Classic Iceland Adventure

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7 Days From

~~$7399~~

$7066

Classic Iceland Adventure

7 Days Starting and ending in Reykjavík, Iceland

Visiting: Reykjavík, Thingvellir National Park, Heimaey, Eldfell, Seljalandsfoss, Skógafoss, Ingólfshöfði, Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon Boat Tours and Cafe, Heinabergsjokull

Tour operator:

Active Adventures

Guide Type:

Fully Guided

Group size:

5 - 14

Physical rating:

Medium

Age range:

6-80

Special diets catered:

Vegetarians, 3: Step It Up

Tour operated in:

English

From:

$7399

$7066 Exclusive Tourhub Members Discount: -$333

NB: Prices correct on 21-May-2024 but subject to change.

Tour Overview

In just one week, explore the best of Iceland's dramatic landscapes on our Classic Iceland Adventure. As you wind your way through Iceland's Golden Circle and venture further afield to remote glacier lagoons and volcanic landscapes, you'll be left amazed by the many landscapes you'll explore on our 7-day Classic Iceland Adventure. Starting in Reykjavik, you'll meet your fellow adventurers, kiwi guide and expert local guides before exploring the many natural wonders of Southern Iceland. Many will recognize Gullfoss Waterfall and Skógafoss Waterfall, known for their raw power and magnificent rainbows ever-present. As you hike high on the sea cliffs of Ingólfshofði headland, keep your eye out for puffins, Iceland's iconic bird. And as you sea kayak on Heinabergsjokull Lagoon, pass by ancient ice floating along gently as icebergs. Throughout your week-long journey, you'll re-energize in hand-picked accommodations, enjoy hearty Icelandic food and learn about Icelandic traditions, many of which are still present today. If a hiking adventure in Iceland has been waiting on your bucket list, you've come to the right place.

Highlights

View the the beautiful Öxàrarfoss waterfall.
Explore Vestmannaeyjar island and learn the rich volcanic history.
Hike to the top of Iceland’s most famous and spectacular waterfalls; first to Seljalandsfoss
You will get a chance to see Iceland’s iconic and beloved bird puffin.

Itinerary

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Day 1 : Arrive In Reykjavík

Location: Reykjavík

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: Hotel Reykjavík Centrum, Reykjavík

Meals Included: Dinner,

Your trip begins in Reykjavík, the world’s northernmost capital and Iceland’s cultural hub. If you’ve flown in this morning, you’ll be free to make your own way from Keflavík International Airport to the city. Bear in mind you won’t be able to check in to your hotel until 2 pm, so we recommend unwinding after your flight at the famous Blue Lagoon hot pools that are on the way to Reykjavík - remember to keep your swimwear handy! After dropping your bags at the hotel you’ll have some free time to take in the vibrant streets - grab some last-minute gear at the many outdoor clothing stores or explore the harbor. Later, we’ll all meet at the hotel bar for a trip briefing and a welcome drink, where you’ll get to know your fellow travelers and guides before having a delicious meal in a local restaurant. You might find your first evening a little strange, to be strolling around in daylight!

Day 2 : Explore Þingvellir National Park

Location: Thingvellir National Park

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: Flúðir Hótel, Flúðir

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner,

Today the adventure really begins, as we head northeast to Þingvellir National Park, home to Iceland’s first National Assembly. We’ll stretch our legs at our first waterfall called Öxàrarfoss (‘foss’ is Icelandic for waterfall). As strange as it may sound, this is actually a human-made waterfall, as the water was diverted, back in the 9th Century, to provide members and visitors of the Icelandic parliament ‘Althingi’ with water. There are further fascinating folklores about this region that you’ll soon discover! After enjoying a traditional Icelandic meat soup for lunch we’ll continue towards the highlands, with stops to learn about Iceland’s Laugarvatan cave people, and view the original Geysir Nature Reserve and the Gullfoss waterfall.Hiking:We'll explore the Nature Reserve, so do as much or as little as you like.

Day 3:Visit The Vestmannaeyjar Islands

Location: Heimaey, Eldfell

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: Hótel Vestmannaeyjar, Vestmannaeyjar

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner,

This morning we’ll journey south down the coast to board a ferry. Our scenic crossing takes us to the bustling fishing port of Haeimaey, the only inhabited island in the Vestmannaeyjar archipelago. This tiny island hosts a recent, rich volcanic history that we’ll learn about at the world-class Eldheimar Exhibition. After fueling up the body we’ll experience the lava fields with a volcanic hike to the Eldfell peak. At the top, you’ll be rewarded with views across to the mainland and a further appreciation for the 1973 eruption. Hiking:Eldfell Peak hike: 2 kilometers (1.2 miles), 2-3 hours, elevation +/- 200 meters (656 feet)Hiking:Optional hike 1: 1.5 kilometers (0.9 miles), 0.5-1 hour, elevation +/- 200 meters (656 feet)

