Iceland Discovery
Experience Overview
Travel to Iceland and delve into the ancient tales of Vikings and volcanoes on this eight-day adventure to its heartlands. Marvel at geothermal hot springs, witness the steamy eruptions of a giant geyser, touch the tongue of Europe's biggest glacier at Vatnajokull and cruise the Jokulsarlon Glacial Lagoon, see lava that's still warm after decades and witness the giant Skogafoss and Detifoss waterfalls in all their splendour. Travel through Iceland's isolated corners and the land of the famous Blue Lagoon – so mysterious and ethereal that they have inspired artists, poets and musicians for centuries. Plus, with a local leader on hand to answer any questions and get you from place to place, you’ll be cruising around this icy isle in no time.
Highlights
- There's a lot more to Iceland than ice (and Bjork). Ford the fjords, glaciers, volcanoes and black sand beaches, and consider adding on a visit to the renowned Blue Lagoon for a soak in the geothermal springs.
- Spend the evening at the quirky farm town of Modrudalur – an isolated settlement and the highest inhabited place in Iceland and enjoy a home-cooked dinner at our guesthouse at Snaefellsnes.
- Walk to the mottled blue, grey and black tongue of Vatnajokull glacier – an ice cap so large it covers eight per cent of the country – and discover the incredible Skogafoss Waterfall.
- Glide past blue-white icebergs on an included boat tour of Jokulsarlon glacier lagoon and soak up the silence of the surrounding grey sand desert..
- Experience the unearthly scenery at Namaskard, where steam rises from the sulphuric terrain and take a walk around the lava stacks and caves of Dimmuborgir.
Trip Details
Product Code: 1647
Tour Type: Small Group
Accommodation: Moderate
Transport: Private minibus with free Wi-Fi
Guide Language: English
Tour Operator:
Intrepid Travel
Supplier Code: BMSI
Starts: Reykjavik, Iceland
Finishes: Reykjavik, Iceland
Duration: 8 days
Departures: Guaranteed
Physical Rating:
Light
Includes
Meals: Breakfasts (7), Dinner (1)Accommodation: Hotel (4 nights),Guest house & Farm stay with shared facilities (3 nights)
Price
Price per person: (Double Occupancy) CAD $4,765 ($596 /day)
Itinerary
Hallo! Welcome to Reykjavik, which lies just below the Arctic Circle. The city sees around four hours of sunlight a day in winter and 22 hours or more in summer. Surrounded by volcanic peaks and crystalline ocean and boasting a vibrant arts and nightlife scene, Reykjavik's contrasts are utterly beguiling. Your adventure kicks off with a welcome meeting at 6 pm at your accommodation. If you arrive early, why not head to the National Museum, which depicts the history of Iceland from the ninth century – when the first Vikings from mainland Scandinavia arrived and settled – to the present day. Or perhaps join locals who gossip and chatter in the Laugardalslaug Geothermal Pool.
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
Make an early start to beat the crowds on the Golden Circle route. Head to Thingvellir National Park, home to the Parliament Plains and location of Iceland’s first parliament. Thingvellir also contains the Silfra fissure, where the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates are slowly pulling apart. The resulting gap is partly filled with fresh water and is clearly visible. From here head to the Geysir geothermal area, checking out Strokkur and watching as the geyser swells with blue water before erupting and shooting some 20-30 metres in the air. Be spellbound by the immense beauty and sheer power of the Gullfoss (Golden) double waterfall on the Hvita River, before proceeding to a remote farm in the Hvolsvollur region, our overnight stop for the night.
Included Activities:
- Golden Circle - Strokkur Geysir
- Golden Circle - Gullfoss Waterfall
- Golden Circle - Thingvellir National Park
Optional Activities:
- Fludir - Secret Lagoon (3600 ISK)
- Hvolsvollur - Lava Center (6900 ISK)
Accommodation:
- Guesthouse (Number of Nights: 1)
Begin the day with a visit to breathtaking Seljalandsfoss waterfall, followed by Skogafoss waterfall. At 25-metres wide with a 60-metre drop, this waterfall roars. You can feel its power up close with a strenuous walk up a windy set of stairs up to a stunning viewpoint. The black sands and bizarre, rectangular rock formations of Reynisfjara are up next. The last stop of the day is the famous Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon. Make sure you head down to Diamond Beach, where some of the icebergs are washed onto the black sand. Your leader can help you book an optional walk on the mottled blue, grey and black face of one of the tongues of Europe's largest glaciers, the epic ice cap of Vatnajokull. From Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon it is not far to our overnight stay, located on another lagoon that is sheltered by a black sandbar.
