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Map of Northern Lights Escape including Iceland

Travel to Iceland and experience its astounding natural features

Gurgling hot springs, majestic waterfalls, volcanoes alive and extinct, Europe’s biggest glacier – Iceland, where adventures a la naturale await. Discover the raw natural beauty of this spectacular Nordic wonderland on a 6-day trip that will have you stalking close to epic glacial sheaths, feeling the icy spray of the Gullfoss waterfall and becoming acquainted with the culture and cuisine of an Arctic island outpost unlike any other.

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Terms & Conditions
Start
Reykjavik, Iceland
Finish
Reykjavik, Iceland
Destination
Iceland
Style
Original
Theme
Explorer
Code
BMSW
Physical rating
Ages
Min 15
Group size
Min 1, Max 12

Why you'll love this trip

  • On this trip we are travelling in our own private minibus as this allows us to reach some more off the beaten path destinations and gives us flexibility which would not be possible by public transport. And on top of that all our vehicles in Iceland have complimentary Wi-Fi.

  • There's a lot more to Iceland than ice and vikings. Follow the scenic 'Golden Circle', visiting geothermal springs and geysers, the mighty waterfall of Gullfoss and the site of the nation's first parliament at Thingvellir

  • Drive along the island’s spectacular South Shore past the Reynisdrangar Rocks and volcanic black sand beaches

  • Head to Skaftafell National Park and get adventurous with a hike to Vatnajokull, Europe's largest glacier

  • The aurora borealis is the best lightshow on Earth, and this trip is your ticket. Stay up late to see the northern sky dance with green light (subject to weather conditions and activity)

Is this trip right for you?

  • The Northern Lights (also known as the Aurora Borealis) are a natural display of coloured lights in the night sky of the northern hemisphere. While Northern Light displays can never be guaranteed, as they are a natural phenomenon, you have a higher chance of seeing them in locations at high latitudes, such as Iceland. Please note that weather conditions and overall activity can affect visibility. Keep your fingers crossed for clear skies during your visit. There are a number of apps you can download that show current and forecast activity of the aurora around the world. Some of these apps have a function that allow you to be alerted at night when the aurora becomes visible in your current location.

  • Iceland can be an expensive destination in many ways, from museum entrance fees to visiting a cafe, but especially in terms of eating out. To provide you with an example, a main meal outside of Reykjavik can be around the ISK 4,000 mark. Your leader will be able to advise on how to save money. In remote areas the only option for dinner will be at the guesthouse we are staying at. Please stock up on food at a supermarket prior to arrival if you would like to opt out eating at the guesthouses' restaurants.

  • Iceland can be extremely cold at this time of year. Please bring appropriate clothing for adverse weather conditions. There may be the rare occasion where your leader has to alter the itinerary and activities due to the weather which can cause roads being blocked, sites closure etc. Your leader will discuss the necessary changes and alternatives where possible.

  • Due to the remote locations we visit, there are a few long drives on this trip. This is a great opportunity to enjoy the scenery and spend some time getting to know the other members of your group.

Visit Gulfoss waterfall on your way around Iceland's Golden Circle
Relax in the Blue Lagoon spa
iceland strokkur geyser eruption

Itinerary
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Hallo! Welcome to Iceland. The world's northernmost capital of Reykjavik lies just below the Arctic Circle. The city sees around four hours of sunlight a day in winter and 22 hours or more in summer. Surrounded by volcanic peaks and crystalline ocean, and boasting a vibrant arts and nightlife scene, Reykjavik's contrasts are utterly beguiling. Why not arrive early and head to the National Museum, which depicts the history of Iceland from the 9th century, when the first Vikings from mainland Scandinavia arrived and settled, to the present day, or join locals who gossip and chatter in the Laugardalslaug Geothermal Pool.
Accommodation
  • Hotel (1 night)
Meals Included
There are no meals included on this day.
Special Information
Your adventure begins with a Welcome Meeting at 6pm today – see reception for more details. If you can't arrange a flight that will arrive in time, you may wish to arrive a day early. We'll be happy to book additional accommodation for you (subject to availability). If you're going to be late, please inform the hotel reception. We'll be collecting your insurance details and next of kin information at this meeting, so please have these on hand. You can check in at the joining point hotel anytime after 2pm. While early check-in is not guaranteed, feel free to store your luggage until needed.

