quick but challenging descent to the Syðri-Emstruá River.
The Syðri-Emstruá River runs through a deep canyon.
Fortunately, there’s a footbridge for crossing, so you don’t have to worry about the same cold feet issues as the day before!
Once crossed, you climb back up to a higher plateau, which offers some awe-inspiring views of the gorge where the Syðri-Emstruá and Markarfljót rivers converge. These rivers are fed by meltwater from the Mýrdalsjökull and Eyjafjallajökull glaciers.
You then continue south through the hills of Almenningar, crossing small ravines like Slyppugil and Bjórgil. Both of these have excellent drinkable water.
As you leave the ravines, the landscape gradually becomes greener.
You’ll soon face the final steep climb to Kápa’s summit and then cross the Þröngá River over a gravel outwash plain. This marks your entry into Þórsmörk, or ‘Thor’s Valley,’ the greenest part of the trail.
Your legs will be tired by this stage, but you’re nearly there. Plus, the scenery here is beautiful.
You walk through Hamraskógar woodland, filled with stunted trees and wildflowers, before descending into the wooded valley.
As you reach Þórsmörk, your final destination, there are plenty of accommodation options, including the famous Langidalur hut and campsite.
If you plan to extend your trek on the Fimmvörðuháls trail, continue to the Baldvinsskáli hut, about 4km (2.5 miles) further.
For those finishing their hike, treat yourself to the Volcano Huts, which offer a sauna, hot pool, and a hearty dinner buffet, providing a luxurious end to your adventure.
When is the Best Time to Do the Laugavegur Trek in Iceland?
The best time to hike the Laugavegur Trek in Iceland is from late June to early September.
During these summer months, the weather is generally more stable, and the trail is clear of snow.
This weather is essential for a safe and accessible hike.
The long daylight hours of the Icelandic summer also mean you have plenty of time for hiking and enjoying the stunning scenery.
The huts and campsites along the route are also all fully operational during this period, so finding a place to stay is easy.
However, even in summer, Icelandic weather can be seriously unpredictable. Always be prepared for rain, wind, and cold temperatures.
How Do You Get to the Laugavegur Hike?
You have a couple of options for getting to the Laugavegur hike.
One of the easiest is to take a bus from Reykjavík. Several Icelandic companies offer a “hiking passport,” a flexible ticket allowing travel to your chosen start point - either Þórsmörk, Landmannalaugar, or Skógar - and back to Reykjavík at your endpoint.
This hiking passport is helpful if you’re unsure exactly how long your hike will take.
Try to book your bus in advance, as seats can fill up quickly during the peak hiking season.
If you’re on a group tour, transport is usually provided to and from Reykjavík, and sometimes meals are arranged at the huts each night.
Driving yourself isn’t practical if you’re hiking independently since the trail is linear and Iceland’s F-roads can be challenging.
Buses are the most convenient and reliable way to reach the trailhead and return after hiking.
Accommodation Options for Hiking Iceland’s Laugavegur
When hiking Iceland’s Laugavegur trail, you have two main accommodation options: huts or camping at campsites.
The Icelandic Touring Association (FÍ) manages both options. Remember, wild camping is not allowed in Iceland.
The huts are located at Landmannalaugar, Hrafntinnusker, Álftavatn, Hvanngil, Emstrur, and Þórsmörk. Each hut offers basic amenities like mattresses, toilets, cold running water, and a communal kitchen.
They’re heated but have no electricity for charging devices.
It’s essential to book these huts well in advance if this is how you want to stay, as they fill up quickly.
Camping in Iceland is always fun.
However, you don’t have the comfort of a warm hut and must bring all your camping gear. It’s also worth considering an Iceland camping card to help you save money if you plan to camp your whole trip.
Camping generally costs between 2,200kr and 2,300kr (about £13-£14) per night, while huts cost around 13,000kr (about £77) per night.
Hot showers are available for an extra 900kr (about £5) for both hut and camping guests.
What Gear Do You Need for the Iceland Laugavegur Hike?
Preparing for the Laugavegur hike in Iceland requires the right gear for a safe and enjoyable experience.
Here’s a general list of recommended gear you’ll need to bring.
Clothing
Layered Clothing: Bring moisture-wicking base layers, insulating mid-layers (like fleece or down), and a waterproof and windproof outer layer.
Hiking Pants and Shorts: Quick-drying and comfortable.
Rain Gear: Waterproof jacket and pants, no matter what season you’re hiking.
Warm Hat and Gloves: Even in summer, temperatures can drop significantly.
Buff or Scarf: For wind protection.
Footwear
Hiking Boots: Sturdy, waterproof, and broken-in boots with good ankle support. Arguably, it is the most important thing on this list.
Hiking Socks: Wool or synthetic, avoid cotton. Bring extra pairs!
Gaiters: Not essential, but great to keep debris and water out of your boots.
Camp Shoes: Lightweight shoes or sandals for relaxing at campsites. It’s not crucial, but it can be a real game-changer when your feet are tired.
Camping Gear (If You’re Camping)
Tent: Lightweight, durable, and suitable for Icelandic weather conditions.
Sleeping Bag: Rated for temperatures down to at least 0°C (32°F).
Sleeping Pad: For insulation and comfort.
Stove and Cooking Gear: Lightweight stove, fuel, pot, utensils, and a lighter. Check if campsites have a kitchen before bringing this along, as it's not always necessary.
Food and Snacks: High-energy, lightweight, and non-perishable items.
Essentials
Backpack: 40-60 litres, with a rain cover.
Trekking Poles: For stability on uneven terrain. They’re not essential, but helpful - especially for all the river crossings on day three.
Headlamp: With extra batteries.
Basic First Aid Kit: Include blister care, pain relievers, and personal medications.
Sunscreen and Sunglasses: Even on cloudy days.
Insect Repellent: Particularly useful in warmer months.
Power Bank: To keep your electronics charged (since huts don’t have electricity).
Conclusion
Iceland is an outdoor paradise, and the Laugavegur hike is one of the best ways to experience its natural beauty.
Inspired by the hike but want to try something a bit more remote? Check out the three-day Hornstrandir hike, a fantastic wilderness hiking experience in a lesser-known area.
