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Winter Guide to Visiting Iceland

Winter transforms Iceland into a magical wonderland of snow-covered volcanoes, frozen waterfalls, and the stunning Northern Lights. While the days are shorter and the weather more unpredictable, Iceland’s winter landscapes offer a unique, serene beauty. Whether you’re an adventurer seeking the thrill of glacier hikes or simply want to relax in a geothermal hot spring, here are some tips to help you make the most of your winter trip to Iceland.

What to Pack

Winter temperatures in Iceland aren’t as extreme as you might think, but staying warm and dry is crucial. Dress in layers, starting with a thermal base layer, adding insulating fleece or wool, and finishing with a waterproof and windproof outer layer. A good pair of waterproof boots with sturdy grip, thermal socks, and gloves will keep you comfortable during outdoor activities. Don’t forget a warm hat and scarf to shield yourself from the cold winds.

Must-See Winter Attractions

Reykjanes Peninsula
The Reykjanes Peninsula, the youngest part of Iceland, is where much of the island’s seismic activity happens. Don’t worry—your safety is always our priority. This region is home to several attractions, including the famous **Blue Lagoon**, where you can soak in soothing geothermal waters surrounded by volcanic landscapes. For history buffs, the **Viking World Museum** showcases a full-size replica of a Viking ship, built to commemorate 1000 years since Leif Eriksson’s discovery of North America.

The Northern Lights
One of Iceland’s main winter draws is the aurora borealis. Head out to remote areas away from city lights for the best chance to see these colorful, dancing lights illuminate the night sky. Know more about our Northern Lights Private Day Tour.

The Golden Circle
A classic route, the Golden Circle tour is just as breathtaking in winter. Visit Þingvellir National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site, walk around Geysir geothermal area with its erupting hot springs, and marvel at the mighty Gullfoss Waterfall, which looks even more dramatic when partly frozen in the winter.

The South Coast
Just as scenic in winter as in summer, the South Coast tour offers incredible views of snow-covered mountains, dramatic cliffs, and iconic waterfalls like Skógafoss and Seljalandsfoss. A must-stop is the Lava Center in Hvolsvöllur, where an interactive exhibition teaches visitors about Iceland’s dynamic volcanic landscape in a fun and easy-to-understand way.

Glacier Hikes and Ice Caves
Winter is the best time to explore Iceland’s glaciers and venture inside sparkling blue ice caves. Guided tours will take you safely through these stunning natural wonders, offering incredible photo opportunities.

Hveragerdi
Known for its geothermal activity, the town of Hveragerdi is a fun stop where you can boil an egg in a hot spring and enjoy it alongside traditional rye bread baked underground by geothermal heat.

Hot Springs
Iceland’s many natural hot springs are especially inviting in winter. Soaking in the warm waters while surrounded by snowy landscapes is an experience not to be missed. Popular spots like the Blue Lagoon and Secret Lagoon are perfect for a winter dip.

Driving in Winter Conditions

Driving in Iceland during winter can be challenging due to snow, ice, and unpredictable weather. While renting a 4×4 vehicle is a good option, many travelers prefer to join a tour to avoid the stress of driving in such conditions. Private tours may seem expensive initially, but if you’re traveling in a group of 4-9 people, the difference between a private tour and a small group bus tour isn’t significant. Plus, with a private guide, you’ll benefit from personalized service, expert local knowledge, and the flexibility to adjust your itinerary based on weather and road conditions.

Why Choose a Small, Dedicated Tour Company?

The best way to experience Iceland’s winter wonders is by choosing a small, dedicated tour company in Iceland with a strong reputation. These companies offer personalized service and in-depth knowledge of the country’s natural and cultural treasures. Some companies will create a balanced plan for you, offering private day tours and Northern Lights excursions in the evening when the forecast is right. This takes the stress of planning off your shoulders, as you won’t need to deal with new companies and meet new guides every day. Instead, you’ll have a seamless experience with a single guide who knows your preferences, making your trip smoother, safer, and more enjoyable.

Final Tips

With only a few hours of daylight in winter, plan your activities carefully to make the most of the daylight. However, don’t forget that the long winter nights provide the perfect backdrop for hunting the Northern Lights. Keep your camera ready!

