Thjorsardalur Valley

Ready for an unforgettable journey where history, nature, and tranquility come together? Join us on a private tour to Thorsardalur, a breathtaking valley that few get to experience—but those who do never forget.

Háifoss and Granni Waterfall

Gjáin Gorge

Hjálparfoss waterfall

Duration: 10-12

Price: From 190.000 ISK

Þjórsárdalur Valley is a breathtaking valley located in southern Iceland, offering a unique blend of natural beauty and historical significance. This hidden gem is often overshadowed by Iceland’s more famous tourist spots, but it’s a must-see for those who want to experience the heart of Iceland’s diverse landscapes and rich history. This is where Iceland’s past and present intertwine, offering you both rugged landscapes and Viking history in a serene and untouched setting.

Despite being shaped by volcanic eruptions, Þjórsárdalur is filled with lush greenery and stunning landscapes that contrast with its volcanic past. The valley is home to several magnificent waterfalls, including the majestic Háifoss, one of Iceland’s tallest waterfalls. We’ll take you to the fairy-tale-like oasis of Gjáin Gorge, a hidden gem known for its volcanic rock formations, and serene waterfalls. You’ll walk through this enchanting landscape, where every step feels like entering another world of beauty and tranquility. You’ll visit the serene double cascade of Hjálparfoss, nestled in the basalt cliffs of the Þjórsárdalur valley. As you stand at the edge of this picturesque waterfall, you’ll feel the peace and stillness of this lesser-known spot, perfect for a quiet moment in nature. We will step back in time and take you to this beautifully reconstructed Viking farmhouse, we call the Commonwealth Farm, where you’ll step through the doors and instantly be transported back to medieval Iceland. Wander through the living spaces, see the tools of daily life, and imagine what life was like during the Viking era. We’ll drive through the Þjórsá Lava Fields, where vast stretches of moss-covered lava remind you of Iceland’s powerful volcanic history. You’ll have the chance to walk through these ancient fields, feeling the otherworldly energy of a landscape that’s shaped by fire and time.

Highlights

Háifoss and Granni Waterfall

Nestled in the remote highlands of Þjórsárdalur Valley, Háifoss and Granni waterfalls offer one of the most awe-inspiring sights in Iceland. These two neighboring waterfalls, located side by side in a dramatic canyon, provide a perfect combination of raw power and serene beauty. Háifoss is one of Iceland’s tallest waterfalls, plunging 122 meters (400 feet) down into a rugged gorge. Its name means “High Waterfall,” and standing before it, you’ll understand why. The sheer drop of glacial water crashing into the rocks below creates a thunderous roar, while the mist that rises from the falls often creates rainbows on sunny days, adding to the magic of the scene. Granni, meaning "Neighbor," sits just beside Háifoss. Though not as tall, Granni has its own unique charm. Together, the two waterfalls form a stunning natural duo, cascading side by side into the deep canyon below. The area surrounding the falls offers spectacular views of Iceland's rugged landscape, with the highlands stretching out as far as the eye can see.

Hjálparfoss Waterfall

Tucked away in the Þjórsárdalur Valley, Hjálparfoss is a stunning, twin-tiered waterfall that combines natural beauty with a touch of history. This serene and picturesque waterfall isn’t as famous as some of Iceland’s larger falls, but it’s a hidden gem that offers a unique and peaceful experience for those who seek out its beauty. Hjálparfoss, meaning "Help Falls," is named for the vital assistance it provided to early Icelandic travelers. Located near the end of the Sprengisandur route, a historically harsh highland track, Hjálparfoss was a place where travelers and their horses could find rest and water after a grueling journey across the rugged highlands.

Gjáin Gorge

Gjáin Gorge is a magical oasis that looks like something straight out of a fairytale. Surrounded by dramatic volcanic landscapes, this hidden gem offers a lush, verdant contrast to the rugged wilderness that surrounds it. With its picturesque waterfalls, bubbling streams, lava rock formations, and lush greenery, Gjáin is one of Iceland’s best-kept secrets.

Scenes from the tour

Extra activites

Kerið Crater

Kerið is a volcanic crater that offers a striking contrast to Iceland's more typical landscapes. With its vividly colored red and black volcanic rock, and the deep, aquamarine water that fills its base, Kerið is a breathtaking natural wonder you won't want to miss. Around 3,000 years old, this crater was formed during a volcanic eruption, and its perfectly oval shape and steep walls make it a unique and dramatic sight. The crater’s striking color palette, from its fiery red slopes to the rich green moss that grows on its walls, is unlike anything else you'll see in Iceland. The serene lake at the bottom adds to the surreal beauty, providing a perfect mirror-like reflection of the sky on calm days.

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The Commonwealth Farm

The Commonwealth Farm, located in the historic Þjórsárdalur Valley, is a remarkable site that brings Iceland's Viking past to life. Known in Icelandic as Þjóðveldisbærinn, this reconstructed Viking-age farmhouse is based on the original excavations of the Stöng farm, which was buried under ash during the catastrophic eruption of Mount Hekla in 1104. The Commonwealth Farm gives visitors a rare opportunity to step into a fully reconstructed medieval Icelandic longhouse and experience what life was like for Iceland’s early settlers during the Commonwealth period (930–1262 AD).

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Urriðafoss Waterfall

Located on the Þjórsá River, Iceland’s longest river, Urriðafoss is one of the country’s most powerful yet underrated waterfalls. Unlike some of Iceland’s more famous falls, Urriðafoss remains a hidden gem, tucked away and far less visited, offering visitors a more intimate experience with nature’s raw power. Though not the tallest waterfall, Urriðafoss is remarkable for the sheer volume of water that rushes over its wide, rocky edge. The waterfall showcases the unrelenting force of the Þjórsá River, as thousands of gallons of water surge over the falls every second. Its wild, untamed beauty and the mist that rises from its turbulent waters create an unforgettable spectacle.

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Sigöldugljúfur canyon - Valley of Tears

Sigöldugljúfur is a stunning canyon located off the beaten track in the back highlands of Iceland. It is known for its dramatic landscapes and vibrant colors, particularly during the summer months when the flora is lush. The canyon features spectacular cliffs, waterfalls, and unique geological formations.