Frequently asked questions

What is the best way to get to and from Landmannalaugar and Þórsmörk?

The roads to both Landmannalaugar and Þórsmörk are diffucult. A 4x4 vehicle is needed to reach both places. Most 4x4 rental cars are allowed to drive to Landmannalaugar and there are no river crossings on the road (if you take roadF208). It is more difficult to reach Þórsmörk. There are many difficult river crossings and most car rental companies forbid their customers to drive to Þórsmörk. Various companies offer highland buses to both Landmannalaugar and Þórsmörk.

What kind of service are on the way?

There are 5 huts along the way. In those huts basics, such as dry food and soda can be bought. It is also possible to sleep inside the huts and you can camp outside of them. The huts have running water and toilets. You can take a shower for a fee in all the huts apart from Hrafntinnusker. There is no service along the track apart from the huts. There are no other toilets or shops during the hike.

Do I need to book accomodation beforehand?

Accomodation inside the huts has to be booked early. It ofen sells out months ahead. Ferðafélag Íslands is the owner of the huts and the stay is booked on their web page. If you are camping there is no need to book beforehand.

Is the hike one way? Is it possible to go from Þórsmörk to Landmannalaugar?

Due to traffic, the hike is one way from Landmannalaugar to Þórsmörk. If you plan on staying inside the only way to book accomodation in the huts is to book the nights from Landmannalaugar towards Þórsmörk.

How does the hike compare to "this or that hike"?

Laugavegur is like no other hike. The stunning landscape, extraordinary geological formations and the geothermal activity is like nothing you have seen before. The climate and conditions are really difficult though. The climate is "winter like" throughout the year, making the hike different from summer hikes in other parts of the world.

Is there any cell phone service during the hike?

There is good cell reception at Landmannalaugar. During the hike there are spots with some phone reception, but in general there is no way to contact the rest of the world.

What should I do if there is an emergency?

Call the emergency number 112 if you are located at a place with cell reception. You can often get reception at the top of hills, mountains or where the view is good. There are highland patrol, rangers and hut wardens in the area that can be of assistance during an emergency.

Do I have to pay to hike?

You do not have to pay to do the hike. You will however have to pay for accomodation along the way.

Is there drinking water along the way?

You can access drinking water from tap in all the huts. The water in small streams along the track is also drinkable, no filtering needed. It is also possible to melt snow.