Winter in Iceland is a time of beauty, wonder, and adventure. Whether you’re marveling at the Northern Lights, exploring ice caves, or relaxing in a hot spring, a winter trip to Iceland promises memories you’ll cherish for a lifetime.

Don’t Be a Tourist: How to Truly Experience Iceland

Iceland is one of the most captivating destinations in the world, known for its stunning landscapes, vibrant culture, and enchanting Northern Lights. However, with its growing popularity, it’s easy to get caught in the tourist traps and miss out on the authentic experiences that make this island so unique.

The difference between being a tourist and a true visitor often comes down to one key decision: how you plan your trip. By partnering with a reputable Icelandic tour company, you can avoid common planning mistakes and gain deeper insights into Iceland’s nature and culture, transforming your journey from a checklist of sights to an immersive adventure.

  1. Avoid Common Pitfalls with Local Expertise
    Iceland’s weather, terrain, and road conditions can be unpredictable and challenging, especially for those unfamiliar with the island. Planning mistakes, like underestimating travel times, choosing the wrong season for certain activities, or not packing appropriate clothing, can turn your dream trip into a logistical headache. A local private tour company knows the ins and outs of Iceland’s unique environment and can help you navigate these challenges with ease. From selecting the best routes to avoiding crowded tourist hotspots, their expertise ensures that your trip runs smoothly and that you see the best of what Iceland has to offer.
  1. Gain Deeper Insights into Icelandic Nature and Culture
    When you travel with a local guide, you don’t just see Iceland—you experience it. Local guides offer insights beyond the surface, sharing stories, legends, and facts that bring the landscapes to life. Whether exploring a volcanic crater, visiting a remote fishing village, or soaking in a hidden geothermal pool, a local guide can provide context and history that you won’t find in guidebooks. This personal touch turns each stop into a meaningful experience, deepening your connection to the places you visit and allowing you to appreciate the delicate balance of nature and human life on this rugged island.
  1. Flexible Itineraries Tailored to Your Interests
    One of the biggest advantages of booking with a reputable Icelandic tour company is the flexibility to customize your itinerary. Unlike rigid group tours, private tours allow you to focus on what interests you most, whether that’s hiking glaciers, exploring hidden waterfalls, or tasting traditional Icelandic cuisine. Your guide can adapt the schedule based on weather conditions, your energy levels, or even a spontaneous interest in a new location. This flexibility means you’re never rushing from one site to the next just to tick boxes—you’re truly engaging with each experience at your own pace.
  1. Experience Authentic Iceland, Not Just the Highlights
    While popular attractions like the Golden Circle and Blue Lagoon are must-sees, there’s so much more to Iceland than the well-trodden paths. Local tour companies can introduce you to lesser-known spots, like secluded hot springs, off-the-beaten-path hiking trails, and charming villages where you can meet locals and learn about their way of life. These authentic experiences offer a glimpse into the real Iceland, beyond the tourist façade, allowing you to connect with the island on a deeper level.
  1. Travel Responsibly and Respectfully
    Iceland’s natural beauty is one of its biggest draws, but it also requires careful stewardship to preserve it for future generations. Traveling with a local company ensures that you’re following sustainable practices, respecting the environment, and supporting the local economy. Local guides are committed to responsible tourism, which means they’ll educate you on how to explore without causing harm—whether it’s staying on marked paths, being mindful of wildlife, or understanding the cultural significance of the sites you visit. This responsible approach not only protects Iceland’s fragile ecosystems but also enriches your experience by fostering a sense of respect and connection.
  1. Build Meaningful Connections
    Traveling with a local guide doesn’t just enrich your experience of Iceland; it also opens the door to personal connections. You’ll get to know your guide, hear their stories, and share in their passion for their homeland. These interactions turn a simple sightseeing trip into a memorable journey filled with conversations, laughter, and a deeper understanding of Icelandic life. By the end of your trip, you won’t just have seen Iceland—you’ll have experienced it through the eyes of those who call it home.

