Scenic Iceland & the Northern Lights
Scenic Iceland & the Northern Lights
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Tour Overview
Seek the aurora borealis, gasp at Geysir's hot springs, chase the waterfalls of Skógafoss, and witness the magnificence of Hekla volcano.
Choice Highlights
- Choose between two carefully selected activities
- Reykjavik: Enjoy a flight-ride at the FlyOver, where the state-of-the-art technology and special effects showcase Iceland's spectacular scenery.
- Reykjavik: Visit the Perlan Museum and learn about the glaciers, volcanoes and the Northern Lights through interactive displays.
Top Rated Highlights
- Reykjavik: Witness nature's most spectacular light show, the Aurora Borealis.
- Skogafoss: Admire the majestic beauty of the Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss 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.
- 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.
- Reykjavik: Enjoy views of the Hraunfossar and Barnafoss waterfalls as you drive through glorious landscapes.
Make Travel Matter
Hellisheidavirkjun: Visit Iceland's geothermal heat and electric power station and learn about how this plant has helped Iceland achieve 70% of its energy consumption through renewable sources. This experience advances United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 7: Affordable and Clean Energy.
Authentic Dining
Reykjavik: Conclude your travels with dinner at a local restaurant with your fellow travellers.
Insight Choice
Reykjavik: Enjoy a flight-ride at the FlyOver, where the state-of-the-art technology and special effects showcase Iceland's spectacular scenery.
Reykjavik: Visit the Perlan Museum and learn about the glaciers, volcanoes and the Northern Lights through interactive displays.
Itinerary
Day 1: The Viking City of Reykjavík
Location: Reykjavík
Accommodation: Fosshotel Reykjavík.
Accommodation Name: Fosshotel Reykjavik
Welcome to Iceland. Join your Travel Director and fellow travellers for a pleasant evening of wine and canapés, enjoying the opportunity to get to know each other. Afterwards, search for the most spectacular show on Earth—the northern lights. See the breathtaking night sky illuminated by the aurora borealis in a vast spectrum of colours. Please note that sightings of this natural phenomenon cannot be guaranteed. ...more ...less
Day 2: South Shore Adventure to Vík Relaxed Start
Location: Hellisheidi, Seljalandsfoss, Skogafoss, Hekla, Eyjafjallajokull, Vik
Accommodation: Hotel Katla by Keahotels
Accommodation Name: Kría, Vik
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. Iceland is one of the most volcanically active regions on earth due to its unique geological position. On average, Iceland experiences a volcanic event every 5 years. See the magnificent volcanoes Hekla, the most active, and Eyjafjallajökull, which last erupted in 2010 disrupting air travel worldwide. Feel the heat at the Lava Centre to gain insight into Iceland's volcanic and earthquake activity. Arrive in the welcoming community of Vik, the southernmost village in Iceland with a population of about 300 and it is home to the iconic Reynisfjara black sand beach. Later, perhaps enjoy another chance to go in search of the mystical northern lights.
Day 3: The Golden Circle to Flúðir
Location: Gullfoss, Geysir, Friðheimar, Secret Lagoon
Accommodation: Stracta Hotel
Accommodation Name: The Hill, Flúðir
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Embark on a day of discovery along Iceland’s Golden Circle, the most famous scenic route in the country, taking in some of the stunning landmarks this magical place has to offer. Experience the mighty Gullfoss waterfalls, a picturesque two-tiered cascade and the Icelandic equivalent of Niagara Falls, before continuing on to the exploding hot springs at Geysir, one of the few places on earth where you can closely observe active geysers. Visit Friðheimar, a family-run vegetable farm specialising in tomatoes. Their principle is to cultivate tomatoes with optimum taste quality while maintaining eco-friendly standards. Explore their greenhouses and sample the sweet, unique flavour of their lovingly grown crop, all while learning about Icelandic greenhouse horticulture. Continue to Flúðir, a picturesque village, renowned for the Secret Lagoon (Gamla Laugin), Iceland's oldest geothermal pool.
