From CAD 3,230
Guarantee
Small Group
Unknown
Rating
(20 reviews)
Experience Overview
Go in search of the most dramatic lightshow on Earth on this aurora-hunting adventure in Iceland. Guided by an expert local tour leader, we head into the Icelandic countryside, where the dark skies (and real-time data) give us our best chance of seeing the Northern Lights. Here, we also discover roaring waterfalls, icebergs littered on the black volcanic sands of Diamond Beach, and the Golden Circle of Gullfoss Waterfall, Geysir and Thingvellir National Park.
Profile
— Accommodation: 4 Classic nights (hotels) — Flybus transfer to meet any flight — Travel by air-conditioned minibus — Group normally 6 to 16, plus leader. Minimum age: 16
At a Glance
— Accommodation: 4 Classic nights (hotels) — Flybus transfer to meet any flight — Travel by air-conditioned minibus — Group normally 6 to 16, plus leader. Minimum age: 16
Trip For You
This trip is rated Activity Level 2 (Easy & Moderate). For more information on our trip gradings please visit the Activity Level Guidelines page. If you have any queries about the difficulty of the trip please do not hesitate to contact us.
It includes three-and-a-half days’ sightseeing with visits to areas of natural beauty.
Northern Lights: We are pleased to say most of our groups see the aurora in some form, but as it is a natural phenomenon, we cannot guarantee what you will see. However, according to the latest solar activity reports, it’s thought that 2024 and 2025 are going to be particularly good years for seeing the Northern Lights.
We give ourselves the best chance of seeing them by choosing locations and times based on the latest information. We will not go out every night, instead we monitor conditions and reports on the geomagnetic activity to see where and when excursions may be successful.
Our accommodation in the east is fairly remote, so is well placed when skies are clear. If the lights are visible here, it is likely we can simply see them from the viewing terrace of our hotel.
Other excursions: We also venture out onto a glacier equipped with a helmet, ice axe and crampons, sticking to flat sections of the ice. This experience is very accessible and designed for all abilities. To make the most of this trip you do not need previous experience, but a reasonable level of fitness is recommended.
Please note, Iceland has become hugely popular in recent years and you may find some of the main sites rather busy at certain times.
Weather and seasonality: Icelandic weather is unpredictable. Please come prepared for cold, wet and windy conditions. As this trip runs from October to March, daylight hours will vary depending on departure date, from around five hours in January to 10 hours in March. Outside of daylight there are twilight hours, particularly before sunrise, when there is enough light to see by. Naturally, the Aurora will not be visible during daylight, but March has some of the best opportunities to see the Northern Lights (close to the spring equinox).
Please note that, on occasion, severe weather can affect our ability to undertake some of the outdoor activities and we cannot rule out changes to the itinerary for these reasons. Any such decisions would always be taken with the safety of the group in mind. We always endeavour to provide suitable alternatives in this instance.
Drives: We cover a lot of ground and, as such, have a few long drives. We make frequent photo stops to admire the spectacular landscapes.
Eating Drinking
All breakfasts are included. There are several different lunch stops, which we believe fit well with the itinerary, such as the cafe near the Skogafoss waterfall. In the east of Iceland, we stop at local restaurants for dinner.
In Reykjavik, there are plenty of restaurants to cover all tastes and budgets. Traditional Icelandic dishes consist of salmon, cod, lamb and puffin. The old town cafes are particularly cosy, packed with comfy chairs and antique furniture, with wonderful selections of coffees, cakes and treats.
Vegetarian and vegan options are generally available, although in the east of Iceland these may be more limited than in Reykjavik. If you follow a restricted diet of any kind, please expect options to be limited.
Transportation
We use a comfortable, heated minibus, well adapted to the changing terrain, for all transport on this tour. Airport transfers are on the Flybus service.
Joining Instructions
Key information
Recommended arrival time: You can arrive at any time today. There will be a welcome briefing in the evening, but if you miss it the leader will update you separately
Airport: Keflavik Airport (KEF)
Airport transfers
The start hotel is approximately 45 to 60 minutes’ drive from the airport. Prior to travel, all clients will receive a Flybus voucher, which must be exchanged at the Flybus counter inside the airport or on the first bus for two tickets – one to the hotel and another back to the airport.
