South Iceland Summer Express - 3 days
South Iceland Summer Express - 3 days
South Iceland Summer Express - 3 days
3 Days Starting and ending in Reykjavik, Iceland
Visiting: Reykjavik, Seljalandsfoss
Tour operator:
Tour code:
2423/SICE
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Group size:
10 - 30
Age range:
12-
Tour operated in:
EnglishTrip Styles:
Interests:
Activities:
Tour Overview
Embark on a breathtaking 3-day journey through South Iceland with the Summer Express tour. Begin your adventure in Reykjavik, heading to the Westman Islands to explore Heimaey, a town reborn from volcanic ashes. Marvel at the majestic Seljalandsfoss and Skogafoss waterfalls, and experience the unique Vik lava show. Discover the enchanting black sands of Reynisfjara beach and the traditional charm of Skogar Folk Museum. Opt for a thrilling glacier hike on Solheimajokull or relax in the natural geothermal streams of Landmannalaugar's colorful rhyolite mountains. Enjoy comfortable accommodations at Hotel Stracta in Hella, with opportunities to unwind in hot tubs under the Northern Lights. Guided by an English-speaking expert, travel in modern coaches with Wi-Fi, and savor included meals as you immerse yourself in Iceland's stunning landscapes and vibrant wildlife. Conclude your tour back in Reykjavik, enriched by the wonders of Icelandic nature.
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1: Reykjavik
Location: Reykjavik
Accommodation Name: Hotel Stracta
Reykjavik - The Westman Islands - Hella. Welcome to Iceland! Departing from Reykjavik at 8am this morning we head southeast to the coast, where we board a ferry to Heimaey, the only inhabited island in the Westman archipelago. In 1973, half of the island's settlements were destroyed by a volcanic eruption, triggering a huge evacuation effort. Amazingly, only one person was killed during the eruption, and residents managed to save the harbour from destruction by continuously pouring cold seawater on the lava to direct it away from this important infrastructure. We'll take a bus and walking tour of the island, including a visit to the "Pompeii of the North", a volcanic excavation project. We'll also have the chance to walk up the volcano crater.
As well as the 4,500 residents who still live on Heimaey, approximately 8 million puffins make the island their summer home, and you'll be able to see these beautiful birds by the hundred. Many other migratory species also visit the Westman Islands in summer to feed and breed, so who knows which species you may spot! You'll have plenty of time to explore Heimaey town and its surrounding areas independently before we return to the mainland and head to our overnight accommodation in Hella.
Please note: If you would like to book pre-tour accommodation in Reykjavik, then we would be happy to arrange this for you on request.
Day 2: Seljalandsfoss
Location: Seljalandsfoss
Accommodation Name: Hotel Stracta
Hella - Seljalandsfoss. Today we experience the true forces of nature which make Iceland so special. Our morning starts with the plunging Seljalandsfoss waterfall, there's a path that winds its way directly behind Seljalandsfoss, which we will walk along and feel the spray from the waterfall.
On our way to the village of Vik we attend the famous lava show, when a volcanic eruption is re-enacted on a small scale. You'll see lava flowing along the ice, and feel the immense heat radiating from it. We then travel to the black lava beach of Reynisfjara. Our walk along the beach will allow us to spot yet more of Iceland's birdlife, as well as impressive rock formations and basalt columns.
In the afternoon, we visit Skogar where we'll see the traditional turf houses of the Skogar Folk Museum and be mesmerised by the sightings of the thundering skogafoss waterfall, reaching over 60 meters high, it is one of the most impressive waterfalls in the country. Alternatively you can join an optional glacier hike at Sólheimajökull glacier It's an informative and easy walk through a frozen wonderland of different shades of glacier ice. Price per person: ISK 23.000.
Day 3: Reykjavik
Location: Reykjavik
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
Hella - Landmannalaugar - Reykjavik. Leaving our hotel in Hella for the final time, we drive along the unpaved road to Landmannalaugar. These incredible mountains were formed by rhyolite lava, which is of a different sort to many volcanic formations. The effect is a series of "rainbow" mountains, with lots of interspersing colours, including reds, yellows, and browns. Sizzling sulfur springs are still visible and steamy vapour rises from the land. We'll enjoy a picnic lunch in the area and there is free time to explore and take a dip in a natural geothermal stream.
