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The trek, which features six base camps combining campsites and mountain huts, can be completed in a maximum of five stages.
The trek begins at Landmannalaugar, then continues to Höskuldsskáli, Álftavatn, Hvanngil and Emstrur, before ending at Thorsmork (Þórsmörk).
The mountain huts are expensive, although they do not serve meals or breakfast. You should pack enough food for the number of days planned. You can only stock up on tinned food and dried provisions at the start in Landmannalaugar and at the finish in Thorsmork.
The climate in Iceland is harsh; temperatures rarely rise above 15°C. Hikers must be equipped with suitable clothing and footwear to cope with sudden changes in the weather, frequent rainfall, fog and, above all, the most unpleasant of winds – which are almost daily and can be violent at times.
To cross fords, bring hiking poles and lightweight plastic sandals that dry quickly. When crossing large, turbulent fords, carry your rucksack on one shoulder so you can easily take it off. If your rucksack becomes waterlogged should you lose your balance, it will be difficult to free yourself from it and you may be swept away by the current; the risk of drowning is imminent. It is best to cross these in the morning before the meltwater rises. Choose the widest crossing point, where the current is weaker, and proceed with caution, walking slightly against the current but without letting the water rise above your crotch, as this could cause you to lose your balance.
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