North Iceland
September 26-October 3, 2026
HOt springs & northern lights
This adventure is rated 2 out of 5 difficulty level. Moderate level activities (i.e. short to medium hikes up to 5 miles, some elevation, intro to new skill/activity that is guided by 3rd party like mountain biking, climbing, rafting, etc.). Activities are included, but optional if outside of your comfort zone.
Join us for an unforgettable 8-day tour to explore the best of what Northern Iceland has to offer! On this trip, we’ll visit the Diamond Circle, explore waterfalls, immerse ourselves in the rich history and charming villages here, and soak in rejuvenating hot springs. To top it off, it’s also Northern Lights season!!!
This is the perfect time to witness the Northern Lights, as 2026 marks the end of a peak of an 11-year solar cycle, promising an extraordinary display of colors in the sky. Don’t miss this rare opportunity—experience the magic of Iceland, the Northern Lights won’t reach this level of intensity again for another 21 years!
Deadline to book this trip is: June 26th, 2026. After this day, availability on the trip is subject to space on the trip and availability with our local guides, hotels and other tour partners. Please inquire at info@womenwhoexplore.com if you would like to book this adventure past the deadline to book date.
ITINERARY
-
Our trip host and local guide will meet you at Keflavik (KEF) International Airport in the morning, where you’ll join your new travel crew.
From there, we’ll hop into our van and set off for Akureyri, our base camp as we explore North Iceland. This is roughly a 6 hour drive.
We’ll stop for lunch, stretch our legs, and maybe even check out one of Iceland’s natural wonders along the way.
Once we get to Akureyri, we’ll make a quick stop at the grocery store and then check in at our cozy digs.
Later, we’ll get together for a tasty homemade dinner!
Meals included: Dinner
-
Today we explore Toll Peninsula, one of Iceland’s hidden gems. The road from Akureyri leads along a spectacular coastline, and on the way you will pass through the small charming fishing villages of Dalvik and Ólafsfjörðu ending in the picturesque village of Siglufjörður.
We’ll stop to enjoy lunch along the way and then a little free time to explore the town or check out the local pride and award winning Herring museum.
In the afternoon we will meet our guide to get geared up for a beginner friendly kayak through a beautiful fjord surrounded by mountains and wildlife.
On the way back home we will make a stop at Hauganes Hot Pot for a nice relaxing soak.
Next stop is home sweet home. Enjoy dinner at your leisure tonight, stay in and cook or head out for a taste of local Icelandic cuisine.
Meals included: Breakfast
-
After breakfast, we’ll head out on a short drive to Laufas Turf House, one of Iceland’s best-preserved turf homes.
Next we’ll also check out Laufaskirkja Church, which has been around since the 11th century before we make our way back to the heart of the city.
We will also stop by the iconic Akureyri Church, which is perched high above the city. Then we’ll take a stroll down Harnarstraeti Street lined with cute cafes, cool shops, and colorful street art.
We’ll enjoy lunch before a visit to the Arctic Botanical Garden, one of the northernmost gardens in the world.
At the end of the day, we’re heading to Akureyri’s geothermal swimming pool for a hot soak.
Tonight dinner is on your own, feel free to check out a local restaurant or prepare a meal at home.
Meals included: Breakfast
-
We’ll have an early breakfast at the apartment before heading out to explore for the day.
We’re starting with a stop at Goðafoss, one of Iceland’s most famous waterfalls.
After we take in the magic of Goðafoss, we’re heading to Dettifoss, reputed to be Europe's second most powerful waterfall.
Our final stop of the day is Lake Mývatn, a totally stunning lake surrounded by volcanic features, geothermal areas, and tons of wildlife.
We’ll enjoy lunch and a short hike before soaking in the waters at the Mývatn Baths, one of the best places to relax and take in this magical view.
Today ends with dinner at your leisure and the evening to relax back at our accommodations.
Meals included: Breakfast and packed lunch
-
Today, we’ll start by heading to Husavik, known as Iceland’s whale-watching capital. The tour is weather dependent and lasts approximately 3 hours.
After a morning on the water, you’ll have free time to explore town and enjoy lunch.
