The northern lights dancing in Iceland
What are these Northern Lights?
The dancing lights high in the sky appear as bright red, blue, yellow, orange, green, red and blue lights. The colours vary and depend on the ionised elements of the sun, such as hydrogen, helium and carbon dioxide. These lights can be seen with the naked eye, but also with a telescope or camera and can also be seen from a distance of a few kilometres.
This also means that they could fill the sky on high summer days, but not in the summer months. However, if it is a dark and clear night, you can see the aurora despite the lack of solar activity.
Although science could explain what the dancing lights are, there are many theories from different cultures. The ancient norms believed that they could be the splendor of the Valkyrie armor, but science has not yet confirmed this. Indian groups reportedly believed that the auroras represented the spirits of the dead, and the bright auroras were also considered omens. The lights were believed to be fire foxes running around with fire in their tails and sparks flying into the sky.
The lights are believed to be the result of a fire – a fox running around with its tail sending sparks flying into the sky. According to this theory, the brighter the aurora, the happier the deceased were.
During the Christianisation of medieval Europe, people saw it as a warning of darker times. It did not take long, however, for the brutal battle would be won not by the Confederates but by the army of Northern Virginia and the United States of America. Since then, further discoveries have been made, particularly regarding the danger of strong solar winds, but there is still much to learn about the nature of the Northern Lights and their effects on the human body and mind. For more in-depth information and to answer these questions, please read our FAQ about Northern Lights in Iceland. The best conditions for the Northern Lights of Iceland are in the late evening and early morning hours of 31 October and 1 November.
If you are travelling between September and April, you can choose to camp in Iceland or visit one of the many campsites in the Westfjords, such as Keflavik, Vatnajokull, Gjellafjordur and Gullfoss. Although many of these campsites are rural, light pollution is minimal and sleeping under a starry sky significantly increases the chances of seeing the lights. Happiness is always a factor when it comes to nature, especially when hunting for the aurora borealis. However, there is always the possibility that you will not see the Northern Lights at all, or at least not at the same time. Of course it’s up to you to take the chance and see what you see when you take it.
3-4 Day Tour Idea
Details:
Operating: All year
Pick-up time: 9:45 – 9:00am from guesthouses/hotels in Reykjavik
Included: Luxury SUV or super jeep English guided tour of the Golden Circle, Blue Lagoon transfer (tickets are not included to the Blue Lagoon, please prepurchase your tickets here: www.bluelagoon.com)
Guide to traveller ratio: 1:6
Returns: We return to Reykjavik around 17:00
Minimum Age: 6 years old
Difficulty: Easy
Details:
- Operating: All year
- Pick-up time: 8:45 – 9:00 from guesthouses/hotels in Reykjavik
- Included: Luxury SUV or super jeep, English guided tour of the South Coast, 1 hour glacier hike (includes all necessary equipment)
- Guide to traveller ratio: 1:6
- Returns: We return to Reykjavik around 20:00
- Minimum Age: 8 years old
- Difficulty: Moderate
Northern Lights & Stargazing: ISK 21.900

Details:
- 1 September – 15 April
- Pick-up time: from guesthouses/hotels in Reykjavik (1-30 Sept 9pm, 1-15 March 8pm, 16 March-15 April 9pm)
- Included: English guided tour on super jeep to see the Northern Lights with stargazing, use of telescope, hot chocolate and kleina (Icelandic sweet treat), free photograph of you under the Icelandic nights sky
- Guide to travellers ratio: 1:7
- Returns: We return to Reykjavik around 1-2am
- Minimum Age: no age limit
- Difficulty Rating: Easy
About Us
Our Mission
We are the only travel operator in Iceland focusing on travel services for the winter season only. Our mission is to create a nest of innovative & exclusive travel products you can only find at our website.
About Us
Flotferðir ehf
Reykjavik
Kt. 631014-0890
VAT nr. 122908
Support: info [AT] northernlightsiceland.com
Billing: invoices [AT] floatingtours.com
Private Tours
Our private tours are organised around your wants and needs.
If you wish to travel in a small group or just by yourself we can offer you private tours that are sure to meet your expectations.
If none of the above work for your itinerary, please contact our private tour specialists at: Northern Lights Iceland and they’ll be happy to assist.
Top 5 restaurants in Reykjavik - Editor's choice
Top 5 restaurants in Reykjavik
Editor's choice - Our Recommendations
1. Steikhúsið - Tryggvagötu 34 - map
What we love: You’ll find the Steak House busy every day of the week with tourists and locals alike – in fact, we recommend booking in advance to avoid missing out on a delicious steak dinner. We think the Steak House is the perfect place to relax after a busy day of working or exploring Reykjavik, and where better to do it than right next to the harbour?
Click here for homepage/reservations: Steikhúsið
2. Kopar - Geirsgata 3 (Old Harbour) - map
What we love: Kopar also offers a special 9-course Icelandic tasting menu, which is exactly what you think it is! It’s extremely popular with tourists looking to sample a bit of everything – scallops, catfish, lamb, just to name a few. If that’s a bit too adventurous, you can opt for more traditional fish and meat dishes instead. You’ll need to find out what else is on the menu by making a reservation and checking it out for yourself.
Click here for homepage/reservations: Kopar
3. Tapas Barinn - Fishersund - map
What we love:Of course, Tapas Barinn has more to offer than just their tapas menu, so if seven courses sounds like a little too much for you, there’s plenty more to choose from. Tapas Barinn is busy seven days of the week and is a local favourite; so don’t be surprised if the place really gets lively later in the evening. Stick around after your meal and try some of the popular cocktails as you soak up the atmosphere.
Click here for homepage/reservations: Tapas Barinn
4. Mar - Geirsgata 9 (Old Harbour) - map
What we love: Did you know – Mar are whale and dolphin friendly and have signed up to the ethical treatment of these great animals. Isn’t that brilliant? Mar are just around the corner from the whale watching boats, so if you’ve just stepped back on shore, this is the perfect place to eat.
Click here for homepage/reservations: Mar Restaurant
5. Kol - Skólavörðustíg 40 - map
What we love: Not only will you love the food, but the décor is something special too. The design is a mixture of classic Icelandic style with an international twist, but don’t take our word for it – go and see it for yourself! Stick around in this stylish bar after you’ve finished your meal and try a few of their cocktails and you’ll see why they’re so popular.
Click here for homepage/reservations: Kol Restaurant
The Best Time to see the Northern Lights in Iceland
The northern lights are one of the biggest draws to visiting Iceland
The northern lights are one of the biggest draws to visiting Iceland, however they are also one of the most elusive and unpredictable attractions this country has. Although it would be great to easily pinpoint a how to see them, there are a lot of variables to consider for seeing them: season, weather, length of stay, location and luck. Of course, there are lots of fantastic things to do in Iceland and it’s always best to think of seeing the northern lights as an added bonus. So e.g. plan your trip with unique experience like The Aurora Bubble You will come back happy even if you did not see any northern lights dance. Hopefully this article will answer all your questions about the best time to see the northern lights in Iceland!
What Are The Northern Lights?
First, a little bit of background on them. The northern lights are the result of electrically charged particles from the sun colliding with gaseous particles in the Earth’s atmosphere, causing displays of bright, colourful dancing lights. They are visible in the magnetic polar regions of the northern and southern hemispheres (they are known as Aurora australis in the south) and they can range in colour from white, green, pink and purple.
According to the Northern Lights Centre in Canada, scientific studies have found that the northern and southern Auroras often occur at the same time as mirror images. This of course means that the Auroras are often happening, even if they aren’t visible to us down on the ground. In the northern hemisphere, the lights are best seen from Iceland, Greenland, northern Norway, Siberia, the Canadian territories and Alaska. Thanks to the latitude of the North American continent in relation to the magnetic pole, the lights have been seen as far south as New Orleans! This is a rare and remarkable thing, though. Here in Iceland, seeing the northern lights is most certainly annual and regular, although still rather unpredictable.

The Best Time To See The Northern Lights In Iceland
Guaranteed darkness is the first important factor. The best season to see the northern lights in Iceland is from September to mid-April – these are the months where there are full dark nights. Some sources will recommend November to February, as they are the darkest months with the longest possible window to see the lights, however these sources often fail to take into account that these months can have the worst weather with lots of rain and snow. It is also not unheard of to see the lights as early as mid-August, once the final traces of the midnight sun summer are gone.
Second most important factor is the length of time you choose to stay in Iceland. To get the best odds of seeing the lights, it is recommended you stay a minimum of seven nights in the country. The northern lights usually tend to be very active for two to three nights, then low for four to five nights, in ongoing cycles. Naturally, not everyone can take long trips here and Iceland is a renowned stopover destination, but if the northern lights are on your bucket list we highly recommend you make sure you can take a good long trip here. Given that the factors for viewing them have to all be aligned, the longer time you spend in the country, the higher your chances are of seeing them.
Next important factor is the weather. Since Iceland is a small north Atlantic island, it is subject to fierce and rapidly changing weather. The old cliché “if you don’t like the weather, wait five minutes” could not be truer of this country. In order to see the northern lights, the skies need to be very clear. This often coincides with some of our coldest nights, since clear dark weather in Iceland usually means temperatures below freezing. On warmer nights, there is usually precipitation or at least quite a bit of cloud coverage.
Checking the weather forecast regularly in the days leading to your trip to Iceland will give you an idea of your chances for seeing the lights. Services like the Aurora forecast from the Icelandic Meteorological Office and the Aurora Prediction Page are very useful for hedging your bets. Look for the white parts on the forecast map which indicate the clarity of the sky, then compare whether there are low, moderate or high predictions in those regions. It is very important to check the conditions regularly, especially if you’re doing a self-drive.
As the old saying goes, location location location! Once in a while the northern lights will take Reykjavík by surprise and they are so strong that the city lights don’t matter, but most of the time, it’s best to get away from all the street lights and car brights. Taking your visit out of the capital and into the countryside further increases your chances of catching them. There are many great small towns to visit around the country with beautiful country hotels and guesthouses, just steps from pure un-modernized nature where there is no light pollution.
