Highlights |
Escorted Package Includes
- Round trip flights NYC-Reykjavik
Other departure cities available. Click on date of departure for selection and prices
- Airline fuel surcharges
- 6 nights Tourist Class accommodations
- All transfers
- 13 meals: 7 breakfasts, 2 lunches, 4 dinners
- Sightseeing per itinerary in a modern air-conditioned motor coach
- Services of an English-speaking driver/guide throughout
- Entrance fees per itinerary
Special Features
- City tour of Reykjavik
- Solheimajökull glacier
- Visit to Skaftafell National Park
- Strokkur and the geothermal Geysir area
- Full day excursion to Snaefellsnes peninsula
- Extended visit to the Blue Lagoon
Also Available
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Itinerary |
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DAY 1, Friday - Depart the USA
Depart the USA for Iceland
DAY 2, Saturday - Arrive, Transfer to the Blue Lagoon
Arrive at Keflavik Airport, where you will be met by your driver/guide. Then, head toward the Blue Lagoon to have breakfast and an orientation meeting at the charming Northern Light Inn. After breakfast, drive into the capital for a morning city sightseeing tour of Reykjavik. The tour traverses the old town center to the Parliament, the Cathedral, the harbor, the National Museum and the Höfdi House, site of 1986 Iceland Summit where Reagan and Gorbachev met. Perlan, located on the Öskjuhlid hill, offers a spectacular view over the capital area. Visit an outdoor swimming pool heated by the geothermal waters that the country is famous for and a museum dedicated to the renowned sculptor Asmundur Sveinsson. The remainder of the day is at leisure for shopping, enjoying the many outdoor swimming pools, or indulging in some of the pampering spa facilities
Overnight: Reykjavik
Meals: Breakfast
DAY 3, Sunday - South Shore
Depart from Reykjavik to Hellisheioi, for a tour of the Hellisheioi Geothermal powerplant, where geothermal energy has been extensively harnessed for the region's vibrant greenhouse industry. Journey through the rich farmlands and onward to majestic mountains, where the impressive volcano Hekla can be seen on a clear day. Travel to Seljalandsfoss and Skogafoss, two of the numerous awe-inspiring waterfalls set along the coast, and visit the Skogar Folk Museum to see how Icelanders creatively adapted to their challenging environment. On to the Solheimajökull glacier, see and feel the impact that global warming has had on Icelandic glaciers. Continue to Dyrholaey Nature Reserve for a stroll to a magnificent cliff projecting out into the ocean. Finally, arrive at Kirkjubaejarklaustur, formerly the site of a 12th-century Catholic convent, where we will have dinner and make our overnight stay. Optional Myrdalsjökull Glacier Snowmobile Tour is available locally
Overnight: Kirkjubaerjarklaustur
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
DAY 4, Monday - Skaftafell National Park, Jökulsarlon Glacial Lagoon
Drive from Kirkjubaejarklaustur over the Skeidararsandur outwash plains to Skaftafell National Park, one of Iceland's most amazing examples of sheer natural splendor, dominated by Vatnajökull, Europe's largest ice cap. Enjoy a short hike to see the stunning contrast between the lush vegetation and barren slopes, culminating with exciting views of the peaks in Skaftafell. Continue to the Jökulsarlon glacial lagoon with its immense floating icebergs. Here, take a boat excursion that brings you face to face with these breathtaking natural wonders. Then head back westward to overnight near the small town of Vik
Overnight: Vik
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
DAY 5, Tuesday - Gullfoss, Geysir, Thingvellir, Borgarfjördur
Today, depart for the renowned Geysir geothermal area to see the famous great Geysir and the hot spring Strokkur, which spouts every few minutes. Then it's on to Gullfoss, one of Iceland's most impressive waterfalls. The mighty Hvita River appears to simply vanish into the earth, but a closer approach reveals gorgeous staggered falls plunging into a crevice over 100 feet deep. The next stop is Thingvellir National Park, a place of tremendous interest as a primary site of Iceland's geological and historical inheritance. Drive from Thingvellir across the Kaldidalur highland trail to the woods of Husafell. Finally, continue to Hraunfossar Falls and the historic Reykholt, home of medieval chieftain, scholar and poet Snorri Sturluson. Stop at Deildartunguhver, Europe's most powerful hot spring before continuing to your hotel