In Conclusion

To truly experience Iceland, don’t just be a tourist—be a visitor. By planning your trip with a reputable Icelandic tour company, you’ll avoid common pitfalls, gain local insights, and connect with the island in a meaningful way. From the stunning natural landscapes to the vibrant culture, Iceland has so much to offer beyond the typical tourist experience. So, when you set out on your Icelandic adventure, make the choice to travel with locals who can guide you to the heart of this incredible island, transforming your trip into an unforgettable journey of discovery.

Exploring Iceland: Vacation Packages from NYC and Other US Cities with Direct Flights

Iceland has become a must-visit destination, captivating travelers with its stunning landscapes, geothermal pools, majestic waterfalls, and the enchanting Northern Lights. With direct flights from multiple US cities, it’s never been easier to explore the Land of Fire and Ice. Plus, with Icelandair’s unique layover option, Iceland becomes a perfect meeting spot for family and friends coming from different parts of the world. Here’s how to make the most of your Iceland vacation with direct flights and the guidance of a local tour company.

Direct Flights from the US to Iceland

Several major US cities offer direct flights to Iceland, making it convenient for travelers across the country to start their Icelandic adventure. Key departure cities include:

  • New York City (JFK/EWR): With multiple daily flights, NYC is one of the best gateways to Iceland from the East Coast.
  • Boston (BOS): Another great East Coast option with frequent direct connections to Reykjavik.
  • Washington, D.C. (IAD): Offers direct flights, perfect for those traveling from the Mid-Atlantic.
  • Chicago (ORD): A prime departure point for Midwesterners with regular direct flights.
  • Seattle (SEA): Convenient for West Coast travelers, offering direct flights to Reykjavik.
  • Minneapolis (MSP): Provides a direct route for those in the Midwest.
  • Denver (DEN): A hub for travelers from the Mountain West with direct flights to Iceland.
  • Orlando (MCO): A newer route that connects the Southeast directly to Iceland.

These direct flights make getting to Iceland hassle-free, allowing you to maximize your time exploring this incredible country.

The Icelandair Layover: A Unique Opportunity to Meet in Iceland

One of the standout features of flying with Icelandair is their layover option. Passengers can stop over in Iceland for up to seven days at no additional airfare cost on their way to or from Europe. This creates a fantastic opportunity for family and friends from different corners of the globe to meet up and experience Iceland together. 

Imagine reconnecting with loved ones from Europe or beyond while exploring Iceland’s breathtaking landscapes. Whether it’s for a special occasion, a reunion, or just a shared adventure, Icelandair’s layover makes it easy to turn a simple flight into an unforgettable group vacation.

Avoid Planning Pitfalls with a Local Tour Company

While Iceland’s compact size and developed tourism infrastructure make it a popular destination, the best way to truly experience its wonders is by booking private tours with a reputable local tour company in Iceland. Here’s why relying on local expertise is crucial:

  1. Avoid Common Planning Mistakes: Iceland’s weather, road conditions, and terrain can be unpredictable and challenging. A local tour company understands these nuances and can help you avoid common pitfalls, such as underestimating travel times, not packing appropriately for the weather, or missing out on hidden gems that aren’t on the usual tourist trail.
  1. Customized Itineraries with Local Insights: Local tour companies can tailor your itinerary to your interests, ensuring that you see the best of Iceland without the stress of planning. They know the ideal times to visit popular spots to avoid crowds and can offer insights into lesser-known locations that you might miss if planning on your own.
  1. Flexible Scheduling for the Best Experience: The weather in Iceland can change rapidly, and having a flexible schedule is key to making the most of your visit. A local company can adjust your plans on the fly, whether that means switching days for specific activities, finding the best time to see the Northern Lights, or avoiding storms by heading to a different part of the island.
  1. Safety First: Iceland’s stunning but rugged landscape can pose safety challenges, especially for those unfamiliar with the environment. Local guides are trained to handle these conditions and will prioritize your safety, making sure that your experience is not just enjoyable but also secure.
  1. Personalized and Memorable Experiences: By choosing a highly reviewed local company, you’re more likely to receive a personalized service that enhances your trip. Local guides are passionate about sharing their culture and knowledge, which adds a richer dimension to your adventure, whether it’s through storytelling, photography tips, or simply taking you to their favorite spots.

