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Iceland Hiking & Adventure Tours

Essence of Iceland Trip v2

Explore deep in Iceland's dramatic landscapes on a one of a kind Iceland hiking tour while staying in incredible accommodations along the way.

Iceland is an explorer's paradise, and joining an all-inclusive Iceland hiking adventure is a sure way to experience its rugged nature for yourself. We've trekked in a fair few places around the globe, and we can say without a doubt that there's nothing quite like the vast wilderness of Iceland. Lose track of time as you ponder the impressive Gullfoss Waterfall, spot wild puffin colonies on the Ingólfshöfði headland, sea kayak on Heinabergsjökull Lagoon and wander endless green hills in the Eastern Fjords. 

EU Iceland waterfalls

View the best of Iceland, mixed to our favorite hidden gems, for an Iceland adventure you won't forget any time soon!

On our Iceland adventures, you will experience the true Iceland, from must-sees like Reykjavík “Smokey Bay”, Þingvellir, Vatnajökull National Parks and Jökulsárlón Lagoon, to lesser-known gems like the Vestmannaeyjar Islands, Eldfell Volcano and the remote Eastern Fjord. You'll hike to spy on wild puffin colonies, soak in hidden hot springs and admire the Öxaràrfoss, Gullfoss, Seljalandsfoss, Skógafoss, Kvernufoss & Svartifoss Waterfalls from above and below... So, what are you waiting for?

Iceland Trips

Europe

Classic Iceland Adventure

4.79

  • Duration 7 days
  • Activity Level Level 3 
    • Activity Level 3

      Step It Up

      I love an active vacation. Engaging in a challenging activity with a difficult goal, such as reaching a summit, is exactly what I need to unwind in the evenings.

    Read more about the Active Range

Journey along Iceland's Golden Circle and venture further afield to remote glacier lagoons and otherworldly volcanic landscapes. This seven-day adventure reveals the best of Iceland’s dramatic landscapes and dynamic culture.

Trip Start: Reykjavik Trip End: Reykjavik

Europe

Ultimate Iceland Adventure

4.78

  • Duration 11 days
  • Activity Level Level 4 
    • Activity Level 4

      Challenge Accepted

      I'll let my trusty guides sweat the small things, so I can focus on my goal. Getting to the top, reaching the end, achieving my dreams! Sure, it'll be tough, but the views will be worth it.

    Read more about the Active Range

Roam Iceland's vast landscapes on this 11-day adventure, hiking to view puffin colonies, kayaking on a lagoon in Vatnajökull National Park, and admiring famous waterfalls, before starting a three-day hike through the Eastern Fjords.

Trip Start: Reykjavik Trip End: Reykjavik

What Our Guests About the Trip

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Classic Iceland Adventure - September 2022

Lundi trip

"What a way to experience Iceland. The trip left me already planning a return… read more

"What a way to experience Iceland. The trip left me already planning a return trip to this amazing country. Sölvi was a great guide, he not only kept us all moving and on time but he gave us so much history about his country. read less

5 Stars (14 reviews)

Jan, United States

Ultimate Iceland Adventure - September 2022

Beautiful Iceland

"We had a great time in Iceland and experienced daily changes in the landscape as… read more

"We had a great time in Iceland and experienced daily changes in the landscape as we traveled across the southern portion of the island. We were blessed with great weather the entire time we were there, which we were told is not typical. We had a great group of people to travel with and made new friends. As usual, we had excellent guides. Thora gave us plenty of things to think about with folklore stories, history and information on geology, and both Thora and Kim were great trekking partners and guides over the fjords at the end of the trip. We do hope we can get back to Iceland again in the near future. read less

5 Stars (32 reviews)

Donald, United States

Ultimate Iceland Adventure - August 2022

Ohh Iceland!

"This was an adventure of a life time. The guides, Ivar and Kim, were helpful… read more

"This was an adventure of a life time. The guides, Ivar and Kim, were helpful and knowledgeable about the country. Ivar especially is an expert in the geology, history and folklore of Iceland. They are also excellent cooks! read less

5 Stars (32 reviews)

Maggie, United States

Ultimate Iceland Adventure - August 2022

Great family trip to Iceland!

