Iceland's Natural Wonders

Stargazing, Northern Lights and Highland Wilderness Adventure

Head to the south-west of Iceland and discover many of its amazing natural wonders on this 6 day winter self-drive, including parts of the iconic golden-circle route, exploring untamed nature in the rugged highlands area, stargazing in remote locations and witnessing the magical northern lights.

The journey takes you to three locations, giving you the best opportunity to explore the region and visit many of Iceland’s phenomenal natural sights, as well as visiting remote spots, away from light pollution - perfect for stargazing and viewing the aurora borealis.

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SUGGESTED ITINERARY

WHAT, WHERE & WHEN

Day 1:

Arrive at Keflavik International airport and collect your rental car, then head east on a two hour drive, passing the capital Reykjavik towards Thingvellir National Park, one of the three most popular natural attractions on the 190 mile Golden Circle route and one of the most visited sites in Iceland with an interactive exhibition, where guests can experience the park’s nature and history, as well as walking routes through the impressive landscape.

Continue the drive east to the geothermal area in the historic Haukadalur valley and the Hotel Geysir for an overnight stay on half-board basis.

Staying at: Hotel Geysir

Day 2:

The area is famous for the geothermal hot springs and geysers which the hotel is in close proximity to - visit one of the greatest natural attractions of Iceland, the great Geysir, once known to have spurted hot water up to 100 metres high. Nearby is another famous geyser, Strokkur, which spurts water 30 metres high every few minutes. A truly memorable spectacle! In addition to the geysers, there are also hot springs in the area, including the stunning turquoise coloured Belsi. Also nearby is the Geysir Centre, where you can grab some lunch in the Bistro, or pop into the shop for souvenir shopping.

Just 10 minutes drive from Hotel Geysir is the Gullfoss waterfall, another highlight on the Golden Circle route, and not to be missed. However, during winter the trails to the lower viewing platforms may be closed due to icy conditions.

The next part of the journey takes you to the new Highland Base hotel in Kerlingarfjoll, which in the winter is not accessible by normal vehicles. A special super jeep transfer departs from Basecamp Skjol, just a few minutes away from both Hotel Geysir and Gullfoss. Here you can leave your rental car and join the transfer which departs at 13.00. The journey itself is an unforgettable experience. Driven by a professional, the 4x4 mountain truck takes you into the Highlands and can take between 2-4 hours, depending on conditions. But a great chance to see this spectacular rugged landscape.

Settle in to the accommodation and look forward to the evening meal available at the cosy restaurant. Breakfast is included in your stay, but other meals can be purchased locally, including an a la carte lunch and dinner menu.

Offered to guests on clear nights, a guide will be available each evening to assist in stargazing using a high-powered telescope - gaze on an awe-inspiring canvas of northern lights, planets, stars and galaxies, an astrophotographer’s dream!

Staying at: Highland Base

Day 3:

Kerlingarfjoll is a remote mountain range deep in Iceland’s central highlands, an extreme paradise of steaming geothermal valleys, glacial rivers, perennial snow fields and panoramic vistas - a breathtaking backdrop to enjoy time in this special location.

Included in your stay is a 1 hour introduction to snowmobiling in this area. After a tutorial and safety information, you drive in pairs across sprawling snowscapes and through icy plains towards the Hofsjokull glacier on a thrilling adventure.

After spending time in the cold winter air, warm up in the hot baths, sourced from the geothermal Hveradalir hot springs, which are due to open in early 2024 and available for hotel guests to use.

Day 4:

After breakfast, time to relax and enjoy the tranquil surroundings or a last chance to take a dip in the hot baths. If you prefer to be more active, the hotel offers an activity of the day which can be booked directly.

At 13.00, take the return transfer back to Skjol Basecamp to collect your rental car. Then head south for just over an hour's drive to your last base, Hotel Ranga in Hella, staying for 2 nights on a bed and breakfast basis.

Located away from light pollution, it’s a great location for observing the night sky for stars and the aurora. The hotel offers an aurora wake-up service so guests never miss out on an appearance of the dancing lights. There is also an Observatory with high quality telescopes, and a guide on hand to share information about the distant planets.

Staying at: HOTEL RANGÁ

Day 5:

The hotel is situated near the south coast, and within easy access to amazing sights including waterfalls Skogafoss and Seljalandsfoss, Kerio crater, nature reserves and glaciers. With a rental car at hand, you can explore the area at your own pace.

Spend your last night ever hopeful of catching a glimpse of the northern lights, the perfect way to end your Iceland winter adventure.

Day 6:

After breakfast, drive back to Kelfavik airport and return the rental car in time for the return flight home.

There are many other wonderful sights and areas to explore in Iceland, please ask our Sales team for recommendations if you wish to extend your stay.

BUDGET

From £1,396 per person (excluding flights), based on two sharing at Hotel Geysir for 1 night, Highland Base for 2 nights and Hotel Ranga for 2 nights, with car hire and activities as described.

This roughly converts to: 1,605 EUR | 1,829 USD

Remember that each trip we craft is unique, and you'll receive a personalised trip proposal based on your travel dates and preferences, and in the currency of your choice (GBP, USD, or EUR).

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Additional Info

This trip has flexible daily departures

Many of trips can be tailored to your requirements and departure dates. Please get in touch with us for a tailored quotation and details of availability for your preferred travel dates. All trips and departures are subject to availability.

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IDEAL TRIP LENGTH:

5 nights

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