Iceland: Reykjavik to the Glaciers 6 days / Nature & Wildlife Tours
About This Experience
Inhale fresh Icelandic air; discover geysers and waterfalls; tap into the restorative powers of the northern isle. Your home base is Reykjavik, famed for progressive thinking and high standards of living. From here, you can see the best of Iceland, including the enticing Blue Lagoon, the inspiring Golden Circle and the otherworldly beauty of South Iceland.
Your Tour Includes
Round-trip airfare & transfers
5 nights in handpicked hotels
Breakfast daily, 1 lunch, 2 three-course dinners with beer or wine
Private deluxe motor coach
Multilingual Tour Director
Select entrance fees
Why You'll Love It
Reykjavik’s vibrant art & music scene
The relaxing, rejuvenating Blue Lagoon
Great Geysir—namesake of all other geysers
Golden Waterfall—the most powerful in Europe
South Iceland’s stunning glaciers
Black sand beaches & towering bird cliffs
Overnight Flight1 night
Reykjavik4 nights - hotel info
Day2
Admire the green architecture and abstract art in Reykjavik
Breakfast, Dinner
Restaurant Perlan, Hallgrim's Church
Welcome to Iceland! A Go Ahead representative will greet you after you clear customs and escort you to your hotel. This afternoon, your Tour Director will introduce you to Reykjavik, often called the greenest city on Earth (green as in energy-conscious, that is). You’ll see the Presidential residence at Bessastadir, the Restaurant Perlan (the Pearl), and Höfôi House, which was the location of the 1986 summit between President Regan and Secretary General Mikhail Gorbachev. Next, you’ll visit the towering Hallgrim’s Church, the University District, the Old Town Center, Parliament and the new City Hall. You’ll also catch a glimpse of the artwork of Ásmundur Sveinsson and Einar Jónsson, two famous Icelandic artists. Get to know your fellow travelers at this evening’s Welcome Dinner.
Day3
Soak up the revitalizing sulfurs of the Blue Lagoon
Breakfast
The Blue Lagoon
Spend a free morning exploring Reykjavik at your leisure, taking in its quaint homes and wonderful shops and galleries. Alternatively, you can opt to depart on a three-hour whale watching expedition (seasonal), where you’ll catch a glimpse of such great whales as minkes, orcas and humpbacks. This afternoon, rejoin your group for one of the most anticipated excursions on your tour: the Blue Lagoon. A large sulphurous lake, a swim in the Blue Lagoon will leave you feeling as if you’ve just floated in on a cloud. Promoting the harmony of body, mind and spirit, a soak in the Blue Lagoon will renew your kinship with nature—thanks to the stunning scenery all around you—and leave you with a lasting feeling of peace. And if you wish, you can purchase spa treatments and massages that take place both in and out of the water.
Optional Excursions
Whale Watching Cruise $85* pp
On this three-hour cruise, you’ll journey into the aquatic world of whales. Keep an eye out for minke whales, orcas, humpback whales and playful dolphins and porpoises. Where there are whales, sea birds are never far behind, including the gannet, puffin, guillemot razorbill, cormorant, kittiwake, sea gull, tern and many more. Please note: This excursion runs from early May to late September.
Day4
Marvel at Iceland’s natural magnificence around the Golden Circle
Breakfast, Lunch
On today’s full-day excursion, you’ll leave the bustle of Reykjavik behind as you travel the Golden Circle, a ring of some of Iceland’s most magnificent natural wonders. Your journey begins with a stop at Thingvellir National Park, where you’ll get to see the Althing, an open-air governmental assembly that was established in 930 and continued to meet until 1798. For two weeks each year, the assembly would set laws—defined as a covenant between free men—and settle disputes. As you can imagine, the Althing has deep historical and symbolic meaning for the people of Iceland. Next, it’s off to explore the Great Geysir Geothermal Area, located in the Haukadalur Valley. Derived from the Icelandic word gjósa, meaning “to erupt,” the word geysir now describes every erupting gusher of water the world over (including Old Faithful). Try not to stand to close. This geysir has been known to shoot boiling water up to 200 feet in the air. Finally, you’ll end your tour of the Golden Circle at Gullfoss, the Golden Waterfall. Europe’s most powerful waterfall, it is one of the natural wonders of the world.
