Laugavegur Trek with glacier hike – 7 Day (Huts)

From

kr.304990

Min Age

15 years

Duration

7 days

Overview

National Geographic has chosen this incredible trek as one of the top twenty hikes worldwide, and it certainly lives up to its esteemed reputation.

Highlights Of The Tour

Laugavegur trail hike

✓ Fjallabak Nature Reserve

✓ Landmannalaugar

✓ Thorsmork valley

✓ Lake Alftavatn

✓ Eyjafjallajökull volcano

✓ Fimmvörduháls pass

✓ Magni and Móði craters

✓ South Coast sightseeing

✓ Hiking in Sólheimajökull glacier

✓ Seljalandfoss waterfall

 ✓ Skógafoss waterfal

Included/Exclude

  • Transport
  • English guided service
  • Accommodation in mountain huts
  • Meals (except for breakfast on the first day, and lunch and dinner on the 7th day)
  • Luggage transport from hut to hut

Tour Amenities

Accepts Credit Cards
Car Parking
Free Coupons

Tour Plan

About the Tour

Embark on a six-day adventure through the awe-inspiring landscapes of the Icelandic Highlands, venturing through iconic locations like Landmannalaugar, Thorsmork, and Fimmvörðuháls. Along the way, you’ll marvel at the breathtaking sights, from the vibrant rhyolite mountains of Landmannalaugar to the serene valleys of Thorsmork.

Each day brings new wonders to explore, including jet-black deserts, glistening obsidian fields, and majestic glaciers. Evenings are spent in cozy mountain huts, fostering camaraderie among fellow travelers as you prepare meals together.

If you’re fortunate, you may catch a glimpse of the Northern Lights painting the sky with their dancing colors. The trek culminates in Thorsmork Valley, a verdant oasis steeped in Norse mythology and volcanic history.

On the final day, immerse yourself in Iceland’s iconic south coast, where cascading waterfalls and volcanic beaches await. This tour offers an unforgettable journey through the land of fire and ice, showcasing the diverse beauty of Iceland at every turn.

 REYKJAVIK – LANDMANNALAUGAR

We begin our adventure early on day one, meeting up at the Reykjavik tourist information center between 7:00 and 7:30 am. From there, we embark on a scenic journey to Landmannalaugar, which typically takes about 3-4 hours, depending on the time of year. Along the way, we’ll pass by Hekla, Iceland’s most active volcano, and other stunning sights.

Upon reaching Landmannalaugar, we’ll be greeted by a breathtaking geothermal paradise, boasting colorful rhyolite mountains and steaming hot springs. Our trail leads us across the rugged Laugahraun lava field, providing a stark contrast to the vibrant rainbow-colored mountains that surround us. We’ll soon catch sight of the magnificent Brennisteinsalda volcano, adorned with striking hues of green, red, and blue from sulfur deposits. Our accommodation for the night will be the remote Landmannalaugar huts.

The day’s trek covers a distance of 8 km (4.9 mi) over approximately 4 hours, with an ascent of 470 m (1540 ‘).

 LANDMANNALAUGAR – ALFTAVATN (WHOOPER SWAN LAKE)

On day two, we kick off with a hearty Icelandic breakfast to fuel our adventure ahead. Our journey leads us to Hrafntinnusker, an intriguing obsidian desert renowned for its surreal appearance. The Reykjafjoll Mountains, adorned with snow-capped peaks, offer breathtaking vistas of the surrounding landscape. Descending into the verdant valley of Jökultungur, we’re greeted by rocks tinged with vibrant red and yellow hues, a testament to the region’s volcanic history.

As we traverse through Jökultungur, the scenery transitions to a darker, palagonite black, adding a dramatic contrast. Weather permitting, we’ll make our way to the summit of Mt. Haskerdingur for panoramic views of the mountains, glaciers, and lakes below. Alternatively, we’ll embark on a journey through the winding paths of Jökultungur Mountain, reaching its summit to marvel at the scenic wonders of Fjallabak Nature Reserve and serene Lake Álftavatn.

