ICELAND
GROUP
PROGRAMS
REFRESHINGLY DIFFERENT
Ice & Spice
Duration: 6 days / 5 nights.
Operation: All year
Iceland is full of concealed treasures
and in six days we enjoy a memorable journey of massive glaciers,
natural hot springs, the uninhabited
interior, impressive canyons and
lush green meadows. The variety
and beauty of Icelandic nature
never ceases to amaze visitors.
Ice & Spice Adventure: Discover Iceland with
adventure activities that challenge the mighty
forces of nature, while experiencing the ultimate
way to relax from the excitement. Glacier walking, bathing in sumptuous spas, and racing all
terrain vehicles in stunning natural surroundings are just the tip of the iceberg in adventure
options on this fantastic voyage.
Iceland has adventure for everyone and there
are several fun activity options that could easily
be added to this itinerary including fishing,
horseback riding, snowmobiling, river rafting,
snorkelling, caving, whale watching and more …
DAY 1
Arrival in Keflavík
Welcome greet at Keflavík airport.
Drive to Reykjavík for check-in at
the accommodation.
Overnight in Reykjavik.
Your Adventure: Blue Lagoon
We enjoy a dip in the famous Blue Lagoon
which is a unique wonder of nature with pleasantly warm mineral-rich geothermal water in
a middle of a black lava field. The high natural
levels of silica and minerals give the Lagoon
its rich blue color. A visit to the Blue Lagoon is
both invigorating and exciting whether bathing
in the unique surroundings or indulging in spa
therapy treatment in the luxurious and modern
facilities.
DAY 2
Skógar - Dyrhólaey - Vík
- Kirkjubæjarklaustur
Black Sand Beaches of the South Shore Waterfalls - Folk Museum - Puffin Colony
From Reykjavík we travel through the town
of Hveragerði and the surrounding fertile
farmlands, noting the numerous glacial rivers
on route to Skógar and Skógafoss waterfall.
Continue to Dyrhólaey*, a nature reserve where
thousands of puffins nest during the summer.
2
Discover the former site of a 12th-century
Catholic convent at Kirkjubæjarklaustur.
Dinner and overnight in the Kirkjubæjarklaustur area.
*Please note that Dyrholaey is closed during
nesting season in spring, middle May until
June 23rd
Your Adventure:
Kayaking in Stokkseyri
Kayaking in serene waters with breathtaking
views is a peaceful way to spend the day. Our
expert guide begins by teaching kayaking techniques and how the kayaks are stable and easy
to use. Paddle along the coast and enjoy the
magnificent views, before landing ashore and
relaxing in the quiet Icelandic countryside.
DAY 3
Skaftafell - Jökulsárlón
- Kirkjubæjarklaustur
Europe’s Largest National Park - Glacial
Lagoon with Icebergs - Europe’s Largest
Glacier
ideal playground for hiking and climbing with
ice walls of various shapes and heights. An
experienced guide teaches us how to use basic
glacier equipment before we meander through
a wonderland of ice sculptures, ridges and
glacial crevasses. This glacier walk is suitable
for all experience levels.
DAY 4
Landmannalaugar
or Þórsmörk Valley
Multicolored Mountains of the Interior Lava Fields - Hekla Volcano - Hot Springs
with Bathing
Start the day with a visit to the grand
Fjarðarárgljúfur gorge. Travel along the Fjallabaksleið highland interior track to Landmannalaugar, a magnificent area surrounded by
colorful rhyolite mountains, with the option of
bathing in a natural warm pool, a great way to
rejuvenate the skin and spirit (do not forget to
bring swimsuit). Spot the towering Hekla, the
legendary Icelandic volcano, after exploring
Þjórsárdalur Valley.
Dinner and overnight in the Flúðir area.
Travel from Kirkjubæjarklaustur towards
Skaftafell National Park, one of Iceland’s most
outstanding areas of natural beauty. The
area is dominated by spectacular views of the
mighty Vatnajökull, Europe’s largest glacier.
Continue to Jökulsárlón Glacial Lagoon where
huge icebergs float and grind together in the
still, deep waters of the lagoon.
Note: If the route to Landmannalaugar is
closed due to road conditions (spring or early
summer) the tour goes through lava fields and
outwash sands formed by floods from the glacial volcano Katla to Vík, passing two beautiful
waterfalls, and on to Þórsmörk valley which
lies in the shadow of the now famous Eyjafjallajökull volcano.
Dinner and overnight in the Kirkjubæjarklaustur area.
Your Adventure: Hot Spring Hike
Your Adventure: Glacier Walk
Svínafellsjökull glacier is a breathtaking
outlet glacier of Vatnajökull Glacier and with
stunning views and scenery. The glacier is an
We enjoy a colorful hike in the geothermal area
of Landmannalaugar, where nature has painted
the rhyolite mountains in yellows, greens and
reds. Visitors may also opt to bathe in the
natural hot rivers that run through the area.
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DAY 5
DAY 7
Gullfoss - Geysir - Þingvellir
- Reykjavík
Húsavík - Akureyri - Reykjavík
Whale Watching - Iceland’s Second Largest
City - Botanical Gardens
The Famous Golden Falls - Exploding
Geysers - National Park with Geological
Wonders (UNESCO)
Depart for Geysir hot spring area to see the
famous great Geysir and Strokkur, a hot spring
that spouts every few minutes. Onwards to
Gullfoss one of Iceland’s most impressive
waterfalls. Your next stop is Þingvellir National
Park, where the ancient parliament met for
centuries on the shores of Iceland’s largest
lake, before heading back to Reykjavik.
Overnight stay in Reykjavík.
Ice & Spice
– Extension North Iceland
DAY 6
Your Adventure: ATV
Hveragerði - Akureyri - Mývatn
There’s no better way to get the adrenaline
going than by crossing rugged landscapes
on an ATV (All Terrain Vehicle). Kjoastaðir is
located near Gullfoss and Geysir hot spring
area in Haukadalur where we drive on rough
tracks and cross beautiful rivers. ATVing is not
only a fun activity that everyone can enjoy but
also a unique opportunity to enjoy the purity of
exceptional surroundings.
Bizarre Lava Formations - Nature Baths Volcanic Crater
DAY 6
Departure
Transfer to Keflavík Airport for the return flight.
Please note that this tour also operates during the winter season, with certain variations.
We reserve the right to alter routes without
prior notice due to road conditions.
We depart early from Hveragerði to Reykjavík
Domestic Airport for our flight to Akureyri.
Upon landing we travel onwards to Lake
Mývatn, a wonderland of birdlife and bizarre
lava formations. We visit the impressive Skútustaðir pseudo-craters and the lava-labyrinth
of Dimmuborgir (Dark Castles). We stop near
Hverfjall to take a look at the hot water filled
cave of Grjótgjá. In the afternoon we visit Krafla volcanic area with its recent lava fields and
take a walk among the impressive solfataras of
Námaskarð with steam jets and boiling sulphur
pits. Overnight stay in Lake Mývatn area.
Optional: Visit the Whale center in Húsavík.
Your adventure:
Sea Angling / Horseback Riding
In summer try your hand at sea angling in
the North Atlantic with a local captain for the
ultimate fishing experience. In winter traverse
north Iceland’s spectacular lava terrain on a
sure footed Viking horse.
DAY 8
Departure
Transfer to Keflavík airport for the return flight.
Ísafjörður
6
Akureyri
Optional: Visit the nature baths in Mývatn.
Mývatn
Stykkishólmur
Egilsstaðir
Your Adventure:
Snowmobiling / Horseback Riding
Snowmobiling in winter in northern Iceland is a
thrilling adventure that everyone can enjoy. In
summer experience north Iceland’s spectacular
lava terrain on a sure footed Viking horse.
www.icelandtravel.is
We drive to Húsavík for a whale watching tour
in an old oak fishing boat, where we have the
opportunity to see a large variety of whales,
dolphins and birds in their natural surroundings. We return to the charming town of
Akureyri for a city sightseeing tour where we
learn the history of Akureyri, visit the modern
church, the Botanical Gardens and the Listagil
Street with its many artist studios. Flight back
to Reykjavík.
Reykjavík
1-5
4
2-3
Höfn
Kirkjubæjarklaustur
Vestmanneyjar
Vík
3
Pearls of Iceland
Duration: 8 days / 7 nights.
Operation: May - September
With so much to discover and
explore in Iceland, this comprehensive tour highlights the natural
wonders, the majestic landscapes
and the unique character of Iceland. This is a classic circle tour
that provides the perfect combination of culture and nature.
Culinary Focus: On this inspiring culinary
journey around the island we sample dishes
from some of the best culinary traditions around
Iceland, with private tours of local restaurants,
farms, greenhouses, dairies and smoke-houses.
During each dinner we enjoy a special meal of
local ingredients with a culinary discussion with
the chef or local food expert in the area. The
stops are carefully selected not only for their
Viking hospitality, charm and character but also
for their beautiful, natural settings.
