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Iceland: Hike, Bike & Kayak

Iceland: Hike, Bike & Kayak

From $ 3,775 AUD

Description

Embark on an unforgettable Icelandic adventure packed with thrilling experiences and natural wonders that take you beyond the typical tourist trail. Kayak along inland canals to the sea where seals often play and hike across the crevassed surface of Solheimajokull glacier. Then, take the ferry to the Westman Islands and cycle through dramatic volcanic landscapes, where puffins nest on clifftops. Hike Eldfell for unforgettable views and walk behind the thundering curtain of Seljalandsfoss Waterfall and hike along the thermal river at Reykjadular. On this trip, you’ll see some of Iceland’s legendary natural spectacles, chase rainbows in the spray of Skogafoss and see Strokkur geyser erupt.

Trip Name
Iceland: Hike, Bike & Kayak
Last Updated
1970-01-01
Days
6
Capacity
12
Highlights
  • Cycle the coastline of the Westman Islands where puffin colonies nest on sea cliffs. Then hike Eldfell Volcano for panoramic views of the archipelago and feel the lingering heat from the 1973 eruption that nearly destroyed the town.
  • Strap on crampons and join a guided hike on the otherworldly surface of Sólheimajökull Glacier. Trek deep crevasses, through caves and over ancient ice formations to see the vivid blues and whites sculpted by centuries of movement.
  • Hike past the Djupagilsfoss waterfall and many steaming vents in this geothermal landscape to the Reykjadalur Thermal River. At the end of the hike is a boardwalk along the thermal river – maybe spend some time soaking in the warm water.
  • Explore southern Iceland’s most dramatic sites like Skogafoss and Seljalandsfoss waterfalls, then take in the miles of black sand coastlines at Dyrholaey.
  • Join a guided kayak tour in the sleepy fishing village of Stokkesyri. Paddle through the narrow canals and out to a sea lagoon where you might see a curious seal playing in the water nearby.

Itinerary

ITINERARY CHANGES Our itineraries are updated regularly throughout the year based on customer feedback and to reflect the current situation in each destination. The information included in this Essential Trip Information may therefore differ from when you first booked your trip. It's important that you review this information prior to travel so that you have the latest updates. Due to weather, local conditions, transport schedules, public holidays, political unrest or other factors, further changes may be necessary to your itinerary once in-country. Your group leader or local representative will keep you up to date with any such changes once your trip is underway and has the authority to amend or cancel any part of the trip itinerary if deemed necessary due to safety concerns. , OPTIONAL ACTIVITIES A selection of optional activities that have been popular with past travellers are listed in the day-to-day itinerary. This isn't an exhaustive list and should be used as a guide only for some of what might be available. Prices are approximate, are for entrance fees only, and don’t include transport to and from the sites or local guides unless indicated. All activities are subject to availability, and maybe on a join-in basis. It may not be possible to do all the activities listed in the time available at each destination, so some pre-planning for what you are most interested in is advised. When it's recommended that travellers pre-book these activities, look for a note in the Special Information section of the day-to-day itinerary. For most, they can either be organised independently on the day, or let your group leader or local representative know you are interested at the Welcome Meeting and they can assist. Where activities are considered medium or high risk, we work with operators whose safety and credentials we have sighted and assessed. Although it is possible that you may find the same activity cheaper with another operator on the ground, we cannot vouch for the safety or quality of that operator. Medium and high-risk activities not listed above have not been assessed by us and as such our staff and group leader or local representative are unable to assist you with organising these activities. Activities that contravene our Responsible Travel policies are also not listed. Please remember that the decision to partake in any activity not listed is at your own discretion and risk.

