Highlights of the tour
About Tour
Embark on an unforgettable adventure with the Þórsmörk Hiking Tour, which takes you deep into one of Iceland’s most stunning nature reserves. Þórsmörk, named after the Norse god Thor, is a hidden gem nestled between glaciers and rugged mountains. It’s renowned for its dramatic landscapes, lush valleys, glacial rivers, and volcanic rock formations, making it a paradise for hikers and nature enthusiasts. This tour offers a perfect blend of adventure, breathtaking scenery, and Icelandic natural history.
Why Choose the Þórsmörk Hiking Tour?
- Explore a Stunning Nature Reserve: Þórsmörk is one of Iceland’s most beautiful hiking destinations, with diverse landscapes ranging from verdant valleys and birch forests to glacial rivers and towering mountain peaks.
- Experience the Raw Beauty of the Icelandic Highlands: The tour provides an up-close encounter with Iceland’s unique wilderness, including views of the Eyjafjallajökull and Mýrdalsjökull glaciers, as well as recently formed lava fields from volcanic activity.
- Suitable for All Hiking Levels: With various hiking routes to choose from, the Þórsmörk Hiking Tour offers options for hikers of all skill levels, from beginners looking for a scenic walk to experienced hikers seeking a challenging ascent.
- Expert Local Guides: The tour is led by knowledgeable guides who share insights into the geology, flora, fauna, and folklore of the region, enhancing your understanding and appreciation of the Icelandic highlands.
Highlights of the Þórsmörk Hiking Tour
Breathtaking Views and Varied Landscapes
- The Þórsmörk area is surrounded by dramatic mountain ridges, deep valleys, and braided glacial rivers that create a picturesque setting. The views from the hiking trails encompass a mix of greenery, ice-capped peaks, and volcanic rock formations.
Hike to Valahnúkur Mountain
- One of the most popular routes in Þórsmörk is the hike to Valahnúkur Mountain, where you can enjoy 360-degree panoramic views of the surrounding valleys and glaciers. The climb is moderate and rewarding, with a well-marked trail leading to the summit.
Glacial River Crossings
- Experience the thrill of crossing glacial rivers that flow down from nearby glaciers. While the rivers can be challenging to navigate, your guide will ensure a safe and exciting crossing, adding an adventurous element to your hiking experience.
Stakkholtsgjá Canyon
- Take an optional detour to explore the magnificent Stakkholtsgjá Canyon, a deep gorge with towering walls and a hidden waterfall at its end. This side hike provides a unique opportunity to witness the dramatic volcanic landscape up close.
Witness Volcanic Activity
- Learn about the effects of recent volcanic eruptions, such as the 2010 Eyjafjallajökull eruption, which reshaped the landscape and left behind new lava fields. The hike offers a firsthand look at how Iceland’s volcanic forces continually shape its environment.
Included
- Professional English Speaking Highlands & Mountain Guide
- Super Jeep Tour
- Guided 4 hour Hiking in the Highlands of Iceland
- Pick up and drop off in Hvolsvöllur / Hella area – other pickup location on request
- Beautiful sights and scenery
What to bring
- Sturdy Hiking Boots: Suitable for uneven terrain and possible river crossings.
- Warm, Waterproof Clothing: The weather can change quickly in the highlands. Dress in layers and bring a waterproof jacket.
- Snacks and Water: Keep yourself fueled and hydrated throughout the hike.
- Camera: You’ll want to capture the stunning landscapes!
Meeting Point
FAQ
The meeting point is at Midgard Base Camp in Hvolsvöllur in south Iceland.
Driving time from Reykjavik to Midgard Base Camp is around 1 hour and 30 minutes. If you arrive early, you can grab a coffee at the camp.
Yes, we highly recommend that you bring hiking boots on all hiking tours.
We do hike in the rain, snow, wind and any other weather conditions that nature decides to throw at us. After all, we’re going on adventures! If the weather is unsafe for any reason, the trip will be changed or postponed. You will be notified the week of your trip if there are changes due to weather.
It is recommended to have a sturdy pair of broken-in trail shoes, boots, or sneakers (depending on the tour). It is preferable to dress in layers and wear clothing that will wick away perspiration and keep you dry and comfortable. We recommend that you take a small backpack with you where you can keep extra clothes. As the weather is very unpredictable we advice people to check the weather forecast the evening before.
Here is a list that is good to have in mind when packing for an active vacation in Iceland:
- Hiking Boots – Preferably of waterproof material (Gore-Tex or alternative)
- Long sleeve shirt (thermal underwear) – Wool or synthetic
- Light wool sweater or fleece (2nd layer)
- Trousers (2nd layer) – Strong and light material that dries quickly. Wind resistant and water repelling preferable.
- Rain Jacket or an Anorak with hood – Waterproof and breathable material. Gore-Tex or equivalents are preferable.
- Rain trousers – Waterproof and breathable material
- Liner Gloves – Wool or synthetic (polypropylene / polyester)
- Socks – Wool or synthetic. One or two pairs for thermal and blister prevention
- Hat or beanie – Wool or synthetic
The hike in Thorsmork is around 8-10 km, or 3-4 hours. The path is uneven at times and the route takes you uphill and downhill.
Please contact us to get the latest information on your desired trip.
Reservations are required for guaranteed spots on all tours. Reservations help us determine the number of guides we need to ensure that our groups remain manageable and enjoyable, and they allow us to notify you of changes to the tour due to weather or anything that could disturb the tours.
We understand that you may not have a printer handy when you’re traveling so it is not necessary to have a printed copy. However, we require that you show ID matching your reservation.
It is possible to have a pick up in Reykjavik for the fee of ISK 60.000 per group.
Interesting locations in the area
Locations
- Seljalandsfoss
- Gljúfrabúi
- Gluggafoss
- Keldur Turf Houses
- Nauthúsagil canyon
- Íráfoss
- Secret Black Sand Beach
- Westman Islands
Hotels & Restaurants
- Midgard Base Camp
- Stracta Hotel
- Hotel Hella
- Hotel Rangá
- Midgard Base Camp
- Eldstó Art Cafe
- Hotel Rangá
- Strond