Please note: In April and May the tour travels over Kjosaskard Pass and along Hvalfjördur to the Borgarfjördur area
Overnight: Reykholt
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
DAY 6, Wednesday - Borgarfjördur Valley, Settlement Center, Snaefellsnes
This morning visit the Settlement Center in Borgarnes. The Settlement Center offers an opportunity to learn about the mystical Viking era, how they sailed across the Atlantic ocean in the year 800 AD, and how they discovered Iceland. The visit provides perspective on the people and the culture of Iceland in a concise and interesting way. Next, enjoy a full day excursion to Snaefellsnes peninsula, a Green Globe benchmarked region, making it a model for sustainable tourism. Drive through the Myrar district amidst moors and lava fields and past the extinct volcanic crater of Eldborg. On a clear day we will enjoy a view of the serene Snaefellsjökull Glacier. Snaefellsnes is a unique area with a variety of fascinating geological features such as lava fields, volcanoes, glaciers, mineral springs, beautifully formed rocks, yellow and black sand beaches as well as caves and captivating bird colonies. The best known attraction is unquestionably Snaefellsjökull Glacier, a beautifully shaped stratovolcano at the very end of the peninsula. The glacier and the unspoiled natural wonders surrounding it is the scene of Jules Verne's classic novel Journey to the Center of the Earth and is rumored to be one of seven most magical sites on Earth. Enjoy dinner this evening at the hotel and celebrate a farewell to this stark yet sublime land. Optional Snorrastadir Farm Horse Riding Tour is available locally
Overnight: Hellissandur
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
DAY 7, Thursday - Snaefellsnes, Stykkisholmur, Reykjavik
The day begins with a drive to Bjarnarhöfn Farm, where Mr. Hildibrandur, a shark farmer, serves shark meat and schnapps Brennivin, the traditional Icelandic combination otherwise known as "Blackdeath." Mr. Hildibrandur is an original character who has the remarkable ability to tell stories in the Icelandic tongue, yet have them understood by whomever listens, whatever language they speak. This afternoon, upon reaching the village of Stykkisholmur, there will be the option to go on a fantastic boat trip on Breidafjördur Fjord, famous for its countless islands and abundant bird life. You might enjoy simply walking around the village, immersing yourself in the local beauty. Finally, drive back to Reykjavik in the afternoon with the evening free at leisure to catch up on last minute shopping or to explore the city independently. Optional Breidafjördur Fjord Boat Tour is available locally
Overnight: Reykjavik
Meals: Breakfast
DAY 8, Friday - Depart for the USA
Return to the Blue Lagoon for ample time to take a relaxing bath to refresh the body and mind before transferring to Keflavik Airport for your departure flight
Meals: Breakfast
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Optionals |
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Book your Optional Tours before you travel and see more, save time, save money, and protect your investment. Tours purchased while traveling may cost an extra 10% or even more! Tours often sell out - avoid disappointment! Save your cash - many countries do not accept credit cards. Travel insurance only covers services purchased prior to departure.
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Book your Optional Tours before you travel and see more, save time, save money, and protect your investment. Tours purchased while traveling may cost an extra 10% or even more! Tours often sell out - avoid disappointment! Save your cash - many countries do not accept credit cards. Travel insurance only covers services purchased prior to departure.
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Rates & Hotels |
Step 1: Select Your Featured Hotels Step 2: Click a Date to Book Online
OR: Click here to create your own flexible vacation
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*Not Included:
Airport taxes & fees, optional tours, and gratuities.
Additional Information:
Kindly plan to arrive at Reykjavik's Keflavik Airport no later than 7:00 AM on arrival day to allow for adequate time to transfer to your hotel and begin your sightseeing tour.
