Laugavegur Trail Express - 4 days

Laugavegur Trail Express - 4 days

4 Days
From

$3015

Laugavegur Trail Express - 4 days

4 Days Starting and ending in Reykjavik, Iceland

Visiting: Reykjavik, Landmannalaugar

Tour operator:

On The Go Tours

Guide Type:

Fully Guided

Group size:

2 - 14

Physical rating:

Medium

Age range:

15-70

Tour operated in:

English
From: $3015

NB: Prices correct on 16-Sep-2024 but subject to change.

This tour is no longer available, please see similar tours below or send an enquiry

Tour Overview

Embark on the Laugavegur Trail Express, a 4-day trekking adventure through Iceland's most stunning landscapes. Starting and ending in Reykjavik, this tour takes you on a 55-kilometre journey through the otherworldly Laugahraun lava field, the dramatic Vondugil canyon, and the pitch-black Hrafntinnusker obsidian desert. Marvel at the geothermal wonders of Jokultungur and the lush birch forests of Thorsmork Valley. Enjoy 3 nights of camping in private tents with facilities, and travel comfortably in heated coaches with free Wi-Fi. With meals included and guided by an expert Icelandic trekking guide, this tour promises an unforgettable experience in the heart of Icelandic nature.

Highlights

  • Reykjavik - Start and end your trekking adventure in the enchanting Icelandic capital city.

  • Laugavegur Trail - Complete this 55-kilometre trek, camping along the way and tackling some of Iceland's most picturesque scenery.

  • Landmannalaugar - Venture through the otherworldly Laugahraun lava field and the dramatic Vondugil canyon.

  • Hrafntinnusker - Traverse the pitch-black expanse of the obsidian desert and the vibrantly coloured Reykjafjoll rhyolite mountains.

  • Jokultungur - Experience the geothermal forces that have sculpted the rugged gullies into a striking palette of colours.

  • Botnar - Marvel at the Markarfljotsgljufur canyon, a 200-metre-deep gorge carved by a glacial river.

  • Thorsmork Valley - Traverse the Almenningar gorge and enjoy the lush birch forests that make Thorsmork renowned.

Itinerary

Expand All

Day 1: Reykjavik

Location: Reykjavik

Accommodation Name: Campsite

Meals Included: Lunch, Dinner

Reykjavik - Landmannalaugar. We set off early in the morning, at 7:00 from the heart of Reykjavik (see the tour Trip Notes and your booking documentation for information about the pick up point). Our drive to Landmannalaugar will take around 3-4 hours, beginning with a journey along the stunning south coast before we ascend into the rugged highlands, where we’ll be spending the rest of the week. The drive itself is a visual feast, offering breathtaking views, not least of the mighty Hekla, Iceland's most active volcano. This formidable mountain, ominously referred to by medieval Europeans as the 'Gateway to Hell,' has erupted with fierce regularity every 10 to 15 years over the past century.





Landmannalaugar marks the starting point of the legendary Laugavegur trail. We’ll venture through the otherworldly Laugahraun lava field and the dramatic Vondugil canyon, taking in the kaleidoscope of colours that make the rhyolite mountains so unique, with the vibrant Mt. Brennisteinsalda standing out as a highlight. As we head to our accommodation, we’ll have the chance to marvel at the Graenagil gorge and, if time permits, ascend the Blahnjukur Volcano for even more awe-inspiring views.





Accommodation & Equipment: On this tour we stay in private tents at dedicated campsites. There is normally a small kitchen with stoves, hot water and utensils. A communal shower/toilet block is available for travellers on this tour and can be used communally by anyone else staying at the accommodation. Everyone on the tour will participate in camp chores such as cooking and washing up. You will need to bring with you on this tour: Thermal underwear (top and bottom), at least two sets of shirts, wool or fleece thermal mid layer, hiking pants, waterproof and breathable pants and jacket, wool/fleece hat, at least one pair of gloves, 2 to 3 pairs of thick socks, waterproof hiking boots, sleeping bag and travel pillow, sun glasses, sunscreen / after sun cream, travel sack for your baggage that is transported between campsites, day backpack, 25-40 L, river crossing shoes (old sneakers or similar for fording rivers), health supplies and prescription medicine, personal medical kit to include personal medication, 1-2 liter water bottle, towel. Please note that we can arrange rental of many of these items for you, including sleeping bag, boots, jacket and waterproof pants. Please enquire with our team at the time of booking.





