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.
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.
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
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 — 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
