ICELAND FIRE AND ICE TREK

Challenge yourself on an adventure across the volcanos and glaciers of Iceland

The Iceland Fire and Ice Trek





ABOUT THE CHALLENGE


Rated one of the top 20 best hikes in the world by National Geographic

Welcome to the Laugavegur trail, a unique and immersive experience which takes adventurers deep into the heart of Iceland, beginning at the geothermal hot spots of Landmannlaugar and hiking through to the green valleys of Thórsmörk on a journey like no other. 

Find yourself trekking through bright rhyolite mountains, past vast Icelandic canyons, across deserts of black sand, past glaciers, glacial lakes and next to waterfalls all that date back thousands of years.

7 days in total, with 5 days of hiking, and time in the capital to explore. Join us and discover the beauty of Iceland. 

All our challenges are inclusive of accommodation, guides, food and in country transport. 

2023-24 CHALLENGES

Choose from a university specific challenge, or join one of our student open groups

For your full itinerary, FAQ's, what's included / not included and sign up please select 'INFO' on your preferred option below.

Iceland - Fire and Ice Trek - FINAL LIMITED-RELEASE TREK SPACES

18 - 24 July 2023

Iceland - Fire and Ice Trek - FINAL LIMITED-RELEASE TREK SPACES

Immerse yourself in Iceland's Laugavegur trail, home to ancient glaciers, volcanos and stunning landscapes every step of the way

CHALLENGE ITINERARY

Arriving in Iceland (KEF International) in the afternoon, you will be met by a member of our team and board our shuttle bus into the Reykjavik, where we have a briefing and can prepare for the challenge, staying overnight.

Included: Airport Transfer, Airport Rep, Accommodation (Hostel)

Not Included: Flights, Dinner

  


We awake and meet with the guides at the hostel, before boarding a private transfer minibus into the heart of Iceland, arriving at  Landmannalaugar, the start of our trek. 

Upon arrival in Landmannalaugar, there will be an opportunity to bathe in the hot springs, have lunch and refresh yourself before we begin trekking! 

We start out by crossing the 500-year-old Laugahraun lava flow that is still giving heat to Landmannalaugar hot springs. Climbing steadily past numerous Sulphur vents, we top a succession of rolling rhyolite hills before descending to the steaming hot springs of Stórihver. 

As you climb, the temperature falls, but with this comes an incredible viewpoint of the region that showcases all the forces of nature on the trail. Up on the plateau, steam rises in all directions from unseen vents, whilst thick glaciers and black volcanic rock can be seen all around. 

We reach our accommodation at Hrafntinnusker mountain hut in the late afternoon.

Drive Time: 5 hours

Trek: 12km - Active walking time: 5 hours Ascent: 470m (1540')

Accommodation: Hrafntinnusker Mountain Hut

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner 

Included:  All meals, in country transport, guide, accommodation


We head south from our mountain hut into the canyon complex to the south of Hrafntinnusker. Descending into the gorges of Jökultungur, we come across hundreds of bubbling hot springs and mud pools. 

The route winds southwards, crossing old snow patches and climbing ridges where we have views across dark volcanic plains towards lake Álftavatn and the Mýrdalsjökull and Eyjafjallajökull glaciers. 

Crossing the southern edge of the Torfajökull Massif, we descend a long slope towards the black sands and palagonite ridges around Lake Álftavatn (Swan Lake). Arriving at the lake, one of the most beautiful locations on our route, we check in at the Álftavatn mountain hut. 

Trek: 12km (7.5 miles) Active walking time: 4-5 hours Descent: 490 m (1610 ‘)

Accommodation: Mountain Hut

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner 


  

Today there are several rivers to cross as we head southwards again and towards the Mýrdalsjokull Icecap.

We descend to the green oasis of Hvanngil, a surreal 5-kilometer-wide, black sand plain where vast green volcanos and mountains formed under the ice caps show themselves, the largest of which, Mælifellssandur in front of us alongside the conical peak of Stórasúla. 

Heading now towards Hattfell, another ancient volcano, we reach the Emstrur region where farmers used to graze their sheep in summer. Before arriving at the Botnar Mountain Hut (our accommodation for the night) we visit the magnificent Markarfljót canyon which is cut almost 200 meters down into the rocks south of Hattfell. 

Trek: 16km, Active walking time: 6-7 hours

Accommodation: Mountain Hut

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner 


We head into the canyon and cross the bridge across Emstrur River. Having overcome this, we trek through the magnificent Markarfljót Canyon, which was carved out by thundering floods, caused by volcanic eruptions under the ice cap. 

We then enter a green and well-vegetated valley, which becomes ever greener the closer we get to Þórsmörk. 

