Iceland | Land of Fire and Ice
In this epic Icelandic adventure Guests will have the opportunity to take the path less traveled. Your professionally trained guides focus on quality, culture, and customization so you get the most out of your adventure. Cross lava fields and mountain passes, and witness massive waterfalls.
You won’t want to let this trek pass you by!
Trek Summary
THE WWTREK ASSURANCE | OVERCOMING THE CHALLENGE
Iceland | Land of Fire and Ice Activity Rating : MODERATE
Challenge:
Weather plays a large role in the success and enjoyment of this trek. Following the Gear/Packing list is extremely important to ensure you’re prepared for anything you run into. There are several days of hiking over varying terrain in unexpected conditions.
Reassurance:
Guests will be hiking in lower altitudes along established trails. With excellent guide-to-group ratios, guests can take varying paces throughout the days; If needed, guides can modify the trekking routes to reduce the distance of hikes.
The World Wide Trekking Difference
In our Iceland expedition, we bring our guests through varying terrains, across lava fields, and even allow the option for a trip to an underground Magma Chamber or Blue Lagoon! Experience the most Iceland has to offer and stay in exceptional accommodations the whole way!
WWTrek Accommodations
Stay in luxury accommodations on this adventure, and have all the comforts of home while trekking through Iceland. The itinerary for this adventure allows guests to fully enjoy the added luxuries offered at the hotels or in the local villages.
WWTrek Meals
Enjoy delicious local cuisine prepared fresh for you each day. From our welcome reception to our celebration dinner, you will be delighted by the plethora of nutritious culinary options and delicious flavors prepared. We will happily cater to any allergies or food preferences; contact us before travel.
WWTrek Team
Our team of highly trained professional Guides is here to help you every step of the way. From the first point of contact with the office through the end of your trekking experience with us, World Wide Trekking will work with you to ensure you feel comfortable and prepared to embark on your journey.
WWTrek Experience
We think it’s imperative to offer our guests the ability to hear from one another. This way, guests can get the nitty-gritty details about the trek… like finding out just how challenging that hike is!
“We had a fabulous and challenging tour in Iceland. We went to places most tourists never see and experience Iceland in a way that even some residents never have access to. WWT took care of all the details and went the extra mile when necessary to give us the best experience possible.” – Karen
WWTrek Guest Services
Once you sign on with WWTrekking, we are here for you every step of the way! You will be assigned an adventure specialist who will help you prepare for your trip. Whether your questions or needs are regarding flights, packing, early arrivals, departures, accommodations, or anything else, your adventure specialist is only a phone call away!
Once your trip begins, World Wide Trekking boasts an extensive support crew. We provide medically certified, Professional guide(s) for all adventures of 10+ passengers as well as local professionals to aid the group. Additionally, you have access to a Local Operations Manager throughout your adventure.
Trek Itinerary
The South Face of Fimmörduhals Trail
- Upon arrival, we will take a scenic drive from the airport (KEF) along the beautiful southern coast.
- Your guides will conduct orientation and gear check before taking a hike along the Skógaá River on the famous Fimmvörduhals Trail.
- When we return to the hotel we will have a private welcome dinner together.
- Overnight: Stracta Hotel in Hella or comparable
- Meals included: Lunch and Welcome Dinner
Hike to Thorsmörk Nature Reserve
- Embark on a hike over two new volcanic craters, Magni and Móði, formed during the eruptions of 2010. Take in the magnificent views over Thorsmörk valleys, glaciers, and waterfalls.
- Soaking in the views from the north side of the Fimmvörduhals Trail is a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
- Overnight: Stracta Hotel in Hella or comparable
- Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Fjallabak Nature Reserve and Hekla Volcano
- Today, explore the Fjallabak Nature Reserve which will expose you to lava fields, stunning vistas, valleys, and waterfalls.
- You will be transferred to a more primordial and barren area, where you will come upon the impressive volcano, Mount Hekla, famous for its explosive eruptions throughout the centuries.
- The lava fields and prehistoric landscape around Hekla offer stunning vistas such as the Valahnúkur Peaks and the nearby Valagjá Rift Valley. The group will also savor views of the stunning Rauðufossar waterfall.
- Overnight: Stracta Hotel in Hella or comparable
- Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
The Highlands and the Fossá Canyon River and Waterfall
- We’ll start the day by exploring the true Arctic Oasis Gjáin, a picturesque place with a cascading stream and a beautiful setting in a small canyon full of splendid Arctic flora.
- After the visit to Gjáin we embark on the hike upstream the Fossá River Valley towards Iceland’s highest waterfall Háifoss.
