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Iceland Adventure Vacations

Essence-of-Iceland-Trip

Venture to the land of fire and ice for an Iceland adventure vacation, where glaciers and volcanoes forge a land of contrasts in perfect harmony.

Adventure abounds in a place where "epic" is an appropriate description for just about everything. Rugged, sky-skimming peaks and blue-hued glaciers stand in stark contrast to the black sand beaches and volcanic landscapes Iceland is known for. A prime destination for hiking, kayaking, and soaking in restorative waters, this is an outdoor adventurers' paradise. If you don't have an Iceland adventure vacation on your radar, you should! With our team handling every detail, you'll experience the absolute best of Iceland's natural wonders.

EU-Iceland-waterfalls

View the best of Iceland, mixed to our favorite hidden gems, for an Iceland adventure you won't forget any time soon!

On our Iceland adventures, you will experience the true Iceland, from must-sees like Reykjavík “Smokey Bay”, Þingvellir, Vatnajökull National Parks and Jökulsárlón Lagoon, to lesser-known gems like the Vestmannaeyjar Islands, Eldfell Volcano and the remote Eastern Fjord. You'll hike to spy on wild puffin colonies, soak in hidden hot springs and admire the Öxaràrfoss, Gullfoss, Seljalandsfoss, Skógafoss, Kvernufoss & Svartifoss Waterfalls from above and below... So, what are you waiting for?

Iceland Adventure Vacations

Europe

Ultimate Iceland Adventure

ActiveAdventures

Operated by our sister brand Active Adventures

4.8

  • Duration 10 days
  • Activity Level Level 2 
    • Activity Level 2

      Hikes on our Level 2 adventures are considered easy to moderate in difficulty.

    Read more about the Active Range

Experience authentic Iceland as you hike through dramatic landscapes, explore glacier-carved valleys, and discover hidden waterfalls—all while immersing yourself in the breathtaking beauty of the Land of Fire and Ice.

Trip Start: Reykjavik Trip End: Reykjavik

Europe

Classic Iceland Adventure

ActiveAdventures

Operated by our sister brand Active Adventures

4.7

  • Duration 7 days
  • Activity Level Level 2 
    • Activity Level 2

      Hikes on our Level 2 adventures are considered easy to moderate in difficulty.

    Read more about the Active Range

Journey along Iceland's Golden Circle and venture further afield to remote glacier lagoons and otherworldly volcanic landscapes. This seven-day adventure reveals the best of Iceland’s dramatic landscapes and dynamic culture. 

Trip Start: Reykjavik Trip End: Reykjavik

Hear from our Happy Guests
4.85/5 Rating | 6,500+ Reviews

What guests are saying about their Iceland Adventure Vacation

view all

Classic Iceland Adventure

Don F

"A great trip. Very well organized , great sights, excellent guide.

Great job!

read more

A great trip. Very well organized , great sights, excellent guide.

Great job!

"A great trip. Very well organized , great sights, excellent guide.

Great job! read less

4.7 Stars (49 reviews)

D | January 1970

Classic Iceland Adventure

Jeanne K

"Our Active Adventure Icelandic trip was enchanting; from tales about hidden folks dwelling amongst the farmers of yesteryear, to hardscrabble fisherman -- tales and history provided to us by our fantastic guide -- Solvi -- allowed us to really feel these stories as we stood on the rugged landscape. You then fully appreciate the powerful natural forces which have worked upon the land and its people. Loved our visit!

read more

Our Active Adventure Icelandic trip was enchanting; from tales about hidden folks dwelling amongst the…

"Our Active Adventure Icelandic trip was enchanting; from tales about hidden folks dwelling amongst the farmers of yesteryear, to hardscrabble fisherman -- tales and history provided to us by our fantastic guide -- Solvi -- allowed us to really feel these stories as we stood on the rugged landscape. You then fully appreciate the powerful natural forces which have worked upon the land and its people. Loved our visit! read less

4.7 Stars (49 reviews)

J | January 1970

Ultimate Iceland Adventure

Bob L

"Excellent, the trip of a lifetime!

read more

Excellent, the trip of a lifetime!

