Eyjafjallajokull and Thorsmork Experience

Review of the Eyjafjallajokull and Thorsmork Experience: An Adventure in Iceland’s Wild Heart

If you’re considering a trip to Iceland and want to see some of its most iconic and less accessible sights, this Eyjafjallajokull and Thorsmork tour promises a mix of rugged landscapes, volcanoes, glaciers, and hidden gems accessible only by a powerful off-road vehicle. We haven’t done it ourselves, but looking at the rave reviews and detailed descriptions, it feels like a trip that could really elevate your Iceland experience.

What we love about this tour is how it combines private, personalized guidance with the thrill of off-road driving through some of Iceland’s most spectacular terrain. Plus, the fact that it’s all led by expert guides in a super Jeep means you get the best of both worlds: incredible views and a safe, comfortable ride. One thing to note is that it’s a full-day experience, around 10 hours, so it suits travelers with a day to spare, especially those eager for adventure and scenery far from crowds.

A potential consideration is the price—at around $1,834 per group, it’s not cheap, but when you factor in the private nature and the unique access, many find it well worth the cost. This tour is especially suited for those who want to see Iceland’s wild side, enjoy off-road driving, and appreciate personalized attention from guides who know the terrain well. If you’re after a relaxed, less intense experience, this might be more than you need, but for adventure lovers, it’s likely to hit the mark.

Key Points

• Private, personalized experience with just your group and a guide/driver
• Full-day adventure exploring Eyjafjallajökull and Thorsmork’s volcanic landscapes and glaciers
• Off-road driving in a super Jeep, capable of navigating terrains cars can’t
• Includes hotel pickup and drop-off for convenience
• Offers stunning views and visits to iconic Icelandic landmarks like Seljalandsfoss and the volcano itself
• Cost reflects the private, all-inclusive nature of the tour, making it a premium experience

An In-Depth Look at What You Can Expect

Starting the Day: Easy Pickup and Friendly Guides

The tour kicks off early at 8:30 am from Reykjavik, with hotel pickup included. This is a big plus because you won’t need to worry about navigating to a meeting point—your guide will come to you, making the start smooth and stress-free. The guides are described as knowledgeable, friendly, and eager to share their love of Iceland’s landscapes.

First Stop: Seljalandsfoss

Your first encounter is with the famous Seljalandsfoss waterfall. We’ve read that the trail around it is quite distinctive, and in summer, you can walk all the way behind the falls. Be prepared to get a little wet—mist from the falls can make the rocks slippery—and that’s part of the fun.

Here you’ll have about 30 minutes, which is enough to soak in the beauty without feeling rushed. Visitors seem to love the chance to experience this iconic waterfall up close, despite the inevitable spray. A reviewer mentions, “The mist makes it mesmerizing, but you should be prepared to get wet.”

Next Stop: Stakkholtsgjá Canyon

From the waterfalls, the journey takes you to Stakkholtsgjá, a hidden canyon in the Thorsmork Nature Reserve. It’s two kilometers long and about 100 meters deep, carved by streams over time. Traversing the canyon means walking through narrow passages and crossing tiny streams—so good shoes and waterproof gear are advisable.

Reviewers have called this a “hidden gem,” and many appreciate the quieter, more secluded feel of the canyon compared to more tourist-heavy spots. It’s an hour-long stop, and the views are described as spectacular and unforgettable.

The Highlight: Eyjafjallajökull Volcano and Glacier

Next, you approach Eyjafjallajökull, the volcano famous for its 2010 eruption that disrupted European air travel. The glacier itself covers over 100 square kilometers, and you get to see its enormous size firsthand. It’s also adjacent to the Mrdalsjökull, the fourth-largest glacier in Iceland, and near other volcanic features like Katla.

While walking around the glacier area, you’ll have about an hour to take pictures, learn about the volcano, and appreciate how these glaciers feed rivers—one of which nourishes Seljalandsfoss. A reviewer notes, “You’ll love the views of the glacier, and the guide’s insights about the volcano’s history add context to the landscape.”

