Premium Iceland

Intrepid Travel · 9 days
Premium Iceland
Premium Iceland
Premium Iceland
Premium Iceland
Premium Iceland
Premium Iceland
Premium Iceland
Premium Iceland
Premium Iceland
Premium Iceland
Premium Iceland
Premium Iceland
Premium Iceland
Premium Iceland
Premium Iceland
Premium Iceland
Premium Iceland
Premium Iceland
Premium Iceland
Premium Iceland
Premium Iceland
Premium Iceland
9 Days
From AUD $12380
Trip Type
Small Group
Activity Level
Light

Rating


(23 reviews)

Premium Iceland

Premium Iceland

Intrepid Travel · 9 days
Duration

9 days

Tour Type

Small Group

Accommodations

Unknown

Physical Rating

Light

Guide Language

English

Experience Overview

Explore the beautifully rugged landscapes of Iceland’s western peninsulas with coastal cliffs, centuries-old volcanic glaciers and huge waterfalls on a nine-day Premium adventure.

Includes

Meals: Breakfasts (8), Lunch (1), Dinner (5)
Accommodation: Comfortable hotel (7 nights), Feature stay (1 night)

Highlights

  • Stay in the stylish Fosshotel – your Feature Stay, offering up spectacular views of the surrounding landscape and an excellent onsite restaurant that uses fresh Icelandic produce.
  • Sink into the steamy waters of Laugaras Lagoon, where you can enjoy views of the Hvita River from a sauna tucked away in dense forest.
  • Get to know Iceland’s gentle giants on board a carbon-neutral sailing boat. This Signature Experience allows you to respectfully and silently spot whales with the help of an expert guide.
  • Tuck into some delicious Icelandic dishes with a lobster lunch in Hofn (the ‘lobster capital’), a rye bread tasting and tour of a geothermal bakery that uses the heat of a geyser to bake it and local delicacies like Icelandic schnapps and liver sausage.
  • Deepen your understanding of Icelandic culture with Signature Experiences including a soak in the Deildartunguhver Hot Spring, a visit to a local artist’s stone carving workshop and a tasting session full of Icelandic specialties.
Premium Iceland

Trip Details

Duration

9 days

Transportation

Private Vehicle (Mercedes Benz Sprinter or similar)

Guide Language

English

Starts

Reykjavik, Iceland

Finishes

Reykjavik, Iceland

Accommodations

Unknown

Travel Style

Explorer, Budget

Physical Rating

Light

Itinerary

1
Day 1: Reykjavik
Velkominn! Welcome to Iceland. Your adventure begins in Reykjavik, where you’ll be picked up from the airport by a local representative and transferred to your hotel. You’ll have a welcome meeting at 6 pm to meet your trip leader and fellow travellers. If you arrive early, why not stroll around the world's northernmost capital and visit the National Museum to see the permanent exhibition on the history of Iceland. After your meeting, head out with your leader and small group to get to know Reykjavik’s food scene. Have dinner at one of the city’s fantastic local restaurants and learn about Icelandic produce and cuisine.

Included Activities:

  • Reykjavik - Welcome Dinner
  • Complimentary Arrival Transfer

Accommodation:

  • Sand Hotel or similar (Number of Nights: 1)
2
Day 2: Snaefellsnes National Park
Today, you’ll board a private vehicle and drive to Thingvellir National Park (Parliament Plains). Your leader will explain how this spot is both the original location of Iceland’s first parliament from AD930 and a geological phenomenon. From here, enter the Borgarfjordur area and visit the spectacular waterfalls of Hraunfossar (Lava waterfalls) and Barnafossar (Children’s waterfalls). Continue to Deildartunguhver – Europe’s most powerful hot spring. In the afternoon, head to your overnight stay in the southern part of the Snaefellsnes Peninsula. When you’re settled, meet up with your group for dinner.

