Iceland Circle, Westfjords & Northern Lights - 12 days

Iceland Circle, Westfjords & Northern Lights - 12 days

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12 Days From

$7125

$6056

Iceland Circle, Westfjords & Northern Lights - 12 days

12 Days Starting and ending in Reykjavik, Iceland

Visiting: Reykjavik, Ísafjörður, Flateyri, Hólmavík, Akureyri, Lake Myvatn, Egilsstadir, Vatnajökull National Park, Skógar

Tour operator:

On The Go Tours

Guide Type:

Fully Guided

Group size:

10 - 30

Physical rating:

Medium

Age range:

8-

Tour operated in:

English

Activities:

Walking

From: $7125 $6056 Operator discount: -$1069 -15%

NB: Prices correct on 19-Sep-2024 but subject to change.

Tour Overview

Embark on a 12-day adventure through Iceland with the "Iceland Circle, Westfjords & Northern Lights" tour. Experience the magic of the Northern Lights, marvel at the majestic Dynjandi Waterfall, and explore the volcanic crater of Grabrok. Discover the wonders of the Golden Circle, including Geysir geothermal fields, Gulfoss Waterfall, and Thingvellir National Park. Visit Vatnajokull National Park, home to Europe’s largest glacier and most powerful waterfall. Stroll through the vibrant town of Isafjordur, relax in the natural baths of Lake Myvatn, and wander along the South Coast’s lava beaches and towering waterfalls. Enjoy comfortable 3-4 star accommodations, guided tours, and the expertise of an English-speaking Icelandic guide. Travel in heated coaches with free Wi-Fi and savor 11 delicious breakfasts. This tour promises an unforgettable Icelandic adventure.

Highlights

  • Search for the dazzling Northern Lights across the Icelandic sky

  • Marvel at the Crown Jewel of Westfjords, Dynjandi Waterfall

  • Take a look at the Grabrok Volcano crater, fishing villages, and turf churches in West Iceland

  • Visit Geysir geothermal fields, Gulfoss Waterfall, Strokkur geyser, and Thingvellir National Park UNESCO World Heritage Site

  • Tour Vatnajokull National Park, home to Europe’s biggest glacier, Iceland’s highest mountain, and Europe’s most powerful waterfall

  • Stroll around the vibrant town of Isafjordur, known for colorful houses and cultural celebrations

  • Explore Lake Myvatn, a unique natural lake and natural baths

  • Examine lava beaches, towering waterfalls, bird cliffs, and a folk museum on the South Coast, including Seljalandsfoss and Skogafoss Waterfalls

Itinerary

Expand All

Day 1: Reykjavik

Location: Reykjavik

Accommodation Name: hotel

Welcome to Iceland! Upon arrival at Keflavik airport, take the Flybus shuttle for a transfer to your accommodation in Reykjavik. If time permits, enjoy free time to explore the capital city of Iceland at your leisure.

Day 2: Reykjavik

Location: Reykjavik

Accommodation Name: hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast

Reykjavik - Grabrok - Budardalur - Ísafjordur. Today, our journey begins in the west. Our first stop leads us to Grabrók, a 3,400-year-old volcanic crater offering a 360-degree view of the valley.





After a break for lunch in the coastal town of Budardalur, we'll then trace the scenic fjords of Isafjardardjup. Keep your eyes peeled for spectacular views with the chance of encountering majestic whales.





Our adventure continues to Litlibær, a rare turf house transformed into a quaint café and museum. Enjoy homemade waffles and coffee, overlooking the fjord and sea.





Afterwards, head for Isafjordur, our home for the next three nights. In the evening, we'll embark on a quest to chase the mesmerizing Northern Lights.

Day 3: Ísafjörður

Location: Ísafjörður

Accommodation Name: hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch

Isafjordur - Dynjandi - Isafjordur Today we'll explore the Dynjandi waterfall, celebrated as one of Iceland's most magnificent. Its tiered structure creates a mesmerizing array of small cascades.





Continuing along the coastline and fjords, the journey leads to the pier of Onundarfjordur, extending gracefully into the water from a stunning golden beach.





