Indianapolis Zoo Northern Iceland Adventure

Date:
Oct 3 - Oct 11, 2025
Duration:
9 Days
Price:
From $6,795
Interests:
Join Waitlist This departure is SOLD OUT Print Itinerary

About this trip

Sitting atop the boundary between continental plates, the island of Iceland is alive with dramatic geologic forces. Witness these dynamic elements at work before you: thundering waterfalls, steaming vents and bubbling springs, bursting geysers, sunken craters, and twisting rock formations. As you traverse this enthralling terrain and rugged coastline, discover how the island’s inhabitants have harnessed the power of the land to thrive, from its early Norse explorers to its 20th century fishing industry, and the geothermal energy of a sustainable future. Capping the experience each evening is a chance to see the ultimate Icelandic epic: the dancing northern lights!

Highlights

  • Visit a working geothermal power plant to witness Iceland’s sustainable energy production in action.
  • Explore the charming coastal towns of Húsavík and Siglufjörður, and learn about Iceland’s deep-rooted cultural connections to the sea.
  • Learn about Icelandic Sagas and Viking history with a visit to the Snorastofa Museum in Reykholt, the manor farm of the eminent 13th century scholar, chieftain and writer of Sagas, Snorri Sturluson.
  • Enjoy a walking tour in Hrísey, a tiny island in Eyjafjörður fjord, known for its abundant birdlife.
  • Keep an eye out for whales on a three-hour whale-watching tour with trained marine biologist guides.

 

Land Cost

$6,795

Per person

About this price

Land cost only. Does not include round-trip airfare to and from destination.

Single room supplement $850

What makes us different

Rich content

All of our programs include experiences that are enriching and engaging to facilitate a genuine connection between our travelers and their destinations

Wildlife up-close

Enjoy up-close observation of the behaviors and interactions of wildlife in their native habitats

Culture in context

Incorporate history, social institutions, economy, government, and traditions of the destination to put culture in context

Cultural Discovery

Put culture in context as you discover the history and traditions of your destination

Expert guides

We take pride in hiring local guides who are carefully selected for their knowledge, sensitivity and skill in the field

Service anytime

Enjoy worry-free travel — our emergency line is monitored 24/7/365 so we can assist you if any problems arise while you’re traveling with us