Included Activities:

  • Borgarfjordur - Deildartunguhver Hot Spring
  • Golden Circle - Thingvellir National Park (Parliament Plains)
  • Borgarfjordur - Hraunfossar & Barnafoss Waterfalls

Accommodation:

  • Hotel Budir or similar (Number of Nights: 1)
3
Day 3: Snaefellsnes National Park
Today you’ll continue around the Snaefellsnes Peninsula and its glacier Snaefellsjokull – an icecap covering a dormant volcano. Visit the small town of Budir, followed by a stop at the basaltic pebble beaches framed by lava. Then, visit Arnarstapi, where a short stroll along the coastal cliffs gives you access to the rich birdlife of the area. Continue to Grundarfjordur, where you’ll stop by the open-air workshop of local artist Linston to admire his stone carvings. You’ll also take a guided tour of the Glaumbaer Farm and Museum. The farmhouse is built of turf, stones and timber and dates back to the Age of the Settlements (AD900). After, drive to Saudarkrokur in Iceland's north, located on Skagafjordur Fjord. Your home for the night is the family-run Hotel Tindastoll, Iceland’s oldest hotel. Experience a part of Iceland’s history as soon as you step through the door – the hotel’s past is everywhere, from the antique furniture to the original architecture. The hotel also features a courtyard with a thermal hot tub and some pretty incredible surroundings.

Included Activities:

  • Snaefellsnes Peninsula - Snaefellsjokull, Arnarstapi & Stykkisholmur
  • Glaumbaer - Turf Houses visit and guided tour

Accommodation:

  • Hotel Tindastoll Saudarkrokur or similar (Number of Nights: 1)
4
Day 4: Husavik
Drive around the Trollaskagi Peninsula and visit the small fishing town of Siglufjordur. Explore the town centre, dwarfed by towering mountains on three sides with the fjord on its north. Further along the coast, you’ll have the opportunity to dip your toes in the Arctic Ocean before an Icelandic schnapps tasting, accompanied by some local delicacies – think shark, lamb’s head, liver sausage and dried fish. Continue to Hauganes, where you’ll get to know the gentle giants of Iceland’s waters on board a carbon-neutral whale watching tour. Minke and humpback whales are commonly spotted in these parts, and the boat keeps a respectful distance from the whales, allowing you to observe them in their natural environment without disturbing or distressing them. You’ll be joined on board by an expert whale watching guide who will help to spot these beautiful creatures while providing insight on their lives and habitats in Arctic waters. Continue to the town of Akureyri and head out for a leader-led orientation drive when you arrive. Next, drive to the mighty waterfall of Godafoss, also known as The Waterfall of the Gods, before continuing to your hotel in Husavik.

Included Activities:

  • Trollaskagi Peninsula - Siglufjordur
  • Trollaskagi Peninsula - Icelandic Specialties Tasting
  • Myvatn - Godafoss Waterfall
  • Hauganes - Whale Watching Excursion

Accommodation:

  • Berjaya Akureyri Hotel, Forest Lagoon Hotel or similar (Number of Nights: 1)
5
Day 5: Egilsstadir
Start the day with a scenic drive through the Lake Myvatn area – one of the most interesting geological regions in the northern hemisphere. Visit several geological anomalies lining the lake’s shoreline, including the lava labyrinth of Dimmuborgir, the pseudo-crater group at Skutustadir and the boiling mud pots and sulphuric vents of Namaskard. Your leader will be on hand to explain how these natural wonders came to be. Drive via the highlands to your overnight stop at Egilsstadir.

Included Activities:

  • Myvatn - Lake Myvatn scenic drive
  • Myvatn - Namaskard Boiling Mud Pools, Dimmuborgir & Skutustadir Crater Group

Accommodation:

  • Hotel 1001 Nott or similar (Number of Nights: 1)
6
Day 6: Skaftafell National Park
This morning after breakfast, drive along the beautiful coastal region of Iceland's East Fjords, taking in the views of varied landscapes as mountains give way to deep fjords. Make stops along the way at small towns like Djupivogur, which became a member of the cittaslow movement in 2013 and is aiming to be the Happiest Town in Iceland. For lunch, head to the fishing town of Hofn, widely regarded the ‘lobster capital’ of Iceland (an annual lobster festival is held here!). Tuck into dishes like lobster tails grilled in garlic and butter or baked in a white wine sauce and perhaps try some of the other fresh seafood the town is known for. After lunch, drive to the famous Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon for a boat tour on the milky blue waters. Get up close and personal with huge floating icebergs, originating from Vatnajokull – Europe’s largest ice cap. If you’re lucky, you may even spot a seal or two during your boat ride! Later today, you’ll arrive at the Fosshotel Glacier Lagoon – your Feature Stay for this evening. This modern hotel was designed with its surroundings front of mind – spacious rooms with huge windows show off views of the mountains and sea, while the interiors reflect the colours of the world outside.