Distance: 8 km (4.9 mi)


Walking time: 4 hrs


Ascent: 470 m (1540 ft)

Day 2: Landmannalaugar

Location: Landmannalaugar

Accommodation Name: Campsite

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Landmannalaugar - Hrafntinnusker - Jokultungur - Alftavatn. After a restful sleep and a hearty breakfast, we’ll be raring to hit the trail once more! Today’s adventure takes us through the pitch-black expanse of the Hrafntinnusker obsidian desert, past the vibrantly coloured Reykjafjoll rhyolite mountains, and into the mesmerising Jokultungur region. Here, geothermal forces have sculpted the rugged gullies into a striking palette of burnt and vivid yellows and reds, a vivid contrast to the soft, pale sandy tones that surround them.





Reaching the summit of Jokultungur, we’ll be rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views across the entire Fjallabak region and Alftavatn Lake, where we’ll be spending the night. To reach our campsite, we’ll need to ford a river on foot, a thrilling experience for many overseas hikers and one that adds an extra layer of excitement to our day’s journey.





Distance: 24 km (14.9 mi)


Walking time: 7 hrs


Ascent: 900 m (2952 ft)











Day 3: Landmannalaugar

Location: Landmannalaugar

Accommodation Name: Overnight: Botnar

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Alftavatn - Emstrur - Botnar. Our journey today kicks off with a thrilling wade across a gushing stream, as we head towards Maelifellssandur and delve into the dramatic volcano terrain. Along the way, we’ll encounter the imposing Storasula and Hattafell volcanoes, guiding us towards Emstrur. If the weather is on our side, we’ll be treated to stunning vistas of the majestic Eyjafjallajokull and Myrdalsjokull glaciers.





As we make our way to Botnar, a green sanctuary nestled amidst a black sand desert, we’ll marvel at the Markarfljotsgljufur canyon, an awe-inspiring 200-metre-deep gorge carved by a glacial river. We’ll spend the night in this captivating area, soaking in the rugged beauty and tranquil ambiance.





Distance: 15 km (9.5 mi)


Walking time: 6-7 hrs


Descent: 40 m (130 ft)



Day 4: Reykjavik

Location: Reykjavik

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch

Botnar - Emstrur - Thorsmork Valley - Reykjavik. After breakfast, we bid farewell to Emstrur and Botnar and set off on our hike to Thorsmork. As we traverse the Almenningar gorge near Mount Einhyrningur (the Unicorn Mountain), we’ll continue to enjoy breathtaking views of the glaciers. But as we draw nearer to Thorsmork, the landscape begins to transform. We’ll start to see clusters of trees, heralding the onset of the lush birch forests that make Thorsmork so renowned.





We did it! You can celebrate the completion of the world-famous Laugavegur Trail! we will be collected at the trail's end and shall drive back to Reykajvik. We can glimpse the cascading Seljalandsfoss on our way back, arriving in the city at around 21:30.





Drop-off is offered at the City Hall on Vonarstraeti in Reykjavik.





Distance: 15 km (9.5 mi)


Walking time: 6-7 hrs


Descent: 300 m (985 ft)



What's Included

  • Meals

    3 breakfasts, 4 lunches, and 3 dinners are included.

  • Accommodation

    3 nights camping in private tents at campsites with facilities such as kitchens, hot water, toilets, and showers.

  • Guided Trek

    The trek is escorted by an Icelandic trekking guide.

  • Transport

    Pick up and drop off from Reykjavik in heated coaches with free Wi-Fi on board.

  • Luggage Storage

    Luggage storage is provided.

  • Tour Partner

    This tour is operated in conjunction with a trusted partner, and you will join travelers from different operators, not solely On The Go.

What's Not Included

  • International Flights and Visas

    International flights and visas are not included.

  • Transfers

    Arrival and departure transfers are not included.

  • Tips

    Tips for your guide are not included and are an entirely personal gesture.

  • Pre and Post-Tour Accommodation

    Pre and post-tour accommodation in Reykjavik is not included.

Mode of Transport

Travel in heated coaches with free Wi-Fi for pick-up and drop-off from Reykjavik, ensuring a comfortable and connected journey to and from the Laugavegur Trail.

