Iceland Program - Nordic Tour

This nine-day adventure in Iceland includes an immersive exploration of the country's diverse landscapes, rich history, and unique culture. You'll experience the vibrant capital city of Reykjavík, historical sites, dramatic fjords, geothermal wonders, powerful waterfalls, and majestic glaciers. Each day includes a blend of scenic drives, cultural visits, outdoor activities, and moments of relaxation in stunning natural settings. Comfortable hotel accommodations and meals that highlight Icelandic cuisine ensure a comprehensive and enjoyable journey through this captivating country.

9 Day Nordic Itinerary

Day 1: Welcome to Iceland

Your Icelandic adventure begins with a comfortable private transfer from Keflavík International Airport to Reykjavík, your base for the first night. To make the most of your free time, we'll provide personalized recommendations for exploring Reykjavík's hidden gems or iconic landmarks, ensuring you experience the city's unique charm at your own pace.

Meals Included: Breakfast

Day 2: Land Of Sagas

Your Icelandic adventure begins with a taste of Reykjavík's vibrant spirit. Embark on a short city tour, exploring the colorful streets and iconic landmarks that paint a picture of Iceland's modern capital. With a newfound appreciation for the city's energy, we head northwest on a journey into the country's rich past and breathtaking landscapes.

Our first stop is Borgarnes, a charming town nestled on the shores of a glistening fjord. Here, the Settlement Exhibition unveils the captivating stories of the Viking Age. Immerse yourself in the sagas, tales of fierce warriors and intrepid explorers who first called Iceland home. As you delve into Viking history, the afternoon unfolds with a display of Iceland's raw natural power. Witness the immense geothermal energy at Deildartunguhver, Europe's most powerful hot spring. The sight of the churning water and billowing steam is a stark reminder of the earth's fiery heart.

Continuing our exploration, we encounter the mesmerizing Hraunfossar waterfall. Cascading from beneath a vast expanse of lava fields, its crystalline waters tumble into a glacial river, creating a spectacle of nature's contrasting forces. Nearby lies Barnafoss, a powerful waterfall shrouded in a tragic tale. Before settling into your comfortable accommodation for the night, we conclude the day with a short hike up the Grábrók volcano crater. As you ascend, the panorama unfolds, revealing a breathtaking vista of the surrounding region, dominated by the vast lava fields that whisper stories of fiery eruptions.

Meals Included: Breakfast / Dinner

Day 3: From West to North

Our journey north continues, taking you on a scenic drive unlike any other. We'll traverse dramatic mountain passes, vast black lava fields, and pockets of emerald green pastures. Fertile farmlands and stunning fjord landscapes will line the route, offering a glimpse into the diverse beauty of Iceland.As the afternoon sun bathes the landscape in a warm glow, we'll arrive at Eyjafjörður, Iceland's longest fjord nestled precisely below the Arctic Circle. Here, the thrill of whale watching awaits! Embark on a 2.5-3 hour adventure, scanning the crystal-clear waters for majestic humpback whales, playful minke whales, and even harbor porpoises and dolphins. With a heart full of wonder from the encounter, we'll conclude the afternoon in Akureyri, Iceland's second-largest city, for a taste of its vibrant culture before reaching our final destination for the day – the picturesque village of Húsavík.

Meals Included: Breakfast / Dinner

Day 4: Geological Wonders and Natur Baths

Our day begins with a stop at Goðafoss, a powerful waterfall that cascades into a dramatic gorge. Beyond its visual splendor, Goðafoss holds a significant place in Icelandic history. As we delve deeper into the region, we embark on a tour of the captivating Lake Mývatn area. This unique ecosystem boasts an abundance of birdlife, making it a paradise for birdwatchers. But the true stars of the show are the dramatic volcanic landscapes surrounding the lake. Witness a canvas painted by nature: strange lava formations, a diverse array of volcanic craters, and picturesque bays teeming with thousands of birds and ducks.

Prepare to be mesmerized by the surreal pseudocraters at Skútustaðir, volcanic vents that have erupted beneath a glacier. We'll then take a stroll through the mysterious lava labyrinth of Dimmuborgir, a network of dark lava caves that weave through the landscape like a petrified dragon's dream. Our final stop is Hverfjall, an impressive tephra cone – a volcanic hill formed from ash and cinders. After a day of exploration, unwind and soak in the rejuvenating waters of the Mývatn Nature Baths. Rich in minerals and boasting a naturally alkaline balance, these geothermal baths are the perfect way to relax and reflect on the day's unforgettable experiences.