The last part of the hike is through thick birch forest, where even the lava ridges are covered with trees and stunning arctic flowers that bloom for a few weeks each summer. 

Þórsmörk means 'Thor's forest' and it is not hard to see why this area should be considered to belong to a Norse God. It is out of this world! 

The valley is guarded on all sides by tremendous, fast-flowing rivers and steep glacier-clad mountains. It is one of the most beautiful spots in Iceland and the favourite weekend retreat of many of Reykjavik's hikers. 

We will stay overnight at one of the Þórsmörk’s huts and have a celebratory BBQ that evening.

Trek: 17km, Active walking time: 6-7 hours

Accommodation: Mountain Huts

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner 


We spend the morning in Þórsmörk, where we set off to trek to the Sönghellir Cave (Song Cave) or to hike up to the viewpoint of Valahnjúkur, from where we can see over the icecaps of Mýrdalsjökull (1460m) and Eyjafjallajökull (1666m). 

After this we catch the bus back Reykjavik. Arriving in the early evening, where our accommodation for the evening is a short 2-minute walk away and you have time to change before heading off to explore Reykjavik. 

Trek: 7km, Active walking time: 4 hours

Accommodation: Hostel

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch


Spend the morning exploring the capital, recovering and saying goodbye to your new friends before we board transport to the airport to return home.

WHAT'S INCLUDED / NOT INCLUDED?

  • Airport transfer to and from your accommodation
  • All meals as specified in itinerary 
  • All accommodation 
  • Professional, English speaking local guides 
  • Luggage transport during the trek (you will only need to carry a day bag during the trek)
  • All entrance fees
  • Transport in country
  • Safe drinking water during the trek
  • In-person support by an Endeavours Representative in-country during the trek
  • 24/7 UK emergency line and support whilst on the challenge
  • Travel Insurance
  • All meals not specified 
  • Optional Tips for guides and porters
  • Personal Spending Money
  • Flights to and from Iceland
  • Vaccinations (if required)
  • Visa's (If required)

THE SPIRIT OF ICELAND - SIGHTS, THRILLS AND CULTURE TOUR





EXTEND YOUR ADVENTURE


Complete your adventure with the ultimate Icelandic tour. Starting with an EPIC snowmobile ride and sightseeing tour to Iceland's famous waterfalls, take to the seas and experience whale watching, and visit some of the country’s gems, including the legendary Gulfoss Falls, Sky Lagoon and ‘Geysir’ all packed along with the chance to experience more of the nation’s rich culture, cuisine and entertainment.    

DAYS - 5         |      DEPOSIT - £195      |      FINAL BALANCE - £600

After deposit (£195) then 3 x £200 payments 

INCLUDES: All accommodation, transport, snowmobile ride, breakfast, whale watching tour, escape room, sky lagoon and spa (transport and entrance) fee, lava tour.

HOW TO SIGN UP: Add 'Extension Trip' as an extra to your main challenge registration fee at check out.*


*Extension trip not required to be chosen at sign up. Can be added after signing up for main challenge up until March 2024.


EXTENSION ITINERARY

We have a free morning together to relax after the trek and explore the city. In the afternoon we head to the centre of the city to start one of the most popular tours in the country, the legendary Reykjavik Food Walk!

From fresh fish, to ice cream, lamb, soups and unique local ingredients, over 6 local restaurants we enjoy 8+ delicious Icelandic cuisines.  

We begin the day by taking on the Golden Circle tour of Iceland. The Golden Circle is a 190-mile (300 kilometers) route of Iceland's three most popular natural attractions: Thingvellir National Park, the Geysir geothermal area and Gullfoss waterfall. 

After seeing Iceland's most popular destinations, we head up to the Icelandic highlands for an accelerating snowmobile ride on the countries second-largest glacier, Langjökull. Shooting across this ice desert on a powerful snowmobile is an experience like nothing else and a trip for the senses. 

*Driving license required for driving snow mobile


We start day 3 by heading to the docks, where we board a boat and take sail in search of Iceland's largest animal, the whale. Witness these magnificent creatures up close on a 3 hour tour around the island.

After returning, following lunch we board a bus and head just outside the capital to one of the highlights of the extension, the lava tunnel. We walk through this 1km long underground tunnel forged 5200 years ago during the Leitahraun eruption, a unique opportunity to get a close look of the impressive forces of nature that emerge from the centre of the earth. 

Today is our final full day in Iceland, so it's time to celebrate your new friends and relax following a fun filled 10 days of activities. 

We start by walking into the city and taking part in a team escape room, testing your problem-solving skills against the clock, before heading to the capitals newest lagoon, the sky lagoon, where you will embark upon the legendary, mind and body cleansing 7 step ritual, and have a celebratory drink in the lagoon whilst watching the sunset, leaving refreshed and recovered from the challenge.