DAY 1
Arrival
Geothermal Village - Greenhouses
Welcome greet at Keflavík airport. Departure
from Keflavík Airport to the nearby village of
Hveragerði, which is one of the few sites in the
world located directly on top of a geothermal
area. Hveragerði is often called the flower village because of its many greenhouses heated
by hot water from nearby springs. Located in
the beautiful Reykjadalur valley, this area is
typified by geothermal hot springs, and often
plumes of steam can be seen rising from the
ground. The Reykjadalsa River flows through
this area which is where geothermally heated
water meets fresh mountain streams, creating
the perfect temperature for outdoor bathing in
untouched nature.
Dinner and overnight stay in the Hveragerði
area.
Culinary focus highlights: We enjoy dinner
at Kjot & Kunst, as seen on Andrew Zimmer’s Bizarre Foods television program. This
restaurant specializes in Icelandic cuisine and
the unique kitchen is powered entirely by geothermal energy. Dine on lamb, fresh fish and
vegetables all cooked using steam generated
naturally from volcanic activity.
4
DAY 2
Þingvellir - Geysir - Gullfoss - Vík
National Park with Geological Wonders
(UNESCO) - Exploding Geysers - Massive
Waterfall - Puffin Colony - Black Sand
Beaches
We depart from the village of Hveragerði to
Þingvellir National Park to explore the grounds
of the ancient parliament site, Alþingi, on the
shores of Iceland’s largest lake. Here we see the
dramatic continental drift between the American and Eurasian tectonic plates. We travel on
to Iceland’s famous Gullfoss, or ‘Golden Falls’,
and the nearby Geysir hot spring area to see
the famous Geysir , and numerous hot springs
and boiling mud pools. Continuing along the
south shore we stop to admire Seljalandsfoss
and Skógafoss waterfalls before continuing to
Dyrhólaey* nature reserve. We conclude our
journey in the charming village of Vík.
Dinner and overnight in the Vík area.
*Please note that Dyrholaey is closed during
nesting season in spring, middle May til
June 23rd
Culinary focus highlights: Enjoy a BBQ lunch
at Geysir with grilled Icelandic mountain lamb
prepared with locally gown herbs. A truly
unique experience occurs up in the geothermal fields, where we sample rye bread, baked
underground by hot springs.
DAY 3
DAY 4
Höfn - East Fjords - Egilsstaðir
Narrow Fjords - Steep Mountains - Picturesque Coastline - Mineral Collection
We drive from Höfn through Almannaskarð
pass, stop and admire the majestic coastline.
Continue to the towering mountains plunging
vertically into the sea that form the magnificent East Fjords. Explore Petra’s renowned
collection of local stones and minerals.
Dinner and overnight in the Egilsstaðir area.
Culinary focus highlights: We take a break for
lunch in a charming restaurant in Breiðdalsvík
to enjoy their special recipe for traditional
meat soup, which is a dish that has been a
staple in Icelandic kitchens for centuries.
The lamb and vegetables featured in the stew
come from farmers in the area.
Vík - Skaftafell National
Park - Jökulsárlón Glacial
Lagoon - Höfn
Lake Mývatn Area
Lava Fields - Europe’s Largest National Park
- Glacial Lagoon with Icebergs - Europe’s
Largest Glacier
Highland Desert - Bizarre Lava Formations
- Geothermal & Volcanic Activity - Rich
Birdlife - Protected Salmon River
Cross Eldhraun, the largest mass of lava ever to
flow on the face of the Earth, before reaching
the small town Kirkjubæjarklaustur, a former
site of a 12th-century Catholic convent. The
tour continues over Skeiðarársandur sands to
Skaftafell National Park. Continue to the stunning Jökulsárlón Glacial Lagoon to see floating
icebergs and curious seals. Throughout the
day we are afforded magnificent views of the
mighty Vatnajökull Glacier.
Explore the empty vastness of the highland
desert plateau Möðrudalsöræfi, heading to
the Lake Mývatn area. Visit Námaskarð pass
with its boiling mud pools and vibrant colors.
Explore the natural beauty of the Lake Mývatn
area, including the peculiar lava formations at
Dimmuborgir, the pseudo craters at Skútustaðir and Laxá salmon river. One of Mývatn
area’s claims to fame is that it is home to more
species of ducks than any other place on Earth,
with very diverse birdlife in general.
Dinner and overnight in the Höfn area.
Culinary focus highlights: We stop for a delicious lunch of fresh trout caught in Kirkjubæjarklaustur which is famous for its “out of this
world” trout fishing. We also stop for a boat
tour on a magnificent glacial lagoon flowing
with icebergs where we will have the unique
experience of imbibing on Icelandic liquor
served over glacial ice. For dinner we enjoy a
special lobster feast as Höfn is known as the
“Lobster Capital of Northern Europe.”
DAY 5
Dinner and overnight in the Mývatn area.
Culinary focus highlights: We stop for lunch
at Möðrudalur farm which has been run by
the same family since 1874. Here we learn
how they smoke meat in a charming small
turf house as well as peruse their homemade
woolen-wear and handicrafts. At the café we
have a taste of the country pates, smoked
meats, and sausages made on the premises.
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DAY 6
Lake Mývatn Area - Akureyri
Waterfall “Of the Gods”- Folk Museum
- Iceland’s Second Largest City
Travel towards the bustling northern port of
Akureyri making a stop at the magnificent
Goðafoss waterfall and the old turf farm
Laufás. Akureyri has some of the finest timber
buildings in the country, beautifully restored to
their original glory.
Dinner and overnight in the Akureyri area.
Culinary focus highlights: On the banks of Lake
Mývatn we stop at the charming Vogafjós Cowshed Café which is known for its homemade
local food, such as smoked lake trout, smoked
lamb, mozzarella and feta cheeses made from
the farm’s cow milk. We will learn how the trout
and lamb are smoked on the premises using
long-standing and traditional methods.
Culinary focus highlights: On our sightseeing
tour of Reykjavik we make some tasty stops
along the way. Our farewell dinner takes place
at the Gallery Restaurant, which is a benchmark for Icelandic culinary excellence since it
opened in 1965. Chef de Cuisine, Friðgeir Ingi
Eiríksson, and his team, will guide us through
this feast of the senses, aided by a trip to their
private wine cellar with over 4000 bottles.
DAY 8
Departure
Transfer to Keflavík Airport for the return flight.
Note: We reserve the right to alter routes without prior notice due to road conditions.
Ísafjörður
Húsavík
Akureyri
DAY 7
Skagafjörður - Borgarfjörður
- Reykjavík
Fertile Farmlands - Glacial Rivers - Viking
Horses - Reykjavík City Sightseeing
Majestic mountains and narrow passes lead
to Skagafjörður for an introduction of the
unique Icelandic horse that has a special fifth
gait - the tölt. Towards the village of Blönduós
built on both sides of the river Blanda with
Hrútey Island a protected nature reserve
located in this popular salmon river. Cross the
Holtavörðuheiði plateau through Borgarfjörður
to our final destination of Reykjavík for a city
sightseeing tour.
6
Stykkishólmur
7-8
Reykjavík
5
Mývatn
Egilsstaðir
4
3
1
Höfn
Hveragerði
2
Vestmanneyjar
Kirkjubæjarklaustur
Vík
Overnight in Reykjavík area.
www.icelandtravel.is
5
Iceland’s Mystical Interior
Duration: 12 days / 11 nights.
Operation: July-September
This tour is ideal for those who
like to travel in the unspoiled and
breathtaking nature of the Icelandic highlands, also known as the
uninhabited interior. Visitors get to
see most of Iceland’s highlights in a
comprehensive program with many
interesting hiking tours, of various
difficulty levels in the rugged and
stunning nature.
DAY 1
Arrival
Welcome greet at Keflavík airport.
Drive to Reykjavík for check-in at the
accommodation.
Overnight in Reykjavík.
Optional: Visit to the Blue Lagoon.
DAY 2
Reykjavík - Þingvellir - Gullfoss
– Hella
National Park of Geological Wonders
(UNESCO) - Massive Waterfall
- Exploding Geysers
The tour begins with a drive past the Nesjavellir geothermal area to lake Þingvallavatn, Iceland’s largest lake, and Þingvellir National Park.
Þingvellir is a remarkable geological site, and
the most historic place on the island, where
the world’s oldest democratic parliament was
founded in 930. We visit the “Golden waterfall”
Gullfoss, one of the most impressive waterfalls
in Europe. Here you can see thousands of tons
of icy water thunder majestically down in a
double-fall into a deep gorge. A few minutes’
drive from Gullfoss is the world famous Geysir
region, where hot springs are in abundance,
such as the famous great Geysir which has
given name to hot springs all over the world.
We will see one of the most active geysers in
the area, Strokkur, spouting up to 30 meters
(100 feet) every few minutes. Continue to the
village of Hella for an overnight stay.
Dinner and overnight in the Hella area.
DAY 3
Þórsmörk – Eyjafjallajökull
Volcano
Glacial Valley - Volcano Aftermath
- Thundering Waterfalls
We will spend this day exploring the area close
to the towering strata volcano Eyjafjallajökull,
which is probably the most famous volcano
in the world today. Today the aftermath of
the volcanic eruption can be clearly seen in
Thorsmork Glacier Valley, the natural oasis that
lies just behind the volcano. What was once a
white glittering glacial cap is now covered by
black ash and the breathtaking glacial lagoon
that was once there now has completely
washed away. The sight of what the unbridled
power of a spouting volcano can do in a short
time to its surroundings is breathtaking and
leaves visitors awestricken. On the way back
we see the spectacular Seljalandsfoss waterfall
cascading down the cliff’s edge in a unique
way. Return to Hella in the afternoon for an
overnight stay.
