5 Day Express Iceland Small Group Tour
You will be accompanied by various multi-lingual local guides during the tour, who will be responsible for guiding you through the various cities and attractions that you will be visiting. In each new city that you visit, you will likely be introduced to a new local guide who is an expert in that region. Depending on the itinerary chosen and your group size, your local guide may provide commentary in multiple languages.
Experience a superior level of comfort. Our Small Group tours have been crafted for Inspiring Vacations travellers exclusively, with personal and unique experiences in mind. Travel with no more than 26 people, allowing for a more personalised and immersive experience. Please see the Important Information on your selected tour for the exact group size.
This tour is categorised as 3 out of 5
Balanced exploration with walking tours: Our most popular style, this tour offers a good mix of planned activities and free time. Expect moderate daily walking tours, so pack comfortable shoes.
As a general requirement across all of our trips, you may be required to walk up and down stairs, get on and off transportation, handle your own luggage, and participate in all scheduled sightseeing that may be conducted on uneven ground and terrain. Any physical ailments you may have must be disclosed at the time of booking to determine your suitability and where required, supporting documentation may be requested to ensure that we are comfortable that you will enjoy your trip.
✓ Small, personal group tour – no more than 24 people
✓ Take a dip in the Blue Lagoon, admire the stunning landscape of the South Coast and traverse Iceland’s famous Golden Circle route
✓ 4 nights in 3 and 4-star accommodation
✓ Breakfast daily
✓ Fully escorted by a driver guide from Days 2 - 4
✓ Arrival and departure airport FlyBus transfers
✓ Dedicated, comfortable coach transportation
✓ Sightseeing including entry fees as per itinerary
✈ Needing international airfares to accompany your Inspiring Vacation? You will be able to access our flight portal after securing your package to add international airfares to your booking.
🛏️ Shared room available for solo passengers. This tour offers solo passengers the option to share a room with a fellow passenger of the same gender and avoid the Single Traveller supplement.
Discover the essence of Iceland on this 5-day small-group adventure! From the soothing Blue Lagoon to the breathtaking South Coast and the iconic Golden Circle, experience the country’s stunning natural beauty and rich history. With expert guides, comfortable accommodations, and an intimate group setting, it’s the perfect Nordic escape!
Welcome to Iceland! Upon arrival at Keflavik International Airport, you have an included FlyBus journey from the airport to Reykjavik. The journey will take you through the lunar landscape and moss-covered lava fields of the Reykjanes Peninsula. If you have arrived in your hotel with time to explore, take some time to wander around Iceland’s quaint capital city. You may wish to visit the beautiful Hallgrimskirkja Church and take in the iconic views from the top. Take a stroll in the old city centre, perhaps visiting one of the museums or relaxing with a cup of coffee in a cozy café.
Flybus arrival transfers are included as part of your package with your included FlyBus transfer to Reykjavik.
Please note that hotels in Iceland start check-in around 14:00 (2:00pm), and early check-in is not guaranteed. Most hotels will be happy to store your luggage if you are not able to check in early.
If Inspiring Vacations has not provided your international airfares, please ensure you provide your flight details via your Traveller Hub portal no later than 90 days prior to travel so that your transfers can be confirmed.
This morning, meet your guide and start a sightseeing tour of Reykjavik — a classic introduction to the many sights of Iceland’s wonderful capital city. You will see many of the city's main attractions including the City Hall, the National Museum, Höfði house (site of the 1986 summit), the Harpa Concert Hall and Conference Centre and the city’s main landmark, Hallgrímskirkja Church. We’ll also visit the Perlan glass dome, providing 360°view over Reykjavík and the surrounding landscapes.
After leaving the city, we journey back to the Reykjanes Peninsula to visit one of the country's most famous attractions, the Blue Lagoon. The lagoon is a unique wonder; a lake with pleasantly warm mineral-rich geothermal water in the middle of a black lava field. The high natural levels of silica and minerals give the Lagoon its rich blue colour. Indulge in the included comfort package and take the opportunity to dip in the thermal waters with a silica mud mask.