Our favorite countryside hotels are three. The first is The 5 Million Star Hotel, on the Golden Circle, not necessarily because it is on the popular circle, next to Gullfoss waterfall, but more because it gets so insanely pitch dark there. In one of the comments on Tripadvisor a client wrote: “I just walked outside of the hotel, just few meters and it was simply pitch dark. So pitch dark I could not find myself.” To be in a complete darkness is just an interesting experience by itself. The other two excellent options are Hotel Borealis (only a hour drive from Reykjavik – very quite and relaxing).
Some towns out in the countryside to consider (you need to rent a car then and maybe drive on icy roads) are Vík and Höfn in the south, Seyðisfjörður in the east, Dalvik Akureyri and Grímsey in the north, Ísafjörður in the westfjords, and Stykkishólmur in the west.

Guided Tours vs. Self-Driving
One big question many people have is whether to go on guided tours or to self-drive around to find the lights. Both of these options have their pros and cons and some people end up doing a combination of both. Guided tours have the advantage of being led by expert guides and drivers who closely follow the forecasts and have a keen knowledge of the road conditions and terrain. Of course, guided tours can place some constraints for certain travellers and can be subject to change based on unpredictable conditions.
A self-drive can be a really good option, but only if the driver(s) is very familiar with difficult winter roads. Our roads can be icy and snowy as soon as September hits, so it’s very important for drivers to be experienced and comfortable in all weather conditions. It is also very important to follow road regulations and safety precautions given by your rental company and the Icelandic Association for Search and Rescue. Provided you are comfortable with this, building your own driving itinerary to go hunt down the lights can be a very rich and rewarding adventure for your private memories. You will have a lot more freedom to hit the road on a whim if you see that the weather conditions are good near you and take on all the activities and sightseeing you want at your own leisure. Of course, you have to be willing to do a lot more research on your own and be diligent to watch the skies closely.
Hunting the lights, being it a guided tour or a self-drive is great, but recently the whale watching companies in Reykjavik have start offering a northern lights hunt on a boat. The advantages with this is that you don’t need to drive outside of Reykjavik, you can just walk down to the harbor and get on a boat. They will then sail outside of the light pollution. We recommend the northern lights tour from Reykjavik Sailors.
If you plan to spend a considerable length of time here, combining both guided tours and self-driving can be a really excellent option. You can stick to the easier routes on your own as you self-drive and have the same freedom to explore at your pace, but you can also treat yourself to a fun-filled adventure led by an expert guide. There are many tours that go to absolutely stunning locations to hunt for the lights, like the Jökulsárlón glacial lagoon or snowmobiling onto a glacier. Lately sleeping in a view through bubble while seeing the aurora dance for you has become popular. You even listen to Sigur Ros in their underwater speakers! What is great with this type of a tour is that you come back happy and relaxed even if you don’t see the aurora that night. Now that’s really something to Tweet about!
One other important thing to consider when coming to see the lights is bringing the appropriate attire. Remember: it will be winter! The key to dressing warmly in Iceland is lots of layers of natural fibre clothing – long underwear, cotton and wool socks, form fitting shirts and pants, topped off with insulated wind-and-waterproof outerwear. If you plan on spending any amount of time outdoors, this will be crucial for keeping you heated inside and out. And don’t forget a good hat, scarf and pair of mits! If you forget anything though, don’t worry. Reykjavík’s main shopping street Laugavegur has many great stores you can buy locally designed outergear.
Other Things To Do In Iceland
All this being said, it’s really crucial to plan your trip around other activities and sights besides the northern lights. There are so many wonderful things to do in Iceland and with the Auroras being as fickle as they are, it would be a shame to not make the most of a visit here because the lights didn’t turn up. Take in some of the country’s most famous sights on the Golden Circle tour. Easily done by guided tour or self-drive at all times of the year, you’ll see the Gullfoss waterfall, the original and eponymous Geysir, and the continental rift at Þingvellir national park, site of Iceland’s original parliament. Another great and relaxed tour is the South Coast Adventure, comprising the Seljalandsfoss and Skógarfoss waterfalls, the Reynisfjara black sand beach with its basalt column wall, and the magical town of Vík. For a longer drive along the south coast, continue on to see the Jökulsárlón glacial lagoon, where icebergs that break off of the great Vatnajökull glacier float into the sea. One more thing to mention are the helicopter tours in Iceland and surprisingly they dont cost too much. You can do it for similar prices as the guided super jeep tours. We recommend Nordurflug.
There is also a lot to see and do in the capital city of Reykjavík. Make sure to visit the Reykjavík Art Museum, a network of three separate centres housing a vast array of styles and eras of classic and modern art, each one dedicated to a famous Icelandic artist. The National Museum of Iceland displays a fantastic permanent collection that beautifully transports you through the history of the country from the time of settlement until present day. It also holds many temporary exhibits ranging from textile art to archeological reconstructions. You can also indulge yourself with local cuisine, going to any number of marvelous restaurants specializing in our best produce – lamb, lobster and fish.
Then there is of course the city’s famous nightlife and bar scene that is not to be missed on weekends. The city goes from a quiet fishing town to an all-out rager on Friday and Saturday nights, and there are dozens of bars in the downtown area to suit every taste and fancy. Take in a bit of everything and you are sure to have a fabulous stay in this country, northern lights or no northern lights.
This about completes the guide to seeing the northern lights in Iceland. Remember the factors: darkness, a week-long stay, good clear weather, picking your location and planning your itinerary. With all these taken into account, hopefully you will look up and be dazzled by the beautiful dancing lights. And if they don’t show themselves, you will still have had a great adventure in Iceland!



An Amazing Northern Lights Video
Filmed 130 nights over 3 years to create one amazing northern lights video
Iceland Aurora from Iceland Aurora Films on Vimeo.
Three independent film makers from Iceland have been at 50 different locations around Iceland & spend 130 nights last 3 years to create one amazing time lapse northern lights video. It is made out of 100.000 RAW high Res images that combined result in a 30 min long northern lights video. The above video is only the trailer for the video.
It was entirely self-funded northern lights video while the crew was in a full-time employment and the majority of the shots were done in the winter 2013/2014.



Fosshotel Reykholt
Fosshotel ReykholtRomantic country hotel based in the historical place of Reykholt |
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Fosshotel Reykholt is a official 3 star tourist class hotel in a historical place of Reykholt. The place is known for being the home of Saga writer Snorri Sturlusson. You will find beautiful churches, Snorri´s natural hot pool, Snorrastofa, Heimskringla and so much more. A real cultural place. The hotel includes internet lounge, library, bar, restaurant, outdoor hot tubs, wellness center and free parking. The area of Reykholt is known for great northern lights show. You can relax in the hot tubs and wait for the romantic northern lights to start dancing for you.
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Breathtaking show at Hotel Ranga
Breathtaking show at Hotel Ranga |
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This great video shows us how the northern lights can been seen at the four star luxury resort Hotel Ranga in south Iceland. The amazing resort and dining hotel has been known for being the first hotel in Iceland offering a northern lights wake up service. It has become its trademark and of course for being a excellent location to actually see the northern lights.
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Why is Hotel Ranga such a great place to see the northern lightsFor seeing the aurora borealis it is important to have no light pollution in the winter time. Hotel Ranga is located in a rural area in south Iceland. This means there is optimal conditions at the hotel to see the dancing lights at night. There is of course never any guarantee of seeing the northern lights, but if you stay couple of nights we have figured out there is fairly good change of experiencing this lovey phenomenon. Special northern lights wake-up call service at Hotel RangaWhen you arrive at the hotel the staff asks you if you would like to have the special service of receiving a wake-up call if the northern lights appear. The staff is on the lookout for the lights in the evening and into the night. In addition the hotel supplies some helpful, guiding information about the Aurora for those interested in knowing more. Just dont forget warm clothes for your northern lights viewing as the winter nights can be cold in Iceland. |
Finding accommodation in Reykjavík
Finding accommodation in Reykjavík
Volcanic eruptions in Iceland
Volcanic eruption in Iceland
The most recent volcanic eruption in Iceland is clearly in Bárðarbunga (started erupting in 2014). Located on the mid-Atlantic ridge, Iceland has a high concentration of active volcanoes. In Iceland there are 30 active volcanic systems and 13 of them have erupted since the settlement of Iceland. We have put together a list of a few volcanic eruptions in Iceland.
1. The Westman Islands (1973)
One of the most famous volcanic eruption in Iceland is the one in the Westman Islands in 1973. The eruption came without any signs of warnings. Ash fell over most of the island, around 400 homes were destroyed and lava flow threatened the harbour. It is a blessing that no one was killed. This video will give you the story of the eruption.
2. Eyjafjallajökull (2010)
Who doesn´t remember the Eyjafjallajökull eruption? The eruption that everyone was talking about in 2010. Despite of being a relatively small eruption it caused enormous disruption to air travel across northern and western Europe. An ash cloud led to the closure of most the the European airspace in April. In October 2010 the eruption was officially over. Here you can see a good BBC clip about the eruption.
3. Grímsvötn eruption (2011)
Grímsvötn is a volcano in the south eastern part of Iceland, in the highlands. Grímsvötn is a basaltic volcano and has the highest eruption frequency of all the volcanoes in Iceland. Most of the eruptions have been subglacial. The last time Grímsvötn erupted was in May 2011.
4. Hekla
Hekla is a stratovolcano in the south of Iceland. It is a part of a volcanic ridge. It is one of Iceland´s most active volcano and has erupted more than 20 times since 874. The earliest recorded eruption is in 1104. Eruptions in Hekla are extremely varied and difficult to predict but there is a general correlation – the longer Hekla goes dormant, the larger and more powerful its opening eruption will be! Hekla last erupted in 2000. No one knows when the next Hekla eruption will take place.
Whale Watching Andrea
Whale Watching Andrea
- South Iceland
- Duration: 3-3.5 hours
- Difficult level: Easy
Come aboard and join the biggest whale watching boat in Iceland with Whale Watching Andrea Tour. Educational and fantastic inside and outside. With plenty of space for everyone, café and even a souvenir shop on board!
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We will begin our Whale Watching Andrea adventure at the Reykjavik Old Harbour. It can be reached just few minutes from the city center so you won't miss it. Whale Watching Andrea boat offers great comfort, a fantastic interior, large outside viewing decks and a safe family environment.