Flybus offer bus transfers throughout the day and make stops at various city hotels including our start hotel. You will need to change bus at the Reykjavik bus terminal to continue your journey to the start hotel. You will receive further details in your Final Joining Instructions.
Why Flybus?
We use FlyBus so you have full flexibility to choose the flight times that work best for you. This also means we avoid adding to the road traffic and carbon emissions by having a private bus meet our groups. It is the most cost effective and responsible way to transfer from Keflavik Airport to Reykjavik. If you prefer to be met by a taxi, this can be arranged at an additional cost. Contact your sales representative for more detail
If you would like further information on joining this trip, please speak to your sales representative.
Weather Information
Iceland has a notoriously fickle climate and on any winter day you may experience sunshine alternating with short or long showers of snow, sleet or rain. Away from the coast, in most winters, there is good snow cover for much of the season. Average daytime temperatures in Reykjavik are 0C to -5C (32F to 23F). In the interior, it can be several degrees colder, and in windy weather, which is common, the windchill factor can be significant.
Spending Money
Though there is not much free time on this itinerary, your leader can offer advice on optional activities.
The Blue Lagoon is a popular destination close to both Reykjavik and Keflavik Airport. Depending on your flight times, you may be able to visit on your arrival or departure day. Destination Blue Lagoon offers packages with transfers between Reykjavik, the Blue Lagoon and Keflavik Airport. Book direct at www.destinationbluelagoon.is or speak to your sales representative for more information.
For the meals not included, guide prices are as follows:
— Lunch: 3,000-4,000 Icelandic krona (US$22-US$29) — Evening meal in Reykjavik: 4,000-8,000 krona (US$29-US$57), not including drinks. — Evening meal at Hotel Laki: This is the only option in the area. There is an extensive buffet and the cost is approximately 7,000 krona (US$50), not including drinks. — Drinks:
— Beer: 900-1,500 krona (US$6.40-US$10.65) — Soft drinks: 400 krona (US$2.85) — Wine: 3,500 krona a bottle (US$25) or 1,800 krona (US$12.80) a glass
Tipping
Tipping is not a big part of Icelandic culture. However, should you wish to leave a tip for your tour leader, we recommend approximately 2,630 krona per person. This is a guide and entirely at your discretion.
Highlights
— Journey across southern Iceland with an expert tour leader in search of the Northern Lights — Stay in the countryside, where dark skies improve aurora displays — Complete the Golden Circle of Gullfoss Waterfall, Geysir and Thingvellir National Park — Marvel at the Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss waterfalls — See the brilliant blue ice of Falljokull on a glacier walk — Walk among great ice bulks on the black volcanic sands of Diamond Beach
Trip Details
Product Code: 4253
Tour Type: Small Group
Accommodation: Moderate
Transport: service.
Guide Language: English
Supplier Code: CZT
Starts: Reykjavik, Iceland
Finishes: Reykjavik, Iceland
Duration: 5 days
Departures: Guaranteed
Physical rating:
Unknown
Includes
— All breakfasts — All accommodation (see accommodation section) — All transport and listed activities — Tour leader throughout — Airport shuttle bus transfers for everyoneAccommodation
Hotels Klettur or Cabin and Hotel LakiWe aim to use hotels that provide good value for money (in Icelandic terms) along with a comfortable experience. In Reykjavik, we either stay at Hotel Klettur or Hotel Cabin, depending on availability. Hotel Klettur The property is approximately 15 minutes’ walk from the main shopping street, Laugavegur, so it’s easy to enjoy the cafes, bars and restaurants of the capital. If you’d prefer to relax at the hotel, there’s a ground-floor bar serving Icelandic beers and cocktails (look out for the happy hour from 5pm to 8pm) and a games room with a pool table and Northern Lights selfie wall. Hotel Cabin Hotel Cabin offers the same standard of accommodation and facilities, but is approximately 2,625ft (800m) further from the city centre. It also has a bar serving Icelandic beers and cocktails (with a happy hour on draft beer from 4pm to 6pm). Hotel Laki Within the rugged countryside, this 64-room hotel is ideally placed for spotting the Northern Lights. The property is run by farmers-turned-hoteliers Salome and Hörður. Their restaurant uses suppliers that pay a fair price to farmers and serves locally sourced, seasonal produce. It also offers expansive views over the countryside, meaning guests can eat their food while gazing over Vatnajökull glacier or the Northern Lights when they come. Each room has a garden view plus a kettle should you wish to stay up late with a hot drink.