Day5
Explore waterfalls, cliffs and glaciers on the South Coast
Breakfast, Dinner
This morning, embark on a full-day excursion to the South Coast. A lowland region of lush farmland, striking waterfalls, beaches, glaciers and picturesque towns and villages, South Iceland is a region replete with great historical significance—those who have studied the Icelandic saga of the burning of Njáll will be enthralled—and even greater natural beauty. Stand behind a gushing waterfall, gaze at natural rock formations and feel the awe-inspiring power of a glacier beneath your feet (if conditions allow). Then stop in the village of Vík, where you’ll have time for lunch and a chance to take in the impressive bird cliffs and walk on the unique black sands of of the South Coast. This excursion is a breathtaking and fulfilling experience you will not want to miss. Tonight, relive memories from your Icelandic journey over a Farewell Dinner.
About This Experience
Inhale fresh Icelandic air; discover geysers and waterfalls; tap into the restorative powers of the northern isle. Your home base is Reykjavik, famed for progressive thinking and high standards of living. From here, you can see the best of Iceland, including the enticing Blue Lagoon, the inspiring Golden Circle and the otherworldly beauty of South Iceland.
Your Tour Includes
Round-trip airfare & transfers
5 nights in handpicked hotels
Breakfast daily, 1 lunch, 2 three-course dinners with beer or wine
Private deluxe motor coach
Multilingual Tour Director
Select entrance fees
Why You'll Love It
Reykjavik’s vibrant art & music scene
The relaxing, rejuvenating Blue Lagoon
Great Geysir—namesake of all other geysers
Golden Waterfall—the most powerful in Europe
South Iceland’s stunning glaciers
Black sand beaches & towering bird cliffs
Overnight Flight1 night
Reykjavik4 nights - hotel info
Day2
Admire the green architecture and abstract art in Reykjavik
Breakfast, Dinner
Restaurant Perlan, Hallgrim's Church
Welcome to Iceland! A Go Ahead representative will greet you after you clear customs and escort you to your hotel. This afternoon, your Tour Director will introduce you to Reykjavik, often called the greenest city on Earth (green as in energy-conscious, that is). You’ll see the Presidential residence at Bessastadir, the Restaurant Perlan (the Pearl), and Höfôi House, which was the location of the 1986 summit between President Regan and Secretary General Mikhail Gorbachev. Next, you’ll visit the towering Hallgrim’s Church, the University District, the Old Town Center, Parliament and the new City Hall. You’ll also catch a glimpse of the artwork of Ásmundur Sveinsson and Einar Jónsson, two famous Icelandic artists. Get to know your fellow travelers at this evening’s Welcome Dinner.
Day3
Soak up the revitalizing sulfurs of the Blue Lagoon
Breakfast
The Blue Lagoon
Spend a free morning exploring Reykjavik at your leisure, taking in its quaint homes and wonderful shops and galleries. Alternatively, you can opt to depart on a three-hour whale watching expedition (seasonal), where you’ll catch a glimpse of such great whales as minkes, orcas and humpbacks. This afternoon, rejoin your group for one of the most anticipated excursions on your tour: the Blue Lagoon. A large sulphurous lake, a swim in the Blue Lagoon will leave you feeling as if you’ve just floated in on a cloud. Promoting the harmony of body, mind and spirit, a soak in the Blue Lagoon will renew your kinship with nature—thanks to the stunning scenery all around you—and leave you with a lasting feeling of peace. And if you wish, you can purchase spa treatments and massages that take place both in and out of the water.
Optional Excursions
Whale Watching Cruise $85* pp
On this three-hour cruise, you’ll journey into the aquatic world of whales. Keep an eye out for minke whales, orcas, humpback whales and playful dolphins and porpoises. Where there are whales, sea birds are never far behind, including the gannet, puffin, guillemot razorbill, cormorant, kittiwake, sea gull, tern and many more. Please note: This excursion runs from early May to late September.