Making the Most of Your Time in Iceland

Booking your Iceland vacation package should ideally include direct flights, accommodations, and private tours with a local company that can provide a seamless and well-rounded experience. Instead of relying on generic travel plans, working with local experts ensures that your trip is tailored specifically to your interests and needs. From exploring iconic sites like the Blue Lagoon and Golden Circle to more unique experiences like glacier hiking and Northern Lights hunting, a local guide will help you make the most of your time.

What to Expect and How to Prepare

During your stay, expect to be awed by Iceland’s diverse landscapes and natural beauty. Activities can range from exploring geothermal pools to hiking along volcanic craters, all while enjoying the guidance of a knowledgeable local who can share the stories and history behind each location.

To prepare for your Iceland adventure, pack warm, waterproof clothing, as the weather can be unpredictable. Bringing the right gear will turn any rainstorm into an exciting part of your journey rather than a setback.

In Conclusion

Traveling to Iceland is easier than ever with direct flights from multiple US cities and Icelandair’s layover option, making it the perfect destination for reconnecting with loved ones. To make the most of your Iceland vacation, rely on a local tour company in Iceland with a strong reputation to guide you through the planning process and provide an authentic, safe, and unforgettable experience.

From witnessing the Northern Lights to exploring Iceland’s stunning landscapes, booking with a local expert ensures that your trip is not only smooth but filled with memorable moments that you’ll cherish for years to come. So gather your family and friends, book your direct flights, and get ready to explore the wonders of Iceland together.

Discover the Magic of Iceland in the Fall

When summer bids farewell, Iceland transforms into a haven of autumnal charm. The vibrant fall colors, often still weather, brisk cold air, and the chance to chase the Northern Lights in the evenings make this season a magical time to visit. Let’s explore why fall is an exceptional time to experience Iceland and how to make the most of your trip.

The Allure of Autumn in Iceland

As the main summer season ends, Iceland reveals a quieter, more intimate side. The landscapes are painted with stunning autumn hues, and the air becomes crisp and refreshing. This serene atmosphere is perfect for those looking to immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the country without the summer crowds.

One of the highlights of visiting Iceland in the fall is the opportunity to witness the Northern Lights. The nights grow longer, providing more chances to see this natural phenomenon. Imagine ending your day with a breathtaking display of colorful lights dancing across the night sky.

Iceland Northen Lights Tours

Soak in the Tranquility of Geothermal Baths

The Blue Lagoon, Sky Lagoon in Reykjavik, and Hvammsvik Nature Baths in the Capital area are particularly enchanting in the fall. The cooler temperatures make the warm, mineral-rich waters even more inviting. And with fewer tourists around, you can enjoy a more peaceful and rejuvenating experience.

Packing Essentials for a Fall Adventure

Icelandic weather is known for its unpredictability, especially in the fall. To ensure you’re prepared for any conditions, pack the following essentials:

  • Warm Layers: Bring thermal shirts, sweaters, and a good quality down jacket to stay warm.
  • Waterproof Gear: Waterproof jackets, pants, and sturdy boots are crucial. Rainstorms can pass through, turning your outing into an exciting adventure rather than a damp disappointment.
  • Accessories: Hats, gloves, and scarves are essential for keeping the chill at bay.

The Benefits of Booking a Local Guide

Navigating Iceland’s variable weather and diverse terrain can be challenging. This is where a local guide becomes invaluable. By booking private tours with a dedicated small company, you ensure a tailored experience that maximizes your time and enjoyment.

Local guides have the expertise to adjust itineraries based on weather conditions, ensuring you get the best possible experience. They can take you on day tours to explore Iceland’s stunning landscapes and help you find the Northern Lights in the evenings. Their knowledge of the local environment and driving conditions guarantees a safe and enriching journey.

Safety First: Be Prepared

Before setting out on any adventure, it’s essential to stay informed about the weather. Check the Icelandic weather forecast regularly and sign up for updates from Safe Travel. This will keep you aware of any potential hazards and help you plan accordingly.

If you’re not confident driving in Iceland, hiring a local guide in Iceland is a smart choice. With decades of experience, they can navigate challenging roads safely and provide valuable insights along the way.