We have one final morning together in the capital to go souvenir shopping, visit some of Reykjavik's famous museums, or simply relax and prepare to return home. Onwards travel is provided to the airport for your flight home.

What people are saying

Challenge Testimonials

The trek was absolutely brilliant, thank you! 

Jacob, Loughborough Iceland 2022

I met some fantastic people, and explored one of the most breath-taking places on earth - and for a good cause.

Megan, Durham Iceland 2023

Thank you so much to Endeavours Adventures for a great trip!

Maisie, Loughborough Iceland 2022

FAQs

Choose your category below to discover FAQ's related to that topic. Should you not be able to find an answer to your question please get in touch with our team.

You will be looked after by accredited, English speaking local guides along with an Endeavours Adventures rep.

Average group sizes vary, but will be between 8 - 17 participants depending on the number of sign ups. 

The accommodation will be in simple mountain huts in dormitories with single and double bunk beds or mattresses. In some huts single participants might need to share a double mattress. Sleeping bag is necessary and can be rented upon request. 

The huts are equipped with gas stoves, kitchen utensils and running cold water. Toilets are in separate huts. 

On night 5 you will stay in private hostel rooms with bunkbeds. 

There are showers available in all huts except for the first night, these cost 500 ISK per 5 minutes (payable by cash or card). You will get a ticket or coins at the warden's huts, where you can pay with cash or card. 

This trek is rated 3/5 on its challenge level of difficulty, as you will be trekking between 4-7 hours each trekking day.

Don't let this stop you though! You will supported throughout the challenge by your guide and fellow team-mates.

On a typical day in Iceland, you will expect to hike between 10-15km each day, trekking through different valleys and immersing yourself within the beautiful landscapes. Each day is different, and each day will be warmer as your trek starts in the north, and finishes further in the south.

Iceland is warmed by the Gulf Stream and has a temperate climate, despite a high latitude just below the Arctic Circle. The high latitude and marine influence still keeps summers rather chilly. The warm North Atlantic Current ensures generally higher annual temperatures than in most places of similar latitude in the world. Despite its proximity to the Arctic, the island's coasts remain ice-free through the winter. 

The climate varies between different parts of the island. Generally speaking, the south coast is warmer, wetter and windier than the north. The Central Highlands are the coldest parts of the country. Low-lying inland areas in the north are the most arid. Snowfall in winter is more common in the north than the south.

Icelandic culture is founded upon the nation's Scandinavian heritage. Most Icelanders are descendants of Germanic and Gaelic (Celtic) settlers. The country's cultural heritage includes traditional Icelandic cuisine, Icelandic literature and medieval sagas. Iceland is the only NATO member without an army, its lightly armed coast guard being in charge of defence. 

Iceland's official written and spoken language is Icelandic, a North Germanic language descended from Old Norse. Their second language is English, and it is spoken fluently.

Below are a couple of useful phrases for travellers in Iceland.

  • Hello: Halló / Góðan dag 
  • Please: Gerðu það
  • Thank you: Takk / Takk fyrir 
  • Do you speak English?: Talar þú ensku?
  • Help me!: Hjálp!

There is no strict dress code in Iceland. However, please ensure you are wearing appropriate trekking clothing and staying respectful to locals. 

Food is important to us. Good and nourishing food makes a good trip even better. All meals and snacks whilst on trek are included in the tour price, unless stated otherwise. 

Endeavours Adventures can cater for all dietary options. At 8 weeks before your challenge start date, a form will be sent to you to request this information. Through this, we will ensure that you are catered for, and will keep you updated on any issues regarding your dietary requests. 

All food is purchased in Reykjavik by our guides prior to the trek, with the emphasis on fresh products and relatively easily prepared meals. Local specialties, including excellent sea-fish, Icelandic lamb, and salmon. 

Breakfasts will consist of porridge, muesli, bread, jam, cheese, ham, plus tea and coffee. At breakfast, snack items and sandwich materials will be made available so that group members can make up their own packed lunches.

Your guide will prepare your evening meals but help with cutting vegetables and doing the dishes is appreciated!

Phone connection can be unstable on the trail, and you might have to the nearest hilltop to find a network. It is not possible to connect to Wi-Fi in any of the huts, but you might be able to connect to 4G in some of them as well as along the trail. 

During the trek, there is no electricity in any of the huts along the way and thus no means of charging electronic devices. Make sure to bring enough power with you, for example solar powered chargers. Battery packs are sold at the huts. 

At Endeavours Adventures we place safety at the heart of what we do. Whilst an element of risk always exists within each challenge, we have worked with our partners in country and implemented our own procedures to minimise risk whilst still ensuring you have an incredible challenge experience! 