As the vessel departs Reykjavik Old harbor, one of our highly trained tour guide will give an "educational and interactive" focus about the whales we may see, their behavior and some of the other marine life common to the area. Posters, interactive tools and other materials are used to further illustrate the various whale species, behaviors and interesting facts on the biology and geology of the area. You can get to feel objects such as baleen plates, whale teeth and whale bones. These bring a new level of understanding to many of our first time passengers of how these magnificent animals adapt and survive. The ocean will come to life in front of us as you will learn about each specimens that will be shown from our friendly and knowledgeable tour guides and these experience makes our Whale Watching Andrea tour a one of a kind tour.
The tour guide along with our friendly captain will point out where you will be able to spot the whales that are mentioned.
One of our favorite whales sighted throughout the year is the Mink Whale. Our tour guides conduct researches on the whales seen, photographing each whale to be identified and studied every now and then. Once the research is completed,it is being put into our database and openly shared with other interested scientists, as well as those naturalist including schools and organizations and of course to all of our interested passengers just like yourself. Mink whales are not the only species sighted. Some of the others are Harbor Porporise, White-beaked Dolphin and Humpback Whale. The fun thing is that we may even stop to see a fish or two. The Arctic ocean is a rich environment that attracts and supports both residents and transient marine life.
Unlike many other whale watching tours that are often offered here in Iceland, our trips offers a wide spectrum of educational tools that go beyond the "average whale watch". The tours offered are well designed to enhance our awareness of whales, as well as the other marine life and the marine habitat that surrounds Iceland. Our goal is for you to depart our boats with a greater understanding and appreciation of the Icelandic marine sanctuary and the abundance of life it supports. We make each trip fun and educational for everyone at all ages and excellent for bigger groups and families! So get aboard and let the fun begin. Join our Whale Watching Andrea.
DETAILS
AVAILABILITY:
Daily departures all year
DURATION:
3-3.5 hours
INCLUDES:
New, luxurious and fast whale watching boat WITH 90% VIEWING SUCCESS, free ticket for the next tour if no whales are spotted on the first one, and experienced guides and crew.
PLEASE NOTE:
Please bring warm clothing as the weather in Iceland is unpredictable and it is always colder out in the open sea. You can borrow warm overalls on board if you get cold.
OTHER USEFUL FACTS:
Drinks & Snacks bar on board, Souvenir shop and wireless internet on board.
Adventures on the sea
Adventures on the sea
When you visit Iceland the selection of tours is massive, both on land and sea. Here we are going to introduce you the magic the ocean has to offer and give you an idea for tours available.
Whale watching
The whale watching tours are always popular and it is truly magnificent to see the whales in their natural environment. Usually you can see them quite up close, either the boat approaches them slowly or the whales themselves get close to the boat. The viewing success rater is 90% and dolphins often show up as well.
You can go whale watching on the northern coast during summer but the tours run all year from the Old harbor in Reykjavík. There you can choose between the largest whale watching boat in Iceland, Andrea, or a fast luxurious boat (so-called whale watching express). The types of whales you can expect to see include Mink whale, Gun whale and Humpback whale. Whale watching is an adventure for everyone and in summer you might see puffins as well!
Sea Angling
Sea angling adventures are offered from the beginning of May until the end of August. Each tour is 2.5- 3 hours long and departure is from the Old harbor in Reykjavík in the afternoon. All necessary equipment is on board. After having enjoyed the view of Reykjavik and Mt. Esja and caught fish, and sometimes we spot whales as well on the tour, the tour guides will BBQ the fish you caught. The most common fish caught is cod and halibut. So, on your way back to the harbor you enjoy a lovely meal and view. This is a tour all age groups enjoy and we can easily recommend.
Northern lights by boat
There are several tours offered for northern lights hunting. One option, not too many know about and is a hidden gem, is northern lights hunt by boat. The boat departs from the Old Harbor in Reykjavík and you sail out to Faxaflói bay. There you have a lovely panoramic view of the capital, Reykjavik, but you are also far away from the city lights. That means that you can enjoy the northern lights out in the sea where it is pitch dark but with the city lights as a background. Now, how amazing is that!
Puffins
Puffins
The puffin is truly a unique bird that is fun to watch and explore. On many of the boat tours during summer you also see puffins. You can read more about puffins here. All ages love and enjoy to see this little but lovely and beautiful bird flying around and nesting.
4 day self drive in West Iceland
4 Day Self-Drive in West Iceland
In the western part of Iceland you will find many wonderful and adventurous places. Here is an ideal four day self-drive route. Please note that it is important, especially in winter, to check the forecast and road conditions before you head off!
The 4 Day Itinerary
Day 1 – Deildartunguhver, Reykholt, Hraunfossar
You start the day by picking up your rental car, if you haven´t already. When everything is set, drive out of Reykjavík and head towards the Hvalfjarðargöng tunnel. When you have driven under the deepest fjord in Europe, head towards Borgarnes where you can make a short stop, grab lunch and get some fresh air. Your next stop is Deildartunguhver in Reykholtsdalur, which is the highest-flow hot spring in Europe. In the area you will find many interesting places, such as Reykholt and Hraunfossar waterfalls. From there, drive back to Borgarnes where you will spend the night. We recommend you book accommodation in advance. Borgarnes is a nice town where you will find museums, gardens, restaurants and much more.
Day 2 – Snælfellsnes
After enjoying breakfast, you drive out of Borgarnes and at the roundabouts you choose to road towards Snæfellsnes. The drive is a few hours but the scenery is breathtaking. Your first stop is Arnarstapi, a beautiful natural treasure. Within a walking distance, you will find Hellnar. Take your time to enjoy the scenery and the breathtaking nature. The Snæfellsnesjökull glacier is almost next door to Arnarstapi. The local agencies can inform you about tours, such as snowmobiling, if you are interested. There are several hotels in the area, which might be ideal for a Northern lights hunt in winter, but please ask in advance whether they are open all year round.
Day 3 – Stykkishólmur
After a good night sleep, you now start making your way to the other side of the Snæfellsnes peninsula. Your first stop is Ólafvík where you can enjoy lunch and take a stroll around the village. Your next stop is Stykkishólmur where you will check in at your hotel (please pre-book) and enjoy the rest of the day in this lovely town. You can go sailing, visit museum, visit Flatey island, go swimming or just relax.
Day 4 – Back to Reykjavik
This is the last day of the 4 day self-drive tour. We suggest you start heading back no later than noon so you can make stops on the way back to Reykjavík and enjoy the scenery and the beautiful nature. We want emphasize that it is very important, when travelling in winter, that you check the weather forecast and the conditions of the roads, as you never know what to expect weather-wise in Iceland, especially in winter!
Last minute - Deal of the Day
Last minute - Deal of the Day
The last minute deal of the day (35% OFF) is for the Golden Circle Ultimate with Floating tour. It is departing 12:30 on the 17 October. It is only for this day and we have only 3 seats available.
See tour here
If you are interested please email to: robert@floatingtours.com
Discover the magic of Christmas in Iceland
Discover the magic of Christmas in IcelandSee with your own eyes why CNN travel voted Reykjavik as the Top Christmas Holiday Destination. A package provided by Iceland Travel |
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Discover the magic of Christmas in Iceland and learn about new and old Icelandic Christmas traditions with Iceland Travel. It is a season when short days are brightened by snow and every house is decorated by all types of Chistmas ornaments and lights. It is a traditions people decorate their homes and have some very nice garlands in windows. Your hotel Icelandair Hotel Natura will be beautifully decorated too. The hotel will be visited by the 13 Santa brothers, the Icelandic Yuletide Lads.
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The 5 days itineraryDay 1 Arrival.Overnight in Reykjavík
Day 2. Christmas in Iceland: "The Mass of St Þorlákur", Dec. 23rdIn Iceland Thorláksmessa is part of Christmas. Most people use the day to finish decorating the home and the Christmas tree. In the evening people go out to Laugavegur and finish buying Christmas presents. Another tradition is to eat the putrefied skate with potatoes, but for many foreigners it is a challenge!
Day 3. Christmas Eve Day, Dec 24thYou will do a escorted morning hike with myth and mysteries expert through the woods of Öskjuhlið. You will learn about the secrets of the Icelandic folklore with all its elves, monsters and trolls stories. When you walk through the little forest small surprises will await you here and there! You will receive a little Christmas gift as a remembrance of this little journey. In the evening you will be having a festive Icelandic style Christmas buffet a la Satt Restaurant
Day 4. Christmas Day, Dec 25th.Today we suggest you see some of Iceland main attraction, such as going for the Golden Circle or bathing in the Blue Lagoon. In the evening you will enjoy a Christmas buffet a la Satt Restaurant.
Day 5. Departure.Today you will be departing from Keflavik Airport after some great Christmas in Iceland.
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Iceland or outer space?
6 days self drive idea to Myvatn Nature Baths
6 days self drive idea to MyvatnA 6 days self-drive idea including Hofsos, Myvatn and northern lights hunt close to the Arctic Circle |
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THE 6 DAYS ITINERARYDay 1 - Arrival in Keflavik, Iceland Arrival at Keflavik airport. Pick up your rental car at Thrifty. The first stop is Blue Lagoon. It is refreshing to jump into the Blue Lagoon just after your flight. It takes some 15 min to drive to Blue Lagoon from Keflavik Airport. From Blue Lagoon it should take some 30 min to get to Reykjavik. We recommend Center hotel Thingholt - a great hotel to stay at in Reykjavik. Very central and close to everything - shopping streets, nightlife or restaurants. In the evening we recommend you to do a guided northern lights tour with e.g. Arctic Adventures.
Day 2 - Hvalfjörður, Ferstikla, Borgarnes, Snæfellsnes![]() Day 3 - Drive to Myvatn and enjoy its nature baths and surrounding![]() Day 4 - Akureyri - capital of the north and DalvikToday you will drive in the morning to Akureyri from Myvatn. We recommend Icelandair Hotel Akureyri. When you have checked in we suggest you drive out to Dalvik a small fishing village north of Akureyri. A small village in a beautiful fjord. It is a option but you could go for a whale watching with a local tour. Drive back to Akureyri and enjoy staying in Akureyri with some great restaurants. In the evening go for the northern light hunt, but drive out of the city so you dont have any light pollution.
Day 5 - Driving back to Reykjavik![]() Day 6 - DepartureHead out to the Keflavik airport and if you have some extra time go for the Blue Lagoon again as it is very relaxing before going into a long flight.
