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
Price
USD $9499/per adult
Next available departure
16 Jun - 26 Jun
Activity Level 1
What's The Rush?
I'm active and in decent shape and not looking to experience a place just through a bus window. I'm happy to slow down on the trail, soak it in and breathe in the fresh air.
Walking: 2-3 hours per day on gentle-gradient trails.
Other activities: On these trips, you'll be taking part in a range of other activities that focus less on building up a sweat and more on enjoying the finer things in life.
Activity Level 2
On the Move
Sure, I own some hiking boots, they're even worn in, but they don't go on long trips. I like my creature comforts and I like to give a range of activities a go.
Walking: 2-4 hours per day on gentle to moderate gradient trails. No multi-day hikes.
Biking: 1-3 hours, cruisy rides achievable by anyone, even first-timers. Kayaking: 1-3 hours, entry-level sea kayaking with specialist guides and stable boats.
Other activities (i.e. snorkeling): Always optional and very little exertion required. A highlight for many!
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.
Hiking: Typically, 3-6 hours per day on well-formed backcountry trails. Expect some significant gradient inclines and declines.
Altitude: Your trip may include some moderate altitude areas, though these don't form the focus of the trip and are generally manageable.
Biking: 1-3 hours on well-formed paths or roads where you can expect some hills with moderate climbs and descents.
Kayaking: 1-3 hours, entry-level sea kayaking with specialist guides and stable boats.
Other activities (i.e. caving): Always optional and very little exertion required. A highlight for many!
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.
Hiking / Trekking: Typically, 4–6-hour hikes with options for more, sometimes with limited or no vehicle support and nearly always with ascents and descents.
Altitude: Some trips at this level will reach a significant altitude. We are here to help you manage that and make your experience one to cherish for a lifetime.
Biking & Kayaking: If one, or both, of these activities are 'your thing,' there are trip options in this range, allowing you to be on two wheels or with a paddle in your hand for most of the day.
Activity Level 5
The Upper Limit
I'm ready to put in the hard work to reap the rewards. I'm a seasoned adventurer, not afraid to get my boots wet.
Trekking & Altitude: This is classic trekking, at altitude. Some might even call it 'expedition-style.' We've had folks from all walks of life achieve their dreams on our grade 5 trips, so if you're in for a challenge get in touch to find out if this is for you.
There's no doubt you'll be left speechless as you roam Iceland's vast landscapes on our 11-day Ultimate Iceland Adventure. With local experts leading the way, you'll hike to view puffins ('Lundi'), explore a lagoon in Vatnajökull National Park, and admire Öxaràrfoss, Gullfoss and Skógafoss waterfalls. While it's no secret that Iceland is a feast for the eyes, what you may not know is how fascinating Icelandic people are. You'll witness their self-sufficiency and learn about their proud Viking heritage. In fact, their language today is very similar to what it was during the Viking Age! Iceland is commonly ranked as one of the happiest nations in the world, so prepare to have this attitude rub off when you're out and about exploring with the locals. Especially after enjoying a three-day hike through the Eastern Fjords, staying in stunning cabins, and indulging in hearty Icelandic cuisine.
Get a print-friendly PDF version of this itinerary - you will also get a copy in your inbox!
Eldfell Volcano
Hiking
To wild puffin colonies
Hiking
Multi-day Fjord hike
Hiking
Reykjavík “Smokey Bay”
Plus ...
Þingvellir & Vatnajökull National Parks
Plus ...
Vestmannaeyjar Islands
Plus ...
Iceland's famous waterfalls
Plus ...
Jökulsárlón Lagoon
Plus ...
Our Trip Itinerary contains all the exciting details you can expect to do on our trips. Get a clear picture of the adventures on this trip.
DOWNLOAD ITINERARY PDFDay 1
Our trip begins in Reykjavík, the world’s northernmost capital and Iceland’s cultural hub. If you’ve flown in this morning, you’ll be free to make your own way from Keflavík International Airport to the city. Bear in mind you won't be able to check in to your hotel until 2 pm, so we recommend unwinding after your flight at the famous Blue Lagoon hot pools that are on the way to Reykjavík - remember to keep your swimwear handy! After dropping your bags at the hotel you’ll have some free time to take in the vibrant streets - grab some last-minute gear at the many outdoor clothing stores or explore the harbor. Later, we’ll all meet at the hotel bar for a trip briefing and a welcome drink, where you’ll get to know your fellow travelers and guides before having a delicious meal in a local restaurant. You might find your first evening a little strange, to be strolling around in daylight!