All our challenges are risked assessed in line with BS8848 British Standards of Trekking.

The tap water in the huts is very pure and does not need to be filtered. There are also numerous streams and rivers on the way where bottles can be refilled. However, please make sure to ask your guide whether it is safe to drink the water available in both the urban and rural areas.

Bringing re-usable 1L or 2L water bottles on your challenge is compulsory, as you need to have enough water to keep hydrated and well throughout your trek.

There are no required vaccinations for Iceland. However, we recommend that you are up to date with your health vaccinations recommended in the UK. You may also want to consider getting a Tetanus jab, yet this is not compulsory.

Please consult an appointment with a travel nurse if you would like to discuss vaccinations for Iceland.

You can find a travel nurse at a pharmacy, or at a travel clinic at Superdrug & Boots. You can also speak to your GP beforehand if you are unsure where to start.

Citizens of the EU and EEA need their E-111 form to access health services and Scandinavians show insurance and passport to avoid charges. 

We strongly recommend that you bring certain medication as a precaution for your challenge. This includes: painkillers, re-hydration sachets, anti-sickness and diarrhoea medication.  

It is unlikely that you will get altitude sickness on the Iceland Fire and Ice trek.

However, if you are concerned about this, you can bring altitude sickness medication if you wish. You must speak to your GP about this first. 

The best way to combat the symptoms of altitude sickness is to pause your ascent, or to descent from your current point. It is also recommended to drink plenty of water, eat enough food, and get enough rest. 

Many people of different athletic abilities take on the Iceland trek!

We strongly recommend that you practice some form of hiking and start training around 16-18 weeks before the challenge date. If this is not possible for you to do, we would recommend going on regular walks with different types of ground, steepness, and even practice walking with the bag you will wear on the challenge, as well as your walking boots. 

All of this will help prepare your body for the day. Also, committing yourself to enough fitness training beforehand will make the trek more comfortable for you.

A typical trek at this level will include trekking for 4 to 7 hours per day over consecutive days, so it is important to get your body adjusted to this level of activity.

There are no specific exercise routines that you must follow, as everyone is different. However, doing squats regularly as well as step-up exercises, such as the stair master at the gym, is recommended.

The team at Endeavours Adventures do not offer training sessions. However, this may be something that your challenge leader or team could organise throughout the year with you. 

Yes! If you scroll down to the bottom of this page, you will be able to see our training plan guide for you. 

Please be aware that this is just a recommendation - this is for inspiration rather than a requirement.

Flights are not included in the registration fee, and must be arranged by participants themselves. This is because it is cheaper and provides you with more flexibility in terms of when you arrive and depart from the country, should you wish to stay for longer before or after. 

For this challenge, you will need a 20-35L day backpack, which you will be using as your backpack throughout the trek.

You will also need a 60-75L large rucksack to bring all your belongings in. Avoid bringing a suitcase! Please do not exceed 18 kg per person if possible.

In the rare possibility that your large rucksack doesn’t arrive at your destination with you on time, please can you ensure that you pack enough clothing and items for a couple of days in your day bag.

You can find the kit list at the bottom of this page! 

Voltage in Iceland is 220 – 240 Volts. Check your appliances and battery chargers and make sure they are dual voltage. Please note that prongs can be different from your standards. 

The currency in Iceland is called krona (crown), or ISK and all banks change foreign currencies. The use of credit and debit card is also common and almost everywhere they can be used even for the lowest amount. Cash can also be obtained with credit cards at banks and ATMs.

We recommend bringing £75-125 worth of currency.

To consider would be:

  • A tip for the guides and porters during the trek between £25-60 worth of krona each
  • Cash for souvenirs
  • Emergency cash
  • Money for group dinner and drinks on the last night
  • Money for any meals not included in the itinerary and for coffee / snacks you may want on free days
  • Krona / GBP to buy food during the airport journeys there and back

If you want to bring a card, you could also bring your Monzo or Revolut card as extra cash. ATMs are available in areas like Reykjavik.

For Iceland, a visa is not required for UK citizens. UK citizens do not need to procure a visa if they are planning to enter Iceland for tourism-related activities. Without a visa, British nationals can stay inside Iceland for a maximum period of 90 days within any 180-day period in the Schengen Area.

However, if you are an international citizen, it is your responsibility to arrange your own visa to cover the duration of your challenge. You can contact the team at Endeavours Adventures should you need support in this process. 

For our Iceland trek, it is your responsibility to arrange your own travel insurance for the whole duration of your challenge. 

It is important that you get cover that is specific to your challenge, as they all have different requirements. If you have any questions regarding this, please email isabelle.skelly@endeavoursadventures.com.

You are welcome to source your own insurance, but we recommend booking through our supplier

RESOURCES