Day 1 : Reykjavik Arrival
Welcome to Iceland! Arrive in Reykjavik and settle into your hotel in the heart of the city center. Depending on your arrival time, you have the rest of the day to explore the small but vibrant city and its museums, galleries, restaurants, and bars.
*Airport pick-up and drop-off are not included. Please refer to our blog about getting from Reykjavik to your hotel for more information.
Included :
- Activities: Arrival (at your own expense); Free time
- Accommodation: Boutique hotel
NEXT DAY Day 2 : Golden Circle
This morning, hit the road and start your journey along the Golden Circle, the famous loop chalked full of some of Iceland’s most must-see sites. Stop by Thingvellir National Park where you can straddle two continents at once, the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates. Your tour leader will take you to a secret spot where you can touch both continents at the same time!
Next up is the geothermal valley of Haukadalur, filled with hot springs, mud pools, and steam vents. It is also where you can see the Strokkur Geyser. This geyser is very active and erupts every 10 minutes or so to heights of over 60 feet.
Finally, you’ll reach the mighty Gullfoss Falls. A pathway takes you right to the river’s edge where you can get a real sense of the enormous, natural power of the water.
Included :
- Activities: Golden Circle loop; Thingvellir National Park; Strokkur Geyser; Gullfoss Waterfall
- Meals: Breakfast
- Accommodation: Boutique hotel
NEXT DAY Day 3 : Southern Coast
This morning, you’ll be on your way to see two waterfalls. First up is Seljalandsfoss, where you can walk behind the waterfall for a unique experience. There is also another waterfall that is only 650 feet away but it is hidden so many travelers miss it. To get there, you’ll walk through a small slit in between the rocks and then, hop from one stone to the next. Going to this waterfall will make you feel like you are setting foot into a secret portal lost in time.
Next up is Skógafoss under which, a Viking named Thrasi hid his gold, according to legend. You can hike all the way to the top and get amazing views of the waterfall. Continue onward to a mountain covered in glacial ice and take a short walk around to check out the unique glacial formations against the backdrop of black volcanic rocks.
Afterward, visit the black sand beach of Reynisfjara with its unique rock formations that are synonymous with Iceland. Lastly, make your way to Dyrhólaey which has an amazing view of a rock formation in the form of an arch.
Included :
- Activities: Seljalandsfoss & Skógafoss waterfalls; Myrdalshreppur glacier walk; Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach; Dyrhólaey Promontory
- Meals: Breakfast
- Accommodation: Boutique hotel
NEXT DAY Day 4 : Vatnajökull & Iceberg Lagoon
Today, journey to the National Park of Vatnajökull, the largest ice cap in Iceland which covers approximately 8% of the country. Skaftafell is the main area of the national park and there are lots of great trails leading to a giant glacier. Thereafter, head to Fjallsarlon Iceberg Lagoon. This lagoon does not get as many visitors as the neighboring Jökulsárlón so you will be the only ones there when you hop in the zodiac to get up close to the glacier. When you get close to the glacier, you can see and hear the ice falling into the lagoon!
Then, head to the Jökulsárlón Iceberg Lagoon where beautiful icebergs break from a glacier and set sail out to the ocean. Take a short walk from the lagoon to Diamond Beach where these icebergs wash up on the black sand shore like glittering jewels.
Included :
- Activities: Vatnajökull & Skaftafell National Parks; Fjallsarlon Iceberg Lagoon zodiac tour; Jökulsárlón Iceberg Lagoon; Diamond Beach
- Meals: Breakfast
- Accommodation: Hotel
NEXT DAY Day 5 : East Fjords
Continue eastward today on a breathtaking route along the East Fjords as you pass by tranquil fishing villages and sweeping coastal landscapes. You’ll see rugged mountains and stunning bays in a very rural, historical part of Iceland, full of unspoiled landscapes.
Tonight’s hotel is a historic building built in 1903 and was previously used as a hospital for French fishermen. Underneath the hotel, you can see a reenactment of what life was like in these times along with eerily realistic mannequins making for a bit of a spooky experience.
