Iceland Otherwise: Raw Nature and Infinite Horizons
Whales, Puffins & Reindeer 14 days classique

Iceland Otherwise: Raw Nature and Infinite Horizons

A complete journey through giant glaciers, wild fjords and volcanic phenomena at the edge of Europe.

From€2,800per person
16 years of local expertise

Duration

14 days

From

€2,800/pers.

Ideal seasons

Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep

Style

Guided tour

Comfort

classique

Travelers

Couple, Solo, With friends

The spirit of travel

This itinerary, available year-round, offers a complete exploration of Iceland, excluding the northwest and Snaefellsnes. Take advantage of the incredible diversity of Icelandic regions by visiting some of the most beautiful natural sites as well as lesser-known gems, while avoiding driving too many kilometers each day. You will have the opportunity to spend several nights in the same location, promoting star-shaped discovery away from the beaten path. We will also provide valuable advice for adapted hikes, whether short walks or longer treks, to optimize your experience.

The itinerary is customizable, allowing you to add passages in the highlands such as Landmannalaugar or Kjolur with Kerlingarfjoll.

Moreover, it is adaptable depending on the length of your stay, with options to avoid the capital or heavily visited sites such as the Golden Circle.

This trip is perfect for families, honeymoons, hiking-passionate friends or for a first in-depth discovery of Islande.

We also have the possibility of welcoming you for several nights in our Helgafell accommodation, located in Akureyri fjord (subject to availability), for a more personalized stay that allows star-shaped discovery while offering you a moment of relaxation.

The itinerary proposed for this stay in Islande is indicative and will be adjusted according to the length of your trip, your flight schedules and the activities you will have chosen.

The stages of your journey

D1
HellaNuit guesthouse ou hôtel, en chambre double.
D2
Parc national de ThingvellirNuit guesthouse ou hôtel, en chambre double.
D3
KirkjubæjarklausturNuite en hôtel
D4
JökulsárlónNuite en hôtel
D5–6
SeyðisfjörðurNuite en hôtel
D7–11
EyjafjörðurNuite en hôtel
D12–13
BorgarnesNuite en hôtel
D14
Aéroport international de Keflavík

Highlights

Glaciers and glacial lagoons
Wild Fjords of the East
Volcanic Sites of Mývatn
Whale watching
Authentic local accommodations
Star-shaped discovery

Day-by-day itinerary

Jour 1
D1

Welcome to Iceland!

Upon arrival at Keflavík International Airport, collect your rental vehicle and take to the road to begin your trip to Islande.

From the first few kilometers, cross vast lava fields that immediately set the tone for your stay and immerse you in the island's unique landscapes.

For this first night, head to the south coast and the Hella region. If you arrive late, you can also spend the night by the sea, near the airport, before continuing your discovery of Islande.

Nuit guesthouse ou hôtel, en chambre double.
Jour 2
D2

The Golden Circle: Iceland's Must-See Attractions

Departure for Thingvellir National Park after breakfast at the hotel.

The Golden Circle is home to some of Iceland's most iconic sites. Begin your adventure with a hike in Þingvellir National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site, renowned for its unique rift where the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates meet. We offer you tips to explore this site while avoiding crowds.

Next, don't miss the famous Strokkur geyser, which shoots impressive jets of hot water and steam, as well as the magnificent Gullfoss waterfall, considered one of the most beautiful in the country.
Next, don't miss the famous Strokkur geyser, which shoots impressive jets of hot water and steam.

Geysir → Gullfoss

10min10 km

Continue your discovery with the magnificent Gullfoss waterfall, considered one of the most beautiful in the country.

Gullfoss → Hella

1h1080 km

Return and night at the same place as the previous day.

Nuit guesthouse ou hôtel, en chambre double.Breakfast
Jour 3
D3

Wonders of the South Coast: Waterfalls, Black Sand Beaches

Hella → Seljalandsfoss

40min55 km

You explore the magnificent south coast of Iceland, where you can admire the Seljalandsfoss waterfall, behind which it is possible to walk.

You will also discover the majestic Skogafoss waterfall, which rises to 60 meters in height.

As you travel along the canyons, you will get closer to the Vatnajokull glacier, the second largest glacier in Europe.

You will spend the night in the Kirkjubaejarklaustur area, which offers other treasures to explore, a little more isolated.

Nuite en hôtel Breakfast
Jour 4
D4

Skaftafell National Park

You are now close to Iceland's largest glacier.

