Amazing 5-Day Northern Lights Winter Vacation Package in Iceland with Ice Caving & the Blue Lagoon
Description
Summary
Description
Included
Destinations
Reykjavik / 3 nights
Southeast Iceland / 1 nightMap
Attractions
Activities
Travel details
Round-trip airport transfers
Round-trip airport transfers
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Day 1 – Reykjavik
- Reykjavik - Arrival day
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Your extraordinary adventure takes off as soon as you set foot in Iceland.
Starting from Keflavik International Airport, you'll be whisked away through the surreal lava-filled landscapes of the Reykjanes Peninsula, immersing yourself in the lunar-like surroundings. Soon enough, you'll reach your comfortable accommodation nestled in downtown Reykjavik.
Should your flight arrive early, you'll have the opportunity to detour to Reykjanes' desolate lava field and indulge in the soothing waters of the Blue Lagoon spa before arriving in the city. With its mesmerizing azure hue, this geothermal spa offers warm relaxation all year round, while its natural silica mud works wonders for your skin. It's the perfect way to unwind and rejuvenate after a long flight.
If your flight arrives later in the day, the trip to the Blue Lagoon will be rescheduled for another time. Instead, you can spend your first evening embracing the Nordic ambiance in Reykjavik, the northernmost capital in the world.
Explore the charming streets adorned with colorful buildings and captivating street art. Engage with friendly locals and sample the delectable Icelandic cuisine at one of the city's numerous eateries.
In the evening, an enchanting northern lights tour awaits you, completely complimentary. You'll have the option to embark on a bus adventure, venturing into the untamed Icelandic wilderness to witness the ethereal dance of the auroras.
Alternatively, you can board a boat at Reykjavik's Old Harbor, setting sail in pursuit of these enchanting lights in green, pink, and white hues. As you glide across the calm waters, away from the city's light pollution, the dark canvas of the night sky offers an unparalleled backdrop for this natural phenomenon, making it an unforgettable experience.
After an unforgettable night of chasing the northern lights, you'll retire to your accommodation in Reykjavik, eagerly anticipating the wonders that await you in the days ahead.
Accommodation
Experiences
Day 2 – Reykjavik
- Reykjavik
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- Thingvellir National Park
- Geysir geothermal area
- Gullfoss waterfall
- More
Today, you'll admire Iceland's most visited natural attractions on the Golden Circle driving route. From Reykjavik, you'll be whisked away on a minibus to the first site of the day, the historic Thingvellir National Park. Iceland's parliament was founded here over a thousand years ago.
Thingvellir National Park is neither located on the Eurasian tectonic plate nor the North American one but in a rift valley between the two plates. As the continents drift apart, they tear up the landscape, causing cracks and fissures in the region.
Those with a sense of adventure who are comfortable in the water and able to swim can choose to go on a snorkeling tour in Silfra, a fissure located on the boundaries of the two continents. The crystal clear waters of Silfra provide an unparalleled experience as the visibility in the water can reach up to 328 feet (100 meters).
Next is the Geysir geothermal area, home to the erupting hot spring Strokkur. Strokkur spews geothermal water every few minutes, creating a high water column that reaches 49-66 feet (15-20 meters) in the air. Be sure to bring a camera because a selfie in front of the great Strokkur is a must.
The Golden Circle takes its name from the Golden Waterfall, Gullfoss, one of Iceland's most stunning waterfalls, and your next destination today. It looks even more breathtaking in the wintertime as the white water thunders through blocks of ice and snow.
You can add a tour to Langjokull glacier during the booking process, which feeds the waterfall Gullfoss. There, you'll hop on a snowmobile and race across the white expanse of the glacier.
Animal lovers can also rejoice as you can book a horse riding tour through the Icelandic countryside today. Icelandic horses are renowned for being friendly and gentle, so this excursion is suitable for beginners and expert riders.
After this amazing trip, you'll return to the city to unwind and spend another night at your Reykjavik accommodation.
Accommodation
Experiences
Day 3 – Southeast Iceland
- Southeast Iceland
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- Seljalandsfoss Waterfall
- Skogafoss waterfall
- Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon
- Reynisfjara black sand beach
- Reynisdrangar Sea Stacks
- Skaftafell Nature Reserve
- More
The South Coast of Iceland is filled with breathtaking wonders. Today, you'll start your two-day trip along it.
First, you'll see Seljalandsfoss waterfall, a stunning high and narrow cascade that falls over a 203-foot (62-meter) cliff face. Behind the curtain of falling water, a large cave is visible, and in the winter, this majestic waterfall is illuminated by strong lights.
From there, you'll visit Skogafoss, a wholly different but equally beautiful waterfall. Skogafoss is bigger than Seljalandsfoss and has a more classic shape. The land underneath the cascade is very flat, allowing visitors to walk right up to the wall of water.
You'll then continue your journey to the black sand beach of Reynisfjara near the village of Vik. Out in the North-Atlantic surf stand the imposing dark rock stacks of Reynisdrangar, watching as the heavy waves crash upon the shore.
You'll then continue further east, past a vast extension of black lava sand plains resulting from a single volcanic eruption. As you continue your journey, the impressive Vatnajokull glacier will start to appear.