On the way to the Selfoss region, where we will be staying for the next two days, we will stop at Krísuvík to see the powerful jets of sulphurous steam escaping from deep below the earth’s crust. Small hot springs, mud pots, boiling pools and other types of geothermal activity can also be seen here.
Today will be a journey through the stunning landscape of Iceland’s south coast, a region of breathtaking scenery and legendary stories. You‘ll encounter the wonderful variety of the south: from the wide plains formed by glacial rivers, to the sheer sea cliffs of Dyrhólaey or Reynishverfi, and the spectacular waterfalls of Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss. In clear weather you can spot unforgettable views of the Hekla and Eyjafjallajökull volcanoes and, if the conditions are right, even the Westman Islands.
You will visit the The Lava Center in Hvolsvöllur (exhibition and cinema included), dedicated to the unique volcanoes and geology of Iceland. It is an interactive, high-tech educational exhibition depicting volcanic activity, earthquakes and the creation of Iceland.
Combining natural and historical wonders, today’s route along the Golden Circle may just be the highlight of your time in Iceland! You’ll experience the popular landmark attractions in one incredible day: the magnificent Gullfoss waterfall, the spouting hot springs of Geysir, and Þingvellir National Park, the site of the Viking parliament and over 1,000 years of history. It’s not to be missed!
Return to Reykjavik in the afternoon for an evening at leisure to reflect on your incredible journey across Scandinavia and the Nordics.
Your Nordic winter wonderland journey has now come to an end.
We hope you’ve been inspired!
Flybus departure transfers are included as part of your package with your included FlyBus transfer to Keflavik International Airport (KEF).
Pre/post accommodation
Pre and post tour accommodation is not available on this tour.
Upgrades
Not available.
Bedding Configuration
Bedding configurations (double or twin) are requests only. All efforts will be made to meet your preferences, but we can not guarantee your request will be available at all properties.
Single travellers
When booking this tour, solo travellers will be presented with two options:
1 - Single Supplement
By paying an additional $xx per person, in addition to the twin-share price, you guarantee the privacy of your own room throughout the entire tour.
To keep our Single Supplement at a reduced cost, some hotels may allocate solo travellers with a dedicated Single Room. At times this may mean a single bed will be provided.
2- Shared Room with a known friend
If travelling together with a friend, you can opt to share your room with them and avoid paying a single supplement.
You and your friend can create a unique booking each. Creating a unique booking gives each of you the flexibility of making different travel arrangements (such as adding extra accommodation, flights, etc), making separate payments and having individual access to our Traveller Hub.
During the purchase path, you will need to provide your friend’s booking ID (if known) or at a minimum, your friend’s full name.
Triple Share
Not available.
Payment Information
This product requires full payment within 48 hours to secure your booking.
Once you have created your booking you will be directed to your invoice to choose your preferred payment method.
Cooling Off Period
A refund will be available within the 7-day cooling-off period unless otherwise restricted by the purchased product.
Where 'last minute' bookings are available within 71 days of departure, the cooling-off period does not apply and bookings are immediately non-refundable.
Terms and conditions
Please review our terms and conditions here: https://www.inspiringvacations.com/au/page/terms-and-conditions
Tour Suitability
Visas & Entry Requirements
Many countries require a visa and obtaining the correct visa for your tour and any countries you may transit through is your responsibility. We recommend you check your visa requirements as soon as you have booked your tour. This will ensure you have time to prepare your documents and for your visa application to be processed. You can check the visa entry requirements for your nationality via our page here:
https://inspiringvacations-8357211.hs-sites.com/visa-information
You’ll need a valid passport to travel internationally and most countries require your passport to have a minimum of 6 months validity, so remember to check the expiry date.
We need your passport information to get everything ready for your tour so the information on your booking must match your passport exactly. Please take care to provide the correct details. We recommend carrying a copy of the photo page of your passport while travelling and leaving a copy at home with family or friends.
Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is strongly recommended on all our tours. We require that at a minimum you are covered for medical expenses including emergency repatriation. It is also important to consider forced pre-tour cancellations and how your chosen insurance policy may cover such circumstances, so please keep this in mind when choosing your provider.
We strongly recommend all travellers have a policy that also covers personal liability, cancellation, curtailment and loss of luggage or personal effects. For international tours, you will be asked by your tour leader for your travel insurance details if they were not already added to your Traveller Hub account pre-departure.
If you have credit card insurance your Inspiring Vacations tour leader or local guide may require details of the participating insurer/underwriter, the level of coverage, policy number, and emergency contact number rather than the bank's name and your credit card details. Please contact your bank for these details before arriving in-country.
Before you depart, you will be asked to submit your Travel Insurance details through the booking holder's Traveller Hub account through the Inspiring Vacations website. This is to ensure that we have this information readily available should we ever need it.
Health & Wellness
All travellers need to be in good physical health to participate fully on this tour. Our group tours are designed to immerse you in incredible sights and activities, often involving walking tours and self-exploration. To ensure you can fully embrace every moment, we recommend a moderate level of fitness for all of our tours.
When selecting your tour please make sure you have read through the itinerary carefully and assess your ability to manage and enjoy our style of travel. Please note that in the assessment of our Inspiring Vacations Tour Leader or local representative a traveller is unable to complete the itinerary without undue risk to themselves and/or the rest of the group, we reserve the right to exclude them from all or part of a tour without refund.
You should consult your doctor for up-to-date medical travel information or for any necessary vaccinations before departure. We recommend that you carry a first aid kit as well as any personal medical requirements in their original packaging as they may not easily be obtained while travelling. If you are carrying medication, ensure you check your government's foreign travel advice for any local restrictions or requirements. For the safety and wellbeing of yourself and others, if you are unwell before travelling, please stay at home and contact us to make alternative arrangements and we would be more than happy to assist you.
Important Information for Customers with Mobility Limitations
We want to ensure everyone has a fantastic and inclusive experience on our tours. If you require the use of a mobility aid, such as a cane, walker, or wheelchair, please disclose this information at the time of booking.
To ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience for the entire group, our tours are designed with a specific itinerary in mind. This may involve moderate walking, uneven terrain, or stairs. While some itinerary adjustments may not be possible, we'll do our best to find alternative solutions within the planned activities whenever possible.
Open communication helps us ensure your tour is a perfect fit and it allows your local guide or tour leader to assist you where possible.
Information for CPAP Users
If you use a CPAP machine, please let us know at the time of booking. Some portions of our itinerary, like overnight cruises or camping tours, may have limited access to power outlets. In such cases, we recommend travelling with portable battery packs.
Certain activities, like overnight journeys on board smaller vessels, may not be suitable for CPAP use due to space limitations or noise concerns. We can discuss these potential limitations upfront and help you make informed decisions about your tour.
Please ensure that you check the voltage used throughout the countries you are travelling to and if it will be compatible with your machines. For example, Japan runs on 100 volts vs Australia at 220-240 volts, meaning a voltage converter might be required.
Documentation
Tour documentation is typically emailed to the lead passenger or your travel agent between 14-30 days before your scheduled departure. This will include your final hotel list.
Child policy
Children must be 5 years old or above and share a room with parents at all times. Children are charged the same price as adults.
Official Travel Advice
To ensure a smooth and enjoyable journey, we recommend referring to the official travel advisory website of your home country for the latest updates on your chosen destination. These websites provide valuable information on:
Here are some helpful links to get you started:
In the unlikely event of a situation that could potentially disrupt your tour, we want to assure you of the following:
By staying informed and working together, we can ensure a fantastic travel experience for you. We will post our own travel updates to our website here.
Connect with fellow travellers on Facebook
During your booking journey, you might have received an email inviting you to join a special Facebook group dedicated to your chosen destination. These vibrant online communities are exclusively for Inspiring Vacations travellers headed to the same incredible place. Joining this group unlocks a wealth of information and connections. Swap travel tips, share packing insights, or even see if anyone's interested in travelling together.
