Crampons and icebergs: a sporting immersion in the heart of Iceland
In summary
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Sports
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Duration7 days
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LevelAll levels
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DestinationEurope / Iceland
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AgeFrom 8 - 90 years
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CO₂-Emissions371.52 kg CO2
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Type of stayIndependent traveler
In a few words
Discover the raw power of nature on this 7-day self-drive tour through Iceland 's most iconic landscapes. This summer adventure combines the freedom of an independent road trip with the exclusivity of expertly guided experiences. Behind the wheel of your own vehicle, you'll explore the wonders of the Golden Circle , from the bubbling geysers of Geysir to the Þingvellir tectonic rift, before driving along the south coast to the majestic Skógafoss waterfalls.
The adventure intensifies with a spectacular Super Jeep expedition to the Þórsmörk Valley. This wild territory, nestled between glaciers, is only accessible by specialized off-road vehicle. You continue this glacial immersion with a Zodiac boat trip among the icebergs of Jökulsárlón and a crampon hike on the Sólheimajökull glacier tongue.
To complete this epic journey under the midnight sun , moments of serenity await you in the thermal waters of Laugarás . This well-balanced itinerary guarantees an in-depth exploration of Icelandic geology, from lagoons dotted with millennia-old ice to ash deserts. A trip designed for those who demand independence and top-of-the-range activities in the heart of Iceland's monumental natural landscape.
The highlights
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A road trip with complete freedom to discover the iconic sites of the Golden Circle
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Exclusive Super Jeep expedition in the wild Þórsmörk valley
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Zodiac boat trip among the icebergs and hiking with crampons on the glacier
Photos
Sport
Level
Summer multi-activity
In figures
Hiking
- Exposed Passages: Yes
Management
Program
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Day 1: Arrival and Reykjanes Geopark
- Transportation Car - 04h - 180km
- Accommodation 3-star hotel
- Breakfast not included
- Lunch not included
- Dinner not included
Welcome to Iceland! Your adventure begins at Keflavík International Airport, where you'll pick up your rental car and start your independent journey. Before heading to your first accommodation, take some time to explore the raw volcanic beauty of the Reykjanes Peninsula, a UNESCO Global Geopark.
You can visit the Bridge Between Two Continents , a symbolic footbridge spanning a gaping rift between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates. Continue your exploration at the Seltún geothermal area, where steaming vents and multicolored mud pools bear witness to the Earth's inner power. A journey along the mysterious, deep waters of Lake Kleifarvatn offers a serene yet spectacular introduction to Icelandic landscapes.
After enjoying these unique coastal panoramas, you will cross the peninsula southward. You will spend your first night in comfortable accommodation located in or near the charming villages of Hvolsvöllur or Hella , ideally positioned for your journey tomorrow along the south coast.
Day 1 -
Day 2: The Golden Circle and Spa Visit
- Transportation Car - 03h - 175km
- Activity Autre
- Accommodation 3-star hotel
- Breakfast included
- Lunch not included
- Dinner not included
This day is dedicated to the Golden Circle , Iceland's most iconic tourist route. Your first stop is Þingvellir National Park , a UNESCO World Heritage Site, where the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates meet. Hike through the spectacular Almannagjá Gorge before heading to the Geysir geothermal area. Here, you can watch the ever-present Strokkur geyser erupt, shooting boiling water several meters into the air.
Continue your journey to the powerful Gullfoss waterfall, a two-tiered cascade plunging into a deep canyon. You will also visit Kerið , an impressive volcanic crater lake famous for its deep blue waters and red volcanic rock walls.
To end your day, enjoy a rejuvenating soak in the luxurious Laugarás lagoon. This peaceful geothermal spa is the perfect place to relax before returning to your accommodation in southern Iceland.
Day 2 -
Day 3: Thor's Valley
- Transportation 08h - 140km
- Activity Hiking
- Accommodation 3-star hotel
- Breakfast included
- Lunch not included
- Dinner not included
Today, you'll leave the paved roads behind for a thrilling Super Jeep adventure in the heart of the Icelandic Highlands. Your destination is Þórsmörk Valley (Thor's Valley), a lush nature reserve nestled between towering glaciers. Each excursion is tailored to the day's weather, and your local guide will select the best route while sharing personal stories and myths that bring the landscape to life.
You'll experience the adrenaline rush of crossing unbridged glacial rivers and venture deep into pristine wilderness. The valley is a photographer's paradise, offering vibrant green birch forests that contrast sharply with the black volcanic sands. You might have the opportunity to explore spectacular canyons, climb to panoramic viewpoints, or spot local wildlife, such as the elusive Arctic fox. After this day of total connection with Thor's land, you'll return to your accommodation in the Hella or Hvolsvöllur area.
Day 3 -
Day 4: Southern Iceland and glacier hiking
- Transportation Car - 03h - 180km
- Activity Hiking
- Exposed passages Yes
- Breakfast included
- Lunch not included
- Dinner not included
Today, you'll travel along the famous south coast, a region characterized by towering cliffs and turbulent waters. Your first stop is Seljalandsfoss , an elegant waterfall where you can follow a path that leads directly behind the curtain of water. Nearby is Skógafoss , one of Iceland's largest waterfalls, where a staircase offers breathtaking views of the coastal plains.
The highlight of your afternoon is a hike on the Sólheimajökull glacier . Under the guidance of an expert, you will put on your crampons to explore the ancient ice of this glacial tongue.
