Ultimate Iceland Adventure

  • 10 Days
  • Avg Group Size: 12
  • Activity Level 2
    • Activity Level 2

      Hikes on our Level 2 adventures are considered easy to moderate in difficulty.

    Read more about the Active Range

  • Trip Start: Reykjavik
  • Trip End: Reykjavik
Iceland Hiking Adventure Stelkur

Experience authentic Iceland as you hike and explore remote landscapes on our Ultimate Iceland Adventure.

There's no doubt you'll be left speechless as you roam Iceland's vast landscapes on our Ultimate Iceland Adventure. With local experts leading the way, you'll hike to view puffins ('Lundi'), dine at a traditional farm, explore the bubbling pools of Námaskard’s geothermal area, and admire Öxaràrfoss, Gullfoss and Skógafoss waterfalls. While it's no secret that Iceland is a feast for the eyes, what you may not know is how fascinating Icelandic people are. You'll witness their self-sufficiency and learn about their proud Viking heritage. In fact, their language today is very similar to what it was during the Viking Age! Iceland is commonly ranked as one of the happiest nations in the world, so prepare to have this attitude rub off when you're out and about exploring with the locals. Especially after exploring the Eastern Fjords and North Iceland areas, staying in cozy hotels, and indulging in hearty Icelandic cuisine.

Download Our Handy Trip Itinerary

Our Trip Itinerary contains all the exciting details you can expect to do on our trips. Get a clear picture of the adventures on this trip.

DOWNLOAD ITINERARY PDF

Ultimate Iceland Adventure ~ Itinerary

Trip Start: Reykjavik Trip End: Reykjavik

Download our Handy Trip itinerary

Our Trip Itinerary contains all the exciting details you can expect to do on our trips. Get a clear picture of the adventures on this trip

  • Day 1Arrive in Reykjavík

  • Day 2Exploring the Golden Circle - Þingvellir National Park, Geysir and Gullfoss

  • Day 3South Coast Waterfalls: Seljalandsfoss, Skógafoss and Svartifoss

  • Day 4Visit Múlagljúfur Canyon and Jökulsárlón Lagoon

  • Day 5East Fjords & Fljótsdalshérað

  • Day 6Stuðlagil Canyon and Dettifoss

  • Day 7Lake Mývatn and Godafoss

  • Day 8Snæfellsnes Pensisula

  • Day 9Snæfellsnes to Reykjavík

  • Day 10Return Home

  • Day 1

    Arrive in Reykjavík

    #80774

    Your trip begins in Reykjavík, the world’s northernmost capital and Iceland’s cultural hub. If you’ve flown in this morning, youll have some time before checking in to your hotel until 3pm, so we recommend unwinding after your flight at the famous Blue Lagoon hot pools that are on the way to Reykjavík - remember to keep your swimwear handy!

    After dropping your bags at the hotel you’ll have some free time to take in the vibrant streets - grab some last-minute gear at the many outdoor clothing stores or explore the harbor. Later, we’ll all meet at the hotel bar for a trip briefing and a welcome drink, where you’ll get to know your fellow travelers and guide before having a delicious meal in a local restaurant. You might find your first evening a little strange, to be strolling around in daylight!
    Accommodation: Hotel Reykjavík Centrum
    Meals: Dinner

  • Day 2

    Exploring the Golden Circle - Þingvellir National Park, Geysir and Gullfoss

    #80775

    Today the adventure really begins, as we head northeast to Þingvellir National Park, home to Iceland’s first National Assembly. We’ll stretch our legs at our first waterfall called Öxarárfoss (‘foss’ is Icelandicfor waterfall). As strange as it may sound, this is a human-made waterfall, as the water was diverted,back in the 9th Century, to provide members and visitors of the Icelandic parliament ‘Althingi’ withwater.

    There are lots of fascinating folklores about this region that you’ll soon discover! We will learn about Iceland’s Laugarvatn cave people, and have lunch at Efstidalur farm which offers a farm to table meal. After lunch, we will view the original Geysir Nature Reserve and the Gullfoss Waterfall.
    Accommodation: The Hill Hótel, Flúðir
    Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

    Þingvellir Hike: 1.9- 2.5 miles(3-4 kilometers)

    Geysir and Gullfoss Hike: 0.6 mile (1 kilometer)

     

  • Day 3

    South Coast Waterfalls: Seljalandsfoss, Skógafoss and Svartifoss

    #80776

    Today, we’ll explore three of Iceland’s most famous and spectacular waterfalls; first to Seljalandsfoss (where we can also walk behind the falls). Our journey continues alongside the soaring sea cliffs and moss-covered lava fields, where we’ll be able to see the infamous E15 ‘Eyjafjallajökull’ Volcano and the majestic Skógafoss where we will stop for a short hike. We’ll hunt for stone trolls along the wild and beautiful South Coast - these trolls occupy an immense portion of Icelandic folklore, described as big, stupid, and greedy, but sometimes kind and wise. We will stop in the picturesque little village of Vík for lunch on your own and where you can walk down to the big black beach below the village.

