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Northern Lights Escape
Northern Lights Escape
Gurgling hot springs, majestic waterfalls, volcanoes alive and extinct, Europe’s biggest glacier – Iceland, where adventures a la naturale await. Discover the raw natural beauty of this spectacular Nordic wonderland on a 6-day trip that will have you stalking close to epic glacial sheaths, feeling the icy spray of the Gullfoss waterfall and becoming acquainted with the culture and cuisine of an Arctic island outpost unlike any other.
Tour At a Glance
- On this trip we are travelling in our own private minibus as this allows us to reach some more off the beaten path destinations and gives us flexibility which would not be possible by public transport. And on top of that all our vehicles in Iceland have complimentary Wi-Fi.
- There's a lot more to Iceland than ice and vikings. Follow the scenic 'Golden Circle', visiting geothermal springs and geysers, the mighty waterfall of Gullfoss and the site of the nation's first parliament at Thingvellir
- Drive along the island’s spectacular South Shore past the Reynisdrangar Rocks and volcanic black sand beaches
- Head to Skaftafell National Park and get adventurous with a hike to Vatnajokull, Europe's largest glacier
- The aurora borealis is the best lightshow on Earth, and this trip is your ticket. Stay up late to see the northern sky dance with green light (subject to weather conditions and activity)
- Tour code: BMSW
- Group Adventure
Itinerary details
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1 Reykjavik
Hallo! Welcome to Iceland. The worl Hallo! Welcome to Iceland. The world's northernmost capital of Reykjavik lies just below the Arctic Circle. The city sees around four hours of sunlight a day in winter and 22 hours or more in summer. Surrounded by volcanic peaks and crystalline ocean, and boasting a vibrant arts and nightlife scene, Reykjavik's contrasts are utterly beguiling. Why not arrive early and head to the National Museum, which depicts the history of Iceland from the 9th century, when the first Vikings from mainland Scandinavia arrived and settled, to the present day, or join locals who gossip and chatter in the Laugardalslaug Geothermal Pool.
Accommodation :
Hotel ( Night)
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2 Golden Circle / Hvolsvollur Area
Depart Reykjavik early this morning Depart Reykjavik early this morning and follow the route of the 'Golden Circle'. Visit Þingvellir National Park, the site of Iceland's first parliament, founded in AD930, and a geological wonder where the American and Eurasian tectonic plates are pulling apart. If you notice a big ridge of water in the landscape, you’re probably looking at the Silfra fissure. Next, head to Iceland's Geysir geothermal area, where you'll see the Strokkur geyser shoot water 30 metres into the air. Be spellbound by the immense beauty and sheer power of the Gullfoss Waterfall, also know as Golden Falls, before continuing on to the Hvolsvollur Valley, where you'll spend the night on an Icelandic farm that has been converted into a guesthouse. Far away from the city lights, the guesthouse is an ideal Northern Lights base. If the skies are clear tonight, why not take a stroll out into the snow and look skywards for the dancing green lights.
Accommodation :
Guesthouse ( Night)
Included Activities
Golden Circle - Thingvellir National ParkGolden Circle - Strokkur GeysirGolden Circle - Gullfoss Waterfall
Optional Activities
Fludir - Secret Lagoon - ISK3600
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3 South Coast / Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon
Start the day with a trip to the ee Start the day with a trip to the eerily beautiful Skógafoss waterfall, one of the biggest waterfalls in Iceland. Skógafoss is a giant of a waterfall, 25 metres wide and also dropping down 60 metres. You can get up close and feel its power, and also climb a (long) windy set of stairs up to a stunning viewpoint. On a sunny day you should be able to spot a rainbow or two in the spray. Continue along Iceland's South Shore to take in more of the country’s renowned natural wonders. From the stepping-stone rock formations of Reynisdrangar, the promontory of Dyrhólaey, and the night black sand beach of Reynisfjara, this is one of the country's most scenic regions. En route you will pass the lava of the Laki eruption of 1782 to 1783. In the afternoon, you will visit the famous Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon, a stunning sea of floating icebergs whose blue contrast with the charcoal coloured sand of the beach. Stop for the night at a farm stay on the South Coast. Weather permitting, there will be another opportunity to step outside and witness the natural wonders of the Northern Lights tonight.
