Viking Valley & South Coast Glacier Hike Adventure (Summer)

Your adventure begins at 8:00 AM with a hotel pickup Reykjavík. 

Morning: Old Icelandic Books
Begin your adventure with a visit to Old Icelandic Books, where you will have the rare opportunity to handle authentic medieval manuscripts and modern editions of Icelandic sagas. This hands-on experience immerses you in Iceland’s literary heritage and sets the foundation for your Viking journey.

Celtic Roots and Viking Settlements

Embark on a journey through Iceland’s earliest history, where the worlds of Celtic monks and Viking settlers intertwined.

• The Caves of Hella – Begin your exploration at these      mysterious man-made caves, believed to be among Iceland’s oldest inhabited      sites. Here, delve into the history of the Pápar, Irish monks who      sought solitude in Iceland before the arrival of Norse settlers. Learn how      their presence influenced early Icelandic culture and how Celtic      traditions merged with Viking beliefs.
• Keldur in Rangárvellir – Continue to Keldur, one of      Iceland’s oldest surviving Viking farmsteads. This historic site, with its      medieval turf houses, provides a glimpse into the daily lives of      Viking chieftains and farmers. Learn about the powerful clans that      ruled this region, their legendary feuds, and how they shaped Iceland’s      early social structure.

Through these two fascinating locations, uncover the deep cultural connections that shaped Iceland’s Viking Age and the legends that still echo through its landscapes today.

Afternoon: The Viking Valley in Þjórsárdalur

Travel through the breathtaking Þjórsárdalur Valley, a region rich in Viking history and dramatic landscapes. Along the way, visit three of the valley’s most captivating waterfalls, each with its own connection to Iceland’s early settlers.

• Hjálparfoss Waterfall – A stunning twin cascade framed by unique      basalt formations. Viking settlers once gathered here to water their      horses and share tales of survival, making it a place steeped in history      and legend.
• Þjófafoss Waterfall – Known as the "Thieves' Falls,"      this powerful waterfall was feared in Viking times as a place of      execution, where outlaws met their fate. Experience the raw beauty of this      dramatic site, set against the backdrop of Mt. Burfell.
• Gjárfoss Waterfall – A hidden gem within the valley, this      picturesque waterfall flows from the highlands into a serene, moss-covered      canyon, offering a peaceful retreat into nature.

As you traverse Viking Valley, uncover the stories of Iceland’s early settlers, the challenges they faced, and the legends they left behind. This journey through Þjórsárdalur brings you closer to the landscapes that shaped Viking life and lore.

Viking Farmstead, Cultural Immersion, and Feast

Arrive at the Commonwealth Farm in Þjórsárdalur, a reconstructed Viking-era farmstead complete with traditional turf buildings and a Viking church. Immerse yourself in the daily life of early Icelandic settlers as you explore their agricultural practices, craftsmanship, and religious traditions. Gain a deeper understanding of Viking power structures, the role of chieftains, and the importance of community councils in shaping their society.

As the day unfolds, gather around an open fire for an authentic Viking BBQ, just as the Norse once did. Enjoy a hearty feast of traditional Icelandic meats, fresh bread, and rustic side dishes, all prepared using Viking-age cooking techniques. Raise a horn of mead in a celebratory toast, embracing the warrior spirit of the past. If time and weather allow, test your skills in axe throwing or archery before concluding this unforgettable Viking experience.

Evening: Overnight under the Midnight Sun

After a day filled with exploration and adventure, unwind as you journey back to your hotel in South Iceland. Travel through breathtaking landscapes bathed in the warm glow of the Midnight Sun, where the endless twilight creates a magical atmosphere. Arriving in the late evening, take a moment to soak in the serene beauty of Iceland’s summer nights before resting for the next day’s adventure.

Your journey begins with a hotel pick-up in South Iceland, heading towards Iceland’s stunning South Coast, home to volcanic landscapes, glaciers, and dramatic coastlines.

Morning: Waterfalls of the South

Embark on a breathtaking drive along Iceland’s stunning South Coast, where dramatic landscapes unfold at every turn. Along the way, stop at Seljalandsfoss, one of Iceland’s most iconic waterfalls, where you can walk behind the cascading water for a truly immersive experience. Feel the mist on your skin as you take in the spectacular view from behind the falls.

Continue to Skógafoss, a mighty waterfall plunging 60 meters down a sheer cliff, creating a mesmerizing mist that often forms vibrant rainbows on sunny days. Climb the staircase alongside the falls for a panoramic view of the surrounding landscapes, where lush green cliffs contrast beautifully against the roaring waters.

These two awe-inspiring waterfalls are just the beginning of an unforgettable South Coast adventure, offering a perfect blend of raw natural beauty and exhilarating exploration.

Midday: Glacier Hike on Sólheimajökull (3h)

Prepare for an unparalleled adventure on Sólheimajökull Glacier, where you’ll experience a combination of thrills and hands-on exploration.

Glacier Hike – Walk across ancient blue ice, exploring deep crevasses, ice formations, and moulins (glacial sinkholes).

Expert Guidance – Your certified glacier guide will lead you through the constantly changing ice formations while sharing insights about the glacier’s history and future.

Overnight on the South Coast

With memories to last a lifetime  and stunning photographs to cherish, your two-day tour of the Viking Circle and South Coast and Glacier Hike Adventure will be an epic adventure through Iceland’s  untouched wilderness. We will capture the magic of these unique adventures for you to bring back home.