Overview
Iceland in Winter: Northern Lights & Geothermal Marvels
Europe
8 days
7 nights
12 people
Moderate
Wildlife & Nature
Renowned worldwide for its sensational, other-worldly scenery and extraordinary natural wonders, a trip to Iceland is like visiting a different planet. Embark on an epic journey across this captivating country, tracing ancient legends, and uncovering some of nature’s most spectacular sights, from mighty waterfalls and lava caves to volcanic black beaches and iceberg-filled lagoons.
Special Access: See the beached whaling vessels of Hvalfjarðarvegur, sunk in 1986 by an anti-whaling organization and now sitting on the shore of a stunning fjord.
Travel with Purpose: Visit the Hengill Power Plant, built to generate renewable energy on one of the largest high-temperature geothermal fields in Iceland.
Looking for 2024 dates? Click here!
We also offer an Iceland in Summer adventure.
Highlights
- Chase the aurora borealis on a guided northern lights walking tour.
- Feel the mist on your face as you get up close to Iceland’s most spectacular waterfalls.
- Spend a relaxing afternoon soaking in a geothermal nature bath.
- Discover the glacier-capped stratovolcano that once inspired Jules Verne.
- Visit the extraordinary Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon.
- Explore the quirky streets of Reykjavik, the world’s most northerly capital city.
A land of folklore and myths on a backdrop of remarkable natural wonders.
Day 1
Halló Iceland!
Welcome to Iceland! You’ll arrive at Iceland’s Keflavík International Airport and make your way to the group hotel in Reykjavik via a shared shuttle service. Depending on your arrival time you may have time to explore some of Reykjavik. If you do, we recommend checking out the wonderful National Museum of Iceland to learn about the Viking history of the region. Meet your guide and fellow travelers this evening for a delicious welcome dinner in a local restaurant.
Halló Iceland!
Welcome to Iceland! You’ll arrive at Iceland’s Keflavík International Airport and make your way to the group hotel in Reykjavik via a shared shuttle service. Depending on your arrival time you may have time to explore some of Reykjavik. If you do, we recommend checking out the wonderful National Museum of Iceland to learn about the Viking history of the region. Meet your guide and fellow travelers this evening for a delicious welcome dinner in a local restaurant.
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Fosshotel Centrum Hotel, or similar, Reykjavik
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Dinner
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Fosshotel Centrum Hotel, or similar, Reykjavik
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Dinner
Day 2
The Golden Circle
Hit some of Iceland’s top highlights today, starting with Hellisheiði, the largest geothermal power station in the country. Sustainability is at the core of this 13,000-square-meter, state-of-the-art facility. Learn about the production process of the power plant, and enjoy panoramic views of the geothermal area and Hengill volcanic system, from the station’s balconies. Your next stop will be the spectacular Þingvellir National Park, home to the first Icelandic parliament, from the 10th to 18th centuries. It lies on the divergent edges of the European and North American tectonic plates, and it is this active plate boundary and associated hotspot under Iceland that creates the steaming vents and chimneys of the Geysir Geothermal Area. Continue from here to the Geysir and one of the most beautiful waterfalls in Iceland - Gullfoss. Arrive at your accommodation in the early evening, just in time for dinner.
The Golden Circle
Hit some of Iceland’s top highlights today, starting with Hellisheiði, the largest geothermal power station in the country. Sustainability is at the core of this 13,000-square-meter, state-of-the-art facility. Learn about the production process of the power plant, and enjoy panoramic views of the geothermal area and Hengill volcanic system, from the station’s balconies. Your next stop will be the spectacular Þingvellir National Park, home to the first Icelandic parliament, from the 10th to 18th centuries. It lies on the divergent edges of the European and North American tectonic plates, and it is this active plate boundary and associated hotspot under Iceland that creates the steaming vents and chimneys of the Geysir Geothermal Area. Continue from here to the Geysir and one of the most beautiful waterfalls in Iceland - Gullfoss. Arrive at your accommodation in the early evening, just in time for dinner.