We also regularly host insightful webinars featuring travel experts who share their tips and tricks for navigating your destination and maximising your itinerary. Don't miss out on this amazing opportunity to connect, learn, and get even more excited about your upcoming tour!
Starting Point
Your starting hotel may differ from the original itinerary. Please refer to your final documentation which will be provided approximately 14-30 days before departure for your confirmed hotel list. If you need to book pre-tour accommodation independently, we suggest you do this only once you have received your final hotel list for your tour. If you would like to book something sooner, we recommend that you book using a flexible rate that can be cancelled through your chosen third-party provider without penalty.
Travellers will arrive at various times throughout the day depending on flights booked. If arriving before standard check-in time, which is generally 3pm, you are welcome to leave your luggage at hotel reception and explore your surroundings until check-in becomes available as there are no scheduled activities on day 1 of the itinerary. The hotel may grant early check-in, however this is strictly subject to availability and at the hotel’s discretion.
Note: if you need to apply for a tourist visa before departure, we recommend using the details of the suggested hotel on the tour itinerary if you wish to fulfil this before the release of your final tour documentation. Please refer to our visa section for more information on whether or not a visa is required for your destination.
Arrival Details
An Arrival airport transfer is included as part of your package from the airport to the BSÍ bus station downtown.
Optional Airport Transfers - Transfer Portal
Depending on the package purchased, you may have the option to add airport transfers to your booking and you can do so through your Traveller Hub account. We partner with an online marketplace where travellers can compare and select the transfer of their choice. How to book information can be found on our FAQ page or visit: https://wiki.inspiringvacations.com/knowledge/how-to-add-transfers-to-your-booking
Inspiring Vacations acts as an agent on behalf of our transfer service partner and any service is delivered by the provider. Inspiring Vacations cannot be held liable for any loss resulting from the transfer service provided. It is the customer's responsibility to ensure any transfer booked meets the requirements of any other travel arrangements. Likewise, your tour leader or any of our on-ground representatives cannot be held responsible for the service of your transfer nor are they in a position to assist with amending your reservation. Any transfer booking is separate from any other booking with Inspiring Vacations, regardless of whether purchased with regards to the same travel journey.
When you make your transfer service booking, you will receive a confirmation email and this will include your meeting instructions, as well as direct contact details. Please ensure you print and bring this with you as you will need to ensure you can make direct contact with your transfer service provider.
Welcome Meeting Instructions
You will have a Welcome Meeting after breakfast on Day 2, where you will meet your tour leader and the rest of your group, share important information, and hear all about your adventure to come.
In Case of Emergency
Although we strive to deliver exceptional holiday experiences, unforeseen circumstances can occasionally arise during travel. If any issues arise during your tour, it's essential to promptly communicate them to your tour leader or local representative. This ensures they can take immediate action to address the problem and mitigate any negative impact on the remainder of your journey.
We understand that there may be instances where your tour leader or local representative is unable to resolve a situation to your satisfaction. In such cases, we encourage you to request that the tour leader or local representative escalate the matter to their direct manager for further assistance.
You also have the option to share details in your online feedback after the tour. However, please keep in mind that it's challenging for us to offer practical assistance once the tour is completed. Therefore, notifying us while still travelling allows us the chance to address the issue in real-time and provide a timely resolution.
For general contact details please visit the Contact Us page on our website.
When your final tour documentation is released, this will include an emergency contact for our local travel partner while you are on tour. If this is not included in your documentation, you will receive this on arrival during your welcome meeting.
Pace
This tour category is 3 out of 5
Balanced exploration with walking tours: Our most popular style, this tour offers a good mix of planned activities and free time. Expect moderate daily walking tours, so pack comfortable shoes.