    After lunch we continue our drive along Mýrdalsjökull Glacier and Vatnajökull Ice Cap and its outlet glaciers. We will hike in Skaftafell National Park and explore the beautiful Svartifoss Waterfall, surrounded by basaltic columns. Tonight, we’ll relax in the wonderfully appointed Fosshótel, with impressive views down towards the coast. 
    Accommodation: Fosshótel Glacier Lagoon, Öraefi  
    Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

    Seljalandsfoss Hike: 0.3 miles (0.5 kilometer), 0.5-1 hour
    Elevation Gain/Loss:
    65 feet (20 meters) ascent, 65 feet (20 meters) descent

    Skógafoss Hike: 0.5 kilometers

    Svartifoss Hike: 2 miles (3.5 kilometers), 2 hours
    Elevation Gain/Loss:  
    435 feet (132 meters) ascent, 435 feet (132 meters) descent

  • Day 4

    Visit Múlagljúfur Canyon and Jökulsárlón Lagoon

    #80777

    A short drive brings us to the hidden canyon Múlagljúfur. We will hike along this magnificent canyon to visit two beautiful waterfalls Hangandifoss and Múlafoss, offering breathtaking views along the way. After the hike we have a picnic lunch before visiting Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon, a photographer’s dream, and a spot where you may see seals playing amongst the icebergs.

    After hiking the entire length of Iceland’s shortest river (blink and you’ll miss it), we’ll end up on the beach surrounded by stranded icebergs. We'll then continue to the small town of Djúpivogur for the night.
    Accommodation: Hotel Framtíð or similar  
    Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

    Canyon Múlagljúfur Hike: 3.6 miles (5.7 kilometers), 2 hours
    Elevation Gain/Loss:
    1,204 feet (367 meters) ascent

    Iceland's Shortest River Hike: 0.5 hour

  • Day 5

    East Fjords & Fljótsdalshérað

    #80778

    Today we will drive into the bottom of a narrow fjord and across the Öxi mountain pass to the fertile Fljótsdalshérað shire in East Iceland. We will drive through Iceland biggest “forest” Hallormsstaðarskógur to Hengifoss waterfalll. We will hike to this beautiful waterfall, 400 feet (128 m) high and the third highest in Iceland. It’s surrounded by basaltic strata with thin, red layers of clay between. After the hike we have lunch in a local Skriduklaustur café.

    In the afternoon, our adventure drive takes us to the picturesque fjord Borgarfjörður Eystri, a tiny fishing village, and a home to a large puffin colony where you’ll be able to see the charming puffins in Hafnarhólmi marina. We return to Egilsstadir for dinner and overnight. Tonight you will have the option to visit the Vök Baths. 
    Accommodation: Hotel Berjaya Egilsstaðir or similar  
    Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

    Hengifoss Hike: 3-3.7 miles (5-6 kilometers), 2 hours
    Elevation Gain/Loss: 1,325 feet (404 meters) ascent

    Hafnarhólmi Hike: 0.3 mile (0.5 kilometer), 1 hour

     

  • Day 6

    Stuðlagil Canyon and Dettifoss

    #80779

    Our journey this morning will into the Jökuldalur Valley where we will stop to admire the magnificent Stuðlagil canyon known for its columnar basalt rock formations and the blue-green water that run through it. We cross the East Highlands with a lunch stop at the tiny restaurant in Mödrudalur.

    After lunch we reach North Iceland, prepare to be amazed by the roaring Dettifoss, Europe’s most powerful waterfall. We will then drive towards Lake Mývatn where we explore the bubbling pools at Námaskard’s geothermal area on the way to our hotel. 
    Accommodation: Fosshotel Mývatn  
    Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

    Hiking: 1-3 miles (2-5 kilometers), 1.5 hours

  • Day 7

    Lake Mývatn and Godafoss

    #80780

    After breakfast we will hike through the field of spectacular lava formations at Dimmuborgir which are featured on HBO’s Game of Thrones and the pseudo craters at Skútustaðir. They are called pseudo craters as they are not caused by the actual explosion of volcanos but are a byproduct of their flowing lava. Our next stop today is at the picturesque Godafoss (Waterfall of the Gods) where we will stop for a short walk.