Kindly plan to depart from Reykjavik's Keflavik Airport no earlier than 4:00 PM on departure day to allow for adequate time to transfer from your sightseeing tour to the airport.
Jun 18 departure will be accommodated at the Hotel Borgarnes in Borgarnes (instead of overnight in Reykholt) and the Hotel Olafsvik in Olafsvik (instead of overnight in Hellissandur).
Aug 13 departure will be accommodated at the Hotel Borgarnes in Borgarnes (instead of overnight in Reykholt).
Entry Requirements:
US citizens require a passport valid for six months beyond travel dates.
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| Although most of the planning and preparation is taken care of for you, there are still a few things you should know and some details you should take care of to ensure your comfort, safety and peace of mind. Please review the following information before your departure to ensure that any surprises along the way will only be pleasant ones. | |
| Passports and Visas | It is each traveler's responsibility to have a passport valid for at least 6 months from the date of departure and a visa if required. Please check the information at www.gate1travel.com/visas.aspx for the specific country/region you are visiting for more details. Passengers who are not U.S. citizens must check with the respective consulate or a visa agency to determine what personal identification is required. Passport applications are available at most U.S. Post Offices, as well as at regional Passport Agencies.
| | Trip Preparation | A little pre-planning can make your trip go a lot smoother. Several weeks before your trip, make a list of what you will need to take with you. Make sure your personal documents (passports, visas) are in order and that you have enough prescription medications to last through the trip. We suggest that you make photocopies of passports, visas, and any other important travel documents and pack them separately from the originals. Pack a list of medications including dosage and generic names. If you lose the originals while traveling, you'll have copies for easier reporting and replacement. We recommend that you pack a portable alarm clock.
| | Health Information | Check with your personal physician for the latest overseas travel health information, or contact the Center for Disease Control’s travelers’ hotline at 404-332-4559, web site www.cdc.gov.
| | Climate & Clothing |
| E-Tickets & Check-In Procedures |
Please review the flight itinerary included in these documents. Print and carry a copy of the air itinerary which contains the record locator (airline reservation number) and e-ticket number(s). At check-in, be prepared to provide your government issued identification (valid passport) and your e-ticket itinerary/ ticket numbers to the agent in order to receive your boarding pass.
An e-ticket (electronic ticket) represents the purchase of an airline seat. This form of ticket has replaced almost all formerly provided paper tickets. The e-ticket exists only as a digital record in the airlines computers. In most cases your reservation will be confirmed solely on the basis of your government-issued identification. However it may still be necessary to present the e-ticket itinerary which contains your specific reservation code and ticket number(s). Once confirmed, your luggage will be checked-in and a boarding pass provided.
Advance online check-in is available on some airlines. If available, you may enter your airline confirmation number at the airline's website, and print the boarding pass on your home printer within twenty-four hours of departure. Airlines without advance online check-in require you to present your identification and e-ticket numbers at the airport self-service kiosk or check-in counter.
When e-tickets cannot be issued, you will receive paper tickets.
If your tour program includes foreign domestic flights, and those tickets are not included together with the e-ticket itinerary in these documents, a separate voucher(s) confirming those services will be included. You will receive those tickets at your destination from a Gate 1 representative.
| | Airline Flights | Please check in at least three hours prior to the scheduled departure time to allow for security steps. Passengers connecting from another point within the USA may check their luggage through to their final destination, and although problems with lost luggage have been minimal, it is a possibility. Certain carriers do not allow baggage “interlining,” and luggage must be checked separately for each flight. If you are connecting from a domestic flight which is delayed for any reason, causing you to miss your international flight, you must ask the airline for assistance in getting you to your destination. Since all airline tickets are issued on special fares which carry restrictions and penalties if changed, you must have the airlines responsible make alternate arrangements on your behalf as Gate 1 has no authority or control over airline activities and policies. Do not leave the airline check-in desk until an alternative itinerary has been confirmed for you.