Accommodation

Enjoy 3 nights of camping in private tents at campsites equipped with kitchens, hot water, toilets, and showers, ensuring a comfortable stay amidst Iceland's stunning landscapes.

Age Policy

Min:15yrs, accompanied by an adult / Max:70

Check out our Q&As

  • What kind of accommodation is provided during the tour?

    The tour includes 3 nights of camping in private tents at campsites equipped with kitchens, hot water, toilets, and showers, ensuring a comfortable stay amidst Iceland's stunning landscapes.

  • What meals are included in the tour?

    The tour includes 3 breakfasts, 4 lunches, and 3 dinners.

  • Is there a guide for the trek?

    Yes, the trek is escorted by an Icelandic trekking guide.

  • What kind of transport is provided for the tour?

    Pick-up and drop-off from Reykjavik are provided in heated coaches with free Wi-Fi on board.

  • Is luggage storage available during the tour?

    Yes, luggage storage is provided.

  • What should I bring with me on the tour?

    You will need to bring thermal underwear, shirts, wool or fleece thermal mid layer, hiking pants, waterproof and breathable pants and jacket, wool/fleece hat, gloves, thick socks, waterproof hiking boots, sleeping bag, travel pillow, sunglasses, sunscreen, travel sack, day backpack, river crossing shoes, health supplies, personal medical kit, water bottle, and a towel. Rental of some items like sleeping bags, boots, jackets, and waterproof pants can be arranged.

  • What is the difficulty level of the hikes each day?

    The hikes vary in difficulty with distances ranging from 8 km to 24 km and walking times from 4 to 7 hours. The terrain includes ascents and descents, river crossings, and traversing through diverse landscapes such as lava fields, rhyolite mountains, and black sand deserts.

  • What is the age policy for this tour?

    The minimum age for this tour is 15 years, accompanied by an adult, and the maximum age is 70 years.

  • Are international flights and visas included in the tour package?

    No, international flights and visas are not included in the tour package.

  • Are arrival and departure transfers included?

    No, arrival and departure transfers are not included.

  • Are tips for the guide included in the tour price?

    No, tips for your guide are not included and are an entirely personal gesture.

  • Is pre and post-tour accommodation in Reykjavik included?

    No, pre and post-tour accommodation in Reykjavik is not included.

  • What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?

    Ensuring our footprint is light and that the benefits of travelling reach the local communities you visit is paramount to us. We’re proud to say that when travelling with us, the large majority of your holiday funds remain within the countries you visit, supporting local economies at a grass roots level.

  • How long has the tour company been trading?

    Since 1998

  • Who will be my travelling companions on the tour?

    With English-speaking tours, it's not a huge surprise that most on our travellers are from English-speaking countries or have English as their second language. Our group tours cater for everyone from 18 years old to 70+

  • Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?

    Yes

Reviews of this operator

Nicola Hodgkinson (Google Reviewer)  

Recently returned from Greece, a...

07-May-2024

Recently returned from Greece, a 5 day tour with OTG. Unfortunately, I had a negative experience on day 2 where I needed local support to get me out of a tricky situation. Thank you to Alexandra Z from Hetco Tours in Athens for helping me continue on with the trip, to the Hotel Zafolia staffing team and to Danielle and team here in the UK for supporting me with the aftermath. Your kindness will not be forgotten and I will pay it forward. I've now booked 3 trips with yourselves and will continue to go back. Thank you all. Honestly, I am SO grateful. Blessings to you all. Nicola

Calvin  

Wonderful experience

05-Jan-2023

Jamal is our tour guide. Right from the start, he created a group chat in whatsapp and if any issues to make sure we contact him. He was on the ball with every issue thrown at him. Luggage being left behind, stragglers wondered off in a different path, hotel room etc. He explains the various site along our route to give us a better understanding of the local cultures. We had a great time, thanks to Jamal.

Trustpilot
Norma Sullivan  

Land of the Northern Lights 5 day tour of Iceland

10-Sep-2021

The Land of Northern Lights tour was a triumph! My tour of Southern Iceland was absolutely wonderful. The venues chosen, the timing allotted at each venue and the variety of things to experience was nearly perfect. Our guide, "Thor", was smart, amusing, full of history and anecdotal stories as well as being incredibly hospitable and helpful. This small group experience was my first, but not my last thanks to On the Go.

