Soon after arriving to Reykjavik, you'll head due north to the town of Akureyri to delve into the region's abundance of natural wonders including geothermally heated springs to soak away your weariness and spotting puffins and other seabirds on Grimsey Island. This itinerary will get you up close to resident whales off the coast as well as rubbing shoulders with local Icelanders who are happy to share their culture and history with you! By land and by sea you'll see the best that Iceland has to offer including icebergs, waterfalls, traditional cuisine, and much more!
Welcome to Iceland! Upon arrival at the airport, clear Immigration, collect your luggage and exit customs. Meet your driver at the airport outside arrivals and you will be transferred to the Blue Lagoon to relax before your 3:30pm transfer to the Reykjavik domestic airport for your evening flight on to Akureyri. (This service is on a private basis.)
Upon arrival in Akureyri, you will be met and transferred from the airport to your accommodations. (This service is on a private basis.)
The North is known for Iceland´s largest town outside the capital, Akureyri. In this surprisingly lush town you have shopping and dining opportunities as well as museums and a botanical garden. It is also the perfect starting point for excursions, such as whale watching from Húsavík, visiting Lake Mývatn and the surrounding geothermal mud springs and seeing the most voluminous waterfall, Dettifoss.
Welcome to Akureyri, a charming city nestled in the stunning landscapes of northern Iceland. Embark on a captivating 3 hour city tour, beginning at the Hof Cultural Center or Akureyri Cruiseship Port. As you step into the heart of Akureyri, your knowledgeable guide will paint a vivid picture of the city’s storied past, from its humble beginnings as a trading post to its emergence as a bustling cultural hub. Discover hidden gems and historic landmarks tucked away in the city center as you meander through its quaint streets. Your journey continues with a stop at a local restaurant, where you’ll have the opportunity to tantalize your taste buds with authentic Icelandic delicacies. From succulent seafood to hearty lamb dishes, savor the flavors of the region while your guide shares insights into Icelandic cuisine and dining etiquette.
After your culinary exploration, you’ll wander along the picturesque shores of Eyjafjörður, offering breathtaking views of mountains and tranquil waters. Take in the natural beauty of the surroundings and soak up the serenity of this idyllic setting. Throughout the tour, your guide will provide valuable recommendations for dining, activities, and experiences to enhance your stay in Akureyri. Whether you’re craving adrenaline-fueled adventures or peaceful moments in nature, there’s something for everyone to enjoy in this captivating city.
Included: Fully guided tour, local food at restaurants.
What to Bring: Warm clothing, water bottle, camera. (This service is on a group basis.)
Drawing on a centuries-old tradition, Mývatn Nature Baths offer bathers a completely natural experience that begins with a relaxing dip amidst clouds of steam rising up from a fissure deep in the Earth's surface, and ends with a luxurious swim in a pool of geothermal water drawn from depths of up to 2.500 meters. This afternoon, you'll have the option to see and enjoy these baths by private transfer. Meet your driver in the lobby of Hotel Kea 4:45pm for your transfer.
Today's 2.5 to 3.5 hour tour is a classic whale watching adventure! Being your tour at 9am by ferry transfer and embark on this exciting sightseeing excursion that takes you into Eyjafjörður. Here you can experience the unparalleled comfort and stability of the ship whilst viewing the sights of the fjord under the commentary of one of our excellent guides. You will be taught all about the whales and nature in the surrounding area!
The Grimsey Summer Tour begins with a lovely ferry ride to Grímsey. The boat ride is an exciting in itself- very often dolphins, humpback whales and even blue whales are spotted and sometimes swim with the boat!
Upon arrival in Grímsey, you will be met by your guide right after you’ve exited the ferry. The climate can be different from what you can expect on the mainland. You’ll get to know the history of Grimsey village and its inhabitants, cross the Arctic Circle and if weather and conditions allow, see the Orbis et Globus monument that is placed on the island! The ferry to Grímsey leaves from Dalvík at 9:00 AM. You will arrive at the island at 12:00 PM. The tour starts at 12:30 and lasts till 15:00. You’ll have time to look around on your own after the tour before the ferry departs at 4:00 PM or 5:00 PM. The ferry then arrives in Dalvík again at 7:00 PM or 8:00 PM in the evening. Please plan to transfer on your own from Akureyri to Dalvik and back. (This service is on a group basis.)