Depart Reykjavik early this morning and follow the route of the 'Golden Circle'. Visit Þingvellir National Park, the site of Iceland's first parliament, founded in AD930, and a geological wonder where the American and Eurasian tectonic plates are pulling apart. If you notice a big ridge of water in the landscape, you’re probably looking at the Silfra fissure. Next, head to Iceland's Geysir geothermal area, where you'll see the Strokkur geyser shoot water 30 metres into the air. Be spellbound by the immense beauty and sheer power of the Gullfoss Waterfall, also know as Golden Falls, before continuing on to the Hvolsvollur Valley, where you'll spend the night on an Icelandic farm that has been converted into a guesthouse. Far away from the city lights, the guesthouse is an ideal Northern Lights base. If the skies are clear tonight, why not take a stroll out into the snow and look skywards for the dancing green lights.
Accommodation
  • Guesthouse (1 night)
Included Activities
  • Golden Circle - Thingvellir National Park
  • Golden Circle - Strokkur Geysir
  • Golden Circle - Gullfoss Waterfall
Optional Activities
  • Fludir - Secret Lagoon - ISK3300
Meals Included
  • Breakfast
Special Information
Total driving distance approximately 250 kilometres / 4 hours. Please note that while there is a good chance of seeing the lights of the aurora this far north, there is no guarantee, as they are a natural phenomenon and weather conditions and overall activity can affect visibility. There are a number of apps you can download that show current and forecast activity of the aurora around the world. Some of these apps have a function that allow you to be alerted at night when the aurora becomes visible in your current location. Remember to pack warm clothes, as temperatures can drop to below –5°C.

Start the day with a trip to the eerily beautiful Skógafoss waterfall, one of the biggest waterfalls in Iceland. Skógafoss is a giant of a waterfall, 25 metres wide and also dropping down 60 metres. You can get up close and feel its power, and also climb a (long) windy set of stairs up to a stunning viewpoint. On a sunny day you should be able to spot a rainbow or two in the spray. Continue along Iceland's South Shore to take in more of the country’s renowned natural wonders. From the stepping-stone rock formations of Reynisdrangar, the promontory of Dyrhólaey, and the night black sand beach of Reynisfjara, this is one of the country's most scenic regions. En route you will pass the lava of the Laki eruption of 1782 to 1783. In the afternoon, you will visit the famous Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon, a stunning sea of floating icebergs whose blue contrast with the charcoal coloured sand of the beach. Stop for the night at a farm stay on the South Coast. Weather permitting, there will be another opportunity to step outside and witness the natural wonders of the Northern Lights tonight.
Accommodation
  • Guesthouse (1 night)
Included Activities
  • Jokulsarlon - Glacier Lagoon
  • South Coast - Skogafoss Waterfall
  • South Coast - Dyrholaey Viewpoint
Meals Included
  • Breakfast
Special Information
Total driving distance approximately 350 kilometres / 5 hours

Today you'll take a walk on Europe's biggest ice cap – Vatnajokull – which has around 30 glaciers flowing out from it. No experience is necessary to partake in the hike. It’s sobering to think that the glacier is retreating due to rising world temperatures, and in some years the glacier may be gone. Alternatively, if you would like to opt out, just embark on a hike to the glacier's tongue or return to the glacier lagoon at Jokulsarlon or Fjallsarlon. If you prefer a relaxing morning you can explore the surroundings of the farmstay and head to the Thorbergur Centre. Later on today, journey on to the black sand seaside town of Vik. With the sea on one side and high cliffs on the other, this dramatically positioned quaint little village is Iceland's most southerly mainland settlement.
Accommodation
  • Guesthouse (1 night)
Included Activities
  • Vatnajokull - Glacier Hike
Meals Included
  • Breakfast
Special Information
Total driving distance approximately 250 kilometres / 3-4 hours. Please note that today's glacier walk is dependent on weather conditions. In order to be able to fit the ice crampons you will need to wear ankle high shoes.

