#northern lights jeep tour iceland

[icelandoffbeat]

Discover Iceland’s Off-the-Beaten-Path Adventures | A Journey of Exploration and Wonder

Iceland Adventure Holidays: A Nature Lover’s Dream

For those seeking a blend of adrenaline-pumping activities and awe-inspiring natural scenery, Iceland adventure holidays are the perfect choice. Iceland’s rugged landscapes offer endless opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts, from hiking through vast lava fields to ice climbing on towering glaciers. Adventurers can delve into Iceland’s wild beauty, tackling everything from the adrenaline-packed Laugavegur Trail to the thrilling river rafting experiences on the Hvítá River.

In addition to physical challenges, Iceland offers a unique connection with nature, where you can witness geothermal energy bubbling beneath the Earth’s crust, bathe in the famed Blue Lagoon, or stand before the mighty waterfalls like Gullfoss and Skógafoss. These experiences not only cater to the thrill-seeker but also provide serenity and peace in some of the world’s most unspoiled landscapes.

Iceland Exploration Tours: Explore Hidden Gems

While the popular Golden Circle tour and Blue Lagoon are often on most tourists’ itineraries, Iceland exploration tours take you beyond the usual spots, guiding you to lesser-known natural wonders and cultural sites. These tours allow visitors to experience Iceland in its rawest form — away from the crowds and into the heart of untouched nature.

One of the most popular ways to explore the country is through self-drive tours. Iceland’s Ring Road (Route 1) is the gateway to a journey filled with stunning coastlines, towering fjords, and ancient Viking history. However, true adventurers will want to go beyond the main roads, venturing into the highlands, where glacial rivers carve through valleys and geothermal hot springs lie waiting to be discovered.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Iceland Tours: Embrace the Unconventional

For travelers seeking experiences that go beyond the ordinary, off-the-beaten-path Iceland tours provide a unique opportunity to explore areas of the island that remain untouched by tourism. The central highlands, for instance, are a vast wilderness of volcanic deserts, towering mountains, and hidden oases.

Exploring Landmannalaugar, a geothermal wonder in the highlands, is one such off-the-beaten-path experience that leaves a lasting impression. Known for its colorful rhyolite mountains, steaming vents, and natural hot springs, Landmannalaugar offers some of the best hiking opportunities in the country. The Laugavegur Trail, a multi-day trek through the highlands, is a challenge for even the most experienced hikers, but the breathtaking scenery and sense of isolation make it worth every step.

Another hidden gem is Thórsmörk, a remote valley surrounded by glaciers and volcanic mountains. Accessible by modified super jeeps due to the rugged terrain, Thórsmörk is a hiker’s paradise, offering trails that take you through birch forests, glacial rivers, and panoramic vistas of the surrounding peaks.

Iceland Northern Lights Tours: A Celestial Spectacle

No trip to Iceland is complete without witnessing the awe-inspiring Northern Lights. Also known as the Aurora Borealis, this natural phenomenon draws visitors from around the world during the dark winter months. Iceland is one of the best places on Earth to see this celestial display, thanks to its proximity to the Arctic Circle and minimal light pollution.

Iceland Northern Lights tours offer expertly guided experiences that increase your chances of witnessing this magical event. Local guides monitor aurora activity and weather conditions to take you to optimal viewing spots on clear nights, often far from city lights.

For those seeking more than just the lights, combining a Northern Lights tour with other winter activities is highly recommended. Imagine snowmobiling across a glacier or soaking in a geothermal pool while the sky above you dances with hues of green, pink, and purple.

Iceland Photography Tours: Capturing the Wild Beauty

These tours are often led by professional photographers who understand the nuances of shooting in Iceland’s diverse environments, whether you’re capturing the Northern Lights, the midnight sun, or the rugged coastline. You’ll learn techniques for shooting in various conditions, from windy mountaintops to the icy shores of black sand beaches.

Photographers can also explore Iceland’s wildlife, with opportunities to capture puffins, arctic foxes, and even whales. The Vatnajökull National Park, home to Europe’s largest glacier, offers mesmerizing compositions of icy landscapes and towering ice caves, making it a must-visit for anyone seeking to improve their nature photography skills.

Conclusion

Iceland is an adventurer’s paradise, offering countless opportunities to explore its untamed wilderness and experience the raw power of nature. Whether you’re embarking on an Iceland exploration tour, going off the beaten path, chasing the Northern Lights, or capturing stunning landscapes through your lens, Iceland has something for every type of traveler.

By choosing these more unconventional routes and experiences, you not only get closer to Iceland’s authentic soul but also help preserve its delicate ecosystems by avoiding over-tourism. So pack your sense of adventure, and get ready for an unforgettable journey through Iceland’s otherworldly landscapes.

[discovericelandtours]

How A 4X4 Super Jeep Can Be An Excellent Choice For Your Private Tour In Iceland?

Iceland is a country that boasts some of the most incredible natural landscapes in the world, with an endless array of stunning waterfalls, glaciers, volcanoes, and geothermal wonders to explore. One of the best ways to experience the rugged beauty of Iceland is through a private tour in a 4X4 super jeep. Here are a few reasons why a super jeep tour can be an excellent choice for your next Icelandic adventure.

  Smoothly navigates rugged terrains

Firstly, a 4X4 super jeep is the perfect vehicle in your Private Tours in Iceland arranged by Discover, a renowned travel agency, for navigating Iceland’s challenging terrain. The country’s rugged landscapes and unpredictable weather can make it difficult to explore on foot or in a standard rental car. However, a super jeep is specifically designed to tackle Iceland’s rough terrain, with high clearance, powerful engines, and large, sturdy wheels that can traverse even the toughest of off-road conditions.

  You can customize the tour

Another benefit of a super jeep tour is the opportunity to customize your itinerary to suit your interests and preferences. With Private Tours in Iceland, you’ll have the flexibility to create a personalized itinerary that includes all of the sights and activities that interest you most. Whether you want to hike to a remote hot spring, explore an ice cave, or hunt for the Northern Lights, your tour guide will work with you to create a unique and unforgettable experience that matches your preferences.

  No compromise with comfort and luxury

In addition to the flexibility and convenience of a private tour, a super jeep tour also offers a level of comfort and luxury that is unmatched by other forms of transportation. With spacious and comfortable seating, climate control, and high-quality audio systems, you’ll be able to relax and enjoy the scenery in style. Additionally, many super jeep tours include amenities such as complimentary snacks and drinks, Wi-Fi, and even heated seats to keep you warm on chilly Icelandic days.

You will get an expert tour guide

Perhaps the most significant advantage of a super jeep tour, however, is the expertise and guidance of your tour guide. Iceland is a vast and complex country, with a unique history, culture, and natural environment. A knowledgeable and experienced tour guide can help you navigate this complex landscape, providing insights and context that will enhance your understanding and appreciation of Iceland’s wonders.

  Minimal environmental impact

Finally, a super jeep tour is an excellent choice for travelers who want to minimize their environmental impact. Many super jeep tours are operated by eco-conscious companies that prioritize sustainable tourism practices and minimize their carbon footprint.

  Final note

A 4X4 super jeep tour is an excellent choice for anyone looking to experience the natural beauty and unique culture of Iceland. With their ability to navigate even the most challenging terrain, customizable itineraries, luxurious amenities, knowledgeable guides, and eco-conscious practices, super jeep tours offer an unparalleled way to explore this incredible country. So why not book your private tour today and discover all that Iceland has to offer?

  To get the latest updates visit our blog and follow us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and subscribe to our YouTube channel.

[ashwanias]

iceland day tour  |  day tours iceland - alwaysiceland

Alwayiceland Excursions offers a variety of day tours Iceland. Choose a tour category you like, or search for available tours using our search engine. Guided Adventure Trips & Outdoor Activities in  Iceland day tour.· Silfra Fissure Snorkeling Tour - Into The Blue · Northern Lights Super Jeep Tour.

[travelpointholidays]

Iceland Adventure Tour This is a real adventure of a tour including highlights such as the famous Geysir hot spring area, beautiful waterfalls, Blue Lagoon and much more! Prices start from £899pp and includes: 2 Nights (1st & 4th) at Grand Hotel Reykjavik 2 Nights (2nd & 3rd) at Hotel Selfoss Also includes... Breakfast Blue Lagoon admission including towel & 1 drink Evening hunt for the Northern Lights Shared schedule transfers to/from Reykjavik Airport Flights from London Luton Airport* 15kg Hold Luggage Availability in March 2023 With your whole itinerary planned, you can trust THG Holidays to provide an unforgettable experience! All holidays booked with us are ABTA & ATOL protected. *Alternative flight options available from London Heathrow, Gatwick, Bristol, Birmingham & Manchester This package offer includes: - 2 Nights (1st & 4th ) at Grand Hotel Reykjavik with Breakfast - 2 Nights (2nd & 3rd ) at Hotel Selfoss with breakfast - Blue Lagoon admission including towel & 1 drink - Shared schedule transfers to/from Reykjavik Airport - Flights from London Luton Airport ** - Flying with Easyjet - 15kg Hold Luggage The tour is designed to maximise your chances of witnessing the amazing Northern Lights, travelling with experienced guides and staying at Hotel Selfoss on the South Coast with great views in all directions. You will be in the vicinity of volcanoes and glaciers, driving along black volcanic sands and glacial rivers. It’s aslo time to jump in a super jeep, strap on your crampons and step onto the mighty ice cave of Myrdalsjokull glacier. Visit a rift valley, an erupting geyser and the breathtaking waterfalls of Gullfoss, Skógafoss and Seljalandsfoss. You also get to immerse yourself in the wonderful warmth and luxury of steaming geothermal water. The lovely Riverside spa at Hotel Selfoss is inspired by icelandic nature and The Blue Lagoon is a world famous wellness and spa attraction. https://www.instagram.com/p/CmFaafuM0tJ/?igshid=NGJjMDIxMWI=

[icelandprivatetour]

Knowing Iceland Adventurously – Private Tours

 The beautiful, floating, Nordic water-locked country of Iceland has pristine natural magnificence, still unexplored. We ensure you travel to Iceland, and enjoy an immersive experience, exploring its Northern Lights, ice caves, glaciers, lush green mountains, black sand beaches, lava fields, waterfalls, hot springs, city life and beyond.