Later in the afternoon, we head to Geo Sea Baths, where you’ll relax in warm, mineral-rich waters with jaw-dropping views of the sea.
Eventually we will make our way back to Akureyri where you’ll be able to dine out or make dinner at your leisure.
Fingers crossed that we’ll dance our night away with the aurora.
Meals included: Breakfast
-
After a quick breakfast, we take a short drive where we’ll enjoy a 2 hour horseback riding tour through the Icelandic countryside.
Next we make our way back to Akureyri with free time to explore the city and grab lunch.
As the evening approaches, we’ll head over to the Forest Lagoon for our daily soak while enjoying our final sunset in Akureyri.
Dinner will be prepared for you at our Icelandic home together.
Meals included: Breakfast and dinner
-
Enjoy breakfast and say farewell to Akureyi.
Today we make the 5 hour drive back to Reykjavik. We will make a couple stops along the way to stretch our feet and have lunch.
Once we arrive in Reykjavik, we’ll check into our hotel located in the city center.
The rest of the day and evening is yours to explore the city.
Dinner is at your leisure this evening. Your trip host will be making a reservation for anyone who’d like to join in a final group dinner tonight.
Meals included: Breakfast
-
To wrap up the trip in style, we’ll head to the Sky Lagoon relaxing in the geothermal waters. We’ll have the opportunity to complete their rejuvenating 7-Step Ritual experience before making our way to the airport.
It’s about an hour drive to KEF airport where we will say our good-byes and catch a late afternoon flight back home.
Meals included: Breakfast
Akureyri Accommodations
Akrureyri is a small town situated at the base of Eyjafjörður Fjord in northern Iceland with a population of just under 20,000.
Each one comes with a private balcony offering epic mountain views, a comfy seating area, and a flat-screen TV for your binge-watching needs. Cooking up a storm? The fully equipped kitchen has you covered with an oven, microwave, toaster, fridge, stovetop, coffee machine, and kettle. Oh, and there's a private bathroom with a shower and hairdryer, plus all the linens and towels you’ll need.
Nestled in the heart of Akureyri, the vibrant and charming capital of North Iceland, this place is truly a hidden gem. The cozy ambiance of the city blends seamlessly with breathtaking landscapes that surround it. Imagine stepping outside to the crisp, cool air, with mountains towering in the distance and the shimmering fjord just a short stroll away. In this perfect location, you're surrounded by a charming mix of modern conveniences and the charm of Icelandic heritage.
Three Bedroom Loft Apartmen
A total of 5 women will accommodate this apartment together which features 1 living room, 3 separate bedrooms, and 1 bathroom with a shower. Bedroom 1 has 1 twin bed and bedrooms 2 and 3 both have 2 twin beds.
The apartment also has a full kitchen with a stovetop, refrigerator, oven, coffee maker, kitchenware and access to laundry. It also offers city views.
Three Bedroom Apartment
A total of 5 women will accommodate this apartment together which features 1 living room, 3 separate bedrooms, and 1 bathroom with a shower. Bedroom 1 has 1 twin bed and bedrooms 2 and 3 both have 2 twin beds.
The apartment also has a full kitchen with a stovetop, refrigerator, oven, coffee maker, kitchenware and access to laundry. It also offers city views.
One Bedroom Apartment
A total of 2 women will accommodate this apartment together which features 1 living room, 1 separate bedroom, and 1 bathroom with a shower. The bedroom has 2 twin beds.
The apartment also has a full kitchen with a stovetop, refrigerator, oven, coffee maker, kitchenware and access to laundry. The living room also offers a sofa bed.
Ready to Book?
Ready to Book?
QUESTIONS? PLEASE REACH OUT TO INFO@WOMENWHOEXPLORE.COM
-
$4,695 - $5,395 double and single occupancy options available in shared apartments in Akureyri.
If you are traveling solo, you will be assigned roommates upon request.
A deposit is due at booking to hold your spot with regular monthly payments. Additional payments may be applied to the trip balance prior to payment due dates.
