Laugavegur Trek – 3 Days: Landmannalaugar to Þórsmörk
A challenging traverse through Iceland's most dramatic highland landscape, from multicolored rhyolite mountains to glacial valleys and ancient lava fields.
The Laugavegur Trek is widely regarded as one of the world's great long-distance trails, crossing a raw and constantly shifting highland interior that few regions on Earth can rival. Over three full days, hikers move through geothermal terrain, obsidian deserts, black sand flats, and glacier-flanked valleys before arriving at the forest oasis of Þórsmörk.
Starting from the vivid landscape of Landmannalaugar, the trail immediately immerses trekkers in a palette of ochre, rust, green, and slate-grey hillsides shaped by volcanic forces. The first day is the most demanding, covering 24 kilometers with significant ascent and descent, rewarded by an overnight stay at the shores of Álftavatn Lake.
The second day offers relief with a shorter stage through stark black sand deserts framed by the contrasting forms of mountains like Stórasúla and Hattfell. An optional evening hike leads to Markarfljótsgljúfur, a canyon dropping 200 meters through sheer basalt walls — a sight that justifies the extra effort.
On the third and final day, the character of the landscape shifts entirely as the trail descends alongside Mýrdalsjökull glacier toward the green birch woods of Þórsmörk. A stop at the iconic Seljalandsfoss waterfall rounds out the journey before returning to Brú base in the afternoon.
Trek Highlights
Walk through Landmannalaugar's extraordinary multicolored rhyolite mountains, a landscape unlike anywhere else in Iceland.
Trek alongside the flanks of Mýrdalsjökull and Eyjafjallajökull glaciers, two of Iceland's most prominent ice caps.
Relax at natural geothermal hot springs in Landmannalaugar before setting out on the first day's hike.
Visit Seljalandsfoss waterfall at the end of the trek, one of Iceland's most photographed natural landmarks.
Arrive at Þórsmörk, a sheltered valley of birch forest hidden behind the glaciers — a striking contrast to the open highland above.
Experience the full Laugavegur trail from Landmannalaugar to Þórsmörk, a classic route completed over three days with mountain hut accommodation.
Optional evening hike to Markarfljótsgljúfur canyon, a dramatic 200-meter gorge that rewards those willing to add a few extra kilometers.
Day-by-Day Itinerary
After a 2–3 hour drive to Landmannalaugar, the hike begins immediately through geothermal terrain. The route passes Hrafntinnusker, the obsidian highlands that give the area its name, and continues through the Jökultungur glacier tongue area before reaching Álftavatn Lake for the overnight stay.
Distance: 24 km (15 mi) — Walking time: 7–9 hours — Ascent: 470 m — Descent: 490 m. Meals included: lunch, refreshments, and dinner.
A shorter and more moderate day crosses black sand desert plains beneath the striking profiles of Stórasúla and Hattfell. The hut at Emstrur sits with wide views toward both Eyjafjallajökull and Mýrdalsjökull glaciers.
An optional evening hike leads to Markarfljótsgljúfur canyon. Distance: 15 km (9.5 mi) — Walking time: 5–6 hours — Descent: 40 m. Meals included: breakfast, lunch, refreshments, and dinner.
The final stage follows the trail alongside Mýrdalsjökull before descending to Almenningar, where birch trees signal the transition into Þórsmörk's sheltered valley. The Laugavegur trail officially ends here.
A drive then heads toward Brú base with a stop at Seljalandsfoss waterfall. Distance: 15 km (9.5 mi) — Walking time: 6–7 hours — Descent: 300 m. Driving time to Brú: 1–1.5 hours. Meals included: breakfast, lunch, and refreshments.
Following the Seljalandsfoss stop, the group returns to Brú base, expected to arrive in the afternoon. Transfer to Reykjavík can be arranged from Brú base.
What Is Included
Included
- Professional guide throughout the trek
- Transportation from Brú base to Landmannalaugar and return
- Mountain hut accommodation (2 nights)
- Meals as specified per day (lunches, dinners, breakfasts, and refreshments)
- Stop at Seljalandsfoss waterfall
- Optional evening hike to Markarfljótsgljúfur canyon
Not Included
- Personal travel insurance
- Sleeping bag (required for hut accommodation)
- Personal trekking equipment and clothing
- Alcoholic beverages and personal purchases
- Gratuities for guide
Important Information
Ready to Trek the Laugavegur?
Secure your place on this three-day highland crossing through some of Iceland's most extraordinary landscapes. Availability is limited during peak season.
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