Price
Price per person: (Double Occupancy) CAD 3230 (CAD 646 /day)
Itinerary
Our tour begins at our hotel in Reykjavik in the late afternoon. The compact capital of Iceland is well worth exploring, and we strongly recommend a couple of extra days before or after your tour. We have a welcome briefing this evening, usually around 6.30pm, and our groups typically go out for dinner together after. If you’re itching to see the Northern Lights, you may wish to visit the waterfront, which is away from the main city lights. Speak to your tour leader beforehand, who can check the latest scientific data relating to the solar activity. Accommodation: Hotel Klettur or Hotel Cabin (or similar)
Leave Reykjavik, driving east along the scenic southern highway. Our first stop is Seljalandsfoss, a 195ft (60m) high waterfall with fantastic ice features in winter. We can walk behind the cascade, providing conditions are not too icy. Suitable footwear is a must; however, the leader carries ice grips that can be put over standard walking boots to increase grip in slippery conditions. We continue through starkly beautiful countryside to an area impacted by the 2010 eruption of the Eyjafjallajökull volcano. Then journey along the coast, visiting the Skógafoss waterfall, a 195ft (60m) drop that falls in an 80ft (25m) wide sheet. If there is time, we drive to the most southerly point in Iceland, the Dyrhólaey peninsula, to enjoy coastal views north to Mýrdalsjökull glacier and south to the Reynisdrangar black lava sea stacks. If conditions allow, we see the sea stacks at a closer proximity from Reynisfjara black beach. The final part of our journey takes us across the black expanse of the Myrdalssandur floodplains, created by the river that formed after the eruption of a volcano under the Mýrdalsjökull Glacier. Our accommodation for the next two nights is Hotel Laki, just outside the small village of Kirkjubaejarklaustur. Thanks to our countryside location, we can step outside this evening and track the Northern Lights. We know from experience that if the Northern Lights do display tonight, we can see them from the hotel! Accommodation: Hotel Laki (or similar)
We set out across Skeidararsandur, a vast sand plain with wavy rivers, to the Falljokull glacier. Upon arrival, we walk to an accessible section, strap on crampons, grab ice axes, and walk on the glacier. The terrain is not challenging and even those with no similar experience should pick it up quickly. The glacier offers fantastic photo opportunities with walls of brilliant blue ice thousands of years in the making. Please note, weather and road conditions determine whether the glacier walk is possible and how long the transfer/walk to the glacier will be. In good conditions, the walk may be 15 minutes; in poorer conditions, the walk may be up to one hour. Your itinerary will be adjusted accordingly. After the return hike, we travel to the beautiful Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon, created in the 1950s as the glacier retreated from the coastline, leaving a 985ft (300m) deep, 8sqmi (20sqkm) lake studded by icebergs. On Diamond Beach, we walk among large chunks of ice washed up on the black volcanic sand, creating beautiful shapes and formations. The drive back to the hotel is approximately 90 minutes (80mi/125km). We get back outside again this evening to search once more for the Northern Lights with the help with our expert tour leader. Accommodation: Hotel Laki (or similar)
We return along the south coast then head inland via Hvolsvöllur. We stop for lunch then head to the mighty Gullfoss waterfall, one of the most powerful waterfalls in Europe. We also visit Geysir, home to the inimitable hot spouts. The most reliable eruption comes from Strokkur and occurs every five to 10 minutes, firing jets of hot water and steam 100ft (30m) into the air, a spectacle not to be missed. Our final stop before returning to Reykjavik is Thingvellir National Park, where the first democratic parliament in the world sat in 930. It was not until 1798, that it moved to the capital. Thingvellir is also the site of the rift valley marking the Mid-Atlantic Ridge, where the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates are pulling apart, causing an area around 4mi (7km) to literally sink into the earth. Tonight, take the opportunity to wander outside on your own one last time and maybe catch a glimpse of the magical Northern Lights. Accommodation: Hotel Klettur or Hotel Cabin (or similar)
Our trip ends with a Flybus transfer to Keflavik Airport. Your leader will not accompany you on the Flybus; however, you are provided with a number to call for assistance, should it be needed. If you have time, you may wish to explore Reykjavik, visiting one of the local thermal pools or the Blue Lagoon (see the Extra Expenses & Spending Money section of the Trip Notes for details). Alternatively, you may wish to extend your stay and learn more about this incredible country. Please ask your sales representative about pre- and post-tour nights.
