Top things to do in Iceland
Book your complete trip with the best companies only
Guide to Iceland
Address
Start an adventure with a 5-day journey in Iceland. Visit the Golden Circle, South Coast, Blue Lagoon and an authentic Ice Cave with this all-encompassing winter package. Your five days will be full of Icelandic culture, history and the unforgettable, snowy landscapes that make Iceland the perfect winter destination.
Those wanting to travel with ease and comfort to Iceland's best sights should not miss this winter package. This trip includes all your accommodation, transportation, and visits to incredible natural attractions with a knowledgeable guide. You only need to show up and get ready to have the time of your life in Iceland.
With this winter package, you'll not only get to relax in the Blue Lagoon Spa and visit the famous Golden Circle, but you'll also journey down to the South Coast, as far as Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon and Vatnajökull National Park where you'll visit an incredibly rare and natural blue ice cave.
You’ll explore the otherworldly blue ice cave by driving onto Vatnajökull, Iceland’s largest glacier. Your guide will then take you inside, where you can discover every crevice of the ice cave which will change each year with the movement of the glacier. It’s one of the most stunning natural wonders of Iceland.
You'll also get to hunt for the beautiful Aurora Borealis with a complimentary Northern Lights tour where you'll be either driven to the Icelandic countryside or sail out to the ocean in search of the dancing lights.
And if you'd like to add more adventures to this action-packed winter journey, you can opt for tours where you'll snowmobile on a glacier, snorkel between continents or ride around Iceland's wild rugged terrains on an Icelandic horse.
Don't hesitate. Reserve this all-in-one winter package now! Discover the stunning Icelandic landscape while the elusive Northern Lights dance in the sky above you.
Check availability by choosing a date and book your Iceland adventure.
The Blue Lagoon is a geothermal spa found on the Reykjanes Peninsula in southwest Iceland. It is the most popular attraction in Iceland, drawing people from all across the world.
The Blue Lagoon is just a fifteen-minute drive from Keflavík International Airport, or a thirty-minute drive from Reykjavík, making it easy to reach for those who rent a car or join a Blue Lagoon tour. It is thus often visited straight after arrival to the country or right before departure, particularly those who taking guided packages and self-drive tours, such as this 6-Day Vacation and 10-Day Road Trip.
There are few better ways to recharge after a long-flight or action-packed holiday.
The Blue Lagoon started as a pool of wastewater from the Svartsengi geothermal plant in 1976. The first person to bathe there was Valur Margeirsson in 1981. He was met with some resistance prior to taking the first dip as people thought he was mad for wanting to bath in a "blue mud pool". He and others soon began to notice the unusual but remarkable healing qualities of the azure waters.
Those with conditions such as psoriasis found the waters immediately soothing for their condition. News quickly spread, and by 1987, the first swimming facilities were officially opened.
Since then, the establishment has only grown, from an open pool with no surrounding buildings to a luxurious spa, research centre and pair of hotels.
The Blue Lagoon is considered to have such notable regenerative qualities because the water is rich in silica and sulphur. A research and development facility on site finds cures and remedies for skin ailments, and silica mud is available for free on the sides of the pool for guests to enjoy a face-mask.
The temperature in the bathing and swimming area is very comfortable, averaging 37–39° C (98–102° F). The Blue Lagoon also boasts the LAVA Restaurant, the Blue Café and the Lagoon Spa: you can thus enjoy cocktails, health products, delicious meals and treatments such as massages without leaving the premises. Saunas, steam rooms and a small waterfall are also on site.
For all of these reasons and more, the Blue Lagoon is considered to be one of the most enjoyable and romantic spots in the country. It is surrounded by a plethora of fantastic volcanic landscapes, and the water itself is opaque and vividly blue. Rising pillars of steam only add to the spa’s fantastic ambience.
The Blue Lagoon Spa is open throughout the year, and popular in every season. Due to the fact it has a maximum capacity for the comfort of its guests, it is essential that you book several months in advance to ensure your space. The vast majority of the time, you will be turned away at the door without a reservation.
More self-conscious guests might want to be aware that it is a requirement to shower naked in public before entering the lagoon, to ensure that the highest hygiene standards are maintained. Though uncomfortable for some, nudity has little taboo in Icelandic culture, so worry not; no-one’s looking.
Those who are travelling on a budget will note that the Blue Lagoon is quite pricey. There are other smaller spas and pools that can be entered for less, such as the Fontana Spa, Secret Lagoon, Mývatn Nature Baths and Krauma Spa. Of course, natural hot pools are free to enter.
For more information, you can read articles on the best pools in the country and the best natural hot springs.
The Golden Circle is a 300 kilometre (186 mile) route to the three most popular natural attractions in Iceland: the Geysir Geothermal Area, Gullfoss Waterfall and Þingvellir National Park.
With its popularity, the trail is featured in many guided packages, including this immersive 6-Day Winter Package, and self-drive tours, such as this 10-Day Road Trip. It is easy to do within half a day by those who join a Golden Circle tour or rent a car.
Many of these excursions have additional activities, such as snorkelling or snowmobiling, or are conducted in a unique style, such as by helicopter, or under the midnight sun.
Within the three locations of the Golden Circle are some of the clearest examples of Iceland’s fascinating geological forces, magnificent landscapes, and rich culture.
The Geysir Geothermal Area is a hot-spring haven in Haukadalur Valley. As could be guessed, it is home to a famous geyser, the name of which has named all others: Geysir itself.
Though this feature is currently in a phase of inactivity, its neighbour Strokkur more than makes up for it. Every five to ten minutes, it blasts a column of boiling water to heights that can reach over 40 metres (131 feet).
The surrounding area is dotted with fumaroles, hot springs, and mud-pits. There are also two other smaller geysers, Smiður and Litlí-Strokkur, that can be easily visited, as well as a hotel, restaurant, cafe and gift shop across the road.
The 'Golden Waterfall', Gullfoss one of the most beautiful and powerful waterfalls in Iceland, plummeting 32 metres (105 feet) in two tiers into the river gorge of the popular rafting river Hvítá. It is just a ten-minute drive from Geysir and is the furthest point on the Golden Circle from Reykjavík.
Gullfoss was very almost lost in the early 20th century when British developers sought to harness its incredible power for geothermal energy. Though they got the lease to the land, allowing them to go ahead with their plans, they met an unlikely adversary: the daughter of the farmer who owned it, Sigríður Tómasdóttir.
This resilient woman refused to see the waterfall, to which she and her sisters paved the first path, destroyed. She, therefore, walked over 200 kilometres (124 miles) to Reykjavík and back multiple times to meet with a lawyer in order to help change the decision.
Though the process was arduous and took years, eventually Sigríður managed to exhaust the resources of the businessmen and they withdrew their plans. Because of her, all Icelandic waterfalls are now protected from foreign investors, and she is considered one of Iceland’s first environmentalists and most important historical people.
The largest attraction of the Golden Circle is Þingvellir National Park. The Icelandic parliament was founded here in 930 and remained until the year 1798 before moving to Reykjavík, making it the original site of what is now the world’s longest ongoing parliament.
Today it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most important places to visit in Iceland. This is not just for its historical and cultural values, but for also its magnificent landscape and dramatic geology.
Þingvellir is surrounded by a beautiful mountain and volcanic ranges, as it is located in a rift valley directly between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates. This makes it one of the few places in the world where you can walk between the continents, in the Mid-Atlantic Rift.
The daring and qualified even have opportunities to snorkel or scuba dive in this no-mans-land, in a ravine filled with crystal-clear spring water called Silfra. The visibility here can exceed 100 metres (328 feet), revealing incredible geological sites. Though it never freezes over due to the constant flow of water into it, it is 2°C (35°C) throughout the year, thus underwater explorers are always equipped with protective suits.
