Breathtaking 6-Day Northern Lights Hunting Package of Iceland with Ice Caving

Above a beautiful lake in Iceland, emerald and violet Northern Lights dance across the sky.
Likely to sell out soon
Free cancellation
Perfect travel plan
Fully customizable

Description

Summary

Tour starts
Keflavík Airport
Starting time
Flexible
Duration
6 days
Ending place
Keflavík Airport
Languages
English
Difficulty
Easy
Available
Sept. - Mar.
Minimum age
8 years old

Description

Explore the wonders of Iceland in winter and hunt the northern lights with this 6-day travel package. Travelers wanting to visit the most sought-after sites in Iceland, bathe in the azure waters of the Blue Lagoon geothermal spa, explore the world-famous Golden Circle sightseeing route, and journey through Iceland's spectacular South Coast should book this winter vacation now.

Traveling in the country couldn't be more comfortable with this winter package. All accommodations, transportation, and guided visits to some of Iceland's best attractions will be managed for you, allowing you to travel easily and comfortably. Let us take care of the details while you focus on making fantastic memories, exploring Iceland's incredible landscapes, and hunting the mesmerizing aurora borealis. 

With this package, you'll explore the Golden Circle's famed attractions, travel the South Coast to the Jokulsarlon glacier lagoon, and enter a winter wonderland inside an authentic ice cave. You'll also get to hunt for the majestic northern lights every evening after dark, searching for this elusive natural phenomenon. You'll visit the famous Blue Lagoon to soak in the geothermal waters amid a volcanic landscape. 

Why not embrace more adventure to your trip by adding a mixture of thrilling experiences? You can take a ride on an Icelandic horse in the rugged terrains, snorkel in the rift between two continents at Thingvellir National Park, snowmobile through the white snowy expanse of Langjokull glacier, watch the whales breach off the shores of Reykjavik, or spend a day exploring the wild landscapes of the Snaefellsnes Peninsula.

Enjoy the perfect Iceland trip hassle-free with this package. It's affordable, covers the top attractions, and saves you time on planning. Experience Iceland's natural wonders and cultural gems and take away memories to last a lifetime.

There's no need to drive yourself. Professional drivers and guides will ensure your safety and provide valuable information. Travel comfortably in a minibus and admire the stunning landscapes.

Get a detailed itinerary upon booking, outlining exciting activities and breathtaking sights. Make the most of your time and create unforgettable memories.

A dedicated travel agent is available 24/7 to assist you, answer questions, and offer support throughout your trip.

Highly rated by satisfied customers, our package offers convenience, value, and exceptional service from knowledgeable guides and staff.

For flexibility, enjoy free cancellation and a full refund up to 24 hours before departure. Adjust your plans as needed.

Discover the wonders of Iceland in the wintertime with this fantastic 6-day tour, taking every chance to stand in awe under the northern lights! Check availability now by choosing a date.

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Included

Airport transfer on arrival/departure
4 nights of accommodation in Reykjavik (different levels available; breakfast included for Comfort and Quality levels; more detailed information below)
Golden Circle small group sightseeing tour in a minibus (upgrades available with other activities)
South Coast 2-day small group minibus tour with ice caving
1 night of accommodation in a country hotel in Vatnajokull National Park during the 2-day south coast tour (breakfast included, private bathroom depending on availability)
Northern lights hunting
Detailed itinerary
Personal travel agent
Taxes

Activities

Snorkelling
Caving
ATV
Snowmobile
Horse Riding
Whale Watching
Sightseeing
Boat Trip
Northern lights hunting
Hot Spring Bathing
Cultural Activity
Ice Caving

Daily itinerary

Day 1
Northern Lights tours are conducted on land and on sea, and both options provide a great chance of spotting the incredible auroras.

Day 1 - Arrival and Northern Lights

Welcome to the enchanting land of Iceland, where your adventure begins the moment you step out of the airport and embrace the crisp Icelandic winter weather. 

The journey from Keflavik International Airport to the vibrant capital city of Reykjavik promises awe-inspiring views of Iceland's rugged and volcanic landscape, setting the stage for an unforgettable experience.

You could stop at the world-famous Blue Lagoon geothermal spa on your way to Iceland's capital city. Nestled amidst a mystical moss-covered lava field, this geothermal spa is renowned for its healing mineral-rich waters, striking azure hues, and luxurious treatments. 