Exploring Reykjavik and Beyond

A dedicated small tour company can help you plan a balanced itinerary, mixing adventurous day tours with leisurely days in Reykjavik. The capital city offers beautiful architecture, cozy coffee houses, and a vibrant cultural scene. Spend your easy days exploring museums, art galleries, and sampling delicious local cuisine.

In Conclusion

Fall in Iceland is a time of stunning beauty and serene experiences. The combination of autumn colors, tranquil geothermal baths, and the magic of the Northern Lights makes it an ideal season to visit. By packing appropriately and booking with a local guide, you can ensure a safe, enjoyable, and unforgettable adventure.

Unlock the authentic Iceland this fall and discover the wonders that await in this enchanting land.

How to Choose the Perfect Local Guide for Your Trip to Iceland

Planning a trip to Iceland is an exhilarating experience, filled with dreams of breathtaking landscapes and natural wonders. To truly immerse yourself in the beauty of Iceland, having a knowledgeable local guide can elevate your journey. Here’s how to choose the perfect local guide for a private tour, personalized adventure tour, taking the seasons into account.

1. Tailor the Experience to Your Interests

Iceland offers diverse attractions, from hiking and glacier exploring to cultural experiences and wildlife watching. Identify what you’re most interested in and look for local guides who specialize in those activities. Whether it’s a summer hike through lush landscapes or a winter tour of ice caves and Northern Lights, the right Iceland local guide will tailor the experience to suit your seasonal interests.

2. Read Reviews and Testimonials

Customer reviews and testimonials provide invaluable insights. Check platforms like TripAdvisor and Google Reviews to find guides with consistent praise for their expertise, friendliness, and ability to create memorable experiences. Look for feedback that highlights how well the Iceland local guide personalized tours and adapted to seasonal conditions.

3. Seek Authentic and Seasonal Experiences

The seasons dramatically affect what you can see and do in Iceland. Look for local guides who offer authentic experiences that align with the time of year. In summer, this might include midnight sun tours, puffin watching, or visits to verdant landscapes. In winter, focus on guides who specialize in ice cave explorations, Northern Lights hunts, and geothermal baths. An authentic guide will help you experience Iceland in a way that’s true to the season.

4. Assess Local Knowledge and Passion

A passionate local guide with deep knowledge of Iceland’s history, culture, and natural phenomena can make your trip unforgettable. They should be able to provide context and stories that bring the landscape to life, regardless of the season. Their enthusiasm and insights can enhance your understanding and appreciation of Iceland, from its volcanic formations to its cultural heritage.

5. Choose a Small, Dedicated Tour Company

Opting for a small but dedicated Iceland tour company with a close-knit group of expert guides offers several benefits over booking with multiple different guides:

  • Consistent Quality: A small tour company ensures a high level of consistency and quality across your entire trip. You can expect the same level of service and expertise throughout your journey.
  • Personalized Service: These companies often focus on creating bespoke experiences tailored to your preferences and interests. The guides work closely together to ensure your itinerary flows seamlessly.
  • In-Depth Local Knowledge: With a dedicated team, you benefit from the collective knowledge and experience of guides who know Iceland intimately and can offer unique insights and stories.
  • Flexibility and Adaptability: Smaller companies can be more flexible and responsive to changing conditions or last-minute requests, providing a more personalized and adaptable service.
  • Stronger Relationships: Building a rapport with a small team of guides can enhance your experience, making it more enjoyable and enriching as you get to know them throughout your trip.

Conclusion

Choosing the right local guide for your Icelandic adventure involves considering your interests, reading reviews, seeking authentic experiences, valuing local knowledge, and ensuring logistical flexibility. By focusing on these aspects and taking the seasons into account, and by choosing a dedicated small tour company, you’ll find guides who can make your trip to Iceland not only enjoyable but truly memorable. Safe travels and enjoy your Icelandic adventure!

5 Essential Tips for Your Summer Journey in Iceland

From cascading waterfalls to bubbling geysers and shimmering glaciers, Iceland offers a feast for the senses.

However, a successful journey through this mesmerizing country requires careful planning and consideration. Here are five essential tips to ensure your summer journey in Iceland is nothing short of extraordinary.