Included :
- Activities: East fjords drive
- Meals: Breakfast
- Accommodation: Hotel
NEXT DAY Day 6 : The Highland Plains
The Central Highlands is the largest and most remote region in Iceland. They are also one of the largest uninhabited areas in Europe and can only be crossed during the Icelandic summer. The Highlands are characterized by some of Iceland’s most awe-inspiring, otherworldly landscapes.
Today, your travels will lead you to Dettifoss, said to be the most powerful waterfall in Europe and aptly nicknamed “The Beast”! Krafla Volcano is also worth the stop as it has given life to many of the sites in the area including the Námafjall Hot Springs and Lake Mývatn.
Arrive in Husavik where you’ll spend the night but first, visit the Geosea thermal baths and enjoy a soak in the toasty waters with amazing views!
Included :
- Activities: Dettifoss Waterfall; Krafla Volcano (optional); Lake Mývatn; Geosea thermal spa
- Meals: Breakfast
- Accommodation: Hotel
NEXT DAY Day 7 : Northern Iceland - Akureyri
You’ll visit another regal waterfall today that goes by the name of Goðafoss, or “waterfall of the gods” with a fascinating history. As you continue onward, end the day in Akureyri, the capital of the north.
Although Akureyri is a city with only around 19,000 residents, it offers a number of great attractions, restaurants, and shops. You’ll have the afternoon and evening at your leisure to discover all that Akureyri has to offer.
Included :
- Activities: Goðafoss Waterfall; Akureyri free time
- Meals: Breakfast
- Accommodation: Hotel
NEXT DAY Day 8 : Borgarnes
On your last day of traveling, head south and go through three mountain passes with some secret, surprise stops along the way… Think outdoor jacuzzi and beer spa!
Included :
- Activities: Beer spa & hot tub
- Meals: Breakfast
- Accommodation: Hotel
NEXT DAY Day 9 : Reykjavik
Today, explore the historic area of Reykholt which holds quite a few gems: the cascades of Hraunfossar and Barnafossar that spill out from porous lava rock as well as some remarkable lava fields.
You will then be on your way back to Reykjavik but first, stop at the Blue Lagoon where you can take a dip at Iceland’s most iconic spa. A luxurious bath in the steamy, sulfur pools is the perfect spot to relax after your adventure around the island.
Upon return to Reykjavik, you will have the rest of the evening at your leisure to check out more of the city or relax at the hotel.
Included :
- Activities: Hraunfossar and Barnafossar Cascades; Blue Lagoon
- Meals: Breakfast
- Accommodation: Boutique hotel
NEXT DAY Day 10 : Reykjavik
You have today at your leisure. Get in some R&R at the hotel or head out to explore this charming capital city.
Included :
- Activities: Free time (optional activities at your own expense)
- Meals: Breakfast
- Accommodation: Boutique hotel
NEXT DAY Day 11 : Reykjavik Departure
Depending on your flight time, you will have free time on your own in Reykjavik before catching your flight back home.
Included :
- Activities: Free time; Departure (at your own expense)
- Meals: Breakfast
*Itinerary is subject to change.
NEXT DAY Iceland 11-Day Trip
$4,200 – Trip cost per person (See below for inclusions and exclusions.)
A down payment of $1,400 is needed to secure your spot. The final payment will be due 75 days before the trip start date.
*$300 of the down payment serves as an administration fee and is non-refundable. You can see our cancellation policy HERE.
I’m a single traveler. Will I be charged a single supplement?
If you would like a single room throughout the tour, you can purchase the “single supplement”. The single supplement fee for this trip is $650. If you would like your own room, the additional supplement can be purchased at check-out. We have made the single supplement fee as affordable as possible so that those traveling solo are not discouraged from traveling with us.