    From there a short drive brings us to Akureyri, the “capital” of North Iceland where you will have time to stroll around in town to find a nice lunch spot on your own and visit the botanical garden. We have around a 2-hour drive to reach our accommodation in the old part of the small town of Blönduós. 
    Accommodation: Hotel Blönduós  
    Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

    Dimmuborgir Hike: 2 miles (3.3 kilometers), 1 hour
    Elevation Gain/Loss: 984 feet (300 meters) ascent

    Skútustaðir Pseudo Craters Hike: 1.2 miles (2 kilometers), 1 hour

    Goðafoss Hike: 0.6 mile (1 kilometer), 0.5 hour


  • Day 8

    Snæfellsnes Pensisula

    #80781

    In the afternoon we continue towards the western part of Iceland. We set course to Snæfellsnes, a volcanic peninsula that stretches out from the Icelandic west coast and is divided by a chain of mountains that lies from east to west. The peninsula is dominated by the majestic Volcano Snæfellsjökull. We explore the northern coast of the peninsula with its small fishing towns, take photos of the picturesque and much-photographed mountain Kirkjufell.

    We have lunch in the village Ólafsvík and enter the Snæfellsjökull National Park where we stretch our legs by climbing up to the crater Saxhóll, 330 feet (100m) high, and the black beautiful beach Skarðsvík. We return to the beautiful town Stykkisshólmur where we have a short hike to the peninsula Súgandiseyr before for dinner. 
    Accommodation: Hotel Franciskus Stykkishólmur  
    Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

    Kirkjufell Hike: 0.6 mile (1 kilometer), 1 hour

    Saxhóll Hike: 0.6 mile (1 kilometer)
    Elevation Gain/Loss: 330 feet (100 meters) ascent, 330 feet (100 meters) descent

    Skarðsvík Hike: 1 hour

    Stykkishólmur and Súgadisey Hike: 1 hour

  • Day 9

    Snæfellsnes to Reykjavík

    #80782

    Today we will explore the South coast of the Snæfellsnes peninsula packed with attractions. We drive to the hamlet of Arnarstapi where we walk among the basaltic rock formations. We will explore the gorge Rauðafellsgjá and hike across the lava field at Búðir and up to the small mountain Búðaklettur where we will find a cave with a picnic lunch on the way.

    We will also visit a beautiful little black church and the yellow sand beach, before returning to our accommodation. In the afternoon we will make our way back to Reykjavík for our farewell dinner together. 
    Accommodation: Hotel Reykjavík Centrum  
    Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

    Arnarstapi Hike: 1.2 miles (2 kilometers), 1 hour

    Rauðafellsgjá Hike: 0.6 mile (1 kilometer), 1 hour

    Búðahraun Mountain Hike: 3.7-5 miles (6-8 kilometers), 2-3 hours

     

  • Day 10

    Return Home

    #80783

    This morning breakfast will be provided at the hotel, and if you’re flying home today you're free to make your own way to the Keflavík International Airport. 
    Accommodation: Not applicable
    Meals: Breakfast

Ultimate Iceland Adventure Departure Dates

Active Adventures

This trip is operated by our sister brand Active Adventures

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Included

  • 8 nights’ accommodation
  • 9 breakfasts, 6 lunches, 9 dinners
  • Our own highly experienced guides and leader, with you from start to finish
  • Industry-leading Guest-to-Guide ratio (averaging 6:1)
  • Your own ‘Account’, an online space with everything required for your adventure
  • Our knowledgeable Customer Service Team to answer your queries - just a phone call, email or chat away
  • Customer Service pre-trip phone calls to ensure you’re 'trip ready'
  • Unlimited snacks to keep you fuelled
  • Special ‘Wow!’ moments you'll never forget
  • All activities outlined in the itinerary
  • All necessary equipment (well-maintained and safe) for activities
  • Transportation in our air-conditioned vans - safe, clean, modern and comfortable!

What Our Guests Say

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Book Now With Our Price Promise

Our Price Promise is designed to give you complete confidence when booking your unforgettable adventure. Here's how it works...

