Þórsmörk Hiking Trip
A 3-day hiking experience in Thorsmork, exploring lush valleys, glacial rivers, dramatic ridges, and some of Iceland’s most scenic trails.
Tour Overview
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.
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Duration
3 days
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Group Size
Maximum 16 women
Small-group format for safety, connection, and a supportive hiking experience.
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Difficulty
Moderate with challenging bits. A good level of fitness is required, and prior hiking experience is recommended.
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Season
Late June through mid-September.
The prime hiking season in Iceland’s highlands, with long daylight hours and changing weather conditions.
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Terrain
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.
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Weather & Conditions
The weather in the Icelandic highlands during summer can change quickly. Expect a mix of sun, wind, rain, and cool temperatures, typically ranging from 5–15°C (40–60°F)
What’s Included
Transportation
Travel to and from Þórsmörk in specialized highland buses operated by licensed Icelandic companies, built to handle rough roads and river crossings. Departing Reykjavík early on Day 1 and returning in the evening on Day 3.
Accommodation
Básar hut is a well-known mountain hut in Þórsmörk, beautifully located in a sheltered valley surrounded by birch forest and glacial rivers. It offers simple but comfortable facilities, including dormitory-style sleeping, shared kitchen and dining areas, and basic washing facilities.
Meals
All meals are included from lunch on Day 1 through lunch on Day 3, along with daily trail snacks. Meals are hearty, nutritious, and prepared using local Icelandic ingredients.
Please note: we can accommodate vegetarian diets and limited gluten-free needs due to hut kitchen constraints.
Women-Only Hiking Guide
Led by an experienced Viking Women guide who knows the traisl inside and out. Your guide ensures safety, sets a steady pace, reads changing conditions, and creates a supportive, encouraging group environment throughout the journey.
Viking Women Experience
A women-only small group hike built around connection, confidence, and shared adventure—guided with care, professionalism, and a deep respect for Iceland’s highlands.
What’s NOT included
Airfare
Flights to and from Iceland are not included. This gives you the flexibility to choose the best routes and travel dates for your schedule.
Travel Insurance
Personal travel insurance is not included and is strongly recommended to cover hiking activities, medical care, trip interruptions, and luggage.
Accommodation Before & After the Hike
Accommodation in Reykjavík or elsewhere before Day 1 and after Day 3 is not included. We’re happy to share recommendations if you’d like help planning extra nights.
Sleeping Bag & Personal Gear
Sleeping bags, hiking clothing, and personal equipment are not included. A detailed packing list will be provided so you can prepare comfortably and confidently.
Gratuities (optional)
Tips for your guide are not included and are entirely optional. They are always appreciated but never expected.
Itinerary
day 01
Reykjavík to Þórsmörk & Valahnúkur Hike
We start early in the morning, meeting at BSÍ Bus Terminal in downtown Reykjavík at 06:45. 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.
Elevation: 300 m (980 ft)
Distance: 7 km (4.3 miles)
Hiking time: approx: 4 hours
day 02
Tindfjallahringur Trail
After breakfast, we pack our lunches and set out on the Tindfjallahringur loop, one of the most rewarding hikes in Þórsmörk. This trail circles the Tindfjöll mountains, offering dramatic views across glaciers, ridgelines, and deep valleys.
The route includes some steeper ascents and narrower sections, but the trail is well established and the scenery is constantly changing. Along the way, we pass distinctive rock formations such as Tröllakirkja (the “Troll Church”), adding geological interest to the hike.
In the afternoon, we return to Básar for a relaxed evening and dinner at the hut.
Elevation: 500 m (1,640 ft)
Distance: 12 km (7.5 miles)
Hiking time: 5–6 hours
DAY 03
Réttarfell Hike & Return to Reykjavík
We begin the final day with breakfast before setting out on a farewell hike up Réttarfell, a gentle mountain offering sweeping views over the Þórsmörk valley and Eyjafjallajökull glacier. This hike showcases the area’s diverse terrain, from soft valley paths to open viewpoints with striking contrasts of color.
After returning to Básar, we gather our belongings and board the highland bus at approximately 15:00 for the journey back to Reykjavík, marking the end of our three-day Þórsmörk hiking adventure.
Elevation: 260 m (850 ft)
Distance: 4 km (2.5 miles)
Hiking time: 2–3 hours
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this hike suitable for solo travelers?
Yes. Many of our guests join solo. This is a women-only group, and our hikes are designed to create a supportive, welcoming environment where it’s easy to connect with others from day one.
How fit do I need to be?
A good level of fitness is required, and prior hiking experience is strongly recommended.
Where do we store our main luggage while hiking?
While you’re hiking, your luggage will be safely waiting for you back at the hut, allowing you to enjoy the trail with just a daypack.
Can I rent hiking gear for this tour?
Yes, some hiking gear can be rented in Reykjavik, including items such as sleeping bag, hiking poles, waterproof clothing, and boots. We recommend arranging rentals in advance to ensure availability and proper fit. A detailed packing list and rental suggestions will be shared before the tour so you can plan comfortably.
What happens if the weather is bad?
Weather in Iceland’s highlands can change quickly. If conditions require it, the group may start hiking earlier or later in the day.
What happens if someone gets injured on the trail?
Our Viking Women guides are trained in wilderness first aid and carry essential safety equipment at all times. Minor injuries are treated on the trail, and the hike continues at a safe, manageable pace. If a more serious injury occurs, the guide will assess the situation and coordinate appropriate assistance or evacuation if needed.
I’m a slow hiker — can I still join?
We welcome hikers with different hiking styles, and our guides set a steady, supportive pace. That said, it’s important that all participants are able to complete each day’s hike within the timeframe outlined in the itineray. This ensures the group can reach the hut safely and allows for rest, meals, and changing weather conditions. If you’re unsure whether this pace feels right for you, we’re always happy to talk it through before booking.