Included Activities:
- Skogafoss - Waterfall Visit
- South Coast - Rocks of Reynisfjara
- Vik - Seljalandsfoss Waterfall
- Seljalandsfoss - Waterfall Visit
Optional Activities:
- Vatnajokull - Glacier Hike (14500 ISK)
Accommodation:
- Guesthouse (Number of Nights: 1)
Start the day by returning to the Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon. Cruise between jagged icebergs in an included boat tour. Then take a scenic drive along the rugged coast of the East Fjords. Enjoy spectacular views of high mountains, deep fjords, spectacular waterfalls, glaciers and quaint fishing villages. Make stops along the way at small but notable towns like Djupivogur, which became a member of the cittaslow movement in 2013 and is aiming to be the Happiest Town in Iceland, and drop by Egilsstadir, home to the mythic Lagarfljot Wyrm. Continue along mountain roads into the highland to the farm village of Modrudalur. At 469 metres (1539 feet) above sea level, Modrudalur is the highest inhabited place in Iceland, and snow can be seen almost year-round. Stretch your legs with a walk to the farm's church, built in 1949 by farmer Jon Adalsteinn Stefansson in memory of his wife. Spend the evening on this unique farm, which is small but rich in history.
Included Activities:
- East Fjords - Scenic Drive with Stops at Djupivogur & Egilsstadir
- Jokulsarlon - Glacier Lagoon Boat Tour
Accommodation:
- Guesthouse (Number of Nights: 1)
Set off for magnificent Dettifoss, Europe's mightiest waterfall at 100-metres wide and with a 45-metre drop into the craggy shores of Jokulsargljufur canyon below. It’s so powerful that it’s vibrations can be felt underfoot. Continue to volcanic Lake Myvatn. Next is Namaskard, where steam rises from the sulphuric terrain and it’s hard to believe you’re on Earth and not Mars. Take a walk around the lava stacks and caves of Dimmuborgir and then observe the massive pseudo craters of Skutustadir. Continue to the crescent shaped Godafoss waterfall, where legend says a lawmaker priest threw the idols of the Norse gods when Christianity became Iceland’s official religion in AD1000. Travel on to Akureyri and settle into your accommodation for the evening.
Included Activities:
- Myvatn - Namaskard Boiling Mud Pools, Dimmuborgir & Skutustadir Crater Group
- Dettifoss - Waterfall Visit
- Myvatn - Lake Myvatn
- Godafoss - Waterfall Visit
Optional Activities:
- Akureyri - Forest Lagoon (6590 ISK)
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
Situated at the head of Iceland's longest fjord, Akureyri is the nation's second-largest city. Embark on a short walking tour of the town, taking in the striking church and other local sights. Later, continue to Snaefellsnes Peninsula, home to the magnificent Snaefellsjokull Glacier, which played a starring role in Jules Verne's 1864 novel Journey to the Centre of the Earth. Next up is Lysuholslaug, where you can bathe in thermal pools (depending on the season) or check out the Icelandic horses grazing in the fields. Look forward to an included home-cooked dinner this evening.
Included Activities:
- Akureyri - Walking Tour
- Snaefellsnes - Home-cooked dinner
Optional Activities:
- Lysuholl - Lysuholslaug Thermal Pool (seasonal) (1600 ISK)
Accommodation:
- Guesthouse (Number of Nights: 1)
Continue exploring the Snaefellsnes Peninsula, beginning with the white beach at Budir, then go on to Arnarstapi, where a short stroll along the coastal cliffs exposes you to rich bird life and other wonders of nature. Continue on to the basaltic pebble beach Djupalonssandur. In the afternoon head back to Reykjavik to complete your circuit of Iceland. You may wish to book an optional whale watching tour for late afternoon if you are here between May and December. The rest of the evening is yours for the taking. Perhaps head out for dinner with your fellow travellers and toast with a glass of Brennivin, a savoury schnapps.