"Excellent, the trip of a lifetime! read less

4.8 Stars (43 reviews)

B | January 1970

Ultimate Iceland Adventure

Harold C

"The Ultimate Iceland Adventure was easily one of the best trips we've every taken. Every aspect, from guides to accommodations to activities to food was spot on. The knowledge and attentiveness of our local guide combined with the striking geology created an experience unlike any other.

read more

The Ultimate Iceland Adventure was easily one of the best trips we've every taken. Every…

"The Ultimate Iceland Adventure was easily one of the best trips we've every taken. Every aspect, from guides to accommodations to activities to food was spot on. The knowledge and attentiveness of our local guide combined with the striking geology created an experience unlike any other. read less

4.8 Stars (43 reviews)

H | January 1970

Ultimate Iceland Adventure

Paul W

"What can I say! It was beautiful, incredible and so enjoyable. The sights, the guides, the people we were with. Everything was great! On top of it all, we got to see the Northern Lights. How great that was. One of our guides, Mel, had just finished her late shower and she spotted them and proceeded to wake us all up. We were like little kids in a candy store looking up to the sky. Our 4 day hike was incredibly enjoying and tough but well worth it!

read more

What can I say! It was beautiful, incredible and so enjoyable. The sights, the guides,…

"What can I say! It was beautiful, incredible and so enjoyable. The sights, the guides, the people we were with. Everything was great! On top of it all, we got to see the Northern Lights. How great that was. One of our guides, Mel, had just finished her late shower and she spotted them and proceeded to wake us all up. We were like little kids in a candy store looking up to the sky. Our 4 day hike was incredibly enjoying and tough but well worth it! read less

4.8 Stars (43 reviews)

P | January 1970

Ultimate Iceland Adventure

Claudia W

"Our trip to Iceland was spectacular! From hiking the volcanoes and the glaciers to kayaking amongst icebergs to spotting puffins and sheep and horses to sleeping in mountain huts to viewing the hundreds of waterfalls, Iceland did not disappoint. Seeing the northern lights was icing on the cake! The 3 day hike was challenging but our guides Solvi and Mel were great coaches and I was able to go at my own pace. The feeling of accomplishment at the end was well worth the effort, not to mention the spectacular scenery and lack of other people along the route. Solvi's knowledge and love of Iceland was incredible, and Mel was unflappable as she guided us, cooked for us and handled every logistic cheerfully.

read more

Our trip to Iceland was spectacular! From hiking the volcanoes and the glaciers to…

"Our trip to Iceland was spectacular! From hiking the volcanoes and the glaciers to kayaking amongst icebergs to spotting puffins and sheep and horses to sleeping in mountain huts to viewing the hundreds of waterfalls, Iceland did not disappoint. Seeing the northern lights was icing on the cake! The 3 day hike was challenging but our guides Solvi and Mel were great coaches and I was able to go at my own pace. The feeling of accomplishment at the end was well worth the effort, not to mention the spectacular scenery and lack of other people along the route. Solvi's knowledge and love of Iceland was incredible, and Mel was unflappable as she guided us, cooked for us and handled every logistic cheerfully. read less

4.8 Stars (43 reviews)

C | January 1970

Classic Iceland Adventure

Claudia B

"I had a great experience with Active Adventures in Iceland. I picked the 6-day Classic Iceland Adventure and was very happy with my choice. While the price was a bit high traveling in a Single Room, the experience more than made up for it.
We were guided by two amazing ladies and our group of 8 absolutely loved them! The local guide Ms. Stina (Cristina Bang) is a gem. She delighted us with adventure, laughter, and stories about Iceland. The Kiwi guide Mel was kind, genuine and always helpful. She kept an eye on all of us and helped those who needed a little more attention.
The hotels, the food, the excursions, and the hikes were great. Only two reasons I am not giving an "Excellent/Five stars):
1) The itinerary should take the cruise ship schedules into consideration and avoid or work around their arrival date. This is crucial because large crowds were a detriment to an otherwise incredibly good tour. Another option would be timing the visits to top tourist attractions outside of the standard hours, or scheduling your departure dates outside the peak season (mid-July to late August).
2) The Hotel Storm, which was our last…

read more

I had a great experience with Active Adventures in Iceland. I picked the 6-day Classic…