Hotel Reykjavik Centrum, Reykjavík (Dinner)
Day 2
Today the adventure really begins, as we head northeast to Þingvellir National Park, home to Iceland’s first National Assembly. We’ll stretch our legs at our first waterfall called Öxàrarfoss (‘foss’ is Icelandic for waterfall). As strange as it may sound, this is actually a human-made waterfall, as the water was diverted, back in the 9th Century, to provide members and visitors of the Icelandic parliament ‘Althingi’ with water. There are further fascinating folklores about this region that you’ll soon discover! After enjoying a traditional Icelandic meat soup for lunch we’ll continue towards the highlands, with stops to learn about Iceland’s Laugarvatan cave people, and view the original Geysir Nature Reserve and the Gullfoss waterfall.
Flúðir Hótel, Flúðir (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
Hiking: We'll explore the Nature Reserve, so do as much or as little as you like.
Day 3
This morning we’ll journey south down the coast to board a ferry. Our scenic crossing takes us to the bustling fishing port of Haeimaey, the only inhabited island in the Vestmannaeyjar archipelago. This tiny island hosts a recent, rich volcanic history that we’ll learn about at the world-class Eldheimar Exhibition. After fuelling up the body we’ll experience the lava fields with a volcanic hike to the Eldfell peak. At the top, you’ll be rewarded with views across to the mainland and a further appreciation for the 1973 eruption.
Hótel Vestmannaeyjar, Vestmannaeyjar (Breakfast, Dinner)
Hiking: 2 kilometers (1.2 miles), 2-3 hours, elevation +/- 200 meters (656 feet)
Hiking: Optional Hike: 1.5 kilometers (0.9 miles), 0.5-1 hour, elevation +/- 200 meters (656 feet)
Hiking: Optional Hike: 1.8 kilometers (1.1 miles), 0.5-1 hour, elevation +/- 150 meters (492 feet)
Day 4
After returning to the mainland we’ll take a hike to the top of Iceland’s most famous and spectacular waterfalls; first to Seljalandsfoss (where we can also walk behind the falls) and then to Skógafoss. After lunch, we’ll hunt for stone trolls along the wild and beautiful South Coast - these trolls occupy an immense portion of Icelandic folklore, described as big, stupid, and greedy, but sometimes kind and wise... Our journey continues alongside the soaring sea cliffs and moss-covered lava fields, where we’ll be able to see the infamous E15 ‘Eyjafjallajökull’ Volcano, Vatnajökull ice cap, and its outlet glaciers. Tonight, we’ll relax in a wonderful, locally-run guesthouse.
Fosshotel Glacier Lagoon, Öraefi (Breakfast, Dinner)
Hiking: 0.5 kilometers (0.3 miles), 0.5-1 hour, elevation +/- 20 meters (65 feet)
Hiking: 5 kilometers (3 miles), 1-2 hours, elevation +/- 90 meters (300 feet)
Day 5
Pack your binoculars this morning as we’re looking for ‘Lundi’, also known as puffin, Iceland’s iconic and beloved bird. As we hike the high sea cliffs of the Ingólfshöfði headland we’ll also catch glimpses of guillemots and skuas. Please note, in September the puffins will have gone out to sea. However, we'll still enjoy this adventurous hike. After our hike and a bite to eat, we’ll head off to view yet another waterfall, known as Svartifoss, where nearby there are views across Falljökull Glacier, where you can opt (at time of trip booking) to hike on the glacier with specialist guides (extra fee applies). Afterward, we’ll regroup and head back to our accommodation, for another relaxing evening.
Fosshotel Glacier Lagoon, Öraefi (Breakfast, Dinner)
Hiking: 3 kilometers (1.9 miles), 2.5-3 hours, elevation +/- 200 meters (656 feet)
Hiking: 5.5 kilometers (3.4 miles), 1-2 hours, elevation +/- 100 meters (324 feet)
Notes: Optional Ice hike on Falljökull Glacier (extra fee applies): An alternative option to the afternoon's waterfall hike is to strap on crampons, pick up an ice axe and hike on the Falljökull Glacier! Led by specialist glacier guides you’ll explore amazing ice formations checking out the crevasses, seracs, tunnels, and pools of glacial meltwater - no previous experience is required! The constant movement of the glacier means every day is different, so your guides will cut steps in the ice and make sure you make the most of the conditions. The ice hike is popular, so this option must be selected at the time of booking.
Day 6
After breakfast we'll take a short drive to the hidden canyon Múlagljúfur where we'll hike along this magnificent canyon to visit two beautiful waterfalls Hangandifoss and Múlafoss, offering breathtaking views along the way. After the hike we'll enjoy lunch then make our way to Jökulsárlón Lagoon, a photographer’s dream, and a spot where you may see seals playing amongst the icebergs. After hiking the entire length of Iceland’s shortest river (blink and you’ll miss it), we’ll end up on the beach surrounded by stranded icebergs. We continue to the small town of Höfn for dinner and overnight.
