Iceland Winter Adventure

Today we arrive in the capital city of Reykjavik. Arrive any time, check into your hotel, and explore on your own. There's so much to do and see in this beautiful city. 

Check with Erica on flights so you can take advantage of the private group airport transfer (versus the public bus transfer).

*Both options are included in the price. 

Activity: Today, we hunt for Northern Lights!

Day 1

Today we embark on an amazing journey Around Iceland - an adventure you won't forget!

We start with the Golden Circle - the most famous route in Iceland.

DESTINATION #1

The adventure begins with Thingvellir National Park, a stunningly beautiful and historically significant site located in the south-west of Iceland.

North American and Eurasian tectonic plates meet here, creating a unique geological environment. The two plates are constantly pushing against each other, creating a No Man's Land and resulting in frequent seismic activity and volcanic eruptions. Thingvellir is also home to some of the world's most active geysers and hot springs, which are a result of the heat generated by the friction between the two plates. The combination of these two plates has made Iceland one of the most geologically active places on Earth.

Viking history in Thingvellir National Park is a fascinating topic to explore. Located in Iceland, Thingvellir National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is home to some of the most important sites in Viking history. The park was established in 1930 and is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Iceland. Thingvellir is a great place to explore Viking history. Visitors can explore the archaeological sites, take in the natural beauty of the park, and learn more about the history of the Icelandic people. The park is also a great place to take in the beauty of Iceland, with its stunning landscapes and unique wildlife.

DESTINATION #2

After visiting the park, we head to the Haukadalur Geothermal Area, where we will find Hot Spring Strokkur, which erupts every five to ten minutes creating amazing photo opportunities and the famous Great Geysir - the geyser that has named all geysers in the world, however has been dormant since the early 2000s.

Geysers in Iceland are created by the intense volcanic activity beneath the surface of the Earth. The heat from the magma below the surface causes water to become superheated and pressurized. When the pressure becomes too great, the water is forced up through the Earth's surface and erupts in a geyser. The eruption is usually accompanied by steam, boiling water, and sometimes mud and rocks. The geyser's eruption can last anywhere from a few seconds to several minutes, depending on the size and strength of the eruption.

DESTINATION #3

To end our Golden Circle in the most magnificent way, we will go to Gullfoss. Gullfoss is one of the most iconic and beautiful waterfalls in Iceland. Located in the Hvítá river canyon in southwest Iceland, Gullfoss is a spectacular double waterfall that cascades down into a deep canyon. The waterfall is 32 meters (105 feet) high and has a width of about 20 meters (65 feet).

The first thing that strikes visitors to Gullfoss is its sheer power. The waterfall is fed by the Langjökull glacier, and the resulting volume of water is immense. Visitors can take in the stunning views of the waterfall from the viewing platform at the top of the canyon, or take a short walk down to the bottom of the canyon for a closer look. There are also several trails in the area, allowing visitors to explore the surrounding area and take in the beautiful scenery. 

ACTIVITY OF THE DAY #1

If the weather allows we should be able to see northern lights! The hotel we will be staying at is located far away from light pollution, which increases the chances of seeing them. If we don't see them tonight, we still have 5 days left to catch them!

We will spend our night in a hotel nearby.

Today, we hike a glacier!

Day 2:

On this day you will be heading to the South of Iceland - home to glaciers.

DESTINATION #4

Today we will start the day with Seljalandsfoss - a stunningly beautiful waterfall located in the south of Iceland. It is one of the most popular tourist attractions in the country, and it is easy to see why. Seljalandsfoss is unique in that it is possible to walk behind the waterfall, which creates a truly magical experience.The waterfall is located in the Seljalands River, which is a tributary of the mighty glacial river, the Markarfljot. Seljalandsfoss is about 60 meters (197 feet) high and is part of the Seljalandsfoss-Gljufrabui area, which is a protected nature reserve. The area has been protected since 1987 and is home to a variety of flora and fauna.

Seljalandsfoss is a must-see for anyone visiting Iceland. Its breathtaking beauty and unique features make it one of the most popular tourist attractions in the country. Whether visitors are looking for a peaceful escape or an adventure, Seljalandsfoss is sure to provide an unforgettable experience.

