Iceland
Overview:
It's no surprise that Iceland is a photographer's favorite destination, often visited dozens of times due to the dynamics of nature and seasonal nuance. The country has a low population density with vast swaths of wild landscapes yet with well-maintained roads and friendly, nature-loving Icelanders, making it a destination that is easy to explore. Whether dining in the capital city of Reykjavik or in the remote countryside, the food will not disappoint. Scandinavian architecture, Viking heritage, mystical folklore, unique wildlife experiences, and endless outdoor adventures are but a few of the signature characteristics of this island country. The rugged, other-wordly landscapes have been the backdrop for cinematic sagas, such as The Game of Thrones, James Bond, Star Wars, and more. It is a year-round destination as many brave the cold temperatures for their chance to witness the Northern Lights, however the summer months offer the best weather and plenty of daylight to make the most of your explorations.
Itinerary Summary:
Days 1 – 4 South Coast / Blue Lagoon / Hiking / Geothermal Hot Springs / Glacier Trek & Kayak / Waterfalls / Icelandic Horse Riding /Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach
Day 4 Golden Circle Self-Drive Thingvellir National Park / Geysirs / Gullfoss Waterfall / Friðheimar Greenhouse / Fontana Geothermal Spa
Days 5 – 8 Snaefellsnes Peninsula Stykkishólmur Village / Breiðafjörður Bay / Atlantic Puffin Birds / Vatnshellir Cave / Hiking / Kirkjufell Mountain / Icelandic Horse Riding / Whale Tours
Days 8 – 10 Reykjavik Restaurants / Nightlife / Shopping / Whale Tours/
Day 10 Depart
The Essentials:
Seasonality: Year Round - Best from May through August for warmer weather, longer days, Midnight Sun; Northern Lights can be seen from September through April, though longer dark nights of mid-winter increase chances or on the Equinoxes in September and April.
Boutique 3-4 star accommodations, breakfast, tours, and car rental would be part of this customized itinerary.
Highlights: Beautiful Landscapes / Multitude of Activities / Local Experiences / Independent Itinerary
Cost: from $$
Itinerary:
South Coast - Hveragerdi– 3 Nights
Welcome to Iceland!
Pick up your rental vehicle at the airport and make your way to your hotel in Hveragerði, either via Reykjavik or along the scenic south coast. A short distance from the airport lies the famous Blue Lagoon. Enjoy a refreshing soak and spa treatment, perhaps an Icelandic Tasting Menu before continuing your journey to Hveragerði and your base for the next 3 nights.
Spend two days exploring Iceland's southern coastline including Sólheimajökull glacier, Reynisfjara Beach, Hengill Volcano Geo-Thermal area and Seljalandsfoss, Gljúfrabúi and Skógafoss Waterfalls. Your glacier tour is a small group guided adventure, while your hiking and geothermal river bath is a private tour and your beach and waterfall explorations are at your leisure. For those interested in learning more about the Icelandic Horse, or taking a ride on one, that can be included in your customized itinerary.
Golden Circle Self-Drive
Doing this popular touring route as a self-drive will enable you to explore at your own pace and avoid some of the crowds, especially if traveling during peak seasons. The route we suggest is a counter clockwise, and opposite to the majority of the group tours, but you should plan an early start to have plenty of time to enjoy the sights. From Hveragerdi, points of interest include the less-visited Grafningur area of Thingvellir, the crater Kerid, and a stop at Skalholt to visit its historical church. Lunch, stop options include Bragginn, Fridheimar, Kaffi Klettur, or Minilik. Then the Secret Lagoon in Fludir and a soak in the hot springs, the Gullfoss waterfall, and a stop at Geysir are all options to consider. You may be ready for an afternoon treat so try some locally made ice cream in Efstidalur before heading to Thingvellir. You could try a snorkeling or diving tour in Silfra by Thingvellir before diverting off towards the Snæfellsnes Peninsula. Your hotel awaits after a long full day of iconic Icelandic sights and adventures.
Snæfellsnes Peninsula – 3 Nights
Snæfellsnes Peninsula – 3 Nights
The Snaefellsnes peninsula is the first community in Europe to get the EarthCheck environmental certification confirming that the region is an environmentally conscious community. They were also the first communities in Europe to receive certification from Green Globe, an international benchmarking system for sustainable travel and tourism. You have two full days to explore this “mini-Iceland” and know that you will be participating in sustainable tourism practices. Some of the guided tour options include Vatnshellir Cave, an 8000 year old lava tube, a guided hike to explore the lava coastline learning about the geology and wildlife of the region, or for the more fit, a summit hike of Snæfellsnes Glacier, a whale watching cruise, or for birding enthusiasts a must do Atlantic Puffin Bird tour (whale and bird tours seasonal). Guided horse riding around Snaefellsjökull glacier is also available. Take time to explore the local villages with museums, art, and local culture, walk the pristine black and golden sand beaches, and take in the sensory overload of visual landscapes everywhere you look.
Reykjavik – 2 Nights
Leaving the Snaefellsnes peninsula, make your way to Reykjavik, taking the time to explore along the way at your leisure. Once settled into your centrally located hotel, enjoy some of the city’s vibrant nightlife and array of exciting culinary options. If you missed a whale tour while on the peninsula, you can embark on one from here. Try a midnight sun cruise if you are there in season. The compact city is easy to explore with shops, restaurants, historical museums, art centers and more.
Returning to the airport is an easy hour drive from the city, so at the appropriate time, make your way there allowing time to return your rental vehicle prior to check-in for your return flight home.
Please call us on +1 720 494 1530 or email us at the link below to discuss this trip further with a travel expert. We would be happy to discuss ways to tailor this itinerary to your personal preferences.