As a general requirement across all of our tours, you may be required to walk up and down stairs, get on and off transportation, handle your own luggage, and participate in all scheduled sightseeing that may be conducted on uneven ground and terrain. Any physical ailments you may have must be disclosed at the time of booking to determine your suitability and where required, supporting documentation may be requested to ensure that we are comfortable that you will enjoy your tour.
Group Size
Minimum: 4 people, Maximum: 24 people
Escorted Style
From Days 2 - 4 your tour is fully escorted by a driver guide who will accompany you throughout the tour.
Tour Type
Our expertly crafted Small Group Tour takes you to iconic landmarks and hidden treasures, ensuring a rich blend of must-see sights. Unwind in comfortable accommodations after each day filled with sightseeing alongside your dedicated tour leader, leaving you free to explore at your own pace during designated free time. Benefit from smaller group sizes, creating a truly unforgettable travel experience.
Exclusions
Optional Tours
To secure your spot and enjoy the best rates, pre-booking these tours in advance is highly recommended. While some tours require a minimum number of participants to operate, you'll be fully refunded if the tour is cancelled at your destination for this reason. Our optional tours are typically led by your tour leader or local guide. Please note that transportation to and from the optional tours may not be included, but your tour leader will be happy to assist you with navigating public transportation options like trains or taxis to reach the starting point.
Travelling in a group
Travelling in a group means you will experience both the pleasures and perhaps at times, some of the frustrations of travelling with people you don’t know. The good news is you all have at least one thing in common: a love of travel and exploration. Your fellow travellers will probably come from different parts of the world, and fall into different age groups. We ask you to be understanding of the various needs and preferences of your group—patience with your fellow travellers is sometimes required for the overall benefit of the group.
We kindly ask that when you are requested to be at a place at a certain time that you respect this request from your tour leader or local guide. Due to privacy reasons, we are unable to provide you with contact details and any personal information about your fellow travellers booked on your tour before departure.
Community Guidelines
Inspiring Vacations does not tolerate any kind of violence, harassment (whether physical, verbal or sexual), or disrespect toward fellow travellers, our teams (Inspiring Vacations Tour Leaders and local expert guides) or local communities.
Any behaviour that prevents your Inspiring Vacations Tour Leader from continuing the itinerary as planned, breaks local laws or opposes any of these guidelines, may result in Inspiring Vacations removing you from the tour.
If something concerns you during your travels, please speak to your Inspiring Vacations Tour Leader immediately. Alternatively, when you are on-tour and require immediate support you can contact our Customer Support team and select the “On-Tour” option when listening to the options.
Inspiring Vacations Tour Leader vs. Local Guide
While both tour leaders and local guides enrich your travel experience, their roles differ. Tour leaders, who often accompany you for the entire tour, handle logistics, ensure smooth sailing of the itinerary, and act as your point of contact for any concerns. They might provide general information about destinations, but in-depth historical or cultural knowledge often comes from local guides. Local guides, frequently native to the area, lead tours at specific sites or attractions, offering a deeper understanding of the local history, art, or way of life.
Coach Transportation
The size of your coach will comfortably accommodate your group. There's usually room for some extra seats, ensuring a relaxing journey. Your luggage will be safely stored either underneath the coach or in a dedicated trailer.
While the exact coach style may vary depending on the departure, all our coaches offer comfortable seating. Keep in mind that Wi-Fi and charging outlets might not always be available. To stay connected and avoid dead batteries, we recommend fully charging your devices beforehand or bringing a portable charger.
For longer journeys, we'll make sure to include ample restroom breaks along the way, so you can freshen up and recharge at your convenience, as facilities are not on-board the coach.
Itinerary Changes
When travelling during winter in Iceland it's important to be aware that weather conditions can be unpredictable and change rapidly. Heavy snowfall, blizzards, and icy roads can impact transportation and outdoor activities. To ensure your safety and enjoyment, your tour leader may need to adjust the itinerary at short notice. These changes might include altering transportation methods, substituting activities, or modifying the tour schedule. Your tour leader will always prioritise your safety and will communicate any changes with the group. Flexibility is key to making the most of your winter adventure, as unexpected weather can sometimes lead to unique and unforgettable experiences.
