Hvolsvöllur in 1 Day for Friends - Nauthúsagil Ravine exploration
In Collaboration with Midgard Adventure. Updated on February 14, 2026.
Full-day private super jeep tour to Þórsmörk (Thorsmork) Nature Reserve. Travel from Midgard Basecamp in Hvolsvöllur into the Þórsmörk valley, crossing unbridged glacier rivers and visiting canyons, viewpoints, and glacier vistas. Route and stops are adapted to weather and road conditions; guide-led, flexible pacing with short hikes and photo stops.
This itinerary was created in collaboration with Midgard Adventure, inspired by the tour PRIVATE Þórsmörk Super Jeep | Day Tour | Midgard. Please check the tour information during your booking process.
Highlights
- Nauthúsagil Ravine exploration
- Gígjökull / Eyjafjallajökull glacier viewpoints
- Stakkholtsgjá Canyon short hike
- Valahnúkur summit viewpoint
- River crossings by Super Jeep (Krossá, Hvanná)
- Scenic highland access off main roads
- Local guide stories and natural-history insights
- Possible Arctic fox sightings
Itinerary
Day 1
Private super-jeep day tour into Þórsmörk. Start at Midgard Basecamp in Hvolsvöllur; return to the same location. Timings are planned for a 09:00 departure and a ~7-hour tour; final route and order of stops are adjusted by the guide for safety and best conditions.
Meet & briefing at Midgard Basecamp
Arrive at Midgard Basecamp for check-in, safety briefing, and vehicle introduction. Guide outlines the day's route, river-crossing procedure, and hiking options.
Tips from local experts:
- Arrive at Midgard Basecamp (Dufpaksbraut 14) at least 15 minutes before the scheduled departure to complete check-in and briefing.
- Bring a small daypack with your layered clothing, camera, water, and any required medication — the basecamp has space to leave larger luggage.
- If you pre-ordered a lunchbox or hot dog barbecue, confirm pickup with the guide during check-in.
Super Jeep transfer to Þórsmörk (river crossings)
Depart Midgard Basecamp and travel by super jeep into the Þórsmörk highland valley. Expect unbridged river crossings (Krossá, Hvanná) and rugged highland track driving.
Tips from local experts:
- Keep phones and light items in a secure bag during river crossings — vehicles are equipped for wet conditions but loose items can get wet.
- Wear sturdy shoes and have outer waterproof layers ready before leaving the vehicle; conditions change quickly in the highlands.
- Follow the guide's instructions during river crossings; stay seated and avoid opening doors until instructed.
Explore Nauthúsagil Ravine
Short guided walk into the Nauthúsagil ravine to view dramatic canyon walls and river-carved features. Route here can be narrow and uneven; guide will manage access.
Tips from local experts:
- Wear grippy footwear — steps and narrow paths in the ravine can be slippery, especially after rain or melt.
- Keep cameras secure and mindful of footing near edges; group sizes are kept small for safety in confined sections.
- If you have mobility concerns, notify the guide — an easier viewpoint nearby is often available as an alternative.
Stakkholtsgjá Canyon short hike
Walk into Stakkholtsgjá canyon to experience its mossy walls and small waterfalls. The path includes some steps and narrow stretches; optional deeper scramble for more adventurous guests.
Tips from local experts:
- Bring a waterproof jacket — spray from small falls and canyon humidity can make the path damp.
- Carry only essentials into the canyon; backpacks are fine but keep hands free for balance in tighter sections.
- Listen to the guide about how far to proceed; the group can split between those who want a short viewpoint and those who want a deeper canyon walk.
Lunch break (on-site picnic or Midgard hot dog barbecue if pre-ordered)
Rest and eat: guests can use their pre-ordered lunchboxes or hot dog barbecue, or eat a packed lunch. The guide will select a sheltered, scenic spot when possible.
Tips from local experts:
- If you prefer the hot dog barbecue, confirm at booking — if not booked bring a packed lunch; there are no guaranteed food sales in the valley.
- Bring a reusable cup if you want hot drinks from the vehicle; guides can typically provide hot water but cup space is limited.
- Keep waste packed out and give used food containers to the guide for proper disposal at basecamp.
Valahnúkur summit viewpoint
Short hike toward Valahnúkur for panoramic views across Þórsmörk valley and surrounding glaciers. Moderate incline with rocky sections; optional for those preferring to stay at lower viewpoints.
Tips from local experts:
- Wear layered clothing and a windproof shell — summit viewpoints are exposed and can be significantly cooler than the valley floor.
- Expect uneven, rocky ground; trekking poles can help on the ascent and descent for stability.
- Plan a few minutes at the top for group photos; guide will advise on safest viewpoints away from steep drop-offs.
Gígjökull / glacier viewpoint stop
Short stop at viewpoints offering sights of Gígjökull and the Eyjafjallajökull region. Guide explains the 2010 eruption impacts and glacier dynamics.
Tips from local experts:
- Keep a small zoom lens or binoculars handy for better glacier detail; viewpoints may be a distance from ice fronts.
- Watch for gusts near open viewpoints — secure hats and lightweight items before stepping out.
- Listen to the guide's safety briefing about staying on stable ground; do not approach glacier edges.
Scenic transfer back to Midgard Basecamp (river crossings)
Return drive through the highlands, re-crossing rivers and traversing the scenic route back toward Hvolsvöllur. Final opportunity to view valley panoramas and wildlife en route.
Tips from local experts:
- Keep cameras ready for last-minute wildlife or landscape shots during the drive; windows on the highland side usually offer better views.
- Remain seated during river crossings and follow the guide's instructions for boarding and disembarking.
- If you changed into dry clothes for hiking, now is a good time to switch back before arriving at basecamp.
Return & debrief at Midgard Basecamp – Drop-off
Arrival back at Midgard Basecamp for debrief, return of any shared gear, and drop-off. If your booking included pickup/drop-off from other locations, the guide/driver will complete any transfers as arranged.
Tips from local experts:
- Allow time at the end to ask the guide for local recommendations or to confirm arranged drop-off locations (Reykjavík, Selfoss, Keflavík if pre-booked).
- Check you have all personal items before leaving the vehicle; guides can help check storage compartments if needed.
- If you enjoyed the hot dog barbecue or lunchbox, confirm collection of any leftover packaging so it can be disposed of properly at basecamp.
Itinerary Attributes
| Days | 1 |
| Highlights | 8 |
| Season | - |
| Month | - |
| Persona | Friends |
| Transfers | 2 |
| Restaurants | 1 |
| Total Activities | 7 |
| Total Places | 7 |
| Activities Types | Hotel, Transfer, Outdoor, Meal, Attraction |
