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Three Day Fimmvörðuháls hiking tour

This hike over Fimmvörðuháls is probably the best known in Iceland, along with the Laugavegur trek. This popular trail marks the sighting of the first phase of the 2010 eruption of Eyjafjallajökull. Since then, the Fimmvörðuháls hike has become a real hot spot showcasing spectacular nature and exciting geological features. The trail goes from the nature reserve of Þórsmörk, up between the two glaciers Eyjafjallajökull and Mýrdalsjökull**,** then travels over the newly batch of formed lava. From there, we travel pass the two newest craters Magni and Móði formed in the eruption, before descending to the lowlands on the southern side. Afterwards, we are finally greeted by the great Skógarfoss waterfall with the Atlantic coast residing in a short distance. This astonishing diversity makes this short trek another favourite in Iceland. Accommodation in mountain huts dormitory style and sleeping bags are included.

Note: that the tour has no transportation of luggage and is therefore light backpacking.

Total walking distance: 22 km. (13,6 miles)
Altitude: 150-1100 m. (490-3600 feet)
Maximum Ascent: 1000 m. (3280 feet)

Day 1: Reykjavík - Þórsmörk
From the Reykjavik BSI bus terminal we take the regular public bus at 08:00 am to the beautiful Þórsmörk valley behind the glaciers in the south highlands. We arrive in Þórsmörk around noon and after lunch we’ll have the opportunity to explore this natural wonder and enjoy the picturesque scenery. Night in one of the huts in Þórsmörk. Note: you will meet your guide and some of the group members in Þórsmörk - the bus ride is therefore unguided.

Day 2: Þórsmörk - Fimmvörðuháls
Leaving Þórsmörk we cross the river Krossá on a footbridge entering the magic landscapes of Goðalönd – the abode of the Gods. Nesting at the foot of two glaciers this is a wonderland of ridges and cliffs covered by a multitude of flowers and grasses, certainly fit for gods and humans alike. Even the elves have made themselves at home here. We continue up the hills leading to the pass of Fimmvörðuháls, walking along the Kattarhryggir ridges with views to the impressive mountain of Útigönguhöfði up to Morinsheiði heath. A the end of the Morinsheiði plateu we enjoy the view of the lava stream that flowed down from the Fimmvörðuháls volcano in March and early April 2010. The lava is all set with different outlets of fuming steam and decorated with green and yellow sulphur. As we gain height above Morinsheiði we come again to the lava and then to the two craters Magni and Móði that erupted prior to the main Eyjafjallajökull crater. We cross the brand new lava just at the foot of the magnificent red craters, through places were the lava is almost glowing warm inside the fissures and cracks on its surface. After crossing safely the lava we get a view to the lava and the craters from a hill on the other side, before crossing the néves of the high pass of Fimmvörðuháls, to get to the hut between the glaciers Eyjafjallajökull and Mýrdalsjökull, where we set up for the night.

**Distance:**12-14 km (7-9 mi) Walking time: 6-7 hrs Ascent: 900 m (2953’)

Day 3: Fimmvörðuháls - Skógar - Reykjavík

After a night between the two glaciers we head down to Skógar. At the beginning, the path takes us over a desolate heath an old hut that does not offer much shelter any more. We come to the Skógaá River and follow the river exploring its many hidden gorges, and waterfalls all the way to the famous Skógafoss waterfall. The river and its surroundings offer great scenery. The coast seems to be within arm´s reach and you can almost feel the surf on your cheeks. Arriving at Skógafoss, we hop on the scheduled bus to Reykjavík. Arrival at Reykjavik BSI bus terminal at 7:20 pm, where the trip ends.

**Distance:**12-13km (7-8 mi) Walking time: 6-7 hrs Descent: 1000 m (3280’)

What's included

Guide for 3 days
Public transportation to and from Reykjavík
Food for 3 days (from lunch day 1 to lunch day 3)
Accommodation in Mountain Huts, dormitory style
Transfer of luggage
Sleeping bags

What do I need to bring

Boots and Clothing:

  • Sturdy Hiking Boots – waterproof with good ankle support.
  • Long sleeve shirt (thermal underwear) – Wool or synthetic.
  • T-shirt (thermal underwear) – Wool or synthetic.
  • Light wool or fleece sweater (2nd layer).
  • Trousers – Strong and light material that dries quickly e.g. soft-shell.
  • Jacket with a good hood – windproof, waterproof and breathable, e.g. Gore-Tex or comparable.
  • Rain trousers – windproof, waterproof and breathable. Please note that full raingear is mandatory in Iceland.
  • Gloves – Wool or synthetic 2 pairs of different thickness.
  • Socks – Wool or synthetic. Two or three pairs.
  • Warm hat – Wool or synthetic.

Other gear:

  • A duffel bag for the transport of your overnight gear between huts. Please avoid bringing a suitcase!
  • Backpack for extra clothes and food during the day. 25 – 40L (1500 – 2500 cu in)
  • River shoes – Walking sandals or old running shoes with a good grip are a good choice, along with a pair of warm socks or neoprene socks. Open sandals or flip-flops will not do the job.
  • Light Sleeping bag
  • Towel – light weight and packable.
  • Sunglasses & sun protection.
  • Water container – thermos flask or water bottle 0,5 – 1L.
  • Headlamp for reading and getting around the hut.
  • Casual clothes / change of clothes for wearing in the hut.
  • Personal first aid kit – including blister care.
  • Prescription medication and other personal health items.
  • Toiletries; Toothbrush, toothpaste, soap etc.
  • Earplugs

Optional gear:

  • Walking pole(s) - recommended.
  • Gaiters
  • Neoprene socks – highly recommended for river crossings.
  • Pen knife.
  • Sun/rain Hat or a Cap. Shorts
  • Thermal mat (for lunch breaks).
  • Puffy jacket (e.g. Primaloft or down)
  • Camera, spare batteries and a memory card or films.
  • Dry-bags for electronics and extra clothing.
  • Slippers for indoor use.
  • Aperitif or other heart-warming spirits.

Attention

Note: you will be meeting your guide and part of the group in Þórsmörk.


Three Day Fimmvörðuháls hiking tour

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