DESTINATION #5

Moving on more east, we will find yet another waterfall - Skógafoss. It is a powerful waterfall, with a width of 25 metres and a height of 60 metres. It is said to be the largest waterfall in the country and is one of the most visited tourist attractions in Iceland.

Skógafoss is also one of the most popular waterfalls in Iceland and is a must-see for any traveler. The area around the waterfall is very photogenic, with lush green fields and a stunning view of the nearby mountains. There is a well-marked hiking trail that leads to the top of the waterfall, where visitors can get a bird’s eye view of the area. In addition to its natural beauty, Skógafoss also has a rich history. The area has been inhabited since the 9th century, and the waterfall is said to have been a sacred site for the Vikings. The waterfall is also said to be the hiding place of a chest filled with gold and other treasures.

DESTINATION #6

We will drive towards the glaciers. Glaciers are an important part of Iceland's landscape, covering 11% of the country. They are also one of the most visited attractions in Iceland, with tourists coming from all over the world to experience the beauty of these massive ice formations. Iceland is home to many glaciers, with the largest being Vatnajökull, which covers 8% of the country. This glacier is the largest in Europe and is home to many of Iceland's most popular attractions, such as the Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon and the Svínafellsjökull glacier.

Glaciers form when snow accumulates over time and compresses into large masses of ice. This process can take thousands of years, and the glaciers in Iceland are some of the oldest in the world. As the glaciers move, they carve out deep valleys and create stunning landscapes. Glaciers are also important for Iceland's environment. They provide a source of fresh water for the country, and their presence helps to regulate the climate. Glaciers also act as a buffer against the effects of global warming, as they absorb some of the heat from the sun.

Iceland's glaciers are an important part of the country's landscape, and they are an important part of its culture and history. They are a source of adventure, research, and inspiration, and they are a reminder of the beauty of nature. 

ACTIVITY OF THE DAY #2

Get ready to experience something a few have experienced - a Glacier Hike on Sólheimajökull! We will meet a certified glacier guide who will give us all glacier equipment, provide all safety equipment and take us to the top of a glacier!

Before going a glacier hike in Iceland, it is important to be prepared. The weather can be unpredictable, so it is important to dress appropriately for the conditions. Layering is key, as temperatures can vary greatly depending on the time of day and the location of the glacier. It is also important to wear sturdy footwear with good grip, as the terrain can be slippery and uneven. Safety is also a key factor when glacier hiking, as it is home to crevasses, avalanches, and falling ice. However our glacier guide will provide valuable insight into the terrain and help ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.

(Please note that a glacier hike might happen on Day 3 on Vatnajökull glacier, depending on the availability of the glacier guide).

DESTINATION #7 - Next we are going to the famous Reynisfjara. Reynisfjara is a black sand beach located along the southern coast of Iceland. It is the most popular beach in the country, and has been featured in several films and television shows. The black sand beach in Reynisfjara is black because of the volcanic activity in the area. The black sand is created by lava that has cooled and hardened. The beach is also known for its dramatic basalt columns, which were formed by the erosion of the nearby Reynisfjall mountain.

The basalt columns were also formed by a volcanic eruption that took place over a million years ago. The molten lava cooled and contracted, forming vertical cracks in the rock. The lava then continued to cool and contract, creating polygonal columns. The columns have been eroded over time by the sea, creating the unique and beautiful landscape that is seen today.

This beautiful place is also home to a wide variety of wildlife, including seabirds, seals, and even the occasional whale. With its stunning scenery and wide variety of activities, Reynisfjara is an unforgettable destination.

DESTINATION #8

The final stop of the day will be Vík í Mýrdal - small village located on the south coast of Iceland. It is the southernmost village in Iceland and is renowned for its black sand beaches and dramatic coastal cliffs. The village is home to a few hundred people and is a popular stop for tourists as it is located in one of the most volcanic areas in Iceland - only 26 km away from Katla Volcano - an active volcano which has been active since the early 9th century and has had several major eruptions throughout its history. The most recent major eruption occurred in 1918, when the volcano erupted for three weeks, sending ash and lava up to 10 km (6 miles) into the air.

