Þórsmörk, Elves and Trolls

Elves and Trolls is a Super Jeep excursion from Reykjavik to Þórsmörk, run by Boreal. A Boreal driver-guide does the driving and guests ride as passengers, so this is a guided day rather than a self-drive trip. It is a small-group tour of 8 to 10 hours covering about 360 to 380 km, with pick-up at 8:30.

Þórsmörk lies between the glaciers Eyjafjallajökull, Mýrdalsjökull and Tindfjallajökull. The operator explains that the high, glacier-covered volcanoes shelter the valley from coastal wind, and that the many glacial rivers which have to be crossed keep it clear of heavy traffic. That makes it popular with hikers and nature lovers, and the operator says off-road fans will enjoy the challenge of the river crossings, which the Super Jeep makes possible.

On the way the route passes the former glacial lagoon of Gígjökull, which was filled with volcanic material during the Eyjafjallajökull eruption in April 2010. It also passes the Seljalandsfoss waterfall, the cultivated south and the active Hengill volcano. The operator’s own line for the day is to go where the locals go. The route can change with the season, the road, snow and weather conditions.

Boreal recommends good shoes, warm wind and waterproof clothing and sunglasses. The tour is given in English, with other languages on request, and meals are not included. Departures from hotels outside Reykjavik are available on request, as is a private tailor-made version. Price is not published on the page, so contact Boreal for a quote. It suits visitors who want river crossings and a valley away from the busiest routes.