Other sites of note are the magnificent Almannagjá gorge, which you can walk down into to reach the rift valley from the North American tectonic plate, and the beautiful lake Þingvallavatn, the largest lake in Iceland, which gleams to the south of the National Park.
Due to its convenient location in south-west Iceland, it is easy to visit the Golden Circle alongside with many other sites. Those seeking relaxation could head to the Secret Lagoon in Flúðir or Fontana Spa in Laugarvatn, those seeking adventure could book a trip to the ice tunnels of Langjökull glacier, and those seeking culture could visit the Sólheimar ecovillage. For more natural beauty, you can visit the nearby Kerið crater lake.
There are many tours that include such bonuses, but if driving yourself, you should check out this guide to great detours off the Golden Circle.
Reykjavík is the capital of Iceland and the northernmost capital of any sovereign state in the world.
Browse a large range of Reykjavik tours to learn more about the city.
Despite a small population (approximately 120,000, with just over 200,000 in the Greater Reykjavík area), it is a vibrant city that draws an ever increasing number of visitors every year. It is the financial, cultural and political centre of Iceland, and has a reputation of being one of the cleanest and safest cities in the world.
The city of Reykjavík is located in southwest Iceland by Faxaflói Bay. Throughout the ages, the landscape has been shaped by glaciers, earthquakes and volcanic eruptions and the area is geothermal; after all, its name translates to ‘Smoky Bay’.
Much of the current city area was subglacial during the Ice Age, with the glacier reaching as far as the Álftanes peninsula, while other areas lay under the sea. After the end of the Ice Age, the land rose as the glaciers drifted away, and it began to take on its present form.
The coastline of Reykjavík is set with peninsulas, coves, straits and islands, most notably the island of Viðey, and seabirds and whales frequent the shores. The mountain ring as seen from the shore is particularly beautiful.
Mount Esjan is the highest mountain in the vicinity of Reykjavík and the most distinctive feature of the coastline. This majestic summit is also highly popular amongst hikers and climbers. Other notable mountains that can be seen from the seaside are Akrafjall and Skarðsheiði.
On clear days, one may even see as far to the legendary Snæfellsjökull glacier, at the end of the Snæfellsnes peninsula.
The largest river to run through the city is Elliðaá in Elliðaárdalur valley, which is also one of Iceland’s best rivers for salmon fishing.
There are no trains or trams in Iceland, but most people travel by car. The city also operates a bus system. There are two major harbours in town, the old harbour in the centre and Sundahöfn in the east.
The domestic Reykjavík Airport is located at Vatnsmýrin, not far from the city centre and close to the hill Öskjuhlíð and the restaurant, vantage point and exhibition centre Perlan. The international Keflavík Airport at Miðnesheiði heath then lies around 50 kilometres (31 miles) from the city.
Cars, jeeps and bicycles can be readily rented in the city and many organized tours are also being offered. It is, however, quite easy to walk between the major sites.
The local arts scene is strong in Iceland, with annual events and festivals, many of artists from which have hit the international stage.
Major events taking place in Reykjavík include Iceland Airwaves, Reykjavík Pride, RIFF (The Reykjavík International Film Festival), The Reykjavík Literature Festival, Culture Night, the Reykjavík Arts Festival, Food & Fun, the Reykjavík Fashion Festival and the Sónar music festival.
Amongst the famous people from Reykjavík are musicians like Björk Guðmundsdóttir and Sigur Rós, and writers Halldór Laxness (born on the main street, Laugavegur) and Arnaldur Indriðason.
Those eager to soak up the local culture should visit the city’s many museums, exhibitions and galleries, and check out live music at the cafés, bars, and concert venues dotted around. You could look at the programmes of what’s on at the Harpa music hall or the theatres, or else plan a few hours at the lighthouse at Grótta, the shopping street of Laugavegur, or the old harbour and the flea market.
You could even book a bird- and whale watching tour or a visit to Viðey island. There are a lot of things to do and the possibilities are endless.
Make sure to visit the public square of Austurvöllur, one of the city’s most popular gathering places, where you’ll also find the national parliament, the Alþingi, as well as the state church, a statue of independence hero Jón Sigurðsson, cafés, bars and restaurants.
Austurvöllur was central in the protests following the banking collapse of 2008, along with Lækjargata, home to the House of Government. You are also not likely to miss the great church of Hallgrímskirkja that towers over the city from the hill of Skólavörðuholt, from which you’ll get a great view of the city.
Try a walk by the city pond, Tjörnin, to greet the many birds that frequent the area and to visit the city hall, stationed by its banks. A beautiful park lies by the pond, ideal for a nice walk, and sometimes concerts get held there.
Further off is the campus of the University of Iceland, the Nordic house and the Vatnsmýrin wetland, a particularly pleasant place, but be mindful to not disturb the wildlife there by keeping to the pathways.
For a nice swim on a warm day, we particularly recommend Nauthólsvík beach, which is heated with geothermal water. Those who love a dip should also visit the Laugardalur valley, home to one of the city’s best swimming pools, which sits a short walk away from Ásmundarsafn gallery, a beautiful botanical garden and a domestic zoo.
A walk by the Ægissíða beach, with its old fishing sheds, in the west part of Reykjavík also holds a particular charm. From there, you can see all the way to president’s house at Bessastaðir, which is also a historical site in its own right, having been the educational centre of Iceland for centuries.
Another place that offers one of the city’s best views is Perlan, up on Öskjuhlíð hill. The hill itself is a popular place to spend a few hours, with over 176,000 trees and great opportunities for walking and cycling. Perlan also has and observation deck with great views, a café and an exhibition centre.
Furthermore, the city is a short drive from many of Iceland’s major attractions, most famously the Golden Circle and the Blue Lagoon. In close vicinity you’ll also find the Heiðmörk preservation area, a favourite local site of the people of Reykjavík, as well as the Blue Mountains, one of Iceland’s best skiing venues.
Finally, we’d like to stress that these are only some suggestions of the many things you might check out in Reykjavík. Whatever you choose to do, we hope you’ll be able to make the most of your visit and we wish you a pleasant stay in our capital.
Jökulsárlón is Iceland’s most famous glacier lagoon. Conveniently located in the southeast by Route 1, about halfway between the Skaftafell Nature Reserve and Höfn, it is a popular stop for those travelling along the South Coast or around the Ring Road of the country.
This beautiful location is the highlight of many self-drive tours and guided packages; both this 10-Day Summer Road Trip and 6-Day Summer Vacation feature it. Those renting a car can also access it in the south-east of the country. Alternatively, take a tour of Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon.
As a glacier lagoon, Jökulsárlón is a lake that is filled with the meltwater from an outlet glacier. In this case, it is Breiðamerkurjökull, a tongue of Europe’s largest ice cap, Vatnajökull.
It stands out, however, due to the fact that it also fills with icebergs breaking from the glacier, some of which tower several stories high.
These icebergs, other than their scale, are notable for their colouration. Although they are, as expected, largely white, most are also dyed electric blue in part, with black streaks of ash from eruptions centuries past.
When the icebergs finally make it across the lagoon, they either drift out to sea or wash up on the nearby shore. Because of the way they glisten against the black sands of Breiðamerkursandur, this area has been nicknamed ‘the Diamond Beach’.
In spite of being a rather recent formation, Jökulsárlón is the deepest lake in the country, with depths of 248 metres (814 feet). With a surface area of 18 square kilometres (7 square miles), it is also growing to be one of the largest.