In the event of a volcanic eruption in the area, all people are asked to go to Vík's church, which is located on the top of the hill. Before leaving their homes, everyone is asked to fill out a form and indicate on a window facing the street how many people live in the house and how many have already evacuated. This will help the police ensure that everyone is out of the houses.

We will spend our night in Vík.

Today, we go into an ice cave!

Day 3:

Today we will leave our hotel at 8am and start our adventure to the east of Iceland - surrounded by majestic glaciers, dramatic mountains and unforgettable views.

DESTINATION #9

Our first stop is Skaftafell for a photo stop of the largest glacier in Europe - Vatnajökull, by the remains of the bridge that got swept away by a glacial flood in 1996.

Skeiðará Bridge s one of the most iconic landmarks in the country, as it is a reminder of the country's past, and it is a symbol of the strength and resilience of the Icelandic people. The bridge was built in the early 20th century and spans the Skeiðará River, connecting the eastern and western sides of the river.

DESTINATION #10

The next stop of the journey is the astonishing Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon, where you can see large icebergs drift calmly towards the ocean.

Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon is a glacial lake located in southeastern Iceland. It is the deepest lake in Iceland and one of the largest in Europe. The lagoon is fed by the Breiðamerkurjökull glacier, part of the Vatnajökull glacier, Europe’s largest glacier. The lagoon is a popular tourist attraction, with visitors coming to see the floating icebergs, seals, and the spectacular views of the surrounding mountains.

Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon was formed in the early 1920s, when the Breiðamerkurjökull glacier began to retreat. The glacier has retreated more than 3 kilometers since then, creating the lagoon and its surrounding wetlands. The lagoon is now over 1 kilometer wide and 250 meters deep. The lagoon is also a popular destination for photographers and filmmakers, who come to capture the stunning beauty of the lagoon and its surrounding landscape. The lagoon has featured in many films, including James Bond’s Die Another Day, Lara Croft: Tomb Raider, and Batman Begins.

DESTINATION #11

2 minutes away from Jökulsárlón, we will find a stunningly beautiful Diamond Beach, where large chunks of glittering blue ice scatter across the black sand beach. The ice is a result of the nearby Breiðamerkurjökull glacier, which is part of the larger Vatnajökull glacier.

The beach is a popular destination for tourists and photographers alike, as the ice chunks provide a unique and beautiful backdrop for photos. The beach is also home to a variety of wildlife, including seals, seabirds, and even reindeer.

ACTIVITY OF THE DAY #3

Get ready to visit Crystal Blue Ice Cave - one of the largest and most popular ice caves in Iceland! The ice cave is so far away that we cannot reach it by foot or car. So, we will take a Super Jeep to get to the ice cave with a glacier guide who will ensure our safety.

Crystal Blue Ice Cave in Iceland is an awe-inspiring natural wonder that has captivated visitors from all over the world and is a must-see for anyone visiting Iceland. Located in the Vatnajökull National Park, the cave is formed by the melting of a glacier and is filled with a stunning blue ice. The cave is illuminated by the sunlight that streams in from the entrance, creating a magical atmosphere.

The cave is a popular destination for photographers, as the ice formations and the blue ice make for some stunning photos. The tour will take visitors through the chamber, as well as to other areas of the cave (please note that an ice cave is always changing).

We will spend our night in a hotel nearby.

Today, we relax in hot springs!

Day 4:

We will spend our fourth day in the East Fjords of Iceland, relax in hot springs, enjoy the beautiful Icelandic life, and make amazing memories! Here we can also find amazing and rare wildlife, fjords and high mountain ridges.

DESTINATION #12

Icelandic history makes its appearance in the peaceful fishing villages you pass along the way, as fishing has always been a big part of Icelandic culture. If we have time we will pass by some of these villages.

DESTINATION #13

You have probably noticed that Iceland doesn't have a lot of trees, therefore we will go to Hallormsstaðaskógur forest - the largest forest in Iceland.

Iceland is located in the North Atlantic Ocean, far from the mainland of Europe and North America. This means that the climate is cold and windy, and the soil is rocky and not very fertile. This makes it difficult for trees to survive and grow in Iceland. Additionally, the cold temperatures mean that the growing season is very short, and the trees cannot get enough sunlight to photosynthesize.