Day4
Marvel at Iceland’s natural magnificence around the Golden Circle
Breakfast, Lunch
On today’s full-day excursion, you’ll leave the bustle of Reykjavik behind as you travel the Golden Circle, a ring of some of Iceland’s most magnificent natural wonders. Your journey begins with a stop at Thingvellir National Park, where you’ll get to see the Althing, an open-air governmental assembly that was established in 930 and continued to meet until 1798. For two weeks each year, the assembly would set laws—defined as a covenant between free men—and settle disputes. As you can imagine, the Althing has deep historical and symbolic meaning for the people of Iceland. Next, it’s off to explore the Great Geysir Geothermal Area, located in the Haukadalur Valley. Derived from the Icelandic word gjósa, meaning “to erupt,” the word geysir now describes every erupting gusher of water the world over (including Old Faithful). Try not to stand to close. This geysir has been known to shoot boiling water up to 200 feet in the air. Finally, you’ll end your tour of the Golden Circle at Gullfoss, the Golden Waterfall. Europe’s most powerful waterfall, it is one of the natural wonders of the world.
Day5
Explore waterfalls, cliffs and glaciers on the South Coast
Breakfast, Dinner
This morning, embark on a full-day excursion to the South Coast. A lowland region of lush farmland, striking waterfalls, beaches, glaciers and picturesque towns and villages, South Iceland is a region replete with great historical significance—those who have studied the Icelandic saga of the burning of Njáll will be enthralled—and even greater natural beauty. Stand behind a gushing waterfall, gaze at natural rock formations and feel the awe-inspiring power of a glacier beneath your feet (if conditions allow). Then stop in the village of Vík, where you’ll have time for lunch and a chance to take in the impressive bird cliffs and walk on the unique black sands of of the South Coast. This excursion is a breathtaking and fulfilling experience you will not want to miss. Tonight, relive memories from your Icelandic journey over a Farewell Dinner.
Passport & Visa
This tour includes Iceland. In order to enter these countries, U.S. and Canadian citizens need a valid passport. The expiration date must extend at least six months beyond the date of your return home. No visa is required for U.S. or Canadian citizens. If you are not a U.S. or Canadian citizen, you must contact each country’s consulate for your particular entry requirements.
Health
There are no major health risks when traveling to Iceland. However, it is always advisable to check with your doctor or health-care provider for the latest updates.
Transportation / Walking on tour
Flights arrive in and depart from Reykjavik. Included transportation on “Iceland: Reykjavik to the Glaciers” is by private motor coach. In your free time, most locations are best accessed on foot.
Clothing & Packing Tips
Iceland tends to be cool and often damp at certain times of year. Loose-fitting, layered clothing that can accommodate varying temperatures will probably be most comfortable. A sun hat, sunglasses and a sturdy pair of walking shoes or sneakers are recommended for sightseeing. It’s always a good idea to be prepared for any eventuality—a lightweight sports jacket and rainwear are advised. If you plan to visit an elegant restaurant or attend the opera or theater, you will probably feel more comfortable with something formal to wear. Also, remember that it is preferable not to visit churches or other religious sites with bare legs and shoulders (and entrance may be denied on this basis).
Currency
The Icelandic Krona is the currency you will be
using on your tour. Better rates of exchange are usually available overseas, although it is worth
ordering some currency from your local bank to use when you first arrive. We strongly advise that you take debit/bank cards and credit cards, which can be used to withdraw cash at local banks, as needed. You can use most debit/credit cards at ATMs on the international networks Cirrus and Plus, but make sure to check with your home bank about withdrawal fees. We suggest that you inform your bank and credit card company of your travel plans, so that they won’t confuse your international purchases for fraudulent charges.
Tipping
At the conclusion of your tour, it is customary to offer your Tour Director and driver a gratuity. We recommend tipping in your tour country’s currency, the equivalent of $3USD/CAD per person per day for your driver and $6USD/CAD to $9USD/CAD per person per day for your Tour Director.
If applicable, we also recommend the equivalent of $2USD/CAD per local guide. Tips can only be paid in cash. Please keep current local currency exchange rates in mind when tipping.
Suggested Reading
http://www.longitudebooks.com/find/d/21927/r/GV/mcms.html
Special Info
Along Iceland’s South Coast, the rugged lava scarps of the interior give way to thunderous waterfalls, placid black sand beaches and the slow march of glaciers into the sea.
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GREAT TRIP!
ICELAND WAS AWESOME AND WE HAD A GREAT TOUR DIRECTOR AND A GREAT GROUP OF PEOPLE TO SHARE THIS EXPERIENCE WITH!
National Geographic
I was like being on assignment from National Geographic to do an episode of 'Planet Earth'. Very interesting and enjoyable.
Loved the trip.
