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Duration
4 days
Activities
  • guided walk
Accommodation
Meals
  • 3 Dinners
  • 4 Lunches
  • 3 Breakfasts

Price

$2390USD

 
 

Overview

Trip Code: INL

Trip highlights


  • Discovering on foot the geology, history, geysers and waterfalls of Iceland's 'Golden Circle'
  • soaking in hot springs
  • Hunting for the northern lights in the evening whilst based in a comfortable countryside hostel
  • Hiking with crampons on the Sólheimajökull glacier

Discover Iceland’s south west highights when the days are short and the nights are full of the possibility of viewing the famous northern lights. This 4 day mini break is packed full of adventures and highlights, with 5-10km of walking each day in dramatic landscapes. From geysers, majestic waterfalls, and the fault lines of Thingvellir National Park to relaxing in natural hot springs and exploring an ice cave in the heart of Vatnajökull, this trip optimises your Iceland winter experience. The final day includes walking on the black southern beaches and hiking with crampons on the Sólheimajökull glacier. At night stay in a comfortable countryside hostel literally in the middle of nowhere, to maximise your chance to view the extraordinary sight of coloured lights streaming through the northern sky, the Aurora Borealis.

Trip Grading

introductory to moderate

More info about grading system

Our driver will pick you up between 8:15 and 8:45am at your accommodation. Leaving the capital we have a short drive to Thingvellir National Park where we walk along the fault lines that show the rifting of the earth’s crust. We hear about the major historical events that have taken place here and come to understand why this is a UNESCO world heritage site. After this short hike we drive to the Golden Circle, namely the spouting springs of Geysir and the majestic Gullfoss waterfall. We then continue to our accommodation in a nice hostel by lake Laugarvatn, our base for three nights. In the evening, we will look out for Northern Lights if the weather permits. Hike: 10km

Meals:  L,D

A short drive brings us to Nesjavellir which is a large geothermal power plant where heat is pumped up and used to warm houses in the capital area. Depending on the conditions we will either hike or snowshoe in this magnificent area amongst the lava rocks, mud pots and boiling springs. Afterwards we return to our hostel for dinner and overnight. In the evening we have the possibility of bathing in the Geothermal Baths of Fontana Spa (optional) only a few minutes walk from the hostel. If we are lucky, we will be able to admire the Northern lights from the outdoor hot jacuzzi. Hike: 5-10km

Meals:  B,L,D

Today we drive towards the south coast of Iceland. We head for the Sólheimajökull glacier where an exciting adventure awaits. Our certified and experienced glacier guide will lead us through a frozen wonderland of different shades of glacier ice, which can be white, blue or crystal clear. You will safely view deep crevasses and water cauldrons, along with other interesting features of the glacier. Your guide will share their knowledge about the ever-changing landscapes of the Icelandic glaciers, their formation and how these icy giants relate to the surrounding volcanoes and mountains. After this thrilling experience we will drive a little bit further east to visit the Black Beach of Reynisfjara. On the way back to our hostel we will stop to admire the waterfalls, Skógafoss and Seljalandsfoss. Dinner and overnight at the hostel. Look out for Northern Lights in the evening.

Meals:  B,L,D

We pack our bags this morning and drive to the greenhouse village of Hveragerði from where we will hike or snowshoe to the Reykjadalur valley. We will be climbing up the hills into the magical valley of solfataras and hot springs. Those brave enough can dip into a natural hot river. We then return to Reykjavík where the trip concludes. Hike: 11km

Meals:  B,L


Inclusions

  • 3 breakfasts - continental breakfasts are served and usually consist of bread, selection of cold cuts and other toppings, muesli, yoghurt, fruit, tea and coffee, 4 lunches (picnic style), 3 dinners prepared by the guide (your participation in preparation is encouraged)
  • 3 nights in a comfortable hostel: twin rooms with share facilities. The hostel has a games room, dining room and shared kitchen
  • Experienced walking guide for 4 days
  • All internal transfers by private 4*4 minibus
  • Pick up and drop off at your Reykjavik accommodation to start & end your trip
  • Glacier walk on Sólheimajökull
  • Snow shoe hire

  • Travel to and from Reykjavik
  • Items of a personal nature including beverages, laundry, phone calls etc
  • Accommodation in Reykjavik before and after the trip
  • Airport transfers
  • Travel insurance - mandatory

Accommodation


Grading

introductory to moderate  

INTRODUCTORY to MODERATE – GRADE 2 The walking involves daily walks of 2-4 hours per day. There are some steep sections over loose trails during the walk and such sections of the trail require care. The accent is on keeping a steady pace to with time to stop and take photos. You will need a reasonable level of fitness to participate fully in this adventure. Weather conditions may be harsh at times, and you will need to be comfortable walking in such conditions.


Departure dates


Notes

DN1
The northern lights are a natural phenomenon and therefore sightings cannot be guaranteed.
DN2
High season is from 22 Dec to 1 Jan - supplement applies

Want to organise a private group?

Fundraising events, sporting groups, family treats; learn how you can organise a Private Group from just 6 travellers.

Priceper person from

$2390USD

Options & Supplements*
  • single supplementUSD$230
*Prices listed are per person

Trip reviews


Why travel with us

Making Europe Affordable

We offer different levels of accommodation and comfort so that even the most budget conscious can treat themselves to active holidays on Europe's most celebrated tracks and trails. Our trips are great value for money because you only pay for what you want.  

Self-Guided Specialists

Our wide range of self-guided itineraries embody the UTracks philosophy of exploring Europe your way. We handle the logistics so all that's left for you to do is enjoy exploring Europe at your own pace. Most depart daily with a minimum of two people, meaning maximum flexibility.

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With close to 400 trips in almost 50 countries, including the largest range of bike & boat holidays in Europe, we're confident that we can organise an Alps walk, Camino de Santiago or Via Francigena experience, Food Lovers' trip or a tour in a lesser-known pocket of Europe that you will love. 

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