- Enjoy free time in the afternoon and the evening to visit the hot springs of Geysir geothermal park.
- Overnight: Hotel Geysir or comparable
- Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
The Golden Circle Highlights
- Explore more of The Highlands and towards the trailhead for the Hvítá Canyon.
- Visit Iceland’s most famous waterfall, Gullfoss.
- Explore the geothermal greenhouse, Fridheimar, with lunch and a hike in Thingvellir National Park.
- Overnight: Hotel Basalt or comparable
- Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
The Highlands
- Today you will pass by Gullfoss Falls on your way to the Highland Glaciers.
- We will enjoy great stops along the route to enjoy the vast space and tranquility of the Highlands.
- We will enjoy a picnic lunch at the Highland Base before embarking on an afternoon hike.
- Overnight: Highland Base or comparable
- Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Kerlingafjöll | The Giantess Mountains
- Today we will visit Kerlingafjöll– one of the most interesting geothermal areas within Iceland. You will be captivated by the grandiosity, open space, and mountains and glaciers you will be surrounded by.
- According to local folklore, the name originates from a singular rock pillar names “Kerling”, believed to be the remains of Giantess who roamed these mountains until she was finally caught in sunlight and turned to stone.
- We will carry on to the summit of Snækollur to enjoy the magnificent 360 degree views over this majestic terrain of mountains, glaciers, and geothermal zones.
- Overnight: Highland Base or comparable
- Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
The Fagradalsfjall Volcano
- Morning drive to the most volcanic active place in Iceland, Fagradalsfjall on the Reykjanes peninsula.
- The region has had two eruptions in the last two years which have created new craters and a lava field. Scientists predict continuous volcanic activity in the region for years to come.
- Chances are there will be a live volcano when you arrive there! If not, the hike certainly has its merits because of the new lava field and the craters.
- Afternoon arrival in the capital of Iceland, Reykjavík with time to prepare for the farewell dinner in a restaurant and perhaps a short walk downtown.
- Overnight: Hotel Alda or comparable
- Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
International Departures
- We will arrange transport to the airport to allow for international departures home. (KEF)
- Meals included: Breakfast
What's Included
- Pre-trip planning, customization, and consultation
- Airport pick up and drop off
- 8 breakfasts, 8 lunches, 8 dinners
- 8 nights lodging
- Private transportation throughout
- World Wide Trekking Lead Guide(s) and local Icelandic guides based on group size
- Services of local English-speaking guides and staff throughout
- All services, tours, hikes, entrance, and excursion fees described in the itinerary
- Gratuities for service personnel during scheduled itinerary
- Gear List
- Fitness and Nutrition 6-week plan
- Baggage handling throughout the adventure
Not Included
- International and domestic airfare other than as described in the itinerary
- Passports and visas
- Immunization costs
- Travel and medical insurance
- Optional excursions or deviations from the scheduled tour
- Meals or bottled beverages other than those specified in the itinerary
- Items of a personal nature: laundry, soft drinks, incidentals, etc.
- Expenses incurred due to circumstances outside of World Wide Trekking’s control
- Gratuities for guides; group tipping pool
- Tourism Taxes When Applicable
The World Wide Trekking Difference
Natural Wonders
Visit some of the world’s most beautiful natural wonders including volcanoes, lava fields, hot springs, and geysers. Add-on some additional experiences like descending (400m) into a Magma Chamber– or visit the World Famous Blue Lagoon!
Hand-selected Hotels
Stay in beautifully spacious accommodations. All lodging has exceptional access to local villages, and landmarks! On top of that, the views of mountains, glaciers, and volcanoes is unbeatable!
Cultural Immersion
World Wide Trekking’s Iceland adventure is one of the best offerings for cultural immersion. Our guides crafted this itinerary for this trek allowing for a great deal of time exploring on your own and enhancing your trip with visits to geographic wonders. Soak in the livelihood of the Land of Fire and Ice.
Off the beaten path
See everything that you could ever dream of on this Icelandic adventure, but do it without the normal crowds. World Wide Trekking not only visits Iceland outside of peak tourist times, but traverses the country on routes are are often less traveled– making for the most enjoyable guest experience.
Trip Add-Ons
Visit the Blue Lagoon! This one-of-a-kind experience is just the relaxing touch you need. Soak in the warm waters, and revel in the incredible journey you just completed.
Human Outreach Project
OUR PLANET… HELPING OTHERS, CHANGING LIVES
HOP works in areas surrounding World Wide Trekking expedition sites in remote areas of Tanzania, Nepal, Peru, and at home in Utah. With a particular focus on youth, HOP partners with communities to identify local needs and co-create sustainable solutions to improve health and education.