Today, meet your driver in the lobby of Hotel Kea at 11:20am and be transferred to the airport in good time for your onward flight. Upon arrival in Reykjavik, transfer on your own to the city and check in to your accommodations for the evening. (This service is on a private basis.)
The capital of Iceland, Reykjavík or ‘Steamy Cove’, named after its geothermal location, is a vibrant city with a lively culture and fun-filled nightlife, not to mention the oldest Parliament - the Althingi - in the world. With a relatively small population of 200,000 people living in the Greater Reykjavík area (2/3 of the country’s total population), Reykjavík boasts panoramic views of the mountains and the Atlantic Ocean on almost all sides. In the summer, you can sit by the harbor at midnight and watch the sun dip slightly below the horizon, before it makes its way up again. The city is unique for its numerous wells that allow all the city’s residents to enjoy inexpensive central heating and a smoke-free city.
The Reykjavik Food Walk is about experiencing local food, people, history & traditions! In the most delicious sightseeing tour in Iceland, you will explore downtown Reykjavik through delicious local cuisines that you would never come across in your typical “to-do in Iceland” itinerary. Enjoy strolling around the city and visiting 5-6 wonderful local restaurants with a fun & knowledgeable guide by your side. You will visit everything from well-known ‘must visit restaurants’ to small family run businesses and secret local hangouts. While everything you will have on the tour is traditional Icelandic in some way, we decided to leave the fermented shark, rams’ testicles and sheep head off the menu. Instead, you can explore why Icelanders are indeed proud of their local food by focusing on the absolute most delicious traditional cuisines – That they still enjoy today! Tour lasts about 2.5 hours. (This service is on a group basis.)
After breakfast, you will be picked up at 9:30am this morning and transferred to the RKV airport to pick up your rental car. This vehicle will be a Mitsubishi Outlander 2.4 Phev or similar. You will have use of the car from August 12th until the 16th, where you will return the rental to RKV Airport. With your new car, head west towards your next adventure!
The tour begins at 4pm in the picturesque town of Grundarfjörður, on the tip of Iceland’s famous Snæfellsnes Peninsula. There you will meet your friendly guide, who will provide you with all the equipment and safety tips you need. Once situated with your kayaks, you’ll paddle out onto the stunning fjord for a relaxing, 2-hour kayaking adventure.
The day’s highlight is surely the glorious Mount Kirkjufell (Church mountain), a cone-like mountain that coils up into the sky. The way that you experience Kirkjufell depends on the season, as it is only covered in snow in winter. During the summer it is covered in grass, meaning that it rises like an emerald turret above the icy-blue fjord. Fans of HBO’s Game of Thrones series will recognize Kirkjufell as a crucial filming location on the show. It appeared as ‘The Arrowhead’ Mountain situated North of the Wall. Nearby, the Kirkjufellsfoss Waterfall enhances the scene’s beauty. Discover why Kirkjufell is the most photographed mountain in the whole of Iceland.
Look for the occasional playful seal and seabirds swooping overhead. The quiet beauty of the fjord makes for a wonderful hour tour that everyone will enjoy. Your friendly kayaking guide will keep you safe and give you fascinating insights into the area. The guide will also help you find the best angle for your photo of Kirkjufell! Finish the tour around 6pm and make your way back to Reykjavik for your final night before hitting the ring road towards Selfoss!
Included: Experienced tour guide, all necessary equipment and gear, a full safety demonstration, warm refreshments at the end of your tour.
What to bring: Warm clothing, thermal layers, waterproof camera or phone bag (recommended). (This service is on a group basis.)
Your adventure moves beyond Reykjavík today as you begin your drive to the World Heritage Site of Thingvellir National Park. The national park is said to be the original parliament of Iceland. Enjoy the views across the clear waters of Lake Thingvallavatn and a walk in the stunning National Park before going up to Öxarárfoss waterfall in the Natural Park. Visit the thundering Gullfoss waterfall and famous geysir geothermal area, where the geyser of Strokkur regularly erupts and numerous other hot springs bubble and steam. Nearby the geysir area, you may want to stop by the Efstudalur Farm, for some shopping and enjoy delicious offerings at a local restaurant and ice-cream shop.
