Scenic Iceland & the Northern Lights - Small Group, Winter

Scenic Iceland & the Northern Lights - Small Group, Winter

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7 Days From

$7015

Scenic Iceland & the Northern Lights - Small Group, Winter

7 Days Starting and ending in Reykjavik

Visiting: Reykjavik, Hellisheidavirkjun, Seljalandsfoss, Skogafoss, Vik, Gullfoss Falls, Geysir, Fridheimar, Fludir, Hella, Thingvellir National Park, Borgarnes, Hraunfossar, Barnafoss

Tour operator:

Insight Vacations

Tour code:

SW864ZM19

Guide Type:

Fully Guided

Group size:

12 - 24

Physical rating:

Low

Age range:

5-99

Special diets catered:

Please Advise Request

Tour operated in:

English

Interests:

Polar

From: $7015

NB: Prices correct on 31-Oct-2024 but subject to change.

This tour is no longer available, please see similar tours below or send an enquiry

Tour Overview

Experience the iconic sights of Iceland as you gasp in awe at the exploding hot springs in Geysir and lose yourself in the Northern Lights dancing overhead in Reykjavik. From the thundering waterfalls of Skógafoss and the majesty of the Hekla volcano, to the allure of the Golden Circle and the earth shaking Mid-Atlantic Ridge, this one-week tour has it all. Uncover Iceland’s volcanic history at the Lava Centre en route to Vik, visit a geothermal bakery in Fontana where fresh bread is dug out of the hot ground before your very eyes and hone your horticulture skills at the massive greenhouse tomato farms in Friðheimar. Discover how Iceland was settled at a fascinating exhibit in Borgarnes and conclude your tour with a Local Expert in Old Reykjavik, as they guide you through the capital.

Highlights

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    Choice Highlights

    • Choose between two carefully selected activities
    • Reykjavik: Experience the magic of Iceland on an exhilarating flight-ride at FlyOver. This seated ride combines state-of-the-art technology and special effects to show you Iceland's spectacular scenery, it really feels like you are flying!
    • Reykjavik: Experience the natural wonders of Iceland on a visit to the Perlan Museum. Learn about glaciers, volcanoes and the Northern Lights through interactive displays.

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    Top Rated Highlights

    • Reykjavik: Witness nature's most spectacular light show, the Aurora Borealis.
    • Skogafoss: Admire the majestic beauty of these two impressive waterfalls.
    • Hvolsvollur: See the magnificent volcanoes of Hekla and Eyjafjallajokull.
    • Gullfoss Falls: The spectacular two-tiered waterfall, the Icelandic equivalent of Niagara falls, drops a total of 32 metres, while spanning the entire width of the Hvítá River.
    • Geysir: Visit the famous spouting Geysir which has become synonymous with hot springs all around the world.
    • Fludir: The Secret Lagoon natural hot springs are located in the small village of Flúðir and maintain a temperature of 38-40°C year-round due to their location in the Golden Circle. The pool's natural surroundings and the steam rising from the water create a magical atmosphere, offering a truly authentic Icelandic experience.
    • Thingvellir National Park: The Parliamentary Plains are the most important historic site in the country, as the meeting place of the Althing, the world's oldest parliament that was founded in A.D. 930.
    • Reykjavik: Enjoy views of the Hraunfossar and Barnafoss waterfalls as you drive through glorious landscapes.
    • Reykjavik: Explore the city. See the old town centre, the parliament building, Hofði House, the colourful harbour and the Hallgrímskirkja.

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    Make Travel Matter

    Hellisheidavirkjun: Visit Iceland's newest geothermal heat and electric power station, the second largest of its kind in the world. Hear about how this plant has helped Iceland achieve 70% of the country's energy consumption through renewable energy sources. This experience advances United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 7: Affordable and Clean Energy.

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    Authentic Dining

    Reykjavik: This evening, delight in a delicious dinner at a local restaurant where you round off your journey through one of the world's most naturally beautiful places.

  • content:

    Insight Choice

    Reykjavik: Experience the magic of Iceland on an exhilarating flight-ride at FlyOver. This seated ride combines state-of-the-art technology and special effects to show you Iceland's spectacular scenery, it really feels like you are flying!

    Reykjavik: Experience the natural wonders of Iceland on a visit to the Perlan Museum. Learn about glaciers, volcanoes and the Northern Lights through interactive displays.