"I had a great experience with Active Adventures in Iceland. I picked the 6-day Classic Iceland Adventure and was very happy with my choice. While the price was a bit high traveling in a Single Room, the experience more than made up for it.
We were guided by two amazing ladies and our group of 8 absolutely loved them! The local guide Ms. Stina (Cristina Bang) is a gem. She delighted us with adventure, laughter, and stories about Iceland. The Kiwi guide Mel was kind, genuine and always helpful. She kept an eye on all of us and helped those who needed a little more attention.
The hotels, the food, the excursions, and the hikes were great. Only two reasons I am not giving an "Excellent/Five stars):
1) The itinerary should take the cruise ship schedules into consideration and avoid or work around their arrival date. This is crucial because large crowds were a detriment to an otherwise incredibly good tour. Another option would be timing the visits to top tourist attractions outside of the standard hours, or scheduling your departure dates outside the peak season (mid-July to late August).
2) The Hotel Storm, which was our last night, is not up to the standard of the hotels selected for this tour. I understand this was caused by an availability issue during the busiest night of the year for Reykjavik as the original itinerary stayed at the Centrum Hotel which was lovely. An upgrade would have been appreciated, however not always possible.
In closing, I am leaving Iceland profoundly grateful. Active Adventures was the right choice for this trip. read less

4.7 Stars (49 reviews)

C | January 1970

Classic Iceland Adventure

Linda S

"The trip was truly fantastic! From the hikes, to the accommodations, to the food...everything was fantastic. I could not have asked for better guides--they were informative and truly enhanced the trip, ensuring that everything went perfectly and made this an adventure I will never forget.

read more

The trip was truly fantastic! From the hikes, to the accommodations, to the food...everything was…

"The trip was truly fantastic! From the hikes, to the accommodations, to the food...everything was fantastic. I could not have asked for better guides--they were informative and truly enhanced the trip, ensuring that everything went perfectly and made this an adventure I will never forget. read less

4.7 Stars (49 reviews)

L | January 1970

Classic Iceland Adventure

Jay W

"Excellent, the trip of a lifetime!

read more

Excellent, the trip of a lifetime!

"Excellent, the trip of a lifetime! read less

4.7 Stars (49 reviews)

J | January 1970

Classic Iceland Adventure

Gene W

"Excellent, the trip of a lifetime!

read more

Excellent, the trip of a lifetime!

"Excellent, the trip of a lifetime! read less

4.7 Stars (49 reviews)

G | January 1970

Classic Iceland Adventure

Jacqueline W

"The stuff dreams are made of, Iceland! It is impossible to describe this trip because Iceland is like no other place in its beauty, vastness and natural wonders. Our guides were outstanding in immersing us in the culture and lore as well as the daily activities and sights adding a deeper understanding of the place and people.

read more

The stuff dreams are made of, Iceland! It is impossible to describe this trip because…

"The stuff dreams are made of, Iceland! It is impossible to describe this trip because Iceland is like no other place in its beauty, vastness and natural wonders. Our guides were outstanding in immersing us in the culture and lore as well as the daily activities and sights adding a deeper understanding of the place and people. read less

4.7 Stars (49 reviews)

J | January 1970

Ultimate Iceland Adventure

Mary L

"Good, really enjoyed it

read more

Good, really enjoyed it

"Good, really enjoyed it read less

4.8 Stars (43 reviews)

M | January 1970

Ultimate Iceland Adventure

Ann O

"The ultimate Iceland trip exceeded my expectations! The guides, accomadations, activities and the weather were amazing! the hiking was challenging but the views were breathtaking! The hiking part of the trip and staying in the huts was great- they saved the best for last! The food was great, the local favor was wonderful.

read more

The ultimate Iceland trip exceeded my expectations! The guides, accomadations, activities and the weather were…

"The ultimate Iceland trip exceeded my expectations! The guides, accomadations, activities and the weather were amazing! the hiking was challenging but the views were breathtaking! The hiking part of the trip and staying in the huts was great- they saved the best for last! The food was great, the local favor was wonderful. read less