Jökulsárlón has not been around since Iceland’s settlement; it only formed around 1935. This was due to rapidly rising temperatures in the country from the turn of the twentieth century; since 1920, Breiðamerkurjökull has been shrinking at a dramatic rate, and the lagoon has begun to fill its space.
Today, the expansion of Jökulsárlón is accelerating. In 1975, it had less than half its current surface area.
In the relatively near future, it is expected that the lagoon will continue to grow until it becomes a large, deep fjord.
Though a dark omen for Iceland’s glaciers and ice caps in general, the retreat of Breiðamerkurjökull has resulted in an incredibly beautiful, if temporary, site. This has not been overlooked by Hollywood.
Jökulsárlón has been featured in the James Bond films A View to Kill in 1985 and Die Another Day in 2002, 2001’s Lara Croft: Tomb Raider, and 2005’s Batman Begins.
In 2017, Jökulsárlón was enveloped into the Vatnajökull National Park, thus it is now fully protected by Icelandic law.
Because of the wealth of herring and capelin that the tides bring into the lagoon, Jökulsárlón is somewhat of a hot-spot for Iceland’s wildlife.
In summer, it is a nesting site for Arctic Terns; stay well away from their nesting area, as these birds are notorious for the fierceness with which they protect their eggs, dive-bombing the heads of any they see as a threat. Skuas also nest on the lake’s shores in this season.
Seals can be reliably spotted here throughout the year, swimming amongst or else hauling out on the icebergs. Jökulsárlón provides them with a safe haven to rest and socialise, especially considering the waters of southeast Iceland are renowned for their population of orcas.
Vatnajökull glacier is the largest glacier in Europe, covering 8% of Iceland’s landmass.
Due to its enormous size, parts of it are visited on countless self drive tours, guided packages and tours of the South Coast. This 10-Day Summer Self-Drive and 6-Day Summer Vacation are examples that provide opportunities to visit many of its corners. It can also be explored by those who rent a car.
The glacier is the central feature of the Vatnajökull National park, found in the south west of Iceland, a popular spot for activities like glacier hiking from Skaftafell, boat tours in the Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon, and ice caving tours between November and March.
Vatnajökull has a surface area of approximately 8,100 square kilometres (3127 square miles); though it is rapidly shrinking due to climate change, its recession is not quite as advanced as at other glaciers, such as Langjökull and Mýrdalsjökull. In parts, it is a kilometre deep (over three thousand feet), and its average thickness is around half of that.
Vatnajökull also holds the tallest peak in Iceland beneath its ice; Hvannadalshnjúkur is 2,200 metres tall (7,218 feet). It also conceals some of the most active volcanoes in the country, the most notable being Grímsvötn, Öræfajökull and Bárðarbunga.
Volcanic activity in the region has occurred on and off throughout the centuries, and many geologists believe that several eruptions are overdue. If their calculations are correct, it would mean significant volcanic activity for Vatnajökull over the scope of the next half-century.
Depending on winds, this could result in worldwide consequences in terms of air-travel, agriculture and the general climate.
The glacier boasts over 30 outlet glaciers, which are channels of ice that flow out of ice caps but remain constrained on the sides of the valley. The major outlet glaciers of Vatnajökull include Dyngjujökull in the north, Breiðamerkurjökull, and Skeiðarárjökull to the south. To the west, one can find the outlet glaciers Síðujökull, Skaftárjökull and Tungnaárjökull.
Numerous rivers run out of Vatnajökull, making up some of the greatest glacial rivers in Iceland. The most notable are:
Tungnaá (west)
Köldukvísl (west)
Þjórsá (west)
Jökulsá á Fjöllum (north)
Skjálfandafljót (north)
Jökulsá á Brú (northeast)
Jökulsá í Fljótsdal (northeast)
Jökulsá í Lóni (south)
Hornafjarðarfljót (south)
Jökulsá á Breiðamerkursandi (south)
Skeiðará (south)
Núpsvötn (south)
Hverfisfljót (south)
Skaftá (south)
Vatnajökull National Park was established in June 2008 and has slowly grown to include more and more areas. The park now covers an area of 14,141 square kilometres (5,460 square miles), 14% of the country. It is the second largest national park in Europe.
Rivers divide the highland plateau to the north of the park. The volcanic table mountain Herðubreið towers over this particular region, along with volcanoes Askja, Snæfell and Kverkfjöll.
The canyon Jökulsárgljúfur was carved out by glacial floods centuries ago. At the upper end of the canyon, you'll find Dettifoss, the most powerful waterfall in Europe. Further north, the horseshoe-shaped canyon Ásbyrgi is believed to have formed when Óðinn's eight-legged horse, Sleipnir, stepped his foot down from the heavens.
East around Snæfell, one can find wetlands and ranges, home to roaming herds of wild reindeer and abundant birdlife. Steep mountain ridges make up the south side of Vatnajökull, where outlet glaciers crawl onto the lowlands. The sandy plains of Skeiðarársandur also lie to the south, and the glacial river Skeiðará runs through this vast desert.
One of Iceland's most visited landmarks in the National Park is the Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon, which sits at the base of the outlet glacier Breiðamerkurjökull. Here, large icebergs that have broken off the glacier float across a vast lake before ending up in the Atlantic Ocean, or washed ashore on the nearby Diamond Beach.
This is one of the best seal-watching spots in the country.
The volume of Vatnajökull reached its peak around 1930 but has since been in a steady process of decline. Because of rising levels of global temperature, Vatnajökull has on average lost about a metre (three feet) of its thickness annually over the past 15 years.
If temperature levels continue to rise, the glacier could be all but gone nearing the end of the next century, leaving only small ice caps on top of the highest mountain summits.
Efforts are being made to prevent what some say is the inevitable, with reforestation projects going on all around the glacier, a proven method of cooling the area. Time will tell how successful they are.
The beauty of Vatnajökull National Park has not gone unnoticed by those in film or television. Many famous scenes have been shot here, starting with James Bond: A View to Kill in 1985. Other notable films with scenes here include Batman Begins, Lara Croft: Tomb Raider, and James Bond: Die Another Day.
Most famously, however, many places in Vatnajökull have been used in the HBO Series Game of Thrones, north of the Wall. The Wall itself is constructed with CGI using shots of the glacier.
Skógafoss is one of Iceland’s biggest and most beautiful waterfalls with an astounding width of 25 meters (82 feet) and a drop of 60 meters (197 feet).
The waterfall is incorporated in plenty of self-drive tours and vacation packages around the country, like this 10-Day Road Trip and this 6-Day Winter Guided Tour respectively. Almost all South Coast tours will visit Skogafoss. Those who rent a car will find this waterfall right by the Ring Road.
Located on the Skógá river, this mighty cascade is clearly visible from Route 1 and is an excellent place to stop and stretch the legs while travelling Iceland’s South Coast. The river below Skógafoss holds a large char and salmon population and is thus a favourite spot for fishermen in the summer.
Due to the amount of spray the cascade produces, at least one rainbow is present any time the sun emerges from behind the clouds.
The land underneath the waterfall is very flat, allowing visitors to walk right up to the wall of water. This will get you drenched, although, on a summer’s day, it can be quite tempting.
Skógafoss can also be viewed from the top as a steep staircase leads to an observational platform above the cascade. Many nesting seabirds can be found on the route up.
Skógafoss is located near the small village of Skógar, south of the Eyjafjallajökull glacier volcano. There you’ll find the Skógasafn folk museum, an open-air museum with both old wooden houses and turf houses, as well as a regional museum with various artefacts from this area.
A part of the Skógasafn Regional Museum is the Museum of Transportation, which showcases the history and evolution of transportation, communication and technologies in Iceland. There, you can see how this nation evolved from the age of the working horse to the digital communications of the 21st century.
