Eyjafjallajokull and Thorsmork Experience

Traveling through Iceland’s wild interior is a dream for many, but few experiences compare to the Eyjafjallajokull and Thorsmork tour offered by Arctic Trucks. This private, all-day adventure combines the thrill of off-road driving with breathtaking views of glaciers, volcanoes, and rugged canyons. It’s a perfect choice for those seeking a personalized and immersive way to explore Iceland’s less accessible gems — without the hassle of self-driving.

What makes this tour stand out? For starters, you get to sit back in a modified super Jeep with a dedicated guide-driver who knows every tricky patch and scenic spot. Plus, the itinerary includes exclusive stops at iconic natural sites like Seljalandsfoss and the hidden canyon of Stakkholtsgjá. On the flip side, the price is on the higher end, which might give some pause, but the level of comfort, expertise, and unique access makes it well worth considering for adventure lovers and photography enthusiasts alike.

If you’re someone who loves off-the-beaten-path exploration, values knowledgeable guides, and wants to experience Iceland’s raw natural beauty from a comfortable seat, this tour is a solid pick. It’s particularly well-suited for travelers with a sense of adventure and a desire for a personalized, high-quality experience.

Key Points

• Exclusive private tour with just your group and guide for a tailored experience
• Expert guide/driver ensures safe, knowledgeable navigation through challenging terrain
• Multiple scenic stops including waterfalls, canyons, and glaciers
• Off-road driving in a super Jeep that can handle Iceland’s toughest roads
• Comprehensive itinerary with time for photos, exploration, and learning
• High price point, but commensurate with personalized service and access

An Excursion Into Iceland’s Rugged Heartland

This tour offers a genuine escape from the crowded tourist sites. Instead of sharing the road with dozens of other buses or groups, you’ll be driven in a powerful, heavily modified super Jeep—think 38-inch tires and all-terrain capability—that’s designed to conquer Iceland’s toughest trails. It’s a vehicle that makes you feel more like an explorer than a tourist.

The experience begins with hotel pickup in Reykjavík around 8:30 am, promising a smooth start to a full day of adventure. The compact group size means your guide can focus entirely on your interests, answering questions and customizing the experience. From the moment you meet your guide at the designated meeting point, you know you’re in capable hands.

In-Depth Look at the Itinerary

Stop 1: Seljalandsfoss

Your first stop is the famous Seljalandsfoss waterfall. This site is famous for the trail looping behind the cascading water. As one reviewer noted, “The trail that circles Seljalandsfoss is its most distinctive feature,” and it’s a sight you’ll never forget. The mist from the waterfall keeps the rocks slippery, so wear good shoes and be prepared to get a little wet—an unavoidable part of the charm. You’ll get about 30 minutes here, plenty of time for photos and a quick walk behind the falls.

Stop 2: Stakkholtsgjá Canyon

Next, you’ll venture into Stakkholtsgjá, a narrow, 2-kilometer-long canyon carved by streams. It’s a hidden gem in the Thorsmork Nature Reserve, often overlooked by larger tours. Here, you’ll be able to walk through and marvel at the steep walls and flowing water. One reviewer loved that “we drove through rivers and up a mountain in the snow,” highlighting the thrill of navigating this tough terrain. The canyon offers a dramatic, almost otherworldly landscape that’s perfect for photos and quiet moments of awe.

Stop 3: Eyjafjallajokull Volcano and Glacier

The highlight for many is the visit to the Eyjafjallajokull glacier. Covering over 100 square kilometers, it remains one of Iceland’s most iconic volcanic features. You’ll get a close-up view of this sixth-largest glacier, which famously erupted in 2010, disrupting air travel worldwide. The guide will explain the glacier’s connection to nearby volcanoes like Katla, and you’ll learn how meltwater from the glacier feeds rivers, including one that flows into the stunning Seljalandsfoss. Expect about an hour at this stop, with plenty of photo opportunities of the icy landscape.

What the Reviews Say: Authentic Insights

Reviewers consistently praise the guides’ expertise and friendliness. One noted, “Ingo, our tour guide, was one of the nicest people you’ll ever meet,” emphasizing how much the personal touch enhances the experience. Others appreciated the knowledgeable guidance through challenging terrain—one reviewer described it as “driving off-road, through rivers, and up a mountain in the snow,” which captures the sense of true adventure.

Many reviewers mention the value of the private nature of the tour. Seeing Iceland’s wild side without sharing the experience with large groups makes the day more flexible and personal. A traveler from a recent review called it “an epic day of self-driving,” though the main driver is always a seasoned guide who ensures safety.

The Jeep and the Journey: Comfort and Capability

The super Jeep is key to the experience. With a 38-inch modification (or bigger), it’s designed to handle Iceland’s roughest roads, including river crossings, steep inclines, and rocky paths. Reviewers describe the trucks as “amazing,” with one saying, “I want one,” reflecting the vehicle’s impressive capabilities.