Included Activities:

  • Jokulsarlon - Glacier Lagoon Boat Ride (seasonal)
  • East Fjords - Scenic Drive
  • Hofn – Lobster Lunch

Accommodation:

  • Fosshotel Glacier Lagoon or (Feature Stay) similar (Number of Nights: 1)
7
Day 7: Hvolsvollur
Visit Vatnajokull National Park today and walk to the tongue of either Skaftafellsjokull or Svinafellsjokull glacier. Drive over the black sands and lava formations caused by the Laki eruption of 1874 – an event that has shaped Iceland's history and culture. Visit the waterfalls of Seljalandsfoss and Skogafoss, then continue to your base for the evening near Hella.

Included Activities:

  • South Coast - Seljalandsfoss & Skogafoss Waterfalls

Accommodation:

  • Landhotel Hella or similar (Number of Nights: 1)
8
Day 8: Reykjavik
From Hella, drive to Laugaras Lagoon – a geothermal spa featuring a waterfall, secluded grotto and two saunas nestled among the forest with views of the Hvita River. Relish in the soothing qualities of the water and savour this chance to take in the beauty of the natural landscapes surrounding you. Next, drive to Gullfoss (the Golden Waterfall) where on a sunny day, you can see rainbows shimmering in the spray above the waterfall. Then, visit the Geysir Geothermal Area to see the spouting hot springs of Geysir (after which all other geysers were named) and Strokkur – the most reliable of the geysers, erupting every ten minutes on average. Your next stop is at Laugarvatn Fontana, where you’ll take a tour of a geothermal bakery. See how traditional rye bread is cooked in a pot buried under the warm black sand near a geyser and taste this fresh, sweet bread for yourself while it’s still warm (with lashings of butter, of course!). Continue to Reykjavik for a short tour with your leader to get to know the main sights of this eclectic city. The evening is free for you to explore the streets of Iceland’s capital – you may like to join your group for a final dinner together to round off your adventure.

Included Activities:

  • Reykjavik - Leader-led walking tour
  • Golden Circle - Thingvellir National Park, Strokkur Geysir & Gullfoss Waterfall
  • Golden Circle - Strokkur Geyser & Gullfoss Waterfall
  • Laugaras - Laugaras Lagoon
  • Laugarvatn - Geothermal Bread Baking Tour

Accommodation:

  • Sand Hotel or similar (Number of Nights: 1)
9
Day 9: Reykjavik
With no activities planned, your adventure comes to an end after breakfast. If you’d like to extend your stay in Reykjavik, just get in touch with your booking agent ahead of time.

Optional Activities:

  • Reykjavik - Perlan Museum (5990 ISK)
  • Reykjavik - Saga Museum (4000 ISK)
  • Reykjavik - Settlement Exhibition (3000 ISK)
  • Reykjavik - Whales of Iceland Museum (4300 ISK)
  • Reykjavik - Harpa Concert Hall - Free
  • Reykjavik - Maritime Museum (2450 ISK)
  • Nautholsvík - Thermal Beach - Free
  • Reykjavik - Lava Tunnel Tour (13900 ISK)
  • Reykjavik - Whale Watching (14500 ISK)
Exclusions
  • Flights to and from origin and destinations
  • Airport transfers (unless otherwise stated)
  • 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 will do 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.

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 $12,380
(Tour only)
Per Person Twin Share

Duration: 9 days

Trip Type: Small Group

Activity Level: Light

Explore the beautifully rugged landscapes of Iceland’s western peninsulas with coastal cliffs, centuries-old volcanic glaciers and huge waterfalls on a nine-day Premium adventure.

Price based on per person in Double Room for departure 01 May 2027

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
Belinda
Traveled, September 2023

11/27/2023

Iceland certainly knows how to leverage the wow-factor. A beautiful country, experienced with a great leader on a cup-filling itinerary. Mother nature at her best. This was the perfect trip to kick-off my extended time-off.

5.0
Michelle
Traveled, August 2023

08/27/2023

We had the most incredible immersive experience in Iceland with Intrepid. Aside from the stunning and unique vistas around every corner, our exceptional guide Gisli treated us to wonderful lessons in culture, zoology, botany, history, politics and many captivating ‘sagas’. Thank you Gisli - you turned this trip into a precious lifetime memory for us all.

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