If you add the Blue Lagoon to your itinerary, it will be integrated into your travel plans, either upon arrival or on another day, depending on your flight schedule. Your dedicated travel consultant will handle all the arrangements to ensure a seamless experience.

Reykjavik, the vibrant heart of Iceland, awaits your exploration if you have extra free time.

Your accommodation has been thoughtfully selected for its prime location and utmost comfort, ensuring you're well-situated to delve into the city's charms. Take an evening stroll through Reykjavik's narrow and colorful streets, immersing yourself in the local culture, or embark on a culinary journey by indulging in the delectable offerings of bars, coffee shops, and cafes around the city.

If you like, you can take the complimentary northern lights boat tour today. Come aboard a lovely sightseeing ship from the Old Harbour by Harpa Concert Hall, and you'll be able to gaze up at the sky in hopes of seeing those fabulous sparkles of eerie color!

Alternatively, you can take a northern lights minibus tour to head out into the countryside under the cover of darkness and watch for glimmers of color against a backdrop of the Icelandic wilderness.

You'll spend the night in Reykjavik.

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Day 2
Gullfoss thunders into an ancient canyon, which in winter, becomes cloaked in thick layers of snow and ice.

Day 2 - The Golden Circle and Blue Lagoon

Today, you'll visit the famous attractions of the Golden Circle sightseeing route. These include Thingvellir National Park, the Geysir geothermal area, and the Gullfoss waterfall.

If you choose to go horseback riding, that will be at the start of your day before going to Thingvellir National Park. Thingvellir National Park was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its importance to world culture. 

The first parliament was founded in the valley in 930 AD. Viking chieftains would go to this beautiful place to discuss the law each year. They stood on the shores of Lake Thingvallavatn, just as you can. 

They, too, admired the silvery waters of Silfra fissure, which is popular today for snorkeling and diving. You can choose to join a snorkeling tour here yourself. Snorkeling participants need to be comfortable in the water and must be able to swim.

The gorge, which marks the division of tectonic plates, gets a bit wider each year due to the furious pressure of the earth. It only moves at a rate of 0.8 inches (2 centimeters) each year, so even though it was slightly narrower 1,000 years ago, the famous Vikings of the past may have walked where you are walking today!

The second stop on the Golden Circle is the Geysir geothermal area, made famous by the temperamental geysers blasting water high into the air. The furious pressure that drives them boils deep below the surface, making these explosions thrilling to behold. While Geysir is dormant after nearly 10,000 years of activity, Strokkur erupts every 10 minutes, shooting water as high as 131 feet (40 meters).

Also, there are more than 30 other hot springs, bubbling mud pots, and steaming vents here. Stroll the entire area to see how the water streams over the rocks and how the minerals make beautiful colors!

At Gullfoss waterfall, you can view the power of the water from glacial runoff as it shoots down the river, tumbles over the two-tiered falls, and crashes into the canyon below. The river's energy has made it a popular spot for white water rafting further down from the waterfall. You can feel the thunder in your fingers and toes as you walk along the path to the waterfall, where you can admire its power up close.

If snowmobiling is what you'd like to do today, then your snowmobile tour will take place on Langjokull glacier after visiting the Gullfoss waterfall.

On the way back to the city after the Golden Circle tour, you'll stop at the Blue Lagoon for a sensory experience unique to Iceland. Release all your tension, letting the azure water soothe tired muscles and joints.

Please note that if you have arranged additional activities with your Golden Circle tour, such as snorkeling, horseback riding, or snowmobiling, your visit to the Blue Lagoon will be scheduled on your arrival or departure day instead. The spa is world-famous for its healing, mineral-rich waters. This is not a place you want to rush.

You'll return to Reykjavik to relax from your busy day and enjoy another night in town before your next adventure.

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Day 3
A path fully surrounds the South Coast waterfall of Seljalandsfoss, which can be taken so long as the conditions are not too treacherous.

Day 3 - The South Coast

Today begins a two-day exploration of the beautiful yet wild South Coast, the most popular area for sightseeing in Iceland.

First, you'll enjoy a pair of enchanting waterfalls. Seljalandsfoss is nestled on a cliff that rises out of the hillside. A path goes directly behind the falls so that you may look at the landscape under a veil of sparkling icicles and running water. Take care not to slip on the icy ground!

Next, visit Skogafoss waterfall, a high and broad waterfall rumored to hide buried treasure in its misty pool. It also features rainbows on sunny days, adding to its outstanding beauty.

