Midnight Sun, Whales, Volcanism: The Authenticity of the North in Summer
In the heart of Eyjafjörður fjord, between active volcanoes, midnight sun and humpback whales.
Duration
10 days
From
€2,000/pers.
Ideal seasons
Jun, Jul, Aug
Style
Self-drive tour
Comfort
Charm & Character
Travelers
Couple, Solo, With friends
The spirit of travel
Let yourself be seduced by the splendor of the landscapes in northern Iceland, a region less visited than the south coast, but equally rich in diversity and offering many opportunities for hot spring bathing.
This circuit runs from April to September, for a minimum duration of 10 days. It is ideal for families, as well as for bird, whale and volcano enthusiasts. The itinerary includes four nights spent in the same accommodation in the North, with excursions as a base.
Depending on the period of your trip, it is possible to adjust the itinerary: for example, the Kjölur route is only accessible from mid-June onwards.
It is also recommended to consider extending your stay, as the North is full of varied activities.
This trip can be customized, with the possibility of including a guide for hiking or an internal flight to the North.
The stages of your journey
Highlights
Day-by-day itinerary
Welcome to Iceland!
Aéroport international de Keflavík → Borgarnes
Upon arrival at Keflavík International Airport, you collect your rental vehicle and head towards Borgarnes. You cross the vast lava fields of the Reykjanes Peninsula before reaching western Iceland. This region, steeped in history linked to the colonization of Iceland, reveals its heritage through the Icelandic sagas. You will spend the night there, with the opportunity to relax in a first warm bath after your journey.
The Golden Circle: Waterfalls, Tectonic Rift and Geysers
From Borgarnes
Start your day by exploring the majestic Hraunfossar waterfalls.
To Parc national de Thingvellir
Next, take the magnificent Kaldidalur track, known as the "cold valley", which runs along the Langjökull glacier to reach Thingvellir National Park. In this park, admire the rift, a unique phenomenon where the European and American tectonic plates separate, visible at the surface. Iceland is one of the rare places in the world where this natural spectacle can be observed directly from the mainland.
From Parc national de Thingvellir
Continue your adventure to Geysir, the famous geyser that inspired the name of this geological phenomenon.
End your day in a charming village in the heart of the Golden Circle, with the opportunity to relax in the warm waters of the Secret Lagoon.
The Icelandic Highlands
To Gullfoss
Start your day by discovering the spectacular Gullfoss waterfall, the third iconic site of the Golden Circle, which is located on your way to the Highlands.
Gullfoss → Kerlingarfjöll
You enter the Highlands via the Kjölur track, one of the two routes crossing Iceland from south to north. This part of your journey is synonymous with adventure. The landscapes seem endless, alternating between glaciers, solfataras and rhyolitic mountains, offering a true sense of escape, as if you were on another planet.
Kerlingarfjöll → Hveravellir
Enjoy beautiful hikes in the Kerlingarfjöll, then head to the Hveravellir region.
Hveravellir → Varmahlíð
You continue your journey northward toward Varmahlíð, where you spend the night.
Star-shaped stay in the heart of Eyjafjörður fjord
From Varmahlíð
To reach Eyjafjörður, you can make a stop at Hofsós and admire its famous swimming pool overlooking the Skagafjörður fjord.
To Siglufjörður
Continue your discovery with the Tröllaskagi peninsula, between mountain landscapes, Icelandic horses and small fishing villages. You can notably visit the charming port of Siglufjörður, rich in its history linked to Icelandic fishing.
Then, follow the west bank of the Eyjafjörður before crossing Akureyri to reach Helgafell Retreat Center, where you will stay for four nights.
This location serves as your starting point for exploring the various unusual sites in the north while enjoying the comfort of returning to the same accommodation each evening.
Helgafell is also the headquarters of our agency, which allows us to meet you and advise you throughout your stay.
Subject to availability, you will have access to a sauna, a garden and a beach. This intimate and peaceful setting is nestled in nature, by the water, while being close to attractions to visit and Akureyri, the "capital of the North", where you can enjoy excellent restaurants. Whales often cross near the house! In June and July, you will have the chance to admire the midnight sun illuminating the fjord, without ever plunging into it…
This star-shaped itinerary offers you the flexibility to adapt your schedule. For example, you can choose to go directly to Akureyri and Helgafell via the interior and reserve another day to explore the fjord and the peninsula.