Daily Itinerary

Print Itinerary
Depart U.S.
Depart the U.S. today.
Reykjavik
Upon arrival, after clearing customs and immigration, meet your driver and travel to Reykjavík. Enjoy the afternoon to explore the city on your own before returning to the hotel for a welcome orientation starting at 6:00 pm followed by dinner. Please note: Individual arrival transfers are included in the program cost. Check-in is at 2 pm. Luggage can be stored at the hotel while exploring the city until time to check-in. Early check-in is also available at an additional cost.
Dinner included
Skuggi Hotel
Laugarbakki
After breakfast at the hotel, depart for Þingvellir National Park to explore the grounds of Alþingi, the ancient parliament site on the shores of Iceland's largest lake. Þingvellir also showcases the dramatic continental drift between the American and Eurasian tectonic plates. After spending some time exploring the beautiful park, head to one of Iceland's best-kept secrets: Borgarfjörður. This is an enchanting area of mini forests, volcanic landscapes, glaciers and Viking history. Visit two spectacular glacial waterfalls: Hraunfossar and Barnafoss. You'll get a good introduction to Icelandic Sagas and Viking history with a visit to the Snorastofa Museum in Reykholt, the manor farm of the eminent 13th century scholar, chieftain and writer of Sagas, Snorri Sturluson. The final stop of the day is Deildartunguhver, Europe's most powerful hot spring, before continuing on to Laugarbakki, a beautiful area steeped in old legends of outlaws, sorcerers and medieval battles.
Breakfast-Lunch-Dinner included
Hotel Laugarbakki
Siglufjordur
After breakfast, journey to Siglufjörður with a few stops along the way. Begin the day with an excursion through the beautiful landscapes of Iceland on horseback. Continue to Hofsós to visit the Icelandic Emigration Center which tells the story of 19th century Icelandic emigration to North and South America. Continue northwards, heading into a region of steep mountains and sweeping ocean views to the herring-fishing town of Siglufjörður. This pretty town is nestled in a dramatic fjord overlooking the Arctic Ocean. Visit the award-winning Herring-Era Maritime Museum, where you will learn about the herring migration boom that transformed Siglufjörður into a bustling community during the early part of the 20th century. Some historians believe this is the event that helped modernize Iceland as a nation.
Breakfast-Lunch-Dinner included
Siglo Hotel
Husavik
After breakfast at the hotel, depart Siglufjörður and head on to Eyjafjörður, the longest fjord in Iceland. In the town of Árskógssandur, you’ll take the local ferry to Hrísey, a tiny island in Eyjafjörður fjord, known for its abundant birdlife. Keep your eye out for Rock Ptarmigans, which are frequently observed on the island. Take a walking tour of the island. After sailing back to the mainland, visit the quaint fishing village of Hauganes and the family-owned Ektafiskur gourmet fish processing plant to learn how salted cod is prepared by hand. Next, journey onward to Akureyri, the Capital of the North. Enjoy some free time in Iceland’s second largest community. Set in a scenic fjord, Akureyri is a town with a vibrant art and culture scene. Relax in an outdoor café or browse for local crafts at the shops. Continue through a beautiful landscape of mountains and seacoast, enjoying views of Akureyri from across the sea before arriving in Húsavík, a pretty coastal town perched on the edge of the Arctic, within sight of the Arctic Circle, known as Iceland’s whale watching capital. Most recently the town received international fame as a filming location for the 2020 Will Ferrell movie Eurovision Song Contest: The Story of Fire Saga.
Breakfast-Lunch-Dinner included
Fosshotel Husavik
Husavik
Húsavík is known as the town of whales, your group will walk down to the bustling harbour and board a beautifully restored oak boat for a 3-hour whale watching tour. Trained marine biologist guides will tell you about different types of whales seen in the area, and they will also point out whale sightings during your sail. You’ll also enjoy a cup of hot chocolate and an Icelandic cinnamon roll. After the tour enjoy free time for lunch in the town’s harbour area (not included). Visit the Whale Museum, an internationally known museum with information and research about whales and dolphins. End the day with a visit to the GeoSea geothermal sea baths in Húsavík, which is on Time Magazine’s 2019 list of the World’s Greatest Places. It´s a special experience soaking in the healing ocean water as you enjoy the view towards the mountains and Arctic Circle. Dinner is on your own tonight, Húsavík has a nice variety of restaurants and pubs. The area specialty is fresh-caught seafood.
Breakfast- included
Fosshotel Husavik
Lake Myvatn
After breakfast and check-out, drive along the fossil rich Tjörnes peninsula to the northern part of Vatnajökull National Park. This is the Jökulsárgljúfur region of the park, where glacial floods and volcanic eruptions have created a unique landscape of canyons and surreal rock formations. Explore the lush vegetation growing in the horseshoe-shaped Ásbyrgi canyon. Vikings believed it was a hoof-print left by Sleipnir, Odin’s eight-legged flying horse from Norse mythology. Easy and scenic trails lead down to the enchanting canyon lake where you can enjoy views of forest and birds. Head through canyonlands and bizarre highland landscapes with views to the far-off Vatnajökull glacier. The park roads lead you to the powerful Dettifoss waterfall, the largest one in Europe. The roads lead you to the unforgettable Lake Mývatn area, a geological wonderland. Take in views of the shimmering turquoise waters inside the Krafla Viti Crater, then visit the nearby Krafla Power Plant to learn more about how Iceland harnesses geothermal energy. Some of the most bizarre attractions in the region are the bubbling mud pits and vibrant colours of Námaskarð geothermal area, the peculiar lava formations at Dimmuborgir, the pseudo-craters at Skútustaðir, and Laxá salmon river. Mývatn’s fantastical landscapes have made it a filming location for the popular HBO Game of Thrones series, as well as several Hollywood movies.
Breakfast-Lunch-Dinner included
Mývatn - Berjaya Iceland Hotels
Reykjavik
After breakfast, begin the journey back towards Akureyri for a short flight back to Reykjavik. On the way back to Akureyri you'll visit Goðafoss (the Waterfall of the Gods). Enjoy the view of glacial water thundering around surrounding lava to create a beautiful half-circle shaped cascade. Head to Akureyri and check-in for your domestic flight to Reykjavík on Icelandair. If the skies are clear, you'll have an amazing view over the dramatic highland wilderness of central Iceland during the 45-minute flight. Your group will be met at the airport and transferred to your hotel in Reykjavík for your last night in Iceland. In the late afternoon or early evening meet your guide for a final briefing then travel to Bryggjan Brugghus for an introduction to Icelandic beer at this local brewery accompanied with snacks. Later, have dinner on your own to sample the local cuisine. Transportation to the brewery is included, transfer back to hotel on own (taxi is about $160 back to the hotel).
Breakfast- included
Skuggi Hotel
Departure
Check out of the hotel and transfer to Keflavík airport for the flight back to the U.S. Check-out is at 12 pm.
Breakfast- included
Land Cost