Next is the infamous Reynisfjara beach, a place of pearly frost and black sand. It's surrounded by black basalt that forms the cliffs and stands out in the sea in majestic columns while the waves crash on the shore. This location is dramatically beautiful but dangerous in return. Visitors should always keep a distance of about 66-98 feet (20-30 meters) from the unpredictable waves.

After that, you'll visit Skaftafell National Park, a popular hiking and camping area beside the largest glacier in Iceland, Vatnajokull. Iceland's highest peak, Hvannadalshnukur (or Hvannadalshnjukur), is visible from the hiking trails, rising to 6,992 feet (2,110 meters).

Finally, you'll go to the Jokulsarlon glacier lagoon, where chunks of ice break off the Breidamerkurjokull glacier in the distance, washed away by meltwater to this lagoon before finally floating out to sea.

The ice is untouched by the UV rays, which turn the surfaces blinding white, leaving a pure blue color on the underside. Seals play on the ice, and gulls wheel overhead, creating a lovely display. Chunks of ice on the nearby Diamond Beach wash up on the black sand and lie sparkling in the sun.

You'll spend the night in a cozy country hotel in Southeast Iceland, an area with a spectacular location to hunt for the northern lights.

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Day 4
Helmets and crampons are required for ice caving, so wear thin hats and decent hiking shoes.

Day 4 - Deep Inside the Ice Cave

You'll begin this day by hopping into a specially modified super jeep, transporting you to your next adventure: exploring a natural blue ice cave beneath the Vatnajokull glacier. A short hike through the crisp winter air awaits, so wear sturdy hiking boots that provide ankle coverage. Keeping your feet dry and comfortable throughout the cave exploration is essential.

Specialists who search the countryside for safe and stunning formations discover these remarkable ice caves each autumn. Inside the cave, you'll be surrounded by walls of transparent blue ice adorned with delicate frost and intricate ice sculptures. 

Each cave is a unique work of art, constantly changing as the weather affects the ice, ensuring that no two caves are alike. Even if you've experienced ice caves before, this encounter promises to be one-of-a-kind.

Take your time to absorb the ethereal beauty within the ice cave, spending approximately 45 minutes immersed in this magical environment. Remember to dress warmly for the chilly conditions. Your guide will give you a helmet, so opt for a winter hat that fits comfortably underneath.

Before returning to Reykjavik for the evening, you'll make a second stop at Jokulsarlon glacier lagoon. Witness how the lagoon transforms in the midday light, revealing an even greater array of colors and stunning ice formations. Keep an eye out for seals basking on the icebergs, adding to the allure of the lagoon.

As you return to Reykjavik, your guide will look for the elusive northern lights. If these ethereal lights grace the night sky, a stop will be made to witness their captivating dance.

Spend your night in Reykjavik, reflecting on the extraordinary experiences and natural wonders encountered throughout the day. 

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Day 5
The Snaefellsnes Peninsula, or 'Iceland in Miniature' as it is otherwise known, is beautiful throughout the year, but somewhat more mystical in midwinter.

Day 5 - Your Choice: Reykjavik or Snaefellsnes Peninsula

Day five can be spent sightseeing around the Snaefellsnes Peninsula or in Reykjavik.

The Snaefellsnes Peninsula is often called 'Iceland in miniature' due to its diverse attractions. Here, you can see the subglacial volcano of Snaefellsjokull and the national park surrounding it. Marvel at the dramatic Mount Kirkjufell, Ytri Tunga and Djupalonssandur beaches, and many other sites.

Those eager to see as much natural beauty as possible on their travels will not regret this choice.

Otherwise, you can immerse yourself in the culture of Reykjavik. Though you can spend all day sightseeing in the capital of Iceland, there are plenty of add-ons you can choose to make your experience more memorable.

Firstly, you can book admission to the Perlan exhibition, an incredible museum with interactive exhibits on glaciers, puffin-watching cliffs, volcanoes, and more. The viewing platform here also offers some of the best panoramas in the city.

Alternatively, you can enjoy the FlyOver Iceland experience. This simulation will suspend you over a giant screen showing Icelandic landscapes, complete with wind and scent effects, to provide the feeling that you are flying over the country's most incredible areas.

A third option is to visit the Sky Lagoon, a breathtaking geothermal spa with an infinity pool and sauna overlooking the ocean. This spa has a seven-step ritual to help you rejuvenate.