Dinner and overnight in the Hella area.
DAY 4
Hella - Sprengisandur - Lake
Mývatn
Iceland’s Largest Lava Field - Uninhabited
Interior - Waterfall “Of the Gods”
Across the wilderness of Sprengisandur, the
uninhabited interior highlands between the
glaciers Hofsjökull and Vatnajökull, pass
the largest continuous lava field in Iceland,
Ódáðahraun. For ages the lava field was an
unexplored area and it was believed that
people who were excommunicated lived there.
Descend into the greenness of the sheltered
Bárðardalur valley. Visit of Goðafoss, a beautiful crescent of cascading water.
DAY 5
Dettifoss - Ásbyrgi – Húsavík
Europe’s Most Powerful Waterfall
- Glacier Carved Canyon - Whale Watching
Drive through the beauty of Lake Mývatn, to
Dettifoss, Europe´s most powerful waterfall.
It’s 44m (144 ft) high and 100m (328 ft) wide,
where up to 1500 tons of water, mud and sand
rumble into Jökulsárgljúfur, the greatest and
the most spectacular canyon in the country.
Continue to Ásbyrgi, “Fortress of the Gods”, a
horseshoe-shaped canyon, formed as the result
of a catastrophic flood. We stop in the fishing
village of Húsavík for a memorable whale
watching tour, where a wide variety whales are
very often seen.
Dinner and overnight in the Lake Mývatn area.
Optional: Whale center of Húsavík.
DAY 6
Lake Mývatn
Bizarre Lava Formations - Massive Crater Rich Birdlife - Nature Baths with Swimming
Exploring the natural wonders of Lake Mývatn
area, which is unique and has been sculpted
by volcanic eruptions through the ages. Lake
Mývatn is one of the largest lakes in Iceland
and renowned for rich birdlife. It is thought to
nest more species of duck than any other place
in the world. We visit the boiling solfatara pits
at Hverarönd by Námafjall. View of Hverfjall,
one of the most striking and regular formations
of explosive craters in Iceland and one of the
Earth’s largest. We take a look at the Grjótagjá
cave with underground bathing springs. On
to Dimmuborgir “The Dark Castles”, a true
labyrinth of lava formation. Top the day with a
relaxing dip in the Mývatn’s Nature Baths.
Dinner and overnight in the Lake Mývatn area.
Dinner and overnight in the Lake Mývatn area.
6
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DAY 7
DAY 9
DAY 11
Mývatn - Vopnafjörður –
Egilsstaðir
Höfn - Skaftafell National Park –
Kirkjubæjarklaustur
Kirkjubæjarklaustur Landmannalaugar – Reykjavík
Quaint Fishing Village - Geothermal
Swimming - Glacial Lake
Glacial Lagoon with Icebergs - Iceland’s
Highest Peak - Black Sand Beaches
Multicolored Mountains of the Highlands
- Hot Springs - Hekla Volcano
Head through the interior highlands to Vopna­
fjörður and explore this beautiful oasis on the
boarder to the arctic. Some 900 people live in
and around picturesque Vopnafjörður, making
their living from the sea, agriculture, trade, and
services. Enjoy a swim in the fine swimming
pool on the banks of river Selá. Visit Bustarfell
farm in Hofsárdalur, one of the best-preserved
sod houses of Iceland before continuing over
Hellisheiði mountain pass. This pass is among
the highest and steepest mountain roads of
the country. We continue to Egilsstaðir, the
capital of the East, located by the glacial lake,
Lögurinn.
We spend the morning in the lovely town
of Höfn, also known as the “Lobster Capital
of Northern Europe.” We drive to the mystical Jökulsárlón glacial lagoon with immense
floating icebergs that have broken off from the
descending glacier tongue of Breiðamerkurjökull. Drive through Öræfi area, devastated
twice in Icelandic history through powerful
eruptions of the Öræfajökull strata-volcano,
Iceland’s highest mountain (elev 2,110 m. /
6900 ft.) towering over the area. We arrive in
Skaftafell National Park, where we enjoy the
stark contrast of lush vegetation and barrenness in this splendid area of natural beauty. We
head across Skeiðarársandur, one of the largest
black sands in Iceland to Kirkjubæjarklaustur,
located in an area of renowned natural beauty
and mild climate.
Drive along the Fjallabaksleið interior track to
the magnificent waterfall Ófærufoss and Eldgjá
“The Fire Gorge”. Eldgjá was created during a
tremendous eruption around the year 900. On
to Landmannalaugar, an area with volcanic craters and beautifully colored rhyolite mountains,
a real oasis in the highland desert. There we
find hot springs and recent lava fields. We continue through Dómadalur trail, where countless
lava fields and craters adorn the landscape,
and past Iceland’s best known volcano Hekla.
Return to Reykjavík in the late evening.
Dinner and overnight in the Egilsstaðir area.
DAY 8
Egilsstaðir – Höfn
East Fjords - Steep Mountains
- Picturesque Coastline - Mineral Collection
From Egilsstaðir we drive along the rugged and
varied coastline of the East Fjords. Towering
mountains, with bare rock faces ridged by the
forces of weather and wind, plunge vertically
into the sea to form Iceland’s magnificent East
Fjords. Stöðvarfjörður is known for a beautiful
rock collection which is owned and collected
by Petra Sveinsdóttir. We visit Djúpivogur, a
town with history of trading since the 16th
century and a long history of fishing. Some
beautiful old wooden houses dating from that
period have recently been restored. Dinner and
overnight in the Höfn area.
Optional: Evening tour to Vatnajökull glacier
Dinner and overnight in the Kirkjubæjarklaustur area.
Overnight in Reykjavík.
Optional: Bathing in a naturally warm brook.
DAY 12
Departure
Transfer to Keflavík Airport for the return flight.
Optional: Boat tour on the glacial lagoon.
DAY 10
Ísafjörður
Lakagígar
Eruption Site - Volcanic Craters
- Eldhraun Lava Field
A full day tour from Kirkjubæjarklaustur to the
area of Laki volcanic craters, famous for the
eruption in 1783, the largest eruptions since
the settlement of Iceland. The crater row is
25 km (15.5 mi.) long, and show spectacular
formations of red and black scoria and lava.
During the eruption a massive lava flow formed
the spectacular Eldhraun lava field, which is
the third largest on Earth since the last ice age.
Akureyri
Mývatn
4-6
Stykkishólmur
8
Reykjavík
1&11
7
Egilsstaðir
Höfn
2-3
Kirkjubæjarklaustur
9-10
Vestmanneyjar
Vík
Dinner and overnight in the Kirkjubæjarklaustur area.
www.icelandtravel.is
7
Volcano Study and
Green Energy Tour
Duration: 5 days / 4 nights
Operation: All year
Volcanoes have been an integral
part of the Icelanders’ way of life
since the time of settlement in
the late 9th Century. Without
their geothermal heat we wouldn’t
have the clean, alternative energy
resources that are used in today’s
modern Icelandic society. In this
study tour learn first-hand why
Iceland is one of the world’s leaders in green energy and sustainable development including an
exciting expedition to the world
famous Eyjafjallajökull volcano.
Our guides provide scientific
expertise and thorough local
knowledge. Evening lectures with
volcanologists and green energy
experts can also be arranged.
Volcanoes and geothermal energy
– an explosive combination!
DAY 1
Airport transfer via Blue Lagoon
Geothermal Lagoon - Viking Ship Replica Smithsonian Exhibition
After a welcome greet at Keflavík airport we
then begin our educational journey with a visit
to the Blue Lagoon, which is 100% powered
by Iceland’s clean geothermal energy. Enjoy
bathing and relaxing in Blue Lagoon geothermal seawater, known for its positive effects on
the skin. Blue Lagoon’s guests actually bathe
between two continents as the Eur-Asian and
American tectonic plates meet at the Blue
Lagoon. We stop there for approximately
one hour for a relaxing dip like no other. We
also visit Vikingaheimar museum which is
the home of the Viking Ship Íslendingur (The
Icelander). Built in 1996, The Icelander is an
exact replica of the famous Gokstad ship, a
remarkable archaeological find of an almost
completely intact Viking ship, excavated in
Norway in 1882. Vikingaheimar is also home to
the Viking Millennium Exhibition from by the
Smithsonian Institution.
Continue to Reykjavík, check in at the hotel.
Overnight in Reykjavík.
8
DAY 2
Þingvellir - Gullfoss - Geysir
- Fljótshlíð
National Park of Geological Wonders
(UNESCO) - Geothermal Area - Exploding
Geysers
Iceland is a country of enormous geological
interest because it straddles the Mid-Atlantic
Ridge where the European and North American
continental plates meet. We begin our day
at Þingvellir National Park where we can see
the rift caused by the meeting of these two
tectonic plates. We walk through the Almannagjá fault to the site of Alþingi, the world’s
oldest parliament that was established in 930.