Iceland's volcanic landscape is a testament to the raw power of nature. While eruptions are infrequent, they offer a unique opportunity to witness the earth's dynamic forces. It's essential to stay informed about current volcanic activity and heed any warnings from local authorities.
Please note that if an eruption were to occur during your visit, your itinerary may need to be modified to ensure your safety. For further information, please refer to Visit Iceland and Iceland’s Department of Civil Protection and Emergency Management website:
Visit Iceland: Volcanic activity on the Reykjanes Peninsula
Department of Civil Protection and Emergency Management
Staying Connected
If you want to stay connected and access reliable internet while on tour, there are a few options available. It is possible to purchase a virtual sim and we recommend contacting your mobile phone provider for assistance in doing so. You can add a roaming data plan to your existing phone contract is another option, albeit an expensive one. You will need to arrange this before departure. Purchasing a local SIM at the airport is the final option. For a prepaid fee, you can get data by simply swapping your current SIM with your new SIM and depending on which package you purchase, you’ll be able to text and make phone calls, just as you would at home.
We also recommend downloading WhatsApp and using this to communicate with other group members while on tour, and of course, after the tour if you’d like to stay in touch. Our tour leaders may also use this as a means of communicating essential tour information with you, as well as if you choose to add-on transfers to your booking, as your driver may use this to confirm arrangements with you.
Getting Around
Winter travel in Iceland offers stunning landscapes but also presents challenges. Expect cold temperatures, abundant snowfall, and icy conditions. Roads can be slippery and may impact getting to places. Public transportation, like buses and trains, generally operates as scheduled, but delays due to weather are possible. Air travel might also be affected by severe weather.
While exploring Iceland, some days will feature longer drives as we journey through stunning landscapes and connect iconic destinations. Though these travel days can feel lengthy and occasionally a bit uncomfortable, our comfortable coach, scenic views, and planned breaks will help make the journey more manageable, ensuring you're ready for the next unforgettable experience.
Hotel Ratings
Star ratings can differ between countries, reflecting diverse standards and amenities. To give you the most accurate picture possible, we don't just rely on a single source for hotel ratings. We go beyond by researching various trusted travel websites like Tripadvisor and Booking.com. This allows us to analyse a wider range of genuine customer reviews and experiences, giving you a well-rounded understanding of the hotel's typical star rating.
This means you can book with confidence, knowing the hotel has a strong track record of satisfied guests.
Accommodation Details
We have chosen hotels in Iceland that we feel offer good service to our guests. Hotels are clean and comfortable, and in the countryside are often located in beautiful natural areas. It‘s important to keep in mind during your trip that Icelandic hotels are similar to those in many other European countries. Hotel rooms are often smaller in size when compared to hotel rooms in other regions. Double occupancy rooms also usually have twin beds. If you request a double bed, two twin beds are usually connected to make one comfortable bed. Some comfort standard hotels, mainly in the Reykjavik area, have rooms with queen size beds. King size beds are not available at most hotels.
Packing Essentials
Depending on the nature of the tour, the Icelandic unpredictable weather usually means to pack warmer clothes.
To make sure that you are prepared for whatever the weather decides to throw at you, it is essential that you pack;
Other essential items include your camera, passport, any visas (if you need those), chargers for your phone,camera, sunglasses and any additional personal hygiene items that you use.
Help to protect Iceland’s nature! We encourage you to pack a flask or reusable water bottle and a reusable shopping bag.
Luggage Requirements
We want to ensure your journey with us is as enjoyable as possible. We understand that travelling during the winter season in Norway may pose challenges. Given you are responsible for handling your own luggage throughout the trip, please be aware that moving luggage in snow or icy conditions can be challenging. For this reason, and to ensure that we are not exceeding the overall luggage allowances on our ground transportation, we recommend packing light (not exceeding 20kg per person) and being prepared for such conditions.