Those interested in Reykjavik culture can choose the fourth option, a two-hour walking tour through the capital's historic sites with a local guide. This excursion includes a traditional Icelandic lunch, particularly appealing to foodies.

If you're not finished with adventure, you can alternatively go on a one-hour ATV ride in nature outside Reykjavik. This exciting tour lets you get your adrenaline pumping as you marvel over dramatic lava landscapes.

You can also go whale-watching from the harbor. Even in winter, you can see dolphins, porpoises, and minke whales in the beautiful waters outside the city. 

Your final option is a 24-hour Reykjavik City Card, which will provide free entry and discounts to many museums, galleries, and pools across the capital. This card is an excellent option for those who plan to pack many city attractions into their day.

Otherwise, make the most of your time in the capital by spending the day sightseeing in Reykjavik. There's plenty to explore, from the Sun Voyager sculpture of a Viking ship by the harbor to the historic parliament buildings just off the main shopping street.

Hallgrimskirkja church and the Harpa Concert Hall are also highly recommended sites.

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Day 6
A snow-covered park in Reykjavik during winter.

Day 6 - Farewell to Iceland

Take the convenient airport shuttle from your hotel to Keflavik International Airport on your final day in Iceland. 

If you have a later flight, consider visiting the renowned Blue Lagoon geothermal spa to unwind before departure. Immerse yourself in the warm, mineral-rich waters, reflecting on the incredible adventure you've had in the land of fire and ice. Let the soothing ambiance and rejuvenating properties of the Blue Lagoon provide a perfect conclusion to your Icelandic journey.

Alternatively, if your flight departs later in the day, take the opportunity to explore the vibrant city of Reykjavik. Discover its charming streets, visit local museums and galleries, or indulge in the city's renowned culinary scene. There's no shortage of activities to keep you engaged and entertained.

Finally, as you bid farewell to Iceland, we wish you a pleasant journey home. Reflect on the unforgettable memories you've created and cherish your experiences. Have a wonderful flight, and remember to come back soon to continue your exploration of this remarkable country.

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What to bring

Camera
Swimsuit
Warm clothes
Winter hiking shoes
Good waterproof outer layers

Good to know

The northern lights are a natural phenomenon and, therefore, cannot be guaranteed, but this itinerary is designed to maximize your chances to see them if the weather allows. Please know that your itinerary may have to be rearranged to fit your arrival date and time better.

Some optional activities might need a valid driver's license, or you might need to send additional information to your travel planner. Those who opt to go snorkeling must be comfortable in the water, must be able to swim, and must present medical documents before snorkeling or diving.

It can happen, in the case of extreme weather, that an activity is canceled. If your chosen activity is canceled, you will be assisted with rearranging or booking other activities when possible, and any potential price difference will be refunded to you.

Note that Icelandic roads and pavements can be slippery in the wintertime. You should bring shoes with slip-resistant soles or ice-grip shoe covers. The covers can be purchased in most supermarkets and gas stations nationwide.

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Accommodation in Reykjavik

See our accommodation levels below and our preferred accommodation partners under each day in the daily itinerary. Super budget level accommodations will be arranged in hostel dorm beds. For budget and comfort levels, bookings for one person will be arranged in single rooms, and bookings for two or more people will share a twin/double or triple room(s). For quality level, odd number groups will always be allocated a single room. If you are travelling in a group, but prefer a single room, please make separate bookings. Teenagers and children will be arranged in the same room with parents. If additional room(s) is needed, additional costs will incur.

For multi-day guided tours, accommodation cannot be upgraded and the levels below do not apply. Guide to Iceland will provide you with the best available accommodation at the time of your booking from our preferred partners. If our preferred partners are fully booked at the time of your booking, we will find another suitable accommodation for you of similar level.

We always do our best to accommodate special requests, which may incur additional costs. Press choose a date to find availability.

Super Budget

Dormitory beds with shared bathrooms in guesthouses or hostels, such as HI Hostels. Located in the capital region. Breakfast is not included.

Budget

Private rooms with shared bathroom in guesthouses or hostels such as Capital Inn Guesthouse. Located in the capital region. Breakfast is not included.

Comfort

Rooms with a private bathroom at three-star hotels such as Hótel Klettur, or quality guesthouses. Located in the city center or in close vicinity. Breakfast is included.

Quality

Rooms at four-star design hotels in the city center with a private bathroom at the absolute best locations downtown such as Hotel Alda. Breakfast is included.

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