Included Activities:
- Snaefellsnes National Park
Optional Activities:
- Reykjavik - Whale Watching (13990 ISK)
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
Today is departure day and time to say sjaumst (see you soon)! Check out time is at midday. If you are departing later, you can arrange with reception to store your luggage at the hotel. If you wish to spend more time in Reykjavik, we'll be happy to book additional accommodation for you (subject to availability). Please speak to your booking agent at the time of booking. Perhaps browse some of the city's great art galleries. If you feel like something more active, book yourself on a Silfra Fissure snorkelling adventure, where you’ll discover this underwater ridge with water visibility of up to 120 metres. Alternatively, while away the hours with a soak in the geothermal waters of the famous Blue Lagoon.
Optional Activities:
- Reykjavik - Maritime Museum (2350 ISK)
- Reykjavik - Harpa Concert Hall - Free
- Nauthólsvík - Thermal Beach - Free
- Reykjavik - Perlan Museum (5390 ISK)
- Reykjanes Peninsula - Blue Lagoon inc return transfer (22480 ISK)
- Reykjavik - Settlement Exhibition (2900 ISK)
- Reykjavik - Saga Museum (3600 ISK)
- Reykjavik - Whales of Iceland Museum (4300 ISK)
- Reykjavik - Silfra Fissure Snorkelling Day Trip inc return transfer from Reykjavik (28490 ISK)
- Reykjavik - Fly-Over Iceland (5950 ISK)
- Reykjavik - Sky Lagoon (12990 ISK)
Similar Tours
Tour Operator
Intrepid Travel
Intrepid Travel is a global adventure travel company, dedicated to providing sustainable, experience-rich travel opportunities. They’ve been the leader in ethical, small-group travel since 1989 - taking people around the world for more than 30 years. They’re the world’s largest travel B Corporation - dedicated to being the best travel company for the world. In 2002, they established The Intrepid Foundation so their travellers could make a lasting impact on the communities they had visited. Although Intrepid Travel absorbs all administrative costs of The Intrepid Foundation, they are separate legal entities, allowing The Intrepid Foundation to grow independently. Intrepid Travel is made up of a collection of tour operator brands and 28 destination management companies all united by one vision: To change the way we all see the world.
In Business Since 1989
Reviews
Claudia - Traveled, October 2023
Iceland was stunning, my trip was well organized & have a great insight into the coin & it’s history, a fabulous week of travel.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 10/18/2023
Lucy - Traveled, October 2023
Iceland is the most incredible country you will ever visit. The geography of the area is breath taking and you get to experience so many different elements by going the entire way around the country (not just the southern areas like most tourists do!).
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 10/22/2023
Emma - Traveled, November 2023
This was an amazing trip - jaw-dropping scenery at every turn and our guide, Lárus, was incredibly knowledgable and fun and made the trip so enjoyable; a very memorable journey for sure, highly recommend!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 11/16/2023
Donald - Traveled, October 2023
VISITING ICELAND IS LIKE TOURING THESE PLACES I HAVE VISITED, ALL IN ONE LOCATION: • Antarctica’s wildlife, rugged oceans & walk on snow/glaciers; • Alaska’s glaciers, majestic mountains, northern lights, vegetation & rugged life; • Maui’s waterfalls, volcanoes, whale watching & rich green landscapes; • Major city hop-on / hop- off bus touring seeing various tourist attractions - no car or taxi required; • Europe’s rich heritage, museums & fine dining; • Ushuaia Argentina’s friendly-layback citizens & low crime rate; • The cold-strong-gale force winds off Michigan’s Lake Superior southern coastline in Grand Marais. • Colorado’s Rocky Mountains & wide open spaces.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 10/16/2023
Deborah - Traveled, October 2023
Amazing experience just had on Intrepid's Iceland Discovery tour. Stunning waterfalls, glaciers, walk through a ice cave, cruising through icebergs, relaxing in hot springs plus lots more. Extremely fortunate to sight the Northern Lights, a once in a life time experience. Met some amazing travellers. Lots of laughs and amazing experiences. Our tour leader Jura was amazing, she shared all her countries history and stories of Iceland's Trolls.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 10/10/2023
Bryan - Traveled, September 2023
This trip blew me away, and has made it's way to the top of the list of my most favorite trips I've ever taken. Our guide, Siggy, went above and beyond to make the trip special. My soul is now filled until the next one.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 10/09/2023
Jessica - Traveled, September 2023
