7 day winter adventure

Auður Ösp
Owner, blogger and Iceland expert
I Heart Reykjavík
+354-511-5522
http://www.iheartreykjavik.net
[email protected]
7 day winter adventure
173.480 ISK (+ADMISSION TO THE BLUE LAGOON)
Hi fellow traveler,
We've put together this itinerary to help travelers like yourself to make the most of
your time in Iceland. We chose torus that offer great value for money and allow
you to hit the ground running. The tours have smaller groups sizes and combine
various activities into an action packed seven day itinerary.
The prices are in Icelandic krónur and are thought as an indicator of what an
itinerary like this will cost. The final price depends on the availability of tours and
the prices on the date of booking.
The ice cave tour included on the 2 day tour around the south coast is available
from November onward. If you are traveling earlier than that we do recommend a
similar tour where you do an glacier hike instead of an ice cave tour.
We've put a lot of love and effort into this and we hope you'll consider
booking your tours though us. We make a small commission of everything we
book for you but you don't pay anything extra.
This small commission allows us to carry on providing excellent, relevant and free
travel advice for you and everyone else traveling to Iceland through our blog.
For added convenience you will also pay for everything in one payment and you'll
have all your travel documents in one place. If you want, we can also get you in
touch with other solo travelers that are booking with us at the same time to get to
know them before your trip.
If you have more days in Iceland, or if you want to do some changes to this
itinerary to make it more "you" - we would be more than happy to help you with
that. Just send us and e-mail and we'll get right on it.
Love from Reykjavík
Auður
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TRIP SUMMARY
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Day 1: Exploring Reykjavík
6:30 AM
Arrival at Keflavík Airport
7:00 AM
Flybus from Keflavík Airport to your accommodation in Reykjavík - BSI Coach Terminal
10:00 AM
The I Heart Reykjavík Walking Tour - The tour starts by the Leifur Eiríksson statue outisde
Hallgrimskirkja church, The tour ends at Austurvöllur Square
8:00 PM
Northern Lights super jeep tour
Day 2: Super truck Golden Circle adventure and a glacier snowmobile
tour
9:00 AM
Golden Circle in a Super Truck and Snowmobile Tour in Langjökull - Langjökull Glacier, Þingvellir
National Park, Gullfoss Waterfall, Geysir Geothermal Area, Extra fee for single rider
Day 3: First day of your 2-day south coast adventure
8:45 AM
Day 1 of 2 Day tour of the South Coast, Ice Cave, Skaftafell & Jokulsarlon Ice Lagoon Eyjafjallajökull volcano/glacier, Seljalandsfoss Waterfall, Skógafoss, Reynisfjara Black Sand
Beach, Vík Village, Extra fee for single room occupancy
Day 4: Second day of your south coast adventure - including a visit to
an ice cave (yay!)
Day 2 of 2 day tour of the South Coast, Ice Cave, Skaftafell & Jokulsarlon Ice Lagoon Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon, Vatnajökull National Park, Skaftafell National Park
Day 5: Floating between the continents and underground adventures
9:00 AM
Snorkeling in Silfra and Caving tour - Snorkeling in Silfra
Day 6: Buffer day
Why include a "buffer" day?
Day 7: Last day in paradise
9:00 AM
The Blue Lagoon (with transfer) - Blue Lagoon
5:00 PM
Leave Iceland already planning your next visit
How to book this amazing adventure
DAY 1: EXPLORING REYKJAVÍK
6:30 AM
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Arrival at Keflavík Airport
Arrival
AIRLINE
Icelandair or WOW
This is a common landing time for Icelandair flights arriving from the US. These
flights leave the US the day before so if you are flying out of the US on Sunday you
land in Keflavík Airport on Monday morning.
If you are flying in with WOW air a common landing time is 4:00 to 5:00 am
7:00 AM
Departure
Flybus from Keflavík Airport to your accommodation in
Reykjavík
45 min
PRICE
3,000.00
After every flight you'll find a Flybus right outside of the arrival halls at Keflavík
Airport and they leave every 20 minutes or so.
