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Northern Lights Escape

6 Days | Travel to Iceland and experience its astounding natural features

4.9 out of 5 based on 246 reviews submitted.
Explorer
From
USD $2,160
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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.

Trip overview

Map of Northern Lights Escape including Iceland
Start
Reykjavik, Iceland
Finish
Reykjavik, Iceland
Theme
Explorer
Destinations
Iceland
Physical rating
Indicates how physically exerting a trip is, and how fit you will need to be to enjoy it. More info on physical ratings
Style
Original
Ages
Min 15
Group size
Min 1 - Max 12
Trip code
BMSW
This trip generates 11.53 kg of CO2-e per person per day.
We offset these emissions on your behalf. But we know that is not enough, so we also have a carbon reduction target.

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.
  • On this trip you must pack as lightly as possible because you will be expected to carry your own bag and although you won't be required to walk long distances with your luggage (max 30 minutes), we strongly recommend keeping the weight between 15kg / 33lb. Most travellers carry their luggage in a backpack, although an overnight bag with a shoulder strap would suffice if you travel lightly. Smaller bags or backpacks with wheels are convenient although we recommend your bag has carry straps to accommodate the cobbled streets, uneven surfaces, stairs and steps you are likely to encounter while carrying your luggage. You'll also need a day pack/bag to carry water and a camera etc for day trips.

Itinerary

Map of Northern Lights Escape including Iceland

Inclusions

Meals

5 breakfasts

Transport

Private minibus with free Wi-Fi

Accommodation

Guesthouse (3 nights), Hotel (2 nights)

Activities
  • Golden Circle - Thingvellir National Park
  • Golden Circle - Strokkur Geysir
  • Golden Circle - Gullfoss Waterfall
  • Jokulsarlon - Glacier Lagoon
  • Skogafoss - Waterfall Visit
  • South Coast - Dyrholaey Viewpoint
  • Vatnajokull - Glacier Hike
  • Reykjavik - Leader-led walking tour
Add on activities
  • Fludir - Secret Lagoon - ISK3300
  • 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
  • Reykjavik - Silfra Fissure Snorkelling Day Trip - ISK21900
  • Nauthólsvík - Thermal Beach - Free
  • Reykjavik - Lava Tunnel Tour - ISK11400
  • Reykjanes Peninsula - Blue Lagoon - ISK18980

Dates and availability

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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.

Read Essential Trip Information

Reviews

4.9 out of 5 based on 246 reviews submitted.
While we try our best to display all reviews, removal may be due to the following: privacy concerns, profanity/inappropriate content or it is unrelated to this trip. We welcome honest feedback and will directly respond to negative reviews.

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Jordan · Traveled March 2023
The Northern Lights Escape tour was one of the most eye-opening and adventurous times of my life. I was able to see and learn about so much of the landscapes and unique Icelandic culture. It has inspired me to stay curious and remain a nature lover forever. I look forward to returning to Iceland!
Review submitted 07 Apr 2023

Stephanie · Traveled March 2023
The northern lights escape tour of Iceland was truly beautiful and breathtaking. I was in awe of the country's natural landscape every day. Our leader, Stefano made the tour even better with daily facts, stories, legends, and folklore to keep us intrigued throughout the tour
Review submitted 31 Mar 2023

Laura · Traveled March 2023
We had a wonderful time on the Northern Lights Escape in Iceland! Stefan was the best guide we could have imagined. We saw so many beautiful sites and learned so much about local history and stories.
Review submitted 01 Apr 2023

Jessica · Traveled March 2023
This trip was well worth it. Larus, our guide, kept a level head during a turn of the weather and got us safely from closed roads to a wonderful hotel. His knowledge of the geology of Iceland improved our trip significantly. From frozen waterfalls, to horses, to the black sand beach, I would highly recommend this tour.
Review submitted 03 Apr 2023

Mathieu · Traveled March 2023
An amazing overview of Iceland's iconic sites - a lot is packed into this trip! We lucked out and saw the Northern Lights twice ... a gorgeous display in the sky! Our guide, Larus, did an amazing job sharing his love of country and culture. Would gladly recommend!
Review submitted 04 Apr 2023
Northern Lights Escape
From
USD $2,160