Who we are?

We, Private Tours, are an emerging travel agency, focusing on customized Iceland Private Tours. Whether you live in USA, Canada, UK or Australia, we provider you the best range of private tours in Iceland that enable you to deeply explore the beauty of Iceland with a detailed itinerary and without any hassles.

What are the facilities we provide to the tourists?

It is a good question. We have a convincing answer. Customer travel interests are the major priorities for us, when we organize private trips Iceland. We also render the services of a private guide Iceland during the tour.  

·         An extensive day tour to Golden Circle on a Super Jeep

·         A 4 x $ tour to the famous Reykjanes Peninsula

·         A day tour to Blue Lagoon

·         An exciting travel package to the lovely Thorsmork Valley

·         A comprehensive tour covering both The Golden Circle and The South Coast

·         A grand tour to the South Coast on a super jeep

·         A day trip to the captivating Snaefellsnes Peninsula

·         A trip to Diamond Beach in Jökulsárlón

·         An exclusive tour focusing on the sighting of the magical Northern Lights

·         A cozy day trip to the ever-beautiful terrain of Landmannalaugar

There are more varieties of travel packages that we offer, such as multi-day tours that cover most of the places mentioned above. Our dedication remains on providing the best value for the time and money you spend in exploring Iceland.

Why will you choose us?

Are you still wondering about whether to choose our travel packages or not? From a practical perspective, there are plenty of reasons to choose our services. A few of those reasons are:

·         We know everything about traveling in Iceland

·         Our professionals and tour operators are experienced

·         There is a provision of customizing the itinerary of your tour

·         We provide professional guide, if needed

·         Our super jeeps are robust vehicles, perfect to drive across Icelandic terrains and in rough weather

·         There is numerous travel packages we offer that you can flexibly explore and choose

·         It is very easy to book a travel package online

We offer the best prices

You would be delighted to know that the rates we offer are very reasonable. Our prices are competitive, according to the usual market standards. We have budget-friendly tour packages for our enthusiastic customers. You can conveniently afford our extensive services.

Ultimate luxury and comfort

We never compromise with the standard of our services. The focus remains on providing our customers luxury and comfort of the highest order. We create immense value for you when you spend time in Iceland.

Get in touch with us

Do you want to know more about our travel packages and services? Do not hesitate to call us. You can shoot an e-mail, too.

Blog source: http://privatetour.is/2021/12/04/knowing-iceland-adventurously-private-tours/

[marfahozai-blog]

Now is the time to patronise Iceland escorted tours packages

Usually, tourists think of Iceland as a place to visit in the summer or winter. This is probably because of the blankets of white and the Northern Lights and the endless days that they would see when they go to joy Iceland at such times. However, when you check out go to joy reviews you would discover that other times of the year are also available to visit this wonderful country.

If you have always wanted to explore this country now is the best time to consider Iceland escorted tours packages. With then you can enjoy tours near Reykjavik. Here are some reasons why you should visit this country today:

·         You can visit this country for free – since the early 1960s, Icelandair has been offering its passengers an opportunity to enjoy free stopovers in Iceland. To qualify for this free trip, you should have booked one of their transatlantic flights. It would be a good idea to check out this wonderful country if you are heading to the US.

 ·         The country shares the same language as the Vikings – The language of Iceland has not been changed from ancient Norse. You can essentially become a Viking by learning a couple of phrases when you go to joy Iceland.

 ·         The country is refreshing and tolerant – from 2009 to 2013, the country had the first openly gay head of government Johanna Sigurdardottir who oversaw the legalization of same-sex marriage. The country also had the first democratically elected female president in the world when Vigdis Finnbogadottir served the country between 1980 and 1996.

 ·         When it comes to whale watching this country is the best place in Europe – between April and October, blues, bottlenose, minkes, and humpbacks ply the Arctic and North Atlantic waters surrounding Iceland because the water there is rich in fish. When you take any of the tours near Reykjavik you can also watch whales, especially when you go to Husavik on the north coast which is the best place for viewing them. Almost a 100 percent success rate has been recorded by the local operators in the sightings and the surroundings are magical with their quiet, calm bays flanked by snow-capped mountains.

 ·         This is the land of the Super Jeep – if you are wondering what is the best way to cross the volcanic crater-pocked plains and glaciers of this country, then your best option would be the eight-wheeled tractor-sized trucks. Once you go to joy Iceland and experience these super jeeps you would never feel the same in your car.

 ·         There are perfect puffins – the puffins return to land from the ocean in April. When they do, they build their nests in rocky cliffs after they have settled on the Icelandic coast. Good spots to admire these tiny and colorful birds would be around the south coast near Vik, the Westman Islands and Latrabjarg cliff in the Westfjords. You need to hurry and book your next Iceland escorted tours packages before they head back out in the latter part of summer.

[shrus3758]

Secret Things No One Tells You For Your Iceland Tour In Winter

Winters serve a lot of cold and snow; however, the temperature just isn't as extreme as people might generally assume that it is. In reality, Iceland has forever retained its transitional weather, in other words, a day records several changes. This might would be the harshest blizzards to slowly developing storms to rainfall and sunshine as well.

While planning my summer tour to Iceland I was searching for best Iceland Trip Cost from India and bumped into this amazing site providing a great touring adventure at pocket suiting costs with lavish services and best treatment.

Things you should know about Iceland winter adventure tours?

Winters may have an everlasting impact on tourists. Not merely will visitors have the gilded opportunities of discovering the ice caves underneath the massive glaciers but in addition attend the festivals which can be prevalent during such seasons of the year. To relish a getaway with satisfaction and avoiding nuisance as you go along there are specific things which have to be considered.

Firstly, what to pack?

Wearing in layers are definitely the most important in the case of Iceland tour. One needn't overload the bag with a lot of clothes or accessories that could ultimately over-weigh the bag. What one requires during winters are woolen apparels like sweaters, thermal t-shirts, woolen innerwear, waterproof jackets and compatible boots for trekking on snow.

Individuals preferably should wear jackets, sweatshirts, and thermal inner-wear (in layers) which may be worn or taken-off as per the requirement of the weather conditions. Towels can also be suggested for drying purposes, as an example touring the new springs or icy terrains would require instant drying frequently, or even the chilly weather might result in a bad the event of cold through the holidays.

Other fashion accessories include shades, swim-suits, sunscreen, and face-masks. The sunlight in Iceland causes skin-tan if lotions or protective covers aren't properly applied.

Secondly, how you can travel?

The roads in Iceland get filled by snow and ice during winters, mainly in the sparsely populated parts. Actually, almost all resides beside the area of Reykjavik. So, while touring travelers should primarily fix the ride. It's feasible to use heavy-duty jeeps with customized tyres that may penetrate from the snow and access the difficult parts.

Driving experience can be another necessity. Without correct skills, the slippery road will actually develop into a hindrance for effortless driving. Furthermore, with all the appropriate vehicle, GPS signals and ability to drive, travelers will simultaneously be able to benefit from the thrill of riding amidst the snow-filled parts of Iceland.

Tourist attractions

The country has certainly the best of natural sights and festivities for your amusement of holidaymakers. Winter is the perfect season to experience the northern lights, as the climate is favorable enough to result in the sensation. On top of that, winters paint the heavens with arid colors through the Sun's long decent over the horizon, altogether creating a special natural spectacle just like the Northern Lights.

Festivals would be the Dark Music Days held in the Reykjavik. The time of year also hosts exciting events like the Reykjavik International Games, featuring many sports/games like snow sports, wrestling/karate, and athletics.

While browsing the Internet I came across this amazing site which is expertise in Northern Lights Iceland. It truly would have been a wonderful experience to see it for anyone who is also checking out for same style of travels. Have a visit to the site for more information.

Conclusively, winters usually are not that melancholic or frosty as people presume it could be. Quite the opposite, the weather sees more rainfall and demands visitors to wear rainproof apparels, that too worn in tiers. With the natural sightings and events that take place while in the season, Iceland is a real paradise to the enthusiastic tourist to sets off to discover the profound facets of nature.