We walk through a canyon to a waterfall and
a beautiful rift in the lava filled with crystal
clear water. After our geology walk in Þingvellir we visit one of Iceland’s most beautiful
waterfalls, Gullfoss (Golden Falls) as well as
the Geysir Geothermal Area teeming with hot
springs, exploding geysers and bubbling pools
of mud. Geysir is Iceland’s largest geyser and
lends its name to all others. Although Geysir is
less active these days, Strokkur spouts water
high into the air every few minutes. A truly
unique experience occurs up in the geothermal fields, where we sample rye bread, baked
underground by hot springs. We also visit a
greenhouse powered by geothermal and hydroelectric energy to sample organically grown
fruits and vegetables. Heading east through
small villages and farmlands to the majestic
mountains towering over the coast, we see the
snow shrouded Hekla volcano. Onwards to the
Hvolsvöllur area where we have a great view of
the world famous Eyjafjallajökull volcano. Dinner and overnight in the Hvolsvöllur area.
Optional: “Gufan”, a natural steam bath at
Laugarvatn set to open in June 2011.
DAY 3
South Shore
– Eyjafjallajökull Volcano
Volcanic Aftermath - Sea Cliffs with Puffin
Colony - Black Sand Beaches
We will spend this morning exploring the area
close to the towering strata volcano Eyjafjallajökull, which is probably the most famous
volcano in the world today. On March 20, 2010,
after being dormant for more than 180 years,
Eyjafjallajökull began spewing molten lava in
an uninhabited area in southwest Iceland. On
April 14, 2010, after a brief intermission, the
volcano resumed erupting from the top crater
in the center of the glacier causing flooding
which required an evacuation of 800 people.
Today the aftermath of the volcanic eruption can be clearly seen in Thorsmork Glacier
Valley, the natural oasis that lies just behind
the volcano. What was once a white glittering glacial cap is now covered by black ash
and the breathtaking glacial lagoon that was
once there now has completely washed away.
The sight of what the unbridled power of an
erupting volcano can do in a short time to its
surroundings is breathtaking and leaves visitors awestricken.
We drive past Dyrhólaey, a magnificent rocky
headland with sheer cliffs before stopping for
lunch in the charming village of Vík famous for
its volcanic black sand beaches. After the break
we head for the sea shore which is flanked by
steep bird cliffs rising above the black, wave
pounded sands. In the sea just outside the village of Vík are Reynisdrangar rocks - 66 meters
(215 feet) above sea level.
Dinner and overnight in the Hvolsvöllur area.
Optional: Þorvaldseyri Farm, located beneath
Eyjafjallajökull volcano. Meet with this local
farmer and learn about the devastation and
aftereffects the March 2010 eruption had on
his cattle and wheat farm. Peruse his portoflio
of spectacular before and after photographs
during an open Q & A session.
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DAY 4
Westman Islands.
Pompeii of the North - The Youngest
Place on Earth (UNESCO) - Geothermal
Power Plant
We ride by ferry (35 minutes) to the Westman Islands which are a group of 15 islands,
situated off the south coast of Iceland. On the
main island of Heimaey we explore exhibits
from the “Pompeii of the North” excavation
site aimed at restoring this tiny fishing village
buried in lava and ash from a massive 5-month
eruption in 1973. We also venture out to the
magnificent ocean cliffs, home to 10 million
puffins. Other sites include Eldborg volcano,
still warm from its latest eruption almost 40
years ago.
Iceland is very young, geologically speaking
and is still being created before your eyes with
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volcanic eruptions still going on today. On a
boat ride around the island we are treated with
a view of the newest land, Surtsey Island, also
known as “The Youngest Place on Earth.” Surtsey Island burst from the North Atlantic in a
dramatic ocean floor eruption in 1963. In 2008
it was named a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Iceland is the only Western country that
produces all its electricity from emission-free
and sustainable natural resources in the form
of geothermal and hydro-electric power. After
returning to the mainland we get an in-depth
enlightenment on how geothermal energy is
processed from hot water at the Hellisheiði
Power Station, located on an active volcanic
ridge. Our private, guided tour through the
plant also includes various multi-media presentations.
DAY 5
Departure
Transfer to Keflavík Airport for the return flight.
Ísafjörður
Akureyri
Mývatn
Stykkishólmur
Egilsstaðir
1&4
Reykjavík
Gullfoss
Höfn
Hvolsvöllur
2-3
Vestmanneyjar
Kirkjubæjarklaustur
Vík
Return to Reykjavík for dinner and overnight.
9
Scenic Hiking in South Iceland
Duration: 8 days / 7 nights.
Operation: June-August
Experience striking volcanic landscapes at a relaxed hiking pace in
the enchanting surroundings of
southwest Iceland. Breathe in our
fresh clean air and unveil Iceland’s
natural mysteries filled with lava
fields, exploding geysers, picturesque waterfalls, outdoor hot
springs and black sand beaches.
The Serenity Hiking tour is created
by Iceland Travel’s experienced
hiking enthusiasts and is set at a
difficulty level of easy to moderate,
including overnight stays in premium accommodations for maximum comfort.
DAY 1
Arrival
Welcome greet at Keflavík airport. Drive to
Reykjavík for check-in at the accommodation.
Overnight in Reykjavík.
DAY 2
Hveragerði - Hiking in
Reykjadalur Valley
Geothermal Village - Greenhouses - Hot
Springs with Bathing
Departure from Reykjavík to nearby Hveragerði
village, one of the few sites in the world located
directly on top of a geothermal area. We hike
from the hotel to the beautiful Reykjadalur valley. On our way we encounter hot springs and
see hot steam plumes rise from the ground. We
can take a dip in the Reykjadalsa River where
geothermally heated water meets fresh mountain streams, creating the perfect temperature
for bathing in untouched nature. (Don’t forget
your swimsuit!). After a relaxing break we hike
back to Hveragerði.
Dinner and overnight in the Hveragerði area.
DAY 3
Þingvellir - Gullfoss - Geysir
National Park with Geological Wonders
(UNESCO) - Exploding Geysers - Massive
Waterfall
Arriving at Þingvellir National Park we explore
the ancient parliament site, Alþingi, on the
shores of Iceland’s largest lake. We walk
through a canyon to a waterfall and a beautiful
rift in the lava filled with crystal clear water.
Þingvellir National Park dramatically reveals
the continental drift between the American
and Eurasian tectonic plates. We depart for the
Geysir Geothermal Area to see the great Geysir
as well as Strokkur, a hot spring that explodes
every few minutes. Onwards to Gullfoss one of
Iceland’s most impressive waterfalls.
Dinner and overnight in the Hveragerði area.
DAY 4
Vestmannaeyjar
Pompeii of the North – World’s Largest Puffin Colony – Eldborg Volcano
We ride by ferry to the Westman Islands which
are a group of 15 islands, situated off the
south coast of Iceland. On the main island of
Heimaey we explore exhibits from the “Pompeii
of the North” excavation site aimed at restoring this tiny fishing village buried in lava and
ash from a massive 5-month eruption in 1973.
We also venture out to the magnificent ocean
cliffs, home to 10 million puffins. Today’s hike
is to the top of Eldborg volcano, still warm from
its latest eruption almost 40 years ago, followed by a walk through the town.
Dinner and overnight in the Hveragerði area.
DAY 5
DAY 6
Free Day
Optional Tours: Hiking in the West Fjords /
Mt. Esja / Glacier Hiking
Overnight stay in Reykjavík
DAY 7
Krýsuvík - Blue Lagoon Reykjavik
Heiðmörk Nature Reserve
Half Day Hike
Geothermal Activity - Ocean Cliffs with
Birdlife - Blue Lagoon with Bathing
Conservation Area – Lush Woodlands –
Lava Fields
Driving along the south coast we arrive at
Krísuvík geothermal area with boiling mud
springs and multicolored steam holes. We
hike to the bird cliffs along the coastal area,
overlooking the North Atlantic Ocean from the
towering ocean cliffs. Here we can observe seabirds perform acrobatic stunts as they return
to their nesting areas. After the hike we drive
to the famous Blue Lagoon and enjoy a dip in
the pleasantly warm geothermal seawater, rich
in natural algae, silica and minerals that are
proven to have healing effects on the skin.
On the outskirts of Reykjavik lies the picturesque Heidmork Nature Reserve, known and
loved by locals for its lush woodlands and
beautiful wildflowers. Here we hike through the
stunning lava fields, formed by the fissures of
the Atlantic Ridge. The ancient lava formations
and vibrant green moss set the scene in this
beautifully vegetated landscape in which we
explore our environment and visit an ancient
sheep pen.
Overnight stay in Reykjavík
Overnight stay in Reykjavík
10
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Blue Ice – Ice Hiking on
Sólheimajökull Glacier
Glacier Hiking & Ice Climbing Day Tour from
Reykjavík to Sólheimajökull Glacier on
Iceland’s South Coast
DAY 8
Departure
Transfer to Keflavík Airport for the return flight.
We reserve the right to alter routes without
prior notice due to weather conditions.