Photo credit: Flickr - big-ashb, Ophelia, Julien Carnot, JasonParis, Andrea Schaffer, Olafur Larsen |
4 days self drive idea : Golden Circle & more
Golden Circle & Snæfellsjökull glacier4 days self-drive idea including Golden Circle, Snæfellsjökul glacier and northern lights hunt in the evening |
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THE 4 DAYS ITINERARYDay 1 - Arrival in Keflavik, Iceland Arrival at Keflavik airport. Simply pick up the next Flybus and get over to Reykjavik. It is around 45 min ride on the bus and they normally drive you all the way to the hotel you stay at. We recommend Kex hostel if you want to stay cheap, but Hotel 101 if you want more class. In between Centrum Hotel might be a good choose. In the evening you could e.g. pick up this northern light tour in the evening with Arctic Adventure.
Day 2 - Golden Circle trip![]() Day 3 - Snæfellsjokull glacier and Hotel Budir![]() Day 4 - Departure dayToday is your departure day so just wake up, pack your things and drive to Keflavik airport. This is of course only possible if your flight leaves late in the day - and if time allows, go to the Blue Lagoon and relax before you fly back home.
Photo credit: Flickr - AlexKr, Arian Zwegers, Ophelia, Matito, Jeremy Vandel, Yellow book |
8 days self drive to the Highlands and Lowlands of Iceland
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8 days self drive to the Highlands and Lowlands of Iceland
If you really want to see the real beauty of Iceland through the highlands and lowlands, this 8 days self drive idea is perfect for you.
If you are not in a hurry to explore Iceland and want to see its real beauty, this 8 day self drive idea to the highlands and lowlands is perfect for you. Explore the beautiful natural wonders of the country using a 4x4 rental car from Thrifty and stay in relaxing accommodations. Exploring both the lowland and highland sights such as Jokulsarlon, The Golden Circle, Skaftafell, and Landmannalaugar combines relaxation and adventure, so you will have a wonderful and enjoyable Iceland vacation. |
THE 8 DAYS ITINERARY
Day 1 – Arrive in Kelflavik International Airport and Reykjavik
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Day 2 – Exploring West Iceland and Thingvellir National Park
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Day 3 – The Golden Circle and the Stunning South Coast
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Day 4 – Exploring Skaftafell National Park and Jokulsarlon
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Day 5 – Visiting the Lakagigar Craters
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Day 6 – Exploring Landmannalaugar and Fjallabak
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Day 7 – Southwestern Iceland Areas
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Day 8 – Departure
About Us
About us
We are the only travel agent in Iceland focusing on the winter-season only
This website, www.northerlightsiceland.com, is part of Ferðamenn Íslands (Frumkvöðlar ehf) which is a family run business. Our specialization is the off-season period in Iceland but of course we also assist those who want to travel to Iceland in summer. We help customers with their itineraries and answer all questions they might have. Then we check availability and manage the bookings for tours and accommodation. Of course you get the same price as you would get from the tour operators, car rentals and hotels/hostels but is less hassle, you get personal service and free online assistance when you need it. It is important to us to give our customers free online service in order to help them plan their dream holiday and customize it to their needs. Our income is based on sale percentages from accommodation, car rentals and tour operators, so our clients don´t have to pay a penny for our service to them.
FAQ
Q: Is it more expensive to book through you than directly with the tour operators, car rentals and/or hotels/hostels?
A: No, it is the same price just less hassle and convenient to have a local check for availability and manage the booking process.
Q: I have special preferences for my itinerary and will need a lot of assistance with my planning. Is that a problem?
A: No, not at all. That´s what we are here for!
Q: Are you online 24/7?
A: We are online as often as we can. If we aren´t online when you are on the site, send us an email and we will get back to you asap.
Q: Are you a booking or travel agency?
A: We are a booking agency and the only off-season travel agent in Iceland. Over 75-80% of all travelers visit during the summer time, so large portion of travel businesses in Iceland close from 1. sept to 1. april each year. We specialize in this off-season (7 months) but of course we also cover the summer months.
Northern Lights Forecast for Iceland
One Stop Northern Lights Forecast
The Northern Lights season runs from 1st September, through winter, until 15th April, typically.
To see the Northern Lights with your naked eye, you need:
- Darkness (winter only)
- Clear skies (no clouds)
- Aurora activity (Northern Lights)
Todays Cloud Coverage and Satellite Images of the Aurora
Here’s How To Read The Map
The map is updated daily and gives you an indication of Northern Lights viewing. It’s a little confusing as the green colour is very similar to the colour of the actual Northern Lights but in fact the map shows green as cloud coverage and white as clear skies. The white areas are where you need to head for.
On the map you can see areas of white, light green and dark green. The white colour in the forecast means no clouds, so clear sky. This is ideal as you need to have a clear sky to see the Northern Lights. The light green means partly cloudy and dark green means very cloudy so a low chance for sightings as the visibility is low.
Basically if you can see the stars, then you have a chance of seeing the lights.
Why Does Cloud Coverage Matter?
The reason why we want to have the areas without clouds (or light clouds) is because it is impossible to see the lights when the sky is covered with clouds. When it is partly cloudy (light green areas) you still have a chance seeing the lights by finding a gap in the clouds.
How Often in the Map Updated?
The forecast is updated around 6pm daily so it’s best to keep a close eye on the forecast before heading out on your hunt.
For more information on viewing the Northern Lights in winter time, please read this article.
How are the Lights Monitored and Expressed?
Satellites are the main tool for observing and monitoring the sun and particle fluxes heading for Earth. Without these it would be difficult to create a reliable Northern Lights forecast. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Admin of the USA (NOAA) operates a couple of these, both covering the rear and the front of the Sun. The satellites both generate images and have sensors for observing particle fluxes from the sun. By using these observations we are able to create a Northern Lights forecasts based on numerical simulations and forecast models.


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2 days self-drive tour to Reykjavik and Hveragerdi
2 days self-drive tour to Reykjavik and HveragerdiExplore some of the main wonders of Iceland by getting this 2 days self-drive idea to Reykjavik and Hveragerdi. |
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This self drive idea is perfect for those who want to have a relaxing time in their Iceland vacation yet want to explore a few wonders of the country. You will first go to the capital of Iceland called Reykjavik and explore the place that reflects what Iceland is all about. On the second day, you will head to Hveragerdi and explore its places of interest. With a rental car from Thrifty, you can truly explore the wonders of Iceland in just two days.
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THE 2 DAYS ITINERARYDay 1 – Arrival via Keflavik International Airport; Explore ReykjavikArrive in Iceland via Keflavik International Airport late in the morning, get your rental car in Thrifty and drive towards the capital of Iceland, Reykjavik. Once there, you can check in at Hotel Cabin and drop your things before exploring the city.
![]() Source: Bryan Pocius You can relax a bit for awhile by going to The Culture House, National Centre for Cultural Heritage so you can explore the national heritage of Iceland. This establishment has various long term and short term exhibitions that are given by relevant institutions. You can also explore exhibitions on selected national treasures as well as attend tours, gatherings, lectures, artisitc events and public ceremonies.
![]() Source: JasonParis Next stop is the Hallgrimskirkja Church, which is Reykjavik’s main landmark and one of the best tourist attractions. This is known as the largest church in Iceland and the tall tower can be seen from anywhere in Reykjavik. The church tower is open to everyone from 9:00 to 20:00 so you can get a breathtaking view of the city from there. If you are into great architecture and stunning views, the Hallgrimskirkja Church is a great place to visit.
![]() Source: o palsson Another great tourist attraction to go to is the Perlan, which is the a historic landmark building that lets you have a panoramic view of the entire Reykjavik. It is known to be a huge water storage facility that collects geothermal water in order to supply it to the city. You can visit the Viking Saga Museum for more local history. And when you get there by lunchtime, you have a the choice of either eating in the restaurant or at the revolving restaurant that has 360 degree view of the city over 2 hours. It also has a viewing platform that you can go to for relaxation and peacefulness.
![]() Source: moohaha For getting more educated in this trip, go to Geothermal Energy Exhibition at the Hellisheiði Power Plant. Geothermal energy in Iceland is harnessed here in various ways to help the environment. The experienced guides will tell you how they are done and give you informative presentations with multimedia shows on how energy is used globally. The facility also provides a wide selection of educational materials on geothermal energy that you can buy and read.
![]() Source: ThinkGeoEnergy The last place to go is the Reykjavik Art Museum’s Ásmundarsafn sculpture collection that exhibits almost all of the works of Iceland sculptor, Asmundur Sveinsson. His works can also be seen in the garden outside of the museum and inside as well. The building was designed and constructed by the sculptor himself to make it his home and studio. View his amazing works and even buy casts of his selected works in the museum shop.
![]() Source: o palsson Once done exploring, go back to Htoel Cabin and have dinner and lounge at their restaurant and bar. If given the chance, you can have a glimpse of the Northern Lights that can appear anytime. Here is the map of Day 1:
Day 2 - Visiting Hveragerdi and Departing IcelandAfter having breakfast in Htoel Cabin, check out and drive towards the Heidmork, the largest forest and nature reserve in the area. It is one of the popular tourist destinations and recreational areas in Iceland because this is where Reykjavik's water reservoirs and drinking water wells are located. There are 4 million trees here and has been taken care off since the whole place is fenced off.
![]() Source: peturgk Since you are already nearby, it is good to visit Raudholar. This tourist attraction consist of cluster of red volcanic pseudocraters in the Elliðaárhraun lava fields and is located on the south-eastern outskirts of Reykjavík, Iceland. You can take photo opportunities here and be at awe of its natural formations.
![]() Source: Atli Harðarson The next place to go is the hot springs capital of the world: Hveragardi. For the whole year, there are pillar of steam from the numerous hot springs that are seen rising up out of the ground. You can go to the geothermal park and soak into the hot springs there after walking and touring outside the whole morning. There are also various relaxing treatments found here that you can avail so you can rejuvenate and re-energize before leaving Iceland. Afterwards, you can eat in any of the restaurants in Hveragardi and then explore the town a little more.