"We loved our Iceland Lundi trip with Jon and Holly! Gorgeous countryside and really… read more

"We loved our Iceland Lundi trip with Jon and Holly! Gorgeous countryside and really fun experiences. Jon and Holly were awesome leaders and the other people on our trip were great. Would highly recommend. read less

4 Stars (32 reviews)

Lauren, United States

Ultimate Iceland Adventure - August 2022

Iceland: Trip of a Lifetime!

"We learned so much about this unique and beautiful country from our guides on our… read more

"We learned so much about this unique and beautiful country from our guides on our journey across the southern part of Iceland. So many amazing stories and information about the changing landscape and the inclusive culture of this small but mighty country. Can't wait to go back and see more! read less

5 Stars (32 reviews)

Lorie, Canada

Ultimate Iceland Adventure - August 2022

Awesome Icelandic Adventure!

"After researching tours to Iceland Active Adventures offered the best overall package! Our group… read more

"After researching tours to Iceland Active Adventures offered the best overall package! Our group consisted of ten plus two wonderful guide; we became "family" in the week. Our Icelandic guides knowledge of the history and geography of Iceland was invaluable. Truly an incredible experience. Thank you Tora for sharing your beautiful country with us, we'll be back. read less

5 Stars (32 reviews)

Roxanne, United States

Ultimate Iceland Adventure - August 2022

Epic!

"Epic! That is the word I have used to describe this trip. As this was… read more

"Epic! That is the word I have used to describe this trip. As this was my third trip with Active, I knew what to expect and was not disappointed. We saw all the highlights (waterfalls, glaciers, lava fields, and puffins) and then some. Our guides, Kim and Solvi, were kind, knowledgeable, and amazing chefs. They made sure all of us had a great time. The hut to hut trek is NOT to be missed and was certainly a highlight for me. There is something magical about hiking in the backcountry for several days. I highly recommend this trip! read less

5 Stars (32 reviews)

Melissa, United States

Ultimate Iceland Adventure - August 2022

Iceland in July

"Loved seeing Iceland with great guides Solvi and Kim. Hiking fjord to fjord was the… read more

"Loved seeing Iceland with great guides Solvi and Kim. Hiking fjord to fjord was the best part! read less

5 Stars (32 reviews)

Camille, United States

Ultimate Iceland Adventure - July 2022

Icelandic Adventure

"Amazing scenery, challenging (but do-able) activities, beautiful weather, delicious food, and outstanding guides and fellow… read more

"Amazing scenery, challenging (but do-able) activities, beautiful weather, delicious food, and outstanding guides and fellow tour goers... what more can be said? This was an incredible trip. Our guide provided a wonderful experience in sharing her country and culture. The trip was definitely active and we covered a lot of ground, but it was very stress free and we couldn't have asked for more. read less

5 Stars (32 reviews)

Charlotte, United States

Ultimate Iceland Adventure - July 2022

AMAZING ICELAND TRIP

"This was my 3rd trip with active adventures- Patagonia and New Zealand and now Iceland.… read more

"This was my 3rd trip with active adventures- Patagonia and New Zealand and now Iceland. Every time things have been so organized with great friendly helpful guides. We got to the main attractions and then to the hidden gems where we were out in the backcountry really experiencing the beauty of the country. I highly recommend any trip with active adventures!! read less

5 Stars (32 reviews)

Kim, United States

Classic Iceland Adventure - June 2022

Iceland Trip of a Lifetime

"Our family of four just got home from our adventure trip to Iceland. It… read more

"Our family of four just got home from our adventure trip to Iceland. It certainly lived up to the hype! The island is like no other place on earth. The beauty is difficult to put in to words. In addition, there are so many different landscapes on one small island. Our tour guide, Solvi, was top notch. He was fun and so knowledgeable about EVERYTHING. He even told us Icelandic epic stories while we were driving. His love of his country was so obvious and he seemed to have the same sense of awe as we did at each site we visited, even though he had been there many times before. The volcanoes, the falls, the national parks, the glaciers, there is just so much to see. The food was also delicious and we felt like we were getting to eat what the locals would eat. We had our kids ages 17 and 21 and they loved every minute of it too. That says it all right there! I highly recommend this trip and 100% you should add on the glacier hike. It was the highlight for all of us. read less

5 Stars (14 reviews)

Amy, United States

Classic Iceland Adventure - June 2022

Thank you, Active Adventures!

