Laugavegur Trail Itinerary and Route Guide

The Laugavegur Trail is Iceland’s most famous multi-day hiking route, connecting the geothermal landscapes of Landmannalaugar with the sheltered birch woodlands and green valleys of Þórsmörk. Not to be confused with Reykjavík’s high street, this Laugavegur is located in the remote highlands of southern Iceland, criss-crossing a landscape shaped by volcanoes, glaciers and geothermal activity.

Spanning approximately 55 kilometres, the trail takes hikers through colourful rhyolite mountains, lava fields, black sand deserts, river valleys and wide-open volcanic landscapes. It is a route where every day feels different, which is one of the reasons the Laugavegur Trail itinerary remains one of the most sought-after hiking experiences in Iceland.

Before choosing the right Laugavegur Trail route and itinerary for you, it’s wide to understand the basics of the adventure. Here’s a cheat sheet:

Distance: Approximately 55–56 km from Landmannalaugar to Þórsmörk

Typical Duration: 4 to 6 days

Starting Point: Landmannalaugar

End Point: Þórsmörk

Terrain: Volcanic Landscapes, mountains, verdant valleys and glacial river crossings

Accommodations: Mountain huts or camping

Difficulty: Moderate to Challenging

The trail begins at Landmannalaugar, famous for its colourful rhyolite mountains and geothermal areas, including Landmannalaugar’s geothermal bathing area. From there, hikers traverse the rugged Icelandic highlands before descending into the lush green valleys of Þórsmörk.

The route includes some elevation gain, as well as exposed sections and unpredictable weather. Conditions can vary significantly from one day to the next, so preparation is key.

Accommodation along the route is typically in mountain huts, which are often referred to locally as “volcano huts.” Those inclined to roughing it can also opt to camp in designated sites. Hut spaces are limited and should be booked well in advance.

A guided Laugavegur trail itinerary offers the advantage of local knowledge, route management and logistical support. Self-guided options provide more independence but require hikers to organise transport, accommodation, navigation and safety decisions themselves.

There is no single best way to hike the Laugavegur Trail. The right choice depends on your experience, fitness level and preferred pace.

A shorter itinerary covers the classic route efficiently, while longer options allow more time to enjoy viewpoints, explore side routes and take in the changing landscapes.

Below are three popular ways to experience the trail.

4-Day Laugavegur Trail Itinerary

Iceland Mountain Guides’ four-day Laugavegur Trek Basic (Huts) is the classic way to hike the Laugavegur Trail. It covers the full distance between Landmannalaugar and Þórsmörk while maintaining a steady pace.

This backpacking tour follows this traditional itinerary and is ideal for hikers who want a complete highland experience over a shorter timeframe.

Day 1: Landmannalaugar to Hrafntinnusker

The journey begins in Landmannalaugar, where colourful rhyolite peaks surround the trail. The route climbs steadily through geothermal landscapes, passing steaming vents, obsidian lava fields and sweeping mountain views.

The first day introduces hikers to Iceland’s highland environment with exposed terrain and changing weather.

Accommodation: Hrafntinnusker Hut.

Day 2: Hrafntinnusker to Álftavatn

This section is one of the most scenic parts of the trail. The route crosses a varied landscape of valleys, ridges and volcanic terrain before descending towards Álftavatn Lake.

Expect a mixture of uneven trails, snow patches early in the season and some river crossings.

Accommodation: Álftavatn Hut or nearby Hvanngil Hut.

Day 3: Álftavatn to Emstrur

The landscape changes dramatically as the trail enters the black sand deserts of Mælifellssandur.

This is a longer but relatively gradual hiking day, crossing wide volcanic plains with views towards glaciers and mountains.

Accommodation: Emstrur Hut.

Day 4: Emstrur to Þórsmörk

The final day takes hikers through one of the trail’s most dramatic areas. The route passes the impressive Markarfljót Canyon before gradually descending into the sheltered forests of Þórsmörk.