Itinerary

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Day 1: The Viking City Of Reykjavík

Location: Reykjavik

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: Fosshotel Reykjavík

Welcome to Iceland. At Reykjavík's Keflavík Airport, you will be welcomed and transferred to your hotel. Join your Travel Director and traveling companions at 18:15 for your Welcome Reception and enjoy the opportunity to get to know each other, over a pleasant evening of wine and canapés. Afterwards, search for the most spectacular show on Earth— the northern lights. See the breathtaking night sky filled with the aurora borealis and its vast spectrum of color. Please note the northern lights are a natural phenomenon and therefore sightings cannot be guaranteed.

Day 2: South Shore Adventure To Vík Relaxed Start

Location: Reykjavik, Hellisheidavirkjun, Seljalandsfoss, Skogafoss, Vik

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: Katla by Keahotels

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

Take a journey through the stunning landscape of Iceland's south coast and through the land of Njál‘s Saga–a region of breathtaking scenery and legendary stories. Join a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience, heading east to visit Iceland’s newest geothermal and electric power station at Hellisheiðavirkjun Your journey continues, as you witness the majesty of Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss. Stand awestruck by the beauty of these thundering waterfalls, before venturing on to view more spectacular phenomena. See the magnificent Hekla and Eyjafjallajökull volcanoes.  Arrive in the welcoming community of Vík. Later, perhaps enjoy another chance to go in search of the mystical northern lights?

Day 3: The Golden Circle To Hella

Location: Vik, Gullfoss Falls, Geysir, Fridheimar, Fludir, Hella

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: Stracta, Hella

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

Embark on a day of discovery around Iceland's Golden Circle, taking in some of the famous landmarks this magical country has to offer. Experience the mighty Gullfoss waterfalls - the Icelandic equivalent of Niagara Falls, before continuing on to the exploding hot springs at Geysir. Next stop is Friðheimar, to learn about Icelandic greenhouse horticulture. Visit a family-run vegetable farm, specialising in tomatoes. Explore their greenhouses and sample the sweet, unique flavour of their lovingly grown crop. Last stop will be your chance to relax in the Secret Lagoon, known locally as Gamla Laugin, which is the oldest swimming pool in Iceland since 1891.

Day 4: Thingvellir And Borgarnes Relaxed Start

Location: Hella, Thingvellir National Park, Borgarnes, Hraunfossar, Barnafoss, Borgarnes

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: Hamar, Borgarnes

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

First visit today will be Thingvellir National Park, this remarkable UNESCO World Heritage Site lies on the Mid-Atlantic Ridge line, where the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates meet. The first meeting of the Icelandic parliament was held here in A.D. 930. Journey along the trail of Viking warrior and poet Egill Skallagrímsson. In Borgarnes, learn about Iceland's history with a fascinating visit to the Icelandic Settlement Centre. Continue with a stop at Sturlureykir horse breeding farm that is run by a local family. The farm has a natural hot spring, and the hot water is used to bake rye bread underground. Enjoy a taste of this freshly baked rye bread, a family recipe for over 100 years. Enjoy views of the Hraunfossar and Barnafoss waterfalls as you drive through glorious landscapes. Your travels continue to Deildartunguhver, Europe's most powerful hot spring, before dining at your hotel this evening.

Day 5: Reykjavík Sightseeing Relaxed Start

Location: Borgarnes, Reykjavik

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: Fosshotel Reykjavík

Meals Included: Breakfast

Journey back to the Icelandic capital and see Old Reykjavík, the 19th-century parliament building and Höfði House. In 1986, US President Ronald Reagan and Soviet Premier Mikhail Gorbachev met here for the famous Reykjavík Summit. Later, visit the colourful harbour and the iconic Hallgrímskirkja, the largest modern church in Iceland, standing 74.5 metres tall and visible from almost anywhere in  the city.  The afternoon is at your leisure.

Day 6: Reykjavik Your Way Relaxed Start

Location: Reykjavik

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: Fosshotel Reykjavík

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

Explore Reykjavik with Insight Choice. Choose to experience the magic of Iceland on an exhilarating flight-ride at FlyOver to see incredible scenery from sweeping glaciers to stunning fjords. Alternatively, visit the Perlan Museum with the Wonders of Iceland, one of a kind exhibition to experience Iceland´s natural beauty. This afternoon, you may choose to unwind in the mineral-rich waters of the Blue Lagoon (or a comparable location) on our optional experience, subject to seasonal availability. Surrounded by lava fields and snow-capped mountains, the lagoon is a wonder of nature and offers a unique experience for both body and soul. With your newfound friends, toast to the culmination of your fascinating journey of discovery during dinner at a local restaurant.