Climate
Iceland's weather is as dynamic as its landscape. Known for its rapid changes, you can experience four seasons in one day. Even in summer, chilly temperatures and rain are common. Winters are harsh, with snow and ice covering much of the country. Packing layers is essential, as you'll likely need to adjust your clothing throughout the day. Wind is another factor to consider, so windproof gear is highly recommended. Be prepared for any weather condition and embrace the adventure of experiencing Iceland's unique climate.
Currency and ATMs
The Icelandic currency unit is the Krona (ISK). Money can be easily exchanged at the airport, bank, and currency exchanges.
All major credit cards are accepted and can be used to pay for virtually anything from taxis to restaurants and shops to petrol/gas stations (exception: the public buses).
Icelanders generally no longer use cash, preferring credit or debit cards, but cash is accepted in most places.
ATM/Bank machines are found in most banks and many other locations throughout the country. Look for the Hraðbanki sign. Please note that you must have your pin code when paying with debit or credit cards.
Be aware that your home bank and the ATM operator may charge you fees for international withdrawals. Check with your bank before your tour to understand their foreign transaction fees.
Food and Allergies
Iceland serves some of the world’s freshest fish and seafood. Meat is organic and locally produced. Icelandic lamb is especially popular. Iceland’s delicious dairy products come from a local breed of cows that are fed a hormone-free and natural diet. Reykjavik’s dining options are just as varied as in any capital city. Vegetarians will have no problem finding delicious, organic, and vegan-friendly meals. To support sustainable practices, consider choosing restaurants that prioritise local and seasonal produce. Many establishments offer dishes featuring Icelandic specialties like lamb, Arctic char, and langoustine. By making conscious choices, you can contribute to preserving Iceland's rich culinary heritage.
Fast food options – from burgers to burritos – can also be found almost everywhere. Iceland has numerous restaurants with international cuisine from Asian, South American to Indian.
By planning, researching restaurants, and being open to exploring alternative options, you can still enjoy the delightful flavours of this region on your tour!
While travelling with Inspiring Vacations you'll enjoy iconic sightseeing, as well as experience the vast array of culinary offerings. While many meals will be eaten together with your group, not all meals are included in your tour which gives you maximum flexibility in deciding where, what, and with whom to eat. If you have dietary requirements and/or food allergies, please let our Customer Support Team know before departure. Your Inspiring Vacations Tour Leader or local representative will also be able to give suggestions on which restaurants to try during your tour.
While our leaders will assist you where they can, there may be some included meals that are decided in advance and therefore cannot be altered or modified for different diets. For those with a particular food allergy, your Inspiring Vacations Tour Leader will endeavour to advise the main ingredients in the dishes consumed. It is, however, still your responsibility to ensure that you do not ingest any problematic ingredients.
Local Customs
It's always a good idea to learn something about local customs before you travel. Icelanders pride themselves on their respect for nature and its delicate ecosystems. It's essential to adhere to marked paths, avoid disturbing wildlife, and practise responsible waste management. Additionally, Icelanders value personal space and quiet, especially in public areas. Respecting these customs will enhance your experience and contribute to preserving Iceland's natural beauty.
Responsible Dining
We support the protection of endangered species around the world. Although a global ban on commercial whaling came into effect in 1986, approximately 1,000 whales are still being killed every year. We do not visit places that serve whale meat on any of our tours, nor will your leader guide you to where it is offered.
When dining in Iceland, choose local, seasonal foods and support small businesses to enjoy authentic cuisine while reducing your environmental impact. Opt for sustainably sourced fish and avoid controversial dishes like whale meat or puffin. Be mindful of food waste by ordering only what you can finish, use refillable water bottles to avoid plastic waste, and look for eco-friendly packaging. Embrace Icelandic food culture by trying traditional items like skyr or rúgbrauð, helping to preserve both the environment and local heritage.
Tipping your Leader
Tipping in the Nordic region is not compulsory, however, they are much appreciated, especially as a reward if guests feel someone has delivered good service. Tips and gratuities are not included for this package and are discretionary. If you wish to reward good service, the suggested amounts are:
Local assistant or guide transfer: €10 per person, per service
Guide: €5-6 per person, per day
Driver: €5-6 per person, per day.
