Iceland Discovery

Iceland Discovery

3,466 Views
8 Days From

$3976

$3578

Tour 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 ethereal, they’ve 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! ...more ...less

Highlights

  • Discover there’s a lot more to Iceland than ice (and Bjork). Ford the fjords, glaciers, volcanoes and black sand beaches, and maybe consider adding on a visit to the renowned Blue Lagoon for a soak in the geothermal springs.

  • Spend the evening in the farm town of Modrudalur – an isolated settlement and the highest inhabited place in Iceland – and enjoy a home-cooked dinner at your 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.

Itinerary

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Day 1: Reykjavik

Reykjavik, Iceland
Reykjavik, Iceland

Location: Reykjavik

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: Hotel

Hallo! Welcome to Iceland. Your adventure begins in 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, this city boasts a vibrant arts and nightlife scene. You’ll have a welcome meeting at 6 pm at your accommodation tonight. 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 join locals in the Laugardalslaug Geothermal Pool. ...more ...less

Day 2: Golden Circle / Hvolsvollur Valley

Location: Golden Circle / Hvolsvollur Valley

Accommodation: Guesthouse

Accommodation Name: Guesthouse

Meals Included: Breakfast

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 20 to 30 m in the air. See 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 – your home for the night.

Included Activities:
-Golden Circle - Strokkur Geysir
-Golden Circle - Gullfoss Waterfall
-Golden Circle - Thingvellir National Park

Optional Activities:
-Fludir - Secret Lagoon
-Hvolsvollur - Lava Center

Day 3: South Coast / Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon

Location: South Coast / Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon

Accommodation: Guesthouse

Accommodation Name: Guesthouse

Meals Included: Breakfast

You’ll start the day at the Seljalandsfoss and Skogafoss waterfalls – you can feel the power of Skogafoss up close at the viewpoint, with a strenuous walk up a windy set of stairs. 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 wash up onto the black sand. Maybe book the optional walk along the face of one of Europe's largest glaciers – the epic ice cap of Vatnajokull.

Included Activities:
-Skogafoss - Waterfall Visit
-South Coast - Rocks of Reynisfjara
-Vik - Seljalandsfoss Waterfall
-Seljalandsfoss - Waterfall Visit

Optional Activities:
-Vatnajokull - Glacier Hike

Day 4: East Fjords / Modrudalur Valley

Location: East Fjords / Modrudalur Valley

Accommodation: Guesthouse

Accommodation Name: Guesthouse

Meals Included: Breakfast

Return to Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon this morning to cruise between the jagged icebergs on a boat tour. Then, take a scenic drive along the rugged coast of the East Fjords. Enjoy the spectacular views of high mountains, deep fjords, waterfalls, glaciers and 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. Drop by Egilsstadir – home to the mythic Lagarfljot Wyrm – then continue along mountain roads to the farm village of Modrudalur. At 469 m (1539 ft) 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, then settle in for the night.

Included Activities:
-East Fjords - Scenic Drive with Stops at Djupivogur & Egilsstadir
-Jokulsarlon - Glacier Lagoon Boat Tour

Day 5: Lake Myvatn / Akureyri

Location: Lake Myvatn / Akureyri

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: Hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast

Set off for Dettifoss – Europe's mightiest waterfall at 100-m wide and with a 45-m 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, then Namaskard, where steam rises from the sulphuric terrain. Walk around the lava stacks and caves of Dimmuborgir, then see 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 AD 1000. 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

Day 6: Akureyri / Snaefellsnes Peninsula

Location: Akureyri / Snaefellsnes Peninsula

Accommodation: Guesthouse

Accommodation Name: Guesthouse

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

Situated at the head of Iceland's longest fjord, Akureyri is the nation's second-largest city. This morning, 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. Tonight, you’ll join your group and hosts for a delicious home-cooked dinner.