There are two types of tickets available: The normal Flybus ticket that will take you
to the BSÍ bus terminal or a Flybus + Ticket that takes your to your hotel or
guesthouse.
If you are staying close to the BSÍ it's probably worth it to take the cheaper Flybus
ticket that will get you to the BSÍ and walk or take a taxi from there (especially if
there's more than one person traveling together) but if you are staying a little out of
the city center the Flybus + is a better deal.
Please keep in mind though that they say this only takes 45 minutes but that actually
just refers to the driving time between Keflavík Airport and the BSÍ bus terminal - the
whole process from when you sit inside the bus until they drop you off at your hotel (if
you have a Flybus + ticket) can take up to two hours.
BSI Coach Terminal
Reykjavík, IS, 101
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10:00 AM
The I Heart Reykjavík Walking Tour
2 hr
PRICE
5,500.00
This is our own walking tour that was designed to help you make the most of your
stay in Iceland. On the tour we'll tell you a little bit about the history of the city, show
you a few of our favorite places and tell you about restaurants, bars and cafes that
you can try during your visit.
This is not your typical history tour but is more thought as a practical guide to how to
enjoy our favorite city.
The tour starts by the
Leifur Eiríksson statue
outisde Hallgrimskirkja
church
101 Skólavörðustígur,
Reykjavík,
HÖFUÐBORGARSVÆÐIÐ,
IS, 121
The tour ends at
Austurvöllur Square
Reykjavík, CAPITAL REGION,
IS, 101
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8:00 PM
Northern Lights super jeep tour
3 hr 30 min
PRICE
19,900.00
Although the super jeep northern lights tour is no by any means the most affordable
option out there we think it's still worth considering. You will be traveling in a convoy
of modified Land Rovers (which is quite fun in itself) on a search for those elusive
northern lights and it's a lot of fun.
The super jeeps can reach areas that the buses can't, which is extra helpful when
there's a lot of snow around, and you won't be surrounded with 10 buses while you
enjoy the lights. There are small groups in each jeep but they do travel in a convoy
so there will be more people around.
There will be a chance on the tour to get photographed with the northern lights in the
background but if you don't want to do that you'll have plenty of time to enjoy the
experience on your own.
If you have the budget for it we think this is one of the best options to see the
northern lights. If you don't see any lights on your first try you can try again at a later
nigh
Pickup starts 15 minutes before departure - return times can vary
depending on the sightings and the conditions each evening.
DAY 2: SUPER TRUCK GOLDEN CIRCLE ADVENTURE AND A
GLACIER SNOWMOBILE TOUR
9:00 AM
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Golden Circle in a Super Truck and Snowmobile Tour in
Langjökull
10 hr
PRICE
45,900.00
This tour offers great value for money for those who would like to experience the
Golden Circle tour in a smaller group and do a snowmobile tour on a glacier.
Langjökull glacier is also conveniently located in relation to the Golden Circle so you
won't be going twice to the same area and you save time on transfers by combining
the two.
You will start by visiting Thingvellir National Park a UNESCO world heritage site that
is packed with history and unique natural phenomena. The Geysir hot spring area is
next on the agenda. Here the bubbling springs put on a magnificent show every 5-8
minutes. You stop at Gullfoss waterfall, one of Iceland’s greatest falls, before you
start making your way through the rough terrain towards Langjökull glacier.
At the snowmobile camp, you will gear up for your snowmobiling ride. After a short
introduction and safety briefing, you head out on the second biggest glacier in
Iceland – Langjökull. Your return to Reykjavík after exiting day with memories for a
lifetime.
Please note that to drive the snowmobile you need a valid international
driver's license.