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Fosshotel Centrum Hotel, or similar, Reykjavik
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Breakfast, Dinner
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Fosshotel Centrum Hotel, or similar, Reykjavik
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Breakfast, Dinner
Day 3
Waterfalls, Black Beaches & Lagoons
Begin your day with a visit to two different waterfalls; iconic Seljalandsfoss is often featured in Icelandic tourist guides, while lesser known 60m high Skogafoss is one of the tallest waterfalls in the country. Next, make your way to Reynisfjara, better known as the black beach of Iceland. The sand here is actually volcanic ash that’s been ground down over thousands of years. Then visit the extraordinary Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon, a stunning glacial lagoon renowned for its icy blue waters speckled with icebergs from the surrounding Breiðamerkurjökull glacier. As night falls, embark on a quest to discover the magical Northern Lights with your guide before returning to your hotel for dinner.
Waterfalls, Black Beaches & Lagoons
Begin your day with a visit to two different waterfalls; iconic Seljalandsfoss is often featured in Icelandic tourist guides, while lesser known 60m high Skogafoss is one of the tallest waterfalls in the country. Next, make your way to Reynisfjara, better known as the black beach of Iceland. The sand here is actually volcanic ash that’s been ground down over thousands of years. Then visit the extraordinary Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon, a stunning glacial lagoon renowned for its icy blue waters speckled with icebergs from the surrounding Breiðamerkurjökull glacier. As night falls, embark on a quest to discover the magical Northern Lights with your guide before returning to your hotel for dinner.
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Fosshotel Glacier Lagoon, or similar, Höfn
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Breakfast, Dinner
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Fosshotel Glacier Lagoon, or similar, Höfn
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Breakfast, Dinner
Day 4
Explore Reykjavik
Take a scenic ride back along the south coast towards Reykjavik today, stopping at more of the country’s beauty spots, including Drangurinn Rock. Refuel at Fontana Bakery and try geothermal baked bread and other treats for lunch. Upon arrival in the capital, take some time to rest in your hotel, before enjoying a short walking tour. The rest of the day is yours to explore. Don’t miss the distinctive Hallgrimskirkja church, which looks more like an alien spaceship than a place of worship. And the Icelandic Phallological Museum is fun too! If you fancy witnessing the northern lights from the sea, consider joining our optional northern lights boat tour, available in the afternoon or this evening. For dinner, there are lots of great restaurants in the city, or you could seek out Bæjarins Beztu Pylsur, one of the oldest family businesses in Reykjavik; they’ve been serving their popular lamb-based hot dogs here since 1937.
Explore Reykjavik
Take a scenic ride back along the south coast towards Reykjavik today, stopping at more of the country’s beauty spots, including Drangurinn Rock. Refuel at Fontana Bakery and try geothermal baked bread and other treats for lunch. Upon arrival in the capital, take some time to rest in your hotel, before enjoying a short walking tour. The rest of the day is yours to explore. Don’t miss the distinctive Hallgrimskirkja church, which looks more like an alien spaceship than a place of worship. And the Icelandic Phallological Museum is fun too! If you fancy witnessing the northern lights from the sea, consider joining our optional northern lights boat tour, available in the afternoon or this evening. For dinner, there are lots of great restaurants in the city, or you could seek out Bæjarins Beztu Pylsur, one of the oldest family businesses in Reykjavik; they’ve been serving their popular lamb-based hot dogs here since 1937.
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Fosshotel Centrum Hotel, or similar, Reykjavik
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Breakfast
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Fosshotel Centrum Hotel, or similar, Reykjavik
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Breakfast
Day 5
Waterfalls, Legends & Geothermal Baths
Leave Reykjavik today and head north. Your first stop will be Barnafoss, which literally translates as ‘children’s waterfalls,’ where you will hear the ancient Icelandic legend that explains how the waterfall got its unique name. Continue on to Krauma geothermal nature baths, where you’ll enjoy a relaxing soak in the geothermal pools overlooking dramatic Icelandic landscapes. You’ll then head to the stunning Snaefellsnes Peninsula, where you’ll bed down for the night, and hope to see those elusive Northern Lights.
