8-day adventure
The Laugavegur Trek
Iceland
- Trekking & Hiking
From $3,635
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our UK team
Our local team
Our office in Iceland is located in the capital city of Reykjavik and has been established for more than 20 years. Our local team in country handle all the logistics of our trips as well as maintaining our equipment and our fleet of all terrain vehicles. Our experienced and passionate guides love nothing more than introducing people to the glaciers, geysers and volcanoes of this world class adventure destination. We offer treks on the world...
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Kandoo's view
Join Kandoo Adventures as we take on Iceland’s most iconic journey, the Laugavegur Trek. Showcasing the most jaw dropping scenery of southern Iceland, this route will take you through the forests of Thorsmörk, across the Emstrur desert and to the summit of Bláhnúkur, the blue peak. We will spend 4 nights sleeping under canvas amidst staggering natural beauty and wide open spaces. At the end of the tour there is time to explore the capital city of Reykjavik with its mix of traditional and modern architecture, fascinating museums and delicious cuisine.
Trip highlights
- Climb to the summit of Brennisteinsalda
- Explore the valley of Thorsmörk
- Camping in phenomenal locations
Experiences
-
Trekking & Hiking
Our core collection of treks and hikes, through some of the world's most outstanding landscapes
Gallery
Itinerary
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Day 1
WELCOME TO ICELAND
Welcome to Iceland! We will greet you at the airport and escort you to your accommodation in the capital city. Enjoy an evening to explore Reykjavik at leisure. why not join a walking tour of the city or perhaps visit a museum and find a nice local restaurant for dinner.
- Accomodation: Hostel
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Day 2
LANDMANNALAUGAR
This morning we head to the multi coloured massif of Landmannalaugar in the heart of the beautiful Fjallabak Nature Reserve. We travel 120 miles using a local bus, passing through outstanding scenery. On arrival we follow the famous Dómadalur route and stop to marvel at Hekla, one of Icelands most active volcanoes. After we have set up camp, depending on the conditions, we can walk to Ljótipollur or climb Bláhnúkur. Ljótipollur means 'ugly puddle' but contrary to its name it is a stunning crater lake famous for its bright colours and visable lava layers. Bláhnúkur translates as 'blue peak' and is an impressive volcano with views of five glaciers from the summit in good conditions. This evening we can relax and take a swim in Landmannalaugar’s warm river before bed.
- Hiking time: 3 - 4 hours
- Ascent: 340 m
- Descent: 340 m
- Accomodation: Camping
- Meals included: Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner
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Day 3
BRENNISTEINSALDA
Today is our first full day exploring the extraordinary Landmannalaugar area. A world of active geothermals, lava fields and Rhyolite Mountains. Get ready for a day of stunning views as we hike along Sudurnamur ridge and summit Brennisteinsalda, the most
colourful volcano in Iceland. On our descent, we will explore the vast lava fields of Laugahraun and the beautiful Graenagil gorge. We can end the day by swimming in a warm river near to our campsite.- Hiking time: 5 - 6 hours
- Ascent: 550 m
- Descent: 550 m
- Accomodation: Camping
- Meals included: Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner
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Day 4
THE LAUGAVEGUR TRAIL
Today we journey through the beautiful Rhyolite Mountains in one of the most active geothermal areas on the planet. We will explore the glacier topped volcano of Hrafntinnusker and find ourselves in the heart of its vast collapsed caldera. Our hike ventures through a series of small hidden valleys at the foot of the Tindfjöll Glacier. Tonight we camp near the stunning Lake Alftavatn.
- Hiking time: 7 - 8 hours
- Ascent: 750 m
- Descent: 600 m
- Accomodation: Camping
- Meals included: Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner
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Day 5
THE EMSTRUR DESERT
This morning we begin our crossing of the Emstrur Desert, a vast landscape of black sand which is periodically inturupted by impressive bright green conical mountains. These lonely imposing peaks jump out of their monochrone surroundings creating truly unique scenery. We will explore the impressive Hattafell cone before arriving at our campsite.