The contrast between barren highlands and green valleys makes this a memorable finish.

Is this four-day trek right for you? Check out the details.

5-Day Laugavegur Trail Itinerary

A five-day Laugavegur trail itinerary provides a more relaxed pace, allowing more time to enjoy the varied landscapes without rushing between huts.

The Laugavegur Trek Classic (Huts) is well suited to hikers who want a balanced experience with shorter daily stages.

Breaking the journey into more manageable sections means there is more time for photography, exploring viewpoints and appreciating the geology of the route.

A typical five-day itinerary with Icelandic Mountain Guides includes:

Day 1: Landmannalaugar to HrafntinnuskerDay 2: Hrafntinnusker to HvanngilDay 3: Hvanngil to EmstrurDay 4: Emstrur to ÞórsmörkDay 5: Additional time to soak up the sites in Þórsmörk

Fancy this five-day Laugavegur trek? Check out the details.

Thinking of going it alone instead? Check out this self-guided five-day itinerary of the Laugavegur Trail.

6-Day Laugavegur Trail Itinerary

Exploring Laugavegur over the course of six days gives travellers the luxury of a deeper experience and more time on the trail.

The six-day itinerary like the Laugavegur & Fimmvörðuháls Combo Tour does exactly what its name suggests: it bundles the Laugavegur Trail with the Fimmvörðuháls Trail to extend the total journey from Þórsmörk towards Skógar.

A longer itinerary allows for:

• Shorter hiking days
• More time at scenic viewpoints
• Greater flexibility around weather
• Additional exploration around Þórsmörk

For many hikers, the benefit of a six-day Laugavegur trail itinerary is not covering more distance, but experiencing the landscape at a more natural rhythm.

Looking to go the distance? Check out this six-day Laugavegur Trail and Fimmvörðuháls itinerary.

Landmannalaugar to Hrafntinnusker

Distance: Approximately 12 kmHiking time: Around 4–5 hoursTerrain: Mountain trails, geothermal areas and lava fields

The first stage of the Laugavegur Trail introduces hikers to the colourful volcanic landscape of the Fjallabak Nature Reserve. The trail climbs around 470 m, from Landmannalaugar through rhyolite mountains before reaching Hrafntinnusker.

Picture geothermal wonders, obsidian formations and panoramic highland views.

Hrafntinnusker to Álftavatn

Distance: Approximately 12 kmHiking time: Around 5–6 hoursTerrain: Rolling highland terrain and river crossings

This section combines some of the most dramatic scenery on the trail. The route crosses the volcanic landscape before descending 490 m towards green valleys and Álftavatn Lake.

Picture maximum contrast between dark mountains and bright emerald vegetation.

Álftavatn to Emstrur

Distance: Approximately 16 kmHiking time: Around 6–7 hoursTerrain: Black sand deserts, rivers and volcanic plains

Along this stretch of the Laugevegur Trail, the landscape becomes more open and desert-like.

The route crosses Mælifellssandur, a vast black sand area shaped by glacial activity. While the terrain appears simple, conditions can be exposed, especially in strong wind.

Picture ancient volcanic deserts and wide open space as far as the eye can see.

Emstrur to Þórsmörk

Distance: Approximately 17 kmHiking time: Around 6–7 hoursTerrain: Canyon paths, valleys and forests

The final stage on the classic Laugavegur Trail route provides a spectacular transition from barren highlands into the green landscapes of Þórsmörk. The highlight for many hikers is Markarfljót Canyon before the trail enters the sheltered valley.

Picture the mesmerising descent into a green oasis and the full-body high of finishing one of the most epic treks of your life.

The Laugavegur Trail is achievable for beginners who take the time to preparation well. Still, it should not be underestimated.

You do not need previous multi-day trekking experience, but you should be comfortable walking for several hours a day on uneven ground.