Waterfalls, Legends & Geothermal Baths
Leave Reykjavik today and head north. Your first stop will be Barnafoss, which literally translates as ‘children’s waterfalls,’ where you will hear the ancient Icelandic legend that explains how the waterfall got its unique name. Continue on to Krauma geothermal nature baths, where you’ll enjoy a relaxing soak in the geothermal pools overlooking dramatic Icelandic landscapes. You’ll then head to the stunning Snaefellsnes Peninsula, where you’ll bed down for the night, and hope to see those elusive Northern Lights.
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Hotel Búðir or similar, Búðir
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Breakfast, Dinner
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Hotel Búðir or similar, Búðir
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Breakfast, Dinner
Day 6
Snæfellsnes Peninsula
Today you’ll explore the magical Snæfellsnes Peninsula, famous for its 700,000-year-old glacier-capped stratovolcano, which was the inspiration for Jules Verne’s Journey to the Center of the Earth. You’ll make a few other stops to appreciate the dreamscape-like scenery of the area, including at the black church of Búðakirkja in Búðir. The afternoon brings a journey to the heart of the earth: Vatnshellir Lava Cave, an 8000-year-old marvel of volcanic history. Don't forget to bundle up for the cool cave temperatures! In the evening visit a local farmhouse to learn about Icelandic cuisine and taste the best local food. Later, venture out into the night for another chance to witness the mesmerizing spectacle of the Aurora Borealis.
Snæfellsnes Peninsula
Today you’ll explore the magical Snæfellsnes Peninsula, famous for its 700,000-year-old glacier-capped stratovolcano, which was the inspiration for Jules Verne’s Journey to the Center of the Earth. You’ll make a few other stops to appreciate the dreamscape-like scenery of the area, including at the black church of Búðakirkja in Búðir. The afternoon brings a journey to the heart of the earth: Vatnshellir Lava Cave, an 8000-year-old marvel of volcanic history. Don't forget to bundle up for the cool cave temperatures! In the evening visit a local farmhouse to learn about Icelandic cuisine and taste the best local food. Later, venture out into the night for another chance to witness the mesmerizing spectacle of the Aurora Borealis.
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Fosshotel Stykkisholmur, or similar, Snæfellsnes Peninsula
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Breakfast, Dinner
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Fosshotel Stykkisholmur, or similar, Snæfellsnes Peninsula
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Breakfast, Dinner
Day 7
Reykjavik
Explore Iceland's whaling history today, on a thought-provoking journey to Hvalfjörður, the ‘Whale Fjord.’ Opinion is divided in Iceland about whale hunting, despite a number of international organizations advocating a wholesale ban on whaling. The Sea Shepherd Conservation Society is one such organization, that dared to sabotage a whaling station here in 1986, which resulted in two boats sinking. See the sunken vessels that still rest ashore, a poignant reminder of the ongoing debate surrounding whaling practices. Later, return to the vibrant capital and lose yourself in Reykjavik's enchanting charm before enjoying a farewell dinner with your travel companions, where you can toast the epic adventure you have just embarked upon together. Skál!
Reykjavik
Explore Iceland's whaling history today, on a thought-provoking journey to Hvalfjörður, the ‘Whale Fjord.’ Opinion is divided in Iceland about whale hunting, despite a number of international organizations advocating a wholesale ban on whaling. The Sea Shepherd Conservation Society is one such organization, that dared to sabotage a whaling station here in 1986, which resulted in two boats sinking. See the sunken vessels that still rest ashore, a poignant reminder of the ongoing debate surrounding whaling practices. Later, return to the vibrant capital and lose yourself in Reykjavik's enchanting charm before enjoying a farewell dinner with your travel companions, where you can toast the epic adventure you have just embarked upon together. Skál!
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Fosshotel Centrum Hotel, or similar, Reykjavik
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Breakfast, Dinner
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Fosshotel Centrum Hotel, or similar, Reykjavik
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Breakfast, Dinner
Day 8
Farewell
After breakfast you are free to depart for home or further Icelandic adventures. If you are planning to stay in Iceland, check out Atlas Obscura’s Guide to Iceland for itinerary inspiration. Until our next adventure!