Following a nature walk, we experience Iceland cuisine with a delicious meal. Afterwards, we explore the enchanting town of Isafjordur, where vibrant houses adorn cobblestone streets. As night falls, we venture outdoors seeking another glimpse of the awe-inspiring Northern Lights.

Day 4: Flateyri

Location: Flateyri

Accommodation Name: hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast

Isafjordur- Sudureyri - Flateyri - Isafjordur. The morning unfolds at the Osvor Maritime Museum, where a restored fishing hut invites visitors to step into the past, delving into the 19th-century life of rowboat fishing.





Exploring the village of Flateyri, a hidden gem awaits at the historic Gamla bókabúðin, "The Old Bookstore," operating since 1914. At this charming store, enjoy browsing for unique souvenirs that showcase traditional Icelandic design







In the evening, we go for a stroll in search of the Northern Lights.

Day 5: Hólmavík

Location: Hólmavík

Accommodation Name: Overnight: Fellstrond

Meals Included: Breakfast

Isafjordur - Holmavík - Fellstrond. Today, we'll head to the picturesque village of Holmavík, to explore the Museum of Icelandic Sorcery and Witchcraft. Here, captivating tales of Iceland's mystical history unfold. Delve into folklore and explore an array of artifacts.





Following our adventures, we break for lunch to taste the flavours of traditional Icelandic meat soup and the rhubarb cake.





The day concludes in West Iceland, Vogur Lodge, a tranquil location nestled near the remarkable Breidafjordur Bay. The remote area is ideal for Northern Lights hunting, so don't go to bed too early!

Day 6: Glaumbær

Location: Akureyri

Accommodation Name: hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast

Fellstrond - Glaumbaer - Akureyi. Today, our focus shifts to the iconic Ring Road as we press on with our journey, signaling the start of our island exploration and the beginning of our Guided Iceland tour.





Venturing further north, our itinerary leads us to Glaumbaer, renowned as one of Iceland’s most captivating turf house farms and folk museums. Continuing through stunning fjord landscapes and traversing multiple mountain passes, we eventually arrive at Akureyri, the bustling capital of North Iceland. Here, our overnight stay allows ample time to fully experience the charm of Akureyri and discover its myriad attractions.

Day 7: Lake Myvatn

Location: Lake Myvatn

Accommodation Name: hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast

Akureyri - Godafoss - Lake Myvatn. This morning we explore Akureyri, a charming town of 17,000 inhabitants and enjoy the panoramic view over Eyjafjordur fjord. From April-October optional whale watching tours are available from 09:00.





In the afternoon we visit spectacular Godafoss, the waterfalls of the Gods and Lake Myvatn, which is known for its geological wonders and active bird life during summer. Next stop is the bizarre lava formations at Kálfaströnd to walk around the many pseudo craters. End an exciting day with a relaxing soak at Mývatn Nature Baths - the waters here contain a unique blend of minerals, silicates and geothermal micro-organisms. The warm soothing waters benefit both skin and spirit alike.

Day 8: Egilsstadir

Location: Egilsstadir

Accommodation Name: hotel

Lake Myvatn - Namaskard - Egilsstadir. In the morning we hike in a lava labyrinth at Dimmuborgir “the dark castles”, hoping to get a glimpse of the trolls who are said to live there. Afterwards we visit the hot spring area of Námaskard with bubbling mud pools and steaming solfataras. Continue through the uninhabited highlands and moonlike surrounding to East Iceland. With some luck we might spot an Arctic fox or see reindeer.

Day 9: Vatnajökull National Park

Location: Vatnajökull National Park

Accommodation Name: hotel

Egilsstadir - Vatnajokull - Jokulsarlon - Skatafell. Today we admire the dramatic fjord landscape, twisty roads and tiny fishing villages in the East Fjords. En route we visit an interesting stone and mineral collection. This afternoon we see Vatnajökull - Europe’s biggest glacier that is visible all over Southeast Iceland.





We travel along the southern part of the giant Vatnajökull glacier and spend time exploring the stunning scenery of Europe’s largest national park, which has Iceland’s highest mountains and a beautiful alpine environment.