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Tour Operator
Exodus Travel
It’s all about adventure That is what Exodus was founded upon 50 years ago, and what the company is still all about. Discovering countries, cultures, environments, cities, mountain ranges, deserts, coasts and jungles; exploring this amazing planet we all live on. At Exodus, we know what makes you tick when it comes to holidays. It’s a desire shared by so many others. A yearning to visit new places and come home with a real sense of what they’re all about. This means delving into local traditions, cultures, cuisine, lifestyles – anything that contributes to its unique identity. At the same time, we always remember that we are only guests. So we travel courteously and respectfully, in smaller groups to minimise our impact, to ensure that every Exodus holiday is a beneficial experience for everyone involved. This is a philosophy we take with us around the world, helping you reach some incredible destinations on 500 itineraries across over 90 separate countries. We also strive to provide as much flexibility and choice as we possibly can, making it simple for you to experience a very different holiday. Exodus started life on 4 February 1974 when two friends got together to provide an overland truck to travel to the Minaret of Jam, deep in the heart of the Hindu Kush, the most inaccessible of the world’s great monuments. See our history page for more details about how we began and how we have grown over the past 50 years. Never travelled with Exodus before? Visit our New to Exodus page for some useful, first-timer information.
In Business Since 1974
Reviews
Laura Waters - Traveled, March 2024
Wild and Wonderful A whistle stop tour through the extremes of Iceland’s landscape and weather! The itinerary is essentially waterfalls on day one, glaciers on day two and the ‘golden circle’ on day three. We had atrocious weather (lashing rain and 100mph winds) on day one so perhaps visiting three waterfalls wasn’t the best idea. They were very crowded and the weather made it impossible to really appreciate them. The glacier walk on the second day had to be abandoned due to high winds but not until after about an hour in the weather putting all the kit on and probably another hour attempting to get up the path. The northern lights are elusive and I found them disappointing – you can’t really see them with the naked eye, only through a camera lens set to the right exposure. We saw them on a separate bus tour on our last night in Reykjavik, not on the tour itself. Thankfully we had sunshine and calm for the last day. The landscape is beautiful and the food was delicious, if not all that varied. The long drives were broken up well with rest stops and road side sights. Most Inspirational Moment The huge icebergs in the glacial lagoon and on the nearby black sand beach. And our guide making us Icelandic gin and tonics by smashing up a piece of glacial ice from the beach with his ice pick when we were back at the hotel! Thoughts on Group Leader Oskar was great. He organised everything well, was really informative about Icelandic history and current events, and coped with some challenging weather and driving conditions with a great sense of humour. Advice for Potential Travellers Allow a lot of time to transfer from/to the airport via Flybus. It doesn't go direct to hotels but involves changing at a bus terminal in Reykjavik (my flight arrived at 7.45pm and I got to the hotel at 10pm.) Make sure your waterproofs are definitely waterproof, take thermal tips and bottoms, and hats, scarves, gloves and snoods - the wind is ferocious and very chilly. You don't need cash except to tip the guide at the end of the trip. Make sure you bring an adapter and a usb a cable - my usb c didn't work in any of the usb points in the hotels or airport and charging via the adapter was slow. Suggestions I would fly with Icelandair not a budget airline. Exodus booked me on easyJet flights (as I didn't want to fly from London) but it made checking in and everything else so difficult that I would book my own flights in future. (easyJet don't pay for airport services online check in was pointless and had to queue through the airport desks). Make sure you have a day or two in Reykjavik before or after the tour and try to get to one of the spas or swimming pools too.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 03/22/2024
Adam Fouracre - Traveled, March 2024
First time with Exodus and wow! Great tour guide, nice small and friendly group, great locations to explore and lucky enough to see the lights. Most Inspirational Moment Seeing the lights! They were phenomenal. Thoughts on Group Leader Really knowledgeable, friendly, funny and chilled. Advice for Potential Travellers Don’t delay! Want to try or do something then just do it. If it’s Iceland just remember the more layers you can get on the better! Never underestimate how cold and windy it can be. And definitely don’t forget good waterproofs! Even the top quality ones are often rubbish when it comes to waterfall spray! Suggestions First time solo traveling and with exodus. So pleased I got up the courage to go. First hotel could do with an update and was a little tired but other than that, cannot fault it.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 03/20/2024
