Laugavegur and Fimmvörðuháls Trek

From the Reykjavik BSI bus terminal, take the regular public bus at 07:00 am to the beautiful Þórsmörk valley behind the glaciers in the south highlands. Arrive in Þórsmörk around noon and after lunch you’ll have the opportunity to explore this natural wonder and enjoy the picturesque scenery. Night in one of the huts in Þórsmörk.

Leaving Þórsmörk, cross the river Krossá on a footbridge entering the magic landscapes of Goðalönd – the abode of the Gods. Nesting at the foot of two glaciers this is a wonderland of ridges and cliffs covered by a multitude of flowers and grasses, certainly fit for gods and humans alike. Even the elves have made themselves at home here. Continue up the hills leading to the pass of Fimmvörðuháls, walking along the Kattarhryggir ridges with views to the impressive mountain of Útigönguhöfði up to Morinsheiði heath. At the end of the Morinsheiði plateu, enjoy the view of the lava stream that flowed down from the Fimmvörðuháls volcano in March and early April 2010. The lava is all set with different outlets of fuming steam and decorated with green and yellow sulphur. As you gain height above Morinsheiði, you come again to the lava and then to the two craters Magni and Móði that erupted prior to the main Eyjafjallajökull crater. Cross the brand new lava just at the foot of the magnificent red craters, through places were the lava is almost glowing warm inside the fissures and cracks on its surface. After crossing safely the lava you get a view to the lava and the craters from a hill on the other side, before crossing the néves of the high pass of Fimmvörðuháls, to get to the hut between the glaciers Eyjafjallajökull and Mýrdalsjökull, where you set up for the night.

Distance: 12 - 14 km (7 - 9 mi)
Walking time: 6 - 7 hrs           
Ascent: 900 m (2953 ft)

After a night between the two glaciers, head down to Skógar. At the beginning, the path takes us over a desolate heath an old hut that does not offer much shelter any more. Come to the Skógaá River and follow the river exploring its many hidden gorges, and waterfalls all the way to the famous Skógafoss waterfall. The river and its surroundings offer great scenery. The coast seems to be within arm’s reach and you can almost feel the surf on your cheeks. Arriving at Skógafoss, hop on the scheduled bus to Reykjavík. Arrival at Reykjavik BSI bus terminal at 7:20 pm, where the trip ends.

Distance: 12 - 13 km (7 - 8 mi)
Walking time: 6 - 7 hrs
Descent: 1000 m (3280 ft)