Reykjavik: Laugavegur Women-Only 4-day Hiking Tour

Planning a trip to Iceland and craving an adventure that’s both immersive and tailored for women? This women-only hiking tour along the legendary Laugavegur trail offers a unique way to connect with nature and fellow travelers. While I haven’t done this exact tour myself, I’ve sifted through reviews, itineraries, and details to give you an honest, practical look at what you can expect.

What I love about this experience is the opportunity to hike through some of Iceland’s most iconic landscapes with a small, like-minded group. Plus, the fact that it’s guided by women can make a big difference if you’re looking for a more comfortable, empowering environment. On the flip side, it’s quite a strenuous trip, with multiple days of hiking and camping, so it’s not ideal if you’re new to long-distance trekking or have mobility concerns. This adventure seems perfect for women who love outdoor challenges and want a meaningful, social experience in Iceland’s wild heart.

Key Points

• Tailored for women with a small group size (limited to 14) for a more personal experience
• Four days of scenic hiking through diverse landscapes from lava fields to glaciers
• Camping in tents overnight, with meals included and a chance to connect over shared meals
• Expert guidance from a female guide, ensuring safety and support
• Weather and safety considerations mean itineraries may change, so flexibility is key
• Suitable for hikers with a moderate to high fitness level; not ideal for children under 15 or those with mobility issues

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Experience: What It’s Like to Walk the Laugavegur Trail in Iceland

This tour promises a multi-layered adventure through some of Iceland’s most striking scenery, all within a manageable four days. We’ll break down each day of the itinerary and what you can expect, based on the tour details and reviews.

Starting Point: Reykjavik to Landmannalaugar

Your journey kicks off with a scenic drive from Reykjavik to Landmannalaugar. This area is famous for its vibrant rhyolite mountains, geothermal activity, and the lava fields of Laugahraun. Think of it as Iceland’s colorful playground. The drive itself offers beautiful vistas, setting the tone for what’s to come.

Once in Landmannalaugar, you’ll settle into the campsite — a cozy base amidst the wild. The highlight here is the chance to hike up to the Brennisteinsalda volcano and the colorful peaks of Landmannalaugar itself. According to reviews, the landscape here is jaw-dropping, with many noting the “beautiful, otherworldly scenery” and “vivid colors that change with the sunlight.”

Day Two: From Lava Fields to Obsidian Desert

The highlight of this day is hiking through the Hrafntinnusker obsidian desert — a vast, black volcanic landscape that feels like walking on glass. You’ll also traverse the Reykjafjöll rhyolite mountains, with stunning views of Álftavatn lake and the expansive Fjallabak Nature Reserve.

The hike up to the Jökultungur summit offers panoramic vistas, and the sense of accomplishment is palpable. One reviewer mentioned how “walking through the obsidian desert was surreal, almost like stepping into a different planet.” This day is physically demanding but incredibly rewarding, especially if you enjoy diverse terrains.

Spending the night at the Álftavatn Campsite allows you to relax, share stories over dinner, and stargaze — a real treat given Iceland’s clear night skies.

Day Three: Desert, Glaciers, and Canyon Views

This leg takes you through the Mælifellssandur desert, with views of the glaciers Eyjafjallajökull and Mýrdalsjökull. The landscape here is a mix of sand dunes, volcanic formations, and glacial views, providing photographers with plenty of photo ops. You’ll also see the Markarfljótsgljúfur canyon, carved over centuries by the glacial waters.

The trek culminates at the Emstrur Campsite, where you’ll get a sense of the vastness and power of Icelandic nature. Several reviews highlight the “amazing variety” of scenery and how the day’s hike felt like a journey through multiple Icelandic landscapes — from volcanic deserts to lush canyon walls.

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Final Day: Glaciers and Thorsmork Valley

On your last day, you’ll hike past Mount Einhyrningur and enjoy sweeping views of glaciers and the Thorsmork valley, a lush, mossy area nestled between mountains. This part wraps up the trek on a high note, with a sense of achievement as you head back to Reykjavik by bus.

Travel back to the city feels like a well-earned rest after days of active exploration. Some reviews note that this return journey offers the perfect time to reflect and take in the final views.

