Join this 5-day trek from Landmannalaugar's geothermal hot spots to the verdant Þórsmörk valley. Guided by experienced experts, traverse vibrant yellow rhyolite mountains, black sand deserts, and majestic canyons. The enchanting landscape, illuminated by Iceland's long summer days, will captivate nature enthusiasts. Discover famous landmarks and hidden gems while indulging in cozy mountain huts and delicious Icelandic cuisine each evening. Conclude with a celebratory BBQ in Þórsmörk, highlighting why this trail earned a spot among National Geographic's top 20 treks globally.
Highlights
Explore the colorful mountains of Landmannalaugar and Hrafntinnusker
Discover the black deserts of Mælifellssandur and the green valleys of Emstrur
Experience the arctic birch forests and colorful flowers of Þórsmörk
Walk along paths in Þórsmörk, visit Sönghellir cave and Valahnúkur mountain
Requires high-intensity physical efforts that push the limits of one's fitness. May include tours with multiple days in a row of strenuous physical activity or single requiring more than 7 hours of activity. Recommended for travelers maintaining a demanding fitness level.
You take the public bus from the BSI bus terminal at 07:00, which, during the summer months, drives the mountain tracks that lead to Landmannalaugar, passing by the Hekla volcano and other volcanoes in the Dómadalur area. Arriving in Landmannalaugar at noon, you have lunch and head south into the mountains. The trail takes you past small gorges, steaming hot springs, and yellow mountain ridges. You arrive at Hrafntinnusker mountain hut, where you stay the night in the late afternoon.
Distance: 12 km (7.5 mi)
Walking time: 4 - 5 hrs
Ascent: 470 m (1540 ft)
After descending from Hrafntinnusker, the trail leads to the gullies of Jökultungur, an area filled with many hot springs and mud pools. From there, one can enjoy breathtaking views of the Álftavatn region (also known as Swan Lake), as well as the Mýrdalsjökull and Eyjafjallajökull glaciers. In the afternoon, arrive at Álftavatn hut, where you stay the night.
Distance: 12 km (7.5 mi)
Walking time: 4 - 5 hrs
Descent: 490 m (1610 ft)
Day 3: Álftavatn | Emstrur
1 Breakfast, 1 Lunch, 1 Dinner
Your journey starts with a pass at the base of the green, cone-shaped volcano of Stórasúla. After that, reach the black deserts of Mælifellssandur. Heading towards the ancient volcano of Hattfell, enter the Emstrur region, where farmers traditionally grazed their sheep in the summers. Before arriving at the Botnar hut, where you spend the night, visit the stunning Markarfljót canyon. This natural wonder is situated south of Hattfell and is cut around 200 meters deep into the rocks.
Distance: 16 km (10 mi)
Walking time: 6 - 7 hrs
Descent: 40 m (130 ft)
Continue your journey up and down the small valleys and gullies of Emstrur, with the great Mýrdalsjökull glacier looming just a couple of kilometers away. As the day's hike ends, descend into the lush green valleys of Þórsmörk, filled with arctic birch forests and vibrant flowers. Upon reaching the huts in Þórsmörk, you can savor a delicious barbecue to cap off your fantastic journey.
Distance: 19 km (12 mi)
Walking time: 6 - 7 hrs
Descent: 300 m (985 ft)
Day 5: Þórsmörk | Valahnúkur | Reykjavík
1 Breakfast, 1 Lunch
In the morning, you can spend time in Þórsmörk, a beautiful place with many paths to explore. You can walk to the Sönghellir cave and climb the Valahnúkur mountain to enjoy the stunning views. After spending the day in Þórsmörk, you can take the afternoon bus to Reykjavík, which arrives at the Reykjavik BSI bus terminal at 19:30, marking the end of your trip.
Apologies for the inconvenience. Prices for not yet published. Below per person rate based on previous season. Contact us to confirm upcoming season pricing.
Prices for are estimated based on inflation. Contact us to confirm pricing and availability for your desired departure date.
Initial deposit is 25%, and most travelers will call our office and pay the deposit with a credit card.
Final payment is due 70 days prior to departure by bank transfer, check, or credit card. Final payments by credit card may be subject to surcharge and maximum $20,000 charge
Our guide and driver were very good with their knowledge and were very helpful with our questions. It was a very pleasant visit that would have been impossible to do on our own. Hotels and restaurants were fantastic. The special places we got to go to, like the kitchens, were great. Enjoyed the entire trip!
Meyer Smolen
TrustScore 4.9 | 306 reviews
TrustScore 4.9 of 5
Based on 306 reviews on
2 days ago
Tony and Shannon were always quick to answer my questions and requests. They booked my Upper Mississippi cruise perfectly. They made sure that my dietary needs were met which is a big deal for me. I have the utmost confidence with their assistance.
Code
3 days ago
Third trip we have book with Adventure Life. Like the last two, we have had a quick response to all inquires
Carol Borland
3 days ago
Angela was fantastic! She was thoughtful, helpful, and prompt in her responses without being intrusive. She accommodated our large group and was genuinely excited for us when it all worked out. Can't say enough good things! This is our second trip booking through Adventure Life and we will definitely do it again.
Emily
4 days ago
Jessica was extremely helpful and generous with her time. She was very responsive to our questions and comments and in a very timely fashion. She worked with us in partnership to plan a trip specifically for us and our wants and needs.
Linda Coleman
4 days ago
Mary Curry found right trip for my budget and the best date that I liked. She made
that reservation when other company's agent could not do it.
Thank you so much!