"This was my second trip with Active Adventures and it was everything I had hoped… read more

"This was my second trip with Active Adventures and it was everything I had hoped for and more! Every waterfall was different, every hike unique, and the puffin colony and glacial lake kayaking were super special. Thanks to our guides, we learned so much about Iceland! read less

5 Stars (14 reviews)

Debbie, United States

Classic Iceland Adventure - May 2022

Long overdue trip to Iceland

"This was a great trip. Holly and Solvi were fantastic, full of interesting information… read more

"This was a great trip. Holly and Solvi were fantastic, full of interesting information on Iceland and its history, and they did a wonderful job with our group. The trip had what I wanted: icebergs, glaciers, volcanos, historical sites, Icelandic horses, and good hikes. Definitely a fantastic trip! read less

5 Stars (14 reviews)

Terry, United States

Classic Iceland Adventure - May 2022

Iceland Adventure

"The Lundi trip hit all the right notes: major sights of Iceland, hiking and kayaking… read more

"The Lundi trip hit all the right notes: major sights of Iceland, hiking and kayaking fun, great meals and comfy accommodations, fun group of like-minded travelers.

Holly and Sölvi kept us on track; gave us a ton of information about Iceland’s history, geology, and culture; and made sure we were laughed along the way all while getting us out to see the best of Iceland’s south coast. read less

4 Stars (14 reviews)

Dawn, United States

Classic Iceland Adventure - May 2022

Amazing Lundi!

"Just returned from our May 8 Lundi trip to Iceland and had a fantastic time!… read more

"Just returned from our May 8 Lundi trip to Iceland and had a fantastic time! The trip was well organized, and the guides were very knowledgable. Our meals were delicious, hotels comfortable, and activities challenging. Highly recommend this journey with Active. read less

5 Stars (14 reviews)

Tobe, United States

Austin PIF 2

Take 10% off the trip price when you book a trip and pay in full.

By paying in full we are able to pass on savings to our guests, but please note that by opting for this payment plan, your booking becomes non-refundable, non-cancellable, and non-changeable. 

We highly recommend that you purchase Cancel For Any Reason (CFAR) insurance. We recommend Redpoint Insurance – you can find details here.

T+Cs Apply.

BOOKING CONDITIONS

Meet Your Iceland Local Guides

FAQs About Visiting Iceland

What is the best time of year to travel to Iceland?

Summer is the best time to visit Iceland with the longest daylight hours between June-August and the temperature sits around the low 20'sC. The months between May and September is the best time of year for whale watching and if you're keen to get out hiking, the snow comes as early as September and can linger into May.

What language is mostly spoken in Iceland?

Icelandic is a national language spoken by the vast majority whom live in Iceland. English is spoken in most hotels, airports and tourist areas though not everywhere. Our local guides are all fluent native speakers so if you don't have time to learn a little before arrival you don't have to worry... they will take care of everything.

What month is best to see Northern Lights in Iceland?

The best time to see the aurora borealis in Iceland is between October and March with the best time of day would be the hours around midnight.

How many days do you need in Iceland?

A minimum of 1 week in Iceland is good though roughly 8-12 days is an ideal amount of time to spend in Iceland as it gives you time to explore different regions.

Do I need a visa to visit Iceland?

It is your responsibility stay up to date on the latest visa and entry requirements for your destination. Please use the CIBT entry tracker on our website as a guideline or visit the relevant immigration webpage for more information regarding this.

What about vaccinations in Iceland?

You don't need any vaccinations for Iceland. Easy!

Do you recommend buying travel insurance?

As an Active Adventures traveller, It’s essential you take out travel insurance to cover the likes of personal injury, medical expenses, trip cancellation for your travel with us. Please head to our Travel Insurance page for more in-depth information and insurance provider options. It’s also important to check your insurance covers all the activities you’ll be partaking in, in case you’re travelling to altitude or looking at extreme sports.

Can you help me find international flights to Iceland?