Flight schedule changes are common and may occur anytime until departure. Therefore it is the responsibility of each passenger to reconfirm their flights 72 hours prior to departure for all flights.
| | Airline Luggage Restrictions | Most international airlines are consistent with regard to the number and weight of the pieces you may check and bring onboard. Domestic carriers however, typically on small aircraft, differ. Therefore, we suggest that you check in advance if you are concerned about size or weight restrictions. Many airlines have begun to apply charges for checked bags. Please contact your airline or refer to its website for detailed information regarding your airline's checked baggage policies. Airline policies vary and may change at any time. Gate 1 Travel is not responsible for any excess luggage/ weight charges levied by an airline.
| | Airline Seats | Airline seats are confirmed whenever possible. Some airlines and/or fare types do not allow for pre-seating and require this be done at airport check-in only. Even when seats are pre-assigned however, we recommend that you contact the carrier one to two weeks prior to departure to reconfirm your seats. In many cases there are equipment changes after your initial booking which can cause airplane seating reconfiguration.
| | Airline Tickets | Most airline tickets are issued using special fares which cannot be changed or canceled without incurring additional cost. Should you lose or misplace your tickets while traveling, you should immediately notify the airline. In most cases they will have you complete a Lost Ticket Indemnity Form, and for a fee, issue replacement tickets.
| | Code-share Flights | Many airlines participate in alliances and special agreements with other airlines which permit passengers to travel from one point to another using more than one carrier. While your ticket may indicate that you are flying with one carrier (eg: Delta), you may find that you are actually seated in a plane belonging to another carrier (eg: Alitalia). Please review your airline itinerary carefully to determine which airline you should go to for check-in; if your flight is operated by a carrier other than the primary airline indicated on the itinerary, your itinerary will state "Flight Operated by (Airline)." If you have any concerns regarding which airline to check-in with, you may contact the airline directly or Gate 1 Travel for clarification.
| | Luggage | All Gate 1 tour packages allow one piece of luggage per person, plus carry-on bag. Additional baggage will be subject to airline handling charges of up to $100 per piece. As Gate 1 will not be responsible for loss or damage to luggage and personal belongings, you MUST report any loss or damage immediately at the time of the incident and obtain a written report from the local authority for submission to your insurance provider. If your luggage is lost or damaged by the airlines, a baggage claim form MUST be filed with the carrier before leaving the airport. See www.gate1travel.com/luggage.aspx for Important Baggage Information for U.S. Travelers.
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| Arrival Procedures | Upon arrival, please complete immigration formalities and claim your luggage. If your program includes airport arrival transfers, check your voucher for specific instructions, as they vary with every destination. In most cases, you will be met after passing through Customs by the local representative who will be holding a Gate 1 Travel sign and/or a sign with your name on it. In some instances you will be instructed to walk a short distance to a transportation counter. The company's name and location will be printed on your voucher. If for any reason you do not connect with the Gate 1 transfer personnel, go to the Tourist Information Desk and ask them to page the Gate 1 Travel representative or phone the number on your voucher.
| | What To Do When Your Flight Is Delayed | Airlines do not share flight manifest information. Therefore, the only way we may learn of a delay or schedule change while you are traveling is from you, the traveler. The sooner you are able to contact one of our offices, overseas or in the USA, the better we can respond. Gate 1 Travel is only able to guarantee pre-reserved arrival transfers for up to one hour from the scheduled time, no matter the cause. In case you are delayed for any reason, and are unable to follow the instructions on your voucher, please make independent transfer arrangements and retain your receipts. Unused tour services, including transfers and hotel nights are not refundable. Upon your return home you will need to contact your airline and/or insurance carrier to investigate the possibility of reimbursement for any unused tour services.
| | Departure Procedures | If your program includes departure transfers, instructions will be stated on your voucher or provided locally.
| | Transfers | Due to local traffic and other extenuating circumstances, we ask that you allow 30 minutes from your scheduled transfer time for our representative to arrive. This includes hotel, airport and cruise transfers. Such possible delays are taken into consideration in scheduling transfers and you should therefore have no concerns about arriving late for your tour, flight or cruise. For transfers from a hotel, let the hotel reception desk or concierge know that you are waiting for a transfer. In the case of a missed transfer, reimbursement for your out-of-pocket expenses will be considered provided you obtain a written statement from the hotel's front desk verifying the length of time you waited, and the time you left the hotel, and a receipt for your transportation with time and date.