1. Embrace Flexibility:

Iceland’s ever-changing weather demands adaptability. While planning your itinerary, leave room for adjustments to accommodate unexpected weather patterns. This flexibility ensures you can make the most of your trip, rain or shine.

2. Dress for All Occasions:

Icelandic weather is notoriously fickle, so pack layers to prepare for rain, wind, and even chilly temperatures of 0°C. Despite the cool climate, don’t underestimate the strength of the sun, so be sure to pack sunblock to shield yourself from its rays.

3. Budget -Friendly Exploration:

Exploring Iceland on a budget is entirely feasible. Consider renting a car to have the freedom to explore at your own pace, and take advantage of the wealth of online resources available to research accommodations, dining options, and attractions that align with your budget.

4. Seek Local Insight:

Before embarking on your journey, tap into the knowledge of locals. They can provide invaluable advice on navigating Iceland’s unique terrain, including information on which roads are suitable for 4×4 vehicles and which may be closed during certain times of the year. Their insights will help you plan a smoother and safer journey.

5. Elevate Your Experience:

For an unparalleled Icelandic adventure, consider enlisting the expertise of a local guide in Iceland. Their in-depth knowledge of the land and weather conditions enables them to craft a customized itinerary tailored to your interests and preferences. By booking multiple days with a private local guide, they can optimize your experience by adjusting activities to ensure you make the most of the best weather conditions each day with private tours.

With these tips in mind, your summer journey in Iceland will surely be filled with unforgettable experiences and breathtaking landscapes.

5 Reasons to Hire a Local Guide for Your Iceland Trip

Planning a trip to Iceland and want to be sure it will be a success? Here are five reasons why hiring a local Iceland tour guide could be a smart move for your adventure:

1. Insider Tips and Authentic Experiences:

If you read about Iceland’s hidden gems on a blog or in a guidebook, well, then they are not hidden, are they? Local guides know Iceland like the back of their hand, revealing hidden gems and authentic spots you won’t find in guidebooks.

2. Customized Adventures, Tailored Just for You:

Every group is special, whether it is just a couple celebrating or the extended family, living in different places meeting up in Iceland to have a great time together.

With a local guide, your private trip is personalized to match your interests and pace, ensuring every moment is exactly what you want it to be. This small family-based company even offers to take the guide’s friendly dogs along for kids and other dog lovers.

3. Safety First, Every Step of the Way:

Navigating Iceland’s terrain can be tricky, but with a local guide, you’ll have a knowledgeable companion who prioritizes your safety and comfort. During winter, the weather can be a serious threat, with a combination of snow, wind, and slippery roads. During summer, you may want to see places off the beaten path, but there may be rough roads and even rivers to cross. For that, you want a local expert behind the wheel.

4. Dive Deep into Icelandic Culture:

Good Icelandic guides do not only know everything about Iceland, they are also able to tell you all about it in a fascinating way that puts things in context.

Get a true taste of Iceland’s rich culture through immersive experiences curated by your local guide, from traditional meals to cultural rituals.

5. Flexibility

Flexibility is key when it comes to maximizing your precious time in Iceland. That’s why booking with a trusted local company, especially a small, family-run one, is the way to go. Here’s why:

They care

Small family-based companies offer personalized attention, ensuring that every aspect of your trip is tailored to your preferences and needs. From customizing your itinerary to providing insider tips, they go above and beyond to make your journey unforgettable.

They have 1.150 years of experience adapting to the weather:

Iceland’s weather can be unpredictable, throwing a curveball into your plans. While larger companies might cancel your day’s activities, small companies are nimble enough to adjust your schedule, ensuring that you make the most of your time despite the weather’s whims. Whether it’s rearranging days or finding alternative experiences, they’ll ensure your adventure stays on track.

5 Tips to Hire a Private Tour Guide When Planning a Trip to Iceland

Planning a trip to Iceland is more complicated than in many countries. It is an island of amazing natural forces that can easily mess up your plans.  If you only have a few days to spare in Iceland, we always recommend hiring a local guide that will make the most of your time and knows what to do in unexpected situations.

Here are 5 Tips to Hire a Private Tour Guide If You are Planning a Trip to Iceland 

While Iceland is a country that is mostly focused on preserving nature and its charm, there are still many things that have been created to give every tourist the level of comfort and luxury that they want. From accommodation options to luxury trips and luxury modes of transportation, you will find everything that you can possibly need or want to kick start your lavish travels in the country of ice and fire – Iceland.