Difficulty Level 1-2 Boots: 4-5 hours walking
per day and no more than 300 meters (980
feet) in height. Suitable for persons in average
physical condition.
Crossing a mountain, we enjoy spectacular
views across Ísafjarðardjúp bay to Drangajökull
glacier. Return by boat to Ísafjordur in the
evening.
Participation in this tour requires warm clothing, hiking boots and a lunch pack. Wading
boots are optional but it is also good to bring a
small towel.
OPTIONAL TOURS
ON DAY 6:
A moderate hike for people in good physical
condition. Fourteen kilometers (8.5 miles) in
distance, elevation of 330 meters (1080 feet)
on rough terrain. Lunch pack can be included
upon request. Overnight in Ísafjordur town and
morning return flight to Reykjavik in time for
the hike of the day. Minimum number of passengers for this tour: 4
Day Hike in Nature Reserves
in the West Fjords
Mt. Esja - Hiking on Reykjavik
City Mountain (5-7 hours)
Flight to Isafjördur town - Boat Tour - Hiking 6 hours and Accommodation for 1 Night
in Isafjörður (Total 24 hours)
All Reykjavik citizens dream of climbing
Esja some day and tens of thousands make
that dream come true every year.
Since 1974 the flora and fauna in northwest
Iceland have been protected and now arctic
foxes, birds, seals and plants thrive there
undisturbed. We fly from Reykjavík to Ísafjordur, then travel by boat to the abandoned
village of Sæból in Aðalvík and continue on
foot to the abandoned settlement at Hesteyri.
We take it nice and easy on our way up the
mountain and enjoy the climb with many stops
along the way. To reach the top we have to
ascend some cliffs. On top of Mt. Esja we take
in the amazing the view before we head back
down again.
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Sólheimajökull glacial tongue is a magnificent,
rugged, raw and ever changing hub of ancient
frozen water. We explore the crevasse riddled
outlet glacier with its amazing ice formations,
sink holes and jagged ridges accompanied by
an experienced glacier guide. Along the way
we try our hand at climbing an ice wall. All
required tools are provided: ice axes, crampons
and safety lines. On this tour you get to see
and do what most people only dream about
andÍsafjörður
very few will ever try. Why not be adventurous and explore the amazing and ancient
glacier?
Akureyri
Difficulty Level: 2 Boots
Mýva
Stykkishólmur
Reykjavík
1,5,6&7
Grindavík
2-3-4
Hveragerði
Kirkjubæja
Vestmanneyjar
Vík
Difficulty Level: 2 Boots
11
Vikings, Sagas & Folklore
– A Cultural Journey
Duration: 8 days / 7 nights.
Operation: June – September
Viking heritage is intrinsically
woven into the fabric of Icelandic
culture and the Sagas which recount
early Viking voyages form the foundation of the Icelandic literary tradition. Take a walk through history
experiencing the epic tales of heroic
deeds in the actual the settings
where the stories take place with
Iceland’s breathtaking nature providing the backdrop for our cultural
journey. Learn Icelandic folklore and
our fascination with elves and the
mystical “hidden people.”
DAY 1
Arrival
Welcome greet at Keflavík airport. Drive to
Reykjavík for check-in at the accommodation.
Dinner at the historic site of Viðeyjarstofa.
Overnight in Reykjavík.
DAY 2
Reykjavík City Sightseeing
President’s Residence - Saga Museum
- Saga Manuscripts
We begin with a short drive to Bessastaðir,
the official residence of Iceland’s President.
We stop at Perlan, which is situated on top of
hot water storage tanks from where we enjoy
fantastic panoramic views of the city. There
we also explore the Saga Museum, where the
Icelandic Sagas come to life through narrations and detailed wax figures in their historic
surroundings. Then onto the old part of town
where we visit Hallgrímskirkja church whose
high steeple is a landmark visible from all over
the city and beyond. In the city center we see
the Icelandic Parliament which houses the
world’s oldest legislative assembly. We also see
City Hall the Lutheran and Catholic cathedrals
as well as the bustling harbor area. Our last
stop will be at the Culture House to see the old
manuscripts of the Icelandic Sagas
Overnight in Reykjavík.
12
DAY 3
DAY 4
Þingvellir - Kaldidalur Borgarfjörður
Laugar - Eiríksstaðir - Þingeyri Hvammstangi - Varmahlíð
Halldór Laxness - World’s Oldest
Parliament (UNESCO) - Settlement
Center - Saga of Egill
Home of Leif Eiriksson - Elf Folklore
- Saga of Laxdæla
We leave the city and our first stop will be
at Gljúfrasteinn, the home and workplace of
Halldór Laxness (winner of the Nobel Prize
for Literature in 1955) for more than half a
century. It has been opened to the public as a
museum, unchanged from when Laxness lived
there. Onwards to Þingvellir, a National Park
and former site of the world’s oldest parliament. We walk through the stunning natural
beauty of this ancient historic site that is
also full of geological wonders. We cross the
mountain pass Kaldidalur and witness the rugged beauty of the Icelandic highlands before
arriving in the fertile valley of Borgarfjörður.
We stop at the picturesque Hraunfossar
and Barnafoss waterfalls before heading to
Reykholt, home of Snorri Sturluson, the eminent 13th century scholar, politician and Saga
author. We drive to Borg Farm, the birthplace
of Egill Skallagrímsson, Iceland’s most famous
Viking poet from the Saga of Egill. Our last
stop of the day is at the Icelandic Settlement
center in Borgarnes for the exhibition of Egill
Skallagrímsson.
Dinner and overnight in the Borgarnes area.
From Borgarnes we drive northwards to the
fertile farmlands of Búðardalur. We visit
Eiríksstaðir, the original home of Erik the Red
and birthplace of his son Leif Eiriksson, two
of the most celebrated Vikings in the world.
At this living history museum replica and
archeological site you experience the places,
artifacts, and activities that authentically
represent the Sagas and Vikings of the past.
A short drive down the road to brings us to
Leifssafn Museum and the Vineland Exhibit
of Leif Eiriksson with scientifically verified
tools and artifacts from the Viking Age. The
Dalabyggð region is enchanting and magical, with its countless stories of elves, ghosts
and sorcerers. The “Elf Colony” in the rock at
Tungustapi is the setting for one of Iceland’s
most-loved folktales but it is also the heart
of the Laxdælasaga, one of Iceland’s historic
Sagas. We drive via Laxárdalsheiði heath, along
Vatnsnes peninsula to enjoy the extraordinary
rock formation of Hvítserkur and hopefully spot
some seals enjoying the scenery. We stop at
the small church of Þingeyri, the former site of
the first monastery established in Iceland in
the early 12th century.
Dinner and overnight in the Varmahlíð area.
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DAY 7
Hvolsvöllur - Vík - Reykjavík
Saga of Njál - Saga Center - Black Sand
Beaches
We drive through an area of rich farmlands and
majestic mountains, to the scene of the Saga
of Njál, one of Iceland’s most famous works
of medieval literature. On a clear day we may
see the famous, still active Hekla volcano. We
visit the Saga Center in Hvolsvöllur, and learn
first-hand about the world of mythology, ocean
voyages, and the discovery of new lands. The
road leads us to the thundering waterfalls
of Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss, displaying
seductive scenery and giving us the chance
of getting close to the forces of nature. In the
cliffs above the waterfalls we may see Fulmars
nesting in the summer season. We continue
to the Reynisdrangar rock formations and the
village of Vík, surrounded by beautiful and
impressive high bird cliffs and unique black
sand beaches. We drive back to Reykjavík in
the afternoon.
Overnight in Reykjavík.
DAY 8
Departure
Transfer to Keflavík Airport for the return flight
DAY 5
Varmahlíð - Glaumbær Folk
Museum - Sauðárkrókur - Hólar Siglufjörður
Saga of Grettir - Herring Heritage
We begin with a morning visit to the Glaumbær Regional History Museum and the old
church at Víðimýri, considered to be an
outstanding example and keepsake of Icelandic
architecture. Onwards to Hólar, an important
historical site in Iceland as a bishopric and is
still today a respected learning center . Hólar
played an important role in the medieval
politics of Iceland. We visit the beautiful 18th
century church and the archaeological site. We
drive along the coast to Hofsós and enjoy an
excellent view of majestic Drangey Island, soaring 150 meters (500 feet) out of the ocean,
with steep cliffs surrounding. This is where
the great Icelandic outlaw, Grettir the Strong
met his destiny in the 10th century. We stop
at Hofsós for a glimpse into the difficult past
conditions of ancient Icelandic fishermen. We
visit the Icelandic Emigration Center dedicated to commemorate Icelandic emigrants
to North America. We head on to Siglufjörður,
an isolated fishing village nestled in steep
mountains and an open fjord. Siglufjörður was
the capital of the herring industry in its heyday
during the bountiful herring years of 1905 1965 also known as the “Icelandic gold rush”.
We visit the Herring Industry Museum where
instruments of days gone by are kept in perfect
working order.