Our adventure ends with a visit to the breathtaking Jökulsárlón glacial lagoon, where icebergs drifting serenely on the water offer a captivating sight. We may even see seals elegantly gliding through the chilly Arctic waters. Between May and September, the itinerary includes an exciting boat tour that takes us up close to the icebergs. Don’t miss the chance to stroll along Diamond Beach, where massive ice chunks rest on the black sand.





Please be advised that this day’s schedule might be adjusted due to seasonal variations, such as changes in daylight.











Day 10: Skógar

Location: Skógar

Accommodation Name: hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast

Skatafell - Skorgar - Hella. We journey along to the southern part of the glacier Vatnajokull and glimpse Europe’s second-largest national park, which has Iceland’s highest mountains, an alpine environment, and Europe’s largest glacier.





In the afternoon, a beautiful drive with many natural wonders awaits us as we head across the Eldhraun lava field, cross the sandy desert of the south coast, overlooked by mountainous cliffs, glaciers and waterfalls. Stroll along the black lava beach of Reynisfjara near Vík. In the small village of Skogar, there is Skogafoss waterfall which is 60 meters high and is one of the most impressive waterfalls in the country. Iceland’s past comes alive at one of Iceland’s finest museums, the Skógar folk museum with its turf houses assemblage of traditions of territorial relics on display. Continue to the high but narrow Seljalandsfoss waterfall which plunges over the mountain.





Stay alert for the chance to witness the mesmerizing Northern Lights in the evening, which will add a magical element to our Icelandic adventure.





Please be aware that the itinerary for this particular day may be adjusted due to seasonal factors like changes in daylight.

Day 11: Reykjavik

Location: Reykjavik

Accommodation Name: hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast

Hvolsvollur - Golden Circle - Reykjavik. Today we explore Iceland's famed Golden Circle. We begin the day at Fridheimar learning about the special qualities and history of the Icelandic horse and visit a geothermal greenhouse.





Later on we visit the Geysir geothermal fields to see a variety of hot springs, bubbling pools and the mighty Strokkur, "the Churn", which erupts at 5-10 minute intervals. We continue to Gullfoss, “the golden falls“, which is a double waterfall that tumbles 34 meters into the Hvítá River. Continue inland to Thingvellir National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site.





As we return to Reykjavík, we take you for a short city tour of the highlights of the world's northern-most capital.





Northern Lights enthusiasts can book optional evening tours, provided the weather conditions are favourable.

Day 12: Reykjavik

Location: Reykjavik

Accommodation Name: hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast

Today our Icelandic experience comes to an end with included FlyBus transfer to Keflavik Airport.

What's Included

  • 11 breakfasts

    Enjoy 11 delicious breakfasts during your stay.

  • 11 nights 3-4 star hotels

    Stay in comfortable 3-4 star hotels for 11 nights.

  • Keflavik Airport arrival and departure transfer (FlyBus shuttle)

    Transfers to and from Keflavik Airport via FlyBus shuttle are included.

  • Services of an English Speaking Icelandic Guide

    Benefit from the expertise of an English-speaking Icelandic guide.

  • Transportation in heated coaches, with free Wi-Fi

    Travel in heated coaches equipped with free Wi-Fi.

  • Guided hike to Grabrok volcano crater

    Participate in a guided hike to the Grabrok volcano crater.

  • 6 evenings with northern lights programme

    Enjoy 6 evenings dedicated to the Northern Lights programme.

  • Entrance into various museums and attractions

    Gain entrance to the Ósvor Maritime Museum, Gamla bókabúðin (The Old Bookstore), the Museum of Icelandic Sorcery and Witchcraft, Glaumbær Folk Museum, and the Icelandic Lava Show.

  • Entrance with towel to Myvatn Nature Baths

    Entrance to Myvatn Nature Baths, including a towel, is provided.

  • Guided tour of Reykjavik and the highlights of the Westfjords

    Enjoy a guided tour of Reykjavik and the highlights of the Westfjords, including Grábrók volcanic crater and Dynjandi Waterfall.

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What's Not Included

  • International Flights and Visas

    International flights and visas are not included.

  • Tips for your guide

    Tips for your guide are not included and are an entirely personal gesture.