Day 4: Thingvellir, Borgarnes and Húsafell Relaxed Start
Location: Thingvellir National Park, Borgarnes, Húsafell
Accommodation: Icelandair Hotel Hamar, Borgarnes.
Accommodation Name: Húsafell
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Your first visit today will be to Thingvellir National Park, a remarkable UNESCO World Heritage Site that lies on the Mid-Atlantic Ridge, 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 Center. Housed in one of the oldest buildings, this exhibition brings the story of the Settlement Era to life. Enjoy the views of the Hraunfossar and Barnafoss waterfalls, and Deildartunguhver, Europe's most powerful hot spring, as you traverse glorious landscapes before stopping at Sturlureykir Horse Farm, a local family-run breeding farm. Discover why Icelandic horses have two additional gaits than most other breeds and how their double-layered coat enables them to withstand Iceland's tough winters. The farm also features a natural hot spring, where geothermal water is used to bake rye bread underground. Savour the taste of this freshly baked rye bread, a family recipe for over 100 years.
Day 5: Reykjavík sightseeing Relaxed Start
Location: Reykjavík, Old Reykjavík, Höfði House, Hallgrímskirkja
Accommodation: Fosshotel Reykjavík.
Accommodation Name: Fosshotel Reykjavik
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, Perlan Museum, Reykjavik, Blue Lagoon
Accommodation: Fosshotel Reykjavík.
Accommodation Name: Fosshotel Reykjavik
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Explore Reykjavík 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, enjoy time at leisure in the city. Perhaps unwind in the mineral-rich waters of the Blue Lagoon, take a stroll along the striking coastline, or explore the vibrant cafes and boutiques of the capital. 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: Reykjavík, Keflavík Airport
Meals Included: Breakfast
It's time to say goodbye to the Land of Fire and Ice and your fellow travellers as your Icelandic adventure comes to an end after breakfast.
What's Included
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Activities
Choose between two carefully selected activities in Reykjavik: FlyOver Iceland or the Perlan Museum.
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Personal Radio Headsets
Personal radio headsets are provided to give you the freedom to wander during visits to famous highlights without missing any commentary.
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Hotel and Restaurant Tips
Hotel and restaurant tips are included, so you don't have to worry about how much to give or search for foreign currency.
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Porterage
Porterage is included, with your bags being carried and promptly delivered to your hotel door.
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Insight Flourish
From time to time, your Travel Director will delight you with an Insight Flourish, a local specialty representing the destination.
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Wi-Fi
Stay connected with complimentary coach and hotel Wi-Fi (where available).
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Transfers
Transfers are available at scheduled times if your arrival and/or departure flights are as per the itinerary start and end dates.
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Luxury Coach
Enjoy the comfort of Insight's luxurious, air-conditioned, 40-seat coach with double the standard legroom and onboard washroom.
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Hand Sanitizer
Hand sanitizer is freely available on board for you to use throughout the day.
What's Not Included
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Optional Experiences
Optional experiences such as the visit to the Blue Lagoon are not included and may be purchased separately.
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Flights
Flights to and from Iceland are not included.
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Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is not included and should be purchased separately.
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Personal Expenses
Personal expenses such as souvenirs, additional meals, and drinks are not included.
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Additional Transfers
Transfers outside the scheduled times or for additional nights' accommodation are not included and may be purchased separately.
Mode of Transport
Travel in style and comfort aboard Insight's luxurious, air-conditioned, 40-seat coach, featuring double the standard legroom and an onboard washroom. Transfers are available at scheduled times for arrivals and departures, ensuring a seamless travel experience throughout your Icelandic journey.
Accommodation
Stay in comfort at the Fosshotel Reykjavik, Hotel Katla by Keahotels in Vik, Stracta Hotel in Flúðir, and Icelandair Hotel Hamar in Borgarnes. Enjoy modern amenities and a welcoming atmosphere at each location, ensuring a relaxing retreat after your daily adventures.
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
- Explore a local farm and sample their sweet-tasting, homegrown tomatoes. Meet the family to learn about Icelandic horticulture and growing the tastiest tomatoes.