Langjökull Glacier
IS
Þingvellir National Park
IS
Gullfoss Waterfall
Gullfoss Parking, Gullfoss,
SOUTH, IS, 810
Geysir Geothermal Area
Haukadalsvegur, IS
Extra fee for single rider
DAY 3: FIRST DAY OF YOUR 2-DAY SOUTH COAST ADVENTUREPage 8 of 14
8:45 AM
Day 1 of 2 Day tour of the South Coast, Ice Cave, Skaftafell &
Jokulsarlon Ice Lagoon
2d
PRICE
69,990.00
This tour offers a small group experience, giving travelers a very comfortable and
personal environment. This sightseeing and hiking journey begins down the scenic
route 1. The driver will pick you up from your desired accommodation in
Reykjavikbefore the morning departure and returns you there safely after the tour.
Day One - The Grand South Coast and Northern Lights
Imagine this: Huge thundering waterfalls, endless rolling valleys, beautiful black
beaches, extraordinary glaciers and small villages with unusually unique landscapes
in between. This is exactly what you can expect as you venture your way down the
south coast of Iceland. Experience the secluded drive down route 1 to the
famousEyjafjallajokull, home of the massive eruption that halted all European air
travel in 2010. Here you will have the chance to explore two of the most beautiful
waterfalls in the world: Seljalandsfoss and Skogafoss. On a clear day, you will
have the opportunity to see the two surrounding glaciers,Eyjafjallajökull and
Myrdalsjokull. Continuing on, the drive leads to the coastal village of Vik where
you will findReynisfjara, the black sand beach, with some fantastic sights such as
the picturesque basalt column formations and the famous Reynisdrangar peaks.
Throughout the entire drive, guests can expect to see breathtaking landscapes
consisting of vast lava fields covered by fluffy moss and surrounding endless
mountain range.
After enjoying the south coast marvels, we’ll head deeper into the countryside to our
accommodation. Here we will enjoy a relaxing evening and recharge for the coming
day. During the night we will hunt for the bright dancing Northern Lights. The
countryside, away from the city lights, is perfect for spotting this natural
phenomenon.
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Eyjafjallajökull
volcano/glacier
Hvolsvöllur, SUÐURLAND, IS
Seljalandsfoss Waterfall
Þórsmerkurvegur, SOUTH, IS,
861
Skógafoss
South, ICELAND, IS
Reynisfjara Black Sand
Beach
Vík í Mýrdal, SUÐURLAND,
IS
Vík Village
Vik, Southern Region, IS
Extra fee for single room
occupancy
DAY 4: SECOND DAY OF YOUR SOUTH COAST ADVENTURE INCLUDING A VISIT TO AN ICE CAVE (YAY!)
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Day 2 of 2 day tour of the South Coast, Ice Cave, Skaftafell &
Jokulsarlon Ice Lagoon
Day Two - Land of Ice
Between stunning ice caves and widespread glaciers, day two is sure to unravel
the excitement of glacier exploration. We will head off early in the morning to the
infamous Jokulsarlon Ice Lagoon, home of the massive floating icebergs.
Jokulsarlon is also where two James Bond movies were filmed; A view to a kill and
Die another Day, as well as Lara Croft: Tomb Raider. During the drive the land of ice
and fire will be before you creating a beautifully dramatic environment, giving you
the opportunity to view the numerous glacier outlets displayed by Europe’s largest
glacier, Vatnajokull.
Next we head to an Ice Cave where our certified guides will assure a safe and
exciting experience. Ice Caves are only found during the wintertime when the glacial
rivers retract and the water freezes. New caves are formed in different locations
each year. Ice Caves give you unparalleled photographicopportunitywhere you
can capture the blue light passing through the glacier ice. On our trip we will visit
one cave.
After visting an Ice Cave we start to head back. On the way back is when we will
stop at Skaftafell Nature Reserve, a part of Vatnajokull National Park.
Surrounded by amazing jagged mountains and glacier topped peeks, the scenery
consists of indistinguishable features making it a definite highlight of the tour. At the
end of our Skaftafell exploration, we will make our way back to Reykjavik. On the
way we will make sure to look out for Northern Lights and make quick stops to enjoy
the various landscapes.
