Northern Lights Escape

Northern Lights Escape

5,505 Views
6 Days From

$2635

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

Tour Overview

Gurgling hot springs, cascading waterfalls, extinct (and live) volcanoes and Europe’s biggest glacier – this is Iceland! On a six-day adventure, you’ll discover the raw natural beauty of this Nordic wonderland, getting up close to epic glacial sheaths, feeling the icy spray of the Gullfoss waterfall and becoming acquainted with the culture and cuisine of an Arctic island outpost unlike any other. Spend the days hiking, waterfall chasing and soaking in the gorgeous landscapes, and spend the nights searching for the Northern Lights – this is the north! ...more ...less

Highlights

  • Follow the scenic Golden Circle, visiting geothermal springs, colourful geysers and the mighty waterfall of Gullfoss.

  • Drive along the island’s spectacular South Shore, past the Reynisdrangar Rocks and volcanic black sand beaches.

  • Wander around the arts and dining scene of Reykjavik – you'll walk around the city's centre, old harbour and the famous Hallgrimskirkja church of Iceland's capital with your leader. Then, maybe check out the music scene or hang out at the pub.

  • Head to Skaftafell National Park and get adventurous with a hike to Vatnajokull – Europe's largest glacier!

  • Try to spot the Aurora Borealis – the best light show on Earth! Stay up late to see the northern sky dance with green light (subject to weather conditions and activity), with a local leader by your side to help you get the best opportunities.

Itinerary

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Day 1: Reykjavik

Reykjavik, Iceland
Reykjavik, Iceland

Location: Reykjavik

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: Hotel

Hallo! Welcome to Iceland. Your adventure begins in the world's northernmost capital of Reykjavik, just below the Arctic Circle. The city sees around four hours of sunlight a day in winter and 22 hours or more in summer. Surrounded by volcanic peaks and crystalline ocean, the city boasts a vibrant arts and nightlife scene. It’s recommended you arrive early and head to the National Museum, which depicts the history of Iceland from the 9th century, when the first Vikings from mainland Scandinavia arrived and settled. You could also chill with the locals at the Laugardalslaug Geothermal Pool. Tonight, maybe head out to dinner and get to know your new fellow travellers. ...more ...less

Day 2: Golden Circle / Hvolsvollur Area

Location: Golden Circle / Hvolsvollur Area

Accommodation: Guesthouse

Accommodation Name: Guesthouse

Meals Included: Breakfast

Depart Reykjavik early this morning and follow the route of the Golden Circle. Visit Pingvellir National Park – the site of Iceland's first parliament, founded in AD 930 and a geological wonder, where the American and Eurasian tectonic plates are pulling apart. If you notice a big ridge of water in the landscape, you’re probably looking at the Silfra fissure! Next, head to Iceland's Geysir geothermal area, where you'll see the Strokkur geyser shoot water 30 m into the air. Witness the sheer power of the Gullfoss Waterfall (also known as Golden Falls) before continuing to the Hvolsvollur Valley, where you'll spend the night on an Icelandic farm that’s been converted into a guesthouse. Far away from the city lights, the guesthouse is an ideal base to try and spot the Northern Lights. If the skies are clear tonight, why not take a stroll out into the snow and look skywards for the dancing green lights.

Included Activities:
-Golden Circle - Thingvellir National Park
-Golden Circle - Strokkur Geysir
-Golden Circle - Gullfoss Waterfall

Optional Activities:
-Fludir - Secret Lagoon

Day 3: South Coast / Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon

Location: South Coast / Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon

Accommodation: Guesthouse

Accommodation Name: Guesthouse

Meals Included: Breakfast

Start the day with a trip to the Skogafoss waterfall – one of the biggest waterfalls in Iceland, Skogafoss is 25 m wide and drops 60 m. To get close, maybe climb the long, windy set of stairs up to the scenic viewpoint. On a sunny day, you should be able to spot a rainbow or two in the spray. Continue along Iceland's South Shore to take in more of the country’s renowned natural wonders. From the stepping-stone rock formations of Reynisdrangar, the promontory of Dyrholaey, and the night black sand beach of Reynisfjara, this is one of the country's most scenic regions. This afternoon, visit the famous Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon – a sea of floating icebergs whose blue contrast with the charcoal sands of the beach. Stop for the night at a farm stay on the South Coast. Weather permitting, there will be another opportunity to step outside and witness the natural wonders of the Northern Lights tonight.