Escorted tour programs include transfers, providing you have purchased airfare from Gate 1 to arrive and depart on the scheduled tour dates. If you are traveling independently, you may purchase the transfers from Gate 1 or contract your own method of transportation to the hotel or cruise ship. The cost of a transfer will generally be more expensive than hiring a taxi as the pre-arranged transfer necessarily includes round trip service, or a 'dead-leg'. Additionally the driver may have to wait at the collection point for up to an hour.
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| Hotels | Gate 1 Travel has carefully selected each hotel based on overall quality, location, price, food, service, and cleanliness. All rooms are standard rooms with two single beds and private facilities, unless you have specifically requested and paid for an upgrade. Room selection is strictly at the discretion of the hotel management. We reserve the right to make hotel substitutions with those of equal standard.
| | Hotel Check-in/ Check-out | Check-in time is usually 4pm or later. Check-out time is 12 noon. If you will be arriving early in the day or departing in the evening, hotels will usually allow you to store your luggage in their luggage room. Ask at the front desk if the hotel can check you in earlier, or let you stay later.
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| Eco & Sustainable Tourism | We support global efforts to create a more eco-friendly world, intolerant of any forms of cruelty, abuse and intentional environmental destruction. To that end we ask that our clients maintain a watchful eye as they travel, and report any abuses they may encounter. One of the many benefits of tourism is the shared cultural knowledge and ultimate elimination of negative behavior through education. We rely on your good feedback to enable this element of symbiosis. As you travel to and learn about foreign cultures, we ask first and foremost that you practice tolerance and respect for local customs.
| | Land Only Passengers (Escorted Tours) | Your tour manager will contact you after your arrival at your hotel. Passengers who have not purchased arrival transfers from Gate 1 Travel should proceed directly to the hotel for checkin. The details of the hotel can be found in your documents.
| | Shopping | Shopping in a foreign country can be a wonderful experience. We do include a few stops at recommended popular shops on every escorted tour, intended to enhance your cultural experience. As you explore the country independently, you may find fantastic, one-of-a-kind merchandise. You may get terrific bargains. However, we advise you to exercise care and common sense when making any purchase. Always get a formal receipt. And remember that, just like in this country, if a deal seems too good to be true, it probably is!
| Iceland - Among the most popular items from Iceland are handwoven woolen goods, high quality wood carvings, eiderdown duvets and pillows, and fine jewelry.
| | Currency | We suggest getting a small amount of currency for the first country you're visiting before you leave the U.S. It is a good idea to carry a chart with you to help you convert U.S. dollars to the local currency. It's also a good idea not to carry too much money. Many countries have ATM machines that accept most U.S. ATM cards, but be sure you know your ATM password in numbers-the keypads on foreign ATMs don't always have letters. ATM machines will only dispense cash in local currency. Check with respective consulates to learn current currency allowances and requirements. Use your credit card whenever possible. Should you decide to carry cash or travelers checks, exchange them at banks where the rate is more favorable than at hotels or exchange bureaus. Please note that many banks and most vendors will not accept or exchange $100 bills. We suggest to carry $20 bills or smaller.
| Iceland - The Icelandic Krona is the currency of Iceland.