Mode of Transport

Travel in heated coaches equipped with free Wi-Fi, ensuring a comfortable and connected journey across Iceland. Airport transfers via FlyBus shuttle are included.

Accommodation

Enjoy 11 nights in comfortable 3-4 star hotels, providing a cozy and relaxing stay throughout your Icelandic adventure.

Age Policy

Child: 8 - 11.99yrs. Adult: 12 yrs+

Check out our Q&As

  • What type of transportation is provided during the tour?

    Travel is provided in heated coaches equipped with free Wi-Fi, ensuring a comfortable and connected journey across Iceland. Airport transfers via FlyBus shuttle are also included.

  • What kind of accommodation can I expect on this tour?

    You will enjoy 11 nights in comfortable 3-4 star hotels, providing a cozy and relaxing stay throughout your Icelandic adventure.

  • Is there a guide provided during the tour?

    Yes, the services of an English-speaking Icelandic guide are included in the tour.

  • What activities are included in the Northern Lights programme?

    The tour includes 6 evenings dedicated to the Northern Lights programme, where you will have the opportunity to chase and observe the mesmerizing Northern Lights.

  • Are there any entrance fees included in the tour?

    Yes, entrance fees to various museums and attractions are included. These include the Ósvör Maritime Museum, Gamla bókabúðin (The Old Bookstore), the Museum of Icelandic Sorcery and Witchcraft, Glaumbær Folk Museum, and the Icelandic Lava Show.

  • What special equipment is provided for winter departures?

    For winter departures, snow and ice gripper spikes and a torch are provided.

  • Is this tour operated solely by one company?

    No, this tour is operated in conjunction with a trusted partner, and you will join travelers from different operators. The sightseeing group may vary in size from 10 to 30 persons.

  • What is the age policy for this tour?

    The age policy for this tour is as follows: Child: 8 - 11.99 years. Adult: 12 years and above.

  • What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?

    Ensuring our footprint is light and that the benefits of travelling reach the local communities you visit is paramount to us. We’re proud to say that when travelling with us, the large majority of your holiday funds remain within the countries you visit, supporting local economies at a grass roots level.

  • How long has the tour company been trading?

    Since 1998

  • Who will be my travelling companions on the tour?

    With English-speaking tours, it's not a huge surprise that most on our travellers are from English-speaking countries or have English as their second language. Our group tours cater for everyone from 18 years old to 70+

  • Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?

    Yes

Reviews of this operator

Nicola Hodgkinson (Google Reviewer)  

Recently returned from Greece, a...

07-May-2024

Recently returned from Greece, a 5 day tour with OTG. Unfortunately, I had a negative experience on day 2 where I needed local support to get me out of a tricky situation. Thank you to Alexandra Z from Hetco Tours in Athens for helping me continue on with the trip, to the Hotel Zafolia staffing team and to Danielle and team here in the UK for supporting me with the aftermath. Your kindness will not be forgotten and I will pay it forward. I've now booked 3 trips with yourselves and will continue to go back. Thank you all. Honestly, I am SO grateful. Blessings to you all. Nicola

Calvin  

Wonderful experience

05-Jan-2023

Jamal is our tour guide. Right from the start, he created a group chat in whatsapp and if any issues to make sure we contact him. He was on the ball with every issue thrown at him. Luggage being left behind, stragglers wondered off in a different path, hotel room etc. He explains the various site along our route to give us a better understanding of the local cultures. We had a great time, thanks to Jamal.

Trustpilot
Norma Sullivan  

Land of the Northern Lights 5 day tour of Iceland

10-Sep-2021

The Land of Northern Lights tour was a triumph! My tour of Southern Iceland was absolutely wonderful. The venues chosen, the timing allotted at each venue and the variety of things to experience was nearly perfect. Our guide, "Thor", was smart, amusing, full of history and anecdotal stories as well as being incredibly hospitable and helpful. This small group experience was my first, but not my last thanks to On the Go.

Trawls (Google Reviewer)  

On The Go Tours Sri...