[smarttrips-4-u-blog]

Visit Www.smarttrips4u.com #Expolre world #Iceland Iceland is one of the most sort after tourist destinations in the world. Be it the Northern lights, whale watching, fire & ice tours or just the raw beauty of the country. It is a must visit for an avid traveler. A great adventure or exploration trip for couples, families & groups. We can arrange a great trip to Iceland for you from India or anywhere else in the world.   Whats Included! Price per person for a minimum of 2 passengers (on twin sharing basis) Arrival transfer with a private driver Golden Circle tour with a private driver-guide in a regular car Entrance to the Exclusive Bath and Lounge in the Blue Lagoon Towel, bathrobe and light refreshments at the Blue Lagoon Transfer to/from the Blue Lagoon with a private driver Flight tour "Ice and Fire – Glaciers and Volcanoes ", ca. 1,15-1,45 hours Private Reykjavik City Sightseeing with time to shop Full day private Super Jeep tour with a driver-guide to explore West Iceland 6 nights at Centrum hotel or Arnarhvollhotel (different rates) 6 breakfast, 1 dinner, 3 course, at a local restaurant in Reykjavík, 1 lunch box on day 2 and day 5 https://www.instagram.com/p/B1EiiHnForw/?igshid=whoqcg135tai

[northernlightsiniceland]

Experiencing the Northern Lights in Fascinating Iceland

Many people dream of a holiday to experience a sighting of the famous natural phenomenon, best place to see northern lights in Iceland . Iceland offers an ideal place to visit for this purpose: it has a milder climate than continental destinations, an excellent chance of seeing the aurora borealis and a wide range of additional activities to make for a well-rounded holiday. Travelling with an established tour operator will, naturally, take a lot of the stress out of arrangements, but before setting off it is useful to consider the important matter of clothing, the Icelandic Met Office's Aurora Forecast, the "Full Moon Effect", and, of course, what else there is to do besides seeing the lights.

Clothing

The Gulf Stream in the Atlantic Ocean ensures the country's weather is markedly milder than in continental countries such as Sweden, where temperatures can regularly reach as low as -30C. Here, the temperatures do not fall nearly as low and snowfall is not typically thick at sea level, resulting in a more comfortable experience when chasing the Northern Lights. Iceland's weather is, however, known for being changeable, so it is strongly recommended to wear layered clothes for convenience.

Aurora Forecast

In order to predict the best chance of seeing the Northern Lights, Iceland's Met Office offers an Aurora Forecast, combining information about predicted aurora activity, cloud coverage, the moon cycle and moon rise times, and sunset and sunrise times. Visitors travelling with experienced tour operators will not need to worry about checking the forecast, as their operators will do this on their behalf in order to keep groups updated - but it is interesting information nonetheless. Independent travellers and science buffs will find it invaluable.

"Full Moon Effect"

There has been a lot of discussion of the "full moon effect": specifically whether the light of the full moon obscures the light of the Northern Lights. Assertions that the moon out-shines the aurora borealis are untrue. Though the increased light in the sky reduces the contrast between the sky and the lights, it certainly does not prevent sightings. High solar activity, low cloud cover and the lack of artificial light are all considerably more important aspects. Tour operators will ensure that groups are taken far from artificial lights on suitable nights for optimal viewing. In actual fact, some photographers claim to have taken their most spectacular shots of the aurora during a full moon.

Other Sights

Beyond seeing the Northern Lights, Iceland has a plenty more to offer as well. From a taste of puffin in one of Reykjavik's fine restaurants to a jeep tour over the country's rugged landscape, or a visit to the Blue Lagoon complete with spa treatment on the way to the airport, visitors will not be disappointed with this fascinating island.

Abigail Collins is director of Aurora Nights, a company offering a select range of once in a lifetime holidays to see the Northern Lights. For the best trips to experience the Northern Lights, Iceland and Swedish Lapland are ideal destinations. Aurora Nights is part of Weekend a la Carte, a family-run company with vast in-depth knowledge based on their extensive travels to the region of the Aurora Borealis and passionate about giving superb client service.

[travelpointholidays]

Iceland Adventure Tour This is a real adventure of a tour including highlights such as the famous Geysir hot spring area, beautiful waterfalls, Blue Lagoon and much more! Prices start from £899pp and includes: 2 Nights (1st & 4th) at Grand Hotel Reykjavik 2 Nights (2nd & 3rd) at Hotel Selfoss Also includes... Breakfast Blue Lagoon admission including towel & 1 drink Evening hunt for the Northern Lights Shared schedule transfers to/from Reykjavik Airport Flights from London Luton Airport* 15kg Hold Luggage Availability in March 2023 With your whole itinerary planned, you can trust THG Holidays to provide an unforgettable experience! All holidays booked with us are ABTA & ATOL protected. *Alternative flight options available from London Heathrow, Gatwick, Bristol, Birmingham & Manchester This package offer includes: - 2 Nights (1st & 4th ) at Grand Hotel Reykjavik with Breakfast - 2 Nights (2nd & 3rd ) at Hotel Selfoss with breakfast - Blue Lagoon admission including towel & 1 drink - Shared schedule transfers to/from Reykjavik Airport - Flights from London Luton Airport ** - Flying with Easyjet - 15kg Hold Luggage The tour is designed to maximise your chances of witnessing the amazing Northern Lights, travelling with experienced guides and staying at Hotel Selfoss on the South Coast with great views in all directions. You will be in the vicinity of volcanoes and glaciers, driving along black volcanic sands and glacial rivers. It’s aslo time to jump in a super jeep, strap on your crampons and step onto the mighty ice cave of Myrdalsjokull glacier. Visit a rift valley, an erupting geyser and the breathtaking waterfalls of Gullfoss, Skógafoss and Seljalandsfoss. You also get to immerse yourself in the wonderful warmth and luxury of steaming geothermal water. The lovely Riverside spa at Hotel Selfoss is inspired by icelandic nature and The Blue Lagoon is a world famous wellness and spa attraction. (at Birmingham, United Kingdom) https://www.instagram.com/p/Ci9wL8_sGeS/?igshid=NGJjMDIxMWI=

[microsstinatir-blog]

A trip to Iceland in winter – things you should know before you go!

While in the past Iceland seemed to be some sort of mission impossible during the winter, it nowadays is quite common to travel to Iceland in winter time. In fact, it has become much easier. Hotels often open their rooms for tourists 365 days a year, tourist attractions are open and / or more accessible and the main road network is well maintained. The Icelanders already knew that tourism is a gold mine, but it seems that they have turned it into a sport to make Iceland attractive to tourists in the winter. Think of the many Northern Lights tours that are available, but also excursions such as Into the Glacier and the glacier walk on Solheimajökull can now be done in the winter.     Even though I have been to Iceland three times before in the winter, it was now the first time I rented a car rental car myself and was able to discover Iceland on my own and in complete freedom. My previous winter visits to Iceland were due to the fact that I worked for a company specialized in trips to Iceland for 10 years. So this time it was a vacation and I found the winter road trip in Iceland that we made a special experience.     Yet Iceland is a destination where you have to be genuinely alert and use your common sense at all times. It is certainly not a destination for travelers who think they are above nature. If you haven’t read it yet, be sure to check out this blog with my special experiences with other tourists in Iceland.     That said, I think that Iceland in winter is truly a very special destination and for many probably a once in a lifetime experience. There are just a few things that you should take into consideration when you head to Iceland in the winter. I list them below for you!  

Þingvallavatn in winter

  Mother Nature rules. Always!

If there is one place on earth where Mother Nature makes her own rules, it is in Iceland. The Icelandic landscape is always in motion and the Icelanders are always alert for the next volcanic eruption, a hurricane or other forms of natural disasters. In Iceland you can literally experience four seasons in one day, even in the summer. Nowhere in the world I have seen the weather change so incredibly quickly as in Iceland. In addition, when Mother Nature makes herself heard, this is often with immense power. Roads are closed every once in a while, the rain and snow are notorious because they often approach you horizontally and the waves at the beaches on the Icelandic south coast are often so gigantic that tourists are at times swept away by them.  

The road from Keflavík to Þorlákshöfn

  Be flexible

The Icelandic weather cannot be predicted, but if the forecast is bad, you’d better prepare yourself and act accordingly. On the day that David and I went to Jökulsárlón and Fjallsárlón it was sunny in the morning, but it turned out that a storm was heading for the South Coast in the evening. Because of this we had to drive back on time to our overnight address in Hveragerði. Due to this, we were unfortunately unable to make stops at some tourist highlights, but the other option was to get stuck as the road would be closed for a while.   Always keep an eye on the news, especially in the winter. At many gas stations and often at the reception of your accommodation, they have the most up-to-date information regarding the weather and the road. Also bookmark the website with weather forecasts – on this site you will find everything that has to do with Icelandic weather and it’s in English!     If you think you can play with Mother Nature and her powers, visit the films that are being shown in the Volcano House in Reykjavík, about a number of recent volcanic eruptions. After seeing these films you have changed your mind. I promise!  

There’s always danger in Iceland

  The Icelandic cold is different

Before we left for Iceland, it seemed as if we were not going to be experience a significant cold. The predictions indicated about 5-10 degrees Celcius, which is quite warm by Icelandic standards for winter. Once I arrived in Iceland I was very happy with my fat Fjällräven Singi Parka that I had received for this trip to test. I had almost forgotten how cold and strong the Icelandic wind can be. Although it has been above freezing all week, there have been times when I was terribly cold because the wind … More tips on how to stay warm in Iceland in winter can be read here.  