Lake Mývatn and its volcanic wonders
On your way to Lake Mývatn, take time to explore the numerous volcanic sites that surround this magnificent place. You will be amazed by the earth bubbling beneath your feet, immersing you in the heart of the land of fire. On your itinerary, don't miss the famous Goðafoss, the waterfall of the Gods.
Make the most of your stay at Lake Mývatn by hiking to the top of Hverfjall crater, crossing the Dimmuborgir lava fields and visiting the Grjótagjá lava cave, not forgetting to venture among the solfataras of Hverir. Return to your Helgafell accommodation at the end of the day.
Note: Since you will be spending 4 nights in the same place, you have the flexibility to reverse the order of the days according to your preferences or weather conditions.
Driving
On your way to Lake Mývatn, don't miss the famous Goðafoss, the "waterfall of the Gods", one of Iceland's most beautiful waterfalls.
Goðafoss → Lac Mývatn
Continue your journey towards the lake Mývatn and take time to explore the numerous volcanic sites surrounding this magnificent place. You will be amazed by the earth bubbling beneath your feet, plunging you into the heart of the land of fire.
Make the most of your stay at lake Mývatn by hiking to the top of Hverfjall crater, crossing the lava fields of Dimmuborgir and visiting the lava cave Grjótagjá, not forgetting to venture into the middle of the solfataras of Hverir.
Return to your Helgafell accommodation at the end of the day.
Meeting the Whales
Enjoy an unforgettable day in the fjord with a 3-hour sea excursion to observe whales. This site is renowned as the best for this type of activity, with a provider that respects cetaceans.
Another option for your day is to discover Hrisey Island, considered the pearl of the fjord. Many hiking trails offer varied viewpoints over the fjord and allow you to experience the local fauna and flora.
Akureyri and its surroundings are also rich in hiking trails, museums, bird-watching spots (from May to August), fishing villages and hot springs by the sea.
When you are at Helgafell, feel free to enjoy the Forest Lagoon baths, taste the local gastronomy at Akureyri or participate in a yoga class or massage on site. Many visitors often choose to spend a day at our site to relax and admire the exceptional view.
North Coast and Dettifoss Waterfall
Helgafell → Husavik hut
Departure to Húsavík and the impressive gorges of the Jökulsá, including the canyon Ásbyrgi, which evokes the trace left by the hoof of Sleipnir, the famous horse of Odin.
To Dettifoss
We will also visit the Dettifoss waterfall, recognized as the most powerful in Europe.
Several hiking trails are available to enjoy the beauty of the surrounding landscapes.
Dettifoss → Mývatn
At the end of the day, head to Mývatn for a moment of relaxation in the local Blue Lagoon, followed by your return to the fjord.
Mývatn → Helgafell
Return to the fjord.
Seal colony and birds
From Helgafell
Departure towards the West in the direction of the small port of Reykir, embarkation point for the island of Drangey.
Boat
You join the island of Drangey, a perfect place for bird watching enthusiasts.
Boat
Return to Reykir port after your visit.
To Vatnsnes
You will have the opportunity to explore the Vatnsnes peninsula, where there is a seal colony. This day offers you the chance to admire splendid landscapes, contrasting with those of the Northeast region. You will spend the night nearby.
Return to Reykjavik
From Vatnsnes
You have the opportunity to extend your stay in the heart of nature by exploring the Hvalfjörður fjord and its new hot springs, or by hiking to the spectacular Glymur waterfall.
To Reykjavik
Alternatively, head directly to Reykjavik to take time to discover its museums and welcoming atmosphere.
To Reykjavik
You will then return to your accommodation for a well-deserved rest.
From Reykjavik
A final moment of relaxation at Sky Lagoon can also be an ideal option.
See you soon in Islande!
Reykjavik → Aéroport international de Keflavík
After a final morning in Iceland, it is time to head to Keflavík international airport for your return flight. If your flight is scheduled early in the morning, you have the option of spending the night near the airport.
Price per person
Indicative price per person, based on double room. Each trip is customized according to your preferences.
This trip can be tailored to your preferences
This itinerary provides an excellent foundation for discovery, but it can be fully customized. Our local advisors build each trip tailored to your budget, dates and preferences.