Descending past the lush oasis of River Grashagakvisl, we’ll cross a small stream before arriving at Lake Álftavatn, also known as “Whooper Swan Lake,” where we’ll spend the night amidst picturesque surroundings.

The day’s trek covers a distance of 24 km (14.9 mi) over approximately 7-8 hours, with an ascent of 900 m (2950 ‘).

 ALFTAVATN LAKE – EMSTRUR

On day three, we pick up where we left off, crossing the stream once again as we delve further into the breathtaking Icelandic Highlands. We’ll navigate around the captivating Stórasúla volcano, a verdant gem that punctuates the dark landscape, offering a picture-perfect sight that’s a favorite among photographers. Our journey then leads us into the striking volcanic desert of Mælifellssandur.

Mælifellssandur is truly one-of-a-kind, with its pitch-black sands crisscrossed by icy blue glacial streams, creating a mesmerizing contrast that ranks it among the world’s most beautiful places. At its heart lies Mt. Mælifell, a lush grass-covered mountain that stands out against the dark backdrop. The entire area is a feast for the eyes and a must-visit destination for every adventurer’s bucket list.

Our next stop is Emstrur, a lush valley where Icelandic farmers have historically grazed their sheep. Finally, we’ll reach the Markarfljótsgljúfur Canyon, sculpted by the glacial river that flows through it. We’ll conclude our day’s journey at Botnar, where we’ll take in more awe-inspiring scenery and prepare for the adventures that await us on the following day.

The day’s trek covers a distance of 15 km (9.5 mi) over approximately 6-7 hours, with a descent of 40 m (130 ‘)

 EMSTRUR-THORSMORK VALLEY

On day four, we’ll kick off with a hearty Icelandic breakfast before setting our sights on the legendary Thorsmork Valley, nestled between two towering glaciers. Starting near the impressive Myrdalsjokull Glacier, which dominates the landscape, we’ll pass by the distinctive Einhyrningur (The Unicorn) mountain, named for its resemblance to the mythical creature.

Continuing our journey, we’ll enter the lush birch forest that marks our arrival at Thorsmork, a vibrant oasis known as the jewel of Iceland’s highlands. According to Icelandic legend, Thorsmork was created by a powerful blow from Thor’s hammer, adding to its mystique. We’ll spend the evening in this enchanting valley, surrounded by towering glaciers and majestic mountains, immersing ourselves in its mythical atmosphere.

The day’s trek covers a distance of 15 km (9.5 mi) over approximately 6-7 hours, with a descent of 300 m (985 ‘).

 HIKING TO MAGNI AND MODI VOLCANO, FIMMVORDUHALS PASS

On day five, our journey leads us to a breathtaking mountain pass nestled between the imposing Eyjafjallajokull and Myrdalsjokull Glaciers. This ever-changing landscape showcases the new features known as Magni and Modi, named after Thor’s sons in Icelandic folklore, born from the 2010 eruption that made headlines worldwide.

En route, we’ll encounter a lava waterfall frozen in time, a striking reminder of nature’s immense power. Upon reaching the pass summit, we’ll be treated to mesmerizing panoramic views of the surrounding area. Afterward, we’ll retrace our steps and return to the enchanting Thorsmork Valley, where a delicious grilled lamb dinner awaits us.

The day’s trek covers a distance of 16 km (10 mi) over approximately 7-8 hours, with an ascent of 800 m (2600 ‘).

 THORSMORK VALLEY-HELLA

On our last day in the Icelandic Highlands, we have a bit more flexibility in our plans. We could venture out to explore the fascinating volcanoes of Katla and Eyjafjallajokull, which have shaped the stunning landscape surrounding Thorsmork Valley.

Alternatively, we might choose to hike up to the summit of Valahnukur Mountain, where we can soak in breathtaking views of the valley below. For those who prefer a more leisurely day, there’s always the option to simply relax and enjoy the majestic beauty of Thorsmork, or venture out in smaller groups to explore other nearby attractions.

After our day of exploration, we’ll make our way back to civilization and spend the night at a cozy country hotel in Hella, where we can enjoy a well-deserved rest before embarking on our final adventure along the South Coast.