Accommodation :
Guesthouse ( Night)
Included Activities
Jokulsarlon - Glacier LagoonSkogafoss - Waterfall VisitSouth Coast - Dyrholaey Viewpoint
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4 Vatnajokull Glacier / Vik
Today you'll take a walk on Europe' Today you'll take a walk on Europe's biggest ice cap – Vatnajokull – which has around 30 glaciers flowing out from it. No experience is necessary to partake in the hike. It’s sobering to think that the glacier is retreating due to rising world temperatures, and in some years the glacier may be gone. Alternatively, if you would like to opt out, just embark on a hike to the glacier's tongue or return to the glacier lagoon at Jokulsarlon or Fjallsarlon. If you prefer a relaxing morning you can explore the surroundings of the farmstay and head to the Thorbergur Centre. Later on today, journey on to the black sand seaside town of Vik. With the sea on one side and high cliffs on the other, this dramatically positioned quaint little village is Iceland's most southerly mainland settlement.
Accommodation :
Guesthouse ( Night)
Included Activities
Vatnajokull - Glacier Hike
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5 Reykjavik
This morning we make our way to the This morning we make our way to the beautiful waterfall of Seljalandsfoss, and then back to Reykjavik. Upon arrival take a short guided walk of Reykjavik to get an enhanced appreciation of the city around its landmark attractions and points of interest. Visit the old harbour, the city center and the famous Hallgrimskirkja church. Iceland's capital has an eclectic arts and music scene, an abundance of quirky cafes and a laid-back vibe. Perhaps browse some of the city's great art galleries. If you haven't had enough of the Northern Lights yet, you could head out of town to chase them again this evening, or while away the hours with a soak in the geothermal waters of the famous Blue Lagoon. Whatever you choose, tonight perhaps gather together your fellow Icelandic adventurers and celebrate the end of this Northern Lights Escape.
Accommodation :
Hotel ( Night)
Included Activities
Reykjavik - Leader-led walking tour
Optional Activities
Reykjavik - Settlement Exhibition - ISK2900Reykjavik - Saga Museum - ISK3600Reykjavik - Whales of Iceland Museum - ISK4300Reykjavik - Maritime Museum - ISK2350Reykjavik - Perlan Museum - ISK5390
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6 Reykjavik
Today is departure day and time to Today is departure day and time to say 'sjaumst'. As there are no activities planned, you are able to depart the hotel at any time. Check out time is at midday. If you are departing later, you can arrange to store your luggage at the hotel. If you would like to stay longer, we are happy to book additional accommodation for you (subject to availability). Perhaps browse some of the city's great art galleries. If you feel like something more active, book yourself on a Silfra Fissure snorkelling adventure, where you’ll discover this underwater ridge with water visibility of up to 120 metres.
Optional Activities
Reykjavik - Silfra Fissure Snorkelling Day Trip inc return transfer from Reykjavik - ISK28490Reykjavik - Lava Tunnel Tour - ISK13900Reykjanes Peninsula - Blue Lagoon inc return transfer - ISK18980
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Dates & Prices
Is this trip right for you.
- The Northern Lights (also known as the Aurora Borealis) are a natural display of coloured lights in the night sky of the northern hemisphere. While Northern Light displays can never be guaranteed, as they are a natural phenomenon, you have a higher chance of seeing them in locations at high latitudes, such as Iceland. Please note that weather conditions and overall activity can affect visibility.
- Iceland can be an expensive destination in many ways, from museum entrance fees to visiting a cafe, but especially in terms of eating out. To provide you with an example, a main meal outside of Reykjavik can be around the ISK 4,500 mark. Your leader will be able to advise on how to save money. In remote areas the only option for dinner will be at the guesthouse we are staying at. Please stock up on food at a supermarket prior to arrival if you would like to opt out eating at the guesthouses' restaurants.
