Winter in Iceland: Waterfalls & Aurora Nights - 5 Days

Frequently asked questions

• What is the main focus of the "Winter in Iceland: Waterfalls & Aurora Nights" tour?

  This five-day escape focuses on experiencing Iceland's dramatic natural features like glaciers and volcanoes, soaking in natural hot springs, chasing waterfalls, and walking between continents. A major highlight is staying up late to chase the Northern Lights.

• What are the age requirements for this tour?

  The minimum age to join this trip is 18 years, with a maximum age of 100 years.

• What is the typical group size for this tour?

  The maximum group size is 16 travellers, with an average group size of 12.

• What type of accommodation can I expect during the tour?

  You will stay in hotels for all 4 nights. These are typically small, family-run hotels or pensions, which are clean, safe, simple, and in convenient locations. Larger city hotels are used at the start and finish. Please note that most accommodation in Europe does not have air conditioning.

• What meals are included in the tour price?

  The tour includes 4 breakfasts, 1 lunch, and 3 dinners.

• What are some of the main highlights and activities included in the tour?

  Highlights include visiting majestic waterfalls like Seljalandsfoss (with the opportunity to walk behind it) and Skógafoss, exploring Thingvellir National Park, the Geysir Geothermal Area, and Gulfoss Waterfall. You'll unwind in the Secret Lagoon geothermal hot springs, have a choice of either hiking on Sólheimajökull Glacier or visiting the Skógar Museum, and meet Icelandic horses at a local farm. Evening walks in search of the Northern Lights are also a key part of the experience.

• Will I have opportunities to see the Northern Lights?

  Yes, the tour includes two CEO-led evening walks specifically in search of the Northern Lights. While sightings cannot be guaranteed, dedicated efforts are made.

• What is the physical rating for this tour?

  This tour has a physical rating of 3, suggesting a moderate level of activity.

• Who will be my guide on this tour?

  You will be accompanied by a Chief Experience Officer (CEO) throughout the trip, who will provide information, suggestions, and connect you with local experiences. Local guides are also utilized for specific knowledge in certain areas.

• Are there any optional activities available in Reykjavik?

  Yes, in Reykjavik, you can choose to visit the Hallgrímskirkja Church (for 1000ISK per person) or explore The National Museum of Iceland.

• How will we travel between locations on the tour?

  Transportation between destinations and for all included activities will be via private bus, with some walking involved.

• What currency is used in Iceland, and what are the recommendations for bringing money?

  The currency in Iceland is the Icelandic Krona (ISK). It is recommended to bring a combination of cash, credit cards, and debit cards.

• Is tipping included in the tour, and for whom?

  On Geluxe Collection tours, tipping is included for all included activities and meals. Tipping is not included for the CEO or for porterage. If you feel your CEO did an outstanding job, a guideline of $10-15 USD per person, per day is suggested. For meals and activities not included, a 10% tip is appropriate in Europe.

• Do solo travellers have to pay extra for accommodation?

  Our group trips are designed for shared accommodation, and solo travellers are paired with someone of the same sex, so there is no single supplement. However, if you book the "My Own Room" option, you will receive your own single room for all night stops.

• Is travel insurance required for this trip?

  Yes, travel insurance is compulsory to participate in any of our trips. It must cover medical expenses, including emergency evacuation and repatriation, with a minimum coverage of USD200,000. Coverage for personal liability, cancellation, curtailment, and loss of luggage is also strongly recommended.

• What is Planeterra and how is it involved with this tour?

  Planeterra International Foundation is a non-profit organization that helps local communities earn income from tourism by developing and supporting community-owned businesses. Your participation indirectly supports these initiatives, and you also have the option to join their "Dollar-a-day Program" to contribute directly.

• What are the main highlights of the "Winter in Iceland: Waterfalls & Aurora Nights" tour?

  This tour features walking behind the Seljalandsfoss waterfall, relaxing in the geothermal Secret Lagoon, evening walks in search of the Northern Lights, and visiting a local Icelandic horse farm.

• What type of accommodation can I expect during the tour?

  You will stay in hotels for 4 nights, typically small family-run hotels or pensions that are clean, safe, and centrally located. Please note that air conditioning is not standard in European hotels, but fans can be requested. Single rooms, if booked, may be smaller.