If you are comfortable sharing a room with another traveler of the same gender and would like us to pair you with someone to avoid paying for the single supplement, we can arrange this for you. Pairing with another person of the same gender comes on a first-come, first-served basis. At the time of booking, there will be a questionnaire pertaining to this. Please complete it accurately so that we can try our best to accommodate your preferences.
IMPORTANT: If we cannot find a roommate for you, you will need to purchase a single supplement. Roommates will always be the same gender. We try our best to pair roommates based on preferences (i.e. non-smokers, no snoring, night owls, early birds, etc.), but this is not always possible. If you are a light sleeper, sensitive to certain smells, etc., we recommend purchasing a single supplement. We will put you in contact with your roommate after booking. If you wish to have your own room at any point during the trip, you will need to purchase the single supplement pro rata. This will also be subject to availability.
What is included :
- 10 nights accommodation (double occupancy)
- Local tour leader throughout
- Private ground transportation in 4×4 minibus
- Most activities (as noted in the itinerary)
- Blue Lagoon visit
- All breakfasts
What is not included :
- International flights
- Airport pick-up & drop-off
- Most lunches & dinners
- Optional activities
- Gratuities
- Alcoholic beverages
- Souvenirs
- Insurance
Physical requirements
This trip requires a low to moderate level of physical fitness. The volcanoes, waterfalls, and landscapes of Iceland are beautiful formations, some millions of years old. All activities are outdoors and most require walking on ice, snow, rugged terrain, and/or mud up and downhill. If you don’t feel physically able to participate in a particular activity, you’re welcome to explore the less steep areas and enjoy the views or just go halfway up depending on your ability. Your tour leader can always give you an idea of how strenuous each activity will be.
Some hotels do not have elevators so you’ll need to be able to walk up and down at least 2 – 3 or more flights of stairs with varying degrees of steepness with your luggage and unassisted. Most hotels will have porters or staff to help you with luggage but please keep this in mind when tipping.
To participate in this trip you should be able to:
- Walk 1 – 2 miles throughout the day, up/down stairs, over unpaved or cobblestone surfaces with/without an incline, and on paths with rough terrain.
- Be comfortable on your feet for up to 4 hours walking and standing, indoors and outdoors, and in all weather conditions.
- Carry your luggage from the minibus to the hotel and to your room.
- Get in and out of a minibus without assistance.
Smile policy
We welcome all kinds of travelers on our tours and the group dynamic of each trip is different but also part of what makes the trip so amazing. You will need to treat everyone in the group as well as the locals with respect and kindness.
Free time
Our tours are designed for the semi-independent traveler. If you choose not to participate in any of the included activities, you are responsible for organizing your own activities. Your tour leader can offer recommendations for alternative activities but it is up to you to make reservations for extra activities.
Tour leader
Your tour leader’s role is to help you have an unforgettable experience. He/she can answer questions and offer suggestions about what to do in your free time. He/she will always try to go above and beyond to help you have an amazing trip but is not your personal assistant. Travelers must exercise a certain level of self-sufficiency and independence on our tours. We also suggest tipping those who went out of their way to help you, especially your tour leader who will be with you every day throughout the entire tour. Finally, you will need to come with an open mind and adventurous spirit in order to have the trip of a lifetime!
NOTE: Last-minute changes to the itinerary may occur due to weather so please be prepared for potential modifications. The tour leader may also make some surprise stops along the way based on the group’s interests. A sense of humor and flexibility will ensure that you have a fun, relaxing trip in this beautiful part of the world no matter what happens.
Each group consists of 4 – 11 travelers. We prefer small group travel because based on our experience, large groups are less easily able to integrate into a society and generally have less authentic contact with the locals.
A small group size also means that tour group members will receive more personal treatment from the tour leader who can more thoroughly attend to the needs of each person. Small tour groups are also more mobile and flexible as travel plans can be more easily altered en route.
October is one of the best months to see the Northern Lights in Iceland! With an average of 15 hours of darkness, October is a great time for the possibility of seeing the Northern Lights.
*NOTE: Please don’t plan your trip around seeing the Northern Lights. You can follow this Northern Lights forecast and IF the lights are active during your stay and you get so lucky to see the aurora borealis, then it will be a bonus!