We'll stop to see the beautiful Hjalparfoss waterfall before returning to Reykjavik where our tour comes to an end. A Flybus Shuttle transfer will take you to Keflavik International Airport for your onward flight.
What's Included
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Accommodation
3-star hotel -
Escorted by an English-speaking guide/driver-guide
The tour includes the services of an English-speaking guide or driver-guide.
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Transportation in modern coaches
Transportation is provided in modern coaches, with free Wi-Fi and return transport in a highland vehicle to Landmannalaugar.
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Return ferry trip to the Westman Islands
The tour includes a return ferry trip to the Westman Islands.
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Walking tour of the Village of Heimaey
A walking tour of the Village of Heimaey is included in the itinerary.
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Entrance to the Vik lava show
Entrance to the Vik lava show is included in the tour.
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Entrance to the Skogar Folk Museum
The tour includes entrance to the Skogar Folk Museum.
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Tour operated with trusted partner
This tour is operated in conjunction with a trusted partner, and you will join travelers from different operators.
What's Not Included
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International flights and Visas
International flights and visas are not included in the tour package.
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Arrival and departure transfers
Transfers for arrival and departure are not included in the tour.
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Tips for your guide
Tips for your guide are not included and are an entirely personal gesture.
Accommodation
In the sleepy village of Hella, Stracta Hotel offers fantastic modern accommodation in a great location. Guest rooms are designed in a Nordic style with bright interiors and comfortable beds. Guests can enjoy meals at the Restaurant Gardur on the second floor - affording stunning views of the beautiful countryside around.
Age Policy
Strictly 12 yrs+
Mode of Transport
Transportation is provided in modern coaches with free Wi-Fi, and includes return transport in a highland vehicle to Landmannalaugar. The tour also features a return ferry trip to the Westman Islands, ensuring a comfortable and scenic journey throughout.
Check out our Q&As
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What kind of wildlife can I expect to see on the tour?
During the tour, especially on the Westman Islands, you can expect to see a large number of puffins, as approximately 8 million of them make the island their summer home. Additionally, many other migratory bird species visit the islands in summer to feed and breed.
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Is there an opportunity to experience geothermal activity during the tour?
Yes, on the third day of the tour, you will visit Landmannalaugar, where you can see sizzling sulfur springs and have the opportunity to take a dip in a natural geothermal stream.
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What unique experiences are included in the tour?
The tour includes a visit to the Vik lava show, where a volcanic eruption is re-enacted on a small scale, allowing you to see lava flowing and feel its heat. Additionally, you will have the chance to walk behind the Seljalandsfoss waterfall and explore the 'Pompeii of the North' on Heimaey Island.
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Are there any optional activities available during the tour?
Yes, on the second day, there is an optional glacier hike at Sólheimajökull glacier, which is an informative and easy walk through a frozen wonderland of different shades of glacier ice. The price for this activity is ISK 23,000 per person.
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What type of accommodation is provided during the tour?
The tour includes two nights at the Stracta Hotel in Hella, which offers modern accommodation with Nordic-style guest rooms. The hotel features a restaurant with stunning countryside views and hot tubs where guests can relax in the evening.
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What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?
Ensuring our footprint is light and that the benefits of travelling reach the local communities you visit is paramount to us. We’re proud to say that when travelling with us, the large majority of your holiday funds remain within the countries you visit, supporting local economies at a grass roots level.
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How long has the tour company been trading?
Since 1998
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Who will be my travelling companions on the tour?
With English-speaking tours, it's not a huge surprise that most on our travellers are from English-speaking countries or have English as their second language. Our group tours cater for everyone from 18 years old to 70+
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Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?
Yes
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Low Deposit
On The Go Tours requires a minimum deposit of 600 USD per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 60 days before departure.
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Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of on the go tours charges.
Up to 60 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 59 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.
At 30 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.