We recommend booking your flights through our preferred travel partner – Fuzion Travel. They’re our experienced hand-picked experts in travel, passionate about what they do, and will tailor-make your flight itinerary to match your Active Adventures tour. Get in touch with them directly by email – [email protected] fuziontravel.co.nz or on +1-833-244-5886. Let them know your preferred travel plans, including any stopovers or extra nights’ accommodation, and they’ll put everything in place for you. They offer a total travel solution and five star service that you’ll want to tell your friends about!

What's included on your Iceland trips?

Accommodation
On your Iceland trip you'll stay in a variety of places depending on the destination and activities. For the most part you'll stay in nice, locally owned, beautiful family run hotels in great locations, with private bathrooms, free wifi, great breakfasts and warm local hospitality. Whilst in more remote areas we use backcountry cabins where they're more rustic with outhouse bathrooms (flush toilets) and gas heating.

Transport
Your transport will be a mixture of private vehicle, bike, kayak and your very own two feet on our trips in Iceland. You'll spend most time hiking, biking or paddling everywhere though! All your transport is included from the start of your trip until at the end, with the exception of airport transfers. The details are all listed in the trip specific itineraries.

Meals
All your meals are included as described in the itinerary except on your free days. We have found that people enjoy checking out what is on offer by themselves sometimes, so you can go and see what's out there! On every other day and especially after any long hikes, we've chosen places to eat that can cater for our hearty appetites, work well with our small groups (they know we are coming) and provide us with an authentic destination specific culinary experience. There are always options for you, so you can either be brave or choose something more familiar. You can be assured that on all our trips we will make sure you are very well fed, and Europe's vast array of cuisine won't disappoint you!

Trip leaders
Our trips are all led by an experienced Trip Leader alongside a local specialist guide. Our Trip Leaders are very proud to work with Active Adventures and often lead our trips for many years, for which we are very lucky and very grateful, as it means we're able to consistently offer a fantastic level of service. They work closely with our local specialist guides to provide you with a seamless, fun, exciting and memorable trip. They will happily share with you as much or as little as you want to know about the history, culture, social aspects and lifestyle of the country you are visiting.

How many people are there on each of your Iceland trips?

We generally take up to 14 people per trip, although this can vary, and all our trips have at least two of our guides to look after you (apart from the occasions we have a small group). We have found that our trips tend to attract a particular kind of person and many people have commented that the social scene was one of the highlights of their trip!

What rooming is provided on your Iceland trips?

Our trip fares are based on a twin-share rate (two people per room), though for the multi-day trek on the Ultimate Iceland Adventure the mountain cabin’s are located in very remote areas (with amazing scenery) so they don’t have private rooms, electricity or phones however there’s a shared outhouse with hot showers and flushing toilets - and the view from the outhouse is second to none!

What kind of clothing should I be packing?

Once you've booked your trip, you'll have access to a gear list in your portal on exactly what to bring along. The gear list is carefully thought out to provide you with everything you need to be warm and happy, or cool and relaxed, whatever the weather! So it is best to bring everything we recommend along, if you don't bring everything you need, we can't guarantee your comfort.

Do I need hiking boots or are hiking sneakers okay?

You will need proper hiking boots for the Stelkur, though trail shoes will be all good for the Lundi trip. We'll be taking you to some awesome places where you'll be hiking over a variety of terrain, therefore your boots should have full ankle support and a stiff sole with a high profile tread. It's also important that whichever footwear you decide to bring that it's well broken-in and waterproofed before you come down. If you have good ankles that will be able to cope pretty well with varied terrain, then good hiking shoes should be fine, but if not then hiking boots will give you better support.

What is the food like in Iceland?

Icelandic cuisine is famous for their local seafood, specifically their cod as well as lamb, bread and skyr- a soft yogurt-like cheese. The sheer abundance and variety of produce, wine and meats will satisfy any palate.

What if I need a special diet?

We are accustomed to catering to the following special diets:

  • vegan (no meat or animal products)
  • vegetarian (no meat products)
  • fishatarian (vegetarian, and eat fish)
  • no red meat (eat chicken & fish)
  • gluten intolerant (no wheat, rye, barley or oats)
  • lactose intolerant (no dairy products)

You will get the opportunity to specify your particular requirements when you fill in our pre-trip questionnaire. If you have any other dietary requirements please let us know well in advance, via email or the online questionnaire.