Included Activities:
-Jokulsarlon - Glacier Lagoon
-Skogafoss - Waterfall Visit
-South Coast - Dyrholaey Viewpoint

Day 4: Vatnajokull Glacier / Vik

Location: Vatnajokull Glacier / Vik

Accommodation: Guesthouse

Accommodation Name: Guesthouse

Meals Included: Breakfast

Today, go for a hike on Europe's biggest ice cap, Vatnajokull, which has around 30 glaciers flowing out of it. The glacier is retreating due to rising world temperatures, and in a few years, the glacier may be gone. Alternatively, you can just walk to the glacier's tongue or return to the glacial lagoon at Jokulsarlon or Fjallsarlon. If you would prefer a more relaxing morning, you can explore the farm stay and head to the Thorbergur Centre. Later, journey to the black sand town of Vik. With the sea on one side and high cliffs on the other, this dramatically positioned village is Iceland's most southerly mainland settlement.

Included Activities:
-Vatnajokull - Glacier Hike

Day 5: Reykjavik

Reykjavik, Iceland
Reykjavik, Iceland

Location: Reykjavik

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: Hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast

Make your way to the beautiful waterfall of Seljalandsfoss, then it’s back to Reykjavik. When you arrive, take a short walk of the city, to the old harbour, the city centre and the famous Hallgrimskirkja Church. After, maybe browse some of the city's great art galleries. If you haven't seen the Northern Lights yet, you could head out of town to chase them again this evening, or head for a soak in the geothermal waters of the famous Blue Lagoon. Tonight, maybe gather your fellow adventurers and celebrate the end of the adventure with dinner.

Included Activities:
-Reykjavik - Leader-led walking tour

Optional Activities:
-Reykjavik - Settlement Exhibition
-Reykjavik - Saga Museum
-Reykjavik - Whales of Iceland Museum
-Reykjavik - Maritime Museum
-Reykjavik - Harpa Concert Hall - Free
-Reykjavik - Perlan Museum

Day 6: Reykjavik

Reykjavik, Iceland
Reykjavik, Iceland

Location: Reykjavik

Meals Included: Breakfast

There are no further activities scheduled after breakfast today and it’s time to say 'sjaumst'. If you'd like to extend your stay and book yourself on a Silfra Fissure snorkelling adventure, just get in touch with your booking agent ahead of time.

Optional Activities:
-Reykjavik - Silfra Fissure Snorkelling Day Trip inc return transfer from Reykjavik
-Nauthólsvík - Thermal Beach - Free
-Reykjavik - Lava Tunnel Tour
-Reykjanes Peninsula - Blue Lagoon inc return transfer

What's Included

  • Accommodation
    Guesthouse (3 nights), Hotel (2 nights)

  • Meals
    5 breakfasts

  • Golden Circle - Thingvellir National Park

  • Golden Circle - Strokkur Geysir

  • Golden Circle - Gullfoss Waterfall

  • Jokulsarlon - Glacier Lagoon

  • Skogafoss - Waterfall Visit

  • South Coast - Dyrholaey Viewpoint

  • Vatnajokull - Glacier Hike

  • Reykjavik - Leader-led walking tour

What's Not Included

  • Tipping and Gratuities

  • International Travel

  • Airport Transfers at Destination

Included Activities

  • Golden Circle - Thingvellir National Park
  • Golden Circle - Strokkur Geysir
  • Golden Circle - Gullfoss Waterfall
  • Jokulsarlon - Glacier Lagoon
  • Skogafoss - Waterfall Visit
  • South Coast - Dyrholaey & Reynisfjara Rocks
  • Vatnajokull - Glacier Walk
  • Reykjavik - Walking Tour

Transport

  • On this trip we are travelling in our own private minibus as this allows us to reach some more off the beaten path destinations and gives us flexibility which would not be possible by public transport. Please note that there are some long travel days and some rough stretches on gravelly and windy roads. On some days we depart early in the morning to ensure we optimise our time. All our vehicles in Iceland have complimentary Wi-Fi.

