North Iceland: whales, volcanoes and wild fjords
Whales, Puffins & Reindeer 9 days Charm & Character

North Iceland: whales, volcanoes and wild fjords

Northern Iceland reveals its Arctic fjords, its steaming geothermal waters and its auroras dancing over volcanic snow.

From€2,000per person
16 years of local expertise4.8/5 (0 reviews)

Duration

9 days

From

€2,000/pers.

Ideal seasons

Jan, Feb, Mar, Sep, Oct, Nov, Dec

Style

Stay

Comfort

Charm & Character

Travelers

Couple, Solo, With friends, groupe

The spirit of travel

Winter is an enchanting period to admire the unique light of the northern lights, nacreous clouds (glitský in Icelandic) and sky hues evoking an endless sunset. It is also the ideal time to enjoy hot baths under these auroras, with your body at 38°C and your head in the fresh air. Activities are varied: sledge rides, snowshoe hikes and skiing. The North is perfectly suited for these leisure activities, offering favorable weather and optimal snow cover.

The stay takes place mainly at the Helgafell center, headquarters of the Alkemia agency, by the sea, with flexible discoveries depending on the weather. This stay, accessible to all, can be organized between September and late March.

The stay can be adjusted with a guide for hikes or a domestic flight to the North.

The stages of your journey

D1
ReykjavikHôtel à Reykjavik
D2–6
SvalbarðseyriNuit en guesthouse en bord de mer
D7–8
ReykjavikNuit à l'hotel à Reykjavik
D9
Aéroport international de Keflavík

Highlights

Guaranteed Northern Lights
Winter Humpback Whales
Active Volcanoes of Mývatn
Wild authentic fjords
Multiple geothermal baths
Helgafell Center Stay

Day-by-day itinerary

Jour 1
D1

Welcome to Iceland!

Upon arrival at Keflavík International Airport, take a shuttle or taxi to reach Reykjavik, Iceland's capital. This first evening marks the beginning of your immersion in Iceland. Take advantage of Reykjavik's friendly and dynamic atmosphere to discover your first impressions of this Nordic city and gradually absorb the Icelandic ambiance.

Hôtel à Reykjavik
Jour 2
D2

Heading North

This morning, join the Reykjavik domestic airport, located approximately 2 km from the city center. A short journey of approximately 5 minutes by taxi or vehicle will take you to the terminal. This step marks the beginning of your discovery of northern Islande and the continuation of your journey through Icelandic landscapes.

Reykjavik → Akureyri

45min250 km

You embark on a flight to Akureyri, the capital of northern Islande. As the journey progresses, observe the volcanic landscapes gradually give way to the vast wild expanses of the island's interior. When the sky is clear, you can also catch a glimpse of the Hofsjökull glacier and enjoy a panoramic view of its landscapes from the air.

Akureyri → Svalbarðseyri

15min13 km

After picking up your rental car, you drive along the shores of Eyjafjörður to the peaceful village of Svalbarðseyri. This short journey offers a beautiful glimpse of the landscapes of northern Islande. If you wish, a stop at Forest Lagoon will allow you to enjoy a relaxing moment in its geothermal waters before reaching your accommodation.

During your five-day stay, you will have the opportunity to participate in a guided snowshoe hike, enjoy a massage or take a yoga class. The guesthouse, perched on the seafront and far enough away from the village, is the ideal place to observe the northern lights.

Nuit en guesthouse en bord de merBreakfast
Jour 3
D3

Lake Mývatn and its volcanic wonders

You leave the shores of Eyjafjörður to reach the Lake Mývatn region, in the heart of the volcanic landscapes of northern Islande. Your discovery begins at Skútustaðir, where the famous pseudo-craters testify to the intense volcanic activity that shaped the region thousands of years ago.

A few minutes' drive takes you to Dimmuborgir, an amazing maze of lava formations with distinctive shapes. Nicknamed the "black castles", this emblematic site in the Lake Mývatn region is discovered along a pleasant walk through a mineral landscape shaped by ancient volcanic flows.

From Dimmuborgir, you reach the foot of the Hverfjall crater. Climbing it allows you to reach the summit of one of Iceland's most impressive volcanic cones, offering an exceptional panorama over Lake Mývatn, the lava fields and surrounding mountains. 1.5 to 2 hours of hiking round trip.

After this immersion into volcanic phenomena, take a relaxation break in the geothermal baths of Mývatn. Their naturally hot waters offer a moment of relaxation with breathtaking views over the surrounding landscape.

The road then takes you to the geothermal site of Námaskarð. Fumaroles, bubbling mud pools and mineral deposits in yellow, orange and red hues make up a spectacular landscape where the power of the Earth is expressed in the open air.

Lac Mývatn → Goðafoss

40min50 km

On the way back, a stop at the majestic Goðafoss waterfall is a must. In winter, the spray frozen by the cold and the snow-covered landscapes make this site even more spectacular.