DAY 6
Kjölur - Geysir - Gullfoss
- Skálholt
Sigluörður
Ísafjörður
Uninhabited Highlands - Geothermal Area
- Outlaw Country
Today we travel the highland track Kjölur, a legendary route mentioned in the Sagas. We stop
at the geothermal site of Hveravellir and take
a short walk to the natural warm pool and hot
springs with colorful silica deposits. This area
is a famous former outlaw refuge in ancient
times, where their ghosts can still be seen as
shadows moving across the desert. We drive
onwards to the great Geysir area with boiling
mud craters and erupting hot springs including
Strokkur, which spouts every few minutes.
Close by is Gullfoss, considered by many to be
Iceland’s finest waterfall. We travel onwards
to Skálholt bishopric, an important historic,
cultural and political center until the year 1785.
In addition to the bishop’s office, there is also a
cathedral, school, smithy and a monastery.
4&5
Varmahlíð
Stykkishólmur
Borgarnes
1,2,7&8
Reykjavík
Akureyri
Mývatn
Egilsstaðir
3
Flúðir
Höfn
6
Kirkjubæjarklaustur
Vestmanneyjar
Vík
Dinner and overnight in the Flúðir area.
Dinner and overnight in the Varmahlíð area.
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13
Iceland for Golf Lovers
Duration: 8 days / 7 nights.
Operation: May – September
Golfing in Iceland is an unforgettable experience even for the most,
steep cliffs, black sand beaches,
sublime mountain peaks, majestic
ocean views, fertile salmon rivers
and lush green countrysides provide a wealth of eye candy in terms
of scenery. There are over 64 golf
courses located throughout Iceland
which follow the countours of the
naturally dramatic environment.
DAY 1
DAY 3
DAY 4
Arrival
Þingvellir - Grímsnes - Flúðir
Gullfoss - Geysir - Laugavatn
Welcome greet at Keflavík airport. Drive to
Reykjavík for check-in at the accommodation.
National Park of Geothermal Wonders
(UNESCO) - Fertile Farmlands - Salmon
River
Massive Waterfall - Exploding Geysers Natural Hot Springs with Bathing
Overnight in Reykjavík.
DAY 2
Reykjanes Peninsula
Geothermal Area - Blue Lagoon with Bathing
The first day of golfing is dedicated to the
geothermal area of the Reykjanes Peninsula
(30-40 min. drive from Reykjavik). After a
rewarding day of golf at the Holmsvollur Course
in volcanic landscapes we indulge in a relazing
dip at the famous Blue Lagoon. The lagoon is a
unique wonder of nature with pleasantly warm
mineral-rich geothermal water in a middle of
a black lava field. The high natural levels of
silica and minerals give the Lagoon its rich blue
color. The facilities include modern changing
rooms and showers, spa therpay treatmenst
and massages, an outdoor geothermal pool,
restaurants and shopping.
Overnight in Reykjavik.
Today we head outside of Reykjavík to Iceland’s
scenic south shore. The group will visit Þingvellir National Park, the very place where the
first settlers held their annual parliamentary
assembly and where the earth is ever so slowly
pulling Iceland apart along tectonic plates.
From Þingvellir we head towards the Kidjaberg
golf course located approximately 40 minutes
from Þingvellir.
After playing 18 holes of golf we head to Fludir
where the group will overnight for the next
three nights.
Dinner and overnight at a hotel in the Flúðir
area.
Kidjaberg Golf Course - 18 hole par 71:
The course is set in a picturesque landscape
between the river Hvitá and Lake Hestvatn.
The fairways are placed by the river Hvítá and
the course is renowned for its beautiful and
interesting surroundings.
This day the group will go see the Gullfoss
waterfall, the queen of Iceland’s waterfalls,
which is considered by many to be the most
impressive in the country. Then we stop at the
world-famous Geysir area, a geothermal field
where hot springs are in abundance, geysers
explode and pools of mud bubble. We stop for
an invigorating round of golf at the nearby
Geysir Golf Course where the natural landscape
is used at it’s fullest. After playing 9 holes we
travel to the nearby Laugarvatn Gufan outdoor
natural hots springs for a relaxing dip.
Dinner and overnight in the Flúðir area.
Geysir Golf Course - 9 hole par 74: Geysir Golf
Course is adjacent to The Great Geysir, the world
renowned hot spring and Iceland’s most popular
tourist attraction. The golf course has nine holes
and a driving range, meandering around and
between summer cottages. The course area
is L-shaped, with the holes routed in an out-in
fashion similar to the Old Course at St. Andrews.
Leiran / Holmsvollur Golf Course - 18 hole
par 72: This golf course is located on the seaside at the Reykjanes peninsula and also offers
a 9 hole training course (The Joel). The course
is easy to walk but has a few water hazards and
the famous 3rd hole “Bergvik” is a challenge.
A driving range and putting green are located
near the clubhouse.
14
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DAY 5
DAY 6
The Westman Islands
Þorlákshöfn
The Youngest Place on Earth (UNESCO)
- World’s Largest Puffin Colony
Fertile Farmlands - Black Sand Beaches
- Viking Horses
We ride by ferry (35 minutes) to the Westman
Islands which are a group of 15 islands, situated off the south coast of Iceland. The Westman Islands have a rich history as the island of
Heimaey was struck by a volcanic eruption in
1973 and all the inhabitants had to be immediately evacuated. We enjoy a round of golf
on the only inhabited island called Heimaey.
The golf course there is considered by most to
be the most beautiful in Iceland. Afterwards
we enjoy a boat ride around the island and are
treated with a view of the newest land, Surtsey
Island, also known as “The Youngest Place on
Earth.” Surtsey Island burst from the North
Atlantic in a dramatic ocean floor eruption in
1963. Other sights include the volcanic crater,
Eldfell, as well as the world’s largest puffin
colony. Return back in the afternoon.
We begin the day with a magnificent display of
the Viking horse with an optional riding tour.
When Vikings arrived in Iceland a thousand
years ago, they brought the Viking horse with
them. Strong and muscular, yet small and gentle, with great stamina, speed and intelligence,
they are the perfect riding companions for handling the rough Icelandic terrain. Afterwards
we travel to Þorlákshöfn Golf Course. In the late
afternoon we return to Reykjavík.
Dinner and overnight in the Fludir area.
Westman Islands Golf Course - 18 hole par 70:
This golf course is very unusual because of
its location in Herjolfsdalur Valley, stretching
all the way to the steep ocean cliffs. The Golf
Course is located on the outskirts of town on
and tee-off is against a backdrop of volcanic
walls, changing wind directions as well as the
thunderous ocean. The course has a reputation
for having the best greens in the country.
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Overnight in Reykjavík.
Þorlákshöfn Golf Course - 18 hole par 72:
The course lies along the shore on black sandy
beaches and it represents the best example of
a links course in Iceland. Located by the seaside near the village of Þorlákshöfn, the course
has sand-hills, small lakes, ponds, as well as a
driving range.
DAY 7
Reykjavík Golf & City
Sightseeing
Reykjavík is a modern city with a wide range of
restaurants, museums, galleries and theaters.
On our tour we explore the old town center,
Parliament, the National Museum, the Pearl
(Perlan), and the bustling harbor area, to name
a few. Our drive continues past Reykjavik’s
largest outdoor swimming pool in Laugardalur,
which is heated with water from natural hot
springs under the city. We also stop at the
Ásmundur Sveinsson Sculpture museum and
Hallgrímskirkja Church whose high steeple
is a landmark visible from all over the city
and beyond. Afterwards we play golf at the
Grafarholt golf course, the oldest 18-hole golf
course in Iceland. Overnight in Reykjavík.
Grafarholt Golf Course - 18 hole par 71: At this
course designed Nils Skold, no two holes are
alike. The course is also recognized as Iceland’s
premier championship venue and has hosted
many European and Nordic tournaments.
The course designer used the existing rugged
and varied landscape to produce arguably the
toughest championship golf course in Iceland
with fairways aligned with lava and heather
requiring the golfer to use his imagination if he
wants to turn in a good score.
DAY 8
Departure
Transfer to Keflavík Airport for the return flight
Ísafjörður
Akureyri
Mývatn
Stykkishólmur
Egilsstaðir
1,2,6&7
Reykjavík
3-5
Grindavík Þorlákshöfn
Höfn
Hella
Vestmanneyjar
Kirkjubæjarklaustur
Vík
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Reykjavík City Breaks
Iceland Travel offers a variety
of themed Reykjavík City breaks
for groups. Whether you want to
relax and recharge the batteries,
get active, cultural, or perhaps a
bit of everything - our sample city
programs are packed with exciting
choices.
DAY 1
Arrival
Welcome greet at Keflavík airport. Drive to
Reykjavík for check-in at the accommodation.
Overnight in Reykjavík
DAY 2
DAY 3
DAY 4
Reykjavík City Sightseeing
The Golden Circle
Departure
Reykjavík is a modern city with a wide range
of restaurants, museums, galleries and
theaters. On our tour we explore the old town
center, Parliament, the National Museum,
the Pearl (Perlan), and the bustling harbor
area, to name a few. Our drive continues past
Reykjavik’s largest outdoor swimming pool in
Laugardalur, which is heated with water from
natural hot springs under the city. We also
stop at the Ásmundur Sveinsson Sculpture
museum and Hallgrímskirkja Church whose
high steeple is a landmark visible from all over
the city and beyond.The tour ends at hotel or
in the city center.