-
• 2 days/1 nights accommodation in a double occupancy 3-star hotel in Reykjavik, Iceland
• 7 days/6 nights accommodations in the cozy, simple apartments in downtown Akureyri
• Group airport pick up at KEF the morning on arrival day and group airport drop-off at KEF in the early afternoon on last day
• Local transportation to and around Akureyri, back to Reykjavik, and to the Keflavik International airport
• Sky Lagoon Entrance + 7 -Step Ritual Experience
• Lake Myvatn’s Nature Baths entrance fee
• Geo Sea Baths entrance fee
• Hauganes Hot Pot entrance fee
• Forest Lagoon entrance fee
• Visit Akureyri’s local swimming pool
• Guided tour of Diamond Circle visiting Godafoss, Dettifoss, and Lake Myvatn
• Whale watching tour (3 hours) includes warm overalls and raincoats (as needed)
• Sea Kayaking guided tour (2.5 hours) includes drysuit, life vest and kayak and paddle
• Horseback riding tour (2 hours)
• Walking tour with guide of Akureyri and free time to explore the city’s museums, shops and cafes
• Laufas Turf Homes entrance fee
• Free time to explore Reykjavik museums, restaurants and gift shops.
• Meals included: 8 breakfasts, 1 packed lunch, 2 dinners
• Trip checklists, detailed packing list, training guide, and pre-travel support provided in a private Facebook and/or WhatsApp group
• Pre-trip Q&A Zoom call to meet your fellow travelers, trip hosts and ask any questions
• WWE Swag to make your heart happy!
• Small group; maximum of 10 women + your trip host & local Icelandic driver/guide.
-
• International Flights to/from Keflavik International Airport (KEF)
• Tips and gratuity for tour guides and driver (at the discretion of the client)
• Airport transfers outside of designated times and meeting location
• Alcohol, additional beverages, snacks and meals as noted above.
• Personal expenses not included in the itinerary such as additional accommodations, transportation, meals, souvenirs, etc.
-
All meals will be provided as noted in the itinerary. Please reach out to the trip host after booking if you have any food allergies/sensitivities. We always do our best to accommodate dietary restrictions but cannot make any guarantees.
-
This trip requires a minimum number of ladies to register in order for it to be confirmed. Once the trip reaches the minimum participant number, you will receive a trip confirmation email and a link to be added a private Facebook group just for trip guests. In this group further trip details will be provided along with pre-travel support. Please let us know if you do not have or use Facebook (see contact information below).
-
Please see our Terms of Service for our full Cancellation Policy.
All deposits are non-refundable at the time of booking, but may be transferable if done so within the timeframe outlined in the Terms of Service. Please make sure you are purchasing adequate travel insurance at the time of booking to ensure you are covered in case you need to cancel.Please note: some of our trips have a non-refundable fee that will be stated in the trip description. Please make sure to refer to the full Terms of Service to make sure you understand fully the Cancellation Policy of each trip.
-
Women Who Explore guests will be required to follow the local Covid-19 guidelines and requirements as set forth by the local governing body of the destination being visited.
-
Travel (and medical) insurance is required for anyone traveling on a Women Who Explore adventure. Your insurance should include adequate protection for overseas medical treatment, evacuation/repatriation, your baggage and equipment and the specific activities involved on your adventure. Your insurance policy should also include specific Covid-19 cover, including cancellation and curtailment cover if you or a close relative are diagnosed with Covid-19.
For recommended travel insurance providers click here.
-
Please note that the itinerary provided for your adventure is subject to change. While we strive to adhere to the proposed plan, unforeseen circumstances such as weather conditions, safety concerns, or other factors beyond our control may necessitate adjustments to the itinerary. We prioritize your safety and enjoyment throughout the adventure, and any modifications made will be done with careful consideration. We will make every effort to inform you in advance of any changes and provide suitable alternatives to ensure a fulfilling experience.
-
The Northern Lights, or Aurora Borealis, are a natural phenomenon that occurs when charged particles from the sun collide with gases in the Earth's atmosphere. While we make every effort to predict and locate the Northern Lights, they are a natural occurrence and cannot be guaranteed.
The visibility of the Northern Lights is heavily dependent on weather conditions, including cloud cover, atmospheric activity, and light pollution. Despite our best efforts, viewing opportunities may be limited due to adverse weather conditions beyond our control.