Thorsmork: Day Trips and Tours from Reykjavík

Thorsmork, named after the legendary Norse God of Thunder, is nestled between the glacial mountains of Eyjafjallajökull, Tindfjallajökull and Mýrdalsjökul.

In contrast to the dramatic surrounding landscape, Thorsmork is a place of lush green Birch forests, shrubs and moss. It owes its warmer temperatures and stunning vegetation to the unique microclimate created in this sheltered valley.

A day trip to Thorsmork from Reykjavík is an adventure into one of Iceland’s wildest and most rugged frontiers.

Here's all you need to know about Thorsmork, one of the most exciting day trips from Reykjavík.

How to get to Thorsmork from Reykjavík?

Thorsmork is located in southern Iceland, about 128 kilometers southeast of Reykjavík. It is not possible to access Thorsmork in a regular car.

The 4x4 F-Road-approved vehicles can get as far as the parking area at Thorsmork Volcano Huts, but thereafter a special transfer will be required.

Bus journeys to Thorsmork from Reykjavík

There is a 4-wheel drive bus that travels between Reykjavík and Thorsmork daily from May to October each year. On arrival in the region, you will need to join a Super jeep or mountain bus tour into the valley.

Guided tours to Thorsmork from Reykjavík

Due to the isolated location of Thorsmork and the need to cross several unbridged rivers, a guided tour is the only way to reach the mountain ridge and valley.

Most tours take place in a super jeep that has been specially modified to handle the rough and watery trail conditions.

Small-group day tours, private tours, hiking tours and multi-day tours are all options if you are traveling from Reykjavík.

What is the typical itinerary?

On a day tour to Thorsmork, your guide will collect you from your Reykjavík hotel in a super jeep or specialized SUV, and you will travel for around 2 hours before arriving in the Thorsmork area.

The drive into the valley covers some rough terrain and includes multiple water crossings.

Once at Thorsmork, you will travel through parts of the lush green oasis that contrasts starkly against the black Markafljót desert riverbed and the towering Tindfjallajökull and Eyjafjallajökull volcanoes.

On most tours, there is time for a short hike and plenty of breathtaking photo opportunities.

On the way to and from Thorsmork, you can expect to pass or stop at other attractions, including the Seljalandsfoss waterfall, the Stakkholtsgjá Canyon and the Nauthúsagil ravine.

At the end of this remarkable tour, you will return to your accommodation in the city.

What kinds of tours are available to go to Thorsmork?

A trip to Thorsmork is should be on the to-do list of every nature lover and hiking enthusiast. An excursion only to Thorsmork is possible, but you can also choose an itinerary that includes some of Iceland’s other southern attractions.

Small-group day trip to Thorsmork from Reykjavík

A small-group day trip from Reykjavík departs early in the morning and heads towards Thorsmork.

Although Thorsmork is a destination, the journey is also an integral part of the tour, and you will cross several waterways and drive along rugged trails throughout the day.

Once in the valley, your guide will take you on a short hike, and you will have some time to enjoy some refreshments while you soak up the views.

Private day trip to Thorsmork from Reykjavík

Day trips on a private basis follow a similar itinerary as the small-group day tours, but you will benefit from your vehicle and guide for the duration of your tour.

If you want to tailor your tour to include more hiking or a longer rest stop, you can do this.

Once you have explored all the splendor that Thorsmork has to offer, you will return to Reykjavík in time for dinner.

Eyjafjallajökull and Thorsmork private tour from Reykjavík

Private tours that include both Eyjafjallajökull volcano and Thorsmork depart in the morning for Seljalandsfoss and the Gigjökull glacier before continuing to the Stakkholtsgja canyon.

In the Basar area, you will have the opportunity to enjoy a leisurely hike in Thorsmork’s unique lush forests – an unusual feature of the valley’s unique microclimate.

2-Day Thorsmork Exploration from Reykjavík

On an overnight expedition from Reykjavík to Thorsmork, you get to spend a night in the wilderness at Húsadalur. The first day of the tour is spent reaching Thorsmork via Eyjafjallajökull and the Gigjökull glacier.

After breakfast on the second day, your exploration of the mountain ridge and valley continues before departing Thorsmork and heading for Seljalandsfoss waterfall and the black beaches of the Atlantic coast.

Laugavegur to Thorsmork multi-day trek from Reykjavík

A private multi-day trek from Laugavegur to Thorsmork is considered a bucket-list adventure for hikers. This excursion takes in the southern highlands and departs from Reykjavík to Landmannalaugar by bus.

Each trekking day covers between 12 and 18 kilometers, and your guide will expertly direct you across the spectacular wilderness areas.

Your luggage will be driven between overnight campsites, and all meals will be provided.

How much does a day trip to Thorsmork from Reykjavík cost?

Small-group day trips to Thorsmork from Reykjavík start from US$290 per person and include a return hotel transfer and the services of a driver-guide. Small group tours that also include Eyjafjallajökull cost around US$350 per person.

A Private day trip to Thorsmork from Reykjavík costs between US$800 and US$1,350 per group, depending on the group sizes, which range from four to eight people per group.

For an Eyjafjallajökull and Thorsmork private tour from Reykjavík for up to four people, expect to pay from US$1,750. This price includes transport in a super jeep and the service of an experienced local guide.

A 2-day Thorsmork Exploration from Reykjavík costs from US$1,210 per adult. The tour accommodates a maximum of 15 people and includes meals and overnight accommodation in shared public mountain hut facilities.

On a Laugavegur to Thorsmork multi-day trek from Reykjavík, prices start at US$1,700 per person.

This bucket-list hike includes the services of an experienced and qualified guide, dormitory accommodation, return Reykjavík transfers and meals on the trip.

What will you see and do?

The journey is part of the adventure when you visit Thorsmork, and in your super jeep or 4x4 mountain bus, you will experience river crossings and rough terrain. Various nature trails extend in all directions in the valley.

Depending on your tour, you will be able to walk through the verdant green trees, shrubs and mosses while also admiring the spectacular glaciers and volcanic mountains that surround you.

On a multi-day trek from Laugavegur to Thorsmork, hikers cover around 55 kilometers in the Landmannalaugar geothermal area, which is home to many hot springs and vibrant rhyolite mountains.

When is the best time to visit Thorsmork?

The summer months are the best time for a visit to Thorsmork. A 4-wheel drive mountain bus also offers a service from Reykjavík during these months.

Even though the days are longer and warmer between June and August, there may still be snow and ice at higher altitudes. Accessibility can be an issue during the winter months.

Travel Tips

• Sturdy and supportive hiking boots should be worn.
• The weather can change quickly. Carry a waterproof jacket and wear layers of clothing to help with temperature regulation.
• Bring a hat, a scarf, sunglasses and warm socks.
• Be careful not to get separated from your group.
• Carry sufficient drinking water.