Winter near Gullfoss

  Not all roads are open

When you are planning an Iceland road trip in the winter, keep in mind that many roads are closed. This applies to all unpaved highland routes, but also paved roads can be closed off just like that. The Icelandic interior is only accessible with a super jeep and under supervision and therefore not with your rental car. You will find clear deposits everywhere with reports that the road is closed and that you continue to drive at your own risk. So don’t!     The Icelandic ring road (1) is normally accessible all year round, as well as the roads to popular sights such as the Golden Circle but also those to the Blue Lagoon, Jökulsárlón and the Snæfellsnes peninsula. Nevertheless, it makes sense to plan your route a bit more flexible and to leave spare for the possibility to chage your plans at the very last minute.     Tip: if you only do the south coast, then I advise you to do this from Hveragerði or Hella. You can see all the sights in one go, unless you want to do things that take a little more time, such as the DC3 plane wreck or a glacier walk on Sólheimajökull. Yet it happens occasionally that people get stuck along the south coast for example because of the weather and if you have to be back in time in Reykjavík to catch your flight, this is not exactly ideal. Preferably book overnight stays that you can cancel without penalties so that you can make changes to your itinerary where necessary.  

David and the superjeep – only these ones are allowed in the highlands in winter

  itinerary for 6 days South coast Iceland in winter

Our program consisted of 5 nights in Hveragerði and 1 night in Keflavík near the airport. From Hveragerði we did the following things:     Day 1. Arrival and drive via Seltún to Hveragerði Day 2. Visit Golden Circle (Geysir, Gullfoss, Þingvellir) Day 3. Visit Secret Lagoon and Rekjavík Day 4. Hiking in Reykjadalur Day 5. South coast incl. Jökulsárlón and Fjallsárlón Day 6. Reykjavík and Lava Tour aanes Peninsula Day 7. Flight home     You can read more about my Iceland in winter itinerary in the next blog!    

Rent your car with care!

For this trip I was doubting whether I would really need a 4WD car, also because it is no less than twice as expensive as regular 2WD rental cars in Iceland. Eventually I got the opportunity to rent a car through Sunny Cars and we opted for the normal car, the second smallest. In the winter on Iceland, rental cars are fitted with winter tires with spikes, which means that a 4WD is not really necessary, unless you have meters of snow, but you can of course never predict this in advance. My Icelandic friend Birna indicated that it is seldom necessary to have a 4WD in the winter and that people with experience in winter conditions can normally just go on a regular rental car.    In addition, we had the idea that, when snow packs were expected, we could always ask for an upgrade on the spot. There are really huge loads of rental cars in Iceland due to the summer season being insanely busy, so there’s a good chance they still have a 4WD available.  

Rental car in Iceland in winter

    If you don’t want to drive your own vehicle, then check out these Iceland tours which can basically take you anywhere in Iceland  

Ice Ice Baby!

As mentioned, we did not have snow during our trip, but there was still snow left in some places. Black sand is scattered at most tourist attractions to take away the ice, but not everywhere. This made it treacherously slippery to walk in some places and sometimes we had to shuffle little by little. Also during our hike in Reykjadalur we regularly had to cross an ice field. Tip: take rubber crampons with you!   Also read: the best things to buy in Iceland!  

Winter near Gullfoss, Geysir and Fjallsárlón

  There is no such thing as a Northern Lights guarantee

This may sound a bit odd, but my friend Birna works at Safe Travel Iceland and is asked daily “when the Northern Lights will show …”. Somewhat people still expect that there’s some kind of guarantee that you’ll see the Northern Lights when you’re in Iceland in winter. I didn’t see any Northern Lights this time and only very vague during my previous travels, but that was partly because I was in the city at the time and so there was too much light pollution. Although we slept in Hveragerði this time and almost in the middle of nowhere, we have not seen Northern Lights. It was bad luck as it was cloudy all the time and my advice would be to consider the Northern Lights as a nice bonus during your winter trip in Iceland – certainly not as a standard or you’ll end up disappointed. In case you want to go on a hunt, make sure to sign up for a Northern Lights Tour!  

Skyr at Jökulsárlón

  Finally: be safe!

I can’t say it often enough, but be careful in Iceland. Do not throw plastic cups into the geysers, stay on the marked trails, act like a responsible person who respects nature and use common sense at all times should the weather or other circumstances change rapidly. Iceland is a very unique travel destination and it would be nice if the next generation after us could also enjoy this beauty the way we do.    

Conclusion and disclaimer

Hopefully you found this article about Iceland in the winter useful and helped you plan your journey to Iceland. We were offered our rental car in exchange for our honest review. In addition, you will find some affiliate links in this article. If you place an order via one of these links, I will receive a small commission at no extra cost for your. Thank you for reading and enjoy your winter trip to Iceland!  

The post A trip to Iceland in winter – know before you go! appeared first on we12travel.com.

[emilyzh2019-blog]

What’s the Best Time to Visit Iceland?

When To Visit Iceland

Learn the best time to visit Iceland this year with tips for traveling during the summer high season, the winter low season, and when to see the northern lights.

Iceland’s long days of sunlight and warm weather conditions convince most people to visit Iceland during the spring and summer months (May – September).

But the best time to go to Iceland really depends on what you want from your trip. Iceland is a popular vacation destination year-round for different reasons.

In this travel guide, I’ll help you to figure out when is the best time to visit Iceland for a Golden Circle road trip, to see the northern lights, when to see wildlife, how to experience Icelandic wildflowers, or when to avoid the crowds in the off-season.

I’ll also go over some of the best seasonal attractions, festivals, and highlights in Iceland depending on which months you’re planning to be there!

My Favorite Time To Visit Iceland

Personally, after multiple trips to the country, my favorite time to visit Iceland is during the shoulder season in autumn (fall).

The months of September and October are especially good times to visit.

Fall is a Wonderful Time to Visit!

Why Visit In The Fall?

By mid-September, many people’s “summer vacations” are over, and most of the tourists have gone home. Certainly not all, but a majority of them. It’s less crowded.

You’ll still find plenty of tourists at Iceland’s most popular attractions, but it’s more manageable in the autumn. Fall is also a great time to save money on hotels in Iceland (because they aren’t cheap!)

Iceland’s incredible Northern Lights (aurora borrelias) start to become more visible and frequent in late September and early October too.

You can also still drive around the Icelandic highlands via remote F-Roads, which usually get closed by October as the first snow storms hit.

Camping in September for Northern Lights Season in Iceland

Best Time For Northern Lights

Technically, the Northern Lights in Iceland can be seen from September through April. But September – October and February – March, particularly around the equinoxes – are the best months to see this spectacular natural light show. For a detailed guide on how to find and photograph the northern lights, click here.

Best Season For Photography

While I’m of the opinion that you’ll get great photos in Iceland no matter what season you visit, each has its own benefits. The autumn and winter light is particularly spectacular, as the sun stays low to the horizon throughout the day while sunsets and sunrises can last for hours. Plus, the northern lights of course.

Good Months For Whale Watching

Whale watching season in Iceland happens from April to October. But the peak season for whales is June, July, and August. Tours are available from Reykjavik, the Vestmannaeyjar Islands, and Akureyri.

When Is The Best Weather?

The best time to visit Iceland for great weather is during the summer high season. July and August have average highs around 13°C (55°F) however temperatures can be as high 20°C (68°F). Surprisingly, the spring months of May and June have the least amount of rain.

Best Season To Save Money

Hotels, airfare, tours, and car rentals in Iceland are cheapest during the winter months (November, December, January, February) — aside from the holidays. Everything is more expensive in the summer (July & August). For the best combination low prices and decent weather, go during the shoulder seasons: May – June or September – October.

Best Time To Avoid Crowds

Iceland has become incredibly popular over the last few years. If you’re trying to avoid the crowds, avoid visiting Iceland during the summer months of June – August. Winter has the fewest tourists, but also the coldest temperatures.

High & Low Seasons in Iceland

High & Low Seasons In Iceland

Visiting Iceland In The Summer: June – August (High Season)

Iceland’s warmest peak season sees hoards of tourists arrive in Reykjavik to take advantage of almost 24-hour sunlight. This is the warmest period to explore the country’s landscapes.

From late May to late July, Iceland’s famous midnight sun means there are almost 21 hours of daylight, from about 3am until midnight. The phenomenon peaks on June 21st, the summer solstice.

Most of the country’s popular attractions are open during the summer, and it also has the best driving conditions for a road trip. But it’s also the most crowded time to visit. Especially in July & August, the absolute peak of high season.

Summer Weather Conditions By Month

JUNE Average Rain: 36mm Average Low: 7ºC/44ºF Average High: 12ºC/53ºF

JULY Average Rain: 60mm Average Low: 8ºC/47ºF Average High: 13ºC/56ºF

AUGUST Average Rain: 118mm Average Low: 8ºC/47ºF Average High: 13ºC/56ºF

Pro’s Of Visiting In The Summer

All attractions are open

More daylight time to explore

Iceland’s best weather conditions

Con’s Of Visiting In The Summer

Overcrowded attractions

Higher prices for accommodation and car rentals

It can be hard to sleep with constant sunlight

USEFUL TIP: One way to avoid summer crowds is to sleep during the day and go sightseeing at night when everyone else is in bed, because the sun often doesn’t set until midnight and rises again at 3am!