4.8 Stars (43 reviews)

A | January 1970

Ultimate Iceland Adventure

Betsy R

"My boyfriend and I joined Active Adventures for the second time for the Ultimate Iceland Adventure after having a wonderful time in the Galapagos last year. After such an exceptional vacation, we were worried that our trip to Iceland would struggle to compare. Our worries were unfounded! We were blown away by the beauty and history of this country, and the knowledge and passion of our guides, Kim and Dagny. By some meteorological miracle, we had perfect weather that allowed stunning views of waterfalls, mountains, and fjords, as well as puffins and sheep galore. The hotels and even the backcountry "huts" were comfortable and welcoming, and even as vegetarians, we were able to enjoy delicious Icelandic dishes (plus all the blueberries we could pick along the trails!). I'd recommend the trip to any friend who is up for an adventure.

read more

My boyfriend and I joined Active Adventures for the second time for the Ultimate Iceland…

"My boyfriend and I joined Active Adventures for the second time for the Ultimate Iceland Adventure after having a wonderful time in the Galapagos last year. After such an exceptional vacation, we were worried that our trip to Iceland would struggle to compare. Our worries were unfounded! We were blown away by the beauty and history of this country, and the knowledge and passion of our guides, Kim and Dagny. By some meteorological miracle, we had perfect weather that allowed stunning views of waterfalls, mountains, and fjords, as well as puffins and sheep galore. The hotels and even the backcountry "huts" were comfortable and welcoming, and even as vegetarians, we were able to enjoy delicious Icelandic dishes (plus all the blueberries we could pick along the trails!). I'd recommend the trip to any friend who is up for an adventure. read less

4.8 Stars (43 reviews)

B | January 1970

Ultimate Iceland Adventure

Jenny K

"The trip was fabulous and totally met expectations. Thora and Kim were great guides and I really enjoyed hearing the many stories Thora had to tell about the history and Icelandic fables. Her local/geological knowledge was very impressive
Scenery, waterfalls, hiking was all fantastic. I enjoyed it all immensely

read more

The trip was fabulous and totally met expectations. Thora and Kim were great guides and…

"The trip was fabulous and totally met expectations. Thora and Kim were great guides and I really enjoyed hearing the many stories Thora had to tell about the history and Icelandic fables. Her local/geological knowledge was very impressive
Scenery, waterfalls, hiking was all fantastic. I enjoyed it all immensely read less

4.8 Stars (43 reviews)

J | January 1970

AUS-Square-Deal-Posts-4-v2

Take 10% off the trip price when you book a trip and pay in full

By paying in full we are able to pass on savings to our guests, but please note that by opting for this payment plan, your booking becomes non-refundable, non-cancellable, and non-changeable. This offer is only valid for reservations where the trip is no sooner than 180 days from the departure date at time of booking.

We highly recommend that you purchase Cancel For Any Reason (CFAR) insurance. We recommend Redpoint Insurance – you can find details here.

T+Cs Apply. Read more here.

Iceland Adventure FAQs

What is the best time of year to travel to Iceland?

Summer is the best time to visit Iceland with the longest daylight hours between June-August and the temperature sits around the low 20'sC. The months between May and September is the best time of year for whale watching and if you're keen to get out hiking, the snow comes as early as September and can linger into May.

What language is mostly spoken in Iceland?

Icelandic is a national language spoken by the vast majority whom live in Iceland. English is spoken in most hotels, airports and tourist areas though not everywhere. Our local guides are all fluent native speakers so if you don't have time to learn a little before arrival you don't have to worry... they will take care of everything.

What month is best to see Northern Lights in Iceland?

The best time to see the aurora borealis in Iceland is between October and March with the best time of day would be the hours around midnight.

How many days do you need in Iceland?

A minimum of 1 week in Iceland is good though roughly 8-12 days is an ideal amount of time to spend in Iceland as it gives you time to explore different regions.

What is there to do in Reykjavík?

