Iceland
The must-sees of South Iceland
Réf : EISLGOX
In summary
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Sports
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Duration6 days
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LevelIntermediate
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DestinationEurope / Iceland
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AgeFrom the age of 18
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CO₂-Emissions99.85 kg CO2
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Type of stayIn a group
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Languages
French
English
In a few words
A true sanctuary of fire and ice, Iceland unfolds a raw nature with magnificent panoramas. As the seasons change, the island transforms: the magic of the midnight sun illuminates summer days, while the winter sky comes alive with the poetry of the Northern Lights .
This journey to the heart of the Nordic lands takes you from majestic fjords to dormant volcanoes , passing by immense glaciers and black sand beaches . The route showcases the treasures of the Golden Circle : the tectonic faults of Thingvellir , the power of the Gullfoss waterfall, and the spectacular eruption of Geysir . The itinerary also includes hidden gems, from soothing thermal springs to pristine waterfalls.
The adventure ends in the cultural effervescence of Reykjavik , where the conviviality of a traditional hot dog and the warm atmosphere of atypical bars seal this unforgettable journey close to the elements.
The highlights
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The jewels of the south: Golden Circle, glacial lagoons, black sand beaches
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Icelandic magic under the midnight sun or the Northern Lights
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From breathtaking waterfalls to the majestic icebergs of Jökulsárlón
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Photos
Sport
Level
Hiking / Trekking
For those wishing to hike for 4 to 5 hours a day, covering an elevation gain of around 600m on trails. You hike occasionally and are in good physical condition.
The expert's opinion
This trip is designed for an easy level of intensity, ideal for a first-time visit to Iceland. Each day, we take short walks to explore major natural sites, waterfalls, and glacial lagoons. We primarily walk on marked trails, boardwalks, or well-maintained tracks, without any technical difficulties.
However, Icelandic nature remains rugged: we sometimes traverse uneven, rocky terrain or areas made slippery by the spray of waterfalls (particularly at Skógafoss or Seljalandsfoss). A reasonable level of fitness and a willingness to walk a few hours a day at a leisurely pace are all that's needed to fully enjoy our exploration.
Management
During this stay, a supervisor will be present to guide and assist you.
Languages spoken:
French
English
French
English
Supervisor
Supervisor
Throughout our Icelandic adventure, from the first day to the last, we were accompanied by a French-speaking guide. He shared his knowledge of the local culture and the island's natural phenomena with us, while ensuring our stay ran smoothly.
For our land journeys, we also benefit from the expertise of a dedicated driver. He drives us safely on the roads of southern Iceland, allowing us to relax and fully enjoy the magnificent landscapes unfolding before our eyes.
Program
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Flight to Reykjavik (Custom flight not included, please contact us)
- Accommodation Bed and Breakfast
- Breakfast not included
- Lunch not included
- Dinner not included
We arrive in Iceland, the starting point of our adventure. At the end of the day, we meet our guide for a welcome meeting. Due to its very northern latitude, Reykjavik's daylight varies considerably from season to season: from about four hours of daylight in the depths of winter to nearly twenty-two hours in summer. We take advantage of this unique Arctic atmosphere for our first steps on the island. After our briefing, we head out for dinner with our group. It's the perfect opportunity to explore this vibrant coastal capital, soak up its atmosphere, and discover the local brewing scene.Day 1 -
Discovering the Golden Circle
- Transportation Minibus - 03h30 - 150km
- Accommodation Shared chalet
- Breakfast included
- Lunch not included
- Dinner not included
Today we set off to discover the wonders of the famous Golden Circle. Our first stop takes us to Thingvellir National Park, site of Europe's oldest parliament, founded in 930. There, we observe the Silfra fissure, which marks the visible separation between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates. We continue our journey to admire the powerful eruptions of the Strokkur geyser, before contemplating the impressive double waterfall of Gullfoss on the Hvita River. On the way to our accommodation, we have the opportunity to relax at the Secret Lagoon. Created in 1891, this historic pool offers soothing thermal water, naturally heated to 38°C.Day 2 -
Waterfalls and black sand beaches of the south coast
- Transportation Minibus - 05h - 300km
- Accommodation Bed and Breakfast
- Breakfast included
- Lunch not included
- Dinner not included
Today, we travel along Iceland's famous south coast, renowned for its exceptional scenery. Our exploration begins at Gluggafoss, an impressive waterfall cascading from the Merkja River. We continue to the spectacular Skógafoss waterfall. From the adjacent steps, we can observe numerous birds nesting in the rocks. Depending on the season, we reach the Dyrhólaey Nature Reserve with its headlands plunging into the ocean, before setting foot on the iconic black sand beach of Reynisdrangar. After passing through the village of Vík, our route stretches eastward to the magnificent scenery of the glacial lagoon and Diamond Beach. Finally, we arrive at our accommodation for the night.Day 3 -
Ice cap, Vatnajökull National Park and Vik
- Transportation Minibus - 03h - 150km
- Accommodation Bed and Breakfast
- Breakfast included
- Lunch not included
- Dinner not included
This morning, we can enjoy some free time or participate in optional activities, such as a walk on the Vatnajökull glacier or a summer sailing trip. Afterwards, we all meet up to explore Vatnajökull National Park. A short hike takes us to the famous Svartifoss waterfall, spectacularly framed by black basalt columns. Depending on the season, we may stop at Fjádrárgljúfur, an impressive, winding canyon carved by millennia of erosion. At the end of the day, we arrive in the coastal village of Vík for a free evening.Day 4 -
Majestic waterfalls and return to Reykjavik
- Transportation Minibus - 03h - 150km
- Accommodation Bed and Breakfast
- Breakfast included
- Lunch not included
- Dinner not included
We resume our journey towards Reykjavik, punctuating our trip with more magnificent waterfalls. First, we discover the iconic Seljalandsfoss, famous for allowing visitors to walk directly behind its powerful curtain of water. A short distance away lies Gljufrabui, an impressive waterfall nestled in a canyon, offering a more secluded atmosphere. Our natural exploration concludes with a visit to Urridafoss, the country's highest-flow waterfall, located on Iceland's longest river. In the afternoon, we arrive in Reykjavik for a guided orientation walk. This is the perfect opportunity to try the famous Icelandic hot dog, a true local institution and a firm favorite! We enjoy this last free evening in the capital, sharing a convivial moment and celebrating the end of our Icelandic adventure.Day 5 -
End of the adventure in Reykjavik
- Breakfast included
- Lunch not included
- Dinner not included
Our trip to Iceland comes to an end this morning after a final breakfast shared with the group. For those of us who wish to extend the experience, the exploration can certainly continue. We have the option of adding extra nights to our stay to enjoy the surrounding mountains a little longer. This is the perfect time to treat ourselves, at our leisure, to a unique snorkeling session in the crystal-clear waters of the Silfra fissure, or to relax in the geothermal hot springs of the Sky Lagoon, with its breathtaking ocean views.Day 6
Note
Depending on weather and operational conditions, the guide reserves the right to modify this itinerary.
