Iceland Circle & Northern Lights

Iceland Circle & Northern Lights

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Iceland Circle & Northern Lights

8 Days Starting and ending in Reykjavik, Iceland

Visiting: Reykjavik, Akureyri, Egilsstadir, Vatnajokull National Park, Vík

Tour operator:

Travel Talk Tours

Tour code:

ICE8W

Guide Type:

Fully Guided

Group size:

25 - 30

Physical rating:

Easy

Age range:

18-70

Special diets catered:

Vegetarians

Tour operated in:

English

Activities:

Hiking, Sightseeing, Walking

This tour is no longer available

Tour Overview

Embark on an unforgettable journey with the "Iceland Circle & Northern Lights" tour, starting and ending in Reykjavik. This cultural adventure takes you through Iceland's most stunning landscapes, from the volcanic craters and fjords of Akureyri to the geothermal wonders of Lake Myvatn. Enjoy guided hikes, explore charming fishing villages, and relax in the Myvatn Nature Baths. Marvel at the dramatic fjords, glaciers, and black sandy beaches of Vatnajokull National Park, and visit iconic waterfalls like Skogafoss and Seljalandsfoss. Discover the Golden Circle's geysers, waterfalls, and Thingvellir National Park, with an optional Northern Lights evening cruise. Stay in comfort at 3 and 4-star hotels, with daily breakfasts and one welcome dinner included. Transportation is provided in heated coaches, with complimentary Wi-Fi where available.

Highlights

  • Climbing the Grábrók volcano crater

  • Visiting the turf church of Vidimyri

  • Exploring Godafoss, the waterfalls of the Gods

  • Relaxing at Myvatn Nature Baths

  • Hiking in the lava labyrinth at Dimmuborgir

  • Sightseeing at Vatnajokull National Park

  • Walking on the black lava beach of Reynisfjara

  • Visiting the Golden Circle, including Gullfoss Waterfall and Thingvellir National Park

Itinerary

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Day 1: Reykjavik

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Location: Reykjavik

Accommodation Name: Natura Berjaya Iceland Hotels or similar - 4 Star

Welcome to the land of fire and ice! Upon arrival to the airport, your transfer is by FlyBus to take you to your hotel.

As we make our suggestions, the rest of the day is yours to explore the vibrant capital.

AccommodationNatura Berjaya Iceland Hotels or similar - 4 Star

Day 2: Volcano Crater, Seals, Fjords &Amp; Mountains, Akureyri

Location: Akureyri

Accommodation Name: Akureyri Berjaya Iceland Hotels or similar - 3 Star

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

We meet our guide at 09:00 and depart from the hotel to travel west, passing the town of Borgarnes and then climb the Grábrók volcano crater.

Later in the afternoon we visit a natural history & seal museum in a small fishing village in Northwest Iceland and stroll around the local harbor.

Further north we stop at the turf church of Vidimyri, considered one of the purest and most beautiful examples of traditional Icelandic architecture.

We continue along scenic fjord landscape and through mountain passes until we reach the capital of North Iceland, Akureyri, a charming town of 17000 inhabitants.

Welcome Dinner in the evening.

AccommodationAkureyri Berjaya Iceland Hotels or similar - 3 Star MealsBreakfast Included ActivitiesClimbing Volcano CraterSightseeing Icelandic architecture & scenic fjordsWelcome Dinner

Day 3: Akureyri, Lake Myvatn &Amp; Geothermal Baths

Location: Akureyri

Accommodation Name: Mývatn - Berjaya Iceland Hotels or similar - 4 Star

Meals Included: Breakfast

In the morning, we explore Akureyri, visit the botanical garden and enjoy the panoramic view over the breath-taking fjords.

In the afternoon, we explore an important site in Iceland's history, Godafoss, the waterfalls of the Gods.

We arrive at Lake Myvatn for the rest of the day, known for its geological wonders and active bird life in summer.

