NORTHERN LIGHTS AND NATURAL BEAUTY OF ICELAND

Transcription

1 NORTHERN LIGHTS AND NATURAL BEAUTY OF ICELAND MARCH 18-22, 2018 TRIP SUMMARY HIGHLIGHTS Exploring Iceland's stunning landscape, including seeing the scars of the 2010 volcano Visiting bubbling mud baths and spouting geysers in one of the most geothermally active areas in the world Riding an Icelandic horse and learning why they are so popular Experiencing walking on a glacier as we learn how they are made Looking for the Northern Lights Phone: Outside the US: Fax: info@goodadventure.com

2 TRIP AT A GLANCE Dates: Mar 18-22, 2018 Location: Reykjavik, Iceland Cost: $ Activities: Multisport Arrive: The morning of March 18 in Reykjavik, Iceland Depart: The afternoon of March 22 TRIP OVERVIEW The Aurora Borealis (aka the Northern Lights) is one of the most unforgettable of natural phenomena. While a sighting is never guaranteed anywhere, Iceland in March is one of the best places to see the shimmering curtains of light. But our five days will pack in much more than just looking for Northern Flights; we'll tour Reykjavik, walk on a glacier, ride an Icelandic pony, feast on Icelandic specialties, and see evidence of Iceland's geothermal activity in all its many forms, from geysers to volcanoes. We'll hope to see the Northern Lights but even if we don't, we'll come away with a deep appreciation of this most magical of countries. RATING Any healthy active woman. None of our activities are strenuous but our days are very full WHAT'S INCLUDED One English-speaking Icelandic guide and one Adventures in Good Company leader Four nights double occupancy accommodation All breakfasts, three lunches, and three dinners Airport transfers within Iceland as indicated in the itinerary Private vehicle and driver One hour ride on an Icelandic pony Glacier hike with crampons Admission to the Blue Lagoon Not included: Airfare to/from Iceland, alcoholic beverages, 1 dinner and 1 lunch, guide and driver gratuities

3 OUR ITINERARY Below is the proposed itinerary for the trip. As is true on any adventure travel trip, plans for any specific day may be modified due to weather considerations, unforeseen circumstances, new opportunities, and group interests. Note: You will need to leave the evening of March 17 to arrive in Reykjavik on March 18. If you can afford the time, we highly recommend coming a day early so that you have time to adjust to the time zone and adequate time in Reykjavik. We'll be happy to make reservations for you for a pre-trip night and getting into town from the airport is extremely simple. There is more than enough to see in Reykjavík to keep you occupied. DAY 1 MARCH 18, SUNDAY We'll be met at the airport and transferred to our hotel in Reykjavik, the capital city of Iceland and the world's most northerly capital. On the way to our hotel we'll have a driving tour of the city so we can get oriented and stop for a sumptuous buffet breakfast with a variety of Icelandic foods. We may not be able to check in until later but we'll be able to stow our luggage. We're leaving the rest of the day free to relax or explore on your own. There are numerous shops, museums, and galleries nearby and popular sights such as the "Pearl", Hallgrimskirkja Church, the harbor and the famous 101 Reykjavik neighborhood, including the Parliament and the Cathedral. Your guide will have an informal tour planned and you are welcome to join her or meet up later for dinner, or to strike out on your own. B DAY 2 MARCH 19, MONDAY After enjoying an extensive buffet breakfast, our guide will pick us up for what promises to be the start of four very full days. Today's tour is commonly known as the Golden Circle, one of the most popular tours in Iceland. And no wonder! It showcases Iceland's dramatic scenery, human history, and geothermal activity. We begin with a drive to Thingvellir National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the location of Iceland's Parliament between the years 930 and Thingvellir is also one of the few places in the world where you can see the effects of the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates pulling apart. We will spend about 1-2 hours walking and viewing in the Thingvellir area. Next we visit the Geysir hot springs, known for bubbling hot springs and spouting geysers. We'll gaze in awe at Strokkur, the most active geyser of the area, spouting up to feet. We'll also enjoy a buffet lunch with hot and cold Icelandic specialties. Then it's on to Gullfoss waterfalls, one of Iceland's most dramatic waterfalls where the Hvita River plunges steeply down into a deep, meandering gorge. From Gullfoss a drive through classic Icelandic farmland brings us to Hotel Fljotshlid on the farm Smaratun where we will stay for two nights. This family-run farm and hotel Smaratun is located in the beautiful Fljotshlid area with views of Eyjafjallajokull volcano. The people who run the farm are wonderful AND they have an amazing cook. The farm, with no light pollution around, is a great location to look for those famous Northern Lights! At some point during our stay at Smaratun we will visit a neighboring farm to meet and ride the beautiful and friendly Icelandic horses. The sturdy and sure-footed Icelandic breed is the original Viking horse and is famous for its fifth gait, the smooth tolt. B, L, D