Most of our travelers are in their late 30s to late 60s/early 70s and most are solo travelers. Generally, we get a good mix of diverse people and every trip is unique thanks to the group dynamic.
The minimum age on our trips is 18.
Everyone is welcome on our trips; male/female, LGBTQIA+/straight, and solos/couples.
Check out the pictures from our last trips to get an idea of the group dynamic by clicking HERE.
While most daily activities are already included in the trip price, you will have some free time and the tour leader can recommend activities that might interest you. Most of the activities can be arranged with little to no notice. Optional activities are not included in the trip cost and are at your own expense. All optional activities can be paid for by credit card.
Currently, passport holders from Australia, Canada, the United Kingdom, and the United States do not need a visa for a stay of up to 90 days in Iceland.
If you are not a citizen of one of the above-mentioned countries, please check with your nearest embassy or consulate for information on visas and travel to Iceland.
As a general rule, passports should have at least six months of validity when traveling internationally. Most countries will not permit a traveler to enter their country unless the passport is set to expire at least six months after the final day of travel.
The official currency of Iceland is the Icelandic króna (ISK).
Find out the live mid-market rate for your currency by using a currency converter online.
The only time you will need cash is for tipping your tour leader and guides.
To get cash, we strongly recommend using ATMs while in Iceland as they usually offer the best exchange rates. The easiest way is to pull money out from the ATM at the airport upon arrival and throughout your trip. It is always a good idea to carry some cash on you upon arrival in case your bank puts a hold on your ATM card.
You can usually find ATMs at almost all bank branches, supermarkets, petrol stations, shopping malls, airports, and post offices.
Cash is NOT king in Iceland, credit card is! Everywhere in Iceland, even the public bathrooms, credit/debit cards are accepted. (Most bathrooms are free but there will be 1 or 2 during your trip requiring payment.)
It’s important to tell your bank and/or credit card company that you’ll be using your card in Iceland. Some banks block transactions in foreign countries or currencies if they haven’t been forewarned of your travel plans.
Iceland does not have a strong tipping culture but many dining and drinking establishments will add a service fee to the bill. In restaurants, taxis, and for personal services, all tips are at your discretion. If you do decide to tip, around 10% of the total bill is appreciated.
Tipping your tour leader: If you feel he/she did an exceptional job, then you can tip anywhere from $100 – $150 USD at the end of your trip based on past travelers’ feedback.
For more information about tipping your tour leader, please see our blog on tipping your tour guide.
We recommend having access to anywhere between $1,200 – $1,600 USD either in cash or by credit/debit card. We strongly advise budgeting more than you plan to spend in case of an emergency.
As most activities of your tour have been prepaid, you will only need money for meals and any optional activity you may want to participate in. If you are an avid shopper or enjoy a cocktail in the evening, these costs are incurred at your own expense.
Iceland is an expensive country and most meals could cost $70 or more for one person. There will be multiple stops at grocery stores for snacks and alcoholic beverages. (See our packing list for more information.) Most nights, you will eat dinner at the hotel as you will be in the countryside completely surrounded by nature. It’s best to plan on spending $40 – $80 for dinner. Despite the high price, past travelers have said they have never had such delicious food as they did in Iceland!
When using your phone overseas, be sure to check with your provider to get informed about data and call roaming prices. When you land in Iceland, you will usually get a message from your provider that will give you the price of data, calls, and texts in that country. See the example below:
Welcome to Iceland! Your plan gives you unlimited data at up to 2G speeds and texts at no extra cost. Calls at 20 cents/min. Want our fastest data and unlimited calls? Get an International Pass for just $5/day.
You may consider contacting your service provider to learn about what kind of international plans they offer for calls, texts, and data.
All hotels you will stay at offer free Wifi and most restaurants and other public places will offer it as well. Connection may be weak in your room and/or only available in the lobby or common areas of the hotel. Keep in mind that it may not be as fast and the connection may not be as strong as you’re used to back home.