The Skógasafn museum also includes a café and a museum shop, and in the village of Skógar, you will find both a hotel and a restaurant.
At the eastern side of Skógafoss, you will find one of Iceland’s most famed hiking routes; the Fimmvörðuháls pass. The 22 kilometre (14 miles) trail takes you along Skógá river, between two glaciers, Mýrdalsjökull and Eyjafjallajökull, before ending in the beautiful Þórsmörk valley.
Skógafoss is often visited alongside the waterfall Seljalandsfoss, which is just a little further along the South Coast. Both fall from cliffs of the same height, and while Skógafoss is much more powerful, Seljalandsfoss has a cave behind it, which means it can be fully encircled. It is also next to a much lesser known but still awe-inspiring waterfall, Gljúfrabúi.
A gold ring is on display at the Skógasafn museum. According to legend, the ring is from a chest that was owned by Þrasi Þórólfsson, one of the first Viking settlers in the area, who by some accounts was a giant. Folklore states that before his death in 900 AD, Þrasi buried a chest filled with gold in a cave behind Skógafoss waterfall.
Many attempts were made to retrieve the chest after Þrasi’s death, and years later, locals managed to grasp a ring on the side of the chest. As they pulled, the ring broke off, and the treasure was lost forever. The ring was then given to the local church before it made its way to the museum.
Seljalandsfoss is a waterfall that can be fully encircled, situated on the South Coast of Iceland with a drop of 60 metres (200 feet).
Many of the vacation packages on offer promise plenty of time at Seljalandsfoss, such as this 6-Day Summer Tour; the same can be said for self-drive holidays, including this 10-Day Road Trip. Those who join a South Coast tour or rent a car can reach the waterfall from the capital in just a couple of hours.
Due to the waterfall’s close proximity to the Ring Road and impressive natural features, it is one of the country's most famous and visited falls. Majestic and picturesque, it is one of the most photographed features in all of Iceland.
Seljalandsfoss waterfall, part of the river Seljalandsá, has its origins underneath the glacier Eyjafjallajökull. The volcano beneath this ice cap was the one that erupted in 2010 and caused havoc at airports across Europe.
The cascade of the falls is relatively narrow but falls from a tall cliff that once marked the country's coastline, the sea is now located across a stretch of lowlands and is visible from the site.
The most distinguishing feature of Seljalandsfoss is a pathway that stretches around it. The cliffs behind the falls have a wide cavern, and rocks and paths allow guests to fully encircle it in summer.
Though a mesmerising opportunity, visitors should be prepared to get dampened due to the perpetual mist of the falls, which also tends to make the rocks of the pathway slippery.
Floodlights have been set up on both sides of the waterfall, which impressively illuminate the scene during the night when the midnight sun is not out. The lights were installed in 2001 due to the growing popularity of the falls as a tourist destination.
After visiting Seljalandsfoss, it is common for visitors to continue north to the waterfall Gljúfrabúi, which is found partially hidden behind a rock face. Because of Seljalandsfoss extreme popularity, Gljúfrabúi is widely considered the hidden gem of the scene, as it is too often overlooked.
Seljalandsfoss is also usually visited alongside the nearby Skógafoss. The waterfall falls from the same height, and while it cannot be encircled, it is much more powerful and steeped in the legend of a giant’s hidden treasure.
In 2017, it was announced that a visitor’s centre was to be constructed near the falls. The design of the building indicated that it would be seven metres (23 feet) high and 2,000 square metres (21,500 square feet) in size. Landowners in the area opposed to the idea, proclaiming that the centre would greatly alter the natural appearance of the waterfall’s renowned scenery.
The project has neither been fully approved nor wholly cancelled, with ideas surfacing of either significantly reducing the size of the construction, or moving the visitor centre’s location further away, for instance to the nearby farmstead Brekkuhorn.
Along with a multitude of South Iceland’s most famous natural attractions, Seljalandsfoss can be seen in Justin Bieber’s music video for his song ‘I’ll Show You’. Please enjoy the video without emulating any antics that will endanger yourself or the environment.
The waterfall was also a featured waypoint during the first leg of the sixth season of The Amazing Race, an American reality TV series.
Geysir is a famous hot spring in the geothermal area of Haukadalur Valley, found in south-west Iceland.
Geysir is less than two hour's drive from the capital, making it easily accessible for many joining a Golden Circle day tour or those who rent a car. It is also visited on countless vacation packages and self-drive tours, such as this 6-Day Guided Winter Tour and this 7-Day Road Trip.
Making up just one of the attractions along the world-renowned Golden Circle sightseeing route, alongside Þingvellir National Park and the mighty Gullfoss waterfall, Geysir is most well-known for having lent its name to geysers all around the world.
Though Geysir itself is rarely active these days, Haukadalur Valley boasts a plethora of hot springs and geysers, including the powerful Strokkur, Smiður and Litli-Strokkur.
Strokkur is, arguably, the country’s most famous hot spring, shooting vast jets of boiling water from 20 metres (65 feet) up to 40 metres (130 feet) high. Don’t worry about missing this incredible spectacle of nature, as Strokkur erupts every five to ten minutes; just make sure to have your camera ready.
Geysir is much larger, but years can go by between eruptions here; it is currently in an inactive phase. When it does erupt, the water can shoot up in the air as high as 70 metres (230 feet).
Just a few minutes walk north of Geysir are a wealth of fumaroles emanating steam and gas into the cool Icelandic air. Aside from watching the hypnotic pillars of steam, you will also be able to observe the yellow sulphuric stains along the fumaroles themselves, a result of the earth’s minerals crystallising around the rock bed.
At the southern part of the valley, Þykkuhverir, you’ll find various bubbling mud pots. These spooky brown cauldrons are actually fumaroles that boil up through the loose ground; after a dry spell, these mud pools are likely to transform into a hardened fumarole.
About two kilometres (one mile) from Geysir is a preserved natural pool called Kúalaug. It has room for three to five people at a time, but care should be taken, as the area around the pool is very delicate. The temperature is 39-43°C (102-109°F), depending on where you are positioned in the pool.
The water is slightly muddy, as the pool is built on soil, and the bottom is slippery due to algae, so caution is advised when relaxing here.
Haukadalur has also seen a rise in reforestation in recent times thanks to continued experiments and research in the area. Today, Haukadalsskógur is one of the largest forests in south Iceland, boasting accessible walking paths (also for wheelchair users), fascinating vegetation and The Tree Museum, built in the memory of forester Gunnar Freysteinsson.
Haukadalur has been inhabited and used as a church site since the Age of Settlement. Given its historic value, it should be noted that scholar, Ari “The Wise“ Þorgilsson, grew up here; it was also where the first pastoral school in Iceland was built.
The current wooden church was last rebuilt in 1938 but its architectural style dates back to 1842, making it well worth a visit to see how Iceland looked before industrialisation.
For accommodation, Hotel Gullfoss is approximately 7 kilometre from the Geysir area, and closer still is Hotel Geysir on the other side of the road from the attraction, where you will also find a restaurant, café and a souvenir shop.
Gullfoss (translated to ‘Golden Falls’) is one of Iceland’s most iconic and beloved waterfalls, found in the Hvítá river canyon in Southwest Iceland.
For those who rent a car or take a Golden Circle tour, Gullfoss waterfall can be reached within two hours from Iceland's capital. Most of the guided packages around the country include a stop at Gullfoss, such as this popular 6-Day Vacation, as do almost all self-drive journeys, like this 7-Day Winter Road Trip.