![]() Source: borkur.net After done exploring, you can drive back to Thrifty to bring back the rental car. And then proceed to Keflavik International Airport and depart from Iceland. Here is the map for Day 2:
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7 days self-drive tour around Iceland
7 days self-drive tour around IcelandExplore the highlights of Iceland through this 7 days self drive idea that combines adventure and relaxation. |
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If you want to explore the highlights of Iceland that combines relaxation and adventure, then this 7 days self drive is the thing for you. You will visit unbarren yet interesting places such as Ódáðahraun lava fields, the Magnificient North East and Lake Myvatn Surroundings as well as the city of Akureyri and small towns. You will rent a 4x4 rental car from Thrifty and drive your way to the great surroundings of Iceland.
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THE 7 DAYS ITINERARYDay 1 – Arrive in Keflavik International Airport and visit Golden CircleThis day is all about visiting the Golden Circle and be at awe with its wonders. You arrive in Keflavik International Airport and get your 4x4 rental car from Thirfty. Then go straight to the Golden Circle and visit the Gulfoss (Golden Falls), which is known as the queen of Icelandic waterfalls because of it wonderful and breathtaking beauty. It is located in the canyon of the Hvita river. This amazing destination is the best place to visit because you will be at awe with the water rushing down the three steps of lava layers that gives off a breathtaking and splendid aura. Then the water flows and “vanishes” in the crevice that is not seen by most tourists which makes it more magnificent and will leave you more fascinated. After touring this, you can have a tasty and delicious lunch in the Gullfoss cafe where they serve the traditional Icelandic meat soup and various meals.
![]() Source: suvodeb Next, you go to the geothermal area of Geysir. This place sprouts boiling water of various formations and goes up to 70 meters in the air, plus the ground bubbles and gurgles. There also various hot springs in the areas, so you can try relaxing there before going for a snorkel in the Silfra fissure.
![]() Source: big-ashb Visit Thingvellir next, which is home to the largest natural lake in Iceland called the Pingvallavatn. It is a tourist attraction that combines relaxation and exotic. You have the option to dive in the Silfra fissure if you have diving equipment with you as it is one of Iceland’s best kept secrets. Due to its crystal clear waters and blissful shads of blue, tourists and visitors can relax and explore the lake without getting too stressed as you will feel weightless in the lazy and peaceful current.
![]() Source: Vidar - Aqua-Photos.com You can end your day by going to Cabin Hotel Reykjavik and have your dinner in their restaurant and bar. You can either wait for the Northern Lights or prepare for your long drive the next day before going to sleep. Here is the map for Day 2:
Day 2 – Going to Kjölur Highland Trail and AkureyriHave breakfast in Cabin Hotel Reykjavik and drive your 4x4 rental car from Thrifty to the interior highland track Kjolur, which is a big rocky lava located between the huge glaciers Hofsjokull and Langjokull. Passing by Kjolur is a great experience because it is an uninhabited highland surrounded by mountains with various sizes and shapes as well as the two glaciers thatgive Kjolur a picturesque look. There is also a black desert and a colorful range of Rhyloite Mountains
![]() Source: ndanger ![]() Source: Andrea aka Leprotto**bisestile ![]() Source: Daquella manera The next place to go to is the geothermal area of Hveravellir that is also located in between two glaciers. It has hot springs and you can dip into the hot water to relax before continuing on your long drive.
![]() Source: genevieveromier Another stopover place you can go to is the valleys of Skagafjordur, a place known for hoirse breeding. You can explore its places of interest sych as the old farm, a museum at Glaumbaer and the tiny old church on Viðimýri. You can also have snacks here and lounge around before driving to Akureyri.
You arrive in Akureyri and check in at Hotel Akureryi. Afterwards, explore 2-3 attractions of the town such as the Akureryri Botanical Garden, Gasir and the Akureyri Church. You can have dinner in Greifinn Restaurant and then lounge at Guesthouse Akureyri and bar before going to sleep.
![]() Source: spi516 Below is the map of Day 2:
Day 3 – Lake Myvatn Surroundings and Small VillagesAfter having breakfast in the hotel, check out and drive to the Lake Myvatn area so you can have a closer look at one of the most spectacular waterfalls in Iceland: Godafoss. Take photo opportunities and be at awe with its great beauty
![]() Source: giuliaduepuntozero Then you can spend the day exploring and touring the natural wonders of Lake Myvatn and the surrounding areas. The lake is known as a great breeding place for ducks and other birdlife in the summer, while its surroundings offers a wide variety of unique landscapes and amazing geological formations.
![]() Source: Andrea Schaffer Some of the places you can visit are: Dimmuborgir lava formations, Krafla volcano, Námaskarð geothermal area, Skútustaðagígar pseudo craters, and the Nature Baths where you can take a bath for rejuvenation and re-energizing. Then you can have a late lunch nearby.
![]() Source: JasonParis Afterwards we go to Husavik town---which is also known as The Whale Watching Capital of the World. Obviously, you can take Whale Watching tours here and visit The Whale Museum so you can be educated on whales and the marine wildlife of the town. You can explore 2-3 tourist attractions of the town before checking in at Skulagar Country Hotel for dinner and some few days stay. Explore its surroundings more and, if you are lucky, catch the Northern Lights.
![]() Source: Örlygur Hnefill Here is the map for Day 3:
Day 4 – The Magnificient North East and HikingAfter having breakfast, take your 4x4 to Hljóðaklettar, also known as the the "Echo rocks". This is a magnificent canyon that is carved by the glacial river of Jökulsá á Fjöllum. You have the option to hike here so you can explore the many wonders of Jökulsárgljúfur National Park. You will also visit the Asbyrgi canyon. The hike will almost take the whole day so make sure that you allot the whole day just for the beautiful North East. You can have lunch in the area.
![]() Source: Ulrich Latzenhofer You will also visit the most powerful waterfalls in Europe, which is the Dettifoss waterfalls. It is a wonderful sight and you can take photo opportunities here.
![]() Source: plassen Once done with the hiking and exploring, go back to Skulagar Country Hotel for another overnight stay and dinner. Here is the map for Day 4:
Day 5 - Ódáðahraun lava field & EgilsstaðirHave breakfast and check out from Skulagar Country Hotel early in the morning as it will be a long day of uninhabited wilderness and deserted lava fields. The first stop would be the Herðubreiðarlindir springs located at the foot of Mt. Herðubreið. This springs has a green landscape despite being in a deserted place and has crystal clear springs that make it more beautiful and picturesque.
![]() Source: Ulrich Latzenhofer You can explore Mt. Herðubreið as it has a large lava field, campground and hiking trails. There is also a mountain hut and warden’s station if you need to rest or lounge a bit. Once done, you can have lunch here before proceeding to the next destination.
![]() Source: Ulrich Latzenhofer The next place to go is the great Dyngjufjöll mountain range and the Askja caldera, which are both located near each other. Passing through uneven lava fields and the edge of the Vatnajökull ice field, the Dyngjufjöll is located above the highland plateau while the Askja caldera is found in the center. From here, you can hike towards the Askja Lake and find the explosion crater called Viti, where you can take a short dip in the natural geothermal water of the crater lake.
![]() Source: Pole Este Afterwards, head towards the Egilsstaðir town and explore 2-3 attractions there before checking in at a hotel for an overnight stay. You can also have dinner here or prepare for the trip the next day.
![]() Source: Sibba Here is the map of Day 5:
Day 6 – Jokulsarlon and VikHave breakfast and leave early as it will take you three hours to get to Jokulsarlon, a large glcaial lagoon located in the borders of Vatnajokull National Park. The lake has been growing through the years due to the receding glaciers of the Atlantic Ocean. If you are up for an adventure, you can go jeep or amphibian boat tours to further explore Jokulsarlon. But if you want a quiet tour, you can walk around the whole area and even go to the black sand beaches.
Afterwards, have lunch on the way before heading for the small little town of Vik. This is known as the wettest place in all of Iceland because of its location directly beneath the Mýrdalsjökull glacier.
![]() Source: nicksarebi The first place to is the village church located at the highest point of the town. The story with this church is the town is in danger of being wiped out due to a massive flash flood that can happen from a glacial runoff in case the active volcano Katla erupts. The Reynisfjara Church is the only building that is said to survive the volcanic eruption and the flash flood. This is why residents have volcano drills where they are trained to evacuate their homes and rush to the church. Hike towards it to see the church up close.
![]() Source: JasonParis Next places of interest are the Wool Factory and Nupsstadur Farm and Church. These places are good to explore quietly before taking your lunch. Shop for handcrafts and souvenirs made from the factory itself. The Nupsstadur Farm and Church is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that has old buildings. Afterwards, take your lunch and lounge a bit in one of the tasty restaurants. We recommend Vikurskali that serves delicious lamb soup, fish sandwiches, and meals. Lounge there first before taking a hike to Myrdalsjokull Glacier
![]() Source: Bods Once full and ready to go, hike to the Myrdalsjokull Glacier where visitors can easily walk on the ice when the weather is good. This is just one of the largest glaciers in the area and it is not difficult to hike as long as you have experts guiding you along the way. Ask the information center of Vik regarding Glacier walk tours that can take three hours or more.
![]() Source: cyrildoussin To end your visit in Vik, relax by going to the Dyrholaey and walk around the Black Sand Beaches. The Dyrholaey is a small peninsula to view the various parts of Vik from a high peak. You will also be able to see a gigantic black arch of lava standing tall in the sea, which is known as the “hill-island with the door-hole”.
![]() Source: johan wieland Afterwards, walk around the Black Sand Beach which consists of black sand and black pebbles. You can see the basalt rocks and caves that column the area and makes the beach even more unique---especially at sunset. You can stay here until you are relaxed and ready to drive back.
![]() Source: Johannes Martin You can take a dinner in Vik and check in at Hotel Ranga. Here is the map of Day 6:
Day 7 – Blue Lagoon and Depart From IcelandCheck out of Hotel Ranga and go straight to Blue Lagoon for rejuvenation and relaxation.
![]() Source: Sarah_Ackerman Drop off your rental car in Thrifty and drive to Keflavik Airport for your departure. Here is the map of Day 5:
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Whale watching in Reykjavik
Whale watching in Reykjavik
- South Iceland
- Duration: 2 - 2.5 hours
- Difficult level: Easy
SHORT TOUR - Enjoy the unspoiled nature and wildlife of Iceland on a brand new and fast whale watching boat, one of its kind in Iceland. See the whales in their natural environment. Over 90% viewing success!
