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Starting point for the Fimmvorduhals trek is usually from Skogafoss waterfall at Skogar. PIC HelloIAmBruce

Starting point for the Fimmvorduhals trek is usually from Skogafoss waterfall at Skogar. PIC HelloIAmBruce

H iking is all the rage in Iceland these days. The reasons are threefold; it is a fantastic way to lose some pounds, it is a way to gain new friends fast and not least the very best way to connect to nature.

Although fascinating hiking routes in Iceland number in hundreds of thousands there are a few that remain massively popular year after year. Not necessarily the best but those offering varied views, not too hard and not too far away from the capital Reykjavik are always number one, two and three.[blockquote type=”blockquote_line” align=”right”]You will also need to carry all supplies for the whole trip[/blockquote]

As you can see on the map the two trails marked are without a doubt two of the most popular. Called Laugavegur hike and Fimmvorduhals hike one can assume there are folks walking these routes non-stop over summertime. Neither one is too difficult but neither is very easy either. Both routes can be hiked in a number of ways but most complete Laugaveg route in two to three days while the Fimmvorduhals is best taken in two days. Do not forget that a number of fabulous sights are to be enjoyed en-route. Along the way in both cases there are shelters and cabins available but these are small and demand far outstrips supply. Book months in advance at least or bring a tent. You will also need to carry all supplies for the whole trip. No shops out here.

  • LAUGAVEGURINN is most often taken from Landmannalaugar in the highland down to Thorsmork in the lowlands. The whole area and whole way is stunning in all respects while also pretty varied. From barren hot spring area in Landmannalaugar to the green valley of Thorsmork and in between almost anything you can think of. Most take buses to Landmannalaugar and start there but some also walk the other way from Thorsmork. The latter is more difficult since the way is up and not down. Basic route between cabins is as follows:
  • Landmannalaugar to Hrafntinnusker – 4 to 5 hours
  • Hrafntinnusker to Alftavatn lake – 4 to 5 hours
  • Alftavatn lake to Emstrur – 6 to 7 hours
  • Emstrur to Thorsmork – 6 to 7 hours.


Sjá Laugavegur hiking route in Iceland á stærra korti

  • FIMMVORDUHALS route is no less stunning and takes folk right by that very famous unpronounceable Eyjafjallajokull volcano. Depending on your exact route it is possible to get quite close to the crater but not advisable unless you have expert guide. This is a glacier after all. We recommend a two day leisurely journey although some complete this in one day. This route also ends in Thorsmork Nature Reserve. Two cabins on the way and same goes here; book well in advance.
  • Skogar to Thorsmork – 8 to 9 hours
    Sjá Fimmvorduhals hiking route á stærra korti