- Iceland can be extremely cold at this time of year. Please bring appropriate clothing for adverse weather conditions. There may be the rare occasion where your leader has to alter the itinerary and activities due to the weather which can cause roads being blocked, sites closure etc. Your leader will discuss the necessary changes and alternatives where possible.
- Due to the remote locations we visit, there are a few long drives on this trip. This is a great opportunity to enjoy the scenery and spend some time getting to know the other members of your group.
Accommodation
- Guesthouse (3 nights)
- Hotel (2 nights)
Joining point description
Hotel Klettur is a stone's throw from downtown. The hotel’s look and interior get their inspiration from Icelandic nature, and its name is derived from the rock that bursts through the wall on the first floor. It is said that the rock has been integrated into the building in order to keep the elves happy that live within the rock. From Hotel Klettur it is a short walk to the main shopping area of Laugavegur street, and Iceland's highest building, the magnificent Hallgrímskirkja church, is a 10-minute walk away. The hotel offers modern brightly decorated guest rooms with free Wi-Fi, TV and private bathrooms. A continental breakfast is available in the mornings.
Joining point instructions
Intrepid can assist with pre-booking a private arrival transfer from the airport - enquire with your agent. Please advise your flight arrival details at least 14 days prior to your departure.
If you have a confirmed private arrival transfer, upon landing at Keflavik Airport (KEF) please make your way to the Arrivals Hall. Your transfer driver will be waiting for you on the left side when you exit the customs area, holding a board with your name. In case of flight cancellations, changes, or if you experience severe delays at immigration, baggage collection or customs, or if you are not able to find the driver, please contact the transfer operator directly on +354 7903838 or +354 7923838. You can also call our emergency line directly: +49 8024 4679 540.
Alternatively, Grayline and Flybus operate shuttles between the airport and the BSI Bus Terminal in Reykjavik. From there you can change to a hotel shuttle bus or walk to the joining point hotel. You can book these shuttles online, or upon arrival at Keflavik Airport.
You can also take a taxi from the airport to your hotel. The price is approximately ISK21,000.
Finish point description
Hotel Klettur is a stone's throw from downtown. The hotel’s look and interior get their inspiration from Icelandic nature, and its name is derived from the rock that bursts through the wall on the first floor. It is said that the rock has been integrated into the building in order to keep the elves happy that live within the rock. From Hotel Klettur it is a short walk to the main shopping area of Laugavegur street, and Iceland's highest building, the magnificent Hallgrímskirkja church, is a 10-minute walk away. The hotel offers modern brightly decorated guest rooms with free Wi-Fi, TV and private bathrooms. A continental breakfast is available in the mornings.
Finish point instructions
- Intrepid can assist with pre-booking a private departure transfer to the airport - enquire with your agent. Please advise your flight arrival details at least 14 days prior to the start of your trip.
- If you have a confirmed departure transfer your leader will advise your pick up time the day before your trip ends.
- Alternatively, please ask your leader or hotel staff for assistance in arranging a taxi or taking a shuttle bus to the airport.
Safety
- Most national governments provide regularly updated foreign travel advice on safety issues involved with international travel. We recommend that you check your government's advice for their latest travel information before departure and ensure that your travel insurance covers you for all destinations and activities on your trip. Please refer to our website's safety page for links to major travel advisories and updates on safety issues affecting our trips here: We strongly recommend the use of a neck wallet or money belt while travelling, for the safe-keeping of your passport, flight tickets, cash and other valuable items. Leave your jewellery at home - you won't need it while travelling. Many of our hotels have safety deposit boxes, which is the most secure way of storing your valuables. A lock is recommended for securing your luggage. Your group leader or local representative will accompany you on all included activities, however, during your trip you'll have some free time to pursue your own interests or relax and take it easy. While your group leader or local representative will assist you with the available options in a given location, please note that any optional activities you undertake are not part of your Intrepid itinerary, and Intrepid makes no representations about the safety of the activity or the standard of the operators running them. Please use your own good judgement when selecting an activity in your free time. Please also note that your group leader or local representative has the authority to amend or cancel any part of the trip itinerary if it's deemed necessary due to safety concerns. Intrepid's operational safety policies can be viewed on our website at the link below. We recommend that you take a moment to read through this information before travelling, and would appreciate any feedback on how safety is being managed on our trips.