Farewell
After breakfast you are free to depart for home or further Icelandic adventures. If you are planning to stay in Iceland, check out Atlas Obscura’s Guide to Iceland for itinerary inspiration. Until our next adventure!
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Breakfast
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Breakfast
What is included?
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Accommodations throughout the trip.
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Most meals (as described in the itinerary).
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Transportation (as described in the itinerary), including shared airport transfers.
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Admission/entry to activities (as described in the itinerary).
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AO Trip Leader throughout the trip.
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Special access to AO places and experiences (as described in the itinerary).
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Most gratuities (not including AO Trip Leader/Driver).
What is not included?
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Flights to and from destination.
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Pre/Post trip accommodations.
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Travel insurance (strongly recommended).
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Visas and passport fees.
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Meals outside of those described (including most alcoholic beverages).
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AO Trip Leader/Driver tip.
Additional info
Pricing & Trip Deposit
Deposit to book your trip: $250 USD.
Balance due 90 days prior to departure.
The listed price of the trip is per person based on double occupancy.
Pricing & Trip Deposit
Deposit to book your trip: $250 USD.
Balance due 90 days prior to departure.
The listed price of the trip is per person based on double occupancy.
Traveling Solo?
You’re in good company.
Opt for a Private Room to yourself, subject to availability, for a supplemental cost of $950USD. For the December 30, 2025 departure, the supplemental cost is $1050USD.
Solo travelers typically make up about half of our small groups. With curiosity at the center of our experiences, there’s a natural camaraderie that develops over the course of a trip.
If you don’t opt for a Private Room, you'll be matched with another solo traveler of the same gender.
Traveling Solo?
You’re in good company.
Opt for a Private Room to yourself, subject to availability, for a supplemental cost of $950USD. For the December 30, 2025 departure, the supplemental cost is $1050USD.
Solo travelers typically make up about half of our small groups. With curiosity at the center of our experiences, there’s a natural camaraderie that develops over the course of a trip.
If you don’t opt for a Private Room, you'll be matched with another solo traveler of the same gender.
Arrival & Departure
You should plan to arrive by 1 p.m. on Day 1, and depart anytime on Day 8. Keflavík International Airport (KEF) connects to a range of flight hubs in Europe and North America. The best flight connections to Rekjavík are offered by IcelandAir.
*Shared shuttle airport transfers are only provided if arriving & departing on the trip dates, or if pre/post arrangements have been made through Atlas Obscura.
Arrival & Departure
You should plan to arrive by 1 p.m. on Day 1, and depart anytime on Day 8. Keflavík International Airport (KEF) connects to a range of flight hubs in Europe and North America. The best flight connections to Rekjavík are offered by IcelandAir.
*Shared shuttle airport transfers are only provided if arriving & departing on the trip dates, or if pre/post arrangements have been made through Atlas Obscura.
Activity Level
Travelers should feel comfortable walking two to four miles over the course of each day, remaining on their feet for long periods of time, and sometimes walking on uneven terrain. Winter in Iceland comes with its own rigors of snowy conditions, cold temperatures, and short daylight hours. This overland journey requires some long driving days up to 6 hours, which will be broken up with sites and activities.
Activity Level
Travelers should feel comfortable walking two to four miles over the course of each day, remaining on their feet for long periods of time, and sometimes walking on uneven terrain. Winter in Iceland comes with its own rigors of snowy conditions, cold temperatures, and short daylight hours. This overland journey requires some long driving days up to 6 hours, which will be broken up with sites and activities.
Have more questions?
Check out the Essential Trip Information for this trip or our general FAQs.
Any questions about this trip? Don't hesitate to reach out
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Call us at +1 833-919-9154
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Send us a
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Have a question for us about Iceland in Winter: Northern Lights & Geothermal Marvels? We're here to help!
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Call us at +1 646-961-4857
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Trip inquiry
Have a question for us about Iceland in Winter: Northern Lights & Geothermal Marvels? We're here to help!
-
Call us at +1 833-919-9154
-
Check out our FAQ
This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.