05-Feb-2024

On The Go Tours Sri Lanka was an incredible experience that was made even better by our tour guide Akthar. He was incredibly knowledgeable about his country and he loved sharing it with us. The tour covers a wide range of activities so you can truly experience what Sri Lanka is all about. The beautiful 4-5 star hotels at the end of every day was an absolute bonus. Thanks for a great trip OTGT I’m sure this won’t be my last

Xtreme Floor Care (Google Reviewer)  

Traveled through Egypt with On...

30-Nov-2023

Traveled through Egypt with On the Go Tours, professional service, very informative and helpful tour guides. The choice of hotels was excellent... Definitely recommend this company

Gavin Harrigan  

King Tutankhamun 10 day tour of Egypt

16-Sep-2021

I have just returned from my tour with On The Go and it was an amazing trip! From arriving at the airport and meeting the OTG representative, everything was well organised and hassle free.  Our tour guide was Amir. He is awesome!! From the beginning he was so friendly and enthusiastic about showing us around Egypt, giving us loads of information at each place and time to explore ourselves. Learnt so much from him about this fascinating place, and he was always happy to answer more questions.   The trip itself was amazing. There's lots of travelling on this trip, but it's really not too bad, and the sights you see when you get to where you are going are worth it. I'm not a big fan of boats, but the Felluca ride across the Nile was pretty fun too.  On the first day I also did the optional tour of Cairo with Ahmed Helal - another excellent guide from OTG. It's worth doing this add on as you don't spend much time in Cairo, and you go to three very different places.  I'm so glad that I decided to do this trip. It was just ace.  If you're thinking about it too, you should probably just book it. And hopefully you get Amir as your guide.

Paul Kelly (Google Reviewer)  

TOTALLY MOROCCO We booked a 9...

26-Feb-2023

TOTALLY MOROCCO We booked a 9 day tour of Morocco visiting many main cities and places of interest. The coach was very comfortable and we felt safe with the driver Suliman. The guide was Hicham Touraouine and he was fantastic. He spoke perfect English as well as French, Arabic and Berber. He was so kind and considerate and made a good tour great. We particularly enjoyed ‘glamming in the Sahara Desert. So much to see and do and great food and company. We would definitely use On The Go Tours again, especially if Hicham was the guide. Paul & Penny

Joyce Heitler (Google Reviewer)  

I would give this tour...

09-May-2024

I would give this tour group no stars if possible. The tour was not guaranteed but they did not inform me when I booked and they did not have enough people. Way after I booked they said I needed a doctors letter because I was over 70. Also way after booking I was informed I needed travel insurance. They knew my age when I booked. They would not refund my tour even though it was 4 months away.

Sarah Paterson (Google Reviewer)  

Terrible tour of India. For...

27-Dec-2023

Terrible tour of India. For some reason On the Go hadn't realised that my room mate had booked her own room for the first night of tour. So the hotel in Delhi had tried to put me in her room after midnight, by wheeling in an extra bed. She went Crazy!! I then had to sit in hotel reception for hours. While the tour guide said he couldn't find me a room. Throughout the tour the guide consistently ask me and my room mate for money for my room, causing more friction between us. Don't book with this company had the worst experience ever. Go with Intrepid or G Adventure

brandy hoffman (Google Reviewer)  

I had used them once...

09-Aug-2023

I had used them once before and loved them. I decided to try them again for a Baltic tour not knowing that they put me on another Tour group- Baltic vision. Loved that tour but was not impressed they marked up the cost for me over 100%. I understand taking some for yourself because of paperwork, but over double the cost everyone else paid on the tour. Just double check before you book with them that you’re not over paying.

1 Select your preferred date

Monday - Friday

Nov 04, 2024 - Nov 15, 2024
$7125 $6056

Operator discount: -$1069

Prices last published on 18-Sep-2024

Book with Confidence

  • Transfer as credit to Future Tours

    On The Go Tours allows you to transfer existing payments to a future tour to avoid cancellation fees if you can't travel and inform on the go tours, 60 days before departure.

  • Low Deposit

    On The Go Tours requires a minimum deposit of 500 GBP per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 60 days before departure.

  • Cancellation Policy

    We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of on the go tours charges.

    Up to 60 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.

    At 59 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.

    At 30 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.

Enquire for huge savings

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