- Hiking time: 5 - 6 hours
- Descent: 50 m
- Accomodation: Camping
- Meals included: Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner
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Day 6
THORSMöRK VALLEY
Þórsmörk, or Thorsmörk to use the English spelling, is known as the 'the woods of Thor' named after the god of thunder it is a lush area vastly different from yesterdays desert landscapes. As we descend into Thorsmörkvalley, little by little the harsh landscape around us softens into an Alpine valley of lush green slopes and gullies. In the late afternoon we return to Reykjavik and settle in at our accommodation in the city.
- Hiking time: 4 - 5 hours
- Descent: 300 m
- Accomodation: Hostel
- Meals included: Breakfast / Lunch
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Day 7
REYKJAVIK
There is lots of possibilities today as we have free time to explore Reykjavik and relax a little after our adventure. You may like to go whale watching, visit the blue lagoon or tour the museums. In the afternoon we visit the Reykjanes peninsula and the Fagradalsfjall volcano. The volcano began erupting in March 2021 following strong seismic activity on the peninsula. We share a final meal together as a group this evening, possibly on the peninsula or maybe back in Reykjavik depending on the weather.
- Accomodation: Hostel
- Meals included: Breakfast / Dinner
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Day 8
DEPARTURE
Transfer to the airport and flight home.
- Meals included: Breakfast
- See more
Details
Trip information
Difficulty
This trek is of moderate difficulty. You
will be required to walk continuously for 5 days, possibly in very cold and wet
weather. The maximum ascent and descent in a single day is 750m. At the end of
each day you will be required to pitch your own tent and help with the
preparation of food. You will need to be in good physical condition with recent
experience of walking in mountainous terrain for several days in a row.
If you have any questions about your
suitability or how to prepare for this trip please do not hesitate to contact
us.
Food & drink
This
trip is full board while trekking. We are proud of the varied, fresh and
frankly delicious food we provide on our camping trips. Meals are produced with
a selection of local products and you will have the opportunity to
try Icelandic delicacies such as skyr, smoked salmon and leg of lamb.
Each
day will start with a hearty breakfast accompanied by plenty of tea and
coffee. Between us, we will prepare and carry a picnic lunch for the day
including salad, sandwiches, fruit and cakes among other options. Each three
course evening meal includes meat, fish and vegetables. We offer fresh fruit
and vegetables everyday.
Your
help in the kitchen is expected and much appreciated, particularly in
the evenings. We like the whole group to work as a team to cook dinner, it
creates a pleasant atmosphere as we reflect on the days adventures
together.
Alcohol
is very expensive in Iceland and you can only buy beer which is stronger than
2.25% in state run liquor stores. If you
want to enjoy an evening drink after your days adventures, we recommend
buying Duty Free alcohol in the airport. The tap water in Iceland is
of a very high quality.
Please
let us know about any dietary requirements when you book your trip, we will
work with you to cater for your needs.
Accommodation
We provide a high quality 3 man tent per
2 people to allow for maximum space and comfort. We will also provide a self inflating
sleeping mat per person and a dining tent for use at meal times and as a
communal area. You will be required to pitch your own tent at the end of each
day. Campsites will normally have hot showers
available for a small fee and clean toilets. Electricity is not always
available and you will be charged a small fee for charging.
In Reykjavik we stay in comfortable hostel accommodation in twin rooms with shared bathroom facilities.
Luggage
During the trek you will be required to
carry a small daypack with your lunch, spare clothing, water and any medical supplies
or personal items. You should also bring a larger 80-90 litre duffel bag for
the bulk of your luggage which will be transported by vehicle. Please make sure
your large bag is flexible and not a rigid suitcase.
How do I get there?
You will need to arrive in Reykjavik on day 1 of your itinerary. Reykjavik's international airport is called Keflavic (KEF) and is located 48km outside the city. The journey from the airport into the city will take around 45mins. Reykjavik's city airport is used for domestic flights only.
From the UK, there are direct flights to Keflavic from London Heathrow (LHR) with British Airways and Icelandair. Easy Jet also offer direct flights from London Luton (LTN), Manchester (MAN) and Edinburgh (EDI). The flight time is roughly 3 hours depending on which airport you depart from.
For those traveling from the USA, Icelandair have direct flights from New York (JFK), Boston (BOS), Washington (IAD) and Seattle (SEA). Delta offer convenient flights via New York from San Francisco (SFO), Los Angeles (LAX), Phoenix (PHX) and Atlanta (ATL).