The day’s activities cover a distance of approximately 6 km (3.5 mi) with a hiking time of around 3 hours, and an ascent of 275 m (902 ‘).

 SOUTH COAST EXPLORATION

On the seventh day, we kick off early as we set our sights on Iceland’s renowned South Coast, famous for its breathtaking waterfalls, majestic glaciers, volcanic beaches, and dramatic landscapes.

Our first stop is the iconic Seljalandsfoss waterfall, where a powerful stream of water plunges around 60 meters into the valley below. What makes this waterfall even more special is the hidden cave behind it, offering a unique perspective of this natural wonder.

Next on our list is the mighty Solheimajokull Glacier, a mesmerizing tongue of ice extending from the larger Myrdalsjokull Glacier. Known for its intricate crevices, deep craters, and rugged rock formations, it’s no wonder this glacier is a popular attraction in Iceland.

Upon reaching our base camp near the glacier, our knowledgeable guides will equip us with all the necessary gear and provide a brief safety overview. Then, we embark on a captivating one-hour hike, immersing ourselves in the enchanting beauty of this icy wilderness.

Our journey concludes with a visit to the majestic Skogafoss waterfall, where torrents of water cascade 60 meters down the cliffside into the valley below. A winding path leads us up the hillside, offering stunning panoramic views of the surroundings. Along the way, we encounter two intriguing rock formations known as the trolls, steeped in local legend.

Exploring Iceland’s South Coast is the perfect finale to our adventure, allowing us to experience the essence of this captivating land of fire and ice.

What To Bring

  • 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 huts/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

Cancellation Policy

More than 14 days’ notice                                           100% refund

Less than 14 days’ notice                                             50% refund

Less than 48 hours notice                                            No refund

Cancellations or amendments with more than 14 days’ notice before trip departure:

You will be refunded 100% of the total tour price.

Cancellations or amendments with less than 14 days’ notice before trip departure:

You will be refunded 50% of your total tour price. 50% is non-refundable, as this represents our direct cost of canceling any arrangements made for your tour.

Cancellations or amendments with less than 48-hours’ notice before trip departure:

No refund will be given if tours are canceled or if amendments are made with less than 48 hours’ notice, as Tourism Iceland will be charged for all costs such as guides, transport, etc.

Extras and rental gear, booked as part of a multi-day tour fall under the terms as stated here above.

Sea Kayaking

Sea Kayaking

One of the most exhilarating ways to experience Antarctica, the Arctic and beyond.

Sea kayaking holidays in the humbling wilderness of Antarcticathe Arctic, and some of the world’s most biodiverse regions, are guaranteed to stir your soul. Paddle between brash ice and icebergs of all shapes and sizes, absorbing the majestic scenery as it unfolds before you. 

In Antarctica, keep your camera on-hand for unforgettable encounters with penguins, seals and whales, and occasionally leopard seals or orcas. In the Arctic, prepare to  paddle under nesting bird colonies, past massive glaciers and around large iceberg. 

Led by experienced guides, you and your small group of like-minded adventurers will paddle between ice floes, brash ice and icebergs of all shapes and sizes. Paddling is one of the best ways to access and intimately explore the beautiful coastlines we visit and therefore make the most of your time in the wild and remote destinations we visit

Top reasons to choose a Sea Kayaking holiday

Annotation 2023-04-28 030538

See wildlife unobtrusively

Kayaking is one of the best ways to spot rare wildlife, from penguins to puffins.

Annotation 2023-04-28 030913

Better access

Access intimate bays and coves that bigger crafts can’t reach.​

Annotation 2023-04-28 030939

Knowledgeable guides

Our experienced sea kayak guides will help bring your chosen destination to life.

Annotation 2023-04-28 031035

Become an expert

Hone your kayaking skills and gain a hobby for life!

Annotation 2023-04-28 031035

Make friends

Become lifelong friends with your small group of like-minded adventurers.

Annotation 2023-04-28 031119

Stay fit on your holiday

Being active every day on your holiday means you don’t have to feel guilty about being spoilt by our expert chefs!

