Hiking in Iceland's Highlands: Laugavegur Trek - 7 Days

Embark on the famed Laugavegur Trail on this seven-day Icelandic trek. Journey through active, geothermal lava fields, the Rhyolite Mountains, and snow-covered passes. Cross through a black-sand desert and land in a native forest. Learn about wild and rare plants and animals, and soak in the hot springs along the way. This scenic-yet-basic camping trek allows you to maximize your time in this unique destination. You can choose to travel with just a day pack (luggage storage can be arranged), and you can opt for a guided or self-guided tour, depending on preference.

5 Days in Iceland - 6 Unique Itinerary Ideas

Five days may seem like a short amount of time for an eventful trip to Iceland, but with the right itinerary, a rental car, and internal flights at your disposal, you can explore the highlights in up to three regions. Tour popular spots like the Golden Circle and South Coast, or venture to areas with less tourist traffic—the Snaefellsnes Peninsula, Lake Mývatn, and the Eastfjords are all great picks. Going in winter? Check out itinerary #6 to make sure the most of the snow, ice, and Northern Lights.

Golden Circle, South Coast, & Thorsmork - 5 Days

This fast-paced Icelandic trip spans three regions—the Golden Circle, South Coast, and Thorsmork—and offers plenty to see over the course of five days. Explore Þingvellir National Park and snorkel in the Silfra Fissure in the Golden Circle. Then, view beautiful waterfalls, like Seljalandsfoss and Skogafoss, along with black-sand beaches in the South Coast. Next, take a bus to Thorsmork to embark on a day of hiking trails through the valley, and end in Reykjavik to discover the best of the capital city.

9 Days in Iceland - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas

Nine days is a comfortable amount of time to explore two of Iceland's regions. Consider a leisurely road trip around the famed Ring Road, getting off the main route to spend time in Thorsmork and the Highlands or the Westman Islands (a favorite local hideaway). The five itineraries below take you to popular areas, like the Golden Circle and South Coast, while also incorporating lesser-known territories, including the Snaefellsnes Peninsula and the Westfjords.

8 Days in Iceland - 6 Unique Itinerary Ideas

Eight days is enough for a trip around Ring Road, to either the Golden Circle or the Snaefellsnes Peninsula, with more time set aside for another region. Escape the main routes and spend time in Thorsmörk, along the Laugavegur Trek, or to the locals’ favorite getaway in the Westman Islands. Each trip allows for a bit of time in the capital city, but one night, maximum, is ideal, so you can enjoy more time in other areas of Iceland. Learn more about the best eight-day trip options in the six itineraries outlined below.

The Laugavegur Trek - 8 Days

Discover Iceland's famous Laugavegur Trail on this eight-day adventure. Journey through an active geothermal world of lava fields, the Rhyolite Mountains, and snow-covered passes. Cross through a black-sand desert and reach the enchanting, native forestry. Enjoy the wild and rare flora and fauna, typical Icelandic food, and hot springs. This back-to-basics camping trek follows a rhythm designed to maximize your connection to—and enjoyment of—this unique environment. Available as a guided or self-guided tour, luggage transport can be arranged if you prefer to trek with just a day pack.