4 DAY 3 MARCH 20, TUESDAY Today we'll explore Iceland's South Shore. After a hearty breakfast with homemade bread and other wonderful selections, we start our adventure along the south coast of Iceland. First we stop at the beautiful Seljalandsfoss waterfall, where you can walk behind the waterfall. Then it's on to Solheimajokull glacier, where we'll go on a glacier hike. Equipped with crampons and other glacier gear, a professional glacier guide will teach us how to walk safely in the crampons and then lead us in an exploration of the amazing world of the glacier. We'll refuel with a hearty lunch in the small village of Vik, and then have time for a visit a woolen goods store and the blacksanded beach. On the way back to Smaratun, we'll stop at Skogafoss waterfall and Dyrholaey promontory. Another delicious dinner, comfy bed, and - maybe - the Northern Lights, ends our day. B, L, D DAY 4 MARCH 21, WEDNESDAY Today our mountain bus (a 4x4 bus with large tires) picks us up in the morning for a daylong journey into the Thorsmork Wilderness Area. Packing a picnic lunch we head into this dramatic wilderness area on the north side of Eyjafjallajokull, the volcano that erupted in the spring of Getting there is half the fun! Our mountain bus will need to cross a series of unbridged streams and rivers - in March some of them will be filled with ice - before reaching its destination: run-off glacier Gigjokull. It is here that the effects of the massive eruption of 2010 are most clearly visible: hills covered with ash, flood debris scattered across the valley floor, steam rising from tunnels in ice dozens of meters thick. We'll take a short hike across an otherworldly landscape leading to the site where floodwaters gushed out from under the glacier during the eruption. Later in the day, and depending on conditions, we'll either hike to one of many view-points in the area or explore one of the countless gullies and ravines that dissect the north face of the volcano. Before returning to Reykjavik, we will stop in Stokkseyri fishing village and have a delicious langostine lobster dinner at the renowned Fjorubordid restaurant located by the ocean. Yum! We will return to the Center Plaza Hotel in Reykjavik for our last evening. B, L, D DAY 5 MARCH 22, THURSDAY But wait, there's more! On our way back to the airport for an afternoon/evening flight home, we'll stop at the Blue Lagoon, one of Iceland's most well-known destinations. But we'll do more than look! We'll soak up the scenic beauty and enjoy breathing the fresh air while relaxing in the warm geothermal seawater. What a fitting way to end our Iceland journey! We'll return to the airport in time for our afternoon flights. And if we haven't seen the Northern Lights? We'll just have to come back for another try. B