Set off on a morning hike in the heart of Skaftafell National Park. Don't miss the magnificent Svartifoss waterfall, surrounded by basalt columns, as well as the viewpoint overlooking the Skeidararjokull glacier tongue.

In the afternoon, admire the Jokulsarlon glacial lagoon, famous for its icebergs plunging into the ocean, and enjoy a walk along the renowned Diamond Beach.

Optional: a glacier hike with a guide during summer or discovery of an ice cave during winter. And a night between Jokulsarlon and Hofn, at the foot of the glacier.

Nuite en hôtel Breakfast
Jour 5
D5

Panoramic route through the East fjords

Höfn → Djúpivogur

1h1085 km

After exploring Hofn, a charming fishing port located at the foot of the glacier, you continue your adventure along the eastern fjords. The town of Djupivogur presents itself as a captivating cultural stop.

You then continue your discovery of fishing villages hidden in these breathtaking landscapes. The village of Faskrudsfjordur pays tribute to the difficult life of Breton fishermen who came to fish off the coasts of Iceland.

Your day ends in the magnificent Seydisfjordur region, by the sea, offering breathtaking panoramas.

You will spend the night there.

Nuite en hôtel Breakfast
Jour 6
D6

Kingdom of Elves

Discover the eastern region, where the village of Seydisfjordur will seduce you with its authentic charm. Don't miss the majestic Hengifoss waterfall, surrounded by its impressive basalt columns.

The Hallormsstadaskogur forest will amaze you with its density.

Take time to explore the puffin colony at Borgarfjordur Eystri, a true elf kingdom.

The fjords of the east, still little visited and little known due to their distance from the capital, are truly worth the detour. They offer numerous activities such as hot springs, hiking and encounters with local wildlife, including arctic foxes, reindeer, seals and a variety of birds.

Return to your accommodation in Seydisfjordur for a second night.

Nuite en hôtel Breakfast
Jour 7
D7

Diamond Circle

You venture into a fascinating lunar landscape that leads you northward. Along the way, be sure not to miss the superb Studlagil gorges.

The Modrudalur farm, the most isolated in Iceland, makes for a pleasant break in the heart of an oasis surrounded by mountains and deserts.

Discovering the Jokulsa gorges will allow you to admire the most powerful waterfall in Europe: Dettifoss. For hiking enthusiasts, you will have the opportunity to complete a beautiful loop and visit two other waterfalls along the Jokulsargljufur canyon.

Dettifoss → Eyjafjörður

2h30175 km

End your day with a peaceful night in the Eyjafjordur fjord.

Nuite en hôtel Breakfast
Jour 8
D8

Volcanic Sites of Mývatn

Today, you set off to discover the Mývatn region and its fascinating volcanic landscapes shaped by the Krafla volcano and the rift. Begin by exploring the impressive lava castles of Dimmuborgir, whose rock formations evoke a setting straight out of another world.

Continue your day with the ascent of Hverfjall crater. This hike offers exceptional panoramic views of Lake Mývatn, lava fields and volcanic landscapes that characterize this region.

Then join us at the geothermal site of Namaskard, where fumaroles, bubbling mud pools and sulfur deposits make up a landscape of striking colors. We will also guide you towards the most beautiful hikes in the region, suitable for all levels, whether for an hour or a full day.

Námaskarð → Mývatn

5min5 km

To end this day, treat yourself to a moment of relaxation in the hot waters of Mývatn baths, facing the volcanic landscapes that make northern Iceland famous.

Mývatn → Eyjafjörður

1h2095 km

Return to your accommodation for a second night in Eyjafjordur fjord.

Nuite en hôtel Breakfast
Jour 9
D9

Krafla, Leirhnjúkur and Goðafoss

Eyjafjörður → Krafla

50min60 km

This second day offers you the opportunity to explore Krafla and its famous Leirhnjukur lava field, still active. Nearby, the Viti crater provides other perspectives on the immense caldera, whose last eruption dates back to 1984.

Krafla → Goðafoss

40min50 km

In the afternoon, you head towards the majestic Godafoss waterfall, one of Iceland's most iconic waterfalls.

You then reach the Eyjafjordur fjord, where Akureyri is located, before continuing to your seaside accommodation.

Subject to availability, you will have the option to spend this night as well as the following two at Helgafell Retreat Center, managed by our agency. This choice allows you to further personalize your stay and encourage meetings. The location is ideal for admiring the midnight sun, the northern lights, as well as for observing birds and whales. Many travelers choose to stay several nights there to discover northern Islande in a star pattern.