| | Purchasing Tours Locally | On escorted tours, the guides will generally sell optional tours to passengers who have not pre-purchased them. Payment can be made by cash or credit card, unless otherwise noted below. This does not apply to Independent packages. Please see Gate 1 Terms & Conditions for more information. http://www.gate1travel.com/terms.aspx#optional
| Iceland - Several optional tours are only available locally. Further information on itinerary and price will be provided by your tour manager for the Optional Myrdalsjökull Glacier Snowmobile Tour, the Optional Snorrastadir Farm Horse Riding Tour, and the Optional Breidafjördur Fjord Boat Tour.
| | Credit Cards | While credit cards are accepted in most destinations, it is advisable to carry local currency. Inform your credit card company that you are traveling to avoid your card being blocked for security reasons.
| | Gratuities | This is a matter of personal discretion. You may use the following as a guideline:
- Tour escort (Coordinator; may or may not act as a guide):
$6 or $7 per person per day
- Driver (Provides chauffeur services and limited assistance with luggage):
$3 per person per day
- Local Guide (Offers in-depth information at specific locations. There may be one or many guides along a tour program):
$2 per person per half day of sightseeing (2-3 hours)
- River Cruises:
$6 or $7 per person per day as indicated by each cruise line (see details regarding European River Cruises)
- Hotel Porter:
$1 per bag per person
- Wait staff:
$1.50 per person (lunch or dinner)
Tipping is considered by many locals to be a part of their normal remuneration and some may approach you for additional "compensation." There is no need to be intimidated by the request, nor should you feel pressured to pay more than recommended. If you become uncomfortable by any behavior you encounter, please advise your tour escort or phone our local office. Numbers have been provided in your documents for your convenience.
| Iceland - Gratuities are appreciated and expected for good service in restaurants and other places that cater to tourists.
| | Your Safety is Very Important | Every effort has been taken by Gate 1 Travel to ensure your safety. However, it is important that you do not allow your common sense to take a vacation while you're on your trip. Be aware of potentially dangerous places and situations as you would at home. Avoid wearing expensive jewelry and carry your valuables concealed in inside pockets or hidden pouches. Don't put all your valuables (money, credit cards, passports, etc.) in the same place. (In case that one wallet is stolen, you should have other valuables and identification in another safe place.) Don't leave valuables laying loose in your room-use the hotel safe. Keep copies of your passports, credit card numbers and travelers checks numbers in the hotel safe. If you've purchased an escorted tour program, your travel documents will include telephone numbers of local Gate 1 Travel representatives who will do their utmost to assist you in the event of an emergency. The numbers are printed on your Gate 1 Travel vouchers. Please copy the numbers. Once you relinquish the voucher, you will not have this information. Passengers traveling independently should employ the services of hotel concierges and local authorities.
| | Local Emergency Phone Numbers | Iceland
| | Languages | Iceland - Icelandic is the local language. English is widely spoken.
| | Electricity | Please note: The U.S. uses 120 volts and you can purchase a converter and transformer at most hardware stores for your 120V appliances.
| Iceland - The voltage used is 220 volts.
| | Code of Conduct | Iceland - Shaking hands is the standard greeting. Normal social courtesies should be observed. Smoking is prohibited in public buildings, buses, and other public transportation.
| | Holidays - Iceland |
| Holidays 2010 |
| Jan 1 |
New Year's Day |
| Apr 1 |
Maundy Thursday |
| Apr 2 |
Good Friday |
| Apr 4 |
Easter |
| Apr 5 |
Easter Monday |
| Apr 22 |
First Day of Summer |
| May 1 |
May Day |
| May 13 |
Ascension Day |
May 24 |
Whit Monday |
Jun 17 |
Independence Day |
Aug 2 |
Commerce Day |
Dec 24 |
Christmas Eve |
Dec 25 |
Christmas Day |
Dec 26 |
2nd Day of Christmas |
Dec 31 |
New Year's Eve |
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| Food and Meals | As specified in each itinerary. Meals are based on the hotel's or restaurant's buffet or set menu. In general, beverages are not included, unless specifically stated. Although Gate 1 cannot make guarantees, every effort will be made to honor special dietary requests submitted in writing at least 72 hours prior to departure to info@gate1travel.com.
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