Explore the volcanoes of Thorsmörk and Eyjafjallajökull in southern Iceland and discover the recent lava activity of 2010. Yes, it’s that volcano! After a pick-up from your hotel in Reykjavik, Hveragerdi, Selfoss, Hella or Hvolsvöllur. Travel southeast through the mountain pass and Hellisheiði Plateau towards the town of Hveragerdi. A geothermal hot bed, the surrounding hills are full of active steam vents, and the town is known for its greenhouses heated by water from volcanic hot springs. You will soon find yourself in the town Selfoss, which was settled by Þórir Ásason, Iceland’s first known settler, who is said to have spent the winter of 873-74 under Mt. Ingólfsfell, west of the Ölfusá River. Your next waypoint is the charming town of Hella, situated on the banks of one of the best salmon rivers in Iceland. Pass through the Saga Centre, dedicated to Njál’s saga, and learn that South Iceland is rich in saga history. Next, turn off the ring road towards Thorsmork. You’ll get a brief glimpse of the impressive Seljalandsfoss Waterfall, which you can explore on your way back. It is possible to walk up into the recess behind the thundering torrent of water. Named after the Norse god Thor, Thorsmörk richly deserves its reputation as the “Valley of the Gods.” Soon the road ends, and the highland tracks begin. As you will be traveling by super Jeeps, there’s no need to fret. These mighty monsters munch their way through fjords and flowing rivers that would impossible in a normal vehicle. Stop at the base of Gigjökull Glacier, before hiking along trails and into river canyons. Explore the magnificent canyon of Stakkaholtsgjá, and appreciate the incredible mix of glaciers, rocks, and wooded areas, the last a bit of a rarity in Iceland!