$6,795

Per person

About this price

Land cost only. Does not include round-trip airfare to and from destination.

Single room supplement $850

What's Included
  • Activities and meals as mentioned in itinerary
  • Full time guide for the duration of your program
  • Private transportation and driver for the duration of the program
  • Internal flights relevant to itinerary
  • Arrival and departure transfers based on individual flight schedules
  • All tips
  • Water during meals
  • Carbon Offset
What's Not Included
  • International airfare
  • Travel Insurance
  • Items of personal nature
Pricing Details
Cost is based on a minimum of 10 participants in double occupancy.

Full payment of $6795 is due to hold space on this trip. This payment is not refundable; 100% cancellation fee.

Holbrook Travel strongly recommends the purchase of travel protection for medical emergencies while traveling and to protect your investment. Please note the purchase of Cancel for Any Reason Coverage or to exclude pre-existing conditions with Trip Cancellation coverage may require policy purchase within 10-14 days of your initial deposit, depending upon the provider.

Single room supplement $850


Final payment due date: June 20, 2025

Travel Info

Print Travel Info

Entry & Exit Requirements

U.S. citizens must have a passport valid at least three months beyond your planned date of departure from Iceland. As this requirement is subject to change without notice, we recommend at least six months' validity. Passport should have at least two blank pages.

A visa is not required for visits up to 90 days.

If you are not traveling with a U.S. passport, please check with the Icelandic Embassy for the requirements based on your nationality.

Health Information

IMMUNIZATIONS

The Centers for Disease Control recommends that all travelers be up to date on routine vaccinations such as measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine, diphtheria-pertussis-tetanus vaccine, varicella (chicken pox) vaccine, and your yearly flu shot before every trip.

There are no vaccinations required for entry into Iceland.

The CDC recommends vaccination against hepatitis A and hepatitis B for most unvaccinated travelers visiting Iceland.

Please consult your physician for additional information and recommendations based on your individual circumstances.

FROSTBITE

Frostbite is damage to the skin from freezing and is due to prolonged exposure to cold temperatures. Symptoms include patches of reddened skin that become white, hard, and swollen; or skin that burns, tingles, or is numb or painful. Severe cases can result in blisters or ulcers forming and may involve deeper tissues. The most common sites for frostbite are the fingers, hands, toes, feet, ears, nose, and cheeks.

To avoid frostbite, dress warmly and in layers but avoid tight clothing as it may reduce circulation. Keep the face and extremities covered. Avoid overheating and excessive perspiration. Change wet clothing, especially socks and gloves.

HYPOTHERMIA

Hypothermia is life-threatening. It is caused by cold, wet, or windy weather that causes the body to lose heat faster than it can produce heat. Hypothermia can occur in rugged mountain terrain where the weather can change extremely fast, or after being soaked in cold rivers or lakes.

Symptoms include feeling cold, uncontrollable shivering, clumsiness due to loss of muscle coordination, slurred speech, inability to think clearly, and eventual unconsciousness and cessation of reflexes including heart and lung functions. Many victims in the later stages of hypothermia feel warm and try to shed clothing.

To treat hypothermia, first warm the core of the body before the extremities. Remove any wet clothing. Re-warm the victim slowly; do not warm fast by immersing in warm/hot water. Provide shelter out of the weather. Warm drinks are not necessary, but may help in the psychological recovery. Do NOT give alcohol. Try to keep victim awake as this helps keep the body temperature up.

SUN EXPOSURE

Despite cold temperatures, the effects of the sun can be damaging to the eyes and skin. Spending time outdoors exposes you to the sun’s harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays, even on cloudy days. To protect yourself from the sun, use a broad spectrum sunscreen of at least SPF 15, protect skin with clothing, wear a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses, and drink plenty of fluids.

