• See the sights that make Iceland’s famous Golden Circle so celebrated, from Gulfoss Waterfall to Strokkur Geysir and Thingvellir National Park.
• There are few things more quintessentially Icelandic than soaking in a geothermal pool – experience it for yourself during a visit to the lesser-known Secret Lagoon.
• Spend a few nights at an eco-hotel that’s part of a sustainable, family-run farm and enjoy a planet-friendly, farm-to-table meal.
• Stand in the spray of Iceland’s most iconic south coast cascades – from the thundering Skogafoss to the enchanting Seljalandsfoss.
• Explore one of Europe’s largest ice caps on an adventurous walk over the alien landscape of Solheimajokull Glacier.

A remote location and high-performing currency are just two reasons Iceland can be an expensive destination. This affects things like museum entrance fees and outdoor activities but is especially noticeable when eating out. Your leader will be able to advise on how to save money, but in remote areas the only option for dinner will be at the guesthouse we are staying at.

The extremity of the weather makes for incredible scenery, but it also means Iceland can be very cold, especially at the start and end of the summer season, at night, and of course in winter. Please bring appropriate clothing for adverse weather conditions. On the rare occasion where your leader must alter the itinerary due to the weather, an alternative will be offered.

For travellers who request double bedding, hotels in Iceland often don't have double beds, but rather two single beds that have been pushed together. In some cases, bathroom facilities will be shared rather than ensuite.

Day 1: Reykjavik

Welcome to Iceland! Your adventure begins in Reykjavik, the world’s northernmost capital and an eclectic place full of charm. At 6 pm you’ll meet your local leader and travel companions at an important welcome meeting at your hotel. If you arrive in Reykjavik with time to spare, why not hit the streets and explore the city's quirky boutiques and cosy cafes. After your welcome meeting, you may like to head into town with the group and get to know each other over dinner.

Accommodation: Hotel (1 night)

Meals Included: There are no meals included on this day.

Special Information: It’s very important that you attend the welcome meeting as we will be collecting insurance details and next of kin information at this time. If you are going to be late please let your travel agent or hotel reception know. Ask reception or look for a note in the lobby for more information on where the meeting will take place.

Day 2: Reykjanes Peninsula / Hvolsvollur Valley

Wake up and take a moment to breathe in the fresh Icelandic air before heading out towards the Reykjanes Peninsula. Make a stop at the Bridge between Continents, a footbridge that spans a fissure between the North American and European continental plates, and visit the eerie mud pools and steam vents of Gunnuhver, named for the angry ghost that is believed to have been trapped in the hot springs 400 years ago. As you continue towards your accommodation for the night, visit Strandarkirkja, a Lutheran church that has been a landmark for seafaring travellers since the 12th century. Finish your day at a sustainable farm that doubles as a hotel. This farm is the leader in responsible tourism and sustainability in Iceland. Share a nourishing farm-to-table dinner made using ingredients grown right here on the farm.

Accommodation: Farmstay Hotel (1 night)

Included Activities

• Reykjanes Peninsula - Gunnuhver hot springs
• Reykjanes Peninsula - Strandarkirkja
• Reykjanes Peninsula - Bridge between Continents
• Hvolsvollur Valley - Farm to Table Dinner

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

Special Information: Today’s total travel time is approximately 3 hours.

Day 3: Golden Circle / Hvolsvollur Valley

Today is all about exploring Iceland’s famous Golden Circle. Head to the Geysir geothermal area to check out Strokkur and watch as the geyser swells with blue water before erupting and shooting some 20-30 metres in the air. Marvel at the immense beauty and sheer power of the Gullfoss double waterfall on the Hvita River. After witnessing these natural wonders, it’s time to reap the benefits of Iceland’s geothermal activity for yourself, with a soak in the warm waters of the Secret Lagoon. Fed by various hot springs in the surrounding area, this spot is the oldest pool in Iceland – though it’s had a facelift since first opening in 1894. And as the name suggests, it sees fewer visitors than its blue counterpart, meaning you can truly unwind, without the crowds. Once you're fully destressed (or before your fingertips start to prune), return to your farmstay accommodation for the night.