The experience isn’t just about the drive—it’s about the feeling of freedom when navigating these tough terrains, with the guide steering you through rivers and over rocks, making the impossible possible. The vehicle’s size and power give you confidence, allowing you to focus on the scenery rather than worry about the roads.

What about the price?

Yes, at around $1,834 for up to three people, it’s a premium experience. But considering the personalized service, the expert guide, and exclusive access to places most travelers never see**, it offers good value. The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, so no worries about logistics, and the all-day adventure promises a full, immersive experience.

Practical Details and What You Need

• Duration: Around 10 hours, enough time to see key sites without feeling rushed
• Start time: 8:30 am, so you get a full day of exploration
• What to bring: Warm outdoor clothing, good shoes, your camera, snacks, and a sense of adventure
• Accessibility: Most travelers can participate, but good shoes are recommended for walking at stops
• Self-drive option? No, the guide drives, so you can relax and enjoy the views
• Cancellation: Free up to 24 hours before the tour, offering peace of mind if plans change

The Experience, Beyond the Highlights

What truly sets this tour apart is the feeling of exclusivity. You’re not just another tourist on a bus; you’re in a specially modified vehicle designed to access Iceland’s most challenging terrains. Several reviewers highlight how this is a “once-in-a-lifetime” drive, with one even saying, “I want a truck like this,” after experiencing the thrill of river crossings and steep climbs.

The stops themselves are well-chosen—each offering something unique. Seljalandsfoss’s cascading spray, the narrow, dramatic Stakkholtsgjá canyon, and the mighty Eyjafjallajokull glacier all provide different perspectives of Iceland’s volcanic landscape. The guides’ local knowledge adds depth to the journey, making the stops educational as well as scenic.

The Authenticity and Value

Despite the high price, many reviews underscore how the personalized guide, private group, and off-road access make it worth every penny. The fact that you’re driving in a high-capability truck and visiting sites inaccessible to most makes this experience stand out. Plus, the professionalism of the Arctic Trucks team—from their drivers to the detailed planning—means you’re in good hands.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience genuinely suits adventure seekers and photography enthusiasts eager for exclusive access to Iceland’s wild interior. It’s perfect for couples or small groups who want a tailored, flexible day with plenty of opportunities for memorable photos and stories. If you value expert guidance and off-the-beaten-path sights, this tour delivers.

However, if you prefer a more relaxed, less physically exposed experience, or if budget is a concern, you might want to explore other options. But for those looking for adventure, comfort, and authenticity, this tour hits the mark.

The Sum Up

The Eyjafjallajokull and Thorsmork private tour offers an exceptional way to experience Iceland’s volcanic wilderness without the hassle of self-driving. The combination of expert guides, powerful super Jeeps, and unique scenic stops makes it perfect for adventure lovers who want a highly personalized journey. While the price is on the premium side, the level of access, safety, and comfort justify the investment.

It’s especially suitable for travelers craving a hands-on, behind-the-scenes look at Iceland’s most dramatic landscapes—sites that are often out of reach for regular tours. The knowledgeable guides, detailed itinerary, and off-road thrills make this a memorable, bucket-list-worthy experience.

For those who want a day packed with breathtaking views, adrenaline-pumping driving, and insightful commentary, this tour is a smart choice. It’s a one-of-a-kind way to see Iceland’s wild side, all from the comfort of a specially equipped vehicle with a guide who truly knows the terrain.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included? Yes, the tour includes pickup and drop-off from your hotel in Reykjavík, making the start and end seamless.

What should I wear? Dress in warm outdoor clothing and good shoes for walking at stops. Layers are recommended, as Iceland’s weather can change quickly.

Can everyone participate? Most travelers can join, but good shoes and a basic level of mobility are advised. Service animals are allowed.

What’s the duration of the tour? The tour lasts approximately 10 hours, giving you plenty of time to explore, take photos, and enjoy each stop.

Do I drive the vehicle? No, a professional guide/driver handles the driving. You sit back and enjoy the scenery.

What’s the cost? The price is around $1,834.23 per group of up to three people, which covers the vehicle, guide, and transportation.

What if I need to cancel? You can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the start time. Cancellations less than 24 hours aren’t refunded.

Are meals included? No, lunch is not included, but you can bring snacks, or your guide can give recommendations for nearby spots.

What makes this tour different from others? The private, off-road capability of the super Jeep combined with the expert local guides and carefully curated stops make it stand out for authenticity and adventure.

In summary, if you’re after a high-end, personalized, and adventurous tour that takes you deep into Iceland’s volcanic heart, this experience is hard to beat. It offers a blend of thrilling driving, stunning vistas, and expert insights—perfect for those who want to see the island’s wild side in comfort and style.