Adapters/converters will be necessary for your electronic devices. Iceland operates on a 220V supply voltage and 50Hz. Outlets have 2 holes with two round prongs in line which look like this:
Outlets work with 2 round pin prongs in line which look like this:
In Iceland, the power plugs and sockets are of type C, E, and F. Type C are also known as the standard “euro” plug. 
The weather in Iceland in October is nothing short of unpredictable; you could experience four seasons in one day. The average temperature for Iceland in October is between 35 – 45°F (2 – 7°C) but with the wind and rain that you may encounter, it can feel a lot colder. That being said, you could also have a couple of days to enjoy fabulous sunshine and temperatures in the 60s Fahrenheit.
There aren’t usually large amounts of snow but you may experience a light dusting. There are about 9 hours of daylight in October.
The famous saying goes, “If you don’t like the weather in Iceland, just wait 5 minutes”. The climate is constantly changing and it can rain at a moment’s notice. Water-resistant gear is extremely important; otherwise, you’ll be cold and miserable. A raincoat, hiking pants, and boots (all water-resistant) are items you’ll want to bring.
Below are a few things that we suggest bringing to make your trip more comfortable:
- Sturdy, waterproof boots (for walking across snow, mud or ice)*
- Comfortable waterproof walking/hiking shoes (with good traction)*
- Walking/Hiking sticks (if you have a hard time walking on uneven ground)
- Wool or waterproof socks*
- Warm hiking pants (water-resistant or waterproof)*
- Warm wind- and water-resistant jacket/coat*
- Thermal leggings (fleece-lined)*
- Thermal long-sleeved shirts*
- Warm sweaters*
- Bathing suit (for hot springs & beer spa)*
- Flip flops (for hot springs)*
- Swim cap/Hair cover (hot springs have high silica levels)
- Beanie/Good cap that covers your ears*
- Waterproof gloves*
- Thick scarf*
- Sunglasses
- Shampoo/conditioner/soap
- Waterproof phone case (for Blue Lagoon)
- Washcloth (for shower)
- Portable charger/battery pack for phone
- Adapters/converters
- Reusable water bottle
- Snacks (for the road; food is expensive in Iceland!)
- Small backpack or across-the-shoulder bag for day trips (water-resistant is best)*
*Must-have items!
When it comes to packing clothes, think layers, layers, layers. The unpredictable weather in Iceland can be difficult to dress for but layers are the solution. Long sleeves, fleeces, and water- & wind-resistant jackets are the way to go. Having waterproof or water-resistant boots are 100% essential. Even if there is little rain, the mist of the waterfalls can get you pretty wet so a waterproof jacket and pants are must-haves. You will be in the same minibus for the duration of the trip so you can leave extra layers on the bus and put on things when needed.
Jeans are not recommended but if you want to bring a pair for dinner, then they are nice to have. Jeans are not ideal for daily sightseeing.
You will more than likely wear the same thing every day of the trip.
All of the hotels will provide a small toiletries kit but if you need more shampoo, conditioner, and soap, it’s best to bring your own. Not all of the hotels will have a hairdryer in the room so you should bring one with you. if you need it.
A few of the hotels on this trip offer laundry services if needed. You will change hotels almost daily on this trip so we suggest bringing enough of everything with the expectation that you will not have time to do laundry.
Yes, the water is generally safe to drink in Iceland unless noted. Almost all of Iceland’s tap water comes from deep wells under the ground.
Iceland is considered one of the safest countries in the world by many. It experiences low crime rates and violent crimes are almost unheard of. However, as with any travel destination, it is important to be aware of your surroundings and not leave your belongings unattended to avoid being an easy target for a thief.
The US State Department offers general travel information about Iceland. See below for more information:
U.S. State Department Travel to Iceland
Hotels and restaurants throughout Iceland offer a wide variety of foods. When making your reservation, please notify us of your specific requests such as gluten-free, vegetarian, vegan, etc. Alternative options will always be possible throughout the trip although options might be limited.