Accommodation: Farmstay Hotel (1 night)

Included Activities

• Golden Circle - Strokkur Geysir
• Golden Circle - Gullfoss Waterfall
• Fludir - Secret Lagoon

Meals Included: Breakfast

Special Information: Today’s total travel time is approximately 3 hours.

Day 4: South Coast / Hvolsvollur Valley

Start the day by visiting the magical Seljalandsfoss waterfall and take a walk behind its cascade for a different perspective, followed by the powerful Skogafoss waterfall, one of Iceland's biggest at a width of 25 metres and a drop of 60 metres. From here embark on a short hike to another breathtaking waterfall, Kvernufoos, hidden in a nearby valley, and unbeknownst to most. The waterfall is framed by moss-coated cliffs of lava rock, adding to its otherworldly appearance. After you’ve had your fill of gorgeous waterfalls, prepare to take a walk on one of Europe's biggest ice caps – the mighty Solheimajokull Glacier. No experience is necessary to partake in the hike – your guide will brief you on all you need to know so you can explore the icy caves and crevasses safely.

Accommodation: Farmstay Hotel (1 night)

Included Activities

• South Coast - Solheimajokull Glacier Hike
• South Coast - Skogafoss Waterfall visit
• South Coast - Seljalandsfoss Waterfall
• South Coast - Kvernufoss Waterfall Hike

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

Special Information: Today’s total travel time is approximately 2 hours.

Today's glacier walk is dependent on weather conditions. In order to fit the ice crampons you will need to wear ankle high shoes. If you’d prefer to sit this activity out, you’ll have the chance to hike to the glacier's tongue instead.

Day 5: Thingvellir National Park / Reykjavik

Say goodbye to your farmstay hosts and head back to Reykjavik. En route, stop at Thingvellir National Park to see the Parliament Plains, the site of Iceland’s first parliament. Thingvellir also contains the Silfra fissure, where the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates are slowly pulling apart, the resulting gap partly filled with fresh water and clearly visible. Once you get back to Reykjavik, your leader will take you out on a walking tour to discover more of the history and culture of this fascinating city. Once this concludes, you will say your goodbyes and your adventure will come to an end.

Included Activities

• Reykjavik - Walking Tour
• Golden Circle - Thingvellir National Park

Optional Activities

• Reykjavik - Silfra Fissure Snorkelling Day Trip - ISK21900
• Reykjavik - Lava Tunnel Tour - ISK11400
• Reykjavik - Settlement Exhibition - ISK2500
• Reykjavik - Whales of Iceland Museum - ISK3400
• Reykjavik - Saga Museum - ISK3000
• Reykjavik - Harpa Concert Hall - Free
• Reykjavik - Maritime Museum - ISK2050

Meals Included: Breakfast

Special Information: Today’s total travel time is approximately 2 hours.

This trip finishes after the walking tour of Reykjavik at approximately 2pm today, subject to delays due to weather and road conditions. Please take this into consideration when considering your flights.

Price is per person, based on 2 sharing,  and includes:

• 5 day Iceland ExpressTour
• Meals: 4 breakfasts, 2 dinners
• Transport: Private vehicle
• Accommodation: Hotel (1 night), Farmstay (3 nights)
• Included activities:
  • Reykjanes Peninsula - Gunnuhver hot springs
  • Reykjanes Peninsula - Strandarkirkja
  • Reykjanes Peninsula - Bridge between Continents
  • Hvolsvollur Valley - Farm to Table Dinner
  • Golden Circle - Strokkur Geysir
  • Golden Circle - Gullfoss Waterfall
  • Fludir - Secret Lagoon
  • South Coast - Solheimajokull Glacier Hike
  • South Coast - Skogafoss Waterfall visit
  • South Coast - Seljalandsfoss Waterfall
  • South Coast - Kvernufoss Waterfall Hike
  • Reykjavik - Walking Tour
  • Golden Circle - Thingvellir National Park

• Flights- we'll find the best fare for your chosen departure date
• Single rooms available at a supplement (where available)
• Travel insurance

Subject to availability. Terms & conditions apply.

For more information please call us on 021 427 7094 or 01 696 5135, email info@shandontravel.ie, request a call back using the red button, or submit an enquiry through the form below.