Trawls (Google Reviewer)  

On The Go Tours Sri...

05-Feb-2024

On The Go Tours Sri Lanka was an incredible experience that was made even better by our tour guide Akthar. He was incredibly knowledgeable about his country and he loved sharing it with us. The tour covers a wide range of activities so you can truly experience what Sri Lanka is all about. The beautiful 4-5 star hotels at the end of every day was an absolute bonus. Thanks for a great trip OTGT I’m sure this won’t be my last

Xtreme Floor Care (Google Reviewer)  

Traveled through Egypt with On...

30-Nov-2023

Traveled through Egypt with On the Go Tours, professional service, very informative and helpful tour guides. The choice of hotels was excellent... Definitely recommend this company

Gavin Harrigan  

King Tutankhamun 10 day tour of Egypt

16-Sep-2021

I have just returned from my tour with On The Go and it was an amazing trip! From arriving at the airport and meeting the OTG representative, everything was well organised and hassle free.  Our tour guide was Amir. He is awesome!! From the beginning he was so friendly and enthusiastic about showing us around Egypt, giving us loads of information at each place and time to explore ourselves. Learnt so much from him about this fascinating place, and he was always happy to answer more questions.   The trip itself was amazing. There's lots of travelling on this trip, but it's really not too bad, and the sights you see when you get to where you are going are worth it. I'm not a big fan of boats, but the Felluca ride across the Nile was pretty fun too.  On the first day I also did the optional tour of Cairo with Ahmed Helal - another excellent guide from OTG. It's worth doing this add on as you don't spend much time in Cairo, and you go to three very different places.  I'm so glad that I decided to do this trip. It was just ace.  If you're thinking about it too, you should probably just book it. And hopefully you get Amir as your guide.

Paul Kelly (Google Reviewer)  

TOTALLY MOROCCO We booked a 9...

26-Feb-2023

TOTALLY MOROCCO We booked a 9 day tour of Morocco visiting many main cities and places of interest. The coach was very comfortable and we felt safe with the driver Suliman. The guide was Hicham Touraouine and he was fantastic. He spoke perfect English as well as French, Arabic and Berber. He was so kind and considerate and made a good tour great. We particularly enjoyed ‘glamming in the Sahara Desert. So much to see and do and great food and company. We would definitely use On The Go Tours again, especially if Hicham was the guide. Paul & Penny

Joyce Heitler (Google Reviewer)  

I would give this tour...

09-May-2024

I would give this tour group no stars if possible. The tour was not guaranteed but they did not inform me when I booked and they did not have enough people. Way after I booked they said I needed a doctors letter because I was over 70. Also way after booking I was informed I needed travel insurance. They knew my age when I booked. They would not refund my tour even though it was 4 months away.

Sarah Paterson (Google Reviewer)  

Terrible tour of India. For...

27-Dec-2023

Terrible tour of India. For some reason On the Go hadn't realised that my room mate had booked her own room for the first night of tour. So the hotel in Delhi had tried to put me in her room after midnight, by wheeling in an extra bed. She went Crazy!! I then had to sit in hotel reception for hours. While the tour guide said he couldn't find me a room. Throughout the tour the guide consistently ask me and my room mate for money for my room, causing more friction between us. Don't book with this company had the worst experience ever. Go with Intrepid or G Adventure

brandy hoffman (Google Reviewer)  

I had used them once...

09-Aug-2023

I had used them once before and loved them. I decided to try them again for a Baltic tour not knowing that they put me on another Tour group- Baltic vision. Loved that tour but was not impressed they marked up the cost for me over 100%. I understand taking some for yourself because of paperwork, but over double the cost everyone else paid on the tour. Just double check before you book with them that you’re not over paying.

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Book with Confidence

  • Transfer as credit to Future Tours

    On The Go Tours allows you to transfer existing payments to a future tour to avoid cancellation fees if you can't travel and inform on the go tours, 60 days before departure.

  • Low Deposit

    On The Go Tours requires a minimum deposit of 500 GBP per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 60 days before departure.

  • Cancellation Policy

    We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of on the go tours charges.

    Up to 60 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.

    At 59 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.

    At 30 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.