Woman with arms spread wide above a glacial river valley
Book now

Þórsmörk Hiking Trip

This 3-day Thorsmork hiking tour offers an immersive journey through one of Iceland’s most spectacular and diverse hiking regions. Nestled between the glaciers Tindfjallajökull and Eyjafjallajökull, Thorsmork is renowned for its lush valleys, dramatic ridgelines, braided glacial rivers, and some of the most scenic trails in the Icelandic Highlands.
Named after the Norse god Thor, Thorsmork is a hiker’s paradise shaped by glaciers, volcanoes, and a unique microclimate that supports rare greenery. Moss-covered slopes, birch forests, and sheltered valleys create a striking contrast to Iceland’s harsher landscapes, making this area feel both wild and welcoming.
Over three days, we explore a variety of scenic hiking routes suited to different abilities, with options ranging from relaxed valley walks to more demanding ridge hikes offering panoramic views over glaciers and surrounding highlands. Along the way, we pass waterfalls, geothermal features, and viewpoints overlooking vast volcanic terrain carved by rivers and ice.
This multi-day hike is ideal for travelers seeking a short but rewarding hiking experience in Iceland, combining dramatic nature, varied terrain, and time to truly explore Þórsmörk at a comfortable pace. Whether hiking under the midnight sun or through misty valleys, Þórsmörk captures the raw beauty and untamed spirit of Iceland’s highlands.

Duration

3 Days

Season

Late June through mid-September

Information icon
The prime hiking season in Iceland’s highlands, with long daylight hours and changing weather conditions.

Weather

5–15°C (40–60°F)

Information icon
The weather in the Icelandic highlands can change quickly. Expect a mix of sun, wind, rain, and cool temperatures, typically ranging from 5–15°C (40–60°F)

Group

Max 12 women

Information icon
Small-group format for safety, connection, and a supportive hiking experience.

Difficulty

Moderate with Challenging bits

Information icon
A good level of fitness is required, and prior hiking experience is recommended. Daily hikes range from 4–12 km (2–6 hours), with steady climbs, some steeper and narrower sections, and varied terrain, but are fully supported by an experienced Viking Women guide.

Terrain

Varied hiking terrain

Information icon
Þórsmörk features varied hiking terrain, including lush valleys, birch forests, volcanic ridges, and glacial river plains. Trails range from soft forest paths and gravel tracks to rocky sections and exposed ridgelines, with short ascents and descents along the way.
Hiker walking a trail through birch woods in a green valley
Iceland’s secret garden.

A green oasis in the wild

Þórsmörk is a hidden valley of lush greenery and birch forests, wrapped by volcanic ridges and glacial river plains. It feels like a different world, just a short way from the highlands.

Hiking with women who love the outdoors

A small group of up to 12 women and an experienced Viking Women guide make every hike more fun, supported and social.

Hiker posing on a rock in front of a glacier-capped mountain

Best hiking buddies ever.

Group of hikers silhouetted on a ridge at sunset
Hikers on a rocky trail under a blue sky
A hikers paradise

Trails for every mood

From soft valley paths to steeper climbs with sweeping views, you get a bit of everything in just three days.

Group of women hikers by a mountain trail sign

You might arrive alone. You won’t feel that way for long.

Most of our travelers book solo. By the end of day one — usually around the dinner table in the hut — that changes. The women you meet on this trail tend to stay in your life. Small group, shared miles, real friendships.

From our guestbook

Where You’ll Sleep And What You’ll Eat.

Básar sits in one of the most beautiful corners of Iceland, with the volcano Eyjafjallajökull, the Mýrdalsjökull glacier and the volcanic site of Fimmvörðuháls all close by. There are two basic huts with bunk-bed dormitories, each with a kitchen, plus a patio with an outdoor BBQ and the wardens’ hut just a few steps away. The warden has a small store and close by is a cozy little restaurant and bar, perfect for a drink or a snack after the hike. The huts are well-heated, and showers are available for a small fee. There is no electricity for charging, so bring a power bank. It’s simple, cozy and the perfect base after a day on the trail.

All meals are included throughout the trip, plus daily trail snacks. Guides cook breakfast and dinner at the hut — expect lamb, salmon, porridge, and good coffee. Lunches are packed and carried with you. Vegetarian diets are catered for, though complex dietary needs can’t be fully accommodated during the tour.

Dietary restrictions? Let us know when you book.

Itinerary

We start early in the morning, meeting at BSÍ Bus Terminal in downtown Reykjavík at 06:45, ready to depart at 07:00. From here, we travel by public highland bus into the heart of Þórsmörk, one of Iceland’s most scenic hiking regions and the endpoint of the famous Laugavegur Trail.
We arrive at Básar around midday and settle into the mountain hut before heading out for our first hike. In the afternoon, we hike Valahnúkur, an accessible ridge offering wide views over Þórsmörk’s valleys, glaciers, and surrounding mountains. This hike is an excellent introduction to the area and helps us get familiar with the terrain.
After descending through Húsadalur, we visit Snorraríki cave in Langidalur before following a well-marked trail back to Básar in time for dinner.

Distance:
7 km (4.3 miles)
Walking time:
4 hours
Ascent/Descent:
300 m (980 ft)
Group of women hikers posing on a mountain viewpoint

Included

  • Highland bus transport
  • Mountain hut accommodation for two nights
  • All meals
  • Daily trail snacks
  • Experienced Viking Women guide
  • 24/7 guide support

Not included

  • Flights to/from Iceland
  • Accommodation in Reykjavík before and after the tour
  • Travel insurance (strongly recommended)
  • Sleeping bag and personal hiking gear
  • Hut showers (900 ISK per shower, paid on-site)
  • Gratuities (optional)
  • Everything not specified in “What’s Included”.
Packing list illustration with hiking boots, base layers, rain jacket, hat and socks

What to Wear during the hikes

The Icelandic highlands can bring sun, wind and rain all in one day, so layers are the key. Start with a base layer of merino wool or polyester. Add a warm mid layer like fleece, wool or down, and top it with a waterproof, windproof shell. Hiking pants or warm leggings and merino or synthetic socks keep your lower half comfortable. Wear sturdy, waterproof hiking boots that are already broken in, so your feet stay happy for every kilometer. A warm, waterproof hat completes the look.

Pack light. Hike happy.

Recommended size: 25–40 L
Your daypack should be large enough to comfortably carry all items listed in the picture.
Weather in the Icelandic highlands can change quickly. Always keep your rain gear and warm layers easily accessible.

Packing list for day hikes with a photo of a hiker
Packing list for mountain hut nights with a duffel bag

Your main bag, your hut companion

A regular suitcase is fine to bring. Your luggage will stay safely in the hut while we hike, so there’s no need to carry it with you.
During the day you won’t have access to your main luggage, so please pack everything you need for the day’s hike in your daypack. Your bag will be waiting for you when you return from the trail.

FAQ

Have more questions? Please read our Terms & conditions or get in touch.