sarah hodgkins - Traveled, March 2024
Iceland Great trip. Except the information re the fly is was incorrect. You have to change at the bus terminal to get to the hotel. It doesn’t go straight to the airport as I was told prior to going. Most Inspirational Moment Seeing the northern lights. Thoughts on Group Leader Brilliant.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 03/16/2024
Gareth B - Traveled, February 2024
The best of Iceland in 3 days The trip crams a lot into 3 full days, but doesn’t feel rushed. There’s plenty of amazing sights to see, including stunning waterfalls, black beaches, geysers and the highlight was walking on the glacier – we had perfect weather with blue skies! The tour is well thought-out, and despite there being a fair amount of driving, it doesn’t feel like there is due to the amazing scenery and comfortable transportation (plus everywhere we went in Iceland had 4G/5G phone signal). Advice for Potential Travellers Don't assume that you're going to see the Northern Lights, you're reliant on the weather playing ball, and it coinciding with solar activity. Unfortunately I didn't see them on this trip, however some of my fellow travellers who went out 1 day before had an amazing view - typical! I visited in mid-Feb, so there was a decent amount of daylight and darkness. Even without seeing them, it was a great trip with great people and included a wonderful landscape. Other than that, Iceland itself is pretty expensive, so factor that into your budgeting.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 03/03/2024
Kara Brown - Traveled, February 2024
Don’t just go to see the Northern Lights. Despite some clear skies the solar activity was low so we did not managed to see the Northern Lights on our tour in Feb 2024. Despite this there is lots packed into this short tour including seeing the sights of the so called Golden Circle (Gullfoss Waterfall; Geysir & Pingvellir) as well as the stunning glacier lagoon and black sand beaches. The highlight however was the walk on the glacier. The weather was perfect so we also managed to get into the ice cave. Most Inspirational Moment One truly unique sight on this tour was on the first morning, as we were leaving Reykjavik, the latest volcanic eruption had just started on the Reykjanes peninsula, so our guide took us to a vantage point on the outskirts of Reykjavik so we got a view of it ! Of the scheduled items on the itinerary the glacier walk was the highlight! Thoughts on Group Leader David was excellent. As well as doing all the driving he provided lots of insight into the Icelandic culture and commentary on the unique features of this amazing country. He went out of his way to show us the volcanic eruption on the first day of the tour as well as making sure we still fitted in everything on the scheduled itinerary! Advice for Potential Travellers I would say don’t go on this tour if your only reason is to see the Northern Lights. It is a natural phenomenon and can be quite difficult to see. However do go if you want to see all the other things on the itinerary. For me I would say that the glacier walk was the highlight. Suggestions Go for it !
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 02/27/2024
Carol Fagg - Traveled, February 2024
Trip name is a misnomer Had a brilliant holiday, saw so much, but the trip title is a misnomer. Not sure what the odds are of seeing the northern lights in 4 nights, but unlikely to be more than 50:50 Most Inspirational Moment Walking on a glacier Thoughts on Group Leader Very good Advice for Potential Travellers Go expecting to see lots, - but not necessarily the Northern lights. If you get them it's a bonus.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 02/28/2024
Nelly Walton - Traveled, February 2024
Feb 2023 Blizzard bombs, waterfalls and geological features Most Inspirational Moment The Glacial Walking was amazing. Such a brilliantt experience being able to walk on blue ice! The Blue Lagoon was also the highlight, though not included on the tour.It was snowy conditions and blizzard bombs, so white out's on the roads, and hit in the face with sleet in the lagoon. Some people wore bobble hats, but I kept putting my head under the water to warm up! the silica is not good for your hair though. We saw the Northern Lights from Lake in the East, but they were not green nor coloured, just very weak like whisky white clouds - it showed green on some people's phones and cameras. So a disappointment really. Thoughts on Group Leader Spot on. He was tops, knew in-depth interesting information about his country and was fun, energetic and charismatic. A great tour guide. Advice for Potential Travellers February is a dicey month to go. We landed after three attempts, the landings were a touch and go attempt and re-take off - given he incredibly strong blizzards, on arrival. The air stewardess said the previous week the aircraft doors could not be opened for 10 hours due to the winds, so something to bear in mind when you choose to go. It is amazing, but I was left disappointed to be honest. It's a lot of money for a bus tour manly of waterfalls. I asked the leader if it was possible to remove one of the three waterfalls and replace it with the Lava tunnels - to give more variety and he agreed it would be possible. So this is my suggestion. Suggestions Overall, weighing up the benefits of doing a tour or our own car rental was why we did the tour. It was much better to have an educated and interesting guide to see many different geological wonders and learn immense detail about the country, which we would not have had doing our own travels. It was more of a holiday having someone else driving too and changing locations.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 02/23/2024