What Our Guests Say
Trip Add-Ons
Travel Notes
Best Time of Year to Visit
Summer (June – August) is the most popular time to visit Iceland to hike due to the warmer temperatures and long days of sun. During the summer the waterfalls are flowing and you can capture photographs under the midnight sun!
Arrivals and Departures
This trip begins and ends in Reykjavik, Iceland. You will fly in and out of Keflavík International Airport (KEF).
*Many guests prefer to arrive before or leave after the scheduled itinerary. We can help you make arrangements. Additional charges for early arrival, transportation, lodging, meals, and activities will apply.
Recommended Flights
International airfares are not included in program pricing. When booking international travel, we recommend working with an experienced travel agent. One that World Wide Trekking is proud to coordinate with is Brian Mei from Eastern Travel. You can reach Brian directly by calling 801.792.1721 or by email at brian@easterntravel.com. Additional support is always available by calling the Eastern Travel Office at 801.466.8811 or by emailing Michelle at michelle@easterntravel.com.
The benefit of using a travel agent is in the event of itinerary changes, the travel agent will find the best flight connections, and land arrangements, for you. Though third-party travel websites are convenient, we do not recommend using them, due to instability in the itineraries. We also recommend that you protect your flight with travel insurance and a refundable ticket.
We also recommend that you protect your flight with travel insurance and a refundable ticket. Contact AIG Travel Guard to get more information.
Travel Insurance
We recommend you safeguard your trip by purchasing travel insurance. World Wide Trekking has partnered with AIG Travel Insurance as our preferred travel insurance provider. For a price quote, or to purchase travel insurance, visit
Please Note: You must purchase this plan within 14 days of your deposit payment. Please send us a copy of your plan if you choose to purchase one.
Customs, Visas, Immigration
American citizens won’t need a tourist visa to visit. If you’re traveling from another country contact us for visa information.
*Note: Please be sure to have at least six months validity on your passport. Most countries won’t allow travelers in their country unless their passport is expected to expire six months after the last day of travel. Make two copies of your passport. Leave one at home and bring the other with you to Iceland along in case of an emergency. Ensure you provide a copy of your passport to WWTrek 90-days prior to your departure date.
Accommodations
Enjoy a variety of accommodations, from modern and elegant hotels to remote historic inns, and cozy huts. All accommodations have been carefully chosen for what they add to our Iceland adventure.
Health and Safety
Our stringent commitment to safety means you have access to our medically certified Professional Western Guide(s) before and throughout your trip. Our staff also carries emergency medical equipment such as medical kits and satellite communicators.
In addition, we recommend visiting your local International Travel Clinic one month before your trip. For more information, feel free to contact us directly to answer questions, at 801-943-0264. We can schedule a phone call with our medical advisor, Dr. Levy, to answer any specific questions regarding your personal needs.
Gratuities
In many parts of the world, gratuities are given in appreciation for a job well done. Our guides will take care of tipping service personnel along the way so that you don’t have to think about it.
For any additional services outside of our itinerary, plan to tip 10% (transport, restaurants, baggage, lodges, etc). We will provide you with detailed tipping recommendations on your ‘Trip Detail’ site once you sign up.
At the trails end you will have the opportunity to contribute to a group tipping pool that will be presented to your WWTrekking guides and trekking staff as we say our goodbyes.
Currency Exchange
We recommend exchanging money at the airport as soon as you clear customs. We will offer additional exchange opportunities, but typically you will receive the best rates at the airport. Because exchange rates often fluctuate, we recommend looking up the exchange rate to Icelandic króna right before your trip. We always recommend bringing $500 cash with you on your trip for incidentals.
Fitness and Nutrition
We provide a complimentary 6-week extensive fitness and nutrition program to help our guests prepare for their journey ahead. The program is tailored specifically for our trips and includes virtual 1 on 1 coaching sessions with our Fitness and Nutrition Specialist.
Gear List
General Information
Country
Officially a part of Scandinavia, Iceland is also considered to be a Nordic country by some. This volcanically active island boasts geothermal geysers, hot springs, volcanic mountains, lava fields, waterfalls, and glaciers, the natural landscape is exquisite and captivating. This geothermal activity helps Iceland obtain 85% of its energy from renewable sources.
Population
348,580
Time Zone
UTC +0 (otherwise known as Greenwich Mean Time)
Capital City
Reykjavík, the capital city is home to about two-thirds of the population in Iceland.
Currency
The official currency in Iceland is the Icelandic Króna (ISK). You will also find that cards are widely accepted across the country.