Loved the trip. The hotel was great. Really loved our tour guide, Truasti. We are already planning our next trip to Iceland. Hope to take the ring road around the country. The food was fantastic!
Could have been better
The bad: Quite disorganized.... The hotel did not have my room ready till 5pm even though we arrived at 7:30am. I hadn't slept in 2 days ...The first day was just the worst, positively miserable. the tour director was aggressive, boring, rude and disorganized. We went whale watching the tour director asked us to hand in our invoices as entry, who Carries an invoice around on vacation? Checking off a list of names would have made more sense, and the group did not see a single whale, very disappointing. the tour director was just winging it honestly, and told the most depressing Stories during the bus ride about people dying while traveling in Iceland. Timing was poor....you have senior citizens walking up mountainous terrain, and gave everyone only 10 minutes to get back to the bus, really? As if it couldn't get worse, the director hit on me the entire time... Twice my age this man, I think I would have enjoyed my trip a lot better if it weren't for him. The good: I skipped out on one of the day tours (too long) and went about the town, had fun on my own. The locals were friendly and open minded.. Ironically, there were a lot of Americans. I met one of the locals who took me to see Bjork's house, that was cool. There are great bars in reykjavik, and an awesome sandwich shop 2 blocks from my hotel. I met a very nice eye doctor who helped me get a new pair of glasses. The meals were nice with exception of breakfast, for some reason they kept burning the scrambled eggs. I was put onto a music band from Iceland, the shops were nice, and there was just no way to get lost... Everything was with walking distance of the hotel. I will definitely comeback next year. I would seriously have had more fun if not for the above mentioned issues in this review.
Iceland- land of fire and ice
I'm so glad I was able to do this trip. The country was beautiful, with such a diverse environment. We saw glaciers, waterfalls, geysers, craters, volcanoes,beautiful green mountains and landscapes, black volcanic beaches, and geothermal hot springs. The location of the hotel was perfect; we were able to walk to restaurants, parks, shops, landmarks, and the harbor. The whalewatching trip would have been much better if we had seen whales, and we were not able to stand on a glacier, as the itinerary stated, but everytning that we did do and see was great.
Reykjavik and The Glaciers
Everything was great except the tour guide . We could not understand him be cause he had a rather heavy accent. Most of the stories he told were very gruesome or about his relatives. He was rather old and did not relate to us very well. For example, we asked him if he could provide us with a list of the people on the tour. He never did, thoguh several people asked him to . So on the last day, he gave one copy to one of the people and i had to go to the desk to ask to make copies for all the rest of us. The hotel people were great! We never introduced ourselves on the first day at the welcome dinner. So it was harder to get to know the other people on our tour.
Iceland Aug 2012
Tour guide was not good, hotel was fair, United Airlines cost us 25% of trip with a flight cancellation, whale watch was cold, rainy and no whales. Good sides, Blue Lagoon, waterfalls, Guysirs and countryside well worth the visit. Not going to the Glacier as noted in the itinerary was a major disappointment. GoAhead will make needed improvements, so book this tour.
A trip to Mars
Iceland is like traveling to a pre-historic land, similar to what I image Mars would look like if they find water. The volcanoes and volcanic boulders, the huge waterfalls and glaciers, beautiful black sand beaches, along with the greenest greens west of Ireland. Even though we did not see any whales, the whale watching adventure was a must do. Being out in the North Atlantic was an experience. The visit to the Blue Lagoon was an other-worldly event. The location of the hotel was perfect, a five minute walk to the center of town. The shops were great, but the restaurants were amazing. Seafood and lamb were the specialties. You have to just forget about the prices of each individual item, everything is high. Keep telling yourself that you're on vacation. ENJOY!
Reykjavik to the Glaciers
A nice trip, about the right length, very interesting sites and geology. an tnusual country.
Iceland Tour needs reworking
Iceland is well worth a visit but this tour was only fair. We visited Iceland 6 years ago with IcelandAir and it was a great tour. Unfortunately, United Airlines canceled our flight which robbed us a day of a 4 day visit and our tour guide was far below GoAhead's standards and the Hotel Cemtrum had values but also had downsides. Iceland with the Blue Lagoon, waaterfalls and geysirs is well worth the trip and I'm sure GoAhead will make needed changes to make this trip a go. We have taken 5 other trips with GoAhead and they have all been sensational and have two more currently booked.