- THEFT AND PERSONAL SAFETY While travelling there is always the risk of pick-pocketing and petty theft, particularly in the more touristy cities. We recommend that you exercise caution when walking alone at night and encourage you to walk together and only on main, well-lit thoroughfares. Be particularly vigilant on public transport. Simple measures like carrying your day pack on your front, not hanging your bag over the back of your chair or on the floor and wearing a money belt will reduce any chance that your valuables should go missing.
- FIRE PRECAUTIONS: Please be aware that local laws governing tourism facilities in this region differ from those in your home country and not all the accommodation which we use has a fire exit, fire extinguishers or smoke alarms.
- VOLCANOES Volcanos in Iceland has been showing growing activity in recent months. An eruption of the volcano is often accompanied by flash floods. Authorities warn that travellers could have as little as 15 minutes to get to safety (higher ground) in the case of an eruption. Text messages will be sent to all mobile devices in the affected areas, advising residents and travellers to evacuate or move to safety. Therefore, please make sure that your mobile phone is turned on and international roaming is enabled while in the area.
- SEAT BELTS: Please be aware that local laws governing transportation safety may differ from those in your home country and not all the transport which we use is able to provide seat belts.
- TRAFFIC AND DRIVING ON THE OTHER SIDE OF THE ROAD: Depending on where you come from please note that drivers in this part of the world may drive on the opposite side of the road from what you are used to. Look both ways before crossing any road. Traffic can be a little more chaotic than you might be used to at home. Be aware!
Medical and health information
- All travellers need to be in good physical health in order to participate fully on this trip. For the safety and wellbeing of yourself and others, if you are unwell prior to travelling, please stay at home and contact us to make alternative arrangements.
- When selecting your trip please make sure you have read through the itinerary carefully and assess your ability to manage and enjoy our style of travel. Please note that if in the assessment of our group leader or local representative a traveller is unable to complete the itinerary without undue risk to themselves and/or the rest of the group, we reserve the right to exclude them from all or part of a trip without refund.
- You should consult your doctor for up-to-date medical travel information or for any necessary vaccinations before departure. We recommend that you carry a first aid kit as well as any personal medical requirements in their original packaging as they may not easily be obtained while travelling. If you are carrying medication, ensure you check your government's foreign travel advice for any local restrictions or requirements.
GENERAL HEALTH
Food and dietary requirements
- While travelling with us you'll experience the vast array of wonderful food available in the world. Your group leader or local representative will be able to suggest restaurants to try during your trip. To give you the maximum flexibility in deciding where, what and with whom to eat, generally not all meals are included in the trip price. This also gives you more budgeting flexibility. As a rule our groups tend to eat together to enable you to taste a larger variety of dishes and enjoy each other's company. If you have dietary requirements and/or food allergies, please let your booking agent know prior to departure.
- There are some continental breakfasts included on this trip which may simply include bread/toast or pastries, butter, jam, coffee/tea/juice (or similar).
- Vegetarians might find the menu selection in Europe less varied than they would see at home. Vegetarianism is not as common in this region and generally the choices are basic, involving vegetables, soups, salads, bread, cheese, fruit, yoghurt, eggs etc. Vegans and those on gluten-free diets may find this region very challenging and may need to supplement meals with their own supplies from supermarkets and markets. Wherever possible we will cater for dietary needs for any included meals, but there may be times when those with special requirements may need to provide their own.