Today, enjoy a beautiful journey that showcases Iceland's stunning landscapes. The route takes you along the country's southern coast, passing through diverse scenery that includes volcanic fields, glaciers, mountains, and coastal cliffs.
Make your way from Selfoss to Vik at your leisure. Be sure to stop at Skogafoss for one of the most spectacular waterfalls you'll ever see, and pop into the Skogafoss Museum while there for an impressive collection of original Icelandic knick knacks. We also recommend stopping at Þórsmörk Nature Reserve. Here you can explore the reserve through numerous hiking trails, offering views of volcanic formations, moss-covered lava fields, and vibrant flora. Þórsmörk is also a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, offering opportunities for camping, birdwatching, and glacier sightings. Its remote location and pristine wilderness make it a must-visit destination for nature lovers seeking adventure in Iceland.
Later, as you approach Vik, you'll be greeted by the dramatic landscapes of the Reynisfjara black sand beach, with its striking basalt columns and towering sea stacks. Vik itself is a charming coastal village, offering stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean and nearby cliffs.
The Glacier Experience tour starts with an introduction to the necessary glacier equipment provided in the tour and the basic safety rules needed to explore the beautiful Sólheimajökull glacier. An expert guide will be there to ensure your safety and answer any questions
throughout the whole tour. Then, you will take off on a short but scenic walk across the pitch-black volcanic ash and sands between the Sólheimajökull glacier and the parking lot. The ash and sand are from the volcanic eruption in Eyjafjallajökull stratovolcano that took place in the year 2010, and is a reminder of the closeness of volcanoes and glaciers in Iceland. That's truly a fantastic and unique start!
Right at the foothills of the glacier, you will lace up your crampons and follow your guide to explore this otherworldly natural wonder, a rugged, raw, and ever-changing hub of ancient frozen water. This glacier hike is an adventure like no other, and with the rapid rate of global climate change, this popular activity is only available in very few parts of the world. You will see how the primal elements shape and affect the glacier, creating mesmerizing labyrinths of ice ridges and deep V-shaped crevasses that crisscross and scar the surface of the ice. Not to mention the enormous sinkholes, called “moulins,” that sometimes have drilled their way through the glacier, draining the meltwater of the ice through little waterfalls and streams. The hiking part of the tour is about 2 hours, with 1-1.5 hours spent on the glistening glacier.
Included: Guided Glacier Hike, specialized glacier gear, all required safety equipment, English speaking certified adventure Guide, pick-up & drop-off from Reykjavík (optional).
What to bring: Warm outdoor clothing, waterproof jacket and pants, headwear, gloves, good hiking boots with ankle support. (This service is on a group basis.)
Your friendly Zodiac guide will meet you at the Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon parking lot by the big blue pickup truck at least 30 minutes before your departure time. There is a short bus ride to the dock. You’ll then fasten your flotation suit or life vest and prepare for an
incredible Icelandic glacier tour, taking you to Breiðamerkurjökull Glacier and the deep serenity of the lagoon.
This tour allows a full 60 minutes of cruising on Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon in the Zodiac boat, exploring the majestic sights and seeing the wildlife. In addition to seals, you’re likely to see a variety of bird species. During the summer, you are likely to see Arctic Terns as they migrate. Your guide will also point out graceful Arctic Skuas nesting along the lake’s edge, as well as mighty seagulls. Drifting between these looming, curiously shaped icebergs on a Jökulsárlón Zodiac boat tour is an enchanting and otherworldly experience, enjoyed by photographers and adventurers alike. On the surface of the icebergs, you will see vibrant blue tones and gray veins, which were formed from ash residue as a result of various volcanic eruptions.