Not included
- International flight
- Personal annual cancellation-repatriation insurance
Included
- 9 nights in guesthouse-type accommodation in double or twin rooms with private and shared bathrooms, breakfast included
- 1 whale watching boat tour per person to observe humpback whales. Warm clothing provided and a hot beverage offered. Approximate duration 3 hours.
- 1 entrance to the Mývatn natural baths and 1 entrance to Hvammsvik baths
- 4x4 vehicle adapted to group size with SCDW insurance, 0 franchise and available at the airport
- Detailed travel journal and road map
- English-speaking assistance on site and personalized welcome in the North
Practical Information
Registration is considered firm and final after payment of a deposit of 30% of the total price and acceptance of the specific terms of sale.
The balance must be paid no later than 45 days before the departure date.
See our specific terms of sale for full details.
In the event of cancellation by the traveller, the following fees apply:
- Plus de 60 jours avant le départ : 40 % du prix total (acompte retenu)
- Entre 60 et 30 jours avant le départ : 50 % du prix total
- Moins de 30 jours avant le départ : 100 % du prix total
We strongly recommend taking out cancellation insurance. See our specific terms of sale for full details.
Les informations ci-dessous concernent les voyageurs ressortissants de l'Espace économique européen (EEE), de la Suisse et du Canada se rendant en Islande dans le cadre d'un séjour touristique. Les règles d'entrée pouvant évoluer, nous vous recommandons de vérifier les informations auprès des autorités officielles avant votre départ.
Passeport et carte d'identité
L'Islande est membre de l'espace Schengen. Les ressortissants de l'EEE et de la Suisse peuvent entrer en Islande avec un passeport ou une carte d'identité nationale en cours de validité.
Les ressortissants canadiens doivent quant à eux être munis d'un passeport valide pour toute la durée du séjour.
Le document de voyage doit être en bon état (pas de pages détériorées, déchirées ou modifiées).
Séjour touristique sans visa
Les ressortissants de l'Espace économique européen et de la Suisse bénéficient de la libre circulation au sein de l'espace Schengen et peuvent séjourner en Islande sans limitation de durée dans le cadre d'un séjour touristique.
Les ressortissants canadiens bénéficient d'une exemption de visa pour les séjours touristiques dans l'espace Schengen. Cette exemption permet un séjour pouvant aller jusqu'à 90 jours sur toute période de 180 jours dans l'ensemble des pays Schengen.
Les autorités peuvent demander :
un billet de sortie du territoire (vol retour ou continuation),
une preuve de ressources financières suffisantes pour la durée du séjour.
ETIAS (Système européen d'information et d'autorisation de voyage)
À partir de la date d'entrée en vigueur du système, les ressortissants canadiens devront obtenir une autorisation ETIAS avant de voyager dans l'espace Schengen, dont fait partie l'Islande.
Cette autorisation électronique préalable sera à demander en ligne avant le départ. Elle concernera les voyageurs exemptés de visa et permettra de transmettre certaines informations aux autorités :
informations du passeport
détails du voyage
informations personnelles et sanitaires
Nous vous recommandons de vérifier l'état d'avancement et la date d'entrée en vigueur de l'ETIAS auprès des autorités officielles avant votre départ.
Voyage avec des enfants
Les mineurs doivent être titulaires de leur propre document de voyage valide (passeport ou, pour les ressortissants de l'EEE et de la Suisse, carte d'identité nationale) couvrant la durée du séjour.
Dans certains pays, lorsqu'un mineur voyage sans l'un de ses parents, une autorisation de sortie du territoire peut être exigée selon la réglementation du pays de résidence.
Autres nationalités
Les conditions d'entrée peuvent varier selon la nationalité. Les voyageurs concernés doivent se renseigner auprès de l'ambassade ou du consulat d'Islande de leur pays de résidence.
Pour participer à nos voyages, il est fortement conseillé d'être assuré en assistance-rapatriement et frais médicaux à l’étranger.
Votre agence locale vous encourage à prendre connaissance du contrat spécifique élaboré avec notre partenaire CHAPKA ASSURANCES et AXA ASSISTANCE.
Pour souscrire à une assurance, connaître les garanties et les tarifs, suivez le lien ci-dessous.
CAP EXPLORER : La solution d’assurance complète conçue pour vivre sereinement votre voyage !