Whale watching is a unique experience. To see the whales in their natural environment is simply wonderful and they usually get very close to the boat. During puffin season we make a stop by puffin island to admire these clever little birds. Puffin season is 1st May – 20th August and during that time, thousands of puffins are on the island. It only takes around 20-25 minutes from the Old Harbour in Reykjavík to get to where the whales are and the guides will tell you about the different kids of whales you can expect to see.
This whale watching tour is different from other whale watching tours offered in the sense that the boat used is new, fast and luxurious. On this tour, you get the same amount of time whale watching as on other whale watching tours, just less time waiting.
The viewing success rate is 90% but if you are one of the few unlucky ones, you will get another tour free of charge. If you are cold, we have warm overalls you can borrow and there is also a lovely heated seating area with large windows for viewing. Your guide and crew will be of assistance during the tour
HIGHLIGHTS:
- Whales in their natural environment
- Puffins (during puffin season, 1st May - 20th August)
- New, luxurious and fast whale watching boat
- 90% viewing success
- If no whales are seen on your tour, you get another tour for free
- Experienced guides and crew
DETAILS
Oct to March
DEPARTURE:
Daily departures 13:00 from Oct to March
DURATION:
2 - 2.5 hours
PLEASE NOTE:
Please bring warm clothing as the weather in Iceland is unpredictable and it is always colder out in the open sea. You can borrow warm overalls on board if you get cold.
OTHER USEFUL INFORMATION:
Drinks & Snacks bar on board, wireless internet on board, pick-up in greater Reykjavík area
Tour to see the magic in Iceland
Northern Lights from John Welsh on Vimeo.
NORTHERN LIGHTS ICELAND TOUR
Northern Lights Iceland Tour: To plan a trip to Iceland to see the Northern lights will probably be one of the best trips you have decided to go on. Northern light evening tours in Iceland are one option in fullfilling your dream to experience the Northern lights. If the sky is clear and the temperature is below zero, these wonderful lights will give you an amazing and colourful show.
NORTHERN LIGHTS ICELAND TOUR – BEST TIME
The best time to visit Iceland to see the Northern lights is from October to April. Tours are offered during winter so it is easy to book one. It is predicted that the lights will be at their brightest level in 2012 so do not miss out of the opportunity to see this wonder of nature at its best. Northern lights Iceland tour is something that can be a great experience.
NORTHERN LIGHTS ICELAND TOURS – WHEN AND HOW TO BOOK
The Northern lights in Iceland are magical and it is possible to see them in Reykjavík but they are even more clearer away from the city lights. Therefore, Northern lights Iceland tours will help you experience this wonder of nature and give you the time of your life. It is easy to book and if you need any help planning your Northern lights trip, we are happy to help you find the tour that suits your needs. Just send us an email and we will reply as soon as possible so you will get a great Northern Lights Iceland tour.
Hotel Gullfoss
Hotel Gullfoss
- Brattholt, Bláskógabyggð
- Hotel
- Open All Year
Located between Gullfoss and Geysir, Hotel Gullfoss is a perfect place to relax after a long day touring the Golden Circle.
Our rooms are small size and fairly prices, so nothing fancy, but they are well equipped with large beds, your own bathroom, tea/coffee facilities, wardrobe, TV and fluffy pillows. Outside we have two hot tubs waiting for you. The hotel is the only hotels located in walking distance from the world famous Gullfoss waterfall, so the location is great for travelers wanting to avoid the rush hours. Close by we have Geysir geothermal area - only 10 min drive away.
DETAILS








TELEPHONE:
+354 4868979
EMAIL ADDRESS:
info@hotelgullfoss.is
OFFICIAL WEBSITE:
http://www.hotelgullfoss.com/
LOCATION - BRATTHOLT, BLASKOGABYGGÐ
The New Year in Iceland seen from a Wi-Fi quadricopter
The New Year in Iceland
Bird-eye view from a Wi-Fi quadricopter
Great video from Andres Sighvatsson living in Iceland
Reykjavik & Akureyri in 5 days
Reykjavík & Akureyri in 4 daysExplore and enjoy the two largest cities in Iceland: 4 day self driveIf you are planning a self drive in Iceland and need ideas for a route, then the northern coast is a lovely choice. You can either pick up your car at Keflavik airport or choose to fly from Reykjavik to Akureyri and pick up your rental car there. The northern coast has many gems so you could spend days there but here we suggest a 4 day self drive route of the area
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THE 5 DAY ITINERARYDay 1 – Arrive in Keflavik Airport, Overnight Stay in Reykjavik![]() Source: pocius When you arrive at Keflavik international airport, either take a taxi or the Flybus to Reykjavik where you spend the night. The domestic airport is in the city center and easy to get to. Here we suggest you fly from Reykjavik to Akureyri where you pick up your rental car but of course you can opt to pick up your car in Keflavik and drive from there to Akureyri (takes around 6 hours when road conditions are optimal and with 1-2 stops on the way).
They day you spend in Reykjavik, make the most of it and get to know the city a bit. Here you can find a few ideas what to see and do. There are many lovely restaurants in the center that we advice you to check out. Here is a list of our favorite places.
Day 2 – Depart from Reykjavik. Local Flight to AkureyriIn the morning, take a taxi to the domestic airport and fly to Akureyri where you will pick up your rental car.
![]() Source: mlcastle When you arrive in Akureyri have have gotten the keys to your rental car, your adventure of the northern coast will begin. Akureyri itself has a lot to offer so we recommend you spend the day in the city, exploring and enjoying everything it has to offer.
![]() Source: JasonParis In summer the Botanical Garden is a wonderful place to visit. There you will find a unique collection of Icelandic flora and fauna along with imported flowers, trees and shrubs. In winter it is also worth visiting on a nice winter day.
In Akureyri you will find various museums, such as the Akureyri Museum and the Aviation Museum. The Akureyri Museum contains will give you a good overview of the life and history of the area. There you will also find a garden that is a popular picnic spot among the locals. The Aviation Museum is where you will find the history of aviation in Iceland.
Gasir, a medieval trading place, is an interesting site to visit. It is where you can find the remains of a trading post from the Middle Ages. It was the main trading post in Northern Iceland before so here you get a true taste of history!
![]() Source: joaoleitao The church in Akureyri is a site worth visiting. It is symbolic for the town and is known for its many steps. It is a Lutheran church that has great architecture designed by Gudjon Samuelsoon. The stained glass in the center and the bas-reliefs on the nave balcony are just some of its great features that people look at.
![]() Source: Jennie Faber You spend the night in Akureyri at the end of day 2. You can find many nice hotels and guesthouses in and around the city. Just boo in advance as Akureyri is a popular vacation site among locals, both in winter and summer.
Day 3 - Skiing and relaxingAkureyri is one of the most popular places for locals to go skiing. So if you visit in winter, the northern lights aren´t the only attraction. No need to mention but if you are in Akureyri during winter then you should for sure put aurora hunting on your list every night.
![]() Source: axelkr Eyjafjordur Fjord is one of the best places in the country to do downhill skiing. You can go to the skiing area of Mt. Hlídarfjall or Mountain Kaldbakur, and you can also opt to drive out of Akureyri to Trollaskagi or Dalvik where you will find splendid skiing sites. If you aren´t into skiing then you should do a tour of the area with an experienced guide or in summer simply just drive around and enjoy the amazing views.
![]() Source: Michael Voelker To go swimming is a must. All pools are heated by natural geothermal water and has various playing and recreation areas for everyone. You will find great pools in the area and it doesn´t matter whether you go during winter or summer, the water is warm so you don´t need to worry that you´ll get cold even though the pools are outdoors!
![]() Source: spi516 Day 4 - Sightseeing and Whale WatchingIn the morning one option is to take the sightseeing tours, either by plane or helicopter, if you want to see Akureyri and surroundings from above. It is a nice option as you can see sites that aren´t always accessible on land, like Askja.
![]() Source: Bernt Rostad In the afternoon you can join a whale watching tour either from Akureyri or from Dalvík. The northern coast is optimal for whale watching but please note that the whale watching tours don´t operate during the winter months. If you want to go whale watching in winter, then you must depart from the harbor in Reykjavik. In the evening, fly back to Reykjavik.
![]() Source: Julien Carnot Day 5 - Blue lagoon and departure dayIf your flight leaves in the afternoon, it is ideal to enjoy the morning in Reykjavik and then head to the Blue lagoon where you can soak and relax before you go to the airport. The lagoon is close to Keflavik airport so it is an ideal last stop on your journey.
![]() Source: Sarah_Ackerman This route is just an idea so you can enjoy in only a few days what those two cities have to offer. Of course you can expand the tour or make it shorter. Also add D-tours to the route, like Lake Mývatn, Ásbyrgi and Húsavík. What ever you decide to do, it is certain you will enjoy the wonderful two cities and their surroundings.
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4 Days Self-Drive Idea to the Highlands, Golden Circle and Reykjanes Peninsula
4 Days Self-Drive Idea to the Highlands, Golden Circle and Reykjanes PeninsulaCombine adventure and relaxation in this 4-day self drive trip to the Highlands, Golden Circle and Reykjanes Peninsula. |
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If you are up for an adventure but don’t want to go extreme and still need room for relaxation, this 4-day self drive idea with a rental car from Thrifty is the right one for you. You not only stay in a luxurious hotel called the Hotel Highland, but you also get to explore the Gullfoss-Geysir area where you can do some snorkeling or other outdoor activities. For some relaxation, you can go to the Blue Lagoon that will leave you energized and educated. Plus, of course, you will have the chance to get a glimpse of the famous Northern Lights.
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THE 4 DAYS ITINERARYDay 1 – Arrival in Keflavik, Iceland and Check-In in Hotel Highland![]() Source: mckaysavage Depending on your flight, you can arrive in Keflavik Airport at around late afternoon (4 or 5pm) to do the necessary things needed for your 4-day vacation. The first thing to do is get your rental car in Thrifty and do the drive to Hotel Highland in the interior of the Icelandic Highlands. Once checked in, you can unpack, eat dinner and lounge at the hotel restaurant that serves gourmet food made from the purest and finest local ingredients prepared by international chefs. Then, you can just relax for the rest of the night by exploring its surroundings or---given the chance---have a glimpse of the Northern Lights. Here is the map for Day 1.
