Northern Lights Escape

Intrepid Travel · 6 days
Northern Lights Escape
Northern Lights Escape
Northern Lights Escape
Northern Lights Escape
Northern Lights Escape
Northern Lights Escape
Northern Lights Escape
Northern Lights Escape
Northern Lights Escape
Northern Lights Escape
Northern Lights Escape
Northern Lights Escape
Northern Lights Escape
Northern Lights Escape
Northern Lights Escape
Northern Lights Escape
Northern Lights Escape
Northern Lights Escape
Northern Lights Escape
Northern Lights Escape
6 Days
From AUD $3225
Trip Type
Small Group
Activity Level
Light

Rating


(20 reviews)

Northern Lights Escape

Northern Lights Escape

Intrepid Travel · 6 days
Duration

6 days

Tour Type

Small Group

Accommodations

Moderate

Physical Rating

Light

Guide Language

English

Experience Overview

Gurgling hot springs, cascading waterfalls, extinct (and live) volcanoes and Europe’s biggest glacier – this is Iceland! On a six-day adventure, you’ll discover the raw natural beauty of this Nordic wonderland, getting up close to epic glacial sheaths, feeling the icy spray of the Gullfoss Waterfall and becoming acquainted with the culture and cuisine of an Arctic island outpost unlike any other. Spend the days hiking, waterfall chasing and soaking in the gorgeous landscapes, and spend the nights searching for the Northern Lights.

Highlights

  • Follow the scenic Golden Circle, visiting geothermal springs, colourful geysers and the mighty waterfall of Gullfoss.
  • Drive along the island’s spectacular South Shore, past the Reynisdrangar Rocks and volcanic black sand beaches.
  • Head to Skaftafell National Park and get adventurous with a hike to Vatnajokull – Europe's largest glacier!
  • Try to spot the Aurora Borealis – the best lightshow on Earth! Stay up late to see the northern sky dance with green light (subject to weather conditions and activity), with a local leader by your side to help you get the best opportunities.
  • Wander around the arts and dining scene of Reykjavik – you'll walk around the city's old harbour and the famous Hallgrimskirkja church of Iceland's capital with your leader. Then, maybe check out the music scene or hang out at the pub.

Trip Details

Duration

6 days

Transportation

Private minibus with free Wi-Fi

Tour Type

Small Group

Guide Language

English

Starts

Reykjavik, Iceland

Finishes

Reykjavik, Iceland

Accommodations

Moderate

Travel Style

Explorer

Physical Rating

Light

Itinerary

1
Day 1: Reykjavik
Hallo! Welcome to Iceland. Your adventure begins in the world's northernmost capital of Reykjavik, just below the Arctic Circle. Surrounded by volcanic peaks and crystalline ocean, the city boasts a vibrant arts and nightlife scene. Meet your travel group and leader and a welcome meeting at 6 pm tonight. If you arrive early, maybe spend the afternoon exploring downtown, home to boutiques, cosy cafes and art galleries. Maybe visit the National Museum to learn about the history of Iceland from the 9th century, when the first Vikings from mainland Scandinavia arrived and settled. Tonight, maybe head out to dinner and get to know your new fellow travellers.
2
Day 2: Reykjavik to Hvolsvollur
Depart Reykjavik early this morning and follow the route of the Golden Circle. Visit Pingvellir National Park – the site of Iceland's first parliament, founded in AD 930 and a geological wonder, where the American and Eurasian tectonic plates are pulling apart. If you notice a big ridge of water in the landscape, you’re probably looking at the Silfra fissure! Next, head to Iceland's Geysir geothermal area, where you'll see the Strokkur geyser shoot water 30 m into the air. Witness the sheer power of the Gullfoss Waterfall (also known as Golden Falls) before continuing to the Hvolsvollur Valley, where you'll spend the night on an Icelandic farm that’s been converted into a guesthouse. Far away from the city lights, the guesthouse is an ideal base to try and spot the Northern Lights. If the skies are clear tonight, why not take a stroll out into the snow and look skywards for the dancing green lights.

Included Activities:

  • Golden Circle - Thingvellir National Park
  • Golden Circle - Strokkur Geysir
  • Golden Circle - Gullfoss Waterfall

Optional Activities:

  • Fludir - Secret Lagoon (4200 ISK)
3
Day 3: Hvolsvollur to Gerði
Start the day with a trip to Iceland’s biggest waterfall – Skogafoss. Walk up to the scenic viewpoint and on a sunny day you should be able to sport a rainbow or two in the spray. Continue along Iceland’s South Short to discover the stepping-stone rock formations of Reynisdrangar, the promontory of Dyrholaey, the rugged volcanic sea stacks and the seemingly endless black sand beach of Reynisfjara. This afternoon, visit the Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon – a sea of floating iceberg where blues contrast with the sand’s charcoal. Stop for the night at a farm stay on the South Coast. Weather permitting, there will be another opportunity to step outside and witness the natural wonders of the Northern Lights tonight.

Included Activities:

  • Jokulsarlon - Glacier Lagoon
  • Skogafoss - Waterfall Visit
  • South Coast - Dyrholaey Viewpoint
4
Day 4: Gerði to Vik
Hike Europe’s biggest ice cap, Vatnajokull, which has around 30 glaciers flowing out of it. As you walk, see firsthand the glacial movements and formation changes due to the dramatic effects of climate change on the retreating glacier. Alternatively, you can walk the glacier’s tongue or return to the glacial lagoon at Jokulsarlon or Fjallsarlon. If you would prefer a more relaxing morning, you can explore the farm stay and head to the Thorbergur Centre. Later, journey to the black sand town of Vik and see the most southerly mainland settlement with the sea on one side and high cliffs on the other.