Sally Ward - Traveled, January 2024
Northern Highlights You certainly pack a lot into this 5 day trip which delivered despite the ever changing winter weather. Our guide Oskar as flexible with the itinerary which meant that we were able to get the most out of each day. The highlight was the glacier walk and we even got a glimpse of the northern lights one night.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 02/06/2024
Jon Russell - Traveled, March 2022
Northern Lights A great trip to a fascinating country. The highlight was seeing the Northern lights outside the Hotel Laki (and briefly back in Reykjavik). The weather meant that there was clear skies and sunshine, so the views with the snow were excellent. (Which was a good job as there are some long road journeys). Most Inspirational Moment Seeing the Northern lights. Thoughts on Group Leader Jon was great, knew what he was doing, had an encyclopaedic knowledge of his country, and his Icelandic folk stories never ended! Advice for Potential Travellers Dont take any cash - Iceland is pretty much cashless now (and expensive). Do take lots of layers - it was minus 17 at Thingvellir after sunset. Be prepared to be in the vehicle quite a lot. Do go to the Blue lagoon on the way to the airport. Most flights are afternoon which gives time. (The taxi from Blue lagoon to Keflavik was 9000 kr, which we shared with someone else. There is a phone with direct line to a taxi firm in the blue lagoon) Consider adding a day or two in Reykjavik before or after the trip. Suggestions 1. The glacier walk is described as "We head to Svinafellsjokull...where we go for a short walk.". What it doesn't say is that there is more than an hour's walk to & from the glacier...making this a 3-4 hour trek!! My wife and a fellow traveller found it too much and I accompanied them back - spoiling one of the highlights of the trip. 2. The preparation for the glacier walk (crampons, helmets etc) could be done in the warmth of the hotel, not standing still in a cold car park for 45 minutes. 3. The drive back on "day 4" is about 5 hours - meaning the visits to Gulfoss, Geyser and Thingvellir are far too rushed. These are the major reasons people come to Iceland and do not need to be rushed. (By the time we got to Thingvellir it was after sunset, so the temperature meant no-one wanted to stand outside for long listening to the guide). Doing this first on the first day with the long drive at the end of the day would have been better. 4. The trip notes also mention a refund on the Flybus return ticket if it is not used. This is great as some people want to visit the Blue lagoon on the way to the airport. However the guide was un-aware of this and had to spend ages wandering round Reykjavik finding an ATM to give people refunds. (Giving an option for a one way Flybus ticket when booking would help).
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 03/27/2022
Stuart Picton - Traveled, February 2024
Lots to see. Recommend Lots to see. Weather very changeable. Hotel food very tasty (and very expensive- not just the beer). Recommend Most Inspirational Moment Seeing the NL. Big surprise but magical Thoughts on Group Leader Good. Very passionate. Not short of facts! Advice for Potential Travellers Prepare for very cold and changeable weather in winter. Prepare for expensive food. Prepare for amazing landscapes. Enjoy!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 02/22/2022
Stuart Picton - Traveled, February 2022
Lots to see. Recommend Lots to see. Weather very changeable. Hotel food very tasty (and very expensive- not just the beer). Recommend Most Inspirational Moment Seeing the NL. Big surprise but magical Thoughts on Group Leader Good. Very passionate. Not short of facts! Advice for Potential Travellers Prepare for very cold and changeable weather in winter. Prepare for expensive food. Prepare for amazing landscapes. Enjoy!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 02/20/2022
Robert Dale - Traveled, January 2022
Great Trip A very good trip with a great guide Jon and a good and friendly group of travellers. Most Inspirational Moment Walking the glacier and seeing the Northern Lights Thoughts on Group Leader Very good. A really nice man Advice for Potential Travellers The weather can affect your itinerary so be aware. Suggestions A hotel we stayed at (i think it was Laki) provided a three course buffet but charged for all three even if you didn't want them all. It made a single course very expensive!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 02/14/2022
Kate Mitchell - Traveled, January 2022
