Laugavegur Trail Express - 4 days

Our adventure begins bright and early at 7:00 AM in Reykjavik. We embark on a scenic drive along the south coast, heading towards the rugged highlands. En route, we pass the formidable Hekla volcano, known as the 'Gateway to Hell' in medieval times. Our destination, Landmannalaugar, marks the start of the legendary Laugavegur trail. Here, we explore the otherworldly Laugahraun lava field, the dramatic Vondugil canyon, and the vibrant Mt. Brennisteinsalda. As we head to our campsite, we marvel at the Graenagil gorge and, if time permits, ascend the Blahnjukur Volcano for breathtaking views. Accommodation is in private tents at dedicated campsites, with communal facilities available. Distance: 8 km (4.9 mi), Walking time: 4 hrs, Ascent: 470 m (1540 ft).

After a hearty breakfast, we set off through the pitch-black Hrafntinnusker obsidian desert, past the vibrantly colored Reykjafjoll rhyolite mountains, and into the mesmerizing Jokultungur region. The geothermal forces here have sculpted the landscape into a striking palette of colors. Reaching the summit of Jokultungur, we are rewarded with panoramic views across the Fjallabak region and Alftavatn Lake, where we will camp for the night. The day ends with a thrilling river ford on foot. Distance: 24 km (14.9 mi), Walking time: 7 hrs, Ascent: 900 m (2952 ft).

Today, we begin with a thrilling wade across a gushing stream, heading towards Maelifellssandur and its dramatic volcanic terrain. We encounter the imposing Storasula and Hattafell volcanoes, guiding us to Emstrur. If the weather is favorable, we enjoy stunning vistas of the Eyjafjallajokull and Myrdalsjokull glaciers. Our journey continues to Botnar, a green sanctuary amidst a black sand desert, where we marvel at the Markarfljotsgljufur canyon. We spend the night in this captivating area. Distance: 15 km (9.5 mi), Walking time: 6-7 hrs, Descent: 40 m (130 ft).

After breakfast, we bid farewell to Emstrur and Botnar, setting off towards Thorsmork. As we traverse the Almenningar gorge near Mount Einhyrningur, we continue to enjoy breathtaking glacier views. Approaching Thorsmork, the landscape transforms into lush birch forests. Celebrating the completion of the Laugavegur Trail, we are collected at the trail's end and drive back to Reykjavik, glimpsing the cascading Seljalandsfoss on our way. We arrive in Reykjavik around 21:30, with drop-off at the City Hall on Vonarstraeti. Distance: 15 km (9.5 mi), Walking time: 6-7 hrs, Descent: 300 m (985 ft).