Description
Leave the busiest sightseeing routes behind and enter Þjórsárdalur, a valley where towering waterfalls, lava formations and Viking-age history create one of South Iceland’s most rewarding hidden adventures.
The day’s natural showstopper is Háifoss, plunging 122 metres into a rugged gorge beside neighbouring Granni. Before it, twin-streamed Hjálparfoss provides a gentler contrast, framed by twisted basalt and vegetation at the meeting of two rivers.
At the reconstructed Commonwealth Farm, Iceland’s medieval world becomes tangible through turf-covered architecture and stories inspired by the excavated farm at Stöng. The result is a tour that combines grand scenery with a real sense of people, place and imagination.
Choose this route for fewer crowds, immense waterfall views and a fascinating step into the Iceland of the sagas.
Itinerary
Reykjavík and BSÍ
Beyond the classic tourist route
Meet at BSÍ and travel east through changing farmland towards Þjórsárdalur. The guide sets the scene for a valley shaped by Hekla’s eruptions, powerful rivers and the medieval communities that once lived beneath the volcano.
Hjálparfoss
Twin cascades among basalt forms
Discover a wonderfully photogenic pair of streams joining in a sheltered basin. Hjálparfoss is framed by unusual lava formations and greenery, creating an inviting contrast to the valley’s harsher volcanic landscapes and the great gorge ahead.
Háifoss and Granni
Two waterfalls above a vast gorge
Stand at the edge of an immense canyon where Háifoss plunges 122 metres and neighbouring Granni pours from the same high plateau. The scale, layered cliffs and distant highland views make this one of Iceland’s most exhilarating waterfall panoramas.
Þjóðveldisbærinn
Step inside the Viking-age Commonwealth
Explore a detailed reconstruction based on the excavated farm at Stöng. Turf walls, a long central hall and carefully recreated details illuminate how people lived in Iceland’s Commonwealth era; entrance and lunch are available separately.
Þjórsárdalur return
Volcanoes, rivers and open country
The return journey gathers the valley’s stories into a final sweep of scenery. Look back towards Hekla, trace rivers through the lowlands and enjoy a landscape where natural power and human history remain closely intertwined.
What is included
- Return transport from Reykjavík
- Professional local guide
- Visits to Hjálparfoss and Háifoss
- Þjórsárdalur sightseeing
What do I need to bring
- Warm layered clothing
- Waterproof outerwear
- Sturdy walking shoes
- Food, drinks and a reusable water bottle
- Camera or phone
Good to know
- Admission to the Commonwealth Farm and lunch are not included and can be purchased separately.
- The minimum age is 10 and the small-group vehicle carries no more than 16 participants.
- Waterfall viewpoints include natural, uneven terrain; walking distance is shaped by conditions.
Meeting point: BSÍ Bus Terminal, Reykjavík
Meet at the main tour departure area and arrive at least 30 minutes before the scheduled 09:00 departure.
Highlights
- The 122-metre plunge of Háifoss
- Hjálparfoss framed by sculpted basalt
- The reconstructed Commonwealth Farm
- A quieter route through Þjórsárdalur
Into the Upside Down: Háifoss & Þjórsárdalur Tour – Frequently Asked Questions
The name captures the valley’s secluded, cinematic atmosphere—a landscape of deep gorges, strange lava forms, saga history and dramatic viewpoints far from the busiest routes.
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