Reykjavík (translated to “Smokey Bay”) is the northernmost capital of the world and presents a wealth of sights and activities that appeal to culture, nature and nightlife enthusiasts alike. Hallgrímskirkja church is a must-see, visible from almost every angle of the city and therefore making it very easy to find. At the top of this expressionist building is a viewing platform boasting 360° views over the entire city. You could visit the Harpa Concert and Conference Hall, it is an impressive glass building situated by the old harbour of Reykjavík, you’ll be able to admire it both from the outside and inside and get some great pictures. There are also numerous green areas and parks you can visit in Reykjavík, a popular destination all year round is Grótta, with its iconic lighthouse and views over Faxaflói bay and Reykjavík’s signature mountain Esjan.

Can you help me find international flights to Iceland?

Our preferred Travel Partner Fuzion Travel can assist with you with flights and other travel arrangements. Let them know your preferred travel plans, including any stopovers or extra nights’ accommodation, and they’ll put everything in place for you. They offer a total travel solution and five star service that you’ll want to tell your friends about!

Do I need a visa to visit Iceland?

It is your responsibility to stay up to date on the latest visa and entry requirements for your destination. Depending on your country of origin and the type of passport you hold, you may require a visa or other endorsement to enter Iceland.

You can find essential travel advice, including passport and visa information, security details and local regulations, on the government website of your home country.

Here are some helpful links:

Entry requirements can change at any time, so it’s important you monitor this right up until you depart for your trip.

Do I need vaccinations to visit Iceland?

You don't need any vaccinations for Iceland. Easy!

Do you recommend buying travel insurance?

As an Active Adventures traveller, It’s essential you take out travel insurance to cover the likes of personal injury, medical expenses, trip cancellation for your travel with us. Please head to our Travel Insurance page for more in-depth information and insurance provider options. It’s also important to check your insurance covers all the activities you’ll be partaking in, in case you’re travelling to altitude or looking at extreme sports.

What's included on your Iceland trips?

Accommodation

On your Iceland trip you'll stay in a variety of places depending on the destination and activities. You'll stay in nice, locally owned, beautiful family run hotels in great locations, with private bathrooms, free wi-fi, great breakfasts and warm local hospitality. 

Transport

Your transport will be a mixture of private vehicle and your very own two feet on our trips in Iceland. You'll spend most time hiking and exploring everywhere! All your transport is included from the start of your trip until at the end, with the exception of airport transfers. The details are all listed in the trip specific itineraries.

Meals

All your meals are included as described in the itinerary, we have found people enjoy checking out what is on offer by themselves sometimes, so you can go and see what's out there! We've chosen places to eat that can cater for our hearty appetites, work well with our small groups (they know we are coming) and provide us with an authentic destination specific culinary experience. There are always options for you, so you can either be brave or choose something more familiar. You can be assured that on all our trips we will make sure you are very well fed, and Iceland's vast array of cuisine won't disappoint you!

Guides

Our trips are all led by experienced guides who are very proud to work with us and often lead our trips for many years, for which we are very lucky and very grateful as it means we're able to consistently offer a fantastic level of service. They work closely with local specialist guides to provide you with a seamless, fun, exciting and memorable trip. They will happily share with you as much or as little as you want to know about the history, culture, social aspects and lifestyle of the country you are visiting.

How many people are there on each of your Iceland trips?

We generally take up to 14 people per trip, although this can vary, and all our trips have at least two of our guides to look after you (apart from the occasions we have a small group). We have found that our trips tend to attract a particular kind of person and many people have commented that the social scene was one of the highlights of their trip!

What rooming is provided on your Iceland trips?

Our trip fares are based on a twin-share rate (two people per room), though for the multi-day trek on the Ultimate Iceland Adventure the mountain cabin’s are located in very remote areas (with amazing scenery) so they don’t have private rooms, electricity or phones however there’s a shared outhouse with hot showers and flushing toilets - and the view from the outhouse is second to none!

What is the currency in Iceland?

The currency in Iceland it’s the Icleandic Króna kr

How much spending money should I bring and where do I get local currencies?

Our trips include all transportation, guiding, meals and activities (except where indicated on the itinerary). Most people like to bring a little extra to cover a round of drinks at the pub, take home some souvenirs, book a tour and eat out on their free day, and tip our guides if they've had a great time.

Usually the easiest thing to do is use your credit or debit card to withdraw money directly from your home account, in local currency. There are plenty of ATM's and banks in larger towns in Europe, and ATM's will accept all major credit cards and many debit cards.