Safety and Security
Scandinavia and Iceland are generally safe , but taking precautions are always wise. When exploring the outdoors, inform someone of your itinerary and expected return time. Be prepared for changing weather conditions and dress appropriately. Driving conditions can be challenging, especially in winter, so exercise caution and adhere to road signs. Respecting nature and local customs will also contribute to a safe and enjoyable trip.
Most national governments provide regularly updated foreign travel advice on safety issues involved with international travel. We recommend that you check your own government's advice for the most up-to-date travel information before departure and ensure that your travel insurance covers you for all destinations and activities on your tour.
Your Inspiring Vacations Tour Leader or local representative will accompany you on all included activities listed on the itinerary, however, you'll have some free time to explore on your own. While your Inspiring Vacations Tour Leader or local guide will assist you as best they can with your requests and the options available outside your itinerary, please note Inspiring Vacations makes no representations about the safety of the activity or the standard of the operators running the activity. Please use your judgement when selecting an activity in your free time.
Please also note that your Inspiring Vacations Tour Leader or local guide has the authority to amend or cancel any part of the itinerary if it's deemed necessary due to safety concerns.
Seismic Activity in Iceland
Iceland, a land of fire and ice, is renowned for its dynamic geological activity. While this creates breathtaking landscapes, it's essential to be aware of seismic activity when planning your trip.
Apps to Download
Some useful apps you may want to consider downloading before your tour include Google Translate, the lens function is especially useful when wanting to read product labels, signs, and menus. Google Maps with offline maps downloaded is great for easy navigation without being reliant on wifi.
We generally always recommend that you download a reliable transportation app for the country you are visiting in case you need to get around on your own.
In Iceland Strætó displays bus timetables and routes as well as having the convenience of being able to purchase electronic tickets for public transport.
And of course, there is an app called My Aurora Forecast & Alerts that is packed with features to help you maximise your chances of seeing the Aurora Borealis. It provides:
Post-Tour Feedback
Once your booking is confirmed, you will receive a link to a post-purchase survey, which is your opportunity to share your feedback with us on your booking experience and interactions with our Sales and Customer Success teams. This feedback is invaluable to ensure that we are servicing our customers to the best of our ability.
Furthermore, towards the end of your travels and while you are in your destination, you will receive an email from us with a link to an in-depth trip survey. Your tour leader or local guide may also provide you with a QR code that you can scan using your device to access our survey straight away. It is very important to us that we hear from our customers to ensure that we continue to meet and exceed customers' expectations, so this will be your opportunity to let us know how your trip has been, what has worked well and potentially what could be improved.
Finishing Point
Your finishing hotel may differ from the original itinerary. Please refer to your final documentation which will be provided approximately 14-30 days before departure for your confirmed hotel list. If you need to book additional post-tour accommodation, please do so once you have the final hotel list. We recommend booking a flexible rate that can be changed or cancelled without penalty should there be any unforeseen changes to your booking.
Travellers will depart at various times throughout the day depending on flights booked. Check-out time is generally from 10am-12pm. You are welcome to leave your luggage at the hotel reception and spend your final moments of free time exploring the area or please speak with hotel staff if you would like to extend your check-out time. This service is subject to availability and will likely come at an additional cost payable directly.
Departure Details
A departure airport transfer is included from your hotel to the airport with Flybus, this must be pre-booked and is operated at set times.
This is a land only package.
This package does not include international airfares. If you would like to add airfares to your booking our flight portal will be available via your Traveller Hub. The flight portal will allow you to search for all available airfares to your destination. The function works like most general flight search engines allowing you to select your preferred airline, book different cabin classes (eg. Business class) and view flight durations and transit times to your destination.
The flight portal will be available via your Traveller Hub once the following criteria has been met:
Visit our Flight Hub for more information on terms and conditions, amending your flights and information on luggage allowances.
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