  • Book your next adventure now (no need to wait for any Black Friday sales and risk missing out on your preferred departure date!)
  • If the price of your trip drops within 60 days of booking, we promise to honor the lower price and apply it to your trip

With our Price Promise you don't have to wait for future sales to get the best price.

So go for it - secure your preferred trip and departure date by booking your dream adventure now!

*Terms and conditions apply - see below

 

*Price Promise is available for bookings made on or after October 16, 2024. If the advertised price of your booked future trip decreases within 60 days of your original booking date, you can contact us to request the lower price be applied to your existing booking. You must contact us no later than 60 days from your original booking date and provide details of the available price/discount you wish to avail. The price of your trip can be changed only once and only if you contact us during the time at which the lower price is advertised/available. Price Promise cannot be combined with any other offers, promotions, or discounts. The company reserves the right to amend these terms and conditions at any time in its sole discretion. Other restrictions may apply.  

 

Useful Info

Where does the trip start?

On the first day of the trip, we'll meet you at the Hotel Reykjavik Centrum hotel bar in the evening for welcome drinks and a briefing at 5pm before dinner. You are welcome to book your pre-trip stay at this hotel directly or any other hotel in Reykjavik , though you must make your own way to the Hotel at the pre-designated time.

Where does the trip end?

Your trip ends after breakfast and you're free to fly out any time. You'll need to organise your own transfer to Keflavík International Airport (KEF) in time for your departing flight.

Is tipping expected in Europe?

Tipping is not expected in Europe however you might want to tip a little extra if you feel someone gave really fantastic service, but it's not really necessary. Many of our people also choose to tip their Active Adventures Europe trip leaders and local guides and we recommend USD$20 per day, per guest, per Trip Leader/guide. You are welcome to tip an equivalent amount in the local currency. There are plenty of ATM’s and banks in the larger towns of Europe.

What flights would you recommend?

Arrival: We recommend arriving in Reykjavik by 4pm. Many guests like to arrive a day or two early to accommodate potential flight delays and/or explore the city prior to your trip start.

Departure: Flying out on the last day of the trip, you can fly out anytime after breakfast.

What are the accommodations we stay at on this trip?

We have selected the accommodation on your trip for the stunning settings, unique character and adventuresome feel – it’s not designed as a tour of the fanciest hotels in Iceland, but they are all of sleek Scandinavian design and well thought out.

While each of the hotels will have laundry services available, these will be very expensive and often not the same day service. We recommend bringing enough clothing for the entire duration of your trip.

How much luggage can I bring on this trip?

You are allowed one piece of luggage on your trip, plus a daypack. Your main piece of luggage should not exceed 50 pounds (23 kilograms) and can be anything from a duffle bag to a sports bag with wheels or a suitcase. You'll also want a good quality backpack sized 25-30 liters (2000 cubic inches) to use throughout the days.

How fit do I need to be for this trip?

You’ll need a reasonable level of fitness for this trip. While you don’t have to be extremely fit, you should be in the habit of doing regular aerobic exercise, ideally involving some up hills and down hills and perhaps even carrying a pack! With a little preparation before your trip begins, you’ll enjoy the active and outdoor nature of your trip all the more.

Please head to our Fitness Guide for great tips on how to prepare along with a workout plan!

How do rooming arrangements work?

Trip prices are based on shared arrangements (typically two guests per room), unless otherwise stated. For solo travelers, we’ll pair you with another person of the same gender to share rooms and if there’s no one suitable to share with, there’s no forced single supplement. However, if you specifically request your own rooms, you can opt to pay the single supplement. Solo travelers who book within 120 days of departure, where there are no other solo travelers willing to share, will be required to pay the single supplement.

For Family Vacation bookings, families consisting of four guests traveling with children aged 17 and under will be automatically assigned one shared room. However, the following alternative rooming allocations are available:

  • Families consisting of four guests with all children aged 13 and above are welcome to opt for additional rooms as per advertised double occupancy adult rates.
  • Families consisting of four guests with at least one child aged 12 and under are automatically assigned a shared room. However, families can opt to pay the adult rates for all guests in their family to have an additional room.
  • The same principles apply for families consisting of more than four guests.

Rooming preferences are subject to availability and must be communicated in writing at time of booking. Automatic assignments as per this policy will be applied in the absence of any specification provided by guests. Any request for additional rooms during trips will be at guests’ own expense and subject to rates made available by the accommodation provider at the time. All minors (guests aged 17 and under) must be accompanied by at least one adult.

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