Accommodation

  • The style of accommodation indicated in the day-to-day itinerary is a guideline only and may change. On some occasions, alternative arrangements may need to be made due to the lack of availability of rooms in our preferred accommodation. In these cases, we will use a similar standard of accommodation.
  • Throughout the trip, we request that our properties prepare rooms in time for our arrival, especially if we're arriving prior to normal check-in time. However, this isn't always possible which means we won't be able to check-in immediately on arrival at some hotels. Instead, we can store our luggage and explore our new destination or on some trips, have use of shared day rooms until all rooms are available.
  • OCCASIONAL ALTERNATIVE ACCOMMODATION
  • The style of accommodation indicated in the day-to-day itinerary is a guideline. On rare occasions, alternative arrangements may need to be made due to the lack of availability of rooms in our usual accommodation. A similar standard of accommodation will be used in these instances.
  • TWIN SHARE BASIS
  • Accommodation on this trip is on a twin/multishare basis. We pair up solo travellers with another traveller of the same gender as per the gender marker on each of their passports. Please note there may be times where facilities will be shared rather than ensuite and rare occasions when you share a room with passengers travelling on different Intrepid trips than your own.
  • CHECK-IN TIME
  • Throughout the trip we request that our hotels prepare rooms in time for our arrival, especially if we're arriving prior to normal check-in time. However this isn't always possible which means we won't be able to check-in immediately on arrival at some hotels. Instead, we can store our luggage and explore our new destination.
  • PRE/POST TRIP ACCOMMODATION
  • If you've purchased pre-trip or post-trip accommodation (if available), you may be required to change rooms from your trip accommodation for these extra nights.
  • FACILITIES
  • Your accommodation may not always have private en suite facilities or air-conditioning. European hotels generally don't provide kettles or fridges.

Important Information

  • 1. A single supplement is available if you’d prefer not to share a room on this trip. The single supplement applies to all nights of your trip and is subject to availability. Please note that due to the small properties we use in Europe there is only a limited amount of single supplements available per trip departure. Please speak to your booking agent for further information.
  • 2. Iceland can be an expensive destination in many ways, from museum entrance fees to outdoor activities, but especially in terms of eating out. Your leader will be able to advise on how to save money. In remote areas the only option for dinner will be at the guesthouse we are staying at. Stock up on food at a supermarket prior to arrival if you would like to opt out eating at the guesthouse's restaurant. Please make sure you read the trip notes carefully in order to know what is and what isn't included in the trip price.

Mode of Transport

  • On this trip we are travelling in our own private minibus as this allows us to reach some more off the beaten path destinations and gives us flexibility which would not be possible by public transport. Please note that there are some long travel days and some rough stretches on gravelly and windy roads. On some days we depart early in the morning to ensure we optimise our time. All our vehicles in Iceland have complimentary Wi-Fi.

Check out our Q&As

  • Is this trip right for you

    The Northern Lights (also known as the Aurora Borealis) are a natural display of coloured lights in the night sky of the northern hemisphere. While Northern Light displays can never be guaranteed, as they are a natural phenomenon, you have a higher chance of seeing them in locations at high latitudes, such as Iceland. Please note that weather conditions and overall activity can affect visibility.

    Iceland can be an expensive destination in many ways, from museum entrance fees to visiting a cafe, but especially in terms of eating out. To provide you with an example, a main meal outside of Reykjavik can be around the ISK 4,500 mark. Your leader will be able to advise on how to save money. In remote areas the only option for dinner will be at the guesthouse we are staying at. Please stock up on food at a supermarket prior to arrival if you would like to opt out eating at the guesthouses' restaurants.

    Iceland can be extremely cold at this time of year. Please bring appropriate clothing for adverse weather conditions. There may be the rare occasion where your leader has to alter the itinerary and activities due to the weather which can cause roads being blocked, sites closure etc. Your leader will discuss the necessary changes and alternatives where possible.

    Due to the remote locations we visit, there are a few long drives on this trip. This is a great opportunity to enjoy the scenery and spend some time getting to know the other members of your group.
    ...more ...less

  • What policies are in place for Covid-19?

    Please contact us for latest COVID-19 policies

  • How long has the tour company been trading?

    Intrepid Travel has been taking travellers around the world for over 30 years

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

    Yes

  • What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?

    Since 2002, The Intrepid Foundation has supported over 130 organisations across the world. We’re creating positive impact through the joy of travel, community and connection.

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

    Over 50% of traveller travel solo with Intrepid. You can choose to share a room with another solo travelle of the same sex for no additional charge, or choose to pay a single supplement if you’d like your own room. Please request this when booking, and we will secure you a single supplement wherever possible. Please note, if you are booking a last-minute trip, it may be harder for us to secure a single room

Reviews of this operator

Maroochy Dazza (Google Reviewer)  

Just leaving a review to...

