Iceland Tours & Holidays
Small Group Tours & Tailor-Made Holidays
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Overview
Iceland's awesome forces of nature are expressed through its bubbling geysers, smoking volcanoes and boiling thermal springs, not to mention the majesty of its skies when the Northern Lights are in full swing. Steeped in the legends of the Norsemen of old, it is a wild and romantic place that enjoys the distinction of being one of the most geologically active destinations anywhere on earth. Iceland can quite literally be described as a country very much on the move...both culturally and geologically! ...
Iceland's awesome forces of nature are expressed through its bubbling geysers, smoking volcanoes and boiling thermal springs, not to mention the majesty of its skies when the Northern Lights are in full swing. Steeped in the legends of the Norsemen of old, it is a wild and romantic place that enjoys the distinction of being one of the most geologically active destinations anywhere on earth. Iceland can quite literally be described as a country very much on the move...both culturally and geologically!
A country of less than 400,000 people, it sits along the Mid-Atlantic Ridge, sandwiched between the North Atlantic and Arctic Oceans. First settled by the Norse invaders in the 9th century, Iceland enjoys the distinction of not only being one of the least populated countries in Europe, but also home to the world’s oldest parliamentary democracy. Over half of the population live in the country’s thriving capital, Reykjavik, a chic collection of stylish restaurants, vibrant bars and Nordic architecture that lies along the southern shores of Faxaflói Bay. But it is Iceland’s landscapes that provide the real draw. The interior of the country is simply out of this world, with unimaginable views at every turn. This is the land that inspired Jules Verne to set his ‘Journey to the Centre of the Earth’ here and, once you take in the spectacular sights of Sneafellsjokull, the Golden Falls of Gullfoss and the Great Geysir, it is easy to understand why. In a land of seemingly endless natural beauty, one of Iceland’s most famous attractions though, and certainly its most popular, is the Blue Lagoon, a unique geothermal spa that is justifiably considered one of the natural wonders of the world.
On our tours we have the chance to walk along dramatic coastlines, visiting ancient fishing villages and heading offshore to seek the many species of whales which inhabit the country's waters, see puffin colonies and visit glaciers. On land meanwhile you can hike across Skaftafell Glacier, bathe in geothermal pools, walk along a region where two continental plates meet, visit a WWII British and American base and soak up the capital's culture and history.
Start your journey
Group tours
Travel to Iceland with like-minded people on one of our small group tours (usually max size 12), featuring knowledgeable local guides and an expert tour leader.
Iceland: Northern Lights, Geysers & Glaciers
Discover the natural beauty of Iceland on this short trip showcasing the Thingvellir National Park and Skaftafell glacier, with a chance to view the captivating Aurora Borealis.
Iceland Encompassed
Encompassing all the best that Iceland has to offer, this ten-day adventure follows the ring road around the sparsely populated island, exploring epic landscapes and local traditions and legends.HIGHLIGHTS OF ICELAND
BEST EXPERIENCES
Hear maritime myths and legends
Visit ancient fishing villages where you can learn about Viking history and tales of trolls. Also meet with a local fisherman and see his unique stone collection and handcrafted souvenirs.
Go in search of whales
Iceland is one of the best places in the world to see whales, welcoming a huge variety of species to its waters, from humpback and killer whales, to blue and minke whales. Enjoy spending a few hours out at sea looking for these majestic marine mammals.
Explore the Land of Ice and Fire
Known as the Land of Ice and Fire, Iceland is home to some of the most spectacular landscapes anywhere on earth. From exploring bubbling geysers and old lava fields, to bright blue ice caves and spectacular glaciers, all seasons here offer a different unique experience.
Witness the most spectacular show on earth
Although during the summer months Iceland sees no darkness, from September to March you should have a very good chance of witnessing the ethereal aurora borealis, also known as the Northern Lights. With a backdrop of majestic volcanoes and thundering waterfalls, you couldn't ask for a more dramatic stage.Discover more
WHEN TO GO
USEFUL INFORMATION
Health and Vaccinations
There are no mandatory immunisations for travellers to Iceland though you should be up to date with Typhoid, Tetanus, Polio and may consider boosters for Diphtheria and Hepatitis A. Please note we are not medical professionals and so we highly recommend you seek advice from your local GP or travel centre as to the correct immunisations and preventative treatments.
Currency
In Iceland the official unit of currency is the Icelandic Krone, pronounced “krona”.
To check out the latest exchange rate for the places that you are visiting you can go to www.oanda.com.
Cultural Sensitivity
On our tours you will frequently interact with local people, each with their own distinct customs and traditions. We therefore ask you to be considerate and to treat them with respect. Your tour-leaders and guides will always be able to advise you accordingly.
In the churches and monasteries please dress respectfully. This may mean long trousers for men and skirts for women. Ladies should also cover their shoulders.
Language & Religion
In Iceland, the official language is Icelandic, spoken by approximately 97% of the population, however the majority of the population also speaks excellent English. The national church is the Evangelical Lutheran Church of Iceland and the majority of the population identify as belonging to it. The largest non-Christian religion in Iceland and the fastest growing religion in the country is ásatrú, the traditional Norse religion which honours the pre-Christian Norse pantheon and its beliefs and practices.
Time
Iceland is 1 hour behind GMT.
A useful website to check the time zone differences is www.worldtimezone.com.
Travelling Solo In Iceland
All of our small group tours are designed to cater for solo travellers: the number of solo travellers will vary from tour to tour, but usually over half will be travelling alone. Get all of the excitement of discovering new places combined with the security of travelling with an organised group, with like minded people.