- While travelling with us you'll experience the vast array of wonderful food available in Iceland. Your group leader will be able to suggest restaurants to try in Reykjavik. To give you maximum flexibility in deciding where, what and with whom to eat, generally meals aren't included in the trip price. This also gives you more budgeting flexibility. As a rule our groups tend to eat together to enable you to taste a larger variety of dishes and enjoy each other's company. There's no obligation to do this though. In remote areas outside of Reykjavik the only option for dinner will be at the guesthouse we are staying at. Some guesthouses have kitchen facilities that are free to use if you wish. Stock up on food at a supermarket prior to arrival if you would like to opt out eating at the guesthouse's restaurant. Your leader will be able to advise on the facilities available at the guesthouses used on your trip departure.
BREAKFASTS
VEGETARIANS
Important Notes
- What you need to bring will vary according to the trip style you have chosen, the countries you are visiting and when you are travelling. Generally speaking, we recommend you pack as lightly as possible and make sure that you are able to carry and lift your own luggage and walk with it for short distances or up or down a flight of stairs. Our travellers usually find the smaller their luggage is, the more they enjoy the trip not having to worry about carrying heavy bags! Aim to keep your main luggage under 15kg.
- Many travellers carry their luggage in a compact smaller suitcase or backpack with wheels. We recommend your bag has carry straps or handles so it is easy to lift and carry for the times you are unable to wheel it (ie. on rough surfaces or up steps).
- If you are taking overnight trains, or primarily using public transport then the smaller your luggage the easier it will be to store under or above bunks. Large suitcases may not be able to be taken on board. A lockable bag or small padlock for your bag will be useful especially when travelling on public transportation as well.
- You'll also need a day pack/bag to carry water, camera, swimming suit, waterproof pouch/bag for phone, hiking shoes and jacket etc. when you’re exploring during the day.
- Below we have listed the essentials for this trip
- Please bring your own water bottle to refill along the way. Although it can be difficult to avoid bottled water when travelling, please use the water dispensers which are provided on some of our vehicles and at some of our accommodation. Your group leader or local representative will advise whether tap water is safe to drink in your destination, and if it is, you can simply refill it with tap water. When unable to avoid bottled water, it is better to buy the largest available and distribute it into your smaller bottle for the day. If you are walking or trekking as part of your trip you will need to carry at least 2L of water with you.
- What you need to bring will vary according to when you are travelling. Generally speaking, we recommend you pack as lightly as possible and make sure that you are able to carry and lift your own luggage, and walk with it for short distances. Most travellers carry their luggage in a backpack, although an overnight bag with a shoulder strap would suffice if you travel lightly. Smaller bags or backpacks with wheels are convenient although we recommend your bag has carry straps. We also recommend you take a day pack/bag to carry water and a camera etc for day trips. As well as your clothes, passport and toothbrush and other items you always need to pack for travel, below are some items that you specifically need for this trip.
- During the winter months in Iceland, temperatures can drop to well below zero. We recommend to all our guests to bring good sturdy shoes for walking across snow or ice (good waterproof walking boots with a good grip), a warm wind and rainproof jacket and trousers, gloves or mittens, thermals and base layers, fleece, good head wear and sunglasses. You may also want to consider to rent gear upon arrival in Reykjavik. If the streets are iced over we recommend you purchase ice crampons, available in supermarkets in the centre of Reykjavik.
- In order for you to be able to experience Iceland's famous thermal baths please don't forget to bring your swimsuit and a spare towel for use in the baths.
- Consider bringing your own water bottle to refill along the way. The sale of bottled water contributes to an enormous environmental problem around the world. In addition to the water in bottles, the production of a 1 litre plastic bottle takes 2 litres of water and 200ml of oil. A large proportion end up in limited landfill or discarded in waterways and natural environments. Cold tap water is safe and good to drink so you can avoid the purchase of bottled water by refilling from the tap.
- Rain gear, including jacket with a hood and waterproof trousers
- Gloves or mittens, thermals and base layers, good head wear. This trip is operated in the winter months, but please bear in mind the weather may vary. Remember that quality winter clothes and footwear as well as rain gear is essential for this trip. You’ll enjoy your holiday to the fullest if you’re prepared for all kinds of weather!