Fitness is important, but mindset matters too. Icelandic weather can be unpredictable, and hikers need to be comfortable adjusting plans when conditions change.

For first-time trekkers, a guided itinerary can provide reassurance. Experienced guides manage navigation, assess conditions and help groups make safe decisions throughout the journey.

A successful Laugavegur trail itinerary starts with the right equipment. For a complete breakdown, see our Laugavegur Trail packing list. Here’s the TL;DR:

Essential Clothing

Bring clothing designed for layering:

• Moisture-wicking base layers
• Warm insulation layers
• Waterproof jacket and trousers
• Hiking trousers
• Warm hat and gloves

Footwear Recommendations

Good hiking boots are essential. Choose footwear that is comfortable, broken in and suitable for wet and uneven terrain.

Weather Protection

Rain and wind protection are critical. Icelandic weather can change quickly, so reliable waterproof layers are one of the most important items in your pack.

Backpack and Camping Equipment

Pack size depends on your which itinerary you choose. If camping, you will need:

• Backpack
• Tent
• Sleeping bag
• Sleeping mat
• Cooking equipment

If staying in huts, your load can be significantly lighter.

A big part of enjoying your time in Iceland is dressing wisely. This handy packing guide will set you off on the right foot.

The hiking season in Iceland is relatively short, usually running from June through September.

Hiking Laugavegur in June

June offers long daylight hours and fewer visitors, but conditions can still be winter-like at higher elevations.

Expect possible snow patches and colder temperatures.

Hiking Laugavegur in July

July is one of the most popular months. Trails are usually accessible, weather is generally more stable and daylight is almost continuous.

Expect more hikers and busier huts.

Hiking Laugavegur in August

August remains an excellent month for hiking. Conditions are often favourable, but weather can still change quickly.

Hiking Laugavegur in September

September brings fewer crowds and autumn colours. However, temperatures drop and services become more limited.

For a detailed overview, see Hiking in Iceland by month.

The Laugavegur Trail is one 55 km long must-see spot. But there are some stand-out sites along the way.

• Landmannalaugar’s Rhyolite Mountains: The starting point of the Laugavegur Trail is famous for colourful mountains created by volcanic activity. It is one of Iceland’s most distinctive hiking areas.
• Hrafntinnusker: This highland area is known for obsidian rocks, geothermal features and dramatic weather.
• Álftavatn Lake: Surrounded by mountains, Álftavatn is one of the most scenic overnight locations on the trail.
• Mælifellssandur: This black volcanic desert highlights the raw power of Iceland’s glaciers and volcanoes.
• Markarfljót Canyon: A spectacular canyon near the end of the route, where the power of Iceland’s glacial rivers is on display.
• Þórsmörk Valley: The final destination of most Laugavegur Trail itineraries is this green oasis surrounded by glaciers and mountains.

Wondering whether to book a guided Laugavegur Trail trek of go it alone? Both options offer a rewarding experience, but they suit different travellers.

Guided Hiking

Advantages:

• Local expertise
• Navigation support
• Safety management
• Organised accommodation
• Group support

Guides provide insight into Iceland’s landscape while managing practical challenges.

Self-Guided Hiking

Advantages:

• More independence
• Flexible pace
• Personal adventure

However, hikers must organise:

• Transport
• Hut reservations
• Route planning
• Weather decisions

A self-guided Laugavegur Trail trek is suitable for experienced hikers. The trail is well established in summer, but self-guided hikers still need to be comfortable making decisions in remote terrain and in instances when the weather changes quickly.

The Laugavegur Trail remains one of Iceland’s most rewarding hiking experiences because every stage offers something completely different. From the colourful mountains of Landmannalaugar to the forests of Þórsmörk, the route combines volcanic landscapes, geothermal areas, rivers and valleys in a single journey.

With the right route, equipment and expectations, the Laugavegur Trail offers a genuine Icelandic highland experience that stays with you long after you leave the trail.