This morning we make our way to the beautiful waterfall of Seljalandsfoss, and then back to Reykjavik. Upon arrival take a short guided walk of Reykjavik to get an enhanced appreciation of the city around its landmark attractions and points of interest. Visit the old harbour, the city center and the famous Hallgrimskirkja church. Iceland's capital has an eclectic arts and music scene, an abundance of quirky cafes and a laid-back vibe. Perhaps browse some of the city's great art galleries. If you haven't had enough of the Northern Lights yet, you could head out of town to chase them again this evening, or while away the hours with a soak in the geothermal waters of the famous Blue Lagoon. Whatever you choose, tonight perhaps gather together your fellow Icelandic adventurers and celebrate the end of this Northern Lights Escape.
Accommodation
  • Hotel (1 night)
Included Activities
  • Reykjavik - Walking Tour
Optional Activities
  • Reykjavik - Settlement Exhibition - ISK2500
  • Reykjavik - Saga Museum - ISK3000
  • Reykjavik - Whales of Iceland Museum - ISK3400
  • Reykjavik - Maritime Museum - ISK2050
  • Reykjavik - Harpa Concert Hall - Free
  • Reykjavik - Perlan Museum - ISK4990
Meals Included
  • Breakfast
Special Information
Total driving distance approximately 200 kilometres / 3 hours. Please note that arrival back into Reykjavik is usually at around 3pm. Due to frequent delays during winter it is recommended you do not book any time slots for the Blue Lagoon before 6pm (or preferably tomorrow). Please also keep in mind that the Blue Lagoon has limited availability, and during peak times tickets sell out far in advance. We recommend you book your time slot online in advance if you would like to be sure of a certain time/date for your visit: bluelagoon.com.

Today is departure day and time to say 'sjaumst'. As there are no activities planned, you are able to depart the hotel at any time. Check out time is at midday. If you are departing later, you can arrange to store your luggage at the hotel. If you would like to stay longer, we are happy to book additional accommodation for you (subject to availability). Perhaps browse some of the city's great art galleries. If you feel like something more active, book yourself on a Silfra Fissure snorkelling adventure, where you’ll discover this underwater ridge with water visibility of up to 120 metres.
Optional Activities
  • Reykjavik - Silfra Fissure Snorkelling Day Trip - ISK21900
  • Nauthólsvík - Thermal Beach - Free
  • Reykjavik - Lava Tunnel Tour - ISK11400
  • Reykjanes Peninsula - Blue Lagoon - ISK18980
Meals Included
  • Breakfast
Want to tailor this itinerary?

Meals

5 breakfasts

Transport

Private minibus with free Wi-Fi

Accommodation

Guesthouse (3 nights), Hotel (2 nights)

Included activities

  • Golden Circle - Thingvellir National Park
  • Golden Circle - Strokkur Geysir
  • Golden Circle - Gullfoss Waterfall
  • Jokulsarlon - Glacier Lagoon
  • South Coast - Skogafoss Waterfall
  • South Coast - Dyrholaey Viewpoint
  • Vatnajokull - Glacier Hike
  • Reykjavik - Walking Tour

Dates & availability

Trip departures are unavailable.

There are currently no scheduled departures on our Northern Lights Escape trip. If you are interested in other trips in the region visit one of the links below.

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Important notes

1. A single supplement is available if you’d prefer not to share a room on this trip. The single supplement applies to all nights of your trip and is subject to availability. Please note that due to the small properties we use in Europe there is only a limited amount of single supplements available per trip departure. Please speak to your booking agent for further information.
2. Iceland can be an expensive destination in many ways, from museum entrance fees to outdoor activities, but especially in terms of eating out. Your leader will be able to advise on how to save money. In remote areas the only option for dinner will be at the guesthouse we are staying at. Stock up on food at a supermarket prior to arrival if you would like to opt out eating at the guesthouse's restaurant. Please make sure you read the trip notes carefully in order to know what is and what isn't included in the trip price.

Essential trip information

Want an in-depth insight into this trip? Essential Trip Information provides a detailed itinerary, visa info, how to get to your hotel, what's included - pretty much everything you need to know about this adventure and more.

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