Day 2 - Gullfoss – Geysir Tour and SnorkelingYou can leave the Hotel Highland early in the morning since it will take almost three hours to get to Gullfoss (Golden Falls), the undisputed queen of Icelandic waterfalls located in the canyon of the Hvita river. Once there, you can ask Reykjavik Excursions to take you to the Gullfoss-Geysir tour. This amazing tourist destination is very famous because the water rushes down the three steps of lava layers with breathtaking power and splendor. The flow of the water and how it “vanishes” in the crevice that is obscured from view is one of the things that makes it magnificent and will leave you at awe. After touring this, you will have the opportunity to taste and feast in the traditional Icelandic meat soup and lunch of the Gullfoss café.
![]() Source: JasonParis The next part of the tour is the geothermal area of Geysir , which is known to be The Great Geysir. It is known to sprout boiling water of various formations that goes up to 70 meters in the air and the ground gurgles and bubbles. There are also various hot springs in the vicinity and you can try for relaxation before you snorkel in the Silfra fissure.
![]() Source: big-ashb Before the day ends, it is good to visit Thingvellir, which is home to Þingvallavatn, the largest natural lake in Iceland. It is one of the best parts to do for this day because it is relaxing and exotic at the same time. Dividing is also an option here and if you have diving equipment, you can dive into The Silfra fissure---one of Iceland’s best-kept secrets because it combines crystal clear waters and blissful shades of blue. The best part here is you don’t have to be stressed while diving as you will feel weightless as you float your way into the lazy and peaceful current.
![]() Source: Vidar - Aqua-Photos.com The day ends by going back to Hotel Highland and having your dinner in their restaurant and bar. Lounge a bit and prepare for the next day tour before going to sleep. Below is the map of Day 2:
Day 3 - Reykjanes and Blue LagoonThis day is about touring simple yet interesting attractions. You can check out from Hotel Highland and start driving towards Reykjanes, a peninsula and volcanic system, and start explore at 2-3 attractions. We would suggest The Leif the Lucky Bridge near Grindavik that is known as the boundary mark of the Eurasian and North American continental tectonic plates. You can also visit fishing towns such as Grindavik and eat at a great restaurant or just explore the town.
![]() Source: rwhgould After the touring and being out in the sun the past days, it is time to relax and be energized by going to the Blue Lagoon. You can get water massages and beauty treatments or have a day tour with the establishment. Either way, you can spend the rest of the remaining day here so you can feel energized and serene. There are various services to choose from in Blue Lagoon that will match your preferences and tastes.
![]() Source: Stephen_AU Once done rejuvenating, you can drive to Hotel Northernlights Inn and check in so you can double check your stuff before leaving Iceland the next day. Here is the map for Day 3:
Day 4 - Day 4 – Departure from IcelandOnce done with you last-minute preparations, you can drop off your rental car in Thrifty and go to the Keflavik Airport for your departure. Hope you had a wonderful vacation here in Iceland. Below is a map of Day 4:
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1 day self-drive idea to Reykjanes
One day's self-drive idea for ReykjanesReykjanes is known for it volcanic landscape, Kleifarvatn area and Blue Lagoon. This is a tour to see it all. |
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This is a one day self drive idea to the Reykjanes peninsula that is known for its volcanic landscape, beautiful lakes and lagoons, fishing villages, churches and rough lava fields. We recommend you to rent a car from Thrifty and drive carefully the suggested itinerary. It should not be much longer than 7-9 hours, with plenty of time for e.g. bathing in Blue Lagoon and so forth.
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THE 1 DAY ITINERARYIn the morning - The church of HallgrimurSource: photographyblogger.net via Incredible Iceland on Pinterest We start in Reykjavik itself. Go and visit Hallgrimskirkja in the downtown. It is a beautiful church and go all the way up to the top. You will have a wonderful view over Reykjavik area. In front of the church we have the Ingolfur Arnarson the settler the found America.
The PearlSource: planetearthdailyphoto.blogspot.com via Incredible Iceland on Pinterest The Pearl or Perlan (icelandic) is a historic landmark building in Iceland that offers a panoramic view of the entire sprawling city. Although the building dates from 1991, it is a huge water storage facility that collects geothermal water and supplies it to the city. The facility now has a viewing platform, a cafeteria, and a revolving restaurant on top. You can visit the Pearl and then take a look at the Viking Saga Museum to enjoy local history. The cafeteria is ideal for breakfasts and offers a range of family-friendly and budget-friendly meals. For a luxury breakfast, the revolving restaurant is perfect as it offers a 360 degree view of the city over 2 hours. Bessastaoir is the local residence of Iceland’s President. It is probably the only presidential residence that is without guards, fences or fearsome security.
Kleifarvatn lakeSource: 500px.com via Incredible Iceland on Pinterest Having checked out the Pearl in Reykjavik, we head out to Reykjanes pensinula. It is some 45 min drive to Kleifarvatn that is situation in the middle of a old lava field. It is known to for its beautiful setting.
Reykjanes coastSource: anortherncabin.tumblr.com via Craig on Pinterest The coast side next to the small fishing village Grindavik is known for its beauty. You can see all types of formations and natural wonders in the area. Simply drive around the area and enjoy various landscapes.
Blue LagoonSource: google.co.uk via Incredible Iceland on Pinterest The last stop before heading back to Reykjavik is the world famous Blue Lagoon. It is a geothermal spa rich in minerals like silica and sulphur - and it is well known for being great for various types of skin diseases.
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Need help with booking your hotel in Reykjavik?
Need help with booking your hotel?
- We go there in person, shoot a video and get real answers
We go the extra mile! Most global websites selling hotel services all over the world do not have any local presence. We have in Reykjavik and we will simply do our job if you need help. We are also independent with no affiliation with any large hotel chains or other travel businesses. Send us your worries and we will do our best to answer it by simply going to the location, visit it in person, shoot a video and send you. Then if you like it we will help you book the stay. All at no extra cost for you.
1. We will try to understand your worries or questions you have
We will do our best to understand your worries or questions you have by email, skype or other ways of communicating. Simply best to send us your short description in the contact form below and we will follow up. Often the websites do not have good enough images of the room or do not give detailed enough information so we will try our best to help.
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We will bike or drive to the location of the hotel if needed. Talk to the reception if needed and shoot videos if needed. It all depends on what needs to be observed. Most of the time these are some simple things like shooting couple of videos so travelers will have better understanding of the hotel before booking.
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[contact-form-7 404 "Not Found"]Expert on the northern lights in Iceland
Expert on the northern lights in Iceland
- Expert knowledge of the northern lights
- Years of experience: 15 years
Robert S. Robertsson is our expert for the northern lights in Iceland. He is the owner of this northern lights website and has written most of the northern lights articles on the site. He is born in the southern part of Iceland and has lived in Iceland for over 27 years - and knows about all the local gems and has first hand experience of most of the tours and activities available.
He can help you with booking the right tour, finding the right hotel and simply give you answers on where it is best to see it and e.g. when in the year and all the questions that come up when planning at trip to Iceland to see them.
How can he help?
He can help you with booking activities in his area of expertise - anything in relation to northern lights viewing and planing your trip to Iceland. This can be e.g. when best to see the lights, where to stay, which tours to do and so forth. His local advises are free of charge for the traveler.
Send a message to Robert here
[contact-form-7 404 "Not Found"]Northern lights photography expert
Northern lights photography expert
- Expertise: northern lights photography
- Years of experience: 15 years
Sigurður Jónsson is our expert for the northern lights photography in Iceland. He has been doing aurora shooting for long time and has both experience of the still images and video. He did his undergraduate study in USA and has been working as photographer in Iceland for over 20 years now. He should be able to help you in this regard and also help you find the right tour and hotels for this type of travel services.
How can he help?
He can help you with booking activities in his area of expertise - anything in relation to northern lights photography and related things. This could be where best locations are for shooting northern lights photos, when best to do it, what type of cameras and so forth. His local advises are free of charge for the traveler.
Send a message to Sigurður here
[contact-form-7 404 "Not Found"]Expert on the East fjords in Iceland
Expert on the East fjords in Iceland
- Expertise: Eastfjords in Iceland
- Years of experience: 23 years
Sigríður Jóna is our expert on the Eastfjords in Iceland. A area with amazing nature and has many gems of natural wonder. She is located in the area and runs her own travel agency, so she knows the area very well and can help you with various subjects related to the Eastfjords in Iceland.
How can she help?
She can help you with booking activities in her area of expertise - the Eastfjords in Icealnd. This could be where it is best to stay, when to go there or if it is safe to travel by rental car in the winter time. Her local advises are free of charge for the traveler.
Send a message to Sigríður here
[contact-form-7 404 "Not Found"]Expert on Reykjavik
Expert on Reykjavik in Iceland
- Expertise: Reykjavik in Iceland
- Years of experience: 27 years
Hilmar Jónsson is our travel expert on the Reykjavik area in Iceland. The capital of Iceland. He is located in the area and runs his own travel agency, so he knows Reykjavik very well and can help you with questions in regard to the nightlife, hotels to stay at and much more.
How can she help?
He can help you with booking activities in her area of expertise - Reykjavik in Iceland. This could be where it is best to stay, where to go for the nightlife or what restaurants are best. He runs his own travel agency and might help by suggesting trips they are doing but only if it fits the need of the traveler. His local advises are free of charge for the traveler.
Send a message to Hilmar here
[contact-form-7 404 "Not Found"]Bus tour expert
Bus tour expert in Iceland
- Regional expertise: South Iceland
- Years of experience: 5 years
Gunnar Valdimarsson is our travel expert in the area of how to travel with a bus in Iceland, both by doing half day or full day tours close to Reykjavik and how to get around Iceland with bus in general. We can say he is therefore a excellent source for inexpensive travelling within Iceland. He can also help you with getting charter service if you have a small or large group doing trips to Iceland.
How can he help?
He can help you with booking activities in his area of expertise - travelling with bus in Iceland. He is part of a local bus tour company and has gained his expertise from running this company and might suggest trips they are doing but only if it fits with what the travelers needs. So any questions in regard to day tours with bus in South Iceland and your itinerary to the area e.g. which hotel to stay in, what to do, where to go etc is his expertise and he can for sure help you with. He has also extensive experiencing driving in Iceland so feel free to ask him about driving conditions in the winter, weather etc. His local advises are free of charge for the traveler.