Accommodation
During this stay, you will sleep in several different accommodations.
Access
Departure
Reykjavik
Day 1
: 00h00
End of stay
Reykjavik
Day 6
- 00h00
On the first day of our trip, we meet at our hotel in Reykjavik. It is advisable for us to arrive before 6:00 PM so that we can all participate in the welcome meeting that marks the beginning of our adventure.
Go to the starting point
The nearest airport isKEF - Reykjavik - Aéroport international de Reykjavik Keflavik
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Price details
The price includes
- The tour is led by a French-speaking guide and includes the services of a driver from day 1 to day 6.
- The 5 breakfasts.
- All land travel by private vehicle from day 2 to day 5.
- All the visits on the program: the Golden Circle (Thingvellir, Geysir, Gullfoss), the sites of the south coast (Dyrhólaey reserve, black beaches of Reynisfjara and Vík, Jökulsárlón lagoon, Diamond beach), exploration of the Vatnajökull park and the waterfalls (Skógafoss, Seljalandsfoss, Gljúfrabúi, Urriðafoss).
- A walking tour of the capital Reykjavik at the end of the stay.
- Tourist taxes for overnight stays on days 1, 3 and 5.
The price does not include
- International flights (Custom flights not included, please contact us)
- Airport transfer
- Early arrival or late departure at the hotel
- Meals indicated as free
- Personal expenses
- Meals not included
- Drinks
- Optional activities
- Tips
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.
Equipment
Equipment to bring
- A bath towel
- A personal first aid kit
- Sunscreen (face and lips)
- A lip balm
- A water bottle of at least 1 liter
- High-protection sunglasses
- A headlamp, with spare batteries
- Waterproof bags for your belongings
- A rain cover for your backpack
- A specialty from your region to discover and share together
Optional:
- Walking pole(s): they are a valuable aid to save your knees on the descent (up to 30% of your weight and that of your bag are supported by the poles) and to support your effort on the ascent (the arms help in addition to the legs).
- Earplugs
- A knife (to be put in checked baggage)
- An external battery (to be placed in carry-on luggage)
- A camera
- A thermos
Clothing to bring
- A pair of trekking shoes for hiking. They must have three qualities: sturdiness, good foot and ankle support (high-tops), and waterproofing (the terrain is sometimes wet). Choose shoes with non-slip soles and relatively rigid soles; they must grip the ground well.
- Pairs of hiking socks
- A waterproof mountain jacket (Gore-Tex type). The most effective jackets against wind and rain are made of Gore-Tex or Micropore, a "breathable" material that allows for the rapid evaporation of perspiration.
- Waterproof mountain trousers (Gore-Tex type)
- Hiking shorts
- Waterproof trekking over-trousers or a rain cape
- A down jacket, optional but very practical for midday picnic breaks.
- A fleece jacket. This has the advantage of being durable, warm, lightweight; it dries quickly and offers a soft feel.
- Technical base layers, top and bottom. This is your first layer of insulation, so make it worthwhile. Choose synthetic or natural fibers. Avoid cotton, which takes a very long time to dry; opt instead for several short-sleeved and long-sleeved t-shirts, and a pair of tights (breathable material). Be prepared for all situations.
- A swimsuit for hot springs
- Clothes for evenings out and for going out in town
- Nightwear
- A pair of gloves
- A beanie
- A cap
- A Buff-style neck warmer
- A lighter pair of shoes to use before or after hiking
- A pair of slippers for the accommodations
The climate in Iceland is changeable. You can experience all four seasons in the same day.
Decathlon Travel Partner
The Paulin team
4.4/5
(1435 reviews)
• 429 stays
For over 30 years, our local partner has been designing adventure walking trips around the world. Specializing in small-group treks, they cater to both casual hikers and seasoned trekkers seeking unspoiled natural environments and a return to the essentials. Their key strength? They own their own agencies in over 30 countries, guaranteeing complete trip creation from start to finish, without intermediaries. This direct, on-the-ground expertise ensures memorable active experiences and total freedom amidst breathtaking landscapes.
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