Annotation 2023-04-28 031119

Enhance your experience

Add another layer to your once-in-a-lifetime holiday and make the most out of your time in some of the most remote places on earth.

Annotation 2023-04-28 031213

It's fun!

Have the time of your life exploring some of the wildest places on earth from the water.

FAQs

Our guide to paddler ratio is 1:10 and we provide an accompanying safety Zodiac. There are 26 places available in Antarctica and tropical voyages, 20 in temperate regions, South Georgia and all Arctic trips except in Franz Josef Land where the maximum is 16 kayakers.

Kayakers must be 14 or over.

Sea kayaking is offered in place of regular shore excursions. We aim to paddle as often as possible. Depending on the voyage, we generally aim to paddle twice per day.

We will give you a drybag for extra clothing, binoculars and anything that needs to be kept dry. You should also carry a water bottle. We recommend bringing a waterproof camera or phone, or ensuring you have a good quality waterproof case.

If the weather changes during our outing we will head back to the ship and perhaps join a shore excursion. The ship’s captain, expedition leader and kayak guide always maintain close contact to ensure a safe paddling experience. We do not attempt to paddle too far away from the ship. The emphasis is on experiencing the destination rather than travelling long distances.

The kayaks are made with a hard plastic and are easily paddled in swell and conducting shore landings, and through small patches of brash ice. We manoeuvre around the larger ice chunks and floes.

Polar regions

Kayaking in the poles offers a unique wildlife viewing experience. In Antarctica, we have many opportunities to encounter penguins, seals and whales, and occasionally we may even spot leopard seals or orcas. In the Arctic, we’ll paddle under nesting bird colonies, past massive glaciers and around large icebergs, however we maintain a safe distance from polar bears and walruses. Our guides carry rifles and flare guns in the Arctic to ensure your safety against polar bears.

Temperate regions

Kayakers in wild temperate regions will have a unique wildlife experience, with possible encounters with seals and basking sharks. You will have the opportunity to view some of the largest sea bird colonies in the northern hemisphere.

Tropical regions

The superb wildlife-viewing opportunities are endless in the astonishingly biodiverse nature reserves we visit. Kayaks offer a unique opportunity to view marine and land mammals, coral reefs, tropical fish, sea birds and an astonishing range of rainforest birds. We will bring our snorkelling gear with us during our paddles and take advantage of any opportunities to view marine life up close.

In the unlikely event of a capsize, your experienced guide will assist by righting the kayak, stabilising it then pumping it out. Paddlers will re-enter with the guide’s help, or with a support Zodiac. With drysuits and warm clothing underneath you will be comfortable in cold water for up to half an hour. Note that the kayaks have separate compartments with bulkheads, which means they will float after a capsize.

No. Each kayaking place is for one person only. Passengers are unable to share a kayaking place as we customise the kayaks and dry suits for each individual kayaker at the beginning of each voyage.

Contact Us

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Balcony Stateroom Superior

Deck: 4 & 6

Cabin and balcony combined size: 29.2m² – 35.2m² (314.3ft² – 378.9ft²)

Beds: 
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King bed

 
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Twin beds

Features

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Private en-suite (wheelchair accessible)

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Private balcony

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Full size window

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Desk area

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Closet space

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Room-controlled thermostat

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Room safe

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42″ flat-screen TV

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Mini bar*

Cabin Inclusion

  • 1 x 3-in-1 polar jacket per person (polar voyages only)

Some of these rooms are equipped with wheelchair accessible bathrooms.

*Please note mini bar items are chargeable in all cabins except Junior Suite and Captain’s Suite

Sea Kayaking

Sea Kayaking

One of the most exhilarating ways to experience Antarctica, the Arctic and beyond.

Sea kayaking holidays in the humbling wilderness of Antarcticathe Arctic, and some of the world’s most biodiverse regions, are guaranteed to stir your soul. Paddle between brash ice and icebergs of all shapes and sizes, absorbing the majestic scenery as it unfolds before you. 