Send a message to Gunnar here
[contact-form-7 404 "Not Found"]Biking and hiking expert for Hengill Geothermal area
Biking and hiking expert for Hengill
- Regional expertise: Hengill Geothermal Area
- Years of experience: 25 years
Andres Ulfarsson is our expert for biking and hiking in the great Hengill Geothermal Area, that are famous for its natural hot springs. He has a local family tour company that has for over 25 years obtained extensive experience of Hengill and the area close to Hveragerði. Along with experiences of Hveragerði, Hengill and surrounding, Andres has extensive knowledge of all south Iceland and is happy to help travelers organize their trips in this part of Iceland.
How can he help?
He can help you with booking activities in his area of expertise - outdoor adventures, biking and hiking. He is running his own company and might suggest trips they are doing but only if it fits with what the travelers need. So any questions in regard to South Iceland and your itinerary to the area e.g. which hotel to stay in, what to do, where to go etc is his expertise. His local advises are free of charge for the traveler.
Send a message to Andres here
[contact-form-7 404 "Not Found"]Arnanes Country Hotel
Arnanes Country HotelGreat view of the Vatnajökull glacier and the town from the guestrooms plus a nice horseback riding experience at the hotel. |
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One of the top-rated Icelandic hotels in Hofn, Arnanes Country Hotel provides a total of 16 rooms for guests who would like to view glaciers right from their accommodations. The windows of most rooms offer a nice spot to capture pictures of the beautiful scenery of white landscapes and outstanding mountains
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Our review for Arnanes Country HotelThe ideal location of Arnanes Country Hotel is not the only thing to like in this hotel; the staff is helpful, attentive and polite to their customers. The staff, as well as the owner, never fails to welcome their guests as if they didn’t leave their home at all, but with the twist of good facilities one would like to experience in a country hotel such as this. The hotel also offers horseback riding and free breakfast and free parking. For budget travellers, the Arnanes Country Hotel offers sleeping bag accommodations located in the hotel basement.
The sight from the rooms and the balcony was remarkable; the glaciers, the Icelandic waters, the mountains and the landscapes were relaxing especially when viewed while drinking a freshly brewed coffee from the onsite restaurant.
According to the customers, the rooms are very comfortable to sleep in, and the private bathrooms are very clean and complete with basic toiletries. The Icelandic breakfast is always made using home-grown vegetables and local farm products, rendering it fresh and delicious.
One of the drawbacks that customers found during their stay in the hotel is the lack of kitchen in all the rooms. Although this is a considerable absence for some guests, most visitors were fine with it because of the short distance of the Arnanes Country Hotel from the best restaurants in Hofn.
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Last minute deals
Recent last minute deals
Aurora floating tour to the Secret Lagoon (link)
Availability: 3 seats
Departing: 19:30 - 20:00 11. nov
Discount: 33%
Please send email to: robert@ferdamenn.is if you are interested
First come, first get
Sign up for our last minute deals
You give us (email/dates) when you are in Iceland and we will send you last minute deals when they become available. These are discounts (normally between 25-75%) provided by tour operators in the 24 hours before a tour departs. You will only get emails while you are staying in Iceland.
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The author Arnaldur Indriðason
The author Arnaldur Indriðason
Cosy country side hotel
Northern lights searching at a country hotelSearch for the northern lights and explore the spectacular attractions of South Iceland on this 3-day tour at a charming country hotel with Icelandic Farm Holidays |
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This tour is ideal for those looking for a short break which combines city life, a stay at a beautiful country hotel and a northern lights hunt. The tour is based at Country Hotel Anna, a small and charming family-run hotel located near many of Iceland‘s most stunning sites. The tour includes a rental car for 3 days, accommodation in Reykjavik and at Country Hotel Anna in South Iceland, two dinners and an escorted evening northern lights tour. View more information about Country Hotel Anna including photos and video here.
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THE 3 DAYS ITINERARYDay 1: Iceland arrival, staying in Reykjavik
Arrive at Keflavik airport and take the Flybus to your hotel/guesthouse in Reykjavik. In Reykjavik you will find many excellent restaurants, downtown design shops, great nightlife and a vibrant cultural scene.
Day 2: Drive to the South CoastYou will pick-up your rental car in the morning. Drive south and visit the precious natural attractions of the “Golden Circle“, such as Thingvellir national park, Gullfoss waterfall, Geysir geothermal area in addition to the beautiful Seljalandsfoss waterfall. In the evening you will enjoy staying at the charming and romantic Country Hotel Anna. The hotel is located in the beautiful area of Skogar, where you will be staying for the next two nights. In the evening you will hopefully see the northern lights dance in the sky.
Day 3: The South East and northern lights tour Today you should head for the amazing Jokulsarlon glacier lagoon, view the birdlife at Dyrholaey, explore Skogarfoss waterfall, Skaftafell National Park and Kirkjubæjarklaustur. When you are back at the hotel a delicious evening dinner will be waiting for you – just before you head out on a 3-hours guided evening tour with northern lights searching and exploration of the area.
WHAT IS UNIQUE ABOUT THIS TOUROn this tour you can combine a city experience in Reykjavik with a stay in the beautiful countryside of South Iceland, in only 3 days. By staying in the countryside you increase your chances of viewing the mystical northern lights. You also get to explore some of Iceland‘s most precious attractions in a landscape of black sands, glacier lagoons, waterfalls, hot springs and volcanoes - including the world famous Eyjafjallajökull volcano!
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Thrifty.is economy cars
Thrifty.is - economy rental cars in Iceland |
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Thrifty has rental cars at four rental locations: Reykjavik, Keflavik airport, Akureyri Down Town and Akureyri airport. Thrifty rates are all inclusive with no hidden charges. Thrifty rates include CDW insurance with self-risk, unlimited mileage, vehicle theft protection and all taxes. It is ISO 9001 certified, offers free shuttle bus service and we do everything we can help you easily change or cancel your booking whenever you need - with no questions asked.
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Thrifty.is - compact car rental in Iceland
Thrifty.is - compact rental cars in Iceland |
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Eent a car from Thrifty at four rental locations: Reykjavik, Keflavik airport, Akureyri Down Town and Akureyri airport. Rates at Thrifty are all inclusive with no hidden charges at all. The rates include CDW insurance with self-risk, unlimited mileage, vehicle theft protection and all taxes. Thrifty is certified by ISO 9001 and offers free bus service and we do everything we can help you easily change or even cancel your booking when you need to do so - with no questions asked.
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ATV & black sand beach
ATV & black sand beachGreat ATV & black sand beach tour to South Iceland with Arctic Adventures |
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On this beautiful winter hike tour with Arctic Adventures This tour starts in Reykjavik where you will be picked up on a super jeep early in the morning. We will start by driving to Hellisheiði Mountain where we will gear up for adventures quad biking in the lava fields around the mountain. We use powerful Yahama Grizzly bike on extra large tires. It is a great adventure and almost like biking on the moon. Next stop is Seljalandsfoss Waterfall where we will walk behind the water. Further we drive through the infamous "Volcano Alley", into the black sand beach. On the way back we visit Skogarfoss Waterfall. We are back to Reykjavik around 18:00.
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What is great with this tour?Just imagine driving through the "volcano valley" with Eyjafjalla mountains with the world well known Eyjafjallajökul volcano on your left, then on the right side you have the volcanic Westman Islands and the powerful Katla volcano straight in front of us. This will be your view sitting in the jeep on your in the volcanic valley. What a amazing view and you can not find any other place in the world that has similar powerful views.
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Seljalandsfoss, Skogarfoss & Glacier
Seljalandsfoss, Skogarfoss & GlacierGreat tour to Seljalandsfoss, Skogarfoss and a glacier in South Iceland with Arctic Adventures |
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On this beautiful winter hike tour with Arctic Adventures you will be picked up in Reykjavik on one of our modified super jeeps. We will then drive Hellisheidi Mountain and go for the 1000 rivers moutain road where we will cross the river many times before going down to the low lands on Iceland´s south coast. In the south we begin by stopping at Seljalandsfoss Waterfall, one of Iceland´s most beautiful waterfalls, which we can walk behind the veil of water. After this we will visit Solheimajokull Glacier. At the glacier we will put on spikes for the soles of our shoes and other needed gear. With a expert glacier guide we will hike around on foot. Close by is the infamous Eyjafjallajökull volcano. After the hike we will eat a packed lunch out in the nature. Then we will follow a river down to the black and beaches. On our super jeep we will drive on the sand with the relentless surf of the North Atlantic Ocean on our left side. We will then enter the road again close to the famous Skógarfoss waterfall. We will then drive back to Reykjavik and be there around 18:00
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What is great with this tour?The southern part of Iceland is one of the most amazing part of Iceland. You will be able to combine seeing some of its greatest diamonds like Seljalandsfoss and black sand beaches, with being out in its harsh nature - a glacier hiking. This means you are not only sitting in a car all the time and watching you get in a better touch with the Icelandic nature than the normal tourist tours.
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Elves in Iceland
Elves in Iceland
What is it all about?
Artist and Seer Ragnhildur Jonsdottir has communicated whith the Elves in Iceland since her early age. Ragnhildur will tell you about the huldufolk, elves and other magical beings in Iceland, their dwellings and their desire to live peacefully with the human beings. The 45-55 minute walk through the amazing Hellisgerði Lava Park in the friendly harbor town of Hafnarfjordur, 17 minutes away from central Reykjavik, will help us understanding the invisible world of "huldufolk". You can ask her about all the things you have ever wondered about the Elves. When the walk is done you can visit the small Elfgarden cafe to continue the talk, enjoy the art inspired by the "huldufolk" and get some coffee or tea.!
This mini-tour is suitable for everyone!
Price is ISK 4000 per person (includes coffee and the book „How you can see an elf“)
Coffee on the Arctic Circle
Coffee on the Arctic Circle
What is it about?
In Iceland coffee is an institution. With around 8.7 kilos of beans every year, this small island in the north drinks more coffee per capita than France and the UK combined. Why?
I will take you for a tour around the small cafes in Reykjavik where we will try out and see the art of Icelandic coffee brewing. A great way to spend your time while you wait for the northern lights to show up. Competition is very harsh and many high quality venues to discover, the only question is, how many cups of coffee can you take?
This activity is suitable for everyone, including beginners having no coffee drinking experience at all!
The cost is ISK 6000.
Going to Iceland
Northern light in Iceland. Shot on various locations - beautiful scenery and amazing work done. Takes a lot of patience to shoot this.