Packing For Iceland In The Summer

Although many Icelandic locals will tell you that their summer season is nice and warm, they probably don’t have the same definition for ‘warm’ as you do!

Bring a hat, scarf and gloves just in case, it’s better to be over prepared than not being able to feel your fingers. You may also want to pack a sleep mask for the midnight sun. Especially if you’re camping in a tent!

Top Iceland Highlights In Summer

WHALE WATCHING – Animal lovers flock to Iceland during summer months to witness more than 20 different species of whales including humpbacks and orcas. Akureyri and Reykjavik are good places to go whale watching.

PUFFIN SPOTTING – Summer in Iceland is the best time of year to see some of the 8 million Puffin birds which nest in the sea cliffs. Many settle in Vestmannaeyjar and the Látrabjarg Cliffs in Westfjords from late April until mid-August.

MIDNIGHT SUN – To witness the Midnight Sun, aim to visit Iceland during the summer solstice on June 21st, the longest day of the year. In some parts of the country the sun never actually sets! It simply hits the horizon and starts to rise again.

HIKING & CAMPING – Some of Iceland’s best hiking is located in the highlands, the center part of the country. To access these remote areas, you need to drive on Iceland’s “F-Roads” which are only open from June to late September.

ROAD TRIPS – There’s nothing like a good road trip driving past geothermal areas, roaring waterfalls, or massive glaciers on Iceland’s Ring Road or the Golden Circle. Summer months provide the best driving conditions for these routes.

Fun Summer Festivals In Iceland

Iceland National Day

Secret Solstice Festival

International Viking Festival

Iceland in the Fall (My Favorite Time to Visit!)

Visiting Iceland In The Autumn: September – October (Shoulder Season)

The autumn season in Iceland begins in September and stays until late October, with colder weather creeping in more and more each day. You’ll find that accommodation and flight prices start to decline as the daylight hours get shorter too.

If you’re hoping to catch the first snowfall of the year, October is your best bet. If you’re really lucky, you might even spot the Northern Lights in late autumn too. The wind can start to get stronger, making it feel colder than it really is.

Iceland is covered in stunning autumn colors of oranges and reds, plus the rain brings a distinctive smell to the air. You’ll also spot migratory birds as they prepare to move elsewhere for the winter months.

Fall Weather Conditions By Month

SEPTEMBER Average Rain: 110mm Average Low: 5ºC/41ºF Average High: 10ºC/50ºF

OCTOBER Average Rain: 155mm Average Low: 2ºC/36ºF Average High: 7ºC/45ºF

Pro’s Of Visiting In Autumn

Attractions & hotels are often cheaper

Less tourists, overcrowding

Northern lights being to appear

Con’s Of Visiting In Autumn

Less daylight hours to explore

The weather gets colder

Packing For Iceland In The Autumn

Strong winds and rain is more frequent in the autumn, so be prepared for all weather conditions. From September to October, windproof and waterproof clothes are essential and wearing layers will help you stay on top of the ever-changing temperatures.

Freak snowstorms can also happen too, so wear comfortable footwear, pack a windproof & waterproof jacket, warm extra layers, and bring a winter hat and gloves just in case.

Top Iceland Highlights In The Autumn

FORAGING – This is the best time to go mushroom or berry-picking in the Icelandic countryside. During the autumn months, you can find and pick wild blueberries, strawberries, redcurrants and crowberries in Iceland.

EXPLORE F-ROADS – September is the last month you can still drive Iceland’s rugged & remote F-Roads that lead to the interior central highlands. Once the winter snows start in October (sometimes late September) they are no longer maintained, and only highly-modified super jeeps can attempt them.

GLACIER HIKING – Once you are kitted out by a tour company with crampons, a harness, ice ax, and a helmet — you can begin your glacier hiking adventure! Solheimajokull Glacier is one of Iceland’s most famous glaciers to hike, only about 2-hours from Reykjavik.

NATURAL HOT SPRINGS – Icelanders love to swim outside in all seasons, and fall is a great time to experience some of the many natural hot springs that dot the Icelandic landscape.

Fun Fall Festivals In Iceland

Reykjavik International Film Festival

Iceland Airwaves

Halloween

Visiting Iceland in the Winter

Visiting Iceland In The Winter: November – March (Low Season)

Even with the cold & snow, there are many advantages of traveling in Iceland during the winter. With fewer tourists visiting between October and April, you’ll find many hotels for a fraction of the high season cost.

If you’re visiting Iceland on a budget, winter is also the best time of year to find cheap flights, car rentals and tours. Although camping is a bit more complicated.

One of the downsides of visiting Iceland in the winter are icy driving conditions. The main roads are usually plowed quickly though.

There’s much less daylight too, only 4 – 6 hours depending on the month, with only 3 hours of sunlight during the winter solstice (around December 21st). Which can be great if you’re hunting Northern Lights though!

Winter Weather Conditions By Month

NOVEMBER Average Rain: 110mm Average Low: -1.5ºC/29ºF Average High: 3.5ºC/38ºF

DECEMBER Average Rain: 119mm Average Low: -3ºC/27ºF Average High: 2ºC/35ºF

JANUARY Average Rain: 129mm Average Low: -3ºC/27ºF Average High: 2ºC/35ºF

FEBRUARY Average Rain: 106mm Average Low: -2ºC/28ºF Average High: 3ºC/37ºF

MARCH Average Rain: 116mm Average Low: -2ºC/28ºF Average High: 3ºC/38ºF

Pro’s Of Visiting In Winter

Save money on hotels, flights, and rental cars

Fewer crowds, less tourists

Best time for the northern lights

Cons’s Of Visiting In Winter

Slippery winter driving conditions

Many attractions are closed

Less daylight hours to explore

Packing For Iceland In The Winter

We’ve all heard the saying “there’s no such thing as bad weather, just bad clothing”. Keep this in mind when packing for Iceland in winter. Although the temperature might not be as cold as you expect, the winter winds can make it feel a lot colder, so you’ll definitely need to dress warmly.

Iceland is famous for its thick handknitted wool sweaters – so pick one up if you plan to be out in the elements. On top of this, you should pack waterproof gloves, thermal socks, winter boots and the warmest hat you can find (furry ear-flaps are a plus!)

Everything in your suitcase should either be thermal, waterproof or windproof when traveling through Iceland in the winter.

Visit the Blue Lagoon in Winter!

Top Iceland Highlights In The Winter

Due to winter weather conditions and fewer visitors, you may find that some of Iceland’s attractions are closed during this time of year, but there are still plenty of things to do.

NORTHERN LIGHTS – Winter is the best time to see the northern lights in Iceland. While they’re visible for 8 months of the year, the shorter days of winter give you the best opportunities to witness this natural phenomenon.

CRYSTAL ICE CAVES – Iceland’s blue glacier ice caves can only be explored during the winter months, starting in November, when they become safe to enter. During the spring and summer many of these magical caves often collapse (when you don’t want to be inside!)

EPIC PHOTOGRAPHY – Even though it’s the darkest time of year, the sun doesn’t go down without a fight. Winter sunrises and sunsets can last for hours, featuring a beautiful golden glow over the country’s dramatic landscapes. Accentuated colors over the mountains provide the perfect backdrop for landscape photographers.

THE BLUE LAGOON – Winter is the perfect time to visit Iceland’s most famous attraction, The Blue Lagoon, located about 30 minutes away from Keflavik Airport. Along with fewer crowds, the steam rising from the warm mineral waters during the winter is very cool!

SUPER JEEP TOURS – Iceland has massive 4X4 vehicles called “super jeeps” with lifted suspensions and oversized tires to travel over deep snow and across glacier rivers. The only way to visit the remote central highlands during the winter is by traveling in one!

Purple Lupine Flowers in Vik

Visiting Iceland In The Spring: April – June (Shoulder Season)

The spring season is short and sweet, arriving later than many people think. While your chances of catching the Northern Lights starts to diminish in early April, you’ll be arriving just in time to witness the blooming of some of Iceland’s most beautiful flowers.

The most famous of which is the violet Lupin flowers, which come to light in late May and spread across the Icelandic landscape, creating the perfect backdrop for the many travel photographers who visit every year.

This is also the best time to visit some of Iceland’s many waterfalls, as the melting snow and ice create new streams of water through the rocky landscapes.

Spring Weather Conditions By Month

APRIL Average Rain: 70mm Average Low: 0.5ºC/33ºF Average High: 5.5ºC/42ºF

MAY Average Rain: 63mm Average Low: 3.5ºC/39ºF Average High: 9.5ºC/49ºF

JUNE Average Rain: 36mm Average Low: 7ºC/44ºF Average High: 12ºC/53ºF

Pros Of Visiting In Spring

Affordable accommodation and rental cars

Daylight hours increase after the winter months

Wildflower season begins

Cons Of Visiting In Spring

Winter weather may not be over yet

Long days of sunlight mean no northern lights

Packing For Iceland In The Spring

Similar to the autumn months, you can expect to find all 4 seasons in one day during the spring, so you need to be prepared for whatever the weather throws at you.

Comfortable footwear and warm clothes are a must, and they should also be windproof and waterproof. No matter what time of the year, I always recommend packing layers for Iceland.

The Famous Iceberg Lagoon!

Top Iceland Highlights In The Spring

As the winter weather dies down and the evenings become brighter, many of Iceland’s most popular attractions reopen for spring and summer.