Day 4 : Hike And Explore Seljalandsfoss & Skógafoss Waterfalls

Location: Seljalandsfoss, Skógafoss

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: Fosshótel Glacier Lagoon, Öraefi

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner,

After returning to the mainland we’ll take a hike to the top of Iceland’s most famous and spectacular waterfalls; first to Seljalandsfoss (where we can also walk behind the falls) and then to Skógafoss. After lunch we’ll hunt for stone trolls along the wild and beautiful South Coast - these trolls occupy an immense portion of Icelandic folklore, described as big, stupid and greedy, but sometimes kind and wise... Our journey continues alongside the soaring sea cliffs and moss-covered lava fields, where we’ll be able to see the infamous E15 ‘Eyjafjallajökull’ Volcano, Vatnajökull ice cap and its outlet glaciers. Tonight, we’ll relax in the wonderfully appointed Fosshótel, with impressive views down towards the coast.Hiking:Seljalandsfoss hike: 0.5 kilometers (0.3 miles), 0.5-1 hour, elevation +/- 20 meters (65 feet)Hiking:Skógafoss hike: 5 kilometers (3 miles), 1-2 hours, elevation +/- 90 meters (300 feet)

Day 5 : Hike The Ingólfshöfði Headland, Spotting ‘Lundi‘

Location: Ingólfshöfði

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: Fosshótel Glacier Lagoon, Öraefi

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner,

Pack your binoculars this morning as we’re looking for 'Lundi', also known as puffin, Iceland’s iconic and beloved bird. As we hike the high sea cliffs of the Ingólfshöfði headland we’ll also catch glimpses of guillemots and skuas. Please note, in September the puffins will have headed back out to sea. However, we will still enjoy the stunning hike. After our hike and a bite to eat, we’ll head off to view yet another waterfall, known as Svartifoss, where nearby there are views across Europe’s largest outlet glacier, Skeiðarárjökull. You can decide to hike on the glacier with specialist guides for extra fees.

Afterward, we’ll regroup and head back to the Fosshótel, for another relaxing evening.Hiking:Sea cliffs hike: 3 kilometers (1.9 miles), 2.5-3 hours, elevation +/- 200 meters (656 feet)Hiking:Svartifoss hike: 5.5 kilometers (3.4 miles), 1-2 hours, elevation +/- 100 meters (324 feet)Notes:Optional Ice hike on Svínafellsjökull Glacier (extra fee applies): An alternative option to the afternoon's waterfall hike is to strap on crampons, pick up an ice axe and hike on the Svínafellsjökull glacier! Led by specialist glacier guides you’ll explore amazing ice formations checking out the crevasses, seracs, tunnels, and pools of glacial meltwater - no previous experience is required! The constant movement of the glacier means every day is different, so your guides will cut steps in the ice and make sure you make the most of the conditions. The ice hike is popular, so this option must be selected at the time of booking.

Day 6 : Visit Jökulsárlón Lagoon, Sea Kayak Heinabergsjökull Lagoon

Location: Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon Boat Tours and Cafe, Heinabergsjokull, Reykjavík

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: Hotel Reykjavik Centrum, Reykjavik

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner,

Jökulsárlón Lagoon is a photographer’s dream and a spot where you may see seals playing amongst the icebergs. After hiking the entire length of Iceland’s shortest river (blink and you’ll miss it), we’ll end up on the beach surrounded by stranded icebergs. After lunch, it’s time to swap our hiking boots for a kayak paddle and venture out on the Heinabergsjökull Lagoon. Our professional kayak guides will keep you warm and dry, supplying you with all the necessary gear. We’ll explore amongst the icebergs and if conditions permit, get up close to the terminal face!

After, a short drive takes us to the domestic airfield at Höfn for a domestic flight to Reykjavik where we'll enjoy one last farewell dinner together.Hiking: Iceland's shortest river, around 2-3 hoursKayaking:8 kilometers (5 miles), 2-3 hours

Day 7 : Return Home

Location: Reykjavík

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner,

This morning is yours to enjoy. Wander the city, indulge in a sleep-in, or pack in some last-minute souvenir shopping. If you’re staying on in Iceland be sure to ask us for advice about where to explore next!

What's Included

Accommodation

Accommodation for the entire period you are with us.
Meals

All your meals except where indicated in the itinerary. In some locations, where there are a wide variety of restaurants, we’ve found people prefer to check out the options on their own. Alcohol is not included, although we do spring a few drinks here and there!
Transport

All ground transportation and cable cars from trip start to end.
Guide

All guiding services. We have an experienced trip leader with every trip and to provide extra local knowledge. You'll get the highest level of service from our guides and from our experienced team behind the scenes. We’re always here for you and we always go the extra mile!
7:1 guest-to-guide ratio
Exemplary pre-trip customer care service available to answer questions
Travel Wallet: a resource for everything you need to know about your trip in one secure space!
Unlimited snacks
All necessary equipment (well-maintained and safe) for activities
Specially curated tour ‘Wow’ moments throughout your trip

What's Not Included

Additional Services

Gratuities for your guides at the end of your fabulous trip
Airport Transfers at Destination

Airport transfers to start/end point not included.
Insurance

Travel insurance
International Travel

International/Domestic Flights not included.
Optional

Optional additional activities not included.
Alcoholic beverages
Additional equipment available to rent as per your itinerary

Trip Notes

Click here to read the trip notes

Check out our Q&As

Are flights included in this tour?

International/Domestic Flights are not included.
What is the maximum group size?

The max group size is 14 peoples.
What is the fitness level required to do this tour?

Activity Level 3: Step It Up, I love an active vacation. Engaging in a challenging activity with a difficult goal, such as reaching a summit, is exactly what I need to unwind in the evenings. Hiking: Typically, 3-6 hours per day on well-formed backcountry trails. Expect some significant gradient inclines and declines. Altitude: Your trip may include some moderate altitude areas, though these don't form the focus of the trip and are generally manageable. Biking: 1-3 hours on well-formed paths or roads where you can expect some hills with moderate climbs and descents. Kayaking: 1-3 hours, entry-level sea kayaking with specialist guides and stable boats. Other activities (i.e. caving): Always optional and very little exertion required. A highlight for many!
What is the tipping policy?

Tipping is not expected in Europe however you might want to tip a little extra if you feel someone gave really fantastic service, but it's not really necessary. Many of our people also choose to tip their Active Adventures Europe trip leaders and local guides and we recommend USD$20 per day, per guest, per Trip Leader/guide.
Are airport transfers included in this tour?

Airport transfers to start/end point not included.

Is there any free time to explore places during the tour?

As detailed in itinerary.
Are the local guides on the tour English speaking?

Yes, Local English speaking guide on this tour.
What happens if I need to change my holiday date once I’ve booked?

You are covered by our Active Adventures Assurance policy.
How long has the tour company been trading?

Since 1996
Who will be my travelling companions on the tour?

Our trips attract a wide range of people from all different backgrounds, countries and ages, which makes our small group adventures all the more interesting and fun. All our people tend to enjoy active lifestyles, great food, good company and new experiences. If this sounds like you, then you’ll be in good company
What documents will I receive before I travel?

We send online booking information via our club page you’ll gain access to your trip notes, destination information, a detailed gear list and all the information you need for your trip. There are a few things to fill in – medical and dietary information, extra accommodation requests, gear hire requests etc. – to ensure you are well prepared for your adventure vacation.
What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?

Travellers Against Plastic
Can I join the tour once it has departed?

No
Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?

Yes,
What policies are in place for Covid-19?

When it comes to the safety of our guests, it has always been our number one priority. We’ve introduced strict protocols to adhere to current Covid safety guidelines that are relative to the destination, country and location of your adventure – these are dependent on the current rules and restrictions that are in place at the time of your trip.
Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?

Health and safety are just as important as the amazing places in the most stunning parts of the world we travel. Another focus of ours is having a good place to rest and rejuvenate at the end of a busy day, and to make sure we are fully charged for the next day’s activities, so you’ll always find yourself in a clean, comfortable room.
Am I contributing to any charity by booking the tour?

No

Reviews from travellers on this tour

Carol

Great Variety, Perfect Selections

04-May-2023

We had a great time in southern Iceland with beautiful and varied experiences and super narrative from our guides on all aspects Iceland.

Debbie

Thank you, Active Adventures!

25-Jun-2022

This was my second trip with Active Adventures and it was everything I had hoped for and more! Every waterfall was different, every hike unique, and the puffin colony and glacial lake kayaking were super special. Thanks to our guides, we learned so much about Iceland!

Amy

Iceland Trip of a Lifetime

18-Jun-2022

Our family of four just got home from our adventure trip to Iceland. It certainly lived up to the hype! The island is like no other place on earth. The beauty is difficult to put in to words. In addition, there are so many different landscapes on one small island. Our tour guide, Solvi, was top notch. He was fun and so knowledgeable about EVERYTHING. He even told us Icelandic epic stories while we were driving. His love of his country was so obvious and he seemed to have the same sense of awe as we did at each site we visited, even though he had been there many times before. The volcanoes, the falls, the national parks, the glaciers, there is just so much to see. The food was also delicious and we felt like we were getting to eat what the locals would eat. We had our kids ages 17 and 21 and they loved every minute of it too. That says it all right there! I highly recommend this trip and 100% you should add on the glacier hike. It was the highlight for all of us.

Jan

Lundi Trip

15-Sep-2022

What a way to experience Iceland. The trip left me already planning a return trip to this amazing country. Sölvi was a great guide, he not only kept us all moving and on time but he gave us so much history about his country.

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Jun 02, 2024 - Jun 08, 2024

~~$7399~~ $7066