Into the Upside Down: Háifoss & Þjórsárdalur Tour

This guided small-group tour takes you into Þjórsárdalur, a dramatic valley where waterfalls, lava fields, rivers and Icelandic history sit far from the busiest tourist routes. The star of the day is Háifoss, one of Iceland’s tallest waterfalls, but the route is more than a single viewpoint. You also visit Hjálparfoss, explore the atmosphere of Þjórsárdalur and step into a landscape that feels remote, cinematic and surprisingly peaceful.

The name “Into the Upside Down” fits the mood of the tour: deep canyons, hidden valleys, strange volcanic textures and places that feel like another world. It is ideal for travellers who want a full Iceland nature experience without committing to a very long highland day.

Háifoss, Hjálparfoss and Þjórsárdalur in one day

Háifoss is a powerful waterfall dropping into a steep canyon beside Granni, its neighbouring cascade. The scale is immediate: cliffs, river, spray and open highland air. Hjálparfoss offers a different mood, with two streams meeting below dark basalt formations. Together they make this one of the best waterfall-focused day tours for visitors who have already seen, or want to avoid, the busiest South Coast stops.

A quieter Iceland waterfall tour

Þjórsárdalur is rich with stories. Farms once stood here, eruptions changed the valley, and reconstructed Viking-age heritage sites help connect the landscape to Iceland’s settlement history. The result is a tour that feels both scenic and meaningful: not just “look at this waterfall,” but “understand the place around it.”

Frequently asked questions

How long is the Háifoss and Þjórsárdalur tour?

The tour is listed as approximately 8 hours, making it a full but manageable day trip.

Is this a small-group tour?

Yes. The experience is designed as a guided small-group tour, which gives the day a more relaxed and personal feel.

Will we see Háifoss?

Yes, Háifoss is the main highlight of the tour, subject to safe weather and road conditions.

Is the tour suitable if I dislike crowded places?

Yes. Þjórsárdalur is generally quieter than the Golden Circle and many South Coast stops, making this a strong option for travellers seeking space and atmosphere.

Do I need hiking boots?

Comfortable, sturdy footwear is recommended. Paths and viewpoints can be uneven, wet or slippery depending on weather.