A morning drive over Hellisheiði plateau,
passing Hveragerði and further on to Gullfoss
(Golden Falls), one of the most impressive
waterfalls in Europe. Only a few minutes drive
down the road is the famous Geysir which
has given name to geysers all over the world.
Onwards to Þingvellir National Park, a remarkable geological site and the most historic site on
the island. Þingvellir is where the world’s oldest
democratic parliament was founded in 930.
From Þingvellir we travel over Mosfellsheiði
plateau back to Reykjavík.
Transfer to Keflavík Airport for the return flight.
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FOCUS OPTIONS
TO ENHANCE YOUR
PROGRAM
WELLNESS FOCUS:
Iceland is an ideal destination for
those seeking a relaxing and rejuvenating travel experience. The
country is rich in natural resources,
originating from the underground
geothermal heat, which sets the
perfect scene for a wellness vacation. Natural hot springs and pools
create the purest spa experience
available. The country also boasts
the one-of-a-kind Blue Lagoon,
providing an essential part of any
wellness vacation in Iceland.
DAY 2
Afternoon: Pampered at Laugar
Health and Spa
Relax in the aquatic heaven of Laugar Spa, a
luxury health and spa resort situated in the
Laugardalur valley. You can indulge both body
and soul in six different saunas and steam
rooms and try out the Jacuzzis with hot and
cold subterranean sea water. Last but not least
enjoy the relaxation room equipped with comfortable chairs and a centrally located fireplace.
ACTIVITY FOCUS:
Iceland has adventure for everyone! Discover your inner Viking
with activities that challenge the
mighty forces of nature, refresh
the spirit and invigrate the soul.
DAY 2
Afternoon: Whale Watching
Take part in an adventure at sea with an
unforgettable tour into the world of whales.
Winter or summer, the bay can be full of
surprises. This journey brings you up close to
whales and birds in their natural habitat. The
types of whales commonly sighted include
white‐beaked dolphins, harbor porpoises, minke
whales and humpback whales. Duration of
boat tour is about 3 hours. This tour is weather
dependant.
DAY 3
DAY 1
On the way to Reykjavík:
A warm welcome at the
Blue lagoon
The Lagoon is a unique wonder of nature; a
lagoon with pleasantly warm mineral-rich geothermal water in a middle of a black lava field.
A visit to the Blue Lagoon is both invigorating
and exiting whether one bathes there surrounded by snow in the middle of the winter or
in the long summer daylight.
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During the Golden Circle:
Quad biking
Amazing scenery that will take your breath
away. Magnificent mountains, lava fields,
raw nature, dirt and often wet weather: the
extreme off-road conditions you have always
dreamed of. Raw nature is our playground.
Tracks that guarantee lots of fun for everyone.
Duration of biking: about 1 hour / 2 persons
per bike.
From May through September Quad Biking can
be replaced with River Rafting.
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Build
Your own
City Break
One of the most magnificent
aspects of Reykjavik is that it is
only 30 minutes from some of
Iceland’s most impressive nature
and exciting activities. “Build Your
Own City Break “ is open to your
inspiration whether it is to go
riding on a Viking horse through
a rugged lava field, fishing in a
nearby lake, bathing in geothermal
waters or exploring the serious
shopping scene of Reykjavik’s
charming city streets. Peruse our
selection of day tours to create
your ideal Reykjavik City Break.
COACH
TOURS
SUPER JEEP
TOURS
The Golden Circle
Essential Iceland
All year
All Year
This has been the most popular tour for years
and for a good reason. The Golden Circle will
take you to the Þingvellir National Park, a
UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Gullfoss
waterfall as well as the famous Geysir geothermal area where hot springs and geysers are
abundant. These three highlights of Iceland are
wonders of nature as well as sites of historical
significance.
Start the day by driving to Þingvellir National
Park, site of the ancient Viking parliament.
Then proceed through the barren mountain
pass of Kaldidalur (the Cold Valley) to the glacier Langjökull, where we deflate our monster
size tires and take our super jeeps for a ride
on the glacier. From Langjökull we continue
to Hallmundarhraun, a lava area where one of
Iceland’s largest, longest and most spectacular lava caves can be found. After caving, the
group will continue down the Borgarfjörður
valley and visit the waterfalls of Hraunfossar
and Barnafoss, and pass the historic site of
Reykholt and Europe’s largest hot spring, Deildatunguhver, before returning to Reykjavik.
Relax at the Blue Lagoon
All year
The Blue Lagoon is not to be missed while you
are in Iceland. This tour offers the ideal way
to visit the Blue Lagoon and enjoy a peaceful
time. Scheduled departures back to Reykjavik
are flexible making it possible to enjoy the
lagoon on your own time.
South Shore Adventure
All year
This tour is ideal for nature lovers of all kinds.
Experience standing behind the plummeting
waterfall Seljalandsfoss, observe the beautiful and famous Skógafoss, take a walk along a
black sandy beach near to Vik and Reynisdrangar, and feel the amazing power of a glacier all
in one day (depending on road conditions).
Mt. Hekla and
Landmannalaugar tour
15. June – 31. October
This is a unique tour through some very rugged
terrain in the southern highlands. We drive
through unforgettable landscape with surreal
beauty, steaming hot springs, explosive craters
and an amazing range of colors on some of Iceland’s most spectacular jeep tracks. To top off
the day, we visit Landmannalaugar, where it is
possible to have a warm bath in a natural pool.
Don´t forget to bring a towel and swim suit.
Saga Circle
All year
The Icelandic Sagas are known throughout the
world. This tour takes you to the settings of
the most famous events in Icelandic history.
On route we will see the spectacular waterfalls
Barnafoss and Hraunfossar. The tour commences at the Icelandic Settlement centre
in Borgarnes. From there we will follow the
footsteps of various Viking warriors.
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ACTIVITY
TOURS
FLIGHT
TOURS
Whale watching from Reykjavik
Akureyri – Lake Mývatn
All year
All year from Reykjavik
Domestic Airport
Whale watching tours are scheduled all year
round from the Old harbor in Reykjavik. Take
part in an adventure at sea with an unforgettable trip into the world of whales and sea birds.
The various types of whales commonly sighted
include minke whales, white-beaked dolphins,
harbor porpoises, and the popular humpback
whales. The trip passes several islands inhabited by colonies of puffins – an excellent photo
opportunity.
Lava Riding tour
All year
This tour offers an adventurous ride through
the lava fields around Mt. Helgafell or Lake
Hvaleyrarvatn. Here you can view rough lava
fields and look for different formations in the
lava, maybe you will be able to spot a troll or
two. The beautiful Bláfjöll mountains tower
above on the horizon. Riders of all experience
levels can participate in this tour.
River fun Rafting in Hvítá
May – September
The Hvítá river is approximately and 1 hour
and 30 minutes from Reykjavik. The river has
a perfectly balanced mix of serene canyons
and adrenaline pumping waves and rapids. On
the way down the river we pass through the
magnificent and scenic Brúarhlöð canyon and
in that stunning setting participants have the
option of jumping from a cliff into the river.
Who can resist going glacier river swimming
in Iceland? And not to mention relaxing in the
saunas or hot-tubs after a day of adventure!
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This popular tour introduces you to the North
of Iceland, only a few kilometers from the Arctic
Circle. Once in Akureyri we enjoy a guided bus
tour of the Lake Mývatn area, famous for its
rich flora, fauna and spectacular lava formations. Other amazing sites visited are pseudocraters, waterfalls, geothermal hot springs and
bubbling sulphur mud pools.
EVENING
TOURS
The sun never sets on fun in the sparkling city
of Reykjavik wether in the perpetual daylight
of summer or under the wintry wonders of the
Northern Lights. Iceland Travel provides a wide
variety of guided evening excursion options
including Northern Lights & Lobster, Whale
Watching Cruises, Midnight Golf, Evening City
Sightseeing, Pub Crawls and more.
More tours availabe upon request.
Historical Tour of
The Westman Islands
All year from Reykjavik Domestic Airport
(Loftleidir Hotel side)
The Westman Islands are a group of 15 islands
and 30 skerries about 10 km off the south
coast of Iceland. After a short flight to Heimaey
Island, enjoy a guided coach tour, where you
will view a volcanic crater, still-warm lava and
half-buried houses from the island’s infamous
1973 volcanic eruption. You will spot some of
the most interesting features of the island,
where nature has sculpted a fascinating landscape teeming with diverse bird and animal
life, including the world’s largest puffin colony.
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Greenland
& Inuit Exploration
Duration: 4 days / 3 nights.
Operation: June - August
Extend your adventure by visiting Greenland, the largest island
on Earth. Here the the inhabitants
possess more than 30 different
words to describe snow and visitors
can enjoy a travel experience truly
out of the ordinary. Experience
the spectacular scenery of this
beautiful arctic country, so rich in
contrasts and filled with wonderful
opportunities for all visitors.
DAY 1
Ilulissat - UNESCO World
Heritage Site
Fly to Ilulissat from Reykjavik and arrive around
noon to this picturesque town. It has a beautiful location at the mouth of a long ice fjord,
filled with enormous icebergs from the most
productive glacier in the northern hemisphere.