What is the currency in Iceland?

The currency in Iceland it’s the Icleandic Króna kr

How much spending money should I bring and where do I get local currencies?

Our trips include all transportation, guiding, meals and activities (except where indicated on the itinerary). Most people like to bring a little extra to cover a round of drinks at the pub, take home some souvenirs, book a tour and eat out on their free day, and tip our guides if they've had a great time. 

Usually the easiest thing to do is use your credit or debit card to withdraw money directly from your home account, in local currency. There are plenty of ATM's and banks in larger towns in Europe, and ATM's will accept all major credit cards and many debit cards. Cash advances are the most convenient way to get cash.

What is the time zone in Iceland?

For the majority of the summer season Iceland is on GMT time.

What type of plugs and voltage do you use in Iceland?

Iceland operate on a 220V AC system with Plug Type C which consists of two round parallel pins while the wall plug has two holes where it is connected.

Will I have access to internet/WiFi?

WiFi is available almost everywhere in cities and easy enough to find in most towns/villages so you can rely on having regularly access during your trip. If you have data roaming switched on, then you'll be able to use the internet on your smartphone, but beware of the fees! WiFi is available at most of the accommodations that you'll be staying at, sometimes for a small cost so check this out at each location when you arrive. There is no WiFi on the Multi-day hike and we’re sometimes without reception.

What is the weather like in Iceland?

Iceland enjoys a cool temperate climate thanks to the Gulf Stream, and the weather is known to change quickly and often. No matter when you're visiting you should always have wind and water resistant outerwear, as well as extra thermal layers on hand! Winter in Iceland usually has temperatures hovering around 0°c (32°F), which is really nothing compared to the temperatures in other northern countries, considering it's one of the absolute best places to see the northern lights in the world! Summer is still very cool due to being so close to the Arctic circle. During the warmest months, in July and August, the temperature in Reykjavík sits between 9-14°C (48-57°F) though warm summer days can reach 20–25°C (68–77°F). The days are very long which provides plenty of sunshine - during a time known as the Midnight Sun, when there is virtually no nighttime darkness!

What is there to do in Reykjavík?

Reykjavík (translated to “Smokey Bay”) is the northernmost capital of the world and presents a wealth of sights and activities that appeal to culture, nature and nightlife enthusiasts alike. Hallgrímskirkja church is a must-see, visible from almost every angle of the city and therefore making it very easy to find. At the top of this expressionist building is a viewing platform boasting 360° views over the entire city. You could visit the Harpa Concert and Conference Hall, it is an impressive glass building situated by the old harbour of Reykjavík, you’ll be able to admire it both from the outside and inside and get some great pictures. There are also numerous green areas and parks you can visit in Reykjavík, a popular destination all year round is Grótta, with its iconic lighthouse and views over Faxaflói bay and Reykjavík’s signature mountain Esjan.

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Iceland Travel Tips & Blogs

Why Travel With Us

11

Experience adventure the way you want

You’ll be inspired and exhilarated, enjoying mind-blowing scenery on foot, in a sea kayak, or by bike - all at your own pace. Get ready for the trip of a lifetime.

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Crafting award-winning trips for decades - the Kiwi way

We're proud of our Kiwi roots and you’ll love our professional, warm and relaxed style of hosting. Plus, we’re always here to help with planning, travel, bookings... even hiking boot recommendations!

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Every detail covered, to maximise your time

As soon as your trip starts, we've got everything covered – top notch meals, comfortable transport, superb accommodation, amazing guides and INCREDIBLE service.

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Group travel for those who aren’t ‘group travellers’

With our small groups of typically no more than 14 (up to 18 max), you'll get to know our team, your fellow travellers, and have the flexibility and freedom to do as much (or as little!) as you like. It’s all about going at your own pace.

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Explore hidden gems through our expert local guides

All our carefully selected guides are highly experienced and have deep personal connections to nature and culture. You’ll enjoy a special experience, authentic local knowledge and an adventure like no other.

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4.85 out of 5 from 6492 reviews. That’s pretty solid.

We could hang around all day telling you how wonderful our trips are... but the best people to hear it from are our guests themselves.