Enjoy an unforgettable stay with friends or family in a preserved setting, near Akureyri, the capital of the North.

Nuite en hôtel Breakfast
Jour 10
D10

Whale watching - Eyjafjörður fjord

Your day is filled with a whale-watching excursion in the fjord.

Afterwards, make the most of your free time to explore Akureyri. You'll have the opportunity to hike through stunning landscapes, relax in a hot bath at the Forest Lagoon, or discover lesser-known places.

Relax in a Viking ship on a black sand beach, or enjoy a sauna by the sea…

Nuite en hôtel Breakfast
Jour 11
D11

Free day in the fjord

This second day in the fjord offers a multitude of activities. You can explore the island of Hrísey, a true jewel of the North, located in the heart of the fjord. Enjoy horseback riding, relax in hot springs, or go hiking in the surrounding mountains, where you will find Iceland's largest mountain range. In winter, we also offer guided snowshoe walks.

For those who wish to appreciate the intensity of encounters in Islande, the Helgafell site is ideal for recharging. You also have the opportunity to get a massage or participate in a yoga class. Taking time to enjoy your stay will allow you to get closer to the locals, thus offering an authentic experience of local life, far from the idea of simply "passing through" the country.

Nuite en hôtel Breakfast
Jour 12
D12

The Arctic Road

Continue your adventure on the "Arctic Road", along the north coast of Islande. Visit the traditional Glaumbaer farm, famous for its turf houses, a symbol of authentic and wild Islande.

Continue your journey towards the Vatnsnes peninsula, where the famous Hvitserkur rock stands. You will also be able to observe the seal colony that frequents this part of the coast. Throughout the route, let yourself be seduced by the colorful lighthouses, isolated farms and unique landscapes that dot the coastline of northern Islande.

Hvitserkur → Borgarnes

2h15150 km

End your day in the west, in the Borgarnes region, the cradle of Iceland's colonization.

Nuite en hôtel Breakfast
Jour 13
D13

Hvalfjörður & Borgarfjörður

During this day of regional discovery, you explore the Hvalfjordur, known as the "whale fjord". This region offers magnificent landscapes as well as several hiking opportunities.

You then continue your discovery in the heart of Borgarfjordur to Deildartunguhver, Europe's most productive hot spring.

Take the opportunity to visit the historic farm of Reykholt, a major site of medieval Icelandic history.

Reykholt → Hraunfossar

10min7 km

You will then have the opportunity to admire the magnificent Hraunfossar waterfalls. The region also offers many hiking trails and hot springs for a relaxing and revitalizing experience.

Hraunfossar → Borgarnes

20min20 km

Finally, you will return to your accommodation from the previous evening for a well-deserved night's rest.

Nuite en hôtel Breakfast
Jour 14
D14

Discovery of Reykjavik: Free Day Between Culture and Nature

Borgarnes → Reykjavik

1h75 km

Upon arrival in Reykjavik, enjoy a free day to explore the city. Wander through the colorful streets and charming little harbor. Be sure to visit the Harpa cultural center, an architectural marvel of glass and steel, as well as the impressive Hallgrimskirkja church. Reykjavik, dynamic and vibrant, is full of small boutiques and trendy restaurants, immersing you in the heart of Icelandic civilization.

For the night, choose accommodation in the heart of the capital or near the airport, by the seaside, depending on your flight schedule the next day.

Breakfast

Price per person

1 pers.€2,800/pers.

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
  • Meals other than breakfasts, petrol

Included

  • 14 Nights in guesthouse or hotel accommodation with mix of private and shared bathrooms
  • Breakfast in the form of all-you-can-eat buffet
  • Rental car with unlimited mileage, taxes and SCDW insurance included
  • 1 entrance per person to the Mývatn natural baths
  • 1 whale watching excursion at sea per person to observe humpback whales
  • Optional: glacier walk, ice cave visit
  • Personalized Travel Journal
  • Our English-speaking contact and on-site assistance

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.

Chapka — Cap Explorer

Our insurance partner

Travel 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 insurance

Frequently 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.

Jean-Marc Plessy, Contemplative Explorer of Icelandic Lands
16years of expertise

Let's talk about your adventure — Southern Gold Circle

Contemplative Explorer of Icelandic Lands, based in 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

APST Guarantee Secure Payment 24/7 Assistance