Meals Included: Breakfast / Dinner

Day 5: From North to East

The morning unfolds with a deeper exploration of Iceland's awe-inspiring volcanic and geothermal wonders. We'll delve into the otherworldly landscape of Námaskarð, where steaming fumaroles and bubbling mud pools create a scene straight out of science fiction. Brace yourselves for a whiff of sulfur as we approach Krafla, a geothermal area showcasing the raw power of volcanic activity. Here, you'll witness the earth's fiery energy firsthand.

Next, prepare to be captivated by the sight of Víti, a circular explosion crater filled with vibrant blue water. Surrounded by colorful mountains and hissing steam vents, it's a geological marvel unlike any other. Our journey continues eastward, with a stop at Europe's most powerful waterfall, Dettifoss. Cascading down a dramatic cliff face, its sheer force is a humbling display of nature's power.

We'll then embark on a scenic drive through the uninhabited highlands, offering a glimpse into Iceland's vast and remote wilderness. A stop at the charming church on the farm at Möðrudalur provides a welcome respite before we continue our journey. As we traverse the landscape, keep your eyes peeled for the majestic mountain peak of Herðubreið, a local landmark. Finally, our day concludes in the fertile region of Fljótsdalshérað, a stark contrast to the volcanic landscapes explored earlier.

Meals Included: Breakfast / Dinner

Day 6: Fjords, Glacier and Ice

A day dedicated to the breathtaking beauty of the East Fjords awaits. Prepare to be captivated by a landscape unlike any other. Lush green valleys will unfold before you, contrasting dramatically with the towering peaks that line the route. Twisting roads will lead us to charming fishing villages nestled at the water's edge, each with its own unique story to tell.

One such village is Djúpivogur, where we'll make a stop to soak in its local charm. As we continue our journey, the mighty Vatnajökull glacier, Europe's largest, will come into view, its majestic presence dominating the horizon. Prepare to be awestruck as we embark on a boat ride on the Jökulsárlón glacial lagoon. Here, colossal icebergs, glistening like diamonds under the sun, bob gently on the turquoise waters. A walk along the stark black sands of the nearby Diamond Beach, where these icy giants have washed ashore, will leave you breathless.

Our day concludes within the boundaries of Vatnajökull National Park, a fitting end to an exploration of this remarkable region. Surrounded by the park's awe-inspiring landscapes, you'll have ample time to reflect on the day's experiences before settling in for a peaceful evening.

Meals Included: Breakfast / Dinner

Day 7: Vatnajokull National Park and The South

Our exploration of Vatnajökull National Park continues this morning. Prepare to be dwarfed by the sight of Hvannadalshnjúkur, Iceland's highest peak and a majestic stratovolcano. We'll then venture closer to the park's glacial wonders, offering a chance to witness the raw power of nature firsthand.

As we navigate the diverse landscape, you'll encounter a contrasting spectacle – a vast, sandy desert juxtaposed with the captivating Eldhraun lava field. This volcanic terrain, adorned with vibrant blue-green moss, is a testament to the earth's transformative power. Our journey then takes us to the dramatic black lava beach of Reynisfjara, where the power of the ocean meets the stark volcanic landscape.

Next, we'll delve into Iceland's rich history with a stop at the Skógar folk museum in the charming village of Skógafoss. Here, traditional turf houses offer a glimpse into the country's early Modern period. Stepping out of the museum, be mesmerized by the cascading power of the Skógafoss waterfall, a natural wonder that will leave you speechless. Finally, our day concludes with a scenic drive along the iconic Eyjafjallajökull glacier and volcano. As we travel, keep an eye out for the majestic Seljalandsfoss waterfall, another highlight of this unforgettable journey.

Meals Included: Breakfast / Dinner

Day 8: Golden Circle To Reykjavik

Your Icelandic adventure culminates with a fascinating exploration that blends the country's unique agricultural practices with iconic natural wonders. Our day begins at Friðheimar, a captivating farm where you'll delve into the world of Icelandic horses, renowned for their strength, temperament, and five distinct gaits. Witness these magnificent creatures firsthand and learn about their importance in Icelandic culture.

Following this insightful experience, we'll embark on a journey along the renowned Golden Circle. This route takes us to Gullfoss, a breathtaking waterfall that plunges dramatically into a canyon, creating a spectacle of cascading power. Next, we'll witness the raw geothermal energy at Geysir, an active geothermal area where geysers erupt with impressive force.