Included Activities:
-Akureyri - Walking Tour
-Snaefellsnes - Home-cooked dinner

Optional Activities:
-Lysuholl - Lysuholslaug Thermal Pool (seasonal)

Day 7: Snaefellsnes Peninsula / Reykjavik

Location: Snaefellsnes Peninsula / Reykjavik

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: Hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast

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. 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 later this afternoon if you’re here between May and December. The rest of the evening is yours to maybe head out to dinner with your fellow travellers and toast with a glass of Brennivin (a savoury schnapps) to a wonderful adventure.

Included Activities:
-Snaefellsnes National Park

Optional Activities:
-Reykjavik - Whale Watching

Day 8: Reykjavik

Reykjavik, Iceland
Reykjavik, Iceland

Location: Reykjavik

Meals Included: Breakfast

Today, your adventure comes to an end and it’s time to say sjaumst (see you soon)! If you'd like to extend your stay and browse some of the city's great art galleries or take on a Silfra Fissure snorkelling adventure, just get in touch with your booking agent ahead of time.

Optional Activities:
-Reykjavik - Maritime Museum
-Reykjavik - Harpa Concert Hall - Free
-Nauthólsvík - Thermal Beach - Free
-Reykjavik - Perlan Museum
-Reykjanes Peninsula - Blue Lagoon inc return transfer
-Reykjavik - Settlement Exhibition
-Reykjavik - Saga Museum
-Reykjavik - Whales of Iceland Museum
-Reykjavik - Silfra Fissure Snorkelling Day Trip inc return transfer from Reykjavik
-Reykjavik - Fly-Over Iceland
-Reykjavik - Sky Lagoon

What's Included

  • Accommodation
    Hotel (4 nights), Guest house & Farm stay with shared facilities (3 nights)

  • Meals
    7 breakfasts, 1 dinners

  • Golden Circle - Strokkur Geysir

  • Golden Circle - Gullfoss Waterfall

  • Golden Circle - Thingvellir National Park

  • Skogafoss - Waterfall Visit

  • South Coast - Rocks of Reynisfjara

  • Vik - Seljalandsfoss Waterfall

  • Seljalandsfoss - Waterfall Visit

  • East Fjords - Scenic Drive with Stops at Djupivogur & Egilsstadir

  • Jokulsarlon - Glacier Lagoon Boat Tour

  • Myvatn - Namaskard Boiling Mud Pools, Dimmuborgir & Skutustadir Crater Group

show more

What's Not Included

  • International Travel

  • Tipping and Gratuities

Included Activities

  • Hvolsvollur Valley - Responsible Travel Tree Planting Activity
  • Seljalandsfoss - Waterfall Visit
  • Golden Circle - Strokkur Geysir
  • Golden Circle - Gullfoss Waterfall
  • Golden Circle - Thingvellir National Park
  • Skogafoss - Waterfall Visit
  • South Coast - Rocks of Reynisfjara
  • Seljalandsfoss - Waterfall Visit
  • East Fjords - Scenic Drive with Stops at Djupivogur & Egilsstadir
  • Jokulsarlon - Glacier Lagoon Boat Tour
  • Myvatn - Namaskard Boiling Mud Pools, Dimmuborgir & Skutustadir Crater Group
  • Dettifoss - Waterfall Visit
  • Myvatn - Lake Myvatn
  • Godafoss - Waterfall Visit
  • Akureyri - Walking Tour
  • Snaefellsnes National Park

Transport

  • On this trip we are travelling in our own private minibus as this allows us to reach some more off the beaten path destinations and gives us flexibility which would not be possible by public transport. Please note that there are some long travel days and some rough stretches on gravelly and windy roads. On some days we depart early in the morning to ensure we optimise our time. All our vehicles in Iceland have complimentary Wi-Fi.