24-Aug-2023

Just leaving a review to share how much I enjoyed my Central America trip. I thought the guide, Aura was so knowledgeable and organised and clearly a great ambassador for Intrepid. She gave us lots of information on each region, helped us organise anything we needed and dealt with queries from passengers very well and diplomatically. She made the trip run smoothly. She was also keen to explain the Intrepid vision and how the company values making a difference to locals and is a credit to your company. I did Guatemala and beyond and thoroughly enjoyed it - very fast paced, lots to see and do and a great overview of the region. I would definitely recommend 👍 ...more ...less

LivvyGrace 4 (Google Reviewer)  

I just completed my first...

15-Jul-2024

I just completed my first Intrepid tour which was 33 days travelling around Central America - I had the time of my life! It was great to have the benefit of a guide (Fluffy was amazing!) and be able to ask questions at any point, but I also liked the freedom that you were permitted throughout. The group tour made boarder crossings seamless and the whole process felt easy - there was never one hiccup. As a solo female traveller, I felt safe throughout, and I cannot recommend Central America enough - the people, the food, the sun and the activities were just amazing :) Can't wait to book my next adventure soon! ...more ...less

V Open (Google Reviewer)  

I have just come back...

26-Oct-2022

I have just come back home after doing Intrepid's 10-day Vietnam Express Northbound tour. What a SUPERB tour. We saw lots and did lots, it was jam-packed full of sights and activities. Our tour leader, Tam, was the best ever. Very knowledgeable, organised and lots of fun too. The other 10 people on the group were all lovely. The places we visited were very interesting. We even visited local homes and ate just like the local people do. I highly recommend Intrepid to anyone considering touring a new country. This was my 5th tour with them and they have consistently been fantastic. ...more ...less

john whelan (Google Reviewer)  

We booked the 10 day...

28-Feb-2025

We booked the 10 day Group Explorer package with them for Vietnam and Wow !!! . It was fantastic. We were initially a bit anxious, but that all settled after day one. There is a fair bit of travelling and moving involved, but we'll woth it as you get to see and experience loads .Our Guide Huy was brilliant and looked after us really well from local knowledge to restaurants and tour information and activities . It's worth doing folks with intrepid . Well done, keep up that standard of service. ...more ...less

Jack Edwards (Google Reviewer)  

I have travelled with Intrepid...

03-Jun-2024

I have travelled with Intrepid a number of times now and can't recommend them enough. The trips are always exciting, full of history and immersive in the culture and environment. The office staff are great too and always happy to help with any questions you might have. Everywhere I have gone with the company has been different but the guides and itinerary have always been excellent and full of knowledge and passion for their country. Add in the social responsibility angle the company has and it top quality ethical practice and you can't go wrong ...more ...less

Jo Clayton (Google Reviewer)  

I recently went on an...

15-Mar-2024

I recently went on an 11 day tour of India with Intrepid and was impressed with every aspect of the tour, the tour leader and the organisation behind the scenes. I always travel alone so it was a big deal to join a tour, I didn't want to feel less independent or ferried about. I loved being part of a group and the things we saw and did on the tour, I would never have known about or seen if I had been by myself. I loved it from start to finish. Yes the overnight trains were not easy to sleep on, but I managed. Meeting locals on board was a high light for me. English is widely spoken in India and its amazing who you strike up a chat with. I had two problems on the tour - one my own fault and one hotel related. The support from Intrepid was amazing. I cannot thank them enough for going the extra mile to support me. I recommend Intrepid 100% and have gone from thinking an organised tour is for people who don't know about Lonely Planet and can't do solo stuff, to realising its a faster, better, more fun way to get to know a country truly and deeply whilst on a bit of a budget. I will book again and again with Intrepid. I loved it that much! Big thanks to tour leader Daddy H. Devender for his help on day one, and Nick in the Oz office for his fab customer care skills. Also the person who staffed the emergency whatsapp in India - you saved my sanity helping me get there a day late! THANK YOU ALL X ...more ...less

Nicole  

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12-Oct-2021

This was my first international solo trip, but I never felt “alone” - there was always someone to go shopping, hike, or grab a quick bite with. The itinerary was a great balance between organized activities, while still allowing free time for exploring. Each location was unique and charming in its own way. Spending the night in the holy city of Moulay Idriss and wandering the winding streets of Chefchaouen were especially memorable. Thank you Mustapha and Intrepid for an incredible adventure! ...more ...less

Declan Curry (Google Reviewer)  

I have recently completed the...

