Iceland · Europe · hiking · 4 days

Fjallabak – Laugavegur Trail

Hike the spectacular multi-day Laugavegur Trail starting in Landmannalaugar, crossing the Fjallabak nature reserve and arriving in Þórsmörk on day four.

Edge of the MapVolcano CountryAbove Treeline
4Days
54.6kmTotal Distance
2,234mTotal Ascent
2,240mTotal Descent
Grade 3Vertigo Scale

Tour Overview

DayRoute Distance Ascent Descent Duration
Day 1Day 110.2 km↑1,198m↓1,198m7h 30m
Day 2Day 211.4 km↓5m3h
Day 3Day 316.2 km↑555m↓549m6h 30m
Day 4Day 416.8 km↑481m↓488m6h
Total54.6 km +2,234 m −2,240 m

Route Map

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Description

The hiking trail between Landmannalaugar and Þórsmörk is one of the most popular multi-day hiking trails in Iceland and is regularly listed as one of the most beautiful trails in the world. The main draw are the volcanic desert-like moonscapes, colorful rhyolite mountains and black obsidian lava. The trail is typically done in 4 days, spending the nights in huts or at campgrounds in between. While you’ll regularly bump into other people due to the trail’s popularity, we found the number of people still pretty bearable.

What to bring

Tips

Downloads

laugavegur_day1Download

laugavegur_day4Download

laugavegur_day2Download

laugavegur_day3Download

Places & Landmarks

FAQ

How difficult is the Laugavegur Trail?

Moderate. The 54 km route is typically done in 4 days with 940 m of total ascent. The challenge is more about weather and river crossings than technical terrain.

When is the best time to hike Laugavegur?

July and August, when the trail is generally clear of snow and bus services to Landmannalaugar are running. Check conditions before starting, as snow can persist into summer.

Do I need to book huts or campsites in advance?

Yes. The trail is popular and huts and campgrounds fill up. Book through the Iceland Touring Association. Wardens at each camp provide weather updates each day.

Are there river crossings?

Yes, several. Bring river crossing shoes or sandals. Do not cross if water is brown and faster than walking speed, deeper than the knee, or you can hear rolling rocks.

What weather should I prepare for?

Unpredictable and potentially harsh. Expect wind, low temperatures, and even snow in summer. Carry full waterproofs and warm layers, and check the forecast with wardens daily.

Day 1

Day 1

10.2 km ↑1198m ↓1198m
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Day 2

Day 2

11.4 km 0 ↓5m
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Day 3

Day 3

16.2 km ↑555m ↓549m
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Day 4

Day 4

16.8 km ↑481m ↓488m
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