- You may also want to consider to rent additional winter gear upon arrival in Reykjavik. If the streets are iced over we recommend you purchase ice crampons, available in supermarkets in the centre of Reykjavik
- Personal medical kit. Your leader will carry a large kit but we recommend you carry items such as blister relief, mild pain killers and bandaids.
- Water bottle. We recommend at least a 1.5 litre capacity. The sale of bottled water contributes to an enormous environmental problem around the world. In addition to the water in bottles, the production of a 1 litre plastic bottle takes 2 litres of water and 200ml of oil. A large proportion end up in limited landfill or discarded in waterways and natural environments.
- Swimwear for the optional visits to Iceland's thermal springs
- Camera with spare batteries. You won't be able to recharge during the day
- Earplugs and eye mask (for light sleepers)
BOTTLE
WINTER TEMPERATURES
THERMAL BATHS
WATER BOTTLE
ESSENTIALS
RECOMMENDED
OPTIONAL
Passport and visas
PASSPORT
You’ll need a valid passport to travel internationally and most countries require your passport to have a minimum of 6 months validity, so remember to check the expiry date.
We need your passport information to get everything ready for your trip so it’s important that the information on your booking matches your passport exactly. Please take care to provide the correct details. We recommend carrying a copy of the photo page of your passport while travelling and leaving a copy at home with family or friends.
VISAS & ENTRY REQUIREMENTS
Many countries require a visa and obtaining the correct visa for your trip and any countries you may transit through is your responsibility. We recommend you check your visa requirements as soon as you have booked your trip. This will ensure you have time to prepare your documents and for your visa application to be processed. You can check the entry requirements for your nationality on your government's foreign travel advisories, consular websites or on our page here: www.intrepidtravel.com/visa-entry-requirements
Travel insurance
Travel insurance is compulsory on all our trips for those travelling internationally. We require that at a minimum you are covered for medical expenses including emergency repatriation. If you are travelling within your home country or region please confirm before travel that you are entitled to access the public medical system easily should an accident occur. We strongly recommend all travellers have a policy that also covers personal liability, cancellation, curtailment and loss of luggage or personal effects. For international trips, you will not be permitted to join the group until evidence of travel insurance and the insurance company's 24-hour emergency contact number has been sighted by your group leader or local representative.
If you have credit card insurance your group leader or local representative will require details of the participating insurer/underwriter, the level of coverage, policy number, and emergency contact number rather than the bank's name and your credit card details. Please contact your bank for these details prior to arriving in-country.
For travellers who reside within the European Union, Switzerland or USA the requirement to purchase travel insurance cannot be compulsory. However the purchase of travel insurance is still highly recommended, and travellers from these regions who decline travel insurance when travelling outside of their home region must sign a Travel Insurance Waiver Form at the Group Meeting, recognizing personal responsibility for emergency medical and repatriation costs should they arise.
For assistance with travel insurance or other services, please visit the link below:
Responsible travel
Our Responsible Travel Policy outlines our commitment to preserving the environment, supporting local communities, protecting the vulnerable, and giving back to the places we travel. All our trip group leaders or local representatives, suppliers, and staff are trained on these principles and are core to us delivering sustainable, experience-rich travel.
Explore the different parts of our Responsible Travel Policy by visiting:
WHALING
We are big supporters of the protection of endangered species around the world. Although a global ban on commercial whaling came into effect in 1986, approximately 1,000 whales are still being killed every year, as Iceland, Norway and Japan ignore the ban. We strive not to visit places that serve whale on any of our trips, however often this is unavoidable and there is a likelihood that you will come across whale meat on a menu or at a market stand.
Climate and seasonal
Iceland winters are relatively mild due to the influence of the gulf stream. The coastal lowlands have an average January temperature of about 0 °C, while the temperatures in the highlands of central and northern Iceland generally fall well below −10 °C. Please keep in mind that the lowest winter temperatures in Iceland can be as low as −25 °C and −30 °C, so it is advised to dress accordingly.
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