Day 7: Farewell Reykjavík

Location: Reykjavik

Meals Included: Breakfast

Your Icelandic adventure comes to an end, with a transfer to Reykjavík's Keflavík Airport.

What's Included

  • Meals

    6 Breakfasts, 3 Dinners, and 1 Dinner with Wine are included.

  • Accommodation

    Accommodation at Fosshotel Reykjavik, Hotel Kria, Fludir Icelandair, and Hotel Husafell is included.

  • Transportation

    Transfers to and from Reykjavik's Keflavik Airport are included.

  • Guided Tours

    Guided tours of Reykjavik, Thingvellir National Park, and the Icelandic Settlement Centre in Borgarnes are included.

  • Sightseeing

    Visits to Seljalandsfoss, Skogafoss, Hekla and Eyjafjallajokull volcanoes, Gullfoss Falls, Geysir, and the Northern Lights are included.

  • Cultural Experiences

    Visits to the Perlan Museum, Fridheimar farm, and a local horse breeding farm are included.

  • Special Activities

    Choose between an exhilarating flight-ride at FlyOver or a visit to the Perlan Museum.

  • Celebration Dinner

    A Celebration Dinner at a local restaurant in Reykjavik is included.

What's Not Included

  • Optional Experiences

    Optional visit to the Blue Lagoon is not included.

  • Personal Expenses

    Personal expenses such as souvenirs, additional meals, and drinks are not included.

  • Travel Insurance

    Travel insurance is not included and is recommended to be purchased separately.

  • Flights

    International and domestic flights to and from Iceland are not included.

  • Gratuities

    Gratuities for guides, drivers, and hotel staff are not included.

Dining Summary

  • 6 Breakfast (B)
  • 4 Dinner (D)

Additional Included Highlights

  • Personal radio headsets give you the freedom to wander during visits to famous highlights, without missing any of your Local Expert's fascinating commentary.
  • Hotel and restaurant tips are included - you'll never have to worry about how much to give, nor search for foreign currency. We also include all taxes and porterage charges at hotels.
  • We carry your bags for you and promptly deliver them to your hotel door.
  • From time to time, your Travel Director will delight you with an Insight Flourish, which is a local specialty representing the destination.
  • Stay connected with friends and family with our complimentary coach and hotel Wi-Fi (where available).
  • If your arrival and/or departure flights are as per the itinerary start and end dates, then transfers are available at scheduled times. If your flights are outside these times, or you have booked additional nights accommodation with Insight Vacations, you may purchase transfers or make your own way from/to the airport.

Insight Experiences

  • Fridheimar: Explore a local farm and sample their sweet-tasting, homegrown tomatoes. Meet the family to learn about Icelandic horticulture and growing the tastiest tomatoes, all the while respecting the surrounding nature.
  • Borgarnes: Meet the lovable horses of Iceland - the original Viking horses and vital servants of the first Icelanders to arrive in this vast, wild county. Learn why they have two more gaits than most other breeds of horses, and how their double-layered coat enables them to withstand Iceland's tough winters.

Well-being

  • Enjoy the comfort of Insight's luxurious, air-conditioned, 40-seat coach with double the standard legroom and onboard washroom. Our customized luxury coaches are sanitized before the start of your tour and are maintained to very high standards. Physical distancing measures have been implemented on our customized luxury coaches.
  • Hand sanitizer is freely available on board for you to use throughout the day.

Check out our Q&As

  • What kind of activities can I choose from in Reykjavik?

    In Reykjavik, you can choose to experience the magic of Iceland on an exhilarating flight-ride at FlyOver to see incredible scenery from sweeping glaciers to stunning fjords. Alternatively, you can visit the Perlan Museum with the Wonders of Iceland exhibition to experience Iceland's natural beauty.

  • Will I have the opportunity to see the Northern Lights during this tour?

    Yes, there are multiple opportunities to see the Northern Lights during this tour. On the first night in Reykjavik, you will search for the Northern Lights. Additionally, there are chances to see them in Vík and Flúðir.