Day 1 - Reykjavik
Velkominn! Welcome to Reykjavik, Iceland’s colourful capital and the northernmost capital city in the world. Your adventure begins with 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. Visit Hallgrimskirkja Church for sweeping city views or stroll along the waterfront to admire the futuristic Harpa Concert Hall and the Sun Voyager sculpture. Head to the National Museum or the Settlement Exhibition and learn about Iceland’s Viking heritage or relax at Blue Lagoon’s geothermal pools. Tonight, maybe head out with your group to try some Icelandic cuisine at one of Reykjavík’s acclaimed restaurants or grab a hot dog from the iconic Baejarins Beztu.
Day 2 - Hvolsvollur
Depart from Reykjavik to Iceland’s famous Golden Circle. Begin at Thingvellir National Park, where shifting tectonic plates and rich Viking history set the stage. Next, witness the explosive power of Strokkur Geysir and feel the mist of the mighty Gullfoss Waterfall. After, set off on a short hiking adventure to Nauthusagil Canyon, one of South Iceland's lesser-known highlights, a moss covered narrow canyon with waterfalls. When you reach the top, maybe climb up and over the waterfall to get a view of a larger waterfall beyond. Then, head to Stori-Dimon. Here you’ll make the short but steep hike to the summit of this lonely mountain with panoramic views of the southern lowlands and the glacial river Markarfljot. Continue to your cosy cabin in Hvolsvollur for the night.
Day 3 - Hvolsvollur
Today, you'll set off to the Westman Islands. When you arrive, pick up your bikes and cycle the island’s scenic coastal road, passing sea cliffs where puffins nest above the waves. In the town, you’ll have time to find a local cafe for lunch before continuing to Eldfell Volcano. If you like, you can hike to the summit for sweeping views over Heimaey village, the surrounding islands and the Icelandic mainland (on a clear day). Take the ferry back to Hvolsvollur, where you’ll stay for the night.
Day 4 - Hvolsvollur
This morning, journey east to witness the massive Skogafoss Waterfall– one of the most dramatic sights in all of Iceland where you can often spot a rainbow (or two) in the spray. Stop at the Seljalandsfoss Waterfall, where you can walk behind the curtain of water for a different perspective (bring a raincoat!), then, swing by Dyrholaey to see rugged volcanic sea stacks and an endless stretch of black sand beach. Gear up for your glacier trek on Solheimajokull. After a safety briefing, you’ll strap on crampons, helmets and ice axes – then you’re off! After a short trek across rocky moraine left by the retreating glacier, you’ll step onto the ice and enter an otherworldly landscape of deep blue crevasses, ice caves and glacial waterfalls (known as moulins). Navigate around the ice while your expert guide explains glacial movement and the glacier’s formation, seeing firsthand the dramatic effects of climate change on a retreating glacier. After a big day, return to your cosy cabins in Hvolsvollur.
Day 5 - Reykjavik
Set off on a new adventure as you take on the Reykjadalur thermal river hike, passing the Djupagilsfoss waterfall, hot spring pools, and many steaming vents in this geothermal landscape along the way. Finish alomng the boardwalk along the thermal river before travelling to the sleepy fishing village of Stokkesyri, where you’ll join a guided kayak tour. Paddle through the narrow canals and out to a sea lagoon where you might see a curious seal playing in the water nearby. Later this afternoon, you’ll arrive back in Reykjavik and check into your hotel, with time to relax or explore the city. Tonight, maybe have dinner at a local restaurant and celebrate an incredible trip – your leader will always have some great recommendations.
Day 6 - Reykjavik
There are no activities planned for today and you’re free to depart at any time. If you didn’t have the opportunity to see Reykjavik before your trip, consider staying an extra few days. Maybe explore Iceland’s geological marvels at the Perlan Museum or if you’re an ocean lover, the Maritime Museum. If you’re looking for more adventure, maybe head underground on the Lava Tunnel Tour. If you would like to extend your stay, just speak to your booking agent ahead of time.

Trip Dates

StartEndPrice FromRoom Type
01-06-202606-06-2026AUD $ 3,775-
29-06-202604-07-2026AUD $ 4,295-
13-07-202618-07-2026AUD $ 4,790-
27-07-202601-08-2026AUD $ 3,870-
10-08-202615-08-2026AUD $ 4,295-
24-08-202629-08-2026AUD $ 4,390-
07-09-202612-09-2026AUD $ 4,190-
21-09-202626-09-2026AUD $ 4,190-
03-05-202708-05-2027AUD $ 4,340-
24-05-202729-05-2027AUD $ 4,340-
07-06-202712-06-2027AUD $ 4,340-
21-06-202726-06-2027AUD $ 4,340-
05-07-202710-07-2027AUD $ 4,340-
19-07-202724-07-2027AUD $ 4,340-
02-08-202707-08-2027AUD $ 4,475-
16-08-202721-08-2027AUD $ 4,475-
23-08-202728-08-2027AUD $ 4,475-
06-09-202711-09-2027AUD $ 4,340-
20-09-202725-09-2027AUD $ 4,340-

Accommodation

Hotel (2 nights), Cabin (with shared facilities) (3 nights)

Transport

Private transport, ferry, bicycle, kayak, on foot

Map