Excellent trip. Our guide Siggy really made it for us. Saw so many amazing places around Iceland. Got very lucky with my group of people who made it all the more special. Only real complaint is the housing. Some were extremely small and one of the houses had unstable flooring that you could push your foot through.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 10/10/2023
Julia - Traveled, September 2023
Our local guide, Jura was amazing. She was helpful, skilled and witty and really gifted us with the best Iceland experience possible.. This was my first group tour ever, but now I want to book another one! Intrepid is a class act.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 10/02/2023
Kate - Traveled, September 2023
The Iceland Discovery tour is a great way to see Iceland - especially if you also love waterfalls! The scenery is stunning which helps while away the time on some of the longer drives between towns. September meant that the weather was more variable but the autumn colours were also out in full and beautiful to see. Our trip leader, Jura, is very knowledgeable about Iceland, its history and culture as well as being a great all round leader! Accommodations were good, in varied and interesting places. Fully recommend this trip!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 10/14/2023
Julia - Traveled, September 2023
Our local guide, Jura was amazing. She was helpful, skilled and witty and really gifted us with the best Iceland experience possible.. This was my first group tour ever, but now I want to book another one! Intrepid is a class act.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 10/02/2023
Graham - Traveled, September 2023
This Icelandic Adventure Was SENSATIONAL IN ALL WAYS. Led by our Champion Tour Leader Jura we had a Ball. Highly Reccomend Mighty Intrepid & Iceland to ALL. A VERY HAPPY 11TH INTREPID ADVENTURE??????????
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 10/23/2023
Tania - Traveled, September 2023
Iceland was such an interesting country with lots to see and do. Siggy our tour leader was organized and informative and looked after us very well as he drove us on the whole loop of the country. A fascinating place to visit!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 10/12/2023
Matilda - Traveled, September 2023
Iceland was an excellent travel experience. Siggy our tour leader was great and looked after us well. I learnt so much about Iceland during my time there and enjoyed the range of walks and acivities we participated in.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 10/12/2023
Glen - Traveled, September 2023
This was an excellent tour that highlighted the dramatic physical landscape and interesting culture of Iceland. It was well organized and the guide was exceptional. Highly recommended!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 10/11/2023
Christopher - Traveled, September 2023
An exceptionally great guide can be a game changer - Stefan was truly that person
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 10/02/2023
Catherine - Traveled, September 2023
Excellent tour which surpassed my expectations. Iceland is definitely a place where nature is at its finest. From glaciers, falls, ice caves, mountain drives…just awesome! Our guide Stefan was the best, with good storytelling, excellent driving, and went above and beyond the usual services. It was nice to travel with a local who really loves and is enthusiastic about his country, its nature and sights. Excellent food, made me a lamb convert. Love the unique farm stays. We went to places and did activities that I couldn’t have done on my own. Overall A+++ for the A team!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 10/02/2023
Damoon - Traveled, September 2023
Magnificent experience from start to finish. It ended way too soon so I guess I'll just have to come back to Iceland again!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 10/02/2023
Sandra - Traveled, July 2024
Iceland is a stunning, diverse and magical natural wonderland and this Intrepid tour is a really thorough way to see it. Our guide Kris was wonderful. Just be warned - it is cold - even mid summer.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 07/28/2024
Marta - Traveled, July 2024
This trip exceeded all my expectations in the breadth of experiences and the beauty of each destination. Our guide Margret helped enhance the experience for me and I would recommend Intrepid Travel to any one seeking an exciting trip
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 07/27/2024
Tammy - Traveled, July 2024
This tour was incredible! Perfect itinerary, unbelievable experiences and activities, wonderful accommodations and the best guide we could ask for. Our guide, Arni, was the ideal leader for our first trip to Iceland. He was knowledgeable, friendly, approachable, caring, organized and FUN. His enthusiasm and love for Iceland and its environment is inspiring and made for the trip of a lifetime!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 07/15/2024
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