What’s Included and What to Consider

The small group size (up to 14 participants) enhances the experience by allowing for more personal attention and camaraderie. The tour is guided in English, ensuring clear communication. The tents are described as comfortable expedition tents, which is fairly standard, but keep in mind you’ll need to bring your own sleeping bag.

Meals are included, and sharing them with your fellow hikers adds to the communal spirit. However, if you have specific dietary restrictions like vegetarian, vegan, or gluten-free, you’ll need to purchase the extra food option. Some reviews mention that meal preparation is a shared activity, so being comfortable helping out or at least willing to participate makes the trip smoother.

Transportation from Reykjavik is via a scenic bus ride, and the tour is structured to balance activity with rest, but it’s definitely physically demanding. The itinerary is subject to change due to weather, which is just part of Iceland’s unpredictable climate, so flexibility is essential.

Who should consider this tour?

This experience is best suited for women with an intermediate to high fitness level who are comfortable with multi-day trekking and camping. It’s not suitable for children under 15 or those with mobility impairments. If you’re looking for a guided, social adventure that combines challenge and breathtaking scenery, this tour hits the mark.

The Value of This Tour

At its core, this tour offers an immersive, guided experience into Iceland’s wild landscapes, with the added benefit of being women-only, which can foster a supportive environment. The small group size and expert guide ensure safety and tailored attention. The camping aspect keeps costs lower than luxury lodges but requires readiness to sleep in tents and participate in meal prep.

If you’re someone who appreciates hands-on adventure — helping with meals, sharing stories around a campfire, and navigating diverse terrains — this trip delivers. The four days of hiking through stunning landscapes, from volcanic deserts to glacier views, are bound to leave lasting impressions.

Price-wise, the value lies in the guided support, accommodation, meals, and transportation included. While it’s a physically demanding experience, the opportunity to connect, challenge yourself, and witness Iceland’s raw beauty makes it worthwhile for the right traveler.

Final Thoughts: Who Is This Tour Best For?

This women-only hiking tour is a solid choice if you’re a woman who loves outdoor adventures, doesn’t mind camping, and wants to explore Iceland’s famous landscapes with a small, friendly group. It’s perfect for those seeking a bit of a challenge, an authentic connection to nature, and a chance to share an experience with other women in a safe, encouraging environment.

However, if you’re new to multi-day hiking or have mobility issues, you might want to consider whether your fitness level and camping comfort align with this itinerary. The flexibility in the itinerary due to weather is a plus, but it also means you should be prepared for possible changes.

All in all, for women ready to tackle Iceland’s rugged beauty and enjoy a supportive community, this tour offers a memorable, rewarding way to experience the country’s wild side.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for beginners?
This tour is more suited for those with moderate to high fitness levels. It involves multiple days of hiking and camping, so beginners might find it challenging.

What should I pack for the trip?
Bring comfortable hiking shoes, warm clothing, a hat, sunglasses, a camera, waterproof hiking pants, a reusable water bottle, and a sleeping bag. Also, pack toiletries, weather-appropriate clothes, and any personal essentials.

Are meals included?
Yes, meals are included in the tour, but if you have specific dietary needs (vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free), you will need to purchase the extra food option.

Can I participate if I travel alone?
Yes. Solo travelers will be paired in twin tents, so you’ll share accommodations with another participant of the same gender.

What if the weather turns bad?
The itinerary is subject to change depending on weather and safety considerations. The guide will make adjustments as needed, prioritizing safety.

How many people are in each group?
Groups are limited to 14 participants to ensure a more personalized, intimate experience.

Is the tour physically demanding?
Yes, the daily hikes are of moderate to high difficulty, suitable for those with an average fitness level. It involves walking on lava fields, up mountains, and over deserts.

What is the accommodation like?
You’ll sleep in comfortable expedition tents at designated campsites, with basic amenities.

What’s the main highlight of this trip?
Walking through Iceland’s diverse landscapes — from volcanic deserts and obsidian plains to glaciers and lush valleys — all guided by an experienced woman leader.

If you’re up for a physically engaging, visually stunning adventure with a supportive female community, this tour could be just what you need to see Iceland from a truly special perspective.

You can check availability for your dates here: