Iceland Encompassed
10 Days Starting and ending in REYKJAVIK
Visiting: Reykjavík, Vik, Gerði, Höfn, Mývatn, Akureyri, Borgarnes, Snæfellsnes
Tour operator:
Tour code:
ICE2
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Group size:
4 - 12
Physical rating:
Low, Low / Moderate
Age range:
1-99
Special diets catered:
Vegetarians, Please contact Wild Frontiers with any specific dietary requirements
Tour operated in:
EnglishTrip Styles:
Interests:
Activities:
Art Galleries & Museums, Boat/Cruise Excursion, Sightseeing, Walking
Private Available:
Request A Private Tour
From:
$5231
$4969 (USD)
The Big ADVENTURE Sale: -$262
Tour Overview
Also known as the ‘land of fire and ice’, Iceland is famous for its wild landscapes and ancient fishing settlements. Located in the North Atlantic Ocean, Iceland’s setting provides the perfect opportunity to see varied wildlife – a paradise for bird watchers and whale enthusiasts alike.Encompassing all the best that Iceland has to offer, this ten-day adventure follows the ring road around the sparsely populated island. Beginning in the world’s northernmost capital, Reykjavik, we visit some of Iceland’s most famous sites, including the natural wonders of the Golden Circle. From here we journey south to experience picturesque beaches and floating icebergs at the Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon. We will meet the locals and learn about Iceland’s maritime history and culture in the Eastern Fjords, before visiting nature baths and bubbling mud pools at the fascinating volcanic and geothermal areas of the north. During this tour there will be the opportunity to search for the many species of whale that inhabit the waters of Iceland, including Humpback, Minke and Orca. Journeying through snow-capped mountains and rugged landscapes we’ll visit the western coast, learning legends of trolls and the history of charming fishing villages, stretching back to Viking times.With opportunities en route to hike crevasses of Skaftafell glacier, and walk the dramatic coastline between two rural villages, there will be plenty of time to appreciate the remarkable panoramic views Iceland has to offer. This is an unforgettable adventure you don’t want to miss.
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1 : Tour Starts In Reykjavik
Location: Reykjavík
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Klettur or similar
Meals Included: No Meals
The tour starts late this morning at the hotel. There will be a chance to freshen up, before taking a short, guided tour of the city this afternoon. The tour will take in some of Reykjavik’s cultural highlights including the National Museum, providing us with a fascinating insight into Icelandic history, and the Whales of Iceland exhibition with huge life-sized models of the many species of marine wildlife inhabit the shores of Iceland. This evening we’ll head to a local restaurant for dinner where we can enjoy traditional Icelandic cuisine, before heading back to our hotel.
Day 2 : Reykjavik - Golden Circle Tour - Reykjavik
Location: Reykjavík
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Klettur or similar
Meals Included: Breakfast
Today we will set off early to tour Iceland’s South West ‘Golden Circle’ route, where we will see several amazing natural sites. First, we will stop at the UNESCO site of Thingvellir National Park, where we will learn about its fascinating cultural history, including the formation of the National Parliament of Iceland, dating back to 930 AD, and witness its unique geological landscape. Here we can literally straddle two continental plates – North America and Eurasia. After lunch at the Friðheimar tomato farm, we will visit the 3,000 year old Kerid Crater, boasting vivid red volcanic rock and a turquoise water at its centre. We will then drive to Geysir Geothermal Area where we can witness the active geyser, Strokkur, frequently blasting water many metres high. We will also visit Gullfoss waterfall, also known as the Golden Falls, with water cascading into the canyon of the Hvítá river below. Before heading back to our hotel, we will visit Efstidalur dairy farm where we can sample the homemade ice cream.
Day 3 : Reykjavik – Vik
Location: Reykjavík, Vik
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Katla or similar
Meals Included: Breakfast
Today our journey will take us to the South Coast of Iceland, where we will see two of Iceland’s highest and most spectacular waterfalls – Seljalandsfoss and Skogafoss. For those who are up for it, there will be the opportunity to hike across the crevasses of the nearby Sólheimajökull glacier. Alternatively, there will be plenty to explore in the area around the glacier itself. After lunch we will drive to the black sand beach of Reynisfjara, providing an amazing view of rock formations in the icy blue waters, including the Reynisdrangar basalt sea stacks. This southern area of Iceland is considered a paradise for bird watchers and depending on the time of year you can see puffins nesting in the cliffs, amongst many other species. On the opposite side of the lagoon we visit the small promontory Dyrhólaey – the southernmost point in mainland. Later this afternoon we will gain an insight into volcanic activity at the live Lava Show in the town of Vik, our overnight stop.Approximate walking time 2-3 hours with crampons (glacier equipment included).
Day 4 : Vik – Gerði - Hofn
Location: Vik, Gerði, Höfn
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Hofn or similar
Meals Included: Breakfast
This morning we will have the option to visit a cave in the strange and spectacular Mýrdalsjökull glacier, where we will be guided through the unique ice formations. We will journey on to Skaftafell National Park, a famous location for its use on many films and awe-inspiring waterfall views. We will also explore Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon - known as the Crown Jewel of the South – by boat, to see the broken icebergs floating towards Diamond Beach, where icebergs lie scattered across the black sand. After exploring this picturesque landscape, we will drive on to our hotel in Hofn.Approximate walking time 2-3 hours with crampons (cave equipment included).
Day 5 : Gerði – Mývatn
Location: Gerði, Mývatn
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Icelandair Myvatn or similar
Meals Included: Breakfast
Today we will venture to explore the Eastern Fjords of Iceland. Our first stop will be Djúpivogur, to meet a retired fisherman, Jón, and his fascinating stone collection and handcrafted souvenirs. For lunch we will visit the remote restaurant and museum of Randulf's Sea House, in the town of Eskifjordur, where we can enjoy traditional Icelandic food and learning about the town's maritime history. Later this afternoon there will be the opportunity to visit Myvatn Nature Baths – a quieter alternative to Blue Lagoon - to relax in the geothermally-heated pools. We will drive alongside Lake Lagarfljot, en route to our hotel for the evening.
Day 6 : Mývatn - Akureyri
Location: Mývatn, Akureyri
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Icelandair Akureyri
Meals Included: Breakfast
This morning we will explore Lake Myvatn and its stunning surroundings. The vast lake spans has been shaped by surrounding volcanic eruptions, filling it with many islands. Nearby, we will visit the geothermal area of Namaskaro Pass and see its colourful landscape and remarkable geological features including steam vents and bubbling mud pools. This afternoon we will visit the lava field at Dimmuborgir where there are many fascinatingly shaped lava pillars. Finally, we will have the chance to see the beautiful Godafloss waterfall, before heading to our hotel in Akureyri.
Day 7 : Akureyri - Borgarnes
Location: Akureyri, Borgarnes
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Icelandair Hamar or similar
Meals Included: Breakfast
This morning we will have some time to explore Akureyri – the capital of the North, before heading into the Icelandic Cow Farm, Kaffi Kú, where we will have a tour around the farm and have the chance to sample some of the farm produce and local waffles at the family run cafe. Later today - subject to local conditions - we will go whale-watching from the village of Hauganes, searching for the many species of whale that inhabit the waters of Iceland, including Humpback, Minke and Orca. Alternatively, you can spend some time exploring the coastal town of Akureyi further, before heading west to the town of Borgarnes, where we will check into our hotel for the evening.
Day 8 : Borgarnes - Snæfellsnes Peninsula - Borgarnes
Location: Borgarnes, Snæfellsnes, Borgarnes
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Icelandair Hamar or similar
Meals Included: Breakfast
Today we will set off early to visit the western coast of Iceland, Snæfellsnes Peninsula, famous for its ancient fishing settlements and wild landscape. Our first stop is to the beautifully picturesque mountain of Kirkjufell, located at 463m above a charming fishing town, featured in Game of Thrones. Later this morning we will admire the 360-degree view of the surrounding Snæfellsjökull National Park from the Saxhóll Volcanic Crater. Today we will see two contrasting beaches: the volcanic black pebbled beach of Djúpalónssandur, and later the white sand beach of Ytri-Tunga. This afternoon we will walk the dramatic coastline between two small fishing villages – Hellnar and Arnarstapi – and learn the legends of trolls and history of the area, stretching back to Viking times. Finally, we will visit the tiny, romantic Black Church of Búdir, with its impressive mountainous backdrop and historic graveyard. On our way back to Borgarnes we stop for dinner at a local restaurant.Approximate walking distance 2.5km. Approximate walking time 1 hour.
Day 9 : Borgarnes - Reykjavik
Location: Borgarnes, Reykjavík
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Klettur or similar
Meals Included: Breakfast
Today we will head to the district of Borgarfjörður. We will first visit Europe’s most powerful thermal spring Deildartunguhver, used to power many Icelandic nearby homes. On our route today we will also see two famous waterfalls: firstly, a fascinating series of waterfalls known as Hraunfossar – translating to ‘Lava Falls’; and secondly, Barnafoss with water bursting out of a narrow channel through the canyon. Later this afternoon we will visit the historical site of Reykholt, made famous by the Icelandic poet/historian/politician, Snorri Sturluson, in the 13th Century. Here we can learn about Snorri’s contribution to history, see the restored church of Reykholt, and explore the ancient geothermal pools discovered in the area, thought to have been enjoyed by locals since the 12th Century. Finally, will then head back to Reykjavik via mountain Esja overlooking the city. On arrival in Reykjavik we will have some free time for some last-minute shopping, before heading out to a local restaurant for our farewell dinner.
Day 10 : Tour Ends In Reykjavik
Location: Reykjavík
Meals Included: Breakfast
The tour ends this morning in Reykjavik. Anyone travelling on the suggested group flight will transfer to the airport after breakfast.
What's Included
-
MEALS
9 x Breakfasts,
-
TRANSPORT
On this tour we will use minibuses and boats.
-
GROUP SIZE
Maximum: 12
-
CARBON CONTRIBUTIONS
Contributions to carbon offset & tree planting projects for all bookings
-
EXPERT TEAM
The full services of a Wild Frontiers Tour Leader with local guides where appropriate
-
ACCOMMODATION
3 nights x Premium6 nights x Superior
-
ENTRANCE FEES
All entrance fees for sights mentioned in the itinerary
-
FITNESS RATING
Low / Moderate
What's Not Included
We believe in a completely transparent approach to pricing with no hidden extras. As such, please note that the following are not included in the cost of the tour.Visas & Travel Insurance: Visas will always be tour/nationality dependent but travel insurance is mandatoryTips: Always optional but some guidance will be given in the pre-departure information documentsInternational .Flights: Please ask us for an obligation-free quote for flights which originate in the UKAirport .Transfers: We include complimentary transfers if arriving/departing on the suggested group flights.Beverages & any costs of a personal nature: This will include items such as laundry and souvenirs
Key Aspects to Consider
Anyone in a reasonable state of health, with an open mind and a sense of adventure should be perfectly able to cope with this tour. Please note that the hikes mentioned in this itinerary are optional. NB, Please note that quite unlike most Wild Frontiers tours, we have taken the decision not to include any meals other than breakfast in the tour. This is due primarily to the huge variations in the cost of food in Iceland, depending on individual choices and preferences. We will still organise group meals, but with the additional flexibility for people to order as they wish. You should therefore budget separately for 9 lunches and 9 dinners. On average this is likely to cost in the region of approximately £40 - £60 / $50 - $75 pp per day.
Visas
Visas are necessary for many of the destinations we travel to and while we aim to provide you with the most up-to-date information, requirements frequently change and as such for the latest advice we advise that you check with the relevant embassies or contact our recommended visa agency, Travcour www.travcour.com For this tour UK passport holders currently do not require a visa for Iceland. Non-UK passport holders or non-UK residents should contact the relevant embassies for individual requirements. Further details will be sent out to you on booking, however ensuring that correct and valid visas are obtained remains the sole responsibility of the client.
Check out our Q&As
-
Do you require a visa for this holiday?
For this tour UK passport holders currently do not require a visa for Iceland. Non-UK passport holders or non-UK residents should contact the relevant embassies for individual requirements.
-
What policies are in place for Covid-19?
We have a complete Covid-19 hub here: https://www.wildfrontierstravel.com/en_GB/covid-hub
-
Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?
