Small-Group 5-Day Laugavegur Trail Summer Hiking Tour from Reykjavik

Day two of your multi-day hike in Iceland begins with a nourishing breakfast in the hut, preparing you for another day of exploration. You’ll head out for the day’s adventures when everyone is ready.

Today’s hike covers 7.5 miles (12 kilometers) and takes four to five hours. The route involves a descent of 1,610 feet (490 meters), so it’s a relatively easy day.

You will start the day by descending into the valleys of Jokultungur. This area is known for its numerous steaming hot springs and boiling mud pools, creating a unique and dynamic landscape. The geothermal activity makes the scenery both fascinating and surreal.

As you hike, your expert guide will share intriguing insights about the geothermal features and the region’s geology. The small group size gives you plenty of opportunities to ask questions and enjoy a personalized experience.

Continuing the journey, you’ll witness incredible views of the Alftavatn area, also known as Swan Lake. The vistas here are stunning, with the peaceful lake set against the backdrop of the Myrdalsjokull and Eyjafjallajokull glaciers.

The contrasting colors and expansive views present excellent photo opportunities and moments of awe. Ensure your camera is ready to capture lasting memories of this breathtaking setting.

You will stay the night at the Alftavatn hut, next to the serene lake. The area around the hut is picturesque, with the calm waters reflecting the surrounding mountains and glaciers. It’s a peaceful location, perfect for unwinding after a day of hiking.

Enjoy dinner at the hut in the evening and reflect on your day with fellow hikers. The cozy atmosphere and shared experiences create a sense of camaraderie and make for a memorable evening.

As you rest, you can look forward to the next day’s trek through Iceland’s magnificent landscapes.

Day three begins with a hearty breakfast at the Alftavatn hut, fueling you for another day of hiking. Then, it’s time to head off for another adventurous day discovering the wild beauty of the Icelandic Highlands.

The hike starts by passing the foot of the Storasula cone-shaped volcano. With its unique shape and vibrant colors, this striking volcanic formation adds a dramatic element to the landscape.

You will then traverse the Maelifellssandur black sand desert. This vast, barren area is known for its stark beauty, with dark sands stretching out in all directions. The contrast between the black sands and the surrounding green moss creates a surreal and captivating environment.

Next, you will enter the Emstrur region, a remote area traditionally used for sheep grazing. The desolate terrain here highlights the Highlands' rugged and untamed nature.

As you continue, you will encounter the breathtaking Markarfljotsgljufur canyon. This impressive canyon, carved by the Markarfljot river, offers stunning views of its sheer cliffs and deep gorges. It’s a highlight of the day, providing numerous photo opportunities.

Today’s trek covers 10 miles (16 kilometers) and takes six to seven hours. It involves a descent of 130 feet (40 meters). Although it’s a relatively flat walk, the distance is greater than the first two days, so you’ll welcome a rest by the end of the day.

You will spend the night at the Botnar hut, nestled in this remote and beautiful region. The hut offers a cozy and rustic setting to relax after a day of trekking through diverse landscapes.

After settling in at the hut, you can take a moment to absorb the tranquility of your surroundings. You'll enjoy a well-deserved dinner as the sun sets or under the midnight sun, casting a golden hue over the rugged terrain.

The evening provides a perfect opportunity to enjoy the calm surroundings or socialize with other hikers in your group.

Day four begins with breakfast at the Botnar hut, preparing you for the longest day of your trek. Today's hike covers 12 miles (19 kilometers) and takes six to seven hours, with a descent of 985 feet (300 meters).

Departing the Botnar hut, you'll continue through the picturesque valleys and gullies of the Emstrur area. The landscape is a captivating mix of rolling hills and rugged terrain, creating a scenic journey through Iceland's Highlands.

As you hike, the Myrdalsjokull glacier towers nearby, offering a stunning backdrop on clear days. The glacier's icy expanse contrasts beautifully with the surrounding greenery, adding to the dramatic scenery.

Towards the end of the day, you'll descend into the lush valleys of Thorsmork. This area is renowned for its arctic birch forests and the colorful flowers that adorn the landscape during summer. Jagged mountain peaks, winding rivers, and a striking contrast of black volcanic sands and vibrant green vegetation enhance the scenery.

Thorsmork, meaning "Thor's Forest," is named after the Norse god Thor. The valley's name reflects its mythical beauty and the sense of adventure it evokes. Thorsmork's enchanting landscapes have also been featured in the popular Game of Thrones series, adding to its allure and making it a must-visit destination for fans.

You will spend the night at a cozy hut in Thorsmork. To celebrate the trek, enjoy a barbecue with your fellow hikers. It's a brilliant way to spend your final night on the trail, sharing stories and relishing the friendships formed over the past few days.

As the day comes to a close, take a moment to appreciate the serene beauty of Thorsmork. The peaceful surroundings and the sense of achievement make for a memorable evening.

Prepare for your final day in this extraordinary landscape, knowing you've experienced some of Iceland's most spectacular natural wonders.

Day five begins with breakfast at the hut, preparing you for your final day of adventure. You'll spend the morning trekking in the beautiful Thorsmork valley, with several hiking options available based on the group's preference and the guide's recommendations.

Thorsmork, often called the "Valley of Thor," is a nature reserve between the Myrdalsjokull, Eyjafjallajokull, and Tindfjallajokull glaciers. This sheltered oasis is known for its lush greenery, diverse plant life, and stunning rock formations.

The contrasting landscapes, from valleys to mountains, offer endless opportunities for exploration and photography. Therefore, whichever route your group takes this morning guarantees breathtaking scenery that seems straight from a storybook.

One option is a hike to Songhellir, also known as the Song Cave. This unique cave is famed for its acoustics. Your guide may also share local folklore and stories about its history. The cave provides a fascinating glimpse into the area's natural and cultural heritage.

Another option is to hike up Valahnukur mountain. This trek offers incredible panoramic views of the Thorsmork valley, the surrounding glaciers, and the distant highlands. The ascent is rewarding, with each step bringing more unbeatable scenery into view.

After a morning of exploring, you'll enjoy a final lunch together, savoring the last moments in this enchanting setting.

In the afternoon, you'll board the Highland bus for the journey back to Reykjavik. As you travel, you can reflect on the unforgettable experiences and the mesmerizing landscapes you've encountered over the past five days. The scenic drive offers a final chance to soak in the beauty of Iceland's rugged terrain.

You will arrive at the BSI bus terminal in central Reykjavik at about 19:20, marking the end of your once-in-a-lifetime hiking trip. The memories of the Laugavegur trail will undoubtedly stay with you long after the adventure finishes.