Berjaya Iceland Hotels (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
Hiking: Iceland's shortest river, around 2-3 hours
Hiking: Múlagljúfur Canyon, 5.7 kilometers (3.6 miles), Elevation + 367 meters (1,204 feet), 3 hours
Notes: If you're short on time, this is where the 7-day 'Classic Iceland Adventure' finishes.
Day 7
This morning we’ll journey northeast to the small town of Egilsstaðir. We’ll continue onto the deep fjord, the harbor of the coastal village of Seydisfjordur, to begin the multi-day hike on the Víknaslóðir hiking trail. Set out over green mountains and plateaus, we’ll hike down to the uninhabited Lodmundarfjordur, which was, for many years, one of the most isolated and inaccessible communities in Iceland. Tonight we’ll be in one of Iceland’s charming backcountry cabins, our first along the trail, and we’ll be warmed by the log fire that keeps this cabin cozy!
Loðmundafjörður hut (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
Hiking: 15.2 kilometers (9.5 miles), 5-7 hours, elevation +/- 600 meters (1970 feet)
Day 8
Our day will start with a walk to the old chapel at the foot of the beautiful fjord, then we’ll continue along the north seashore of Lodmundarfjordur. Loðmundarfjorður fjord is an impressive valley, that, at the turn of the 20th century, was home to 100 people thanks to rich farmlands and accessible fishing grounds. The hike leads through the massive Loðmundarskriður, formed thousands of years ago when the adjacent mountain literally burst forth. Situated in the southernmost creek of the Víknaslóðir hiking trail, at the foot of the Skælingur Peak. For those still with energy, there’s another optional walk after dinner, down to the beach to visit a quaint church that was in service until the seventies.
Húsavík Cabin, Inlet Húsavík (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
Hiking: 15 kilometers (9.3 miles), 5-6 hours, elevation +/- 600 meters (1,970 feet)
Day 9
We continue south this morning, over another low mountain range towards Inlet Húsavík. If weather permits today, we’ll take a side hike up Mount Hvítserkur, a peak that certainly stands out in this region, with its light-colored grey/yellow. This is a challenging, optional hike, though offers the best way to soak in the views of the Eastern Fjord! This afternoon we end up in another deserted inlet known as Breiðavík, where we can enjoy the calm lapping of the Atlantic waves on this stunning and colorful beach. The only building in the area is our cozy home for the evening, a backcountry cabin in a stunning green valley, surrounded by rhyolite hills. You’ll be blown away by the emptiness of this place, and if you're here later in the season, the starry night sky - you won't find light pollution out here!
Breiðavík Cabin, Inlet Breiðavík (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
Hiking: 13 kilometers (8 miles), 5-7 hours, elevation +/- 550 meters (1,804 feet)
Day 10
On this last day, we‘ll hike out of Breidavik inlet, toward the picturesque little village of Borgarfjörður Eystri. After a decent hike, we'll continue via vehicle and take time to explore the puffin colony at Hafnarhólmi once we arrive. Nearly 10,000 pairs of puffins nest every summer here and this is probably the easiest and safest place to watch puffins in Iceland. We’ll take the short drive back to Egilsstaðir (the village we passed through a few days ago). Believe it or not, there’s actually an airport here, so after some refreshments, we’ll take a short 1-hour flight back to Reykjavík. We’ll be staying back in the Hotel Reykjavik Centrum, which as the name suggests, is centrally located, meaning you’ll have a final chance to easily explore this vibrant and small city. We’ll share our last night’s meal together at a local restaurant - a perfect opportunity to relive the adventures shared together with new-found friends.
Hotel Reykjavik Centrum, Reykjavik (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
Hiking: 10 kilometers (6 miles), 3-4 hours, elevation +/- 380 meters (1,246 feet)
Day 11
This morning breakfast will be provided at the hotel, and if you’re flying home today you're free to make your own way to the Keflavík International Airport.
No Accommodation (Breakfast)
Get in touch with our specialized team to find out more and get personalized advice.
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You’ll be inspired and exhilarated, enjoying mind-blowing scenery on foot, in a sea kayak, or by bike - all at your own pace.
We're proud of our New Zealand roots and you’ll love our professional and warm style of hosting. We’re always here to help with planning... even hiking boot recommendations!
We've got everything covered – top-notch meals, comfortable transport, superb accommodation, amazing guides and INCREDIBLE service.
With an average of 12 guests per departure and an industry-leading average 6:1 guest-to-guide ratio, you'll get to know your fellow travelers and have the flexibility to go at your own pace.
All our carefully selected guides are highly experienced and have deep personal connections to nature and culture. You’ll enjoy an authentic local experience.
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.