Over 70% of passengers on our group tours are solo adventurers. Unlike many tour operators, we don’t believe in charging solo travellers a premium, so if you are happy to share a room with a fellow traveller of the same sex, you will pay exactly the same as a couple..Occasionally you may even end up with your own room. You can travel as a single traveller on any of our holidays, from our escorte
-
Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?
Yes
-
How long has the tour company been trading?
Since 2002
-
Do I need to be double-vaccinated against Covid-19 to travel with you?
In most cases, yes. Not only are many destinations making double-vaccination a requirement of entry to the country and/or access to restaurants, museums etc., but additionally on all our group tours for the foreseeable future, for everyone’s peace of mind, we are asking that all clients be double vaccinated.
Reviews from Travellers on this Tour
Want a private tour?
Dates & Availability
tourhub Discount Available - Sign In
Friday - Sunday
Sep 13, 2024 - Sep 22, 2024Friday - Sunday
May 16, 2025 - May 25, 2025Friday - Sunday
Sep 12, 2025 - Sep 21, 2025Book with Confidence
-
Free Date Changes
Wild Frontiers allows you to make 2 free date changes, as long as the change is made at least 90 days before the start of the tour.
-
Low Deposit
Wild Frontiers requires a minimum deposit of 200 GBP per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 70 days before departure.
-
Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of wild frontiers charges.
Up to 71 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 51 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.
At 30 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.
-
Wild Frontiers' COVID Promise
You will have the right to transfer without any transfer fee, from any of our trips at ANY time if your trip is not Covid Viable (see below).*
We will not ask you to pay your final balance if your trip is not yet Covid Viable.
If your trip is not Covid Viable, by 30 days prior to departure at the latest, we will cancel your holiday and you can either transfer your funds to another departure or have a refund.**
We will only consider a trip Covid Viable*** if pre-departure it meets all of the following criteria:
There is no national lockdown or ban on foreign travel for the period when your trip is due to depart.
Destinations on the tour must not be on the UK’s Red List. ****
No destinations visited on the tour have in place any significant COVID-19 restrictions for travellers.
Tourist visas (if required) are available.
There is reliable airline access to/from the start/end of the trip.
Following an assessment by both Wild Frontiers and our local partners we are confident that your trip is able to run in both a safe and enjoyable manner.*****
** If you were originally booked to travel before 30 April 2020 and transferred to a later date, or if you have a tailor-made booking, there may be some irrecoverable costs which we cannot refund. Please speak to us and we will be able to advise you if this is the case for your booking.
***Since our HQ is in London, Covid Viable status for our Group Tours will be assessed on UK-based travellers. However we are fully aware that many of our clients live in the US, Canada, Australia, New Zealand and beyond. As such, when we deem a trip to now be Covid Viable, everyone booked will have a chance to review their own personal situation before deciding whether or not to remain booked on the trip. Anyone wishing to, will have the option to transfer without fees to another trip at this time. For tailor made bookings, we may also able to consider additional countries’ travel advice when deciding if a trip is Viable. Please discuss this with us at the time of booking.
**** This relates to bookings from UK clients only. We may operate trips to destinations which the British FCDO advise against travel for Covid reasons. If this is the case, anyone wishing to will have the option to cancel with a refund or transfer to another trip. In some cases we may choose to offer a tour to a Red destination but these will be at both clients’ and Wild Frontiers’ discretion and will be subject to alternative conditions to be discussed on an ad hoc basis.
*****If a destination, that we have deemed to be Covid Viable, subsequently fails any aspect of the criteria for two consecutive weeks, you will have the right under our Covid Promise to transfer without any fees.
Why book with tourhub?
Safe & Secure
Your money is protected in an external trust until you travel.
100% Guaranteed Refunds if your trip is cancelled.
The safest way to make overseas, multi-currency payments.
Guaranteed Best Value
Industry leading discounts, we won't be beaten on price.
No cancellation or amendment fees from tourhub.
(Operator terms may apply)
Expert Knowledge
Reliable & unbiased advice from travel experts.
Direct contact with the tour operator via our messaging service.
Inspiration & advice from a community of 6000+ real travellers, influencers & content creators.
Trusted Service
Official partners & licensed agents of 1000+ tour operators worldwide.
Don't just take our word for it...
"Tourhub: Friendliness, Professionalism & Integrity I would happily give tourhub a 6* review if I could..."