The water in Hvítá river travels from the glacier Langjökull, before cascading 32 meters (105 feet) down Gullfoss’ two stages in a dramatic display of nature’s raw power. This incredible site is seen by most visitors, as it is on the Golden Circle sightseeing route.
Because of the waterfall’s two stages, Gullfoss should actually be thought of as two separate features. The first, shorter cascade is 11 metres (36 feet), whilst the second drop is 21 metres (69 feet). The canyon walls on both sides of the waterfall reach heights of up to 70 metres (230 feet), descending into the great Gullfossgjúfur canyon. Geologists believe that this canyon was formed by glacial outbursts at the beginning of the last age.
In the summer, approximately 140 cubic metres (459 cubic feet) of water surges down the waterfall every second, whilst in winter that number drops to around 109 cubic metres (358 cubic feet). With such energy, visitors should not be surprised to find themselves drenched by the waterfall’s mighty spray should they get too close.
As mentioned, Gullfoss makes up a part of the highly popular Golden Circle sightseeing route, alongside Geysir geothermal area and Þingvellir National Park. Many Golden Circle tours include additional activities that can be taken from Gullfoss, such as ascending the mighty nearby glacier Langjökull and entering its ice tunnels, or snowmobiling along its gleaming surface.
In the early days of the last century, Gullfoss was at the centre of much controversy regarding foreign investors and their desire to profit off Iceland’s nature. In the year 1907, an English businessman, Howell, sought to utilise the waterfall’s energy and harboured ambitions to use its energy to fuel a hydroelectric plant.
At the time, Gullfoss was owned by a farmer named Tómas Tómasson. Tómas declined Howell’s offer to purchase the land, stating famously “I will not sell my friend!” He would, however, go on to lease Howell the land without the knowledge of a loophole that would allow him to proceed with his plans.
It was Tómas’ daughter, Sigríður Tómasdóttir, who would lead the charge to stop Howell’s ambitions. Having grown up on her father’s sheep farm where she helped pave the first road to Gullfoss, she sought to get the contract nullified, hurriedly saving her own money to hire a lawyer.
The ensuing legal battle was an uphill struggle; the case continued for years, forcing Sigríður to travel many times by foot to Reykjavík, a distance of over 100 kilometres (62 miles). Circumstances became so difficult that Sigríður threatened to throw herself into the waterfall if any construction began.
Her tenacity, however, resulted in success. In 1929, Howell’s withdrew from the lease, unable to keep up with the costs and difficulties of his plan. The waterfall fell back into the hands of the Icelandic people.
Today, Sigríður is recognised for her perseverance in protecting Gullfoss and is often hailed as Iceland’s first environmentalist. As such, she is one of the most famous figures in Iceland’s history. Her contribution is forever marked in stone; a plaque detailing her plight sits at the top of Gullfoss.
Interestingly, the lawyer who assisted Sigríður Sveinn Björnsson, went on to go down in history too; he became the first president of an independent Iceland in 1944.
Besides Gullfoss, visitors can enjoy the views from Gullfoss Cafe, a locally run delicatessen that serves a wide variety of refreshments and meals. The menu has options to tantalise everyone’s taste buds: hot soups, sandwiches, salads and cakes. There is also a shop on site where visitors’ can browse and purchase traditional Icelandic souvenirs.
The glacier volcano of Eyjafjallajökull is notorious the world over for causing havoc to air travel in 2010, and stumping television anchors everywhere as they tried to pronounce it. 1651 metres (5427 feet) tall, it is one of the most dominant features of the South Coast.
Eyjafjallajokull can be seen on many South Coast tours. This 6-Day Vacation Package and this 10-Day Summer Self-Drive are just two examples of the many tours that pass Eyjafjallajökull. Those who rent a car can travel South to see it independently.
The glacier of Eyjafjallajökull is approximately 100 square kilometres (39 square miles), making it the country’s sixth largest. It sits close to the fourth greatest, Mýrdalsjökull, which also conceals another notorious volcano, this one called Katla.
While Eyjafjallajökull’s eruption was huge and disruptive, it pales in comparison to the potential of Katla. Far more explosive, and under much thicker ice, an eruption here in unfavourable wind conditions could have worldwide consequences.
The magma chambers between both of these mighty volcanoes are connected, and, unfortunately for us, an eruption at Eyjafjallajökull is usually followed by one at Katla within a decade.
Eyjafjallajökull has many glacial outlets, the most famous being Gígjökull. Many rivers flow from its meltwater, and one of these falls into the beautiful South Coast waterfall, Seljalandsfoss, which it is possible to fully encircle.
Eyjafjallajökull’s most recent eruption was no doubt the most famous in Iceland’s history (although the honour really should go to Laki, the 1783-4 eruption of which caused an ash cloud so great that Europe fell into a famine that many historians believe led to the French Revolution). On March 27th, 2010, magma began to bubble from beneath the surface, and by April 14th, ash was starting to billow from the peak.
800 people were evacuated, in fears not of magma, but of equally dangerous glacial floods, which have decimated Icelandic towns in the past. Animals were ordered to be kept inside, and those with respiratory problems told they should also stay indoors.
Air travel across Europe was halted, as, by the evening of April 15th, the ash was already over the UK, Scandinavia, and parts of Germany. Holidaymakers were trapped, waiting for news, and would end up stuck for eight days; in Scotland and Ireland, there were even flights delayed in May due to lingering effects.
Thankfully, no one was injured, although the ash is thought to have caused respiratory issues for some in the south of the country. Many farms were also destroyed by the ash and floods, with some farmers still struggling to recover today.
Since settlement in 874, Eyjafjallajökull has also erupted in 900, 1612, and from 1821 to 1823. The latter released a huge amount of fluoride which is believed to have affected the bone health of humans and animals alike at the time.
Eyjafjallajökull is now entirely safe to visit and is seen on most tours of the South Coast in clear weather. In the town of Hvolsvöllur, there is a visitor’s centre on the volcano, which focuses on the experience of one family whose farm, Þorvaldseyri, was one of the many destroyed by the floods, lava and ash.
It is very unlikely that Eyjafjallajökull will erupt again any time soon, with hundreds of years between each eruption, but as mentioned, its neighbour Katla might start rumbling...
As soon as you arrive in Iceland, your otherworldly journey begins. From Keflavík International Airport, you'll be transported through the moon-like lava landscape of the Reykjanes peninsula to your accommodation in downtown Reykjavík.
If your flight arrives early, you can stop in Reykjanes' barren lava field to soak in the Blue Lagoon before you reach the city. This azure geothermal spa stays warm all year round, and its natural silica mud does wonders for your skin! It's the perfect way to relax after your flight.
If your flight arrives late, the Blue Lagoon trip will be arranged on a different day and instead, you can spend your evening soaking in the Nordic atmosphere in the northern-most capital in the world, Reykjavík.
In the evening you will go on a complimentary Northern Lights tour. You can choose to board a bus heading to the wild Icelandic nature to spot the dancing auroras or jump aboard a boat and set sails from Reykjavík's Old Harbour in search of these green, pink and white lights.
You will then spend your first night in Iceland at accommodation in Reykjavík.
Rooms or dormitory beds with shared bathrooms in guesthouses or hostels, such as HI Hostel. Located in the capital region. Access to cooking facilities on premises. Breakfast not included.
Hlemmur Square is set in a 1930s art deco building on Laugavegur. A bar and cafe are located on the ground floor. Private rooms with private or shared bathrooms. Free Wi-Fi. Breakfast not included.
Hótel Klettur is located in the city centre with free parking. The hotel looks over Esja Mountain and the ocean. Private bedrooms with private bathrooms. Free Wi-Fi. Breakfast is included.