If you are a nature lover, this is also a fantastic time of year to visit as Iceland’s landscapes come into full bloom with wildflowers!

JOKULSARLON GLACIER LAGOON – The massive glacier at the top of this cold lake begins to melt as the temperature increases, resulting in huge icebergs breaking off into the water. Spring is the best time to see all the fresh icebergs floating out to sea.

PURPLE LUPINE FLOWERS – Nootka Lupine, also known as Alaskan Lupine, is an invasive species of purple wildflower that has taken over Iceland. Fields of purple lupine make for some amazing photos when they bloom in mid-June.

PUFFIN SPOTTING – Summer in Iceland is the best time of year to see some of the 8 million Puffin birds which nest in the sea cliffs. Many settle in Vestmannaeyjar and the Látrabjarg Cliffs in Westfjords from late April until mid-August.

SNORKELING BETWEEN CONTINENTS – Snorkeling this water-filled crack called Silfra between the North American and Eurasian continental plates during spring is a great time to avoid the larger summer crowds.

Fun Spring Festivals In Iceland

First Day Of Summer Festival

Reykjavik Art Festival

Festival Of The Sea

Enjoy Your Trip To Iceland In Any Season!

Well, I hope this guide to Iceland’s weather and seasons will help you better plan your trip to the land of fire and ice. However, I really think that no matter when you decide to visit Iceland, you’ll have an amazing experience! ★

Packing Guide

Check out my travel gear guide to help you start packing for your trip. Pick up a travel backpack, camera gear, and other useful travel accessories.

Book Your Flight

Find cheap flights on Skyscanner. This is my favorite search engine to find deals on airlines. Also make sure to read how I find the cheapest flights.

Rent A Car

Discover Car Hire is a great site for comparing car prices to find the best deal. They search both local & international rental companies. Also read my tips for driving in Iceland.

Book Accommodation

Booking.com is my favorite hotel search engine. Or rent apartments from locals on Airbnb. Read more about how I book cheap hotels online.

Protect Your Trip

Don’t forget travel insurance! I’m a big fan of World Nomads for short-term trips. Protect yourself from possible injury & theft abroad. Read more about why you should always carry travel insurance.

Recommended Guidebook: Lonely Planet Iceland Suggested Reading: The Little Book Of Hidden People

Enjoy This Post? Pin It!

READ MORE FROM ICELAND

Where To Stay In Iceland Rental Car Driving Tips For Iceland How To Self-Drive The Ring Road 25 Strange Facts About Iceland!

Are you planning a trip to Iceland? Do you have any questions about when to visit? Drop me a message in the comments below!

This is a post from The Expert Vagabond adventure blog.

[marfahozai-blog]

Excellent Vacations and Tours Near Reykjavik Are Available

All through the year you can enjoy excellent vacations when you procure your Iceland escorted tours packages from us at gotojoyiceland.is.

 At gotojoyiceland.is we have been known to offer superb and enjoyable Iceland go tours to numerous tourists and they always come back to us without hesitation. In order to ensure that you have a fantastic trip when you go to joy Iceland without any hassles we ensure that all of our multi-day joy Iceland vacations include superb accommodation.

 Our multiday gotojoyiceland tours always include accommodation because we know that this is always a major issue for most tourists. No one would want to travel all the way on our Iceland escorted tours packages and not have a conducive and luxurious place to rest and relax. This is why at gotojoyiceland.is we ensure that our clients get only the best accommodation.

 When you book for your tours near Reykjavik with us you can choose to visit the world-famous Golden Circle. Perhaps you might choose to hunt the Aurora Borealis from a super jeep, or simply join others in a small group minibus tours from Reykjavik. The choice is really up to you to determine what it is that you want to achieve on your Iceland go tours.

 At gotojoyiceland.is we provide some of the most popular vacation packages to go to joy Iceland that you can ever find. All of Iceland’s best highlights can be explored up close including the glorious Ring Road, Lake Myvatn, Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon, and Snaefellsnes Peninsula. Hotels are included in all of our best-selling joy Iceland multi-day tours from Reykjavik.

 When you subscribe for our gotojoyiceland vacation packages you would be taken to the unforgettable Northern Lights, the turquoise Blue Lagoon, glistening ice caves, and steaming hot springs.

 Depending on the size and number of persons on your entourage at gotojoyiceland.is we can offer our Iceland escorted tours packages to you at great rates and discounts. We can even have some of our most popular activities and tours bundled together with varying durations. If you want there would not be any accommodation included if you have already made arrangements for these as part of your own tours near Reykjavik. As can be expected when you book our Iceland go tours bundle you can expect to be given some discounts for multiple orders or based on the size of your entourage. These discounts and special offers are on selected tours and are applicable as seasonal offers.

 When you want to take a go to joy Iceland vacation package from us at gotojoyiceland.is, you should also remember that there could be accommodation included in other multi-day packages. Even though most packages with a stopover are like our self-drive packages which start and end at the KEF airport, it is really up to you to decide on what type of vacation you have in mind. Just be rest assured that it is according to your wishes is how the private tours would be tailor-made.

 At gotojoyiceland.is our focus remains to see you enjoy your excellent vacations to Iceland with us.

[shrus3758]

Complementary Activities for Northern Lights Trips to Iceland

Since time immemorial, the phenomenon referred to as the Aurora Borealis, as well as Northern Lights, has grabbed the imagination of holidaymakers the world over. 

I was searching for Iceland Northern Lights Tour and came across this unique website. It truly would have been a wonderful experience to see it for anyone who is also checking out for the same style of travels. Pay a visit to the website for more information.

As mysterious as well as ethereal as it is beautiful, the actual natural light show synonymous using the polar regions of Europe offers long driven travelers and also wanderers to that part of the region, in the hopes of witnessing one of these simple breath-taking displays.

But wherever once upon a time this was a daunting practice - involving weeks associated with planning and as much because several months' travel - advancements in the tourism business throughout the late 20th along with early 21st centuries possess helped ensure that Northern Lights trips are now not only inside everyone's reach but also include a number of other activities and side-trips to engage in, in order to include variety to a polar vacation.

Below are just a few suggestions regarding parallel or complementary places to see when taking North Lights trips to Iceland or Sweden.

Around Reykjavik

One of the most popular destinations to look hunting for the Aurora Borealis in Iceland. Devoid of benefit profile of its Scandinavian neighbors as far as tourism is involved, this country has made the possibility of witness to these mysterious lights the main tourism selling point: and it worked. 

Nowadays, a large number of tourists from all over the world head here on Northern Lights excursions, hoping to feast their eye on the grandest and most popular natural light show on Earth.

Throughout that mission, however, plenty of the tourists end up discovering Iceland - and the capital, Reykjavik, in particular - have more to provide than just lights in the sky. 

Holidaymakers staying in the Icelandic funds will have access to a number of other scenery to beautifully complement their own trip's main attraction.

Samples of these include the 244ft higher Hallgrimskirkja Tower - the particular tallest in Iceland along with a prime spot from which in order to witness the Aurora Borealis. You'll be able to enjoy a stunning intelligence over Reykjavik through the top.

There are also several museums well worth visiting. These include typically the history-centric National Museum; often the 871 +/- 2 Art gallery (where visitors may get a great feel for the country's millennial history); the Maritime Public; and the Northern Lights center, which is dedicated in its whole to the fascinating phenomenon.

The actual National Gallery may attention art buffs, with its assortment of 19th and 20th-millennium paintings.

Aside from cultural points of interest, anyone looking to relax and revel in something very different in character (and extremely enjoyable) may head towards any of the city's outdoor thermal pools rapid including the famous Blue Lagoon. 

I have been looking for Norway Northern Lights Tour and then I ran into superb web site TheVillaEscape which offers everyone the luxury trips with wonderful places. Have a look at their internet page, if you want the same.

Other things to do in Iceland include whale-watching tours, Extremely Jeep tours to explore the spectacular volcanic landscape, horse riding activities and so much more.

Those who come to Iceland on the hunt for the Inicio Borealis will not be disappointed through spending some time in and around Reykjavik upon Northern Lights trips. The particular Icelandic capital offers a wide selection of sights and attractions to maintain anyone entertained.

[simonestudyabroad]

2/1/2017

Last night we saw the Northern Lights!

We got ready for bed and got under the covers when Isabel looked out the window and saw the sky glowing in the distance. We threw our clothes back on and went outside. It was still pretty cloudy but you could see it was brighter off in the distance. We stayed out for awhile and the sky cleared up some more. At times we saw them clearer than others and to the naked eye they were more of a whitish color. When we took pictures of them, they were bright green. We stayed out until they started fading away.

