6-Day Classic Laugavegur Hike — Women Only
A legendary trail through geothermal highlands, glacial rivers, and volcanic desert — shared with an all-women group.
The Laugavegur Trail is widely regarded as one of the most spectacular long-distance hikes on Earth, and this six-day women-only journey brings every extraordinary mile of it to life. From steaming geothermal vents and obsidian-studded black sand deserts to shimmering glacial lakes and dense birch valleys, the landscape shifts dramatically with each passing day.
The hike begins in Landmannalaugar and ends in the lush valley of Thorsmork, covering roughly 55 kilometers of Iceland's Southern Highlands. Two additional hiking days in Thorsmork extend the experience well beyond the classic trail, adding panoramic summit views and forest walks that few guided itineraries include.
Logistics are handled throughout the week: a dedicated luggage transporter moves bags and food boxes between huts each morning, allowing participants to hike with only a daypack. Accommodation is in trail huts, and each day begins with a prepared breakfast and self-assembled packed lunch using supplied ingredients.
The group is composed exclusively of women, creating a focused and supportive environment for a physically demanding route. The trail involves glacial river crossings, significant elevation changes, and variable highland weather — experience with multi-day hiking is strongly recommended before joining.
Tour Highlights
Trek through active geothermal terrain at Landmannalaugar, where hot springs and steaming vents define the landscape at the trail's starting point.
Cross glacial rivers including the unbridged Blafjallakvisl, a defining and memorable feature of the Laugavegur experience.
Hike alongside the Myrdalsjoekull and Eyjafjallajokull glaciers, whose presence shapes the scenery throughout the southern sections of the trail.
Arrive in Thorsmork, a protected nature reserve of dense birch forest and dramatic volcanic ridges tucked between three glaciers.
Complete the Tindfjallahringur circle trail on day five, a full-day route with steep climbs and postcard-quality views over the highland interior.
Climb Valahnukur on the final morning for a 360-degree panorama of the entire Thorsmork valley before the afternoon return to Reykjavik.
Travel as part of an all-women group on a challenging route that rewards effort with some of Iceland's most striking backcountry scenery.
Itinerary Overview
Depart Reykjavik by Highland Bus, with a stop in Hella to hand over luggage and food boxes. Arrive in Landmannalaugar for lunch, then begin the first 12 km section of the trail, ascending 470 m to the highest hut on the route at Hrafntinnusker.
Descend steeply from the snow plateau through valleys filled with geothermal activity. Cross the glacial river Blafjallakvisl and reach the lakeside hut at Alftavatn, framed by Myrdalsjoekull glacier. Distance: 12 km, descent 490 m.
A longer day of 16 km crossing two glacial rivers and passing through the black desert of Maellifellssandur. An optional evening hike to Markarfljot canyon adds approximately 3 km and is highly recommended.
The final day of the Laugavegur Trail proper covers 17 km through the Almenningar gorge past Mount Einhyrningur. The landscape transitions from volcanic desert to birch forest as the group descends into Thorsmork, beneath Eyjafjallajokull and Myrdalsjoekull.
A dedicated hiking day on the Tindfjallahringur circle route, covering 12 km with 350 m of elevation gain over 5 to 6 hours. Steep sections and narrow ridgelines are offset by sweeping views across the highland reserve.
A three-hour morning circuit includes the Valahnukur summit, the Songhellir cave, and a walk through the Husadalur hut area. The group then boards the afternoon bus back to Reykjavik, arriving at The Pond around 18:00.
What Is Included
Included
- Highland bus transfers from and to Reykjavik
- Luggage and food box transportation between huts each day
- Accommodation in trail huts along the Laugavegur route
- Daily breakfast prepared at the hut
- Packed lunch ingredients for self-assembly each morning
- Professional highland guide throughout the trek
Not Included
- Personal travel insurance
- Dinners and any meals beyond those specified
- Personal hiking gear and clothing
- River crossing footwear
- Optional activities or additional excursions
- Gratuities for guide or support staff
Important Information
Reserve Your Place on the Trail
Spots on this women-only Laugavegur departure are limited by hut capacity. Confirm your place early to secure a position on one of Iceland's most sought-after guided treks.
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