We see the bizarre lava formations and take a walk around the many pseudo craters, and end the day with a relaxing soak.

Myvatn Nature Baths contain a unique blend of minerals, silicates and geothermal micro-organisms that benefit both skin and spirit alike.

AccommodationMývatn - Berjaya Iceland Hotels or similar - 4 Star MealsBreakfast Included ActivitiesSightseeing of the dark castlesSightseeing of NamaskarSightseeing of East Iceland Optional ActivitiesLunch

Day 4: Lava Labyrinth, Hot Springs &Amp; Egilsstadir

Location: Egilsstadir

Accommodation Name: Hérað Berjaya Iceland Hotels or similar - 3 Star

Meals Included: Breakfast

We kick the morning off hiking in a lava labyrinth at Dimmuborgir “the dark castles”, said to host trolls, keep your eyes open! After an optional lunch, we visit the hot spring area of Námaskard with bubbling mud pools and steaming solfataras.

We drive through the uninhabited vast highlands to East Iceland, Egilsstadir.

If you are lucky you might even see an Arctic fox or see reindeer on the way.

AccommodationHérað Berjaya Iceland Hotels or similar - 3 Star MealsBreakfast Included ActivitiesSightseeing of East IcelandSightseeing of Egilsstadir Optional ActivitiesLunch

Day 5: Fjords &Amp; Glaciers, Vatnajokull Np, Kirkjubajarklaustur

Location: Vatnajokull National Park

Accommodation Name: Fosshotel Glacier Lagoon or similar - 4 Star

Meals Included: Breakfast

Today you will admire the dramatic fjord landscape with tiny fishing villages at the end of twisty roads of fjords.

Past the town of Höfn, we stop at a glacial lagoon filled with floating icebergs to explore the magical region, and perhaps even see seals, or walk on the black sandy beach where large icebergs get stranded.

We travel along the southern part of the glacier and spend time at Europe's largest national park, which has Iceland's highest mountains, an alpine environment, and Europe's largest glacier, Vatnajökull.

We spend the night at Icelandair Hotel Kirkjubæjarklaustur.

AccommodationFosshotel Glacier Lagoon or similar - 4 Star MealsBreakfast Included ActivitiesSightseeing of Europe's 2nd largest national park

Day 6: Waterfalls &Amp; Volcanoes

Location: Vík

Accommodation Name: Stracta Hotel Hella or similar - 3 Star

Meals Included: Breakfast

Get ready for many incredible natural wonders as we head across the Eldhraun lava field, cross the sandy desert of the south coast, overlooked by mountainous cliffs, glaciers and waterfalls.

We stroll along the black lava beach of Reynisfjara near Vík.

In the small village of Skógar there is the impressive 60-metre-high Skógafoss waterfall.

Further west we stop at the Eyjafjallajökull Information Centre to learn about living among glaciers and active volcanoes.

Next, we visit the high and narrow Seljalandsfoss waterfall, and bring along your raincoat! AccommodationStracta Hotel Hella or similar - 3 Star MealsBreakfast Included ActivitiesWalking on the black volcanic beach.

Day 7: Icelandic Horses &Amp; Golden Circle, Reykjavík

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Location: Reykjavik

Accommodation Name: Natura Berjaya Iceland Hotels or similar - 4 Star

Meals Included: Breakfast

Today we visit a must-see of Iceland, the Golden Circle.

Firstly, at Fridheimar, you learn about the Icelandic horse, its special qualities and history and visit a geothermal greenhouse.

Later, we see steam from the Geyser geothermal fields, a variety of hot springs and bubbling pools.

The geyser is now dormant but has been replaced by Strokkur “the Churn” erupting every 5-10 minutes.

Our next stop is Gullfoss, “the golden falls”, an amazing 34-metre-high double waterfall.

We travel inland to Thingvellir National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site, before we make our way back to Reykjavík and an optional Northern Lights evening cruise.

As we arrive, we do a short city tour to show you the highlights of the world's northernmost capital.