You'll stop at Skaftafell nature reserve, an oasis between white sheets of ice and black sands. It's located under the mighty Vatnajokull glacier, and from here, you can see Iceland's highest peak, the 6923-foot (2110-meter) high Hvannadalshnukur.
Finally, it's time to head to the stunning Jokulsarlon glacier lagoon. Icebergs from a nearby glacier break off and fall into the lagoon, floating on the serene water before drifting off to the ocean. Close by is Diamond beach, where ice blocks from the lagoon have washed up on shore and glisten in the sunlight.
To finish the day with even more spectacular nature, look up into the night sky for a chance to spot the elusive northern lights.
You'll then spend the night in comfortable accommodation in Southeast Iceland.
Experiences
Day 4 – Reykjavik
- Reykjavik
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- Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon
- Diamond Beach
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Today is filled with rare and extraordinary experiences as you journey to a natural ice cave. Your day begins by boarding a spacious and robust vehicle called a 'super jeep,' designed to conquer the challenging terrain leading to the ice cave. Brace yourself for an adventure like no other!
Ice caves hold a special allure, and the fact that they are only accessible from November until March each year makes this excursion all the more exceptional. These captivating caves come in various sizes and shapes, changing their formations daily. When the lighting conditions are just right, they reveal their true splendor, adorned in an array of electric blue hues that will leave you in awe.
Today, your expert guide will lead you to one of the incredible ice caves within the Vatnajokull glacier. Depending on the conditions, you’ll either explore the majestic and remote Western Ice Cave or the impressive and easily accessible Eastern Ice Cave. Your guide will ensure the best option available becomes your unforgettable adventure.
After losing yourself in the breathtaking beauty of the ice cave, it's time to make your way back to Reykjavik. However, the adventure doesn't end there.
During your return journey, a stop at Jokulsarlon glacier lagoon awaits. This magnificent lagoon showcases a different facet of its beauty in the midday light. Keep a keen eye out for seals basking lazily on the floating icebergs, a welcome addition to the picturesque scene.
As you return to the city, don't forget to remain vigilant for the captivating northern lights. They can surprise and enchant observers at the most unexpected moments. If luck is on your side, you might witness their celestial dance in the dark Icelandic sky, providing a fitting grand finale to your eventful trip.
Finally, as the day draws to a close, you'll spend your last night in accommodations nestled in the heart of Reykjavik. If you still possess energy and enthusiasm, consider exploring the city's vibrant nightlife scene, which offers various entertainment options to suit every taste.
Reflect on the unforgettable memories created during your time in Iceland as you prepare to bid farewell to this magical land.
Accommodation
Day 5 – Reykjavik
- Reykjavik - Departure day
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Now, it's time to bid farewell to Iceland. If your flight leaves late, you can use the time to explore the wonders of Reykjavik. Make the most of your proximity to the vibrant city center and discover many museums, cafes, galleries, restaurants, designer shops, and bars.
Reykjavik also has many public outdoor pools that are warm all year round, so you can relax in a sauna, soak in a hot tub and meet the locals. Treat yourself to an Icelandic hot dog afterward.
You can also admire the architecture of Hallgrimskirkja church and take in the incredible view of the city and its nearby mountains from its tower. With its unique design inspired by Iceland's basalt lava columns, this Lutheran church stands as a beacon in Reykjavik's skyline. The church's minimalist interior, coupled with its striking pipe organ, further enhances its serene atmosphere.
Afterward, explore Reykjavik's quirky shops and marvel at the street art. As you wander through the city, stroll along the scenic waterfront, absorbing the picturesque views of the bay, the mountains, and the colorful houses that give Reykjavik its unique charm.
An iconic spot in Reykjavik is the Sun Voyager sculpture, a striking steel artwork symbolizing discovery and freedom beautifully positioned against the backdrop of the sea. After admiring it, enjoy a short walk and sit down for a nice cup of coffee or hot chocolate in Harpa, Reykjavik's concert hall, with a view over the old harbor.
If you're intrigued by Iceland's literary history, consider visiting the Culture House, which showcases the sagas and manuscripts chronicling early Icelandic history.
If you didn't have the chance to go to the Blue Lagoon spa on your arrival day, you could visit today before you head to the airport for your departure. Soaking in the spa's warm, mineral-rich waters is your vacation's perfect, relaxing finish.
You'll head to the airport with plenty of time for your flight home. We wish you a pleasant journey and hope to see you again soon.
Experiences
What to bring
Good to know
The northern lights are a natural phenomenon and, therefore, cannot be guaranteed, but this itinerary is designed to maximize your chances to see them if the weather allows. Please know that your itinerary may have to be rearranged to fit your arrival date and time better and that breakfast may not be included in a few selected hostels and guesthouses.
Some optional activities might need a valid driver's license, or you might need to send additional information to your travel planner.
Those who opt to go snorkeling must be comfortable in the water, must know how to swim, and must present medical documents before snorkeling or diving.
It can happen, in the case of extreme weather, that an activity is canceled. If your chosen activity is canceled, we will assist you with rearranging or booking other activities when possible, and any potential price difference will be refunded to you.
Note that Icelandic roads and pavements can be slippery in the wintertime. We recommend you bring shoes with slip-resistant soles or ice-grip shoe covers. The covers can be purchased in most supermarkets and gas stations nationwide.
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