Choose Wisely If you are just coming to see the main attractions, the cheapest way to do that is just to buy the bus tours. There are many companies that offer such tours to the most visited attractions.

If you, however, want to see something more or want to get a more personal experience of Iceland, I would always recommend hiring a local guide.

A great, private tour guide will not only give you an excellent overview of an island but also help you plan the whole trip in a way that makes the most of your time according to your personal wishes. But be sure you are hiring a highly recommended guide.

Check Referrals Referrals based on past experience are the very best option for making decisions when you are planning to hire a guide for your personalized tour. Finding your guide is perhaps the most nerve-wracking part of the process, but luckily, you’re already in the right place. We offer private day tours to the most amazing stops in Iceland such as Golden Circle, south coast, etc. In our luxury SUV or minibus, you will have the day of a lifetime.

Online Review There are many reviews and travel community portals that help you to make decisions while searching for the best private tour guide in Iceland like TripAdvisor, Google My Business and others give you real user-generated content that helps you to make decisions.

Email for Quotes Once you’ve narrowed your search down to one or two top guides, start sending emails. In your initial contact, you’ll want to state the date that you’ll be in Iceland, how many people you are traveling with, and tell them what kind of tour you are looking for. (Guides also often have set tours, which you can then customize.). You can also check some travel agency websites in Iceland for the best quotation and email them to customize the tours.

Enjoy the Flexibility One of the best things about having a private guide is that you aren’t hampered by set times and schedules. Take advantage of this and allow yourself to go with the flow a bit. 

Traveling to Iceland? 5 Covid Protocols You Should Know

Iceland is the top travel destination for vaccinated travelers. On this page, you can find up-to-date information regarding COVID-19 in Iceland and what impact it may have on your travel plans when visiting Iceland.

Driving along Reykjavik’s windswept roads on a cold March morning, Kári Stefánsson turned up the radio. The World Health Organization had just announced that an estimated 3.4% of people infected with SARS-CoV-2 would die — a shockingly high fatality rate, some 30 times larger than that for seasonal influenza.

Make sure you can show proof of one of two things: a full COVID-19 vaccination—be it Pfizer-BioNTech, Moderna, AstraZeneca, or Johnson & Johnson (Janssen)—via one of the official accepted forms, or an accepted document that shows prior COVID-19 infection (for example, a positive PCR test that’s older than 14 days). Note that for proof of prior infection, you need documented laboratory results; clinical diagnoses and rapid diagnostic tests (antigen or antibody tests) are not accepted.

While both vaccinated and unvaccinated travelers without proof of prior infection can visit, the vaccinated and those who had COVID previously won’t have to quarantine. The unvaccinated face a host of other tests and restrictions (see below).

Do I need to quarantine on arrival?

Vaccinated travelers: If you’re vaccinated or can provide proof of a previous COVID infection, you won’t have to quarantine.

Unvaccinated travelers: However, unvaccinated travelers without proof of prior infection must present negative PCR test results on arrival and take another PCR test upon arrival then quarantine for five days at an approved accommodation and test again at the end of quarantine to be released.

What are the COVID counts and vaccine rates in Iceland?

As of 2019, Iceland has 356,991 residents; according to official Iceland vaccination statistics updated in early August, more than 255,322 residents have been fully vaccinated, and more than 275,173 have received at least one dose. That means roughly 71 percent of Iceland’s population has been fully vaccinated—one of the highest rates in the world.

On August 9, 2021, the CDC added Iceland to its “Avoid Travel” list and issued a Level 4: Very High Level of COVID-19 in Iceland alert. The U.S. State Department also issued a Level 4: Do Not Travel advisory to Iceland on the same day “due to COVID-19 related restrictions,” indicating a “very high level of COVID-19 in the country.”

Being fully vaccinated doesn’t ensure you can’t catch or spread variants of the virus, so heeding the country’s social-distancing and masking rules remains paramount.