Alda Hotel is a 4 star hotel situated on Laugavegur, Reykjavík's main shopping street in the city centre. Private bedrooms with private bathrooms. Free access to a fitness room with a sauna and a hot tub. Free Wi-Fi. Breakfast is included.
Today, you'll spend your day admiring Iceland's most visited natural attractions, aptly named the Golden Circle. From Reykjavík, you'll be whisked away on a minibus to the first site of the day; the historic Þingvellir National Park where Iceland's parliament was founded over a thousand years ago.
The park is neither located on the Eurasian tectonic plate, nor the North-American one, but in a rift valley between. As the continents drift apart, they tear up the landscape around, causing cracks and fissures in the region.
Those with a sense of adventure can choose to go on a snorkelling tour in Silfra, a fissure located on the boundaries of the two continents. The crystal clear waters of Silfra provides an unparalleled experience as the visibility in the water can reach up to 100 metres.
Next up is Geysir geothermal area, home of the erupting hot spring Strokkur. Strokkur spews geothermal water every few minutes, creating a high water column that reaches 15-20 metres in the air. Be sure to bring a camera because a selfie in front of the great Strokkur is a must.
The Golden Circle takes its name from the Golden Waterfall - Gullfoss, one of Iceland's most stunning waterfalls and your next destination today. In wintertime, it looks even more breathtaking as the white water thunders through blocks of ice and snow.
During the booking process, you can add on a tour to Langjökull glacier, which feeds the waterfall Gullfoss. There, you'll hop on a snowmobile and race across the white expanse of the glacier.
Animal-lovers can also rejoice as today you can book a horse riding tour through the Icelandic countryside. Icelandic horses are renowned for being both friendly and gentle, and so this excursion is suitable for both beginners and expert riders.
After this amazing trip, you'll return to the city to unwind and spend another night at your Reykjavík accommodation.
Rooms or dormitory beds with shared bathrooms in guesthouses or hostels, such as HI Hostel. Located in the capital region. Access to cooking facilities on premises. Breakfast not included.
Hlemmur Square is set in a 1930s art deco building on Laugavegur. A bar and cafe are located on the ground floor. Private rooms with private or shared bathrooms. Free Wi-Fi. Breakfast not included.
Hótel Klettur is located in the city centre with free parking. The hotel looks over Esja Mountain and the ocean. Private bedrooms with private bathrooms. Free Wi-Fi. Breakfast is included.
Alda Hotel is a 4 star hotel situated on Laugavegur, Reykjavík's main shopping street in the city centre. Private bedrooms with private bathrooms. Free access to a fitness room with a sauna and a hot tub. Free Wi-Fi. Breakfast is included.
The South Coast of Iceland is filled with breathtaking wonders and today, you'll start your two day trip along it.
First up, you will see Seljalandsfoss waterfall, a stunning high and narrow cascade that falls over a 62-metre cliff face. Behind the curtain of falling water, a large cave is visible, and in the winter, this majestic waterfall is illuminated by strong lights.
From there, you'll visit Skógafoss, a wholly different but equally beautiful waterfall. Skógafoss is bigger than Seljalandsfoss and has a more classic shape. The land underneath the cascade is very flat, which allows visitors to walk right up to the wall of water.
You'll then continue your journey, making your way to the black sand beach of Reynisfjara near the village of Vík. Out in the North-Atlantic surf stand the imposing dark rock stacks of Reynisdrangar, watching as the heavy waves crash upon the shore.
You'll then continue further east, past a vast extension of black lava sand plains, the results of a single volcanic eruption. As you continue your journey, the impressive Vatnajökull glacier will start to appear.
You will stop at Skaftafell Nature Reserve, an oasis situated between white sheets of ice and black sands. The area is located under the mighty Vatnajökull glacier, and from here you can see Iceland’s highest peak, the 2110 metre hight Hvannadalshnúkur.
Finally, it is time to head to the stunning Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon. Icebergs from a nearby glacier break off and fall into the lagoon where they float on the serene water before drifting off to the ocean. Close by is the Diamond Beach, where ice blocks from the lagoon have washed up on shore and glisten in the sunlight.
To finish off the day with even more spectacular nature, be sure to look up into the night sky for a chance to spot the elusive Northern Lights. You'll then spend the night either near Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon or Skaftafell Nature Reserve.
Hotel Edda Höfn is located close to a harbour in a town called Höfn. Guests can enjoy a great view of the ocean in rooms with modern decor. Private bedrooms with private bathrooms. Free Wi-Fi. Breakfast is included.
Hotel Höfn is a 3+ star hotel located in Höfn town central. Guests can enjoy a great view of the glacier or the ocean from most rooms. Private bedrooms with private bathrooms. Free Wi-Fi. Breakfast is included.
Today, you'll have the rare opportunity to visit a natural ice cave. You'll start the day by hopping on a large custom SUV known as a 'super jeep' and enjoy an adventurous trip over the harsh terrain leading to the cave.
Ice caves are only accessible from November until March each year, so a trip to one is truly a unique experience. The caves vary in size and shape and change daily. In the right light and conditions, they are exquisitely beautiful, shrouded in stunning electric blue colours.
After the breathtaking experience of the ice cave, it is time to head back to Reykjavík. On the way, you'll make another stop at Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon as it looks different in the midday light. Keep an eye out for seals lazing about on the icebergs!
On your way back to the city, be also on the lookout for the Northern Lights. You'll never know when they are going to make an appearance.
After an eventful trip, spend your last night in accommodations in the city centre. If you still have energy left, you can check out Reykjavík's vibrant nightlife.
Rooms or dormitory beds with shared bathrooms in guesthouses or hostels, such as HI Hostel. Located in the capital region. Access to cooking facilities on premises. Breakfast not included.
Hlemmur Square is set in a 1930s art deco building on Laugavegur. A bar and cafe are located on the ground floor. Private rooms with private or shared bathrooms. Free Wi-Fi. Breakfast not included.
Hótel Klettur is located in the city centre with free parking. The hotel looks over Esja Mountain and the ocean. Private bedrooms with private bathrooms. Free Wi-Fi. Breakfast is included.
Alda Hotel is a 4 star hotel situated on Laugavegur, Reykjavík's main shopping street in the city centre. Private bedrooms with private bathrooms. Free access to a fitness room with a sauna and a hot tub. Free Wi-Fi. Breakfast is included.
Now it is time to bid farewell to Iceland. If your flight leaves late, you can use the time to explore the wonders of Reykjavík. Make the most of your proximity to the vibrant city centre, and discover the multitude of museums, cafés, galleries, restaurants, designer shops and bars.
Reykjavík also has many public outdoor pools that are warm all year round, so you can relax in a sauna, soak in a hot tub and meet the locals. Treat yourself to an Icelandic hot dog afterwards.
You can also admire the architecture of Hallgrímskirkja church and take in the incredible view of the city and its nearby mountains from its tower. Go ahead and explore the quirky shops and take a look at Reykjavík's street art or sit down for a nice cup of coffee or hot chocolate in Harpa, Reykjavík's concert hall, with a view over the Old Harbour.
If you did not have the chance to go to the Blue Lagoon on your arrival day, you could visit today before you head to the airport for your departure.
The Northern Lights are a natural phenomenon, and therefore cannot be guaranteed, but this itinerary is designed to maximise your chances to see them if weather allows. Please be aware that your itinerary may have to be rearranged to fit your arrival date and time better.
Some optional activities might need either a valid driver's license, or you might need to send additional information to your travel planner. Please note that you need to know how to swim and present medical documents should you choose to go snorkelling or diving.