Please review the CDC Health Information for Travelers Website before traveling to Iceland to see any recommended vaccinations.
If you suffer from pre-existing medical conditions or are concerned about what vaccinations may be right for you, we strongly advise that you visit a medical professional or your personal physician before your trip.
We offer private tours to Iceland depending on the size of the group and availability.
Please reach out to us at info@globe-drifters.com for more information.
Flights
Your arrival and departure city are Reykjavik (KEF).
*Please do not book any flights until you receive an email from us. You will receive an email regarding your trip within 24 – 48 hours of booking the tour.
Visa
Currently, passport holders from Australia, Canada, the United Kingdom, and the United States do not need a visa for a stay of up to 90 days in Iceland.
If you are not a citizen of one of the above-mentioned countries, please check with your nearest embassy or consulate for information on visas and travel to Iceland.
As a general rule, passports should have at least six months of validity when traveling internationally. Most countries will not permit a traveler to enter their country unless the passport is set to expire at least six months after the final day of travel.
Most of the hotels you will stay at are locally-owned and the minimalist Scandinavian aesthetic is reflected in most of them. Think clean lines, minimal decor, and amazing views. Rooms and bathrooms are usually on the smaller side.
*We do not offer pre-/post-tour accommodation. When the trip is confirmed, we will let you know the name of the hotel so you can book extra nights on your own.
Reykjavik – Old Town
This casual, contemporary hotel is 4 minutes walk from Laugavegur shopping street. The relaxed rooms feature Scandinavian-style furnishings and an amazing breakfast buffet.
Hella
This hotel has outdoor saunas and hot tubs to relax in and take in the views. The hotel has a restaurant that serves a fusion of traditional Icelandic and international cuisine and a bistro bar.
Kirkjubaejarklaustur
Simple, yet modern décor is featured at this hotel. There is an in-house restaurant offering a breakfast buffet and a dinner menu. The restaurant features spectacular mountain views. In the evening, guests can relax with a drink in the bar’s cozy armchairs.
Höfn
Featuring views of Europe’s largest glacier, Vatnajökull, this hotel offers modern rooms and a restaurant that sources its ingredients from local farmers and fishermen.
Modhrudalur
This hotel is located on the highest settlement in the whole country and boasts cozy rooms on a rural farm where you’ll get to see Icelandic rural culture. There’s an informal restaurant offering homemade food as well. The coolest part is the turf cottages (with grass growing on the roof) where you’ll sleep for the night.
Husavik
Situated at the heart of Húsavík, this hotel is just walking distance from the harbor of Skjálfandi Bay. At their whale-themed restaurant, the menu is mostly based on local ingredients in order to promote and stimulate the local economy.
Akureyri
This hotel is only a 5-minute walk from downtown with many restaurants, cafes, pubs, and shops.
Borgarnes
This is a family-run and homey country hotel in Southwest Iceland. It has a restaurant where courses are prepared with locally-sourced ingredients and the menu includes traditional Icelandic food. There’s a small farm shop by the restaurant where farmers sell handicrafts and produce from the region. Postcards are also for sale with drawings of nearby elf dwellings!
We recommend that you purchase trip/travel insurance for your trip. We work with Travelex which offers travel protection plans to help protect you and your travel investment against the unexpected. Travel protection plans include coverage for trip cancellation, trip interruption, emergency medical, emergency evacuation/repatriation, trip delay, baggage delay, and more. Otherwise, you are welcome to shop around online for a provider and policy that best suits your needs.
For more information on the recommended plans or to enroll, click on the image below or contact Travelex Insurance Services at 800-228-9792. Globe Drifters’ reference location number is 09-0984.
The product descriptions provided here are only brief summaries. The full coverage terms and details, including limitations and exclusions, are contained in the insurance policy. Travelex CA Agency License #0D10209. All products listed are underwritten by, Berkshire Hathaway Specialty Insurance Company, NAIC #22276. 11.17 E7N