AccommodationNatura Berjaya Iceland Hotels or similar - 4 Star MealsBreakfast Included ActivitiesSightseeing Golden CircleGullfos WaterfallThingvellir National Park Optional ActivitiesNorthern Lights evening CruiseCruise - Prices vary, please check online.

Day 8: Reykjavik

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Location: Reykjavik

Meals Included: Breakfast

Our trip will end after we say goodbye to our new friends over breakfast, and check-out of the hotel in Reykjavík.

The FlyBus shuttle will take you back to the airport from your hotel.

MealsBreakfast

What's Included

  • Accommodation

    4 and 3 star, comfort tourist class hotels

  • Meals

    7 Breakfasts & 1 Dinner

  • Transportation

    Transportation in heated coaches

  • Airport Transfer(s)

    Arrival and departure airport transfers by FLYBUS Plus shuttle.

  • Tour Guiding

    Services of local guide from day 2 to day 7, guided hike to Grabrok volcano crater

  • Free Wi-Fi

    Complimentary hotel and coach Wi-Fi (where available)

  • Included Activities

    Climbing Volcano Crater, Sightseeing Icelandic architecture & scenic fjords, Welcome Dinner, Sightseeing of the dark castles, Sightseeing of Namaskar, Sightseeing of East Iceland, Sightseeing of Egilsstadir, Sightseeing of Europe’s 2nd largest national park, Walking on the black volcanic beach, Sightseeing Golden Circle, Gullfos Waterfall, Thingvellir National Park

What's Not Included

Lunch, Northern Lights evening Cruise, Cruise - Prices vary, please check online.

Mode of Transport

Travel in heated coaches with arrival and departure airport transfers provided by FLYBUS Plus shuttle.

Accommodation

Stay in comfort with 4 and 3-star tourist class hotels, including Natura Berjaya Iceland Hotels, Akureyri Berjaya Iceland Hotels, and Fosshotel Glacier Lagoon.

Add Ons

Local Payment: £0

Check out our Q&As

  • What type of accommodation is provided during the tour?

    The tour provides accommodation in 4 and 3 star, comfort tourist class hotels.

  • Are meals included in the tour package?

    Yes, the tour includes 7 breakfasts and 1 dinner.

  • Is transportation provided during the tour?

    Yes, transportation is provided in heated coaches.

  • Are airport transfers included in the tour package?

    Yes, arrival and departure airport transfers by FLYBUS Plus shuttle are included.

  • Will there be a tour guide during the trip?

    Yes, the services of a local guide are provided from day 2 to day 7, including a guided hike to Grabrok volcano crater.

  • Is Wi-Fi available during the tour?

    Complimentary hotel and coach Wi-Fi is available where possible.

  • What activities are included on Day 2 of the tour?

    On Day 2, activities include climbing the Grábrók volcano crater, visiting a natural history and seal museum, strolling around a local harbor, and sightseeing the turf church of Vidimyri and scenic fjords. The day ends with a welcome dinner.

  • What can I expect to see at Lake Myvatn on Day 3?

    At Lake Myvatn, you will see geological wonders, active bird life, bizarre lava formations, and pseudo craters. The day ends with a relaxing soak in the Myvatn Nature Baths.

  • What is special about the Myvatn Nature Baths?

    The Myvatn Nature Baths contain a unique blend of minerals, silicates, and geothermal micro-organisms that benefit both skin and spirit alike.

  • What are the highlights of Day 4?

    Day 4 includes hiking in the lava labyrinth at Dimmuborgir, visiting the hot spring area of Námaskard, and driving through the uninhabited vast highlands to East Iceland, Egilsstadir.

  • What will I see at Vatnajokull National Park on Day 5?

    At Vatnajokull National Park, you will see Iceland's highest mountains, an alpine environment, and Europe's largest glacier. You will also explore a glacial lagoon filled with floating icebergs.

  • What natural wonders are included on Day 6?

