Laugavegur – Fimmvörduháls Hiking Route

The ancient Fimmvörduháls route has been named one of the world’s best hikes by National Geographic.

Explore the effects of recent volcanic activity, lava fields, and Þórsmörk’s lush valley on this 6-day hiking adventure through Iceland’s magnificent wilderness. You might even spot a mythical creature along the way.

This hike across Fimmvörduháls, combined with the Laugavegur trek, is one of the most famous routes in Iceland. Along this popular trail, you’ll see remnants of the first phase of the 2010 Eyjafjallajökull eruption. Since then, Fimmvörduháls has become a hotspot that showcases Iceland’s geological forces.
You’ll trek through Þórsmörk Nature Reserve, cross between two glaciers, and walk over fresh lava. You'll pass the famous craters Magni and Móði before descending to the lowlands, where you’ll be welcomed by the mighty Skógafoss waterfall and the nearby Atlantic coast. The route’s diversity makes it one of Iceland’s all-time hiking favorites. Accommodation is in rustic mountain huts.

Itinerary

Day 1: Reykjavik – Landmannalaugar
We depart early from downtown Reykjavik to maximize the day. The 3–4 hour scenic drive takes us along the South Coast and up into the Highlands.
We’ll pass the dramatic volcano Hekla – Iceland’s most active volcano, once considered by medieval Europeans to be the “Gateway to Hell.”
Landmannalaugar is the starting point of the Laugavegur trail. Today, we’ll hike through the Laugahraun lava field and Vondugil canyon, and take in the vivid rhyolite mountains, especially Mount Brennisteinsalda. On the way back to the hut, we’ll stop by Grænagil canyon and, if time allows, hike up Bláhnúkur volcano.

Distance: 8 km
Hiking time: 4 hours
Elevation: 470 m

Day 2: Landmannalaugar – Álftavatn
After a good night’s sleep and a nourishing breakfast, we’ll hike through the black obsidian desert of Hrafntinnusker, the colorful Reykjafjöll rhyolite mountains, and the Jökultungur area. Geothermal activity has turned these rugged canyons into a palette of burnt orange, yellow, and red hues. These vibrant colors contrast with the pale sandy surroundings.
At the top of Jökultungur, we’ll enjoy views over Fjallabak Nature Reserve and Álftavatn lake, where we’ll stay overnight. One river crossing awaits – usually a thrilling highlight for international hikers.

Distance: 24 km
Hiking time: 7 hours
Elevation: 900 m

Day 3: Álftavatn Lake – Emstrur (Botnar)
Today starts with another river crossing. We’ll then head across the black sands of Mælifellssandur, passing volcanoes Stórasúla and Hattafell.
With good visibility, we’ll see the Eyjafjallajökull and Mýrdalsjökull glaciers. On our way to Botnar – a green oasis in the desert – we’ll witness Markarfljótsgljúfur, a spectacular 200-meter-deep glacial canyon.

Distance: 15 km
Hiking time: 6–7 hours
Elevation: 40 m

Day 4: Emstrur – Þórsmörk Valley
After breakfast, we’ll hike through Almenningar canyon near Mt Einhyrningur (“The Unicorn”) and descend toward Þórsmörk.
The environment changes as more trees and vegetation appear, transitioning into the birch forest Þórsmörk is known for.
Tonight’s hut is nestled under the glaciers – a truly magical place to end the Laugavegur trail.

Distance: 15 km
Hiking time: 6–7 hours
Elevation: 300 m

Day 5: Magni & Móði Volcanoes – Fimmvörduháls Pass
Fimmvörduháls is the iconic mountain pass between the Mýrdalsjökull and Eyjafjallajökull glaciers. Today we’ll visit the newly formed craters Magni and Móði, created during the first eruption phase in 2010.
Named after Thor’s sons, Magni (“Strong”) and Móði (“Brave”) stand as fresh evidence of Iceland’s ongoing volcanic evolution.
Back in Þórsmörk, we’ll celebrate completing the Laugavegur and Fimmvörduháls trails with a traditional Icelandic grilled lamb dinner.

Distance: 16 km
Hiking time: 7–8 hours
Elevation: 800 m

Day 6: Þórsmörk – Reykjavik
On our final day, we explore Þórsmörk and its surroundings. A hike up Mount Útigönguhöfði offers stunning views of the valley and nearby glaciers.
For those preferring something gentler, a walk to Húsadalur or relaxing in Langidalur are perfect options. On the return to Reykjavik, we’ll stop at Seljalandsfoss waterfall. Arrival in Reykjavik is around 6:30 PM.

Distance: 6 km
Hiking time: 3 hours
Elevation: 800 m

What to Bring:

• Thermal base layers (top and bottom)
• Wool or fleece mid-layers
• Hiking trousers
• Waterproof and breathable outerwear
• Wool or fleece hat
• At least one pair of gloves
• 2–3 pairs of thick hiking socks
• Waterproof hiking boots
• Sleeping bag and travel pillow
• Sunglasses
• Sunscreen / after-sun lotion
• Large backpack (for transported luggage)
• Daypack (25–40 L)
• Shoes for river crossings (e.g. old sneakers)
• Toiletry kit and any medication
• 1–2 litre water bottle
  Towel

Pick-up Locations & Times from Reykjavik:

7:00 AM – Tourist Info Center, City Hall (Ráðhúsið), Vonarstræti
7:15 AM – Hallgrímskirkja Church
7:30 AM – Reykjavik Campsite

Outside Reykjavik:

8:35 AM – N1 Gas Station, Selfoss
9:15 AM – Hella Bus Terminal

Note: The bus may arrive up to 30 minutes after the scheduled pick-up time.

Cancellation Policy for this tour:

15% fee if cancelled 280–60 days before the tour
50% fee if cancelled 59–30 days before the tour
75% fee if cancelled 29–16 days before the tour
100% fee if cancelled 15 days or fewer before departure