Jökulsárlón Glacier
Lagoon
Suðurland, SUÐURLAND, IS,
781
Skaftafell National Park
Reykjavík, ICELAND, IS
Vatnajökull National Park
25-27 Klapparstígur, SOUTH,
IS
DAY 5: FLOATING BETWEEN THE CONTINENTS AND
UNDERGROUND ADVENTURES
9:00 AM
Snorkeling in Silfra and Caving tour
8 hr
PRICE
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24,990.00
On this tour, you will explore a lava tube and discover some of the marvels that the
volcanic activity in Iceland has created in the past. The caves you will visit, are
perfect for speleologists of all ages as they are both easy to access and navigate in
the company of an expert guide. During the winter, you will visit cave Leiðarendi but
cave Gjábakkahellir, during the summer. Both caves are located in beautiful
moonlike scenery that is sure to take your breath away.
After the caving exploration, you have time to grab lunch before moving on to the
second adventure of the day.
Silfra, frequently rated as one of the world’s top ten dive sites, is located between
the tectonic plates of Europe and America. Snorkeling in the Silfra Fissure is an
otherworldly experience. The crystal clear water in the deep fissure gives you a
feeling of pure weightlessness as you drift down the lazy current admiring at least 50
heavenly shades of blue. Snorkeling in Silfra is a relaxing but exotic pleasure in a
unique and captivating environment!
Remember to bring
Please bring with you warm and waterproof outdoor clothing, gloves, warm
undergarments (fleece/wool), warm socks, a change of clothing (just in case).
Sturdy hiking shoes, waterproof jacket and pants can be rented beforehand if you
contact us or book online.
Minimum requirements: 12 years old, 45kg and 150cm.
Snorkeling in Silfra
IS
DAY 6: BUFFER DAY
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Why include a "buffer" day?
When you visit Iceland for 7 days in winter, it can be smart to leave one day free
without any activities in your schedule. The weather in winter is super unpredictable
and it's almost certain that one of your tours will be canceled and you'll need to
reschedule it. Then it's good to have a free day in your schedule to move things
around.
If you are lucky and none of your tours need to be canceled or rescheduled, you can
either use this day to explore more of Reykjavík or you can have a backup tour
ready on hand which you can book last minute.
Believe me, you'll thank me for this advice if you get caught in one of our lovely
winter storms.
DAY 7: LAST DAY IN PARADISE
9:00 AM
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The Blue Lagoon (with transfer)
PRICE
4,200.00
It's a great idea to visit the Blue Lagoon on your way back to the airport. The main
reasons for this is a) the Blue Lagoon is on the way to the airport where you are
headed anyway and b) you are going to be a bit tired from all the traveling so
soaking in a hot pools is just what the doctor ordered.
There are many different packages you can book at the Blue Lagoon but we
recommend the comfort package which includes a towel. For a departure at 09:00
you would book your Blue Lagoon ticket at 10:00.
The admission to the Blue Lagoon is not included in the price!
The bus will pick you up from the hostel and take you to the Lagoon where you can
store your luggage for a small fee while you enjoy the lagoon. Then when you are
ready you take the next transfer to the airport. Just make sure you are there at least
2 hours before departure.
Please note that if you are flying out at 17:00 you can leave Reykjavík a little later.
Blue Lagoon
Grindavík, SUÐURNES, IS, 240
5:00 PM
Leave Iceland already planning your next visit
Departure
AIRLINE
Icelandair or WOW
If you are flying with Icelandair to the US you are likely to leave around 17:00 - if you
are flying with WOW on the other hand you are likely to fly between 15:00 and 16:00.
You need to be at the airport at least 2 hours before departure and we recommend
you take advantage of checking in online in advance or the self-service kiosks at the
airport. That way you can just drop off your luggage and head straight for security.
HOW TO BOOK THIS AMAZING ADVENTURE
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It's super easy: Just send us an e-mail and we'll take care of everything for you!
To make the booking process smoother and quicker please remember to include
the follow information:
Day of arrival with arrival time and flight number
Day of departure with departure time and flight number
What kind of accommodation you are looking for if you want us to book the
accommodation for you (we recommend Loft Hostel)
At what time you want to book your Blue Lagoon visit.
Easy peasy lemon squeeze-y.