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.
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.
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
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.
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