Accommodation

  • OCCASIONAL ALTERNATIVE ACCOMMODATION
  • The style of accommodation indicated in the day-to-day itinerary is a guideline. On rare occasions, alternative arrangements may need to be made due to the lack of availability of rooms in our usual accommodation. A similar standard of accommodation will be used in these instances.
  • TWIN SHARE BASIS
  • Accommodation on this trip is on a twin/multishare basis. We pair up solo travellers with another traveller of the same gender as per the gender marker on each of their passports. Please note there may be times where facilities will be shared rather than ensuite and rare occasions when you share a room with passengers travelling on different Intrepid trips than your own.
  • CHECK-IN TIME
  • Throughout the trip we request that our hotels prepare rooms in time for our arrival, especially if we're arriving prior to normal check-in time. However this isn't always possible which means we won't be able to check-in immediately on arrival at some hotels. Instead, we can store our luggage and explore our new destination.
  • PRE/POST TRIP ACCOMMODATION
  • If you've purchased pre-trip or post-trip accommodation (if available), you may be required to change rooms from your trip accommodation for these extra nights.
  • FACILITIES
  • Your accommodation may not always have private en suite facilities or air-conditioning. European hotels generally don't provide kettles or fridges.

Important Information

  • 1. A single supplement is available if you’d prefer not to share a room on this trip. The single supplement applies to all nights of your trip and is subject to availability. Please note that due to the small properties we use in Europe there is only a limited amount of single supplements available per trip departure. Please speak to your booking agent for further information.
  • 2. Iceland can be an expensive destination in many ways, from museum entrance fees to outdoor activities, but especially in terms of eating out. Your leader will be able to advise on how to save money. In remote areas the only option for dinner will be at the guesthouse we are staying at. Stock up on food at a supermarket prior to arrival if you would like to opt out eating at the guesthouse's restaurant. Please make sure you read the trip notes carefully in order to know what is and what isn't included in the trip price.

Mode of Transport

  • On this trip we are travelling in our own private minibus as this allows us to reach some more off the beaten path destinations and gives us flexibility which would not be possible by public transport. Please note that there are some long travel days and some rough stretches on gravelly and windy roads. On some days we depart early in the morning to ensure we optimise our time. All our vehicles in Iceland have complimentary Wi-Fi.

Check out our Q&As

  • Is this trip right for you

    A remote location and high-performing currency are just two reasons Iceland can be an expensive destination. This affects things like museum entrance fees and outdoor activities, but is especially noticeable when eating out. Your leader will be able to advise on how to save money, but in remote areas the only option for dinner will be at the guesthouse we are staying at. Please stock up on food at a supermarket prior to arrival if you would like to opt out eating at the guesthouse's restaurant.

    The extremity of the weather makes for incredible scenery, but it also means Iceland can be very cold, especially at the start and end of the season and at night. Please bring appropriate clothing for adverse weather conditions. On the rare occasions your leader must alter the itinerary due to the weather which can cause roads being blocked, sites closure etc. Your leader will discuss the necessary changes and alternatives where possible.

    In order to access what’s off the beaten track, a few long drives are in order. This is a great opportunity to enjoy the scenery and spend some time getting to know the other members of your group.

    The facilities will be shared in some of the guest houses that you stay on this trip.
    ...more ...less

  • What policies are in place for Covid-19?

    Please contact us for latest COVID-19 policies

  • How long has the tour company been trading?

    Intrepid Travel has been taking travellers around the world for over 30 years

  • Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?

    Yes

  • What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?

    Since 2002, The Intrepid Foundation has supported over 130 organisations across the world. We’re creating positive impact through the joy of travel, community and connection.

  • Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?

    Over 50% of traveller travel solo with Intrepid. You can choose to share a room with another solo travelle of the same sex for no additional charge, or choose to pay a single supplement if you’d like your own room. Please request this when booking, and we will secure you a single supplement wherever possible. Please note, if you are booking a last-minute trip, it may be harder for us to secure a single room

Reviews of this operator

Maroochy Dazza (Google Reviewer)  

Just leaving a review to...