Included Activities:

  • Vatnajokull - Glacier Hike
5
Day 5: Reykjavik
Head to the Seljalandsfoss Waterfall, then begin your journey back to Reykjavik. When you arrive in t he city, take a short walk to the old harbour, the city centre and the Hallgrimskirkja Church. After, maybe browse some of the city's great art galleries or head for a soak in the geothermal waters of the famous Blue Lagoon. If you haven't seen the Northern Lights yet, you could head out of town to chase them again this evening. Tonight, maybe gather your fellow adventurers and celebrate the end of the adventure with dinner.

Included Activities:

  • Reykjavik - Leader-led walking tour

Optional Activities:

  • Reykjavik - Settlement Exhibition (3000 ISK)
  • Reykjavik - Saga Museum (3600 ISK)
  • Reykjavik - Whales of Iceland Museum (4300 ISK)
  • Reykjavik - Maritime Museum (2450 ISK)
  • Reykjavik - Harpa Concert Hall - Free
  • Reykjavik - Perlan Museum (5990 ISK)
6
Day 6: Reykjavik
There are no further activities scheduled after breakfast today and it’s time to say 'sjaumst'. If you'd like to extend your stay and book yourself on a Silfra Fissure snorkelling adventure, just get in touch with your booking agent ahead of time.

Optional Activities:

  • Reykjavik - Silfra Fissure Snorkelling Day Trip inc return transfer from Reykjavik (28490 ISK)
  • Nautholsvík - Thermal Beach - Free
  • Reykjavik - Lava Tunnel Tour (13900 ISK)
  • Reykjanes Peninsula - Blue Lagoon inc return transfer (23280 ISK)
Exclusions
  • Flights to and from origin and destinations
  • Airport transfers (arrival and departure)
  • Anything else not explicitly listed in tour inclusions
  • Recommended gratuities/tipping
  • Optional activities/tours
  • Personal expenses
  • Travel insurance
  • Visas, meals and beverages not stated in the list of inclusions.
Important Information
Meals

When meals are not included, your tour leader (where available) will be happy to help with restaurant recommendations, bookings, and directions. Please let us know if you have any dietary needs or preferences. We willdo our best to accommodate these, though we cannot guarantee that every request can be met.

Luggage

You are responsible for your personal belongings throughout the tour. You will need to carry your own bags between the vehicle and your hotel room. Drivers will assist with loading and unloading luggage from the vehicle.

Mobility

Travellers requiring wheelchair access should contact our sales and service team, who can make enquiries on your behalf.

Fitness Level

This tour requires an Average level of fitness. Activities are paced gently and include leisure time. You may be expected to join guided walks of up to one hour, navigate short stairways and mild inclines, and manage your own luggage. You should also be able to board and exit all transport without assistance.

Travellers are expected to be self-sufficient and capable of handling all aspects of their journey. Please discuss your circumstances and support needs with your booking agent to confirm this trip is suitable.

If you are unsure, we recommend consulting your doctor before booking or travelling. (Note: I assume each tour has a different description depending on level of fitness required).

Sightseeing

If a planned site visit is unavailable due to changes in operating hours or holiday closures, the itinerary may be altered, or a comparable activity will be substituted where possible and subject to availability.

Visas

Visa conditions can change. Once you receive your travel documents, check with the relevant embassy, consulate, or immigration office of your destination for the latest information.

  • It is your responsibility to ensure you have the correct and valid travel documents and to comply with all entry requirements.
  • Non-Australian citizens must also confirm visa and identification requirements with the appropriate consulate or visa agency.
  • Certain occupations (for example, journalists, government officials, or those working in charities) may face additional restrictions when applying for visas, which could affect the type of application required.
Departure Dates & Surcharges: See checkout for live dates and availability.
AUD $3,225
(Tour only)
Per Person Twin Share

Duration: 6 days

Trip Type: Small Group

Activity Level: Light

Price based on per person in Double Room for departure 15 Jan 2026

Customer Reviews

Overall Rating
Excellent
4.5
Guide
Excellent
4.5
Itinerary
Excellent
4.5
Accommodations
Excellent
4.5
Transportation
Excellent
4.5
Tour Operator
Excellent
4.5
Food
Excellent
4.5
4.5
John
Traveled, March 2024

04/01/2024

Absolutely fantastic tour led by an amazing leader in Stefan who blended a deep passion for his country with wit, humour and top organizational skills. Some breathtaking sights and experiences!

4.0
Jane
Traveled, March 2024

03/23/2024

A well organized trip in a very comfortable minibus leaving you to relax and enjoy the scenery. Outstanding views which change every hour giving a diverse experience of this wonderful country. Our best holiday ever!

Tour Operator

Intrepid Travel is a global adventure travel company, dedicated to providing sustainable, experience-rich travel opportunities. They’ve been the leader in ethical, small-group travel since 1989 - taking people around the world for more than 30 years. They’re the world’s largest travel B Corporation - dedicated to being the best travel company for the world. In 2002, they established The Intrepid Foundation so their travellers could make a lasting impact on the communities they had visited. Although Intrepid Travel absorbs all administrative costs of The Intrepid Foundation, they are separate legal entities, allowing The Intrepid Foundation to grow independently. Intrepid Travel is made up of a collection of tour operator brands and 28 destination management companies all united by one vision: To change the way we all see the world.

In Business Since 1989