It can happen, in the case of extreme weather, that an activity is cancelled. If your chosen activity is cancelled, we will assist you 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. We recommend you bring shoes with slip-resistant soles or ice-grip shoe covers. The covers can be purchased in most supermarkets and gas stations around the country.
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.
Dormitory beds with shared bathrooms in guesthouses or hostels, such as HI Hostels. Located in the capital region. Breakfast is not included.
Private rooms with shared bathroom in guesthouses or hostels such as Capital Inn Guesthouse. Located in the capital region. Breakfast is not included.
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.
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.
Are you looking to try some of the best dishes Iceland’s top restaurants have to offer? You can now add delicious meals to your booking without having to research where to find them. Select this option to include dinner every night as an extra, and we’ll provide you with vouchers as part of your booking confirmation. We’ll choose the top-rated restaurants that fit with your vacation itinerary and make your reservations for you. Your server will offer you a set menu of two to three courses at the restaurant, from which you can choose meat, fish, or vegetarian options. If you prefer to try a different dish, the meal voucher will act as a credit that you can redeem at the restaurant against menu items that are not part of the set menu. Save time and effort during your vacation, and let us take care of your meals for you. Choose the meal option today so you’ll be guaranteed to eat well on your forthcoming trip. Please notify the restaurant on arrival about any dietary requirements. Vouchers are non-refundable.
This insurance guarantees that you can cancel tour and package bookings and receive a full refund, minus the insurance cost. The cost of your cancellation insurance depends on the duration of your tour or package. A base cost of 5,000 ISK per person is applied to all tours and packages with a duration of 5 days or less. An additional 1,000 ISK per person will be added to the insurance cost for each day after. The cancellation must be made more than 48 hours before the listed starting time on your voucher. To cancel your booking and claim your refund, simply contact info@guidetoiceland.is and declare full cancellation. COVID-19 Related Cancellations If you need to cancel your booking due to COVID-19 related reasons, the cancellation insurance provides further protection for your booking. If you purchase a self-drive tour or guided tour package along with the cancellation insurance, you will also get a full refund. If you test positive on arrival, to get the full refund after arrival, please email us at info@guidetoiceland.is with your booking details and your test result within 4 hours after you receive the test result. If your flight gets cancelled due to COVID, to get the full refund, please email us at info@guidetoiceland.is with your booking details and your flight cancellation confirmation prior to your scheduled flight departure time. Please note that this insurance covers the cancellation of the whole tour or package. Individual services cannot be cancelled and refunded separately, but are all covered and refunded in case of a full cancellation.
We always try to help travellers fulfil their dream vacation. If you need to change the details of your trip, you can do so by pressing the ‘Click here to edit booking’ button that will be on your electronic voucher. This electronic voucher will arrive to you via email upon booking.
Please bear in mind that Iceland has limited service availability and the best services with the best price and highest ratings get fully booked quickly. Completing your booking will ensure the best availability and pricing for your trip. Please find a summary of our cancellation policy and terms of service below. For further information, please see our Terms and Conditions.
Cancellation Due to COVID-19 Related Reasons
If you purchase a day tour, multi-day tour or rent a car on Guide to Iceland, but test positive on arrival to Iceland or if your flight to Iceland is cancelled due to COVID-19, you will get a full refund. If you purchase a self-drive tour or guided tour package along with the cancellation insurance, you will also get a full refund. The cancellation insurance is available for purchase during the booking process while you book your trip.
Alternatively, you can choose to reschedule your trip to another date.
If you test positive on arrival, to get the full refund after arrival, please contact us via email with your booking details and your test result within 4 hours after you receive the test result.
If your flight gets cancelled due to COVID, to get the full refund, please contact us via email with your booking details and your flight cancellation confirmation prior to your scheduled flight departure time.
Cancellations of Day Tours, Combo Deals and Multi-Day tours from independent operators
Day Tours and Combo Deals which only include day tours booked on the Guide to Iceland webpage that are serviced by independent operators can be cancelled up to 24 hours before departure for a full refund. This can be done via the ‘Edit Booking’ button in your electronic voucher email.
All tours, regardless of operator, which last for two days or more (Multi-Day tours and Combos that are inclusive of any Multi-Day tours) can be cancelled up to 7 days before departure date notice for an 85% refund. The 15% service fee is to cover the operator cost of planning and arrangement. Please note that changing the number of people in a booking to a smaller number is considered cancellation for the change in the number of pax. No refund is given if tours are cancelled within 7 days notice.
In case of partial cancellations, e.g. an activity portion of a multi-day tour is cancelled by the operator, or a tour layout is changed due to weather conditions or other unforeseen circumstances, a partial refund is due. If an activity is changed, the price difference between activities will be refunded, or a percentage stated by the tour operator as the standard refund due to changes in the program of the tour.
Cancellations of car rentals
Car rentals reservations can be cancelled up to 24 hours before departure and receive a full refund. This can be done via the ‘Edit Booking’ button in your electronic voucher email.
Cancellations of accommodation
The details of available refunds are dealt with on an individual basis depending on the accommodation provider. To cancel accommodation, select the ‘Click here to edit booking’ button in your electronic voucher email. Please note that if your accommodation booking is a part of an All-In-One Self Drive or Holiday package serviced by Guide to Iceland, you will not be able to cancel it via the button in the electronic voucher, you will need to contact us via info@guidetoiceland.is with the relevant information.
Cancellations of flights
Scheduled international and domestic flights are non-refundable, be they a part of an All-In-One Self Drive or Holiday package, multi-day tour, or any other service purchasable on the Guide to Iceland website, unless the Cancellation insurance is purchased. If a cancellation insurance is purchased, a full refund is given.
If flights are a part of a tour listed as a Day-Tour, standard terms of cancellations of day tours apply to a full refund. For cancelling and refunding of private flights (flights specifically arranged and scheduled for you personally or your group in specific), please contact your service agent.
Cancellations due to weather conditions
If your tour is cancelled by the tour provider due to weather conditions or any other environmental circumstances you will always receive a full refund. Exempt from this are any rescheduled second tries of tours which already have been serviced as a first departure. In the case of a volcanic eruption taking place on Icelandic soil stopping you from getting to Iceland, you will also receive a full refund on All products booked on Guide to Iceland.
Cancellation of All-In-One Self Drives and Holiday Packages arranged by Guide to Iceland
You can cancel your All-In-One Self Drive or Holiday package arranged by Guide to Iceland up to 7 days before departure and receive an 85% refund. The 15% service fee is to cover our cost of planning and arrangement. No refund is issued if there are less than 7 days to the starting date of the All-In-One Self Drive or Holiday package.
If a cancellation is made less than 24 hours after booking, Guide to Iceland will refund the tour fully, unless non-refundable separate booking has been made for said All-In-One Self Drive or Holiday package. In such cases, an amount to cover said object will be held, while the remaining amount will be refunded.
It is not possible to cancel or alter any individual services within a package within 7 days of Self Drive or package starting date. Please note that this includes reducing the number of participants within a self-drive or a package.
In cases where an All-In-One Self Drive or a Holiday Package is disrupted due to official road closure or Act of God, Guide to Iceland will reroute and or rearrange to the best of their abilities and assist with cancellations, making partial refunds when applicable and full refunds when applicable.
Clients who have purchased a Cancellation Insurance to accompany their Self Drive or Holiday package can request a full refund up to 48 hours before arrival. Please note that a Cancellation Insurance can only be purchased upon the time of booking or added to a product within 24 hours of booking. Please see Terms and Conditions for further information.
How to cancel or change a booking
All cancellations and changes must be made through the voucher that you receive on your email after booking. It will have an edit booking button that allows you to modify and cancel your bookings. After clicking the button you will be taken to a modification page where you can amend your booking details. There will be buttons available both to confirm changes and to cancel your booking. If you can not cancel or modify your booking then the time to do so has expired.