After check-in, enjoy a walking tour in the
center of town with your local guide.
Overnight in Ilulissat.
DAY 2
DAY 3
Boat Tour to Eqi Glacier
Optional Tours and Travel Day
Very few places in Greenland are as beautiful
as the Eqi glacier, which descends into a fiord
north of Ilulissat. We sail to the glacier’s edge
which rises 260-300 feet above the surface of
the ocean. While enjoying lunch on board the
boat, we observe as enormous chunks of heavy
ice break off the glacier tumble thunderously
into the sea. The sights and sounds of these
intense crashes are explosive and impressive.
Overnight in Ilulissat.
Morning at your leisure.
Optional excursions :
A boat tour to view the icebergs or a helicopter
flight above the ice fjord.
Visit the museum in the town or use the time
to do any final shopping for tupilak idols or
other native handicrafts.
In the morning, hike to the remains of the old
Sermermiut settlement, which is situated
by the ice fjord. Learn Greenlandic history
and customs before the arrival of European
explorers, and enjoy incredible views of floating
mammoth icebergs in the fjord.
Transfer to the airport in Ilulissat and flight
to Reykjavik, followed by a transfer to Hotel.
Overnight in Reykjavik.
DAY 4
Departure
Transfer to Keflavík Airport for the return flight
A note about travel to Greenland
Greenland offers a somewhat different type of
travel experience than you might expect. Its
remote location and island status means that
virtually all items must be imported; hence,
even everyday items cost more than they do
even in Iceland or Denmark (which Greenland
is a part of). Also, accommodations tend to
be small in size (again, because of high cost
of importing building materials), and service often is more relaxed than you will find
elsewhere. Still, Greenland is a fascinating and
breathtaking destination, and we’re confident
that its amazing natural wonders will mitigate
any minor inconveniences you may experience
during your stay.
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Practical Information
Season and Climate
Credit cards
Insurance and health care
The Icelandic climate is warmer than the name
suggests, thanks to the Gulf Stream. Summers
in Iceland are rather cool, while the winters are
relatively warm. During the summer the climate
is mild but variable with possible rain and frequent weather changes.
Credit cards are widely used and accepted by
most shops, restaurants and organizations. The
major credit cards accepted in Iceland are Visa,
Master Card and Eurocard, although other cards
are accepted as well in some places.
Please note that individual travel insurance is not
included in the tour price. It is therefore important that clients arrange for their own travel
insurance before visiting Iceland. Quality medical
assistance and health care are readily available
throughout Iceland.
Business hours
Tax free shopping/tax refund
Banks are open from 09:15 to 16:00. As a general rule offices are open from 09:00 to 17:00,
in some cases during the summer these hours
are from 08:00 to 16:00. Shops are open from
09:00 to 18:00 on weekdays. Kringlan and
Smáralind shopping malls as well as souvenir
and some bookshops in the city center are open
on weekends.
A refund of the local Value Added Tax is available
to visitors in Iceland. The refund will result in a
reduction of up to 15% of the retail price, provided
departure from Iceland is within 30 days after
the purchase is made. The purchased amount
must be no less than ISK 4.000,- (VAT included)
per sales receipt, and all goods (except woollens)
must be packed in sealed bags or containers.
Average Temperatures in Celsius (centigrade):
Jan.
Feb.
Mar.
Apr
May
Jun.
Jul.
Aug.
Sep.
Oct.
Nov.
Dec.
Reykjavik
-0.5
0.4
0.5
2.9
6.3
9.0
10.6
10.3
7.4
4.4
1.1
-0.2
Akureyri
-2.2
-1.5
-1.3
1.6
5.5
9.1
10.5
10.0
6.3
3.0
-0.4
-1.9
Apr
May
Jun.
Jul.
Aug.
Sep.
Oct.
Nov.
Dec.
Average Temperatures in Farenhite:
Jan.
Feb.
Mar.
Reykjavik
33
32
33
37
43
48
51
50
45
40
34
32
Akureyri
36
35
34
35
42
48
51
50
43
37
32
35
Jan.
Feb.
Mar.
Apr.
May
Jun.
Jul.
Aug.
Sep.
Oct.
Nov.
Dec.
Sunrise and Sunset:
Reykjavik Sunrise
11:19
09:55
08:21
06:42
04:39
03:15
03:07
04:50
06:16
07:36
09:24
10:51
Reykjavik Sunset
15:44
17:29
18:59
20:22
22:12
23:39
23:55
22:15
20:37
18:57
16:58
15:44
Akureyri Sunrise
11:31
09:51
08:09
06:23
04:09
02:22
02:02
04:20
05:55
07:22
09:19
10:59
Akureyri Sunset
15:01
17:03
18:40
20:11
22:12
24:03
24:27
22:14
20:26
18:40
16:32
15:05
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21
Booking and General Conditions
Terms of Payment
A nonrefundable deposit of 10%, of the total
package price should reach Iceland Travel 8
weeks prior to arrival. Iceland Travel will send a
proforma invoice for groups for full payment, 6
weeks prior to arrival. Full payment (less deposit)
for groups and individuals shall reach Iceland
Travel at least 4 weeks prior to arrival of clients
or upon confirmation of booking if done within
4 weeks. In case of further delay on payments,
Iceland Travel will reserve the right to treat the
booking as a cancellation and withdraw its confirmation of services.
For large group bookings of more than 50 rooms,
IT may require a 10% deposit for the accommodation which is nonrefundable if the group is
cancelled less than 6 months prior to arrival.
If payment is done by credit or charge card, IT
accepts Visa, Mastercard and American Express.
American Express charges IT a 3.8% handling fee
and we regretfully have to pass this fee on to our
clients, this fee applies to the total invoice.
Rooming Lists
Cancellation Charges
Time of cancellation of individuals within a group:
none
More than 3 weeks prior to arrival Less than 3 weeks and more than 2 weeks
10%
Less than 2 weeks and more than 1 week
25%
Less than 1 week and more than 72 hours 50%
75%
Less than 72 hours and more than 24 hours
100%
Less than 24 hours notice Time of cancellation (Groups (10+ ):
For large groups (=50 rooms) more than 6 months 10% (of accommodation)
More than 8 weeks prior to arrival none
Less than 8 weeks and more than 4 weeks
10%
Less than 4 weeks and more than 1 week
50%
Less than 1 week and more than 72 hours
Less than 72 hours 75%
100%
Please note that cancellation of one or more passengers within a group may cause a price increase for
the group or a cancellation fee according to above rules for those cancelled passengers.
Cancellation terms may be stricter than stated above when dealing with conferences and large groups.
A preliminary rooming list must be received no
later than 8 weeks prior to the client’s arrival,
and a final rooming list at least 4 weeks prior to
client’s arrival.
If a service which has unconditionally been confirmed is cancelled by Iceland Travel, for example due
to insufficient participation, cancellations must be made with at least 4 weeks’ notice on IT’s behalf.
IT shall make every effort to provide similar alternative arrangements without additional cost to the
buyer. Should those alternatives not be to the buyer’s satisfaction, a full refund shall be made to the
amount paid.
Validity of Prices
LIABILITY
All rates quoted or shown in our tariffs are based
on current purchasing prices in Iceland. Iceland Travel reserves the right to increase prices
already quoted or published in our price lists
without notice in the event of currency fluctuation, government taxes, or due to any other cost
increases that are outside IT’s control.
Iceland Travel disclaims responsibility for any loss, damage, accidents, sickness or changes in schedules caused by weather, strikes or any other irregularity outside Iceland Travel’s control. Iceland Travel
reserves the right to alter routes, itineraries or departure times, without prior notice, should the necessity arise. In case of any changes in flights (domestic and international), the passenger has to pay any
additional cost caused by this, at the time the service is provided (extra hotel nights, meals, transfers
etc). We advise all clients to have insurance, as clients are on their own responsibility on optional
tours, such as riding tours and snow scooter tours.
Any eventual changes in rates will not be made
with less then 8 weeks’ notice prior to arrival.
All complaints must reach Iceland Travel within 5 days from departure from Iceland. Otherwise possible compensation is not valid.
After the invoice has been issued the price is
guaranteed against any surcharge, unless an
increase is due to government laws or currency
changes. IT will absorb an amount equivalent to
5% of the package price. Amounts that exceed
the 5% will be charged and clients will be entitled to cancel their booking with a full refund if
the surcharge exceeds 10%.
All information in the brochure is subject to change. Iceland Travel reserves the right to alter / change
/ correct mistakes that may possibly appear in the brochure or price list.
The brochure may not be reproduced elsewhere in whole or in part without the permission of publisher.
Cancellation
All cancellations must be made by letter, fax or
e-mail. In conformity with business practices
within the Icelandic travel industry, the Travel
Agent is obliged to charge cancellation fees to
passenger(s) as follows:
Published: September 2010
Valid from: September 2010
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DESIGN: THE ICELANDIC AD AGENCY • PRINTING: LITRÓF
Iceland Travel
Skútuvogur 13A
104 Reykjavík | Iceland
Tel +354 585 4300
Fax +354 585 4390
www.icelandtravel.is