You return to your accommodation after a day full of discoveries. In winter, the snow-covered landscape highlights the volcanic reliefs, offering a perfect backdrop for photographers seeking spectacular landscapes.

Nuit en guesthouse en bord de merBreakfast
Jour 4
D4

Hot Springs and Nordic Hiking

Following the shores of Eyjafjörður, you reach the Forest Lagoon, nestled in a peaceful natural environment.

Here, the forest meets the waters of the fjord, creating a setting conducive to a relaxing break in the heart of northern Islande's landscapes.

Take advantage of this day to explore the fjord and its many hot springs. The Forest Lagoon invites you to dive into a pool at 37°C, nestled in the heart of a pine and birch forest.
The Hauganes Viking ship offers you an authentic bathing experience on the black sand beach.
At Árskógssandur, you can experience the unique sensation of a warm beer bath.

Forest Lagoon → Hauganes

35min35 km

You continue your journey along the Eyjafjörður fjord until you reach the small fishing village of Hauganes. Throughout the journey, enjoy panoramic views of the fjord and the surrounding mountains, which accompany this new stage of your discovery of northern Islande.

You then head to the neighboring village of Árskógssandur, for an unusual stopover on the banks of the Eyjafjörður fjord. Take advantage of this break to continue discovering the villages that line the fjord and the atmosphere of northern Iceland.

Continue your discovery of Eyjafjörður by stopping at one of the many municipal pools in the region.

Eyjafjörður → Mývatn

1h3685 km

If you wish to extend this day, head towards the Mývatn region. In winter, its volcanic landscapes offer a striking setting and allow you to continue discovering the landscapes of northern Islande.

For adventure seekers, head to the Mývatn region for a snowshoe hiking expedition, where you can admire the breathtaking natural landscapes.

At the end of the day, you head back to your accommodation, crossing the landscapes of northern Iceland one last time.

Once settled in your room, you can observe the northern lights and end this day under the lights of the Icelandic sky.

Nuit en guesthouse en bord de merBreakfast
Jour 5
D5

Must-Do Activities at the Fjord

Take advantage of this day to explore the landscapes of the Eyjafjörður fjord at your own pace, between grandiose panoramas and fishing villages. This day is an excellent opportunity to enjoy the many hot springs of the fjord and to go hiking in the highlands, whether by snowshoes, cross-country skiing or alpine skiing.

If you prefer to continue exploring the region, take the road along the coast to Siglufjörður, one of the most beautiful villages in northern Islande. Once considered the herring fishing capital, this village makes for another stop on your itinerary through the north of the country.

At the end of the day, you head back to your accommodation.

Nuit en guesthouse en bord de merBreakfast
Jour 6
D6

Hot Springs and Hiking

This day gives you the choice between several experiences to continue your discovery of northern Iceland according to your wishes: return to the Mývatn region, go hiking in the fjord, enjoy the hot springs or opt for an activity such as snowmobiling, a whale watching sea excursion or a dog sledding outing, perfect for family moments with the animals. Days 4, 5 and 6 can be interchanged according to your preferences, weather conditions and your energy level.

The proposed activities also vary depending on the time of year. Dog sledding is mainly available from January to March, while northern lights can be observed between September and March. For skiing and snowshoe hiking, favor the period from December to April. Finally, whale watching outings are possible until October and resume from March onwards.

Nuit en guesthouse en bord de merBreakfast
Jour 7
D7

Return to Reykjavik

Svalbarðseyri → Vatnsnes

6h40430 km

To leave northern Iceland, you take the road towards the Borgarnes region, passing through the Vatnsnes peninsula.

Along the way, you will have the opportunity to discover a seal colony and admire the landscapes of northwestern Iceland: gorges, frozen waterfalls, rock formations, fjords and bays punctuate your itinerary.

Depending on your choice, you spend the night in central Reykjavik or in the western region, to end this day in the atmosphere that suits you.

At the end of the day, you reach Reykjavík, Iceland's capital, and find yourself immersed in the hustle and bustle of its streets. Take advantage of this evening to soak in its contemporary Nordic atmosphere and discover its restaurants, after your itinerary through the landscapes of northern Islande.

You spend the night in the vibrant heart of the capital.

Nuit à l'hotel à ReykjavikBreakfast
Jour 8
D8

Free day in Reykjavík

The Icelandic capital is also full of enriching cultural visit opportunities. We point you to the places not to miss according to your preferences.

Also remember to take advantage of Sky Lagoon to enjoy one last memorable Icelandic bath.

Nuit à l'hotel à ReykjavikBreakfast

Price per person

1 pers.€2,000/pers.

