Based on our own experience and the many tips we have received from enthusiastic holidaymakers, we have compiled the most famous highlights of Iceland for you !
We fly comfortably to the island of fire and ice and land in Keflavík. Our friendly and competent, English-speaking cultural tour guide warmly welcomes us at the airport. We drive to our modern hotel in the Reykjavík area, where we spend the first night in comfort.
On our way north, we drive through the Borgarfjörður fjord, home to Icelandic myths & legends, and visit Reykholt, home to the famous poet Snorri Sturluson. The fascinating natural idyll impresses us with the picturesque lava waterfall Hraunfossar, where glacial water flows in many cascades into the river Hvitá, and the well-known hot spring Deildartunguhver, considered the largest in Europe. Crossing a mountain pass heading north, we reach the Skagafjörður region, popular for horse breeding in Iceland. We immerse ourselves in the traditions of rural life with a visit to the turf farmhouse Glaumbær (admission included). We spend the next two nights in Akureyri.
After a relaxing night in the cultural city of Akureyri, we have a fantastic, optional full-day excursion to one of North Iceland’s most famous attractions: The beautiful Mývatn Lake. We pass the impressive Goðafoss on the way, which means ‘Waterfall of the Gods‘ in English. According to legend, the pagan idols were thrown into the water here when Iceland converted to Christianity. Upon arrival at Mývatn Lake, we see the diversity of the dreamy volcanic landscapes – an unforgettable experience. The craters of Skútustaðir were formed by explosive steam eruptions, and the solfatara fields at Námaskarð with steaming sulphur springs offer a magical backdrop. We also explore the central volcano Krafla. Finally, we proceed to the lava labyrinth Dimmuborgir – meaning ‘Dark castles’ in English – with its bizarre rock formations.
After breakfast, we will visit the charming harbour town of Húsavík on the north coast, known as Iceland’s ‘Whale watching capital’. Here you have the unique, optional opportunity to take a 3-hour whale tour aboard traditional oak boats and observe, among others, minke and humpback whales. Afterwards, we will all travel together to Jökulsárgljúfur National Park, where the mighty Dettifoss Waterfall awaits us. With a drop of 144 ft, it plunges thunderously into an impressive canyon, dramatically demonstrating the power of nature. Our route continues through the lunar landscape of Möðrudalur along the uninhabited highlands, until we reach Egilsstaðir on Lagarfljót Lake. According to legend, the lake is home to a sea monster similar to that of Loch Ness. This tranquil region, known as the ‘Gateway to the East Fjords’, also boasts Iceland’s largest forest, Hallormsstaðaskógur, a green paradise in the extraordinary Icelandic idyll. We will spend a comfortable night in this peaceful area.
On the fifth day, we explore the picturesque east coast. The road winds fjord by fjord through spectacular landscapes with breathtaking views of steep slopes and deep blue water. We experience idyllic fishing villages such as Djúpivogur, where the seafaring tradition remains alive. Traditional farms also offer insights into the original way of life. A highlight is the interesting exhibition in Stöðvarfjörður (admission included), where Petra Sveinsdóttir has assembled an impressive collection of rare stones and minerals. We round off this special day in Höfn and enjoy an overnight stay in our beautiful comfort hotel.
In the morning, we continue our exploration to Vatnajökull, Europe‘s largest glacier, which is located in the national park of the same name and is a UNESCO World Natural Heritage Site. The gigantic mass of ice offers a unique spectacle of nature. We drive along Iceland’s spectacular coast, passing impressive glacier tongues that stretch through the landscape like rivers of ice. Upon arrival at Jökulsárlón, we can see how the mighty Vatnajökull extends into the crystal-clear lagoon. Here, a wonderful optional boat trip awaits you, taking you between blue shimmering icebergs – guaranteed to be a highlight of your cultural tour. Afterwards, Skaftafell National Park welcomes us with a colourful contrast: The magnificently green slopes appear like an oasis between the white, majestic glaciers and offer breathtaking photo opportunities through the interplay of ice and greenery. Across the glacier’s vast sandur plains, our cultural tour continues to Vík, where we relax and spend the night.
Today we begin with a visit to the famous Skógafoss Waterfall, the characteristic landmark of the small village of Skógar, which offers an impressive panoramic view. We continue on to Seljalandsfoss, a unique natural wonder that allows us to view the roaring masses of water from behind, through a rocky niche – a truly unforgettable sight. After enjoying these ‘Wonders of the south’, we travel on to the attractions of the ‘Golden Circle’. Here we discover the well-known Geysir geothermal area with the active Strokkur Geyser, which shoots an impressive column of steam and water into the sky approximately every ten minutes. Not far away is the Gullfoss Waterfall, which plunges powerfully into a deep canyon and, when the sun shines, displays a charming rainbow in the mist. Now we experience the crowning finale of our cultural tour: Þingvellir National Park (UNESCO World Heritage). We walk in the footsteps of the Vikings, who founded the world’s oldest parliament here in the 10ᵗʰ century. In addition, the distinctive dividing line between the Eurasian and North American plates runs here, visible in numerous deep fissures. Their drifting apart quite literally keeps Iceland in motion. In the evening, we return to Reykjavík, where we spend the night.