The Icelandic government reimposed social-distancing rules again on July 25. They will remain in effect until at least August 27, when they’ll be updated on the country’s official COVID-19 page. You must keep one meter (roughly three feet) between people who are not “closely linked” to you and wear a mask when social distancing isn’t possible.

How much is actually open (museums, bars, restaurants)?

From museums to outdoor tours, expect to find most things open and operating across Iceland, albeit under new COVID-19 norms, with reservations often required and reduced hours and capacity possible.

Bars, nightclubs, and restaurants that serve alcohol are open but have an 11 p.m. curfew and allow a maximum of 100 guests. While mask use isn’t mandated at these venues, all guests are required to leave their tracing information including name, ID number, and telephone number. Swimming pools and hot springs, including the famous Blue Lagoon attraction, are open but operating at a 75 percent limited capacity.

What airlines have flights to Iceland right now?

Icelandair flies year-round from Boston daily, and it restarted daily service from New York (JFK and EWR), Washington, D.C., Chicago, Denver, and Seattle last May through this December. You can also book flights from Minneapolis (five times a week) or Orlando (four times a week) now through December. Seasonal flights four times a week depart from Portland, Oregon, now through October 31.

Delta’s daily service to Reykjavík–Keflavík from JFK started back up on May 1 and resumed from Boston on May 20 and from Minneapolis/St. Paul on May 27.

United started daily service from Chicago to Reykjavík July 1 to run through October 3. United’s daily flights from Newark to Reykjavík resumed June 3 through October 29.

A recent search on Google Flights for nonstop round trips from New York were about $350, about $430 from Boston, and about $650 with one layover from Los Angeles.

Travellers who will be under quarantine can go for outdoor walks but are not allowed to visit tourist destinations.

The country is often appreciated and praised for its handling of the pandemic, the country followed a tough regime of tracking and tracing to contain the virus. And now after a month, the country is giving cautious relaxation on gatherings, leisure activities.

If you need any help while planning for the Iceland Volcano Tour, please connect with us by visiting our website.

Unesco Global Geopark at Reykjanes

The Mid-Atlantic ridge comes ashore on the Reykjanes peninsula. The peninsula, with its diversity of volcanic and geothermal activity, is a Geopark and is the only place in the world where the Mid-Atlantic Ridge is visible above sea level.

The word geo is linked to the goddess Gaia, who was the personification of Earth in ancient Greek mythology. She was one of the primordial deities, the great mother of all, mother earth.

The Park

Reykjanes Geopark lies on major plate boundaries along the Mid-Atlantic Ridge, part of the 65,000km mid-ocean ridge that encircles the earth like a seam of a baseball. Although 90% of this mountain range lies deep below the surface of the ocean, it rises above sea-level right here on the Reykjanes Peninsula, making this one of the only places on earth where it is visible. It is home to many important geological formations, some of which are utterly unique, including numerous types of volcanoes in at least four separate volcanic zones, with hundreds of open fissures and faults.

Read the landscape

The Reykjanes Peninsula is a continuation of the Mid-Atlantic Ridge, which rises from the sea at the very tip of the peninsula and diagonally crosses Iceland from the south-west to the north-east. You can read the area’s geological history several hundred thousand years back in time, although most of the strata are less than 100–200 thousand years old. The last series of eruptions on the Reykjanes Peninsula began around AD 1000 and ended 250 years later.

The landscape that makes up the peninsula is characterised by tuff mountains and hyaloclastite ridges that formed in subglacial eruptions, as well as several series of craters and other large shield volcanoes from more recent times. In many places, there are lava stacks that formed in fissure eruptions, when large volumes of lava flowed from craters in the faults. Eruptions in Reykjanes are rarely accompanied by ash except where the volcanic fissures opened underwater or in the sea.

Frequent rumbles of Earth

Earthquakes are frequent due to the spreading of the plates and occur most commonly as earthquake swarms that can last for several years. Although most of these are minor, every so often they can be felt across the entire peninsula.

Reykjanes Unesco Global Geopark is the second geopark in Iceland and the 66th member accepted into the European Geoparks Network in September 2015.

Reykjanes Geopark has listed 55 sites as Geosites. Those sites have a significant role in the Geopark and are connected to the story of the Mid Atlantic ridge and the affects of the tectonic plates.