Today we were scheduled to go ice caving at 9:30am. We drove to Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon – the departure spot – and parked our car. Isabel found our tour guide and we were soon on a super jeep – a jeep that had enormous wheels that could get you anywhere. The drive to the glacier was an intense, bumpy and jerky ride. The door kept opening itself every time we went over a particularly bad pothole. We were also informed that because of the amount of rain the area had received, we would most likely not be able to go into the caves. This was disappointing. We arrived and were given helmets and spikes to put over our shoes to make walking on the glacier easier. We headed out, our group only had about ten people. We walked up to this low black cave that had water gushing out of it and the tour guide found a small path and led us into the cave. We crouched down and entered. It was dark and wet and we couldn’t see much. We only walked in a few feet and then turned around and left. We then kept going and he showed us the entrance to the cave we would have been hiking through. The cave was a brilliant blue but also filled with water. We walked up a ways and were led into a crater that had been formed from all the rain. We got to see a bit of the blue colored ice we would have seen in the cave and explore a bit. The guide explained that the glacier was shrinking fast, a meter each year. We started walking back and Isabel fell into some deep snow. It was great. He then had us compete in a rock throwing contest, telling us whoever could hit his target would get a free t-shirt. No one succeeded, including him. We got back into the super jeep and soon arrived back at the glacier lagoon.

We ate lunch at a nearby restaurant, our first real meal in days and then headed back to the lagoon to fully explore the place. The water’s color was surreal and the glaciers looked beautiful. It was such a remarkable place. Iceland does not disappoint and pictures don't do it justice. We then went across the street to Diamond Beach where some of the ice chunks from the glacier have floated into the ocean and back onto the beach, resulting in an extraordinary beach. We sat on some of the chunks and walked through them. We then went to the other side of the lagoon and flew the drone. The drone got some amazing shots and for some reason, the footage was lost again. We are unsure why the GoPro keeps doing this but are going to try again tomorrow. We headed to Fjallsarlon Lagoon down the road and saw another small lake filled with ice chunks. The backdrop was exceptional with the mountains in the background but you couldn’t get as close to the lagoon as you could with the other one. We left and wanted to go to the other side of the Diamond Beach but it started raining and showed no signs of letting up. We returned home to eat dinner and to figure out what tomorrow has in store for us.

[our21stcenturyodyssey]

Our Icelandic Saga - pt 3

All I can say to begin describing the rest of our trip is "Wow." And that's not an homage to the mediocre budget airline we flew to/from Reykjavik. 

When I last left off, we were waiting for our tour guide to come back for us after leaving us to go find a mechanic for our broken bus. 

Thankfully, he came back for us with news that we were going to be transferred to a different bus, but that we would need to drive about 40 minutes back to the main road to get to where the bus would meet us. It was snowing pretty hard by this point, and knowing we were going to be riding in bad conditions in a bus with questionable reliability and no heat to get to our new bus was a little nerve-racking. 

Once we changed buses, even though we were all pretty tired and I'm sure our guide was rattled from the mishap, he ambitiously drove us to Seljalandsfoss, another waterfall that is artificially lit at night. It was nice being there without the crowds, even if it was cold, wet and dark. Plus, being there at night was a unique experience that not most tourists have.

We got to our hotel under Katla Volcano in just enough time to partake in the dinner buffet (at the convenience store we bought a hot dog and a rubber duck for good luck, and we were definitely hungry). The buffet was mediocre, but the variety was good. For dessert I got a bowl of Icelandic skyr, which is a yogurt-like milk curd substance, topped with homemade caramel sauce. It was interesting- a little bitter, but not bad. 

Over dinner we chatted with a couple from our group- two women, Virginie from Paris and Kate from Perth. It was nice after the rough day to get to know some folks in our group. Unfortunately, however, (for the family of 4 anyway) it was becoming apparent that our group as a whole was very frustrated with their behavior on the trip so far. So it wasn't just me and Tim being grumpy. 

After dinner we got straight to bed. The weather was too overcast to try to look for northern lights and we were tired anyway. 

The next morning we were up at 8 for breakfast and then heading back out on the road. Our first stop was to the viewing point of a lava field we would be driving through- Eldhraun, which formed from one of the greatest eruptions of all time and created this field spanning 565 km2.

Snow-covered lava rocks

Since we were outside the normal tourist path at this point, there were no crowds, so we had the small path to ourselves to observe the lava rocks. They looked like black and dark red bubbles, with green and orange moss and a light dusting of snow blanketing the landscape. 

Back on the road, with the sun beginning to show itself for the first time since we'd arrived in Iceland, the views of the surrounding mountains were increasingly beautiful. Rob told us about an interesting process that takes place when there is a volcano beneath a glacier. Basically, when the volcano erupts and emits hot lava, it immediately cools when it touches the freezing glacial ice, while simultaneously melting it. Over time, this creates lava pockets inside the glacier that fill up with the melted water. Once enough water and pressure builds up, it erupts from the glacier and the momentum can shift the glacier's position. The term for this in Icelandic is translated to "leaping glacier". 

We drove by a few such volcanos, and countless beautiful glaciers. I'd never seen so many in such a small space, not even in Antarctica. Rob told us that scientists estimate there will be no glaciers remaining on Iceland within 200 years. It made me think of what Glacier National Park in Montana must have looked like long ago. All the glaciers in Glacier National Park will have melted by 2030, scientists expect. To witness something so large and seemingly permanent near the relative end of its life makes me feel both grateful as well as immensely sad. 

A collapsed road as a result of an earthquake/eruption

Interspersed along the way were farms, and we were also able to see some of the famous Icelandic horses. While smaller than horses from other parts of the world, they are fully horses and not ponies. Apparently calling them such is a bit offensive, even though they were bred from ponies in the 9th and 10th centuries and specifically developed over centuries into what they are now.

On the road

Eventually we reached our destination, Jokulsarlon glacial lagoon, famed for the large icebergs that break of the glacier behind it and float in the waters. This is where the ice caving guides would meet us. 

We were told we didn't have time to take pictures here before our ice caving tour but that we would afterwards when we returned. Everyone got into the rugged jeeps that would take us to the caves. Everyone except for the two adult sisters in the chronically late family. 

We waited 15 minutes before the guides finally had to go look for them. Even though we had been told explicitly not to, they had gone to the lakeshore to take photos, delaying the rest of the group and robbing everyone of precious daylight. Everyone was so angry, and when the women got on board the jeep after a nearly 30 minute delay, Tim finally said something to them. 

He was stern but nice, and asked them to please be on time from here on out since it was really rude and selfish to rob the group of time. We didn't talk with them much the rest of the trip (though there was an interesting and awkward bus-wide conversation the next day that I'll get into later), and they were on time at every stop after. 

The drive to the ice caves was exciting- we rode over rugged moraine, jostling all over the place up and down steep hills. After about a half hour, we arrived at the foot of a glacier surrounded by several patches of ice that, we later saw for ourselves, held mysterious ice caves. 

Glimpse of the sky from within an ice cave

With helmets on top and crampons on bottom we walked toward our first stop- an arch of ice that was strikingly similar to the arches of Arches National Park in Utah. Our guide explained that this arch used to be an ice cave but had melted and eroded down to only an arch. Even so, the ice was so thick and blue, yet still perfectly transparent. 

The arch of a former ice cave.

Our next stop was to go inside an actual ice cave. It was fairly shallow (maybe 100 meters), but still deep enough to walk in and be fully surrounded by blue ice. Tim and I sat down on the ground with the low ceiling glistening above us and leaned against the icy wall, just taking in the moment of being in such a place. 

Our guides then took us to a deeper cave, but we unfortunately couldn't go in due to flooding. The water level in this particular cave varies greatly day to day. Sometimes it's dry, sometimes it fills the whole trench, and sometimes, like the day we visited, it's shallow enough to peek inside but too deep to enter. 

Inside an ice cave

After this last cave we got back on the jeep to bounce our way back to Jokulsarlon. Even though it was dusk by the time we got there, we were able to see well enough. Tim and I took some photos and as we stood there we got to witness something pretty incredible. 

Outside of the flooded cave.

One of the larger icebergs broke into two, cracking apart. As it did so, one piece lifted up while the other drifted forward and then, with a boom the raised piece crashed back onto the water, creating waves that caused all the neighboring icebergs to bobb. It was a beautiful moment to see and hear. 

At Jokulsarlon

After a few more minutes here our guide suggested we go across the Ring Road to the coast, where you can see chunks of ice on the black sand. This is the same ice from the lagoon. As they float down the river leading to the ocean, some pieces of ice break off and get left behind on the shore. 

It was dark when we got there, but what little bit of light we had was enough to see their shapes glistening. Rob showed us a neat trick- with just a small light, like a headlamp, placed in the right spot under a piece of ice, you can illuminate the entire thing due to the way the light gets reflected into itself. The effect is like creating a glowing crystal lamp. 

Tim is such a model

Illuminated ice! 

After this we headed to our hotel not too far away. We had some downtime to rest and wash up before dinner. I was tired, so I laid on the bed by the window to watch for northern lights (the forecast for this evening was favorable) and rest. I ended up napping right until dinner time. 

Rather than a buffet thus evening, we had a plated dinner of lobster bisque, lamb carpaccio and a main of lamb shank. After dinner Rob showed us a dark spot behind the hotel where we could watch for northern lights. Gradually, we were able to see a very faint green band hovering on the northern horizon. It was very faint, but still detectable! I tired to capture some pictures, but the best I could get was a small green blur among an otherwise black frame. While I was excited to officially see the northern lights, I had been hoping for something a little bit...more. I was undoubtedly seeing the northern lights, but this faint blur fell short of what most people have in mind when they say they want to see them. Perhaps these are selfish thoughts, but even though I could mentally tick of the check box next to this bucket list item, it didn't really feel like this one "counted". 

Tim and I headed back inside the hotel to warm up but continued to check outside to see if anything more would come of it. 

