Private Þjórsárdalur Valley Tour

by Absorb Iceland · private · Highlands

Private Þjórsárdalur Valley Tour — Absorb Iceland

Would this be cheaper direct? No — we sell at Absorb Iceland's own price and take our commission from them, not from you. What you get here is one checkout across operators, one confirmation, and one place to change or cancel it. If you ever find it cheaper on their own site, tell us and we will match it or explain why we cannot.

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19 photos from Absorb Iceland. Tap any one for the full-size original.

  • Duration

    11 hours

  • Difficulty

    Easy

  • Season

    May – Sep

  • Meeting

    Hotel pickup available

  • Languages

    EN

  • Departs

    08:00, 09:00, 10:00

  • Minimum age

    4

  • Cancellation

    Free until 2 days before

About this experience

Join us on an extraordinary and breathtaking journey through the stunning Þjórsárdalur Valley. This exclusive private tour is meticulously crafted to showcase this beautiful region's natural wonders and hidden gems and immerse you in a truly unforgettable experience that will leave you in awe.

Embark on a mesmerizing adventure as we begin our tour at the picturesque Hjálparfoss, a captivating waterfall where two streams merge, creating a truly enchanting and mesmerizing water cascade. Take a moment to absorb the tranquil surroundings, allowing yourself to be captivated by the sheer beauty of this stunning spot. And, of course, don't forget to seize the opportunity to capture priceless and memorable photos that will forever remind you of this magical place.

Continuing our expedition, we will go to the remarkable Búrfellsvirkjun, a hydroelectric power station nestled harmoniously in the heart of the valley. Here, you will have the chance to marvel at the impressive engineering behind this sustainable and environmentally friendly power plant and gain valuable insights into Iceland's renewable energy initiatives. Witness firsthand how Iceland harnesses the power of nature to generate clean and sustainable energy.

As we continue our exploration, we head to the historical ruins of the farm Stöng. This remarkable archaeological treasure is the remains of a Viking longhouse that Gaukur Trandilsson inhabited during the 11th century. His farm, along with 20 other farms in the area, was destroyed by the volcanic eruption of Hekla in 1104 when Þjórsárdalur became buried under a thick layer of volcanic ash. The site at Stöng was then excavated in 1939 and partially reconstructed to give visitors a glimpse into Iceland's Viking past. It provides a unique opportunity to see how Vikings lived and interacted with their surroundings. The lush greenery and scenic views of this area create a picturesque setting that perfectly complements the site's historical significance.

A few kilometers away, Þjóðveldisbærinn, also known as The Commonwealth Farm, was built in 1974 as a reconstruction of Stöng, celebrating the 1100th anniversary of the settlement of Iceland. If you wish, you can make an extra stop here but must pay an entrance fee on-site. Þjóðveldisbærinn provides visitors with a unique glimpse into Iceland's past, showcasing the architecture and way of life during the time of the Icelandic Commonwealth, which lasted from the 10th to the 13th century. Next to it stands a picturesque replica of a traditional Icelandic house of prayer, based on ruins found in archaeological excavations in the area that had gone under ash in the 1104 eruption. Þjóðveldisbærinn was used to depict a village close to the Wall in Game of Thrones that Ygritte and a group of wildlings attacked in the episode "Breaker of Chains."

From Stöng, we walk into Gjáin, a hidden oasis renowned for its lush, vibrant greenery and unique rock formations. This is where the water dance scene featuring Arya and the Hound was shot for the episode "First of His Name" in Game of Thrones. Step into this hidden paradise and be transported to a world of breathtaking beauty and tranquility. As you explore Gjáin, you will encounter two waterfalls, Gjárfoss and another without a name, along with unique rock formations that the forces of four eruptions have shaped. These geological wonders stand as testaments to the immense power and artistry of the Earth. Each formation tells a story of the valley's geological past, from towering cliffs to intricate crevices.

Prepare to have your breath taken away as we venture to Háifoss, one of Iceland's most majestic and awe-inspiring waterfalls. Standing at 122 meters (400 feet) tall, it is the third tallest waterfall in the country. Háifoss never fails to leave visitors in awe of its powerful rush of water as it gracefully plunges into a deep gorge surrounded by towering and dramatic cliffs. Next to Háifoss is its neighbor Granni, a genuinely magical waterfall tucked away in the valley's heart. Prepare to be enchanted by the ethereal beauty of Granni as it showcases nature's finest artistry through its graceful cascades and untouched surroundings.

We will take a break for a late lunch at the Hrauneyjar Highland Center before we proceed with the rest of our journey. This will provide us with an opportunity to recharge and take in the breathtaking views that surround us. After our rejuvenating break, we will continue creating unforgettable memories.

Our next stop on this remarkable journey is Fossabrekkur, a charming waterfall that cascades down a series of steps, creating a mesmerizing display of nature's raw power. Take a moment to be enchanted by this cascading wonder's sheer force and beauty, allowing yourself to appreciate nature's awe-inspiring grandeur. Capture these precious moments, and let the memories of this extraordinary sight stay with you forever.