Off-Road Adventures & Scenic Drives

Throughout the trip, the main thrill is the off-road driving in a super Jeep capable of tackling the rugged Icelandic terrain. The reviews emphasize the exciting and spectacular nature of driving through rivers, over rocks, and up steep inclines. One reviewer described it as “drove off-road, through rivers and up a mountain in the snow. Once in a lifetime experience.”

The guides seem to excel at balancing adventure with safety. Many reviews mention the guides’ expertise and friendly attitude, making even challenging drives feel accessible and fun.

The Final Stops and Returning to Reykjavik

After a full day of exploration—visiting waterfalls, volcanoes, glacial rivers, and hidden canyons—the tour concludes with a return to Reykjavik, around late afternoon or early evening. The tour ends back at your pickup point, with flexibility and convenience built in.

The Experience in Real Life: What Travelers Say

Many reviews highlight the expert guides, often named as a standout feature. One reviewer raves about “Jói, who knew the trucks and terrain inside out, making the trip safe and fun.” Others mention that the driving over streams and steep hills was “once in a lifetime,” and that the views of volcanoes and glaciers are breathtaking.

The private nature of this tour is a big selling point. It allows for a more immersive, tailored experience, with guides sharing interesting stories and answering questions along the way. Some reviews mention that guides go above and beyond—stopping for snacks or sharing insights about local history and geology.

Consider the Cost

With a price around $1,834 for up to 3 people, this experience is on the premium side. But many reviewers feel it’s justified because of the personalized attention, private guiding, and access to areas most travelers won’t see. It’s not a budget option, but if you’re after a luxury, adventure-focused day in Iceland, this offers a lot of value.

Who is This Tour Best For?

This trip is ideal if you’re looking for an adventure and want a personalized experience with knowledgeable guides. It suits adventure lovers, nature enthusiasts, and those eager to explore Iceland’s most dramatic landscapes without the hassle of organizing transport and routes themselves.

If you prefer sightseeing at a more relaxed pace or are traveling with young children or mobility issues, this might not be the best fit, as the terrain can be challenging and the day long. But for those who love off-road driving, glaciers, volcanoes, and rugged scenery, it’s likely to be a highlight.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour offers free hotel pickup and drop-off, making the day more convenient and stress-free.

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 10 hours, giving you plenty of time to explore the key sites and enjoy the drive.

What should I wear?
Warm outdoor clothing and good shoes are recommended, as you’ll be outdoors for most of the day and possibly in wet conditions.

Are snacks provided?
No, snacks are not included, so it’s a good idea to bring some for the day. The guide may assist with stops along the way.

Can I bring my camera?
Absolutely. You’ll want to capture the stunning landscapes, glaciers, waterfalls, and volcanoes.

Is this experience suitable for children?
While the tour is generally open to most travelers, the terrain and length might make it less suitable for young children or those with mobility issues.

What is included in the price?
The price covers the private tour, expert guide/driver, and all transport in the super Jeep. Lunch is not included.

What if I need to cancel?
You can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the tour for a full refund.

Final Thoughts

For anyone craving a personalized, adrenaline-filled day exploring Iceland’s most striking volcanic and glacial scenery, this Eyjafjallajokull and Thorsmork tour offers an accessible way to experience the island’s rugged beauty. The combination of expert guides, off-road driving, and stunning landscape stops makes it stand out among Icelandic adventures.

While it’s a bit of a splurge, many travelers find the experience truly worth every penny, especially those passionate about nature and adventure. It’s particularly suited for those who want to see beyond the usual sights and really get into Iceland’s wild side. Just be ready for a full day of activity, and you’ll go home with stories and photos to last a lifetime.

Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply want to tick off an unforgettable activity, this tour is one that’s likely to leave a lasting impression.