However 40% of Iceland was covered with trees thousands of years ago, however Vikings used wood for fuel and building materials, leading to deforestation. This deforestation was further exacerbated by the introduction of sheep and other livestock, which ate the trees and shrubs.

DESTINATION #14

Just by the forest, we will pass by Lake Lagarfljót, which is the third largest lake in the country and is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Iceland.

The lake is believed to be the home of a mythical creature known as the Lagarfljótsormur, or Lagarfljóts Worm. According to legend, the creature is a giant serpent that lives in the depths of the lake. Sightings of the creature have been reported since the 13th century, and it is said to be the cause of mysterious occurrences in the area.

DESTINATION #15

Let's make our adventure even more exciting!

We will travel a bit more north, where we will find luxurious hot springs!

VÖK Baths is a luxury spa and a unique geothermal area located in the east of Iceland. The area is known for its natural hot springs, which are believed to have healing properties. The area is also home to a variety of wildlife, including geese, ducks, and swans, and is a popular spot for bird-watching. The area is also popular among tourists for its stunning views of the surrounding landscape and its unique geothermal activity.

We will spend our night in a hotel nearby.

Today, we visit the capital of the North!

Day 5:

We will spend our 5th day exploring the wildest parts of Iceland.

DESTINATION #16

The first stop is Lake Mývatn and it’s beautiful surroundings.

Lake Mývatn is a beautiful lake located in northern Iceland. It is a popular tourist destination due to its stunning natural beauty and unique geological features. The lake is surrounded by a variety of volcanic formations, lava fields, and other geological features, making it a great spot for sightseeing and photography. The lake is also home to a variety of bird species, making it a great spot for birdwatching. The lake is also known for its abundance of natural hot springs, making it a popular spot for swimming and soaking.

DESTINATION #17

A short drive away, we will find Námaskarð Pass, a high temperature geothermal area where the earth boils and gurgles. Námaskarð pass is a mountain pass located in the Highlands of Iceland. It is situated between the glaciers of Hofsjökull and Vatnajökull and is a popular tourist destination due to the orange and red landscapes in the area. The whole land is orange due to the presence of sulfur in the area, which gives the landscape its unique color. During our hike we will see colorful hills, steaming hot springs, bubbling mud pools, and fumaroles.

DESTINATION #18

Dimmuborgir is our next stop where we will find a field of peculiar shaped lava pillars that rise from the earth and their formations may remind you of trolls, elves and other mythical creatures. 

Dimmuborgir is a volcanic area located in the north of Iceland. It is a fascinating landscape of lava fields and caves, formed by volcanic eruptions over 2,000 years ago. It is a popular tourist destination and is known for its unique rock formations, including the Hall of the Mountain King, an area of large basalt columns. The area is also home to a wide variety of wildlife, including Arctic foxes, reindeer, and ptarmigans. Dimmuborgir is a great place to explore and take in the unique beauty of the Icelandic landscape.

DESTINATION #19

We will now go to explore Goðafoss - a breathtaking waterfall located in the north of Iceland. It is one of the most spectacular waterfalls in the country and is a popular tourist destination. The name Goðafoss translates to “waterfall of the gods” and it is believed to have been named after the conversion to Christianity in Iceland in the year 1000. The waterfall is approximately 12 meters (40 feet) high and 30 meters (100 feet) wide, making it one of the largest waterfalls in the country, which is also known for its unique shape.

The waterfall was formed by a massive glacial flood that occurred in the year 934. The flood was caused by a volcanic eruption in the region and the resulting glacial flood carved out the horseshoe shape of the waterfall.

ACTIVITY OF THE DAY #5

Akureyri is our next stop - the Capital of the North. You will have the whole evening to go explore the beautiful city. It is the second largest urban area in the country, and is known for its stunning natural beauty and vibrant culture. The town is surrounded by mountains, glaciers, and fjords, making it a popular destination for outdoor activities such as hiking, skiing, and snowmobiling. Akureyri also has a vibrant nightlife, with a wide variety of restaurants, bars, and clubs. The town is home to a number of museums, galleries, and other cultural attractions, making it a great place to explore and learn about Icelandic culture.

Remember to look for the beautiful Northern Lights at night if skies are clear before you turn in to your accommodation.

We will spend our night in Akureyri.