Last but certainly not least, we will arrive at our final destination, Þjófafoss, a captivating waterfall surrounded by rugged cliffs and untouched wilderness. Prepare to be mesmerized entirely as you witness this remote location's sheer power and unspoiled beauty. Allow yourself to be wholly immersed in nature's raw and untamed force, and let the sights and sounds of Þjófafoss create an unforgettable and awe-inspiring experience that will stay with you long after the tour ends.

Join our expert guide on an extraordinary expedition through the Þjórsárdalur Valley. Uncover its abundant history, exceptional geology, and captivating folklore. Immerse yourself in age-old stories and legends that have profoundly influenced this remarkable region. Encounter awe, acquire wisdom, and cultivate a profound admiration for nature. Don't overlook this exclusive chance to venture into Þjórsárdalur on our personalized tour. Forge enduring memories and allow the magnificence of this valley to etch an indelible mark on your heart and soul.

Description from the operator, Absorb Iceland. Prices and availability in the booking panel are live.

Where you go

  1. Hjálparfoss waterfall
  2. Búrfellsvirkjun hydroelectric power station
  3. Háifoss & Granni waterfalls
  4. Stöng viking longhouse ruins
  5. Gjáin oasis
  6. Hrauneyjar Highland Center
  7. Fossabrekkur falls
  8. Þjófafoss waterfall
  9. Þjóðveldisbærinn - The Commonwealth Farm (optional)

Included

  • Parking fees
  • Pickup & drop-off within the Reykjavik Capital Area
  • Private transport in an air-conditioned vehicle
  • Knowledgeable & experienced English-speaking driver-guide

Not included

  • Food & drinks (your private driver-guide can recommend stops for food and refreshments during the tour)
  • Entry or admission fees
  • Tip or gratuity

Good to know

  • Please respect nature - do not throw out trash or walk on any moss.
  • You do not need to print out your e-ticket for environmental responsibility purposes.
  • Your private driver-guide can always recommend different restaurants in the area and make stops on the way so you can purchase food/snacks/drinks, but you are also welcome to bring a packed lunch.
  • This tour's total duration depends on the time spent at each stop.
  • Road conditions or adverse weather could make some stops inaccessible during winter, so the itinerary may need to be altered if necessary.
  • Dress according to the weather by wearing warm and wind-/waterproof clothing in layers and bring gloves and a hat.
  • Wear suitable footwear, preferably waterproof with a good grip, in case of slippery conditions due to ice, rain, or gravel paths.
  • We may occasionally need to alter the tour itinerary due to unpredictable weather and road conditions in Iceland, especially during winter. The weather in Iceland can be pretty unpredictable.

Cancellation for this tour

Free cancellation until 2 days before departure; no refund after that. If the operator cancels for weather or safety, you get a full refund or a new date.

If the weather cancels this tour

Iceland's weather is real. What usually stops this one is closed F-roads or a highland storm — decided by the Road Administration and the driver. Here is exactly what happens to your booking.

  1. 1Absorb Iceland decides, and tells us. Operators cancel when it is unsafe or pointless, and we back that call every time — we do not ask them to run anyway.
  2. 2We contact you by email, and by phone if your tour is the same or next day. You choose: another date if there is one you can make, or a full refund. There is no fee and nothing to argue.
  3. 3The refund goes back to the card you paid with, through Stripe, usually visible within a few working days. If this tour was one of several in your booking, the others are untouched.

What you do not get is the day back. If this is the only free day in your plan, put a spare day next to it — the planner leaves days free with the rest-day option. And if you want out because the forecast looks bad, that is your own cancellation: free until 2 days before departure, the operator's policy after that.

Questions on the day: [email protected] · +354 497 1373. How cancellations work in Iceland →

Sold out on your date?

Seats come back — a cancellation, or the operator adding a vehicle. Tell us the date and we will check once a day and email you if one opens. One email, then we delete the address; nothing else is ever sent to it.

Who this is not for

  • Children under 4 cannot join this one.
  • Not a good fit if you want a relaxed day: 11 hours is a long time on the road, most of it spent getting there and back.

Read off the operator's own conditions. If none of it applies to you, this is a good one.

Why we list it

Absorb Iceland is one of 154 operators we work with — chosen for reliability, honest descriptions and how they treat guests when weather changes plans. We don't list everything; we list what we'd book ourselves. The six checks every operator passes →

Reviews from our travellers

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No reviews yet from our travellers on this one. After your tour we send one email asking how it was, and what you write goes here, unedited.

  • One checkout, any number of operators

  • Rankings are not for sale

  • 153 operators vetted, and not all of them accepted

  • If it falls short, we fix it

Pairs well with

Everything here goes into the same basket and the same single payment, however many operators it comes from.

from

€1,791 per vehicle

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