In Antarctica, keep your camera on-hand for unforgettable encounters with penguins, seals and whales, and occasionally leopard seals or orcas. In the Arctic, prepare to  paddle under nesting bird colonies, past massive glaciers and around large iceberg. 

Led by experienced guides, you and your small group of like-minded adventurers will paddle between ice floes, brash ice and icebergs of all shapes and sizes. Paddling is one of the best ways to access and intimately explore the beautiful coastlines we visit and therefore make the most of your time in the wild and remote destinations we visit

Top reasons to choose a Sea Kayaking holiday

Annotation 2023-04-28 030538

See wildlife unobtrusively

Kayaking is one of the best ways to spot rare wildlife, from penguins to puffins.

Annotation 2023-04-28 030913

Stay fit on your holiday

Being active every day on your holiday means you don’t have to feel guilty about being spoilt by our expert chefs!

Annotation 2023-04-28 030939

Knowledgeable guides

Our experienced sea kayak guides will help bring your chosen destination to life.

Annotation 2023-04-28 031035

Enhance your experience

Add another layer to your once-in-a-lifetime holiday and make the most out of your time in some of the most remote places on earth.

Annotation 2023-04-28 031035

Make friends

Become lifelong friends with your small group of like-minded adventurers.

Annotation 2023-04-28 031119

Better access

Access intimate bays and coves that bigger crafts can’t reach.​

Annotation 2023-04-28 031119

Become an expert

Hone your kayaking skills and gain a hobby for life!

Annotation 2023-04-28 031213

It's fun!

Have the time of your life exploring some of the wildest places on earth from the water.

FAQs

Our guide to paddler ratio is 1:10 and we provide an accompanying safety Zodiac. There are 26 places available in Antarctica and tropical voyages, 20 in temperate regions, South Georgia and all Arctic trips except in Franz Josef Land where the maximum is 16 kayakers.

Kayakers must be 14 or over.

Sea kayaking is offered in place of regular shore excursions. We aim to paddle as often as possible. Depending on the voyage, we generally aim to paddle twice per day.

Sea kayaking is offered in place of regular shore excursions. We aim to paddle as often as possible. Depending on the voyage, we generally aim to paddle twice per day.

If the weather changes during our outing we will head back to the ship and perhaps join a shore excursion. The ship’s captain, expedition leader and kayak guide always maintain close contact to ensure a safe paddling experience. We do not attempt to paddle too far away from the ship. The emphasis is on experiencing the destination rather than travelling long distances.

The kayaks are made with a hard plastic and are easily paddled in swell and conducting shore landings, and through small patches of brash ice. We manoeuvre around the larger ice chunks and floes.

Polar regions

Kayaking in the poles offers a unique wildlife viewing experience. In Antarctica, we have many opportunities to encounter penguins, seals and whales, and occasionally we may even spot leopard seals or orcas. In the Arctic, we’ll paddle under nesting bird colonies, past massive glaciers and around large icebergs, however we maintain a safe distance from polar bears and walruses. Our guides carry rifles and flare guns in the Arctic to ensure your safety against polar bears.

Temperate regions

Kayakers in wild temperate regions will have a unique wildlife experience, with possible encounters with seals and basking sharks. You will have the opportunity to view some of the largest sea bird colonies in the northern hemisphere.

Tropical regions

The superb wildlife-viewing opportunities are endless in the astonishingly biodiverse nature reserves we visit. Kayaks offer a unique opportunity to view marine and land mammals, coral reefs, tropical fish, sea birds and an astonishing range of rainforest birds. We will bring our snorkelling gear with us during our paddles and take advantage of any opportunities to view marine life up close.

In the unlikely event of a capsize, your experienced guide will assist by righting the kayak, stabilising it then pumping it out. Paddlers will re-enter with the guide’s help, or with a support Zodiac. With drysuits and warm clothing underneath you will be comfortable in cold water for up to half an hour. Note that the kayaks have separate compartments with bulkheads, which means they will float after a capsize.

No. Each kayaking place is for one person only. Passengers are unable to share a kayaking place as we customise the kayaks and dry suits for each individual kayaker at the beginning of each voyage.

Contact Us

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