After a dreamy and eventful week of our cultural tour, we bid farewell. With wonderful memories of Iceland’s diverse natural wonders, we fly back home contentedly.
The package includes the full-day excursion ‘Mývatn Lake & ‘Waterfall of the Gods’ Goðafoss’, the whale watching boat tour in Húsavík, and the boat tour through the glacier lagoon Jökulsárlón: only £259 p. p.
Solo travellers are warmly welcome – single room surcharge: £749 p. p. (subject to availability)
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Reykjavík | 3 | 4 | 5 | 8 | 12 | 14 | 12 | 8 | 6 | 6 | 3 | 2 |
| London | 6 | 8 | 9 | 11 | 15 | 20 | 21 | 20 | 19 | 15 | 10 | 7 |
Below is an information overview. The conditions of entry, as well as the political and health situation, can change anywhere in the world at any time. We therefore recommend checking the website of the Foreign Office (www.gov.uk) before your departure.
Iceland, the westernmost country in Europe, is an island nation in the North Atlantic, between Greenland and Norway, south of the Arctic Circle, and is part of the Mid-Atlantic Ridge.
Reykjavík
Parliamentary democratic republic
Predominantly Protestant (Evangelical Lutheran)
Icelandic is the national language. English and Danish are widely spoken.
Subarctic maritime climate with cool summers and relatively mild winters; frequent weather changes due to the influence of the Gulf Stream and cold currents from Greenland.
In Iceland, Central European Time (CET) -1 applies all year round without summer-winter time changes. The time difference to the UK is -1 hour in summer and, in winter, there is no difference.
230 volts alternating current, 50 hertz. An adapter is not required.
The dialling code for long-distance calls from the UK to Iceland is 00354 (+354). For calls to the UK, dial 0044 (+44) first. The 0 before the area code is omitted in each case.
The island nation with around 357,000 inhabitants is considered one of the most sparsely populated countries in Europe. The majority of the population lives in the coastal regions and the Greater Reykjavík area, while vast parts of the country remain uninhabited. The residents are descendants of Nordic and Celtic settlers, and the Icelandic language has changed very little over the centuries. Icelandic culture is strongly community-oriented, with an emphasis on education and social welfare. Art and literature are significant cultural practices, inspired by the impressive natural surroundings of glaciers and volcanoes. A distinctive feature of Icelandic society is its close connection with nature, which is deeply rooted in everyday life and traditions. Protestant values, especially from the Evangelical Lutheran Church, influence the culture and promote social cohesion. With almost uninterrupted daylight in summer and very short days in winter, the social and cultural dynamics adapt accordingly, strengthening the community through creative and communal winter activities. Fishing remains a central economic sector, shaping both nutrition and economic development.
Tipping recommendation (in GBP): It is not customary in Iceland to give tips for hotel service or in restaurants. For group tours, it is recommended to give the tour guide approximately £5 per person per day, and the same for the bus driver. Of course, it is entirely up to each individual whether and how much they would like to give as a tip.
Iceland follows Schengen area rules. British citizens can travel to countries in the Schengen area for up to 90 days in any 180-day period without a visa. When travelling into the Schengen area, you must meet certain requirements. Your ‘British citizen’ passport must be:
• Less than 10 years old on the day you enter (check the ‘date of issue’)
• Valid for at least 3 months after the day you plan to leave (check the ‘expiry date’)
Since 12 October 2025, the new Entry / Exit System (EES) of the European Union has been in force. When travelling into and out of the Schengen area, for short stays, you may need to register your biometric details and answer the Schengen Border Code questions. EES may take each passenger a few extra minutes to complete so longer waiting queues can be expected. For more information, please visit: https://travel-europe.europa.eu/ees.
In addition, the ETIAS (European Travel Information and Authorisation System) is expected to come into force at the end of 2026. This is valid for three years or until the expiry date of the passport (whichever comes first) and entitles the holder to stays of up to 90 days in a 180-day period. Further information on fees, requirements and how to apply for ETIAS can be found on the official website: https://travel-europe.europa.eu/etias.
Nationals of other countries are advised to inquire at the Icelandic Embassy about the entry requirements applicable to them. Whilst we endeavour to provide guidance where necessary, we can not be responsible for any problems encountered (whether at any point of entry or elsewhere) in the event that passport and visa requirements are not satisfied. For more information, please visit https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/.
Your expert tour guides will be able to provide you with detailed information about the country, people, history, culture, etc., and offer advice and assistance for organising your trip. They can also help with room allocation and look forward to welcoming you with initial information. Here you will find out all you need to know and useful information about the trip. We have put together a varied programme including numerous highlights, enabling you to experience the culture and diversity of landscape that Iceland has to offer, and learn all about the country and its people.