• What meals are included in this tour?

  The tour includes 4 breakfasts, 1 lunch, and 3 dinners.

• What is the typical group size for this tour?

  The maximum group size is 16 travellers, with an average group size of 12.

• What are the age requirements for this tour?

  The minimum age to join this trip is 18 years, and the maximum age is 100 years.

• What kind of transportation is used during the tour?

  Transportation during the tour is primarily by private bus and walking.

• Is travel insurance required for this trip?

  Yes, travel insurance is compulsory. It must cover medical expenses, including emergency evacuation and repatriation, with a minimum coverage of USD200,000. It's also recommended to cover personal liability, cancellation, curtailment, and lost luggage.

• Are international flights included in the tour price?

  No, international flights are generally not included in the tour price. You should contact your airline for baggage allowances and check-in information.

• What is the currency in Iceland, and what payment methods are recommended?

  The currency in Iceland is the Icelandic Krona (ISK). It is recommended to bring a combination of cash, credit cards, and debit cards.

• How much spending money should I budget for this trip?

  Spending money requirements vary per traveller based on personal habits for drinks, shopping, and additional activities. It's also recommended to have access to an additional USD $200 (or equivalent) as an emergency fund for unforeseen circumstances.

• Is tipping expected on this tour?

  Tipping for all included activities and meals is already covered as part of the Geluxe Collection tours. Tipping for your Chief Experience Officer (CEO) and porterage is not included; a guideline of $10-15 USD per person, per day is suggested for the CEO if you felt they did an outstanding job. For meals and activities not included in the itinerary, a 10% tip is appropriate in Europe.

• What is the role of the CEO (Chief Experience Officer) and other guides?

  A Chief Experience Officer (CEO) will accompany the group throughout the trip to assist with travel, provide information, suggest activities, and recommend local dining. Local guides are also used for specific places where their specialized knowledge enhances the experience. CEOs can provide orientation walks but cannot legally share historical facts in public places in Europe.

• Are there any optional activities available?

  Yes, in Reykjavik, optional activities include visiting the Hallgrímskirkja Church (1000 ISK per person) and exploring The National Museum of Iceland.

• What should solo travellers know about accommodation?

  Solo travellers are typically paired in twin or multi-share accommodation with someone of the same sex, and there is no single supplement for shared accommodation on group trips. If you prefer, you can book the "My Own Room" option for a single room for all night stops.

• What are the health considerations for this trip?

  It is your responsibility to consult with your travel doctor for up-to-date medical travel information and required inoculations before departure. We recommend carrying a First Aid kit and hand sanitizers. Our leaders are unable to administer medication. The trip has a physical rating of 3, so assess your ability to cope with this travel style.

• What are the visa and entry requirements for Iceland?

  All countries require a valid passport with a minimum of 6 months validity. Visa requirements vary by nationality. Iceland is part of the Schengen area, so a Schengen visa may apply. As of 2025, ETIAS travel authorization may be required for visa-exempt nationals. It is crucial to check the most up-to-date requirements with your local embassy or consulate.

• What is Planeterra?

  Planeterra International Foundation is a non-profit organization that helps local communities earn income from tourism by developing and supporting community-owned businesses, which are integrated into tour itineraries globally. You can donate $1/day to support their projects, with 100% of your donation going directly to these initiatives.

• Can I do laundry during the trip?

  Some hotels offer laundry facilities for a charge. Your CEO can also advise on the nearest laundromats. Bringing non-polluting/biodegradable soap is suggested for personal laundry.

• What safety and security measures should I be aware of?

  We recommend checking your government's travel advice, using a neck wallet/money belt for valuables, leaving expensive jewelry at home, and utilizing hotel safety deposit boxes. Locks for luggage are advised. CEOs can amend itineraries for safety concerns. While free time is provided, use good judgment for optional activities. In cities, travel in groups at night and consider taxis. Water-based activities should ideally be guided.

• Are there any rules or policies regarding traveler conduct?

  Illegal drugs will not be tolerated on any trips. The exploitation of people in the sex trade is completely contrary to our philosophy of respectful travel. CEOs have the right to expel any member of the group if drugs are found in their possession or if they utilize the services of paid sex workers.