Iceland truly is the land of fire and ice. Our trips take in the best of this place of extreme natural forces. Rafting, hiking and wildlife tours are all a part of our journeys, but are by no means all that provides the adventure. Each Iceland Adventure is enhanced by soaking in natural hot springs and getting sprayed by mists of thundering waterfalls. Topped off by getting to know the people that revel living on the edge of hospitable earth, these tours offer everything an adventure traveler could hope for. This trip begins and ends in the town of Saudarkrokur. Saudarkrokur is located in the north of Iceland and is accessible by bus or plane. All specialty adventure gear is also included for the river running and other activities that are included in this journey.
Your Itinerary:
Day 1: After meeting you in Saudarkrokur we head to a rural country summerhouse where we spend the day hiking around the surrounding farmlands and soaking in a hot spring pool. This day allows for adjustment to the time differences before the bigger adventures of the next several days.
Days 2 - Day 3: Overland Trek! We drive into the Tunga farm area and trek up Hryggjardalur to Vididalur Valley. Here we spend two days hiking the peaceful beautiful backcountry of Iceland, an area filled with wild plants, green pastures, and relics of old farms. Amid this tranquil setting we spend the night at a trekker's hut. The following day we hike over Litla-Vansskard Pass to Gautsdalur Valley, before heading to Skagafjordur for the night. If conditions are right we may be able to visit a nearby glacier. Note: We may substitute another hike through equally dramatic Icelandic backcountry should ground and/or weather conditions dictate.
Day 4: Rafting! On this day we float on the West Glacial River, a fun and scenic class II-III river that winds through a magnificent canyon. Halfway through the trip we stop at a natural hot spring where we make hot cocoa from the boiling water. In the afternoon after this trip individuals are encouraged to spend time exploring the local farmlands and rolling hills or just relaxing in the hot pool at the cottage.
Day 5: Fjord Island Exploration! In the north Icelandic waters lies Drangey Island, a towering monolith in the middle of a fjord. This legendary island is now home to sea and shore birds, including the Puffin, and the isle affords beautiful views of the Icelandic sea. We spend the day plying the waters to this island and then hiking around it. This place is an important part of the Icelandic culture, as Drangey was the home to legendary Grettir the Strong who claimed that the island was inhabited by ghosts. We also troll the waters for our own fish dinner and finish the day with a soak in a natural hot pool.
Day 6: There are two options to choose from on this day:
Horseback Riding! Those seeking a truly Icelandic experience can spend the day riding through the rural countryside aboard the most unique horse on earth. The Iceland horse is a small, friendly and sturdy breed that was brought to Iceland by Norwegian settlers in the 9th century. Since that time no other breeds have been allowed in Iceland. The Icelandic horse is the only breed in the world to have five gaits: walk, trot, gallop, pace, and "tolt" or running walk. This day offers even more views of the Icelandic countryside and unique culture.
Whitewater! Those looking for a great rafting challenge can tackle the wild and wooly rapids of the East Glacial River. This river trip features exceptional class IV-IV+ rapids in a stunning gorge. On this river trip we take paddle boats, on which each person helps paddle and power the raft under the instruction of a paddle boat guide. This is an exciting day and provides plenty of action for adventure thrillseekers. This afternoon we travel by van up and into the highlands of central Iceland where we spend the night at a rustic lodge in the heart of the backcountry.
Day 7: Central Iceland Highlights Tour. On this day we explore by both van and foot the wonders of the Central Highlands of Iceland as we travel to Reykjavik. This trip takes us through the heart of Icelandic wilderness as we pass jet black geologic wastelands, snow-covered glaciers, and geothermal pools. Included in this journey is a visit to Gullfoss, an incredible stair step waterfall, Geysir, the world's original waterspout, and Thingvellir, the lakeside site of the world's oldest parliament. This is one of the most fascinating and scenic drives in the world. This evening, after getting settled in your own hotel room, we reunite for a celebration dinner.
Notes:
Airfare is not included in the tour price.
Note: The order of days four, five, and six may be switched depending on weather and conditions at sea. Youth is under 16; the minimum age is 12.
7-Day Trip (Price based on three or fewer total participants); Adult: $2950; Youth: $2800;
7-Day Trip (Price based on four or more total participants); Adult: $2800; Youth: $2600.
Also see tour packages in:
Europe
Iceland
Hiking & Trekking
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