    Day 6 includes the Eldhraun lava field, the black lava beach of Reynisfjara, the Skógafoss waterfall, the Eyjafjallajökull Information Centre, and the Seljalandsfoss waterfall.

  • What is the Golden Circle and what will I see there on Day 7?

    The Golden Circle is a must-see in Iceland. You will visit Fridheimar to learn about the Icelandic horse, see the Geyser geothermal fields, the Strokkur geyser, Gullfoss waterfall, and Thingvellir National Park.

  • Is there an optional activity on Day 7?

    Yes, there is an optional Northern Lights evening cruise available on Day 7.

  • How does the tour end on Day 8?

    The tour ends with breakfast and check-out from the hotel in Reykjavik. The FlyBus shuttle will take you back to the airport.

  • Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?

    There are always single travellers on our tours. If you don't mind being roomed with another single traveller of the same gender, then you do not need to pay a single supplement, however, this excludes all of our North American tours where the sharing option for a solo traveller is not available, and the single supplement must be applied if you are travelling alone. The single supplement is for travellers who would like to stay in a private room for the duration of the tour. PLEASE NOTE: The single private option is not always available, especially for sailing tours and camping.

  • Who will be my travelling companions on the tour?

    Our tours are suitable for any traveller above 18 years old. The majority of Travel Talkers are from the United Kingdom, Australia, New Zealand, USA, Canada or Europe, however we always have travellers from all over the world. What brings them together is a passion for travel, discovering authentic cultures and experiencing unique adventures with like-minded travellers.

  • What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?

    At Travel Talk, we believe that travel is a force for good and show our support through various initiatives and charity organizations, as well as keeping the principals of responsible and sustainable travel at the core of our ethos. These values are engrained in our business culture and the design of our trips just the same. Together with our guests, we strive to make a positive impact on local p

  • How long has the tour company been trading?

    Over 20 years

Reviews of this operator

Jessie Mae Sia  

My travel talk experience was great and memorable

24-Feb-2021

My travel talk experience was awesome and fantastic. Me and my husband was on their Morocco and Turkey tours in 2019, they operated their tours in a culturally fun manner and the tour guides were very nice and very approachable. It exceeded our expection, we love to come back with them in our future travel. Thank you travel talk you made our 2019 as one of our memorable year!

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Jes Snowden (Google Reviewer)  

The Best of Turkey by...

10-Sep-2024

The Best of Turkey by Land was fantastic! If it’s a “tour” of Turkey you’re seeking, this one is the pick of them all. We travelled to the most spectacular locations, and experienced breathtaking moments and views, in every stop! Our tour guide Mustafa was very knowledgeable and talked us through the history of the land. He was friendly and very patient, considering the hours he puts into his tours. Mus was able to swap the days activities for some days to ensure we were given the best opportunity for photo’s and leas tourists in other locations. Our bus drivers did an amazing job getting us to all locations safely! Thank you Ahmet & Ali, you are superstars… Highlights for us were Gallipoli, Ephesus, Pamukkale, Fethyie and hot air ballooning in Cappadocia. The group consisted of all ages, which worked out to be a good mix. The weather varied between 25 - 36 degrees throughout the trip, so be sure to pack the sunscreen and portable fan. Hotels varied, each one having it’s own idiosyncrasies, but overall very good. Some of the days were extremely long but we got through them.. I’d recommend this tour to anyone that wants a taste of the beautiful land that Turkey is ☺️

Courtney Godden (Google Reviewer)  

First time doing a tour...

28-Jul-2024

First time doing a tour overseas, wow what an amazing experience. Smaller tour group which was awesome, great hotel choices, professional transportation services and saw the best of Turkey in 12 days. Our tour guide Aykut's hospitality was second to none, he went above and beyond for every member of the group. His knowledge of his country's history and culture was outstanding and explained in a memorable way for a lasting memory. Aykut's has extensive experience as a tour guide and it shows in every way, many special tips from living/growing up in Turkey. Aykut's planning meant everything ran smoothly making our only job to turn up with your belongings and enjoy your experience. Thank you again Aykut for going the extra mile, making sure places had gluten free options for me and for all the funny jokes ☺️

elle mcdowell (Google Reviewer)  

We had an amazing time...