Our final stop is Þingvellir National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a place steeped in history. Here, you'll stand at the very spot where the world's first parliament was established, a testament to Iceland's long democratic tradition. The park itself is a geological marvel, showcasing the dramatic rift valley that separates the Eurasian and North American tectonic plates. As we explore these diverse landscapes, you'll gain a deeper appreciation for Iceland's unique blend of natural beauty and rich cultural heritage.

Meals Included: Breakfast

Day 9: Departure Home

Your comfortable private transfer awaits to whisk you from your hotel directly to Keflavík Airport, ensuring a stress-free conclusion to your Icelandic adventure.

Note: While we strive to follow the exact itinerary, unforeseen circumstances like weather, road closures, or snow may necessitate adjustments. In such rare cases, some outdoor activities or day tours might be cancelled. Unfortunately, refunds wouldn't be applicable in these situations. However, we are committed to finding suitable alternatives whenever possible to ensure you have an enjoyable experience.

Hraunfossar Waterfall | Iceland
Gullfoss waterfall | Golden Circle | Iceland
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Vatnajokull National Park
Landscape of Námaskarð | Iceland

9 Day Nordic Itinerary Includes

  • Transfer Keflavík Airport-Reykjavík with guide. Parking fee at Keflavík airport
  • Accommodation for 8 nights incl. breakfast. 2 nights in Reykjavik, 6 nights outside Reykjavik
  • 6x 3-course dinner or buffet including coffee/tea outside Reykjavík
  • Coach and driver for 7 days as per program outside of Reykjavík, day 2-8. Maximum 2030 km in total. Maximum 9 hours per day between 08:00-19:00. Except 10 hours on day 2,3 & 5. 11 hours on day 7.
  • Accommodation for the driver in single room incl. breakfast, lunch and dinner outside of Reykjavík
  • Parking fee at Þingvellir National Park, Seljalandsfoss, Skaftafell National Park, Jökulsárlón, Reynisfjara, Námaskarð & Hverfjall
  • Tunnel fee at Vaðlaheiðagöng
  • English speaking guide for 7 days as per program. Maximum 11 hours per day. Accommodation for the guide in single room incl. breakfast, lunch, and dinner utside of Reykjavík
  • Entrance to the Settlement Centre in Borgarnes. Two exhibits
  • Whale watching tour in Hauganes (3 hours)
  • Entrance to Mývatn Nature Baths (stop for 1,5-2 hours). Use of Towel
  • Amphibian boat tour on Jökulsárlón Glacier lagoon (30-40 min)
  • Entrance to Skógar Folk Museum
  • Entrance to Friðheimar Geothermal Greenhouse and Horse stables *not included for 1-9 pax, available on request
  • Transfer Reykjavík- Keflavík Airport without guide
  • All GJ Travel busses include: free WIFI, simple non slip snow & ice grippers spikes for shoes during winter departures

9 Day Nordic Itinerary Does not Include

  • Drinks with dinner 
  • Dinner transfer
  • Other not mentioned meals or refreshments
  • Other not mentioned tours, activities or extras
  • Guide during the departure transfer
  • Extra fee due to early breakfast or grab & go
  • Other unexpected costs for nature sights

9 Day Nordic Itinerary Highlights

  • The trip covers a vast range of Icelandic landscapes, from dramatic waterfalls and glaciers to geothermal wonders and volcanic craters. You'll experience the stark beauty of black sand beaches, lush green valleys, and towering mountains.
  • The itinerary includes a whale-watching adventure in Akureyri and opportunities to see birdlife at Lake Mývatn.
  • You'll delve into Iceland's Viking history with a visit to the Settlement Exhibition and explore the Skógar folk museum to learn about the country's early modern period.
  • The program includes soaking in the Mývatn Nature Baths and a boat tour on the Jökulsárlón glacial lagoon, where you can admire icebergs and explore the Diamond Beach.
  • The trip culminates with a visit to the famous Golden Circle, encompassing the Gullfoss waterfall, the Geysir geothermal area, and Þingvellir National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Accomodation

  • Fosshotel Reykjavík
  • Hotel Laugarbakki
  • Fosshotel Húsavík
  • Fosshotel East Fjords
  • Fosshotel Glacier Lagoon
  • Hotel Örk
Nordic 9 Days
From USD 11000,00 pp
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