24-Aug-2023

Just leaving a review to share how much I enjoyed my Central America trip. I thought the guide, Aura was so knowledgeable and organised and clearly a great ambassador for Intrepid. She gave us lots of information on each region, helped us organise anything we needed and dealt with queries from passengers very well and diplomatically. She made the trip run smoothly. She was also keen to explain the Intrepid vision and how the company values making a difference to locals and is a credit to your company. I did Guatemala and beyond and thoroughly enjoyed it - very fast paced, lots to see and do and a great overview of the region. I would definitely recommend 👍 ...more ...less

LivvyGrace 4 (Google Reviewer)  

I just completed my first...

15-Jul-2024

I just completed my first Intrepid tour which was 33 days travelling around Central America - I had the time of my life! It was great to have the benefit of a guide (Fluffy was amazing!) and be able to ask questions at any point, but I also liked the freedom that you were permitted throughout. The group tour made boarder crossings seamless and the whole process felt easy - there was never one hiccup. As a solo female traveller, I felt safe throughout, and I cannot recommend Central America enough - the people, the food, the sun and the activities were just amazing :) Can't wait to book my next adventure soon! ...more ...less

V Open (Google Reviewer)  

I have just come back...

26-Oct-2022

I have just come back home after doing Intrepid's 10-day Vietnam Express Northbound tour. What a SUPERB tour. We saw lots and did lots, it was jam-packed full of sights and activities. Our tour leader, Tam, was the best ever. Very knowledgeable, organised and lots of fun too. The other 10 people on the group were all lovely. The places we visited were very interesting. We even visited local homes and ate just like the local people do. I highly recommend Intrepid to anyone considering touring a new country. This was my 5th tour with them and they have consistently been fantastic. ...more ...less

john whelan (Google Reviewer)  

We booked the 10 day...

28-Feb-2025

We booked the 10 day Group Explorer package with them for Vietnam and Wow !!! . It was fantastic. We were initially a bit anxious, but that all settled after day one. There is a fair bit of travelling and moving involved, but we'll woth it as you get to see and experience loads .Our Guide Huy was brilliant and looked after us really well from local knowledge to restaurants and tour information and activities . It's worth doing folks with intrepid . Well done, keep up that standard of service. ...more ...less

Jack Edwards (Google Reviewer)  

I have travelled with Intrepid...

03-Jun-2024

I have travelled with Intrepid a number of times now and can't recommend them enough. The trips are always exciting, full of history and immersive in the culture and environment. The office staff are great too and always happy to help with any questions you might have. Everywhere I have gone with the company has been different but the guides and itinerary have always been excellent and full of knowledge and passion for their country. Add in the social responsibility angle the company has and it top quality ethical practice and you can't go wrong ...more ...less

Jo Clayton (Google Reviewer)  

I recently went on an...

15-Mar-2024

I recently went on an 11 day tour of India with Intrepid and was impressed with every aspect of the tour, the tour leader and the organisation behind the scenes. I always travel alone so it was a big deal to join a tour, I didn't want to feel less independent or ferried about. I loved being part of a group and the things we saw and did on the tour, I would never have known about or seen if I had been by myself. I loved it from start to finish. Yes the overnight trains were not easy to sleep on, but I managed. Meeting locals on board was a high light for me. English is widely spoken in India and its amazing who you strike up a chat with. I had two problems on the tour - one my own fault and one hotel related. The support from Intrepid was amazing. I cannot thank them enough for going the extra mile to support me. I recommend Intrepid 100% and have gone from thinking an organised tour is for people who don't know about Lonely Planet and can't do solo stuff, to realising its a faster, better, more fun way to get to know a country truly and deeply whilst on a bit of a budget. I will book again and again with Intrepid. I loved it that much! Big thanks to tour leader Daddy H. Devender for his help on day one, and Nick in the Oz office for his fab customer care skills. Also the person who staffed the emergency whatsapp in India - you saved my sanity helping me get there a day late! THANK YOU ALL X ...more ...less