On arrival in Iceland, after clearing immigration and collecting your luggage, please look out for a member of our team in the arrivals area. They will be holding a large “KANDOO” sign.
Budget & change
The local currency in Iceland is the
Icelandic Krona (ISK). For the most up to date exchange rate please visit www.xe.com
For
meals in Reykjavik you should budget 2500 – 5600 Krona
Tips
Although the custom is not widespread in
Iceland, if you are satisfied with the services of your guide, tipping is
always appreciated. It is not obligatory and should be left to the discretion
of each individual.
Formalities & health
Passport
Most travellers will require a passport valid for at least 6 months after your return date. It is your responsibility to confirm your specific requirements and please be aware that proof of onward travel may be required.
Visa
Travelling to the Iceland is visa free for up to 90 days, for UK and US citizens
Vaccinations
No vaccinations are required.
Insurance
It is your responsibility to ensure that you are fully and adequately insured for the duration of your trip. Please ensure that all activities, excursions and destinations in your itinerary are included in your travel insurance policy, in addition to your regular cover for cancellation and medical expenses. We ask that you keep a copy of your policy summary (containing policy number and the emergency contact number for your insurer) in your day sack at all times, so that we can access this information should we need to contact the insurer on your behalf.
Medication
Your
guide carries a first aid kit at all times but we recommend you carry the
following itemsPainkillersAnti-diarrhoea
tabletsSunscreen (high factor) for lips and
skinMoisturising
creamElastic bandage and regular bandagesSanitary productsWater purifying tablets or filtersMosquito sprayBlister bandage
Equipment & clothing
Equipment supplied by Kandoo Adventures
- 1 dome tent per 2 people
- 1 self inflating sleeping mat per
person
- Communal dining tent
- Tables, chairs and eating utensils
Clothing to bring
- Hat for sun protection
- Hat for warmth
- Scarf or head scarf that can be wet
- Sunglasses
- Long sleeve shirts or cotton t-shirts
- Jumpers, 1 light weight and 1 warm
- Windproof and waterproof jacket with
hood
- Breathable fast drying underwear
- Warm gloves
- Comfortable long trousers (fast drying)
- Waterproof trousers
- Thermal long sleeved vest and leggings
- Trainers or sandals for evenings
- Walking socks
- Hiking boots (high rise, sturdy soles)
- Sandals or crocs that can get wet while crossing rivers (Important)
- Swimming costume may be useful
Equipment to bring
- Sleeping bag with minimum comfort
rating of 0˚C
- 2 water bottles or flasks minimum (1 litre)
- Walking poles (highly recommended)
- Head torch with spare batteries and
bulb
- Toiletries (including wet wipes)
- Dry bags for keep clothes dry in your
luggage
- Container for any toxic rubbish
(batteries, sanitary items etc)
- Duffel bag (80 to 90 litres),
flexible and water resistant
- Daypack (30 to 40 litres)
to carry with you each day
OTHER USEFUL KIT
- Camera
- Binoculars
- Insect
repellant
- Thermos flask
Dates & prices
| From | To | Price | Availability | Book | Enquire |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 09/07/2023 | 16/07/2023 | $3,635 £2,799 |
Guaranteed
|
Book now | Enquire now |
| 13/08/2023 | 20/08/2023 | $3,635 £2,799 |
Available
|
Book now | Enquire now |
| 17/07/2024 | 24/07/2024 | $3,705 £2,849 |
Available
|
Book now | Enquire now |
| 10/08/2024 | 17/08/2024 | $3,705 £2,849 |
Available
|
Book now | Enquire now |
Want to ask us a question or book a private trip? Don't hesitate to contact us!
Contact usPrice includes
- Airport
transfers
- An expert Kandoo Adventures guide
- All Transportation and Accommodation
- Tents and mattresses
- 7 breakfasts, 5 lunches, 5 dinners
Price does not include
- Flights and Visas
- Travel insurance
- Drinks,
tips and personal expenses
- 3 evening meals in Reykjavik
- Personal trekking equipment including sleeping bag
Options
- Additional hotel nights before or after your trek
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