What kind of clothing should I be packing?

Once you've booked your trip, you'll have access to a gear list in your portal on exactly what to bring along. The gear list is carefully thought out to provide you with everything you need to be warm and happy, or cool and relaxed, whatever the weather! So it is best to bring everything we recommend along, if you don't bring everything you need, we can't guarantee your comfort.

Do I need hiking boots or are hiking sneakers okay?

You will need proper hiking boots for the Ultimate Iceland Adventure, though trail shoes will be all good for the Classic Iceland Adventure. We'll be taking you to some awesome places where you'll be hiking over a variety of terrain, therefore your boots should have full ankle support and a stiff sole with a high profile tread. It's also important that whichever footwear you decide to bring that it's well broken-in and waterproofed before you come down. If you have good ankles that will be able to cope pretty well with varied terrain, then good hiking shoes should be fine, but if not then hiking boots will give you better support.

What is the weather like in Iceland?

Iceland enjoys a cool temperate climate thanks to the Gulf Stream, and the weather is known to change quickly and often. No matter when you're visiting you should always have wind and water resistant outerwear, as well as extra thermal layers on hand! Winter in Iceland usually has temperatures hovering around 0°c (32°F), which is really nothing compared to the temperatures in other northern countries, considering it's one of the absolute best places to see the northern lights in the world! Summer is still very cool due to being so close to the Arctic circle. During the warmest months, in July and August, the temperature in Reykjavík sits between 9-14°C (48-57°F) though warm summer days can reach 20–25°C (68–77°F). The days are very long which provides plenty of sunshine - during a time known as the Midnight Sun, when there is virtually no nighttime darkness!

What if I need a special diet?

We are accustomed to catering to the following special diets:

  • vegan (no meat or animal products)
  • vegetarian (no meat products)
  • pescatarian (vegetarian, and eat fish)
  • no red meat (eat chicken & fish)
  • no pork (eat chicken & fish)
  • gluten intolerant (no wheat, rye, barley or oats)
  • lactose intolerant (no dairy products)

You will get the opportunity to specify your particular requirements when you fill in our pre-trip questionnaire. If you have any other dietary requirements please let us know well in advance, via email or in your Account.

What is the food like in Iceland?

Icelandic cuisine is famous for their local seafood, specifically their cod as well as lamb, bread and skyr- a soft yogurt-like cheese. The sheer abundance and variety of produce, wine and meats will satisfy any palate.

What type of plugs and voltage do you use in Iceland?

Iceland operate on a 220V AC system with Plug Type C which consists of two round parallel pins while the wall plug has two holes where it is connected.

Will I have access to Wi-fi?

Wi-fi is available at most of the accommodations you'll be staying at, log-in instructions will be provided. If you have data roaming switched on, you'll be able to use the internet on your smartphone about 70% of the time during your trip, but beware of the fees!

What is the time zone in Iceland?

For the majority of the summer season Iceland is on Greenwich Mean Time (GMT).

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Meet Your Iceland Adventure Vacation Guides

Iceland Adventure Stories

Why Travel With Us

benefit-group-size-v2

Just-right group sizes allow you to get off the beaten path

With an average of 12 guests per departure and an industry-leading average 6:1 guest-to-guide ratio, you’ll enjoy a highly personalized experience.

benefit-guides-v2

Award-winning guides lead the way

It’s so much easier to relax and enjoy your adventure when you have fun, caring guides who know the land, sweat all the details and whip up incredible meals, too!

benefit-all-inclusive

You’ll never need to sweat the details

When we say all inclusive, we mean it! Meals and snacks, activities, lodging, transportation, guiding services and more. All you need to do is show up!

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Enjoy freedom to push your boundaries – safely

Every aspect of your trip is thoroughly considered for your safety, from highly vetted partners and well-maintained equipment to extensively trained guides.

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Decades of expertise mean you’ll experience only the best

Family travel and North American National Parks are our specialty. We’ve perfected our itineraries for decades, ensuring you'll experience your destination to the fullest.

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"Wow Moments” take your trip from enjoyable to extraordinary

For us, the extra mile is never extra, it’s part of the way! Count on special touches throughout your trip that will amplify your experience.