Respiratory Illness Protocols

Please review our Respiratory Illness Protocols page, which explains our policy and procedures if you or another traveler should develop symptoms of a respiratory illness during your trip. Your participation in a Holbrook Travel program indicates that you are in agreement with these protocols.

Resources

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Packing Recommendations

Everyone has personal preferences when it comes to packing; for this reason, the information below is offered as a general guide and not a definitive list. You know yourself best: Use your discretion and pack what you think will serve you, based on your personal preferences and specific itinerary.

You may find many of the items below in our Gear Store.

CLOTHING

Bring enough clothing suitable for the length of your program. During summer, the weather in Iceland will feel more like early spring or late fall. There may be warm days, but also expect cold, rain, mist, and fog. Pack clothing that can be worn in layers to adapt to weather changes throughout the day.

  • A combination of short-sleeved and long-sleeved shirts
  • Long pants, jeans, or trousers
  • Undergarments
  • Sleepwear
  • Jacket or sweaters/sweatshirts
  • 1-2 bathing suit(s) for swimming in hot springs
  • Socks – Bring extra pairs.
  • Shoes – Consider your specific itinerary when choosing footwear. For most programs, you’ll likely want at least one pair of comfortable, closed-toe walking or hiking shoes with good ankle protection. In addition, many participants opt for a pair of sturdy sport-strap sandals (e.g. Keens, Tevas, or similar) and/or casual flip-flops or sandals (for around the hot springs or your accommodations).
  • Lightweight rain jacket, hooded poncho, and/or windbreaker
  • Wool hat or beanie
  • Gloves
  • Bandana, scarf, or Buff-style headwear

Personal Toiletries

Pack toiletries based on your personal preferences and habits. Below are just a few recommendations to keep in mind.

  • Shampoo, conditioner, lotion, deodorant/antiperspirant , etc.
  • Soap and washcloth or a small, quick-drying microfiber towel
  • Hairbrush, comb, hair ties, shower cap. Most—but not all—hotel rooms provide a hair dryer, but you may wish to bring one from home.
  • Toothbrush and toothpaste
  • Razor
  • Ear plugs, especially if you are a light sleeper
  • Personal hygiene products
  • Insect repellent with DEET or picaridin
  • Sunscreen and lip balm with SPF
  • Aloe vera gel

In addition to your personal toiletries, it is useful to pack a small medical kit, which you can easily prepare. Helpful items might include: bandages, antihistamine, a pain reliever, motion sickness and/or altitude sickness medication (if you are prone to either), anti-diarrhea medicine, individually wrapped pre-moistened towelettes and/or hand sanitizer, antibiotic ointment, anti-fungal cream, a travel pack of tissues, moleskin for blisters, eye drops, tweezers, a mini sewing kit, and an extra pair of disposable contact lenses or eyeglasses if you wear them.

Miscellaneous

Remember to pack valuables such as your passport, cash/credit cards, and medications in your carry-on luggage.

  • Passport and photocopies of all travel documentation
  • Personal insurance card and travel insurance information
  • Money – ATM/credit card, traveler's checks, and/or cash; small bills in good condition are recommended
  • Prescription medicines (if applicable), with a copy of the prescription
  • Sunglasses with strap
  • Small day pack for hikes and excursions
  • Flashlight and/or head lamp
  • Travel alarm clock or inexpensive waterproof wristwatch with alarm
  • A pocket calculator or phone to assist with conversions and currency exchange
  • Binoculars with lens cleaner
  • Camera and related equipment, such as charger, lenses, and extra memory cards
  • Reusable water bottle
  • Non-perishable snacks
  • Pocket-knife or multipurpose tool - Pack in your checked luggage
  • Zip-top style bags – useful for packing toiletries, sorting clothing, storing damp or muddy shoes, or as a dry bag for protecting electronics)
  • Notepad or travel journal and pen
  • Music or reading material for down time, long bus drives, or on the airplane, and a portable bright light to read by
  • Collapsible walking stick with rubber tip
  • Money belt
  • Chargers for electronics
  • Plug converter and voltage adapter
Fabulous program, wonderful expansive view of Iceland, jam-packed, exciting, scenic, rich in fun and photo-ops.
- Maida Taylor
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