Riding the Wild Between the Ice: A Þórsmörk Buggy Adventure
Off‑road between glaciers and ridgelines—an efficient, exhilarating way to meet Þórsmörk
The buggy's engine burbles like a dry throat as the driver nudges us toward the braids of the Krossá river. Spray hisses off the tires. Ahead, Þórsmörk—Thor's Forest—unfurls in mossy pockets and black sand ridges, cradled between the steely shoulders of Eyjafjallajökull and Mýrdalsjökull. The valley smells faintly of wet earth and glacier melt; wind tugs at your hood and seems to be testing whether you mean it when you say you came for an adventure.
Trail Wisdom
Layer for wind and spray
Bring a waterproof outer shell and warm mid‑layers—the valley is chilly and river spray is inevitable.
Secure your camera
Use a wrist strap or clip; bumpy terrain and spray are harsh on gear.
Trust the guide on river crossings
Guides read water color and flow—follow their instructions when boarding or disembarking.
Protect the moss
Stay on designated exits and viewpoints—Icelandic moss recovers slowly and is easily damaged.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Stakkholtsgjá canyon (narrow moss‑lined gorge)
- •Laugavegur Trail access points at Húsadalur for panoramic day hikes
Wildlife
Arctic fox, Ptarmigan and various passerine birds
Conservation Note
The valley’s mosses and braided rivers are ecologically fragile; guided tours and staying on routes help limit erosion and habitat damage.
Þórsmörk—literally 'Thor’s forest'—is named in Icelandic folklore and sits between glaciers that have repeatedly reshaped the valley.
Seasonal Guide
spring
Best for: Wildflower emergence, Fewer crowds
Challenges: Unpredictable weather, High river flows from melt
Spring brings melting glaciers and fast river currents—scenic but variable; expect wet conditions and consult guides on safety.
summer
Best for: Stable touring windows, Long daylight hours, Best overall access
Challenges: Higher visitor numbers, Occasional rain
Summer is the optimal window for accessibility and daylight—book early and prepare for midges or drizzle.
fall
Best for: Autumn light for photography, Cooling temperatures
Challenges: Shortening days, Growing river chill
Fall colors and slanting light are beautiful, but expect cooler temperatures and earlier finishes to daylight.
winter
Best for: Dramatic snowy contrasts, Aurora potential
Challenges: Limited access, Harsh weather and closed F‑roads
Winter access is very limited and tours are often suspended; when available, conditions are extreme—trust local operators.
Photographer's Notes
What to Bring
Waterproof shellEssential
Protects against spray and sudden rain; windproofing is equally important.
Sturdy waterproof bootsEssential
Keeps feet dry through short riverside walks and uneven, wet ground.
Camera with strapEssential
A wide angle and a strap for security capture valley panoramas and canyon details.
Warm mid‑layer (fleece or down)Essential
Insulates against wind and cooling temperatures between stops.
Common Questions
How long is the tour?
The tour runs about 4–5 hours including off‑road driving, river crossings, and short stops for viewpoints.
Is this suitable for children?
Families with older children are common, but check operator age and safety limits—very young children may not be recommended.
Do I need prior off‑road experience?
No—drivers are experienced guides; passengers need only follow safety instructions.
What should I wear?
Layered clothing with a waterproof outer shell and sturdy footwear; expect wind and possible spray.
Are river crossings safe?
Guides assess river depth and flow constantly; crossings are performed only when conditions are safe.
Is this activity environmentally sensitive?
Yes—Þórsmörk’s moss and riverbeds are fragile; reputable operators follow strict routing to minimize impact.
What to Pack
Waterproof jacket (spray protection); warm mid‑layer (wind chill defense); sturdy waterproof boots (uneven terrain); camera with strap (capture the valley safely)
Did You Know
Þórsmörk sits between the glaciers Eyjafjallajökull and Mýrdalsjökull—its current landscape was largely shaped by glacial floods (jökulhlaups) and volcanic activity, including debris flows from the 2010 Eyjafjallajökull eruption.
Quick Travel Tips
Book early in summer; expect limited cell coverage in the valley; bring cashless payment only for most vendors; consult your operator on meeting point and vehicle requirements
Local Flavor
After the tour, head to Vík for hearty lamb soup, local skyr desserts, and a small selection of cafés or microbreweries—ask locals about the day’s river conditions and any recommended short hikes.
Logistics Snapshot
Closest airport: Keflavík International (KEF) or Reykjavík Domestic (RKV); Driving: Vík is typically used as a staging town—expect 1–2 hours of driving on F‑roads from main access points; Cell Service: intermittent in the valley; Permits: no visitor permits required but river crossings and F‑roads require suitable vehicles—book guided transport.
Sustainability Note
Þórsmörk’s mosses and braided rivers are easily damaged—please stay on designated routes, pack out waste, and follow your guide’s instructions to protect this fragile ecosystem.