Today, we go whale watching!

Day 6: 

ACTIVITY OF THE DAY #6

In the morning after breakfast, we will pack our bags and go straight to a small village called Hauganes, where we will get on a boat and go into the North Atlantic Ocean to see Humpback Whales and more wonderful creatures swimming in the ocean.

We offer warm extra clothing, but we still recommend that passengers bring their own warm and waterproof clothes.

DESTINATION #20

Today we have a long way back to Reykjavík, passing by some beautiful places. If we have time, we will make some extra stops to see the places, so speak the guide and let the guide know if there is a place you would like to stop on the way. If we have time, we will definitely make a stop.

We'll arrive back in Reykjavík at around 8pm (depending on weather and road conditions).

Today we say goodbye to Iceland. Enjoy your last few hours shopping, dining, or doing whatever you need to do for your tour of Iceland to feel complete.

Or, if you have decided to stay for the optional extension trip, our bonus adventures begin. Stay tuned for more details.

COST: $2,797 per person for double occupancy.

DEPOSIT: A $500 deposit secures your spot.

CANCELLATION POLICY:

* Deposit is 50% refundable until final payment is made.

FINAL PAYMENT: Final Payment is due July 8th.

* Cancellations made after July 8th are entirely non-refundable.

TRAVEL INSURANCE:

It is mandatory for all of our travelers to have Emergency Medical insurance that covers both emergency evacuation and repatriation to the sum of $200,000 USD. We also strongly recommend purchasing a comprehensive plan that covers cancellation/interruption insurance as well. Ask me for more information.

• Warm clothes (first layer)
• Waterproof outdoor clothing (second layer)
• Hiking boots (available for rent)
• Swimsuit and a towel
• A great attitude and sense of adventure

*Weather in Iceland is very unpredictable. For tours during winter: warm clothing as the first layer, waterproof jacket with a hoodie, hiking boots with ankle protection and hard sole, a hat and gloves are ideal. The weather changes quickly and often in Iceland. Icelanders often say, “If you don’t like the weather, just wait 5 minutes”. 

*Jeans are not recommended.

Before you book your flight, check with me. We want to make sure you arrive and depart on the right day, and I may be able to negotiate a group rate for us. 

Surprisingly, Icelandic winters are usually warmer than those in Canada, Russia, or even New York. In fact, compared to many places in the United States and Canada, November weather in Iceland really isn’t all that bad. The temperatures in Iceland in November range from around 40°F to 38°F. 

In comparison to places like Minnesota or the Rocky Mountains, Iceland in November is quite pleasant, considering it's an island sitting in the middle of the Arctic! Of course, Iceland in winter can get snowstorms like anywhere else, but the country very rarely sees sub-zero temperatures.

However, storms with extreme winds and rain or snowfall are frequent, and weather changes can be sudden. This is why its important to pack appropriately and be flexible with the schedule.

The tour operator I'm working with assures me we will be staying in comfortable, three-star, tourist class hotels, with private bathrooms. 

The order or availability of attractions may change due to road or weather conditions, and we may have to adjust our timing to the short daylight of winter days.

The Northern Lights are a natural random phenomenon and cannot be guaranteed. Hotels are in prime locations to maximize the chances of seeing them.

Ice caves are a dynamic, ever-changing natural phenomenon only accessible during wintertime when temperatures drop below zero. Each year new unique caves are formed in different areas of the glacier. We visit a naturally formed ice cave during this tour. The photos on our website and social media are from the recent winter season, but the ice cave may have changed in appearance due to the dynamic nature of these formations.

As for the glacier hike, the tour is considered to be safe for anyone in good physical condition. If you are fit enough to walk for about an hour on an uneven surface, you can do a glacier hike. Remember that all safety equipment is provided, and you will be hiking with a professional and certified glacier guide.

It rains a lot in Iceland, but they don't let the rain stop them. Simply choose your clothing wisely, which is why it is recommended that you wear waterproof clothing as the second layer. Of course, safety is the #1 priority. In case of extreme weather conditions, tours may be cancelled and all attempts will be made to reschedule. 

That's what I'm here for! Call 407-383-4196 or email [email protected] with all your questions, and let's get you one step closer to you Iceland!