07-Feb-2025

I have recently completed the Premium India In Depth tour. A most wonderful introduction to this amazing continent. From the Taj Mahal to Tigers 🐅 in the wild , dining whe the locals eat and a couple of meals with families was a great way to embrace the people and their culture. Magnificent architecture,be it Forts or Shrines. The most informative and inspiring of guides was great to have with us. Mumbai to Delhi and 6 more cities plus A Safari included. Best trip to experience India 🇮🇳. Prepare to have all your senses assaulted . Go for it. ...more ...less

Alice Norton (Google Reviewer)  

I have just completed a...

29-Feb-2024

I have just completed a 12 day food tour of Vietnam, and had an amazing time. Our tour leader was great, knowledgeable and kind, who helped throughout the trip with recommendations for places on our free days, and spas. All the food we tried was delicious. It is a very fast paced tour, and Bon tried to maximise our experiences for the best. ...more ...less

D' ARTICULATE (Google Reviewer)  

They offer some great deals...

11-Jan-2025

They offer some great deals and group travel itineraries without the flights but will include them if needed by the traveller ; leaving one to choose a more personal holiday stance or exploration & time schedule too. Neat!

1 Select your preferred date

Saturday - Thursday

Nov 01, 2025 - Nov 06, 2025
$2635 (USD)

Sunday - Friday

Nov 02, 2025 - Nov 07, 2025
$2635 (USD)

Tuesday - Sunday

Nov 04, 2025 - Nov 09, 2025
$2635 (USD)

Thursday - Tuesday

Nov 06, 2025 - Nov 11, 2025
$2635 (USD)

Saturday - Thursday

Nov 08, 2025 - Nov 13, 2025
$2740 (USD)

Monday - Saturday

Nov 10, 2025 - Nov 15, 2025
$2740 (USD)

Thursday - Tuesday

Nov 13, 2025 - Nov 18, 2025
$2740 (USD)

Friday - Wednesday

Nov 14, 2025 - Nov 19, 2025
$2740 (USD)

Monday - Saturday

Nov 17, 2025 - Nov 22, 2025
$2845 (USD)

Wednesday - Monday

Nov 19, 2025 - Nov 24, 2025
$2845 (USD)

Thursday - Tuesday

Nov 20, 2025 - Nov 25, 2025
$2845 (USD)

Friday - Wednesday

Nov 21, 2025 - Nov 26, 2025
$2845 (USD)

Saturday - Thursday

Nov 22, 2025 - Nov 27, 2025
$2845 (USD)

Sunday - Friday

Nov 23, 2025 - Nov 28, 2025
$2845 (USD)

Monday - Saturday

Nov 24, 2025 - Nov 29, 2025
$2845 (USD)

Tuesday - Sunday

Nov 25, 2025 - Nov 30, 2025
$2845 (USD)

Wednesday - Monday

Nov 26, 2025 - Dec 01, 2025
$2845 (USD)

Friday - Wednesday

Nov 28, 2025 - Dec 03, 2025
$2845 (USD)

Sunday - Friday

Nov 30, 2025 - Dec 05, 2025
$2845 (USD)

Book with Confidence

  • Free Date Changes

    Intrepid Travel allows you to make 10 free date changes, as long as the change is made at least 56 days before the start of the tour.

  • Transfer as credit to Future Tours

    Intrepid Travel allows you to transfer existing payments to a future tour to avoid cancellation fees if you can't travel and inform intrepid travel, 56 days before departure.

  • Low Deposit

    Intrepid Travel requires a minimum deposit of 400 USD per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 56 days before departure.

  • Cancellation Policy

    We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of intrepid travel charges.

    Up to 56 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.

    At 55 days before tour starts: Forfeit 30% of booking price.

    At 30 days before tour starts: Forfeit 60% of booking price.

    At 14 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.

Northern Lights Escape

6 Days Starting and ending in Reykjavik

Visiting: Reykjavik, Golden Circle / Hvolsvollur Area, South Coast / Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon, Vatnajokull Glacier / Vik ...more ...less

Tour operator:

Intrepid Travel

Tour code:

BMSW

Guide Type:

Fully Guided

Group size:

1 - 12

Physical rating:

Low

Age range:

15-99

Tour operated in:

English
From: $2635 (USD)

NB: Prices correct on 18-Mar-2025 but subject to change.

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