The Laugavegur Trek

Degree of difficulty

• Achievable by anyone with a good level of fitness, with experience walking in mountainous terrain for consecutive days. 
• Be prepared to walk up to eight hours on rugged and uneven terrain for six consecutive days. The weather in Iceland can be unpredictable; high winds and heavy rain can make the going tough. 
• The maximum daily ascent on this route is 750m.
• After each day of trekking, participants are required to pitch their own tent and help out with food preparation with the rest of the group. 

Icelandic cuisine

• Full board is provided whilst trekking. Expect a varied and fresh menu, making good use of local produce and delicacies such as skyr, smoked salmon and lamb. 
• Each day will start with a hearty breakfast, with plentiful tea and coffee. A buffet-style lunch will be laid out each morning, where participants are able to prepare their own packed lunch from the options provided. 
• Whilst camping, it's expected that the group works together to assist in the kitchen, not only does this add to the experience, but it helps to create a good atmosphere and bond within the group during the adventure. 

Camping and Hostels

• The trip comprises a mix of camping and hostel accommodation.
• Whilst camping, tents and sleeping mats are provided, with spacious 3-man dome tents per two participants. A large dining tent is set up for mealtimes and for use as a communal space.
• You'll be required to pitch your own tent at the end of each day of trekking, with help from group members.
• Nights spent in hostels will offer dormitory facilities with shared bathrooms.

Clothing to bring

• Hat for sun protection and sunglasses
• Hat for warmth, scarf or head scarf that can be wet and warm gloves
• Long sleeve shirts or cotton t-shirts
• Jumpers - 1 lightweight and 1 warm
• Windproof and waterproof jacket with hood and trousers
• Breathable fast-drying underwear
• Comfortable long trousers (fast drying)
• Thermal long-sleeved vest and leggings
• Trainers or sandals for evenings
• Walking socks
• Hiking boots (high rise, sturdy soles)
• Sandals or crocs that can get wet while crossing rivers (Important)
• Swimming costume may be useful

Equipment to Bring

• Sleeping bag with minimum comfort rating of 0˚C
• 2 water bottles or flasks minimum (1 litre)
• Walking poles (highly recommended)
• Head torch with spare batteries and bulb
• Toiletries (including biodegradable wet wipes)
• Dry bags to keep clothes dry in your luggage
• Container for any toxic rubbish (batteries, sanitary items etc)
• Duffel bag (80 to 90 litres), flexible and water resistant
• Daypack (30 to 40 litres) to carry with you each day

Season

• Jan
• Feb
• Mar
• Apr
• May
• Jun
• Jul
• Aug
• Sep
• Oct
• Nov
• Dec

Meeting point

Keflavík Airport
Keflavík
235
Iceland

Getting To Iceland

• Keflavik Airport is well connected to a range of airports in the UK and various international locations.
• Guides will meet travellers at the airport upon arrival before taking a transfer. Keflavik is a short drive away from the capital Reykjavik.

The LaugaVegur trek Itinerary

• Day 1 | Arrival in Iceland

  Arrive in Iceland to be met by the guides. Take a transfer to Reykjavik with the rest of the day free to explore the city.

• Day 2 | Landmannalaugar

  Embarking on the adventure, take a local bus 120 miles to the multi coloured massif of Lanmannalaugar in the Fjallabak Nature Reserve. Hike along the Dómadalur route, marvelling at volcanoes, before setting up camp. Further hiking in the afternoon to either Ljótipollur crater lake or the impressive volcano Bláhnúkur.

• Day 3 | Brennisteinsalda

  A full day hiking in the Landmannalaugar area, a world of lava fields, Rhyolite mountains and geothermal activity. Via the Sudurnamur ridge, summit Brennisteinsalda, the most colourful volcano in Iceland. Along the descent, visit vast lava fields and stunning gorges. Soothe aching muscles with a warm river swim near the campsite.

• Day 4 | The Laugavegur Trail

  Head into one of the more active geothermal areas on the planet. Explore the glacier-topped volcano at Hrafntinnusker before weaving through hidden valleys at the foot of the Tindfjöll Glacier. Camping near Lake Alftavatn.

• Day 5 | The Emstrur Desert

  Trek through the Emstrur Desert, a vast expanse of black sand, punctuated by bright green conical mountains. Explore the Hattafell cone before arriving at the campsite. 

• Day 6 | Thorsmörk Valley

  Transition into the lush green forested valley of Thorsmörk, a stark contrast to the barren volcanic regions of previous days. Camp in a lush valley with wonderful views. 

• Day 7 | Return to Reykjavik

  Hike through the enchanting forests of Thorsmörk before returning to Reykjavik. Evening meal is not included, which gives the opportunity to sample Icelandic eateries in the capital.

• Day 8 | Departure

  After breakfast, take a transfer to the airport to being the journey home. 

Included

• Airport transfers
• Expert guide
• All transportation
• All accommodation
• Tents and mattresses
• 7 breakfasts, 5 lunches, 5 dinners

EQUIPMENT Provided

• 1 dome tent per 2 people
• 1 self inflating sleeping mat per person
• Communal dining tent
• Tables, chairs and eating utensils

Not Included

• Flights
• Visas
• Travel insurance
• Drinks, tips and personal expenses
• 3 evening meals in Reykjavik
• Personal trekking equipment including sleeping bag

This trip takes responsibility seriously and ‘goes the extra mile’ to ensure that your presence in this country is entirely positive.

Central to this is

• Caring for the crew
• Caring for the local environment
• Caring for the local communities

All guides and partners are hand picked to ensure that every aspect of your trip operates to the highest standard and reflect the strong values, ethics and joy of travel.

This commitment to Responsible Travel is mutually beneficial without compromising the countries and communities touched or the depth and uniqueness of your adventure.

Key values of this trip

• Leave nothing behind
• We’re the visitors, let’s be respectful at all times
• Deliver a breathtaking experience
• Let’s benefit local communities and environments

Let’s help keep these wonderful places precious.

Porters and crew

All crew are paid proper wages and are treated with respect and dignity. This trip with IMEC, IPPG and KPAP, all not-for-profit organisations that focus on improving the working conditions of porters.

Friends of Conservation

Travellers are given the opportunity to mitigate some of the environmental impacts of flying by supporting community and conservation initiatives.

Travellers Against Plastic

This trip is a proud supporter of the Leave No Trace and Travellers Against Plastic campaigns, which help educate travellers on the impact of travel and provide practical guidance for enjoying the outdoors responsibly.

Costs