Next, head to the spectacular black sand beach of Reynisfjara to admire the giant basalt columns and rocky spires of Reynisdrangar . Before settling in for the night, visit the charming village of Vík and its iconic red-roofed church. Your day ends near the town of Kirkjubæjarklaustur .
Day 4 -
Day 5: Glacial lagoons and Zodiac adventure
- Transportation Car - 04h - 242km
- Activity Autre
- Accommodation 3-star hotel
- Breakfast included
- Lunch not included
- Dinner not included
This day is a total immersion in Iceland's glacial landscapes. Begin with the Skaftafell Nature Reserve , a lush oasis nestled beneath the immense Vatnajökull ice cap, where you can hike to the Svartifoss waterfall and its basalt columns. Next, discover the "secret" Fjallsárlón lagoon. Smaller and more tranquil than its famous neighbor, it offers a spectacular view of the glacial front plunging into the water.
Continue your journey with a visit to the world-famous Jökulsárlón Lagoon and the adjacent Diamond Beach , where icebergs shimmer like crystals on the black sand. The highlight of the day is a Zodiac boat excursion on one of the lagoons. These agile vessels allow you to navigate deep within the iceberg field and get much closer to the towering glacier wall than larger ships.
You will return to your accommodation in Kirkjubæjarklaustur for the evening.
Day 5 -
Day 6: The Hidden Treasures of the South Coast
- Transportation Car - 04h30 - 270km
- Accommodation 3-star hotel
- Breakfast included
- Lunch not included
- Dinner not included
Today, you begin your journey back west to the vibrant capital, Reykjavík . Since this is a self-guided adventure, you set your own pace. You might choose to revisit one of your favorite waterfalls from the beginning of your trip or discover new gems like the spectacular Fjaðrárgljúfur canyon. This ancient, moss-covered gorge offers winding hiking trails with breathtaking views of the river below.
Further along the road, consider a stop at the Lava Center in Hvolsvöllur, a high-tech interactive exhibit where you can learn about the volcanic forces that shaped the island. As the coastline gives way to urban landscapes, you'll arrive in Reykjavík in time for a stroll through its colorful streets or dinner on the waterfront. The long summer twilight will give you plenty of time to soak up the city's vibrant atmosphere before heading to your accommodation in the heart of the city.
Day 6 -
Day 7: Last moments in the capital
- Transportation Car - 01h - 40km
- Breakfast included
- Lunch not included
- Dinner not included
Today marks the end of your Icelandic summer odyssey. If your flight schedule allows, enjoy your last morning soaking up the atmosphere of Reykjavík . Take one last stroll down the bustling Laugavegur shopping street to discover unique Icelandic design pieces or hand-knitted woolens. You could also visit the Old Harbour to watch the fishing boats and admire the glass architecture of the Harpa concert hall one last time.
Upon departure, you'll drive back across the lava fields of the Reykjanes Peninsula towards Keflavík International Airport. After returning your rental car and checking in, you can enjoy one last Icelandic pastry at one of the airport bakeries. You'll leave with a camera full of memories, from the midnight sun on the south coast to the drifting icebergs of glacial lagoons.
Day 7
Note
Please note: The itinerary may be rearranged to better suit your arrival date and time.
The program is dependent on road and weather conditions; therefore, it may be modified if conditions are unfavorable. This also includes activities. If extreme weather conditions affect your travel plans, you will be informed, and we will do our best to help you rearrange your stay or book alternative activities as needed.
Some activities may require a valid driver's license, or you may need to provide additional information to your travel advisor.
The weather in Iceland is very unpredictable, even in summer. Make sure you are well prepared and pack both warm and waterproof clothing.
Accommodation
Access
Go to the starting point
Price details
The price includes
- A personalized itinerary designed exclusively for you
- 6 nights in carefully selected accommodations
- A fully insured vehicle with WiFi available throughout your trip
- A guided Super Jeep tour to the Þórsmörk Valley
- A relaxing visit to the Laugarás lagoon spa
- A glacier hike on Sólheimajökull
- A Zodiac boat excursion on a glacial lagoon
- A detailed itinerary including local tips and in-depth information on Iceland's nature, history, and vibrant culture.
- A dedicated travel agent to oversee your itinerary
- 24/7 telephone assistance during your stay
- Breakfast is included every morning.
- All taxes included
The price does not include
- Flights to/from Iceland
- Personal travel insurance
- Fuel (petrol/diesel)
- Driving-related expenses (tolls, parking, etc.)
- Meals and drinks (unless otherwise stated)
- Any service not mentioned in the "Included" section
Options
- Flex fare and insurance
Practical information
Specific formalities
Specifics
Before your departure, check with the embassy or consulate regarding the entry and stay requirements for your destination country. You can also find this information on the France Diplomatie website ( https://www.diplomatie.gouv.fr/fr/dossiers-pays/ ).
In the case of flights with stopovers operated by different airlines, also check the entry requirements of the countries you are transiting through.
It is your responsibility to ensure you are in compliance, particularly regarding the validity of your identity documents (for example, some countries require your passport to be valid for at least six months after your return) , visa requirements, necessary vaccinations, and health recommendations. And don't forget to consider any customs restrictions and other potential requirements of your destination or transit country.
ℹ️ Information may change up to the departure date, remember to regularly check official websites.