Refunds of past services need to be submitted within 15 days after the completion of the tour/package services. All refund requests must be made through email to booking@guidetoiceland.is with the email subject as: Refund Request - [Order number]. We do not charge anything for helping you change or make simple rearrangements to your booking for day tours, multi-day tours serviced by independent operators, and car rentals as long as they are requested within the window allowed for changes to a product, but costs can change accordingly with your new details. Please be advised that though we always try our best, due to high demand and low availability, rearrangements are not always possible.
For All-In-One Self-drives and Holiday Packages arranged by Guide to Iceland, please contact your travel planner for any changes needed. We do not charge anything for helping you change or make simple rearrangements to your All-In-One Self drive or Holiday Package, but please note that costs can change accordingly, depending on hotel rates, car rentals, change of included products etc. In that case, we will either notify you about the increased costs or refund you the difference. In cases where changes reach a form that require rebookings and tailoring of travel, a service fee of 15% of total tour price might apply. Please see full Terms and Conditions for further details.
Please note that changing the number of people in a booking to a smaller number is considered cancellation for the change in the number of pax.
Terms for accommodation in All-In-One Holiday packages and Self-Drives booked with Guide to Iceland
If you are booking an All-In-One Holiday Package or Self-Drive with Guide to Iceland, accommodation will be arranged as follows:
Super Budget level accommodation is set in hostel dormitories or rooms with shared facilities, regardless of the number of participants.
Budget, Comfort and Quality level accommodation will be arranged as follows: A single traveller will receive a single bedroom. Even number groups will receive twin/double rooms and odd-numbered groups of travellers will be booked into triple rooms.
Accommodation for children and teens is arranged so that they lodge with their guardians, either in a baby cot or on an additional bed in the room. Should the number of children and teens exceed the number of adults travelling with them, the exceeding number of children/teens will be subject to full adult prices.
Please note that you can contact us at any time to make changes to your accommodation level. Additional charges may apply.
Pickups
During the booking process you will be able to choose a pickup location and starting time. If you do not show up for the scheduled pickup time and location stated on your booking, your reservation is non-refundable.
If you do not know your pickup location at the time of booking, you can choose to update your pickup location later, up to 24 hours before tour departure. Click on the link in your voucher email to update your pickup location and other details. Please call the number listed on your voucher if you do not receive a confirmation of your pickup location update.
Terms of payment
When you reserve online a full payment is charged to your credit card. To reserve for group bookings and packages of more than 15 people, you can also contact us by email and make a 15% down payment. We will then start reserving your trip to secure you the best price. The rest of your payment must reach us 30 days before your arrival. Please contact info@guidetoiceland.is for this service.
All charges are made in Icelandic krona. On our website you can view an estimate of prices in a number of currencies. This is only to help you understand the approximate price in your preferred currency. Final payment is always conducted in ISK. We also refund in ISK. As Guide to Iceland does not charge any booking or transaction fees we can not be held liable to any loss in currency exchange during transactions, nor any third party transaction fees that may occur at the time of payment and/or refund.
Car rental terms
All drivers must be a minimum of 20 years of age and have had a driver’s license for at least 1 year. For certain vehicles, the minimum age might be 23 or higher. It is the responsibility of the client to understand and honour the driver minimum age. Please note that rentals are not obliged to honour a rental should the driver not meet the age requirements. Upon receiving the rental vehicle, a valid driver's license in the Latin alphabet and a credit card must be presented. You will be asked to sign a contract with the car rental. We advise you read this contract carefully and make sure that you are aware of the different insurances that you choose; what you are insured for, self-risk and more. Please note that security deposit from a valid credit card of attending traveller might be required upon pick up. The amount may vary depending on car rental and car model. Please contact the rental agency directly for further information. Upon return of the car, the deposit will be returned to you, provided the conditions of the car is the same as when picked-up. Please note that the car rental agreement will be between the renter and the car rental agency, and any disputes regarding damages etc. will need to be resolved between the two parties. Guide to Iceland cannot be liable for what you have agreed upon with the car rental company.
Guide to Iceland cannot be liable to any loss, damages, injuries, accidents, death or sickness during your stay in Iceland. All matters related to damages to the car are dealt with directly with the car rental. If you have any complaints about one of our car rental partners please send us an email to info@guidetoiceland.is and we will help you protect your rights.
General terms
Guide to Iceland cannot be liable to any loss, damage, accidents, injuries, death or sickness during your tour. The same applies for any changes in tour schedule due to weather, strikes or any other force majeure. Tour operators reserve the right to change routes, schedules and itineraries if needed because of weather, road conditions or should the necessity arise because of unforeseen reasons or circumstances.
We advise all travellers to purchase a comprehensive travel insurance to minimize possible losses due to unforeseeable situations during your travel. Guide to Iceland does not offer any travel insurance, so please contact your preferred private travel insurance company.
If you have a complaint about any of our partners please contact us at info@guidetoiceland.is and we will protect your rights.
The 5-day tour was amazing! We were happy to get the chance to see these beautiful sights and do some great activities. Furthermore, the tour was very well organized between pick ups and information. I would definitely recommend this tour to friends! Thanks again!
From the planning process to each tour, Guide to Iceland provided exceptional service and experiences that exceeded our expectations. Our travel coordinator helped to arrange additional accommodations and answered all of our questions quickly leading up to departure. The itinerary we received was very thorough and helpful so that we knew exactly where to be and what tour vehicles to look for every step of the way. All of our individual tour guides were very friendly, informative, and experts on the respective areas. Would highly recommend!
It was a wonderful trip. Everything was meticulously planned and arranged. All the trips were beautiful and even the hotel was very nice. There weather became severe in between but the trip was rearranged so we did not have to miss out on anything. We are surely going back to Guide to Iceland when we go to Iceland next time. !
Excellent trip, great 2 day tour at the end with brilliant Ice Cave visit with Fannar - very entertaining and informative guide. Our driver and guide Andre did very well coping with the foot of snow which fell overnight before our last day meaning he had to really think on his feet the whole time. Thoroughly recommended.
This was an experience I will never forget the tour was professional the accommodation was excellent the country is beautiful . It wasn’t cheap but I felt it was worth every penny I would highly recommend this tour to anyone. Thank you Guide to Iceland for making so easy to enjoy your beautiful country.
My husband and I had a great time in Iceland through guide to iceland. The accommodation and guides were excellent. Of note, however, this is not a 24/7 guided tour. Therefore not everything is planned or worked out for you. For example, we had to work out our transportation to the northern lights boat tour which made it difficult especially when we kept missing the northern lights and had to go almost every night! Taxis were expensive and busses were irregular. They could have included the option of booking transport for us as we only found that option out later. Despite outsourcing tour companies, they had excellent communication and gave us a refund easily when we could not complete our multiday trip around the southern part due to bad weather.
Tours were great, but buses were late and they charged me for the snorkeling between the continents but I couldn't do it but they won't refund me!
Not Flexible during this Corona Virus Critical Moment
The trip covered amazing places and beautiful places in a comfortable minibus. Pick up was on time and guide/driver was friendly and knowledgeable.
This was an incredible trip. Everything was well organized, and we never felt like we had wasted time while we were in Iceland. Guide to Iceland planned out everything, all the details that we might have overlooked. Not just that, but when poor weather caused one of our events to be canceled, we were promptly contacted by our travel agent with multiple options for either rescheduling, finding another event, or getting a refund. I have no complaints and I would absolutely recommend Guide to Iceland to anyone who is interested in visiting Iceland.