  • What unique experiences are included in the tour?

    The tour includes several unique experiences such as visiting Iceland's newest geothermal and electric power station at Hellisheidavirkjun, exploring a family-run vegetable farm specializing in tomatoes at Friðheimar, and visiting a local family-run Sturlu Reykir horse breeding farm where you can taste freshly baked rye bread made using a natural hot spring.

  • What are some of the natural wonders I will see on this tour?

    You will see several natural wonders including the Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss waterfalls, the Hekla and Eyjafjallajökull volcanoes, the Gullfoss waterfalls, the Geysir hot springs, and the Hraunfossar and Barnafoss waterfalls.

  • Is there any free time during the tour?

    Yes, there is free time during the tour. For example, on Day 5 in Reykjavik, the afternoon is at leisure for you to explore the city on your own.

  • What kind of meals are included in the tour?

    The tour includes 6 breakfasts, 3 dinners, and 1 dinner with wine.

  • What kind of accommodation can I expect during the tour?

    You will stay in various hotels including Fosshotel Reykjavik, Hotel Kria, Fludir Icelandair, and Hotel Husafell.

  • What historical sites will I visit on this tour?

    You will visit several historical sites including Thingvellir National Park, the site of the world's oldest parliament founded in A.D. 930, and the Icelandic Settlement Centre in Borgarnes.

  • Is there an option to visit the Blue Lagoon?

    Yes, there is an optional experience to visit the Blue Lagoon, where you can enjoy the mineral-rich waters surrounded by lava fields and snow-capped mountains.

  • Can I join the tour once it has departed?

    We regret that no refunds can be made for absences from a tour, including experiences such as missed meals or sightseeing.

  • How long has the tour company been trading?

    Since 1978.

  • What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?

    Insight Vacations is a founding member of the TreadRight Foundation, a joint initiative created by the brands within The Travel Corporation (TTC) almost 15 years ago to ensure our impact through tourism is positive. Our ethos to #MakeTravelMatter guides our decision-making at every level of our business.

  • Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?

    Yes

  • Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?

    You have two options as a solo traveller. Either choose to be matched with a same sex partner for a room share - at no extra cost. Or choose a room of your own with a reduced or even free private room upgrade on select tours.

  • What policies are in place for Covid-19?

    Please contact us for latest COVID-19 policies

Reviews of this operator

Peggy Lindenborn  

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02-Nov-2021

Country Roads of Southern Italy and Sicily is a delightful trip and our travel guides and driver, Enzo, Chris and Greg were amazing and made the trip very memorable. We saw so many places and had great experiences along the way! Thanks to them for such a wonderful vacation.!

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Trusted Customer  

Best of Spain & Portugal

11-Jan-2023

Great itinerary, good pace, tour director was friendly and very knowledgeable and organised. Bus was very spacious and driver was great. Yes would recommend insight to friends and families

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Jacqueline Thornberry  

Scenic Iceland and the Northern Lights

31-Oct-2021

The number is our group was small which meant we got to know each other. Our tour guide, Laura Spiers, was excellent as was our driver. The food was good, and of course everything we saw in Iceland was beautiful and educational.

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Kathryn Ronca  

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08-Nov-2021

The trip was fantastic. Everything was well planned and exceeded my expectations. All insight personal were courteous helpful and professional Ann Manual and Kevin were a topnotch team There was attention to every detail and at all times felt safe and always a personal touch to the trip. The motor coach was clean and roomy and there was multiple wipe downs during the day All hotels were top notch and all staff at the hotels and restaurants were helpful and courteous I would recommend this trip as it gave you a fantastic view of the natural wonders of the the West.

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Patrick Ong  

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This trip is absolutely amazing! Worth every Penny! Our Tour guide did not Disappoint.

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Sunday - Saturday

Nov 02, 2025 - Nov 08, 2025
$7015

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Feb 22, 2026 - Feb 28, 2026
$7155

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Mar 22, 2026 - Mar 28, 2026
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Book with Confidence

  • Low Deposit

    Insight Vacations requires a minimum deposit of 350 USD per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 90 days before departure.

  • Cancellation Policy

    We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of insight vacations charges.

    Up to 91 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.

    At 90 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.

    At 29 days before tour starts: Forfeit 80% of booking price.

    At 1 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.

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