Northern Lights Completely amazing! This is a stunning trip in spite of the short day light hours. Each day there’s a new excitement and the glacier experience is awesome. Title is a bit of a misnomer; as long as you go with the mindset that seeing the NL is a bonus then you’ll be fine. Thank you Exodus. Most Inspirational Moment The walk on the glacier Thoughts on Group Leader Orre was great. Really kind and thoughtful and his passion for Iceland was abundant. Advice for Potential Travellers Seeing the Northern Lights is a bonus!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 01/23/2022
Nick Corble - Traveled, March 2019
Glacier Walk a Real 'Wow' Moment A filled and varied few short days in this interesting country. Most Inspirational Moment The glacier walk was the second 'wow' moment of the day, the first being the glacial lagoon earlier in the day. I hadn't quite anticipated how serious this was, and realised when we were being kitted up. The scenery, and sense of being so 'as one' with the forces of nature once actually on the ice, was awe-inspiring. This wasn't all though, with visits to various other natural wonders including the original geyser, and a number of waterfalls, plus, well, just the scenery. All this, plus tomato beer. What could go wrong? Thoughts on Group Leader Jon was an excellent guide, ready to fill us in on Icelandic sagas and the Icelandic way of life. Advice for Potential Travellers Definitely bring wet-weather gear (waterproof trousers a must). It can be a bit exposed out there and forecasts stating 2 degrees or whatever, do not take into account the wind chill. Layers is the answer. Suggestions I wonder if Exodus is missing a trick labelling this trip the Northern Lights? Although I knew beforehand there was a chance we might not see them, and had conditioned myself to this, there was never a chance we were going to see them given the weather, and I wonder how many groups do? What they all must do, is the glacier walk, and this more than made up for it. 'Glacier Walking with a chance of Northern Lights' might not be a snappy title, but probably more honest. Or just 'Natural Wonders of Iceland'?
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 04/21/2019
Phyllis Lampard - Traveled, November 2018
Fascinating taste of Iceland Our excellent guide Nico informed and amused us as we visited some very interesting features from geysers to a walk on a glacier! The iceberg added to the Icelandic gin was a brilliant idea for watchin* the northern lights! Thank you we will certainly visit again and see more of this beautiful country Most Inspirational Moment See above Thoughts on Group Leader See above Advice for Potential Travellers Take plenty of layers
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 12/20/2018
Nigel Bradshaw - Traveled, March 2017
Wet & wild! This is an extraordinary trip even if the Northern Lights are not visible, there is nowhere else so accessible that has such a fascinating and diverse landscape. The people are lovely and the food top quality. It is an expensive country however, additional food and drink and souvenirs are pricey. Most Inspirational Moment Walking on the glacier in crampons, ice axe and helmet and descending into its crevasses among 2000 year old ice was an amazing experience. The final morning was very well planned, starting out below ground in a lava tube then being taken straight to the Blue Lagoon prior to catching the flight home. Don't be put off by thinking that the Blue Lagoon is a tacky tourist trap - it's not, it's an amazing and relaxing end to the trip. Thoughts on Group Leader Orri was an exceptional leader, friendly, helpful and approachable, nothing was too much trouble for him. He kept us entertained with his stories of Icelandic history and folklore during the longer road sections. Advice for Potential Travellers Take plentry of layers and good quality warm and waterproof clothing, The weather is going to be both cold and wet and can change rapidly, if you are prepared for that then you will enjoy the trip all the more. Suggestions The northern lights may not make an appearance whilst there and some activities may be cancelled at short notice and another substituted due to the raw nature of the place, that is part of its appeal for me, keep an open mind and enjoy the experience.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 03/19/2017
Rebecca Cope - Traveled, March 2017
Fantastic trip to Iceland We had a fantastic trip to Iceland. A lot was fit into the few days that we were there but the itinerary was just right. There was quite a lot of driving but it was worth it to see all of the sights that we did and our group leader entertained us with tales of Iceland throughout the journey. I am already planning my next trip to Iceland to explore the country further! Most Inspirational Moment The glacier hike and the caving were my highlights. I'd also heard mixed reviews about the blue lagoon but I also loved this as it is so unique to Iceland. Thoughts on Group Leader Orri was a fantastic leader. Very warm and friendly and kept us entertained throughout. We couldn't fault him and he helped to make it a memorable trip. Advice for Potential Travellers Take plenty of layers! I'd also recommend spending at least one additional night in Reykjavik. It's a great place to spend time and is small enough to see plenty in one or two days. There isn't much spare time in the itinerary if you don't book additional nights. Suggestions The weather was very mixed whilst we were there from bright sunshine to snow. We only got to see the Northern lights very faintly on one of the evenings though due to lack of activity and cloud cover but it didn't matter. I would highly recommend.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 03/21/2017