Make sure to keep your camera ready at all times so that you’re able to catch the crystal-clear reflections of the icebergs on the surface of the water, as well as the humbling glacier scenery. Over time, the appearance of the lagoon and surrounding areas could change drastically if the icebergs melt. So, if you’re planning to enjoy a Zodiac boat tour at the lagoon, we recommend making the best of your time here and exploring the area. Take the time to make the short walk to the nearby Diamond Beach. This black sand beach, officially called Breiðamerkursandur, is a truly hypnotic sight. Pieces of the icebergs at Jökulsárlón break off and float to this beach, resting and glistening against the black sand.
What to bring: warm layers, waterproof top layer, headwear, gloves, scarves, sturdy shoes. (This service is on a group basis.)
Today, you will travel back to Reykjavik. Admire the stunning scenery as you make your way to your accommodations.
Although your adventure must come to an end today, you will be leaving fully refreshed and surely enamored with the rugged beauty of Iceland. Once you have checked out of your hotel in Reykjavík, you will make your own way to the airport in good time to return your rental car and for your international departure flight.
We wish you safe and happy travels home!
Set in the heart of Iceland’s second city, Hotel Kea is an Akureyri landmark. Overlooking a stunning fjord, it exudes a classic ambience and offers outstanding service in an unbeatable location. From smart singles to the Hotel Kea luxury suite, our rooms exude class and comfort, in keeping with the hotel’s heritage. We offer a wide range of excellent options to suit your needs, including double, triple and family rooms. Plus there’s the opportunity for something more in our superior and deluxe options.
A contemporary hotel situated in the heart of Reykjavik, Iceland, Hotel Miðgarður is stylishly designed with comfortable furnishings and modern conveniences. Guests can enjoy a range of facilities, including a fitness center, a restaurant serving Icelandic cuisine, and a full service bar. The hotel's central location makes it a convenient base for exploring Reykjavik's attractions, shops, and restaurants. In the evenings return and enjoy the spa and outdoor hot tub for some pure Icelandic bliss.
Hotel South Coast is located next to the new city centre of Selfoss in south Iceland only 96 km from the Keflavik international airport and 58 km from Reykjavik City. Hotel South Coast is the perfect choice for the wandering traveller. As most of Iceland spectacular nature is located in South Iceland then Hotel South Coast becomes the ideal base for your travels. We offer 72 rooms including 7 Deluxe rooms and 8 with wheel chair access.
A charming boutique hotel located in the countryside of South Iceland, Farmhouse Lodge offers a unique and cozy retreat surrounded by picturesque landscapes with a traditional Icelandic farmhouse aesthetic combined with modern amenities, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere for guests. Here you'll fine comfortable rooms, each thoughtfully decorated with rustic touches and equipped with modern conveniences. Guests can enjoy delicious farm-to-table dining experiences, with meals prepared using locally sourced ingredients. The hotel also offers various activities and experiences, allowing guests to explore the natural beauty of the surrounding area, including hiking, horseback riding, and visits to nearby attractions such as waterfalls and glaciers. Here, enjoy a relaxing getaway and immerse yourself in Iceland's rural charm.
In an impeccable South Iceland hotel location, with striking views of the cliffs, the sea, and the Reynisdrangar rock pillars, Hotel Vík í Mýrdal has provided a warm welcome to visitors for decades. This Vík hotel features contemporary design and nature-inspired style by noted Icelandic architect Guðbjörg Magnúsdóttir. You are also just a minute's walk from Vík's famous black sand beaches!
The location is perfect for nature lovers, as the hotel is between Skaftafell and Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon, two of Iceland's most spectacular natural attractions; a hiker's paradise. Fosshotel Glacier Lagoon offers comfortable and contemporary rooms with high ceilings, large windows with views over the mountains or the ocean. The rooms come with a satellite television, coffee and tea making facilities, refrigerators and more. Guests can enjoy free WiFi, bar, and a relaxing area.
Located in Reykjavik, Hotel Grandi offers a blend of modern comfort and local charm and enjoys a prime location close to many attractions, situated in the vibrant Grandi district. Boasting contemporary design with nods to Iceland's natural beauty and maritime history and a stylish interior with sleek furnishings, accented by locally inspired artwork and decor, Hotel Grandi welcomes guests from days of exploring to modern comforts and relaxation.
*Pricing is based on two persons traveling together, based on availability, subject to change.
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