Laugavegur and Thorsmork Valley: 5-Day Trekking Tour (Tents)
Five active days through Iceland's most iconic highland trail, from volcanic ridges to glacier-carved valleys.
The Laugavegur trekking tour is one of Iceland's most celebrated wilderness experiences, guiding small groups across a succession of volcanic landscapes, geothermal fields, and glacial rivers over five unforgettable days.
Departing from Reykjavík, the journey moves through Landmannalaugar, Álftavatn, Emstrur, and finally into the lush Thorsmork valley, with luggage transported between campsites so trekkers carry only day packs on the trail.
Accommodation for the first three nights is in tents, with a communal group tent serving as a shared dining and gathering space each evening. The final night is spent inside the Básar hut in Thorsmork, offering a welcome change of scenery before the return to Reykjavík.
Groups are kept to between four and ten participants, led by an English-speaking local guide throughout. Meals are included each day, and outdoor equipment including tents and sleeping bags can be rented directly from the tour operator.
Tour Highlights
Trek the full Laugavegur trail across five active hiking days, passing through some of Iceland's most dramatic highland terrain.
Soak in natural geothermal hot springs at Landmannalaugar after your first day's hike through the rhyolite mountains.
Pass through the obsidian-rich Hrafntinnusker area at 1,100 meters, with panoramic views of nearby glaciers and volcanic formations.
Cross the striking black sands of Mælifellssandur with views of the Mýrdalsjökull glacier resting above the Katla volcano.
Arrive in the Thorsmork valley, a sheltered haven of birch forest and glacier-carved ridges rarely seen on shorter tours.
Climb to the Peak Útigönguhöfði on the final morning for sweeping views of Eyjafjallajökull, Mýrdalsjökull, and the surrounding valleys.
Luggage is transported between all campsites by 4x4 vehicle, so you hike light while your gear travels ahead to the next stop.
Itinerary Overview
Depart Reykjavík with scenic stops en route to the Highlands. After lunch and camp setup, enjoy a two-to-three-hour introductory hike around Landmannalaugar's geothermal landscape, with time to relax in the natural hot springs before dinner.
Trek 24 kilometres through the Laugahraun lava field, past Brennisteinsalda and up to Hrafntinnusker at 1,100 metres, then descend to the shores of Lake Álftavatn. Total ascent of 900 metres with approximately seven hours of active hiking.
A 15-kilometre stage crossing the black sands of Mælifellssandur, with views of Mýrdalsjökull and the dramatic Markarfjótsgljúfur canyon. Estimated six to seven hours of active hiking before reaching the Emstrur campsite.
Cover 17 kilometres through volcanic terrain and lush valleys, crossing glacial rivers before arriving at the Básar hut in Thorsmork. The final night is spent inside the hut, with sleeping bag accommodation included.
Begin the morning with a hike to the Peak Útigönguhöfði for panoramic glacier views, followed by lunch at Básar before the group transfers back to Reykjavík, arriving at approximately 18:00.
What Is Included
Included
- Professional English-speaking local guide for all five days
- 4x4 vehicle transport from Reykjavík to Landmannalaugar and return
- Luggage transport between all campsites
- All meals: breakfast, lunch pack, and dinner each day
- Tent accommodation for three nights (group tents and personal tents)
- Sleeping bag accommodation at Básar hut on night four
- Communal group tent as evening facility at campsites
- Facility fees at all campsites and huts
- Hotel and bus stop pickup in Reykjavík
Not Included
- Personal hiking gear and clothing
- Tents and sleeping bags (available to rent from ICETREK)
- Travel insurance
- Personal expenses and souvenirs
- Gratuities for guide
Important Information
This is a moderate multi-day trek requiring a reasonable level of physical fitness. Daily distances range from 5 to 24 kilometres with significant elevation changes. Participants should be comfortable hiking for up to seven hours in variable weather conditions.
Ready to Trek the Laugavegur Trail?
Secure your place on this five-day guided trek through Iceland's Highlands, from the geothermal landscapes of Landmannalaugar to the birch forests of Thorsmork valley.
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