Robert Butler - Traveled, February 2017
celand and it's rugged nature Yet again Exodus has given us a wonderful tour of a part of this great planet. Iceland has a great deal to offer for those that want to see a raw part of the world; from Glaciers to bathing in hot springs, to volcanoes and lava tubes. It is an easy trip to do if you have a low level of fitness but still want to cave or walk a glacier. As always, the choice of guide could not be faulted, he was fun and entertaining but went about everything in a professional way. Sadly we did not see the northern lights but nature is not always on demand, however this did not detract from a wonderful tour of the sights and sounds of Iceland. Well done Exodus. Most Inspirational Moment The Gullfoss falls absolutely fantastic sight. Thoughts on Group Leader Orri Sigurjonsson was outstanding as our leader and guide. He expertly explained the safety of walking on glaciers with crampons, and the wearing of caving equipment. Also when the van broke down with a puncture he organised a replacement coach to get us back to our hotel and in the night went back to fix the van with a mechanic, appearing bright and cheerful in the morning to continue our tour. Whilst travelling he told wonder stories of Trolls and Elves who live in the rocks of Iceland. Well done Orri. Advice for Potential Travellers This is a trip where you will see and hear about Iceland and it's history and it's wonderful rugged beauty of various landscapes.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 02/21/2017
Anthony Forrester - Traveled, January 2017
Fantastic Iceland Break Although we were unable to see the Northern Lights due to the overcast conditions this did not detract from the fact that this was a real Icelandic experience that we thoroughly enjoyed. Excellent program of things do and see let by Orri our very enthusiastic, knowledgeable and friendly guide. His knowledge of Icelandic history and Icelandic tales added to the enjoyment of the trip. The variety of the program and timings meant that we had lots to do and see avoiding more busy times of the popular locations. The hotel Laki which we stayed in for two nights was especially nice and well located. Most Inspirational Moment The day that we did the glacier walk. Thoughts on Group Leader Orri was excellent and just made the trip all the more enjoyable. As above his knowledge and how he put that across was both entertaining and informative. He also kept a close eye on everyone to make sure that they were comfortable with the activities and enjoying themselves. Advice for Potential Travellers Don't worry too much about seeing the Northern Lights as there is so much more to see and do on this trip. They are just a bonus. Both the glacier walk and the cave walk provide experiences that you will not be likely to try again. Suggestions It was nice that we were in a small group of sixteen and that everyone got on well. Obviously there will always be differences on how much time people feel should be spent on each of the visits / activities.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 02/15/2017
Lesley Butler - Traveled, January 2017
A wonderful trip Although we weren’t lucky enough to see the Northern Lights, we saw so many great things that it didn’t really matter. Most Inspirational Moment The glacier walk was amazing; once I got over the thought that I wasn't going to slip on the ice (the crampons keep you on your feet), it was wonderful. Not to be missed. Thoughts on Group Leader Orri Sigurjonsson was a wonderful guide. He drove the minibus, guided us round southern Iceland, told us about the culture, history and people of the country with great knowledge, told us fairy tales of the trolls and dragons as well as feeding us chocolate, biscuits and crisps. He was funny and informative at the same time, an all-time good guy and he really made the trip special. Advice for Potential Travellers Don't worry that you'll feel disappointed if you don't see the lights, I'm sure you won't, there is so much else to see and do, especially if you've got a good guide with you. Suggestions I always say that it's a sign of a good guide and company if something goes wrong (in our case the minibus had a problem with one of the wheels) and it's sorted out quickly and efficiently. It was on our way back at the end of the day, thankfully, that the problem occurred. Orri not only arranged for another bus to take us back to the hotel, but while we were waiting kept us regaled with stories of trolls, which kept us amused and happy. He arrived back, smiling as usual, several hours later, having got the minibus fixed ready for the next day.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 02/28/2017
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