Choisissez la formule qui vous correspond le mieux:
Explorer'Multirisque
Explorer'Annulation
Explorer'Assistance
Explorer' Complémentaire Carte Bancaire
Spécifiques à nos voyages, nous suggérons fortement d’y souscrire.
Si vous choisissez de souscrire à l’une de ces formules, la convention détaillant l’ensemble des garanties et les modalités de déclaration du sinistre sont disponibles sur le site Internet de l'assureur.
Votre agence locale en aura connaissance, mais seul le participant est responsable du respect des procédures de déclaration de tout sinistre. Le participant doit donc conserver cette convention avec lui pendant toute la durée de son voyage.
Practical Information for a Self-Drive Tour in Iceland
- Itinerary: During this self-drive tour, we create a personalized itinerary based on your wishes, drawing on our local expertise and field experience in Iceland. A detailed day-by-day program will be provided for your reference, and we take care of booking your nights. You will also receive a road map at 1:600000 of the country as well as a travel journal containing all the information you need to make the most of your stay: supply locations, must-see attractions, unusual sites to discover, tourist traps to avoid, and restaurant recommendations…
- Vehicle: A 4x4 adapted to the number of participants.
- Accommodation: We favor charming guesthouses or B&Bs for their comfort, warm welcome and strategic location in relation to your itinerary. In certain regions, the choice of accommodations may be limited, so it is advisable to book as early as possible to benefit from a varied offer. We avoid standardized hotels and accommodations. Other accommodation options are available, such as 3 or 4-star hotels, or camping (summer only). Do not hesitate to contact us for any special requests.
- Travel Period: From May to September, with departures from late June for Kjolur.Commitments to Responsible Tourism
Choice of service providers committed to sustainable tourism.
The Alkemia agency supports reforestation in Iceland with the planting of approximately one tree per person.
Chapka — Cap Explorer
Our insurance partnerTravel with peace of mind with our partner Chapka. Cancellation, repatriation, medical expenses, baggage… All the coverage for a worry-free trip.
Travel with peace of mind — I'll handle the insuranceFrequently asked questions
Non, l'Islande fait partie de l'espace Schengen (hors UE mais associée). Les ressortissants français peuvent y voyager avec une carte d'identité ou un passeport en cours de validité. La monnaie est la couronne islandaise. Aucune formalité particulière à l'arrivée.
Rendez-vous dans la section Mes Voyages pour retrouver tous vos projets.
Vous pouvez envoyer un message à votre hôte directement depuis le Salon de Thé.
Pour un voyage sur mesure de qualité, comptez entre 300 et 480 euros par jour et par personne, incluant hébergement, repas, transports internes et activités. Les vols internationaux (200-500 euros A/R) sont en supplément. L'Islande est parmi les destinations les plus chères d'Europe.
Vos documents sont accessibles dans l'onglet Documents de votre voyage.
Absolument. Nous adaptons chaque circuit au profil des voyageurs. Pour les familles, nous privilégions des rythmes détendus, des hébergements familiaux, des activités ludiques et pédagogiques, et des transferts privés confortables. Nos guides locaux francophones savent capter l'attention des enfants avec des anecdotes adaptées à leur âge.
C'est simple. Vous échangez avec notre équipe locale pour définir vos envies, votre budget et vos dates. Vous recevez une proposition d'itinéraire détaillée sous 48 heures. Vous ajustez ensemble chaque détail jusqu'à la version parfaite. Vous confirmez et partez l'esprit tranquille. Votre agence locale reste disponible 7j/7 pendant toute la durée du voyage.
En cas d'urgence, contactez immédiatement votre agence locale.
Le paiement s'effectue généralement en deux fois.
Notre agence fait partie du réseau Nomadays, immatriculé en France. Vous bénéficiez de la garantie APST (Association Professionnelle de Solidarité du Tourisme) qui couvre 100% de vos fonds. Paiement sécurisé, assurance rapatriement incluse, et assistance francophone 24h/24 sur place pendant tout votre séjour.
Let's talk about your adventure — Southern Gold Circle
Contemplative Explorer of Icelandic Lands, based in Helgafell, Akureyri
Iceland naturally invites you to slow down. When you embrace its rhythm, its silences and its spaces, the journey becomes a true inner experience.
— Jean-Marc