Although your trip already includes a comprehensive package, you also have the option of choosing added extras. We recommend booking the following packages:
Explorer package: The package includes the full-day excursion ‘Mývatn Lake & ‘Waterfall of the Gods’ Goðafoss’, the whale watching boat tour in Húsavík, and the boat tour through the glacier lagoon Jökulsárlón: only £259* p. p.
* Please note that the package can only be booked up to 28 days before arrival.
The currency unit is the Icelandic króna (ISK). 1 ISK = 100 Aurar. Exchange rate (June 2026): 1 ISK = 0.01 GBP; 1 GBP = 165.81 ISK; coins smaller than 1 króna are no longer legal tender. Prices are given in whole krónas.
It is advisable to exchange GBP for ISK on site, as exchange rates are often more favourable. Money can be exchanged at bureaux de change/banks (during the week), or at the airport. Larger amounts should preferably be withdrawn directly from cash machines to avoid unfavourable exchange rates. In Iceland, you can withdraw cash from ATMs bearing the Cirrus logo using your debit card (EC card) or credit card. Both your local bank and Icelandic banks may charge fees. A travel credit card can be a cost-effective alternative, as it allows free cash withdrawals. Cashless payment is widespread; credit cards are generally accepted everywhere and require the entry of a PIN. Nevertheless, it is advisable to always carry a small amount of cash. For possible fees when using your card abroad, please contact your bank.
Iceland is not part of the European Union (EU) in terms of customs law and is not a member of the EU Customs Union. For basic customs regulations regarding the import of goods and foreign currency into Iceland, please refer to the website of Icelandic Customs (www.skatturinn.is/english/individuals/customs-matters/travelling-to-iceland/). Only there can you obtain legally binding information. Foreign currencies may be imported and exported without restriction, while the Icelandic krona may only be imported and exported up to 8,000 ISK. Amounts from £8,500 must be declared to customs. Duty-free allowances per person aged 20 and over are 1 litre of spirits, 0.75-1.5 litres of wine, 3-12 litres of beer, 200 cigarettes. Foodstuffs may be imported up to a maximum of 10 kg (up to 25,000 ISK / approx. £250); raw meat, eggs and milk are prohibited. Fishing equipment must be disinfected, riding clothing must be cleaned; saddles and leather accessories must be new and in their original packaging.
More detailed customs information on importing goods can be obtained from the embassy of your destination country. Only there will you receive legally binding information.
Important: If you are travelling to Great Britain from outside the UK, your personal allowances mean you can bring in a certain amount of goods without paying tax or duty. If you go over your allowances you must declare all your goods and pay tax and duty on all the goods in that category. Please inform yourself about the current customs regulations: www.gov.uk/bringing-goods-intouk-personal-use/arriving-in-Great-Britain.
The crime rate in Iceland is generally low, but pickpocketing does occur in tourist areas such as Reykjavik city centre and the Golden Circle. Be particularly vigilant and keep important documents safe by also making electronic copies. Prefer cashless payments and carry only the necessary amount of cash, as well as no conspicuous valuables. In larger crowds, such as airports and on public transport, you should keep an eye on your valuables. Additionally, be cautious of unusual emails or phone calls and verify their credibility before sharing personal information. Iceland is a very safe travel destination with low crime, but due to rapidly changing weather conditions, seismic activity and untouched nature, careful planning is required. Wear sturdy clothing in layers, following the onion principle, with wind- and waterproof outer layers, and always respect warning signs and be prepared for natural hazards such as active volcanoes and earthquakes, especially in seismically active areas.
In Iceland, drug possession and consumption are strictly prosecuted and can lead to heavy fines or prison sentences even for small amounts. Alcohol is only available in licensed shops and drinking in public is prohibited. Nature conservation regulations forbid entering protected areas and damaging natural formations, which can also result in heavy penalties. There are also detailed regulations for fishing and hunting, and violations can incur severe penalties. Tourists should familiarise themselves with these rules in order to avoid unintentional breaches of the law and to interact respectfully with the nature and people of Iceland.
At least 8 weeks before your trip, check the latest country-specific health advice from the National Travel Health Network and Centre (NaTHNaC) on the TravelHealthPro website (https://travelhealthpro.org.uk/countries). Each country-specific page has information on vaccine recommendations, any current health risks or outbreaks, and factsheets with information on staying healthy abroad.
Medical care in Iceland is comparable to that in the UK. All persons who are legally insured in the UK are entitled to treatment by doctors, dentists and in hospitals approved by the foreign statutory health insurance provider. Proof must be provided in the form of the European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) or a provisional replacement certificate. Both documents can be obtained from your health insurance provider. Seek medical advice in good time and adjust your vaccination protection accordingly. Take a travel medical kit as well as any medication you need to take regularly with you.
It is strongly recommended to take out international health insurance with the option of medical repatriation to the UK.
Customers must ensure that they are in good physical and mental health in line with the trip in question. Customers must enquire about the physical mobility and psychological autonomy required for this trip.
All information is subject to change / Last updated: June 2026
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