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 cancellation-repatriation insurance

Included

  • 8 nights in guesthouse-type accommodation, double or twin room with private and shared bathroom, breakfast included
  • 1 boat excursion per person to observe humpback whales. Warm clothing provided and a hot drink offered. Approximate duration 3 hours.
  • 1 entrance to the natural baths of Mývatn and 1 entrance to the Hvammsvik baths
  • 4x4 vehicle adapted to group size with SCDW insurance, 0 deductible 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.

The information below concerns travelers who are nationals of the European Economic Area (EEA), Switzerland and Canada traveling to Iceland for a tourist stay. As entry rules may change, we recommend that you verify the information with the official authorities before your departure.

Passport and ID card

Iceland is a member of the Schengen area. Nationals of the EEA and Switzerland may enter Iceland with a valid passport or national ID card.
Canadian nationals must be in possession of a valid passport for the entire duration of their stay.
The travel document must be in good condition (no damaged, torn or altered pages).

Tourist stay without visa

Nationals of the European Economic Area and Switzerland benefit from freedom of movement within the Schengen area and may stay in Iceland for an unlimited duration for a tourist stay.

Canadian nationals benefit from a visa exemption for tourist stays in the Schengen area. This exemption allows a stay of up to 90 days within any 180-day period across all Schengen countries.

Authorities may request:

  • an exit ticket from the territory (return or onward flight),

  • proof of sufficient financial resources for the duration of the stay.

ETIAS (European Travel Information and Authorization System)

From the date the system comes into effect, Canadian nationals will be required to obtain an ETIAS authorization before traveling in the Schengen area, of which Iceland is a member.

This prior electronic authorization must be requested online before departure. It will apply to visa-exempt travelers and will allow certain information to be transmitted to the authorities:

  • passport information

  • travel details

  • personal and health information

We recommend that you check the progress and date of entry into force of ETIAS with the official authorities before your departure.

Traveling with children

Minors must hold their own valid travel document (passport or, for EEA and Swiss nationals, national ID card) covering the duration of the stay.

In some countries, when a minor travels without one of their parents, an authorization to leave the territory may be required under the regulations of the country of residence.

Other nationalities

Entry conditions may vary depending on nationality. Concerned travelers should inquire with the embassy or consulate of Iceland in their country of residence.

To participate in our trips, it is strongly advised to be covered for evacuation assistance and medical expenses abroad.

Your local agency encourages you to review the specific policy developed with our partner CHAPKA ASSURANCES and AXA ASSISTANCE.
To subscribe to an insurance plan, learn about coverage and rates, follow the link below.

CAP EXPLORER: The complete insurance solution designed to travel with peace of mind!

Choose the plan that best suits you:

  • Explorer'Multirisque

  • Explorer'Annulation

  • Explorer'Assistance

  • Explorer' Complémentaire Carte Bancaire

Specific to our trips, we strongly recommend subscribing to them.
If you choose to subscribe to one of these plans, the policy detailing all coverage and claim procedures are available on the insurer's website.

Your local agency will be aware of it, but only the participant is responsible for complying with claim reporting procedures. The participant must therefore keep this policy with them throughout their trip.

Commitments for Responsible Tourism

- Selection of service providers committed to sustainable tourism.

- Alkemia agency supports reforestation in Iceland with the planting of approximately one tree per person.

- Assurance of working with a local agency.

Chapka — Cap Explorer

Our insurance partner

Travel 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 insurance

Frequently asked questions

No, Iceland is part of the Schengen area (outside the EU but associated). French nationals can travel there with a valid ID card or passport. The currency is the Icelandic króna. No special formalities upon arrival.

Go to the My Trips section to find all your projects.

You can send a message to your host directly from the Tea Lounge.

For a tailor-made quality trip, budget between €300 and €480 per day per person, including accommodation, meals, internal transportation, and activities. International flights (€200-500 return) are additional. Iceland is one of Europe's most expensive destinations.

Your documents are accessible in the Documents tab of your trip.

Absolutely. We adapt each itinerary to the traveler's profile. For families, we prioritize relaxed pacing, family-friendly accommodations, fun and educational activities, and comfortable private transfers. Our English-speaking local guides know how to capture children's attention with age-appropriate anecdotes.

It's simple. You exchange with our local team to define your wishes, budget and dates. You receive a detailed itinerary proposal within 48 hours. You adjust every detail together until it's perfect. You confirm and travel with peace of mind. Your local agency remains available 7 days a week throughout your trip.

In case of emergency, contact your local agency immediately.

Payment is generally made in two installments.

Our agency is part of the Nomadays network, registered in France. You benefit from APST guarantee (Association Professionnelle de Solidarité du Tourisme) which covers 100% of your funds. Secure payment, repatriation insurance included, and English-speaking assistance 24/7 on site throughout your stay.

Jean-Marc, Contemplative Explorer of Icelandic Lands
16years of expertise

Let's talk about your adventure — Northern Mývatn

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

APST Guarantee Secure Payment 24/7 Assistance★ 4.8/5