Meet the lovable horses of Iceland - the original Viking horses. 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. - Fridheimar: Meet a local family at their farm, sample homegrown tomatoes and learn about Icelandic horticulture and tomato cultivation.
- Borgarnes: Meet Icelandic horses and learn about their extra gaits and double-layered coat that enables them to withstand 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.
Summary
- Visit Hellisheiði Geothermal Power Plant
- Seek out the northern lights in the skies above.
- Visit the Lava Centre in Hvolsvollur • Geysir • Icelandic Settlement Centre in Borgarnes.
- City tour of Reykjavík, with a Local Expert.
- See Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss waterfalls • Hekla and Eyjafjallajokull volcanoes • Gullfoss waterfall • Hraunfossar waterfall • Reykholt • Parliamentary Plains in Thingvellir.
- Welcome Reception in Reykjavik • Celebration Dinner at a local restaurant in Reykjavik.
Check out our Q&As
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What activities are available in Reykjavik during the tour?
In Reykjavik, you can choose between experiencing the magic of Iceland on an exhilarating flight-ride at FlyOver, which uses state-of-the-art technology to show you Iceland's spectacular scenery, or visiting the Perlan Museum to learn about glaciers, volcanoes, and the Northern Lights through interactive displays. ...more ...less
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What is the MAKE TRAVEL MATTER experience included in the tour?
The MAKE TRAVEL MATTER experience includes a visit to Iceland's newest geothermal heat and electric power station, Hellisheidavirkjun. This plant has helped Iceland achieve 70% of the country's energy consumption through renewable energy sources, advancing United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 7: Affordable and Clean Energy. ...more ...less
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What unique dining experience is offered during the tour?
During the tour, you will have the opportunity to visit a family-run vegetable farm at Friðheimar, where you can explore their greenhouses and sample the sweet, unique flavor of their lovingly grown tomatoes. Additionally, you will savor freshly baked rye bread, a family recipe for over 100 years, at Sturlureykir Horse Farm. ...more ...less
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What are some of the natural wonders included in the itinerary?
The itinerary includes visits to several natural wonders such as the Gullfoss waterfalls, the famous spouting Geysir, the majestic Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss waterfalls, and the magnificent volcanoes of Hekla and Eyjafjallajökull. You will also have the chance to see the Hraunfossar and Barnafoss waterfalls and Deildartunguhver, Europe’s most powerful hot spring. ...more ...less
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What is the significance of Thingvellir National Park in the tour?
Thingvellir National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that lies on the Mid-Atlantic Ridge, where the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates meet. It is also the site of the first meeting of the Icelandic parliament, the Althing, which was founded in A.D. 930, making it the world's oldest parliament. ...more ...less
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What is the optional experience available at the Secret Lagoon?
The optional experience at the Secret Lagoon, or Gamla Laugin, offers a chance for pure relaxation. Established in 1891, it is Iceland’s oldest pool, inviting you to soak in its warm, natural waters.
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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.
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How long has the tour company been trading?
Since 1978.
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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.
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Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?
Yes
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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.
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What policies are in place for Covid-19?
Please contact us for latest COVID-19 policies
Reviews of this operator
Book with Confidence
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Low Deposit
Insight Vacations requires a minimum deposit of 200 GBP per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 90 days before departure.
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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.
Scenic Iceland & the Northern Lights
7 Days Starting and ending in Reykjavik, Iceland
Visiting: Reykjavík, Hellisheidi, Seljalandsfoss, Skogafoss, Hekla, Eyjafjallajokull, Vik, Gullfoss, Geysir, Friðheimar, Secret Lagoon, Thingvellir National Park, Borgarnes, Húsafell, Old Reykjavík, Höfði House, Hallgrímskirkja, Reykjavik, Perlan Museum, Reykjavik, Blue Lagoon ...more ...less
Tour operator:
Tour code:
W864M20
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Tour operated in:
EnglishInterests:
Cultural, Eco Conscious, Gardens & Nature Tours, Northern Lights, Polar
