North Iceland: whales, volcanoes and wild fjords
Northern Islande reveals its Arctic fjords, its steaming geothermal waters and its auroras dancing on volcanic snow.
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 northern lights, nacre clouds (glitský in Islande) 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 cool air. Activities are varied: sledding trips, **snowshoeing 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 hiking or a domestic flight to the North.
The stages of your journey
Highlights
Day-by-day itinerary
Welcome to Iceland!
Aéroport international de Keflavík → Reykjavik
Upon your arrival at Keflavík International Airport, take a shuttle or taxi to reach the center of Reykjavik, Iceland's capital.
You will have the opportunity to experience your first immersion in Iceland during an evening in the welcoming and dynamic atmosphere of this Nordic city.
Heading North
From Reykjavik
This morning, you join Reykjavik's domestic airport, located approximately 2 km from the city center. This short journey of around 5 minutes by taxi or vehicle takes you to the terminal where your discovery of northern Islande begins.
You board a flight to Akureyri, the capital of northern Islande. As the journey unfolds, volcanic landscapes give way to the vast wild expanses of the island's interior. When the sky is clear, the Hofsjökull glacier offers a spectacular panorama from the air.
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.
From Akureyri
After picking up your rental car, you drive along the shores of l'Eyjafjörður to the peaceful village of Svalbarðseyri. This short journey offers a nice overview of the landscapes of northern Islande. If you wish, a stop at Forest Lagoon will allow you to enjoy a moment of relaxation in its geothermal waters before heading to your accommodation.
Lake Mývatn and Its Volcanic Wonders
Driving
You leave the shores of l'Eyjafjörður to join the Mývatn Lake region. Your discovery begins at Skútustaðir, where the famous pseudo-craters testify to the intense volcanic activity that shaped these landscapes thousands of years ago.
Driving
A few minutes' drive is all it takes to reach Dimmuborgir, an impressive labyrinth of lava formations with striking silhouettes. This emblematic site, nicknamed the "black castles", invites you to take a pleasant walk through a landscape shaped by ancient volcanic flows.
Driving
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 the surrounding mountains. 1h30 to 2 hours round trip hiking.
Driving
The road then takes you to the geothermal site of Námaskarð. Fumaroles, bubbling mud pools and mineral deposits in yellow, orange and red hues create a spectacular landscape where the power of the Earth is expressed in the open sky.
To Lac Mývatn
After this immersion into the heart of volcanic phenomena, take a break to relax in the geothermal baths of Mývatn. Their naturally warm waters offer a moment of relaxation with a breathtaking view of the surrounding landscapes.
From Lac Mývatn
On the way back, a stop at the majestic Goðafoss waterfall is a must. In winter, the spray frozen by the cold and snowy landscapes make this site even more spectacular.
Driving
You return to your accommodation after a day full of discoveries. In winter, the snow-covered landscape highlights the volcanic reliefs, offering the perfect backdrop for photographers seeking spectacular scenery.
Hot springs and Nordic hiking
From Svalbarðseyri
Along the shores of Eyjafjörður, you reach the Forest Lagoon, nestled in a peaceful natural setting where the forest meets the waters of the fjord.
Take advantage of this day to explore the fjord and its many hot springs. The Forest Lagoon invites you to dive into a 37°C pool, nestled in the heart of a forest of pines and birches.
Driving
The road continues along the fjord to the small fishing village of Hauganes, offering magnificent views of the surrounding mountains.
The drakkar of Hauganes offers you an authentic swim on the black sand beach.
Driving
You join the neighboring village of Árskógssandur, an unusual stop on the edge of the fjord.
At Árskógssandur, you can experience the unique sensation of a hot beer bath.
To Eyjafjörður
Continue your discovery of Eyjafjörður by stopping at one of the many municipal pools in the region.
Don't forget to discover the many municipal swimming pools for a "bathing the Icelandic way"!
From Eyjafjörður
If you wish to extend this day, head towards the Mývatn region, whose volcanic landscapes offer a spectacular setting in winter.
For thrill-seekers, head to the Mývatn region for a snowshoe hike, where you can admire the stunning natural landscapes.
Eyjafjörður → Svalbarðseyri
In the late afternoon, you head back to your accommodation, crossing the magnificent landscapes of northern Iceland one last time. From your room you will be able to observe the northern lights.
Must-Do Activities at the Fjord
Svalbarðseyri → Eyjafjörður
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 hike in the highlands, whether by snowshoes, cross-country skiing or alpine skiing.
From Eyjafjörður
If you prefer to discover more of the region, take the road along the coast to Siglufjörður, one of the most beautiful villages in northern Islande, formerly the capital of herring fishing.
Eyjafjörður → Svalbarðseyri
At the end of the day, you head back to your accommodation.
Hot Springs and Hiking
This day offers several options: return to Mývatn, hike in the fjord, enjoy the baths or participate in activities such as snowmobiling, whale watching excursions, or dog sledding, perfect for family moments with animals.
Days 4, 5 and 6 can be exchanged according to your preferences, the weather and your energy level.
Activities may vary depending on the time of year. Dog sledding is mainly available from January to March, while northern lights are visible between September and March.
For skiing and snowshoe hiking, it is recommended to visit between December and April. Whale watching is possible until October and resumes from March onwards.
Return to Reykjavik
Svalbarðseyri → Vatnsnes
To leave northern Islande, you take the road towards the Borgarnes region, passing through the magnificent Vatnsnes peninsula. This route gives you the opportunity to explore a seal colony and admire the breathtaking landscapes of the Northwest: impressive gorges, sparkling frozen waterfalls, unique rock formations, majestic fjords and picturesque bays. Depending on your choice, you will have the possibility to spend the night either in the vibrant heart of the capital, or in the charming region of the West.
You then join Reykjavík in the evening, the Icelandic capital, where you rediscover the hustle and bustle of its streets, its restaurants and its contemporary Nordic atmosphere.
You spend the night in the vibrant heart of the capital.
Free day in Reykjavík
Iceland's capital is also full of enriching cultural visit opportunities. We recommend the must-see places according to your preferences.
Also remember to take advantage of the Sky Lagoon to enjoy a memorable final Icelandic bath.
See you soon in Islande!
Reykjavik → Aéroport international de Keflavík
After a final awakening in Iceland, it is time to head to Keflavík International Airport for your return flight.
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 insurance cancellation-repatriation
Included
- 8 nights in guesthouse-type accommodation in double or twin rooms with private and shared bathroom, breakfast included
- 1 whale watching boat excursion per person to observe humpback whales. Warm clothing provided and a hot beverage offered. Approximate duration 3 hours.
- 1 entry to Mývatn natural baths and 1 entry to Hvammsvik baths
- 4x4 vehicle adapted to the group size with SCDW insurance, zero deductible and available at the airport
- Detailed travel journal and road map
- English-speaking assistance on the ground 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 to Responsible Tourism
- Selection of service providers committed to sustainable tourism.
- Alkemia agency supports reforestation in Islande with the planting of approximately one tree per person.
- Assurance of working with a local agency.
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 — 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