10-Jul-2024

We had an amazing time on our 12 day tour of Turkey! Our guide Yild was attentive, always was there to help us make the most of our trip and great fun! Would definitely recommend this tour to others!!

Stephani Ferrari Dalto (Google Reviewer)  

I’m about to finish my...

18-Oct-2024

I’m about to finish my Essential Turkey trip with Travel Talk (October 12th- for 10 days) and had an amazing experience! Our guide Mustafa was fantastic. He took care of every little detail and made sure everyone in our group (42 people, a great mix of ages) was happy and well looked after. I traveled with my mom, and this trip was the perfect way to get a quick, but comprehensive, view of what Turkey has to offer. This was my second time with Travel Talk, and I would definitely choose them again for future adventures!

Samantha Treadwell (Google Reviewer)  

Such an UNREAL EXPERIENCE! I...

13-Aug-2024

Such an UNREAL EXPERIENCE! I cannot recommend the best of Turkey by Gulet for 12 day tour enough. On this tour we were able to see all parts of turkey from the coast line to the major cities and immerse ourselves in the culture and history! Mustafa is the best tour guide who priorities experiences, learning and safety of all tour participants (he also doubles as a comedian so ensures many laughs are had). From sailing on the Mediterranean Sea, experiencing the best food and culture in Istanbul, to paragliding over Pamukkale springs, and finally ticking off the bucket list moment of hot air ballooning over Cappadocia, this has been a trip not to forget. I cannot recommend this tour enough and would encourage anyone going to turkey to book this trip with Travel Talk!

Steph Burnettt (Google Reviewer)  

Thank you Mustafa & Travel...

06-Oct-2024

Thank you Mustafa & Travel Talk for an extraordinary 10 day trip of Turkey. A beautiful country indeed. We had a great time visiting all the sites. Mustafa’s sense of humour and abundance of knowledge made it all the more enjoyable. Definitely recommend this tour.

Victoria McCullough (Google Reviewer)  

I did the travel talk...

26-Aug-2024

I did the travel talk turkey tour with mus. He's an awesome guide full of local knowledge. There had been wild fires at Gallipoli so rearranged our itinerary to allow us a chance to visit which we did! I spent 3 days on the gulet and was a great way to relax. Would highly recommend the tour as a way to visit turkey and would do it again.

Leigh Anaru (Google Reviewer)  

Just finished the 10 day...

30-Apr-2024

Just finished the 10 day ANZAC tour in Türkiye. Wow what an experience! The tour although busy was jam packed with amazing experiences made all the more richer by our highly knowledgable and very funny guide Aykut. The bus was full of 44 Aussies and Kiwis which would've been no easy feat to control. Aykut and our drivers Naci and Sevki were kind and patient making our long drives enjoyable. Gallipoli was a bucket list of mine, and what a beautiful humbling experience it was, especially the following day tour of the cemeteries. Other than that highlight, the early morning hot air balloon and all the other sites the Kapadokya offers was pretty special too. I will be using Travel Talk again. 5 stars!

Bec Wood (Google Reviewer)  

We did the 11 Day...

26-Apr-2024

We did the 11 Day Anzac Tour of Turkey. It. Was. Phenomenal. My husband and I absolutely love Turkey and were excited to explore the country. Highlights were definitely the Hot Air Balloons in Cappadocia and the privilege of attending the Dawn Service at Anzac Cove. A bucket list item ticked off. This was my second Travel Talk in 2024 and I would absolutely do another one in the future. The tour was organised and our guide, Mustafa, was fantastic.

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  • Free Date Changes

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  • Low Deposit

    CTS demo white label requires a minimum deposit of 55% or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 30 days before departure.

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