Nicole  

North American Adventure

12-Oct-2021

This was my first international solo trip, but I never felt “alone” - there was always someone to go shopping, hike, or grab a quick bite with. The itinerary was a great balance between organized activities, while still allowing free time for exploring. Each location was unique and charming in its own way. Spending the night in the holy city of Moulay Idriss and wandering the winding streets of Chefchaouen were especially memorable. Thank you Mustapha and Intrepid for an incredible adventure! ...more ...less

Declan Curry (Google Reviewer)  

I have recently completed the...

07-Feb-2025

I have recently completed the Premium India In Depth tour. A most wonderful introduction to this amazing continent. From the Taj Mahal to Tigers 🐅 in the wild , dining whe the locals eat and a couple of meals with families was a great way to embrace the people and their culture. Magnificent architecture,be it Forts or Shrines. The most informative and inspiring of guides was great to have with us. Mumbai to Delhi and 6 more cities plus A Safari included. Best trip to experience India 🇮🇳. Prepare to have all your senses assaulted . Go for it. ...more ...less

Alice Norton (Google Reviewer)  

I have just completed a...

29-Feb-2024

I have just completed a 12 day food tour of Vietnam, and had an amazing time. Our tour leader was great, knowledgeable and kind, who helped throughout the trip with recommendations for places on our free days, and spas. All the food we tried was delicious. It is a very fast paced tour, and Bon tried to maximise our experiences for the best. ...more ...less

D' ARTICULATE (Google Reviewer)  

They offer some great deals...

11-Jan-2025

They offer some great deals and group travel itineraries without the flights but will include them if needed by the traveller ; leaving one to choose a more personal holiday stance or exploration & time schedule too. Neat!

1 Select your preferred date

Wednesday - Wednesday

Apr 16, 2025 - Apr 23, 2025
$4630 (USD)

Saturday - Saturday

Apr 19, 2025 - Apr 26, 2025
$3976 $3578 (USD)

Operator discount: -$398 (USD)

Monday - Monday

Apr 21, 2025 - Apr 28, 2025
$4216 $3794 (USD)

Operator discount: -$422 (USD)

Wednesday - Wednesday

Apr 23, 2025 - Apr 30, 2025
$4630 (USD)
Prices last published on 16-Mar-2025

Book with Confidence

  • Free Date Changes

    Intrepid Travel allows you to make 10 free date changes, as long as the change is made at least 56 days before the start of the tour.

  • Transfer as credit to Future Tours

    Intrepid Travel allows you to transfer existing payments to a future tour to avoid cancellation fees if you can't travel and inform intrepid travel, 56 days before departure.

  • Low Deposit

    Intrepid Travel requires a minimum deposit of 400 USD per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 56 days before departure.

  • Cancellation Policy

    We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of intrepid travel charges.

    Up to 56 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.

    At 55 days before tour starts: Forfeit 30% of booking price.

    At 30 days before tour starts: Forfeit 60% of booking price.

    At 14 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.

Enquire for Extra Savings

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Iceland Discovery

8 Days Starting and ending in Reykjavik

Visiting: Reykjavik, Golden Circle / Hvolsvollur Valley, South Coast / Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon, East Fjords / Modrudalur Valley, Lake Myvatn / Akureyri, Akureyri / Snaefellsnes Peninsula, Snaefellsnes Peninsula / Reykjavik ...more ...less

Tour operator:

Intrepid Travel

Tour code:

BMSI

Guide Type:

Fully Guided

Group size:

1 - 12

Physical rating:

Low

Age range:

15-99

Tour operated in:

English

Trip Styles:

Adventure Tours

From: $3976 $3578 (USD) Operator discount: -$398

NB: Prices correct on 16-Mar-2025 but subject to change.

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