At the end of our hallway, we heard the chronically late family telling our guide they needed to be back in Reykjavik by 8pm the next night to make a dinner reservation. Ok, hold up- our itinerary said we'd be going on a more formal hunt for northern lights on the last day of the trip before returning to Reykjavik, and the forecast for the night was very promising- a 5 out of 9 on the scale of activity (activity is between 0 and 4 90% of the time) with perfectly clear skies. After running the whole group late all trip and missing the opportunity to see some sights in daylight, they then wanted the whole group to return early on the last day?! Tim and I approached and asked Rob about the plan for viewing the northern lights the next night. 

He replied that he thought that portion of the tour was cancelled (!!) due to it being New Year's Eve. Yet, this is not the information the tour company gave us when we booked. He said he would check with his boss the next day to confirm the plan, but that he would still have to get the family to Reykjavik by 8 (way too early to actually have a good shot at seeing the lights). Obviously this had me feeling a bit anxious and sad- would I really be in Iceland on a night with an amazing aurora forecast, yet be fated to miss it because of a mix of one rude family's dinner reservation and our tour company's poor communication?

Not wanting to rely completely on Rob, I also emailed the company, since it didn't seem like consistent messages were being delivered (everyone else on our tour had been told we'd be doing a northern lights tour the last night, too). 

Back in our room, I'd be lying if I said I wasn't in a slightly depressed mood. While we were seeing and doing some cool things, our trip wasn't shaking out the way I wanted and expected it to (lesson learned there about the power of expectations...). The weather hadn't been good, we had one tour canceled and one never show up, nearly blew off a cliff into Gullfoss, spent hours at a convenience store waiting on a broke down bus, missed seeing things because of the rude family, and didn't get to go into the main ice cave because it was flooded. Now, with one day left, my chances of having an opportunity to see the northern lights were diminishing. And in case you haven't caught on, seeing the aurora was what I wanted most out of this trip and was why we planned it for winter to begin with. And I felt bad for dragging Tim across the Atlantic up to the near arctic in the dead of winter, only to be disappointed. 

As I write this, I worry I sound entitled, or spoiled, and maybe there's a little bit of that at play here. But frankly I felt like a kid whose ice-cream scoop had fallen off the cone.  

Of course, Tim, in his ever-positive way, empathized with me, but wasn't personally bothered at all. He assured me he was perfectly happy with our trip and time together regardless of what happens. He's sweet like that. 

The next day was off to a good start. I'd adjusted my attitude and addressed my feeling of being unable to control the situation by finding something I could control. I looked into options for how we could get ourselves away from the city lights to have a shot at seeing the aurora- rental car, taxi, private guide? It gave me reassurance that if we needed to we could take matters into our own hands.

The first activity on deck for the day was glacier hiking, and I was very excited! We met up with a second guide, Ash, to get sized for crampons and helmets, and we also got ice axes. It all felt very badass. 

Ready to hike! 

We were hiking in Svinafellsjokull, and it was even more gorgeous than I imagined a glacier hike to be. The sun was out, casting beautiful light across the glacier and surrounding mountains. We saw other groups hiking the glacier in the distance, giving me a true sense of the scale of this place. We hiked about 3 miles in total on very easy and safe parts of the glacier, and we had a lot of fun. Tim used his axe to chip off chucks of glacial ice to eat (yum!!), we leapt over small crevices, and learned about the ice. Crunching around in our crampons with the group with the sun shining strong, Tim and I loved our glacial playtime. Of all the activities and sights up to this point, being on this stunning blue glacier was my favorite. 

Hikers on the glacier

I loved spending the afternoon in this breathtaking place!! 

After our hike Rob have the group an update on plans for that night. He said he would be happy to take the group out later to some dark places outside the city, getting back to Reykjavik around 10pm, but that he also knew the family wanted to be back earlier. The oldest daughter in the family spoke up and said that the company had promised them they could be back in town by 8, while Tim and I pointed out that the company had also promised everyone else a northern lights that evening. She went on a rant about how Tim shouldn't be bullying her family and that they refused to be held captive on the bus just because Tim and I wanted to see the lights. Now, it's worth noting that outside of me and Tim and the faculty of 4,there were 12 other guests on the bus. Tim told her that it wasn't just us, but others in the group too. When asked for a show of hands, everyone on the bus except for that family indicated they wanted to stay out and try to see the aurora. Finally a compromise was reached- we'd go into the city to drop them off (good riddance) and then Rob would take the rest of the group back out, and we'd all be back in Reykjavik in time to celebrate new years. Yay! (Although Tim and I maintain that the tour company should have never put their guests or their employee in this kind of position, we were really happy with this outcome).

Before heading back into town, though, we still had a few more stops to make. Since we missed a few things the first day, Rob was going to take us to them on our way back into town. The first stop was the Black Sand beach near the city of Vik. This place is awesome- the black sand is a result of the surrounding volcanos, and the beach is very large and there are unique rock pillars standing just offshore in the waves. It reminded me of the southern coast of Australia near Melbourne (minus the black sand, of course!). Other really cool aspects of this spot- a wall of basalt columns and several small caves. I would have loved to spend a day exploring all the nooks and crannies!!

Tim at the black sand beach

Sunset over the beach

Before we left the beach, the sun began to set and this sunset followed us for over an hour as we continued our drive west. It was truly beautiful (and I'm not typically a sunrise/sunset enthusiast).

We did make one last stop before dropping off the family in the city, to see a last famous waterfall. Unfortunately it was so dark we couldn't see anything and this waterfall wasn't illuminated. But part of me wonders if Rob, annoyed by having to do extra driving to accommodate them, was intentionally not in a hurry to get the grumpy family back into the city for their dinner reservation. 

From there we headed back into Reykjavik, dropped off the family and then headed back to a darker area to hopefully observe the northern lights. 

Our experience could not have been more perfect. We pulled into a parking area off a back road, with only one other small group in the area. As soon as we got there a green hazy steak began to form directly over our heads across the sky from one end of the horizon to the other. Over the course of a few moments the green color intensified, and a stair step pattern emerged. 

While Tim had seen the northern lights once previously a few years ago, this was a first for me. After the week we'd had with all the weather and tour issues and being worried we wouldn't have the opportunity to come out and find the lights this evening, I was exuberant over our good luck. I started crying. Tim hugged me. "I'm so happy for you that you're getting to see this!"

Northern lights

Before long a pink hue emerged in the central part of the line and the strands began to dance and intermingle. It was unlike anything I've ever seen before and something that my words and even the best photos I've seen don't capture. Even Rob said this was one of the best auroras he'd seen. 

Our whole group was so ecstatic and you could feel the joy everyone had to have this dream come true. I was so happy for me and Tim but also all the others in our group who had traveled to Iceland in the dead of winter from places like Australia and China in hopes of getting to see this. I'm actually tearing up again remembering the experience. 

Our "show" lasted about a half hour in total before dissipating, though I think based on the number and variety of northern lights photos tagged on Instagram the next morning that it was a very active night overall! As for our group, Rob had already stayed out later than he had been planning to with us and we all agreed that Reykjavik's famous new year's celebration was something we wanted to experience. So we headed back into the city. 

Tim and I were at our hotel (we redeemed Hilton points for the night to stay at the Hilton Canopy) by 10pm, giving us plenty of time to settle in before midnight. Our hotel was one of the best we've ever stayed in. For a chain, the place was overflowing with style and local flare- our room even had a troll on one of the shelves, and a claw foot bathtub. We also had a private balcony which was perfect for watching some of the random fireworks going off. 

Tim and I didn't even bother to shower or dress up- to make the most of our time we ventured out for the festivities in the same clothes we'd hiked in earlier. It was definitely the most "au naturel" I've been for a new years night out, but I didn't care. Reykjavik is very chill and unpretentious, and there's no shame in looking like you just came back from an epic outdoor adventure.  

You could feel the energy of the city as soon as we started our walk. There were people of all ages on the streets, laughing and talking and eating and drinking. Knowing we didn't have time to go to a sit-down restaurant, and craving one of those famous hotdogs anyway, we got in line at a small convenience store and had a very satisfying hot dog, dorito and soda dinner. We ran into two of our friends from the tour there as well- guess we weren't the only ones with that idea! 

Tim and I finished our meal outside on the sidewalk and headed towards the Hallgrimskirkja, where many folks were gathered to watch the fireworks. Every few blocks or so someone would be setting off fireworks on side streets. Unlike in the states, there is no official fireworks show for celebrations. Instead, everyone who wants to buys and sets off their own. 

Even though it was 11:45, we had no issues getting a spot with a fantastic view of the church. Though the area was very crowded, no one was pushing or jostling or fighting. It was the happiest, calmest crowd I've ever been in. And from the time we got there until after we left well past midnight, there was a constant stream of beautiful fireworks. It was one of the coolest experiences of my life.

We stayed out at one of the bars for a little bit, meeting some other travelers and having a few drinks. We were asleep hours before the new year arrived to the US. 

The next morning we checked out of our hotel, enjoyed the decadent complimentary breakfast, and made our way to the airport for our flight back to Baltimore. 

People have asked us how our trip to Iceland was and the words that always come to mind are "wild", "amazing" and "hard-fought". Much about our experience was unexpected, and that seems fitting for this strange little island in the North Atlantic.