5 ADDITIONAL TRIP INFORMATION GETTING THERE Flights: You will be flying into Keflavik International Airport (KEF). Airlines that fly into Iceland include ICELAND AIR and WOW. Keflavik International is located approximately minutes from Reykjavik. If arriving on 3/18, your group will be met by a shuttle and taken to your lodging. Specific details for the group transportation will be sent out with the pre-trip letter, 6 weeks before the trip. If you are arriving prior to the trip beginning (which is a great idea!), you will need to use one of the shuttles available at the airport. We recommend (and have used in the past) the Flybus ( ) shuttle It is the most convenient and economical way to make the transit into the city. A one-way ticket is approximately $ These tickets can be purchased at a kiosk after you leave the customs area (clearly marked), at an automated machine in the same area, or, if you are flying Iceland Air, you can purchase while still onboard the flight from the flight attendants as they make their rounds with the duty free items. You can purchase your ticket with a credit card. Other possible transportation into the city would include the following: Public Transportation: Iceland cities do have public bus system (with a reputation of being reliable and punctual) and taxis that are readily available as well. Rental Cars: Rental cars are available at the airport. The major rental companies represented include Hertz, Sixt, Avis, National, Budget, Dollar and Thrifty. Just so you know---they do drive on the right side of the road in Iceland. If you would like help with travel plans we recommend our travel agent Sara Schuitemaker at sara@scaneastwest.com or call 800/ ACCOMMODATIONS 2 nights at the Center Hotel Plaza, located right near the city center 2 nights at Hotel Fljotshlid (Smaratun), a family run farm and guest ranch Please note: Vegetarian options for this trip will be limited. Other types of dietary needs cannot be accommodated unless supplemental food is brought WEATHER The rule about Icelandic weather is that it is VERY changeable and fickle. The weather that you wake up to in the morning is probably not the weather you will have all day. Always be ready for rain/snow and wind. It will usually be somewhat colder in the areas outside of Reykjavik. Average temperatures for March are degrees Fahrenheit. Please follow the packing list closely. TRAVEL INSURANCE WE STRONGLY RECOMMEND TRIP CANCELLATION/TRIP INTERRUPTION INSURANCE, WHICH COVERS YOUR COST IF YOU NEED TO CANCEL OR INTERRUPT YOUR TRIP for medical reasons, trip delay, lost baggage, and other unforeseen emergencies. Adventures in Good Company will send you information about travel insurance with your registration information, or you may purchase coverage through your own insurance company. In order to avoid disappointment and expense in the event that you must cancel your trip we strongly urge you to purchase some type of insurance coverage. You can also sign up for it online at Travelex Insurance. To get the best rates, use as your location number on the Get A Quote page.

6 PACKING LIST OUTDOOR CLOTHING: Temperatures on this trip can range from 20 to 45, and with the wind chill it can often feel colder. We recommend dressing in layers from long underwear to a wind-proof outer layer. If you have questions about what to bring or what you can make do with, please give us a call (toll free) ). 1 pair light to mid-weight hiking boots that are waterproof 2-3 pairs hiking socks: wool or synthetic equivalent 2 pair liner socks: silk or synthetic equivalent (only if you routinely use them) 1 2 long sleeve synthetic shirts (For clothing, see Notes on Packing List for details. 1-2 pair lightweight, quick-drying hiking pants. 1 pair lightweight long underwear top and bottoms 1 medium-weight wool/fleece sweater or shirt 1 warm down/fleece jacket 1 rain jacket with hood and rain pants See Notes on Packing List for details 1 warm hat and gloves: wool or fleece. 1 buff or neck gaiter 1 wide-brimmed hat or baseball cap for rain/sun INDOOR CLOTHING: 1 pair comfortable shoes to wear when we re not hiking. Athletic shoes or sandels work well. Underwear/nightwear Casual clothing for around the lodge and going out to dinner in Reykjavík Bathing suit for hot tub and Blue Lagoon ESSENTIALS Passport and Xeroxed copy 1 bandana 1 one-quart water bottle Sunglasses with case and retention strap Sunscreen and lip balm with at least SPF 15 1 day pack large enough to hold your supplies for the day See Notes on Packing List for details 1 Pack Cover for day pack or line your pack with 1 large trash bag for waterproofing. Small flashlight or headlamp Watch/travel clock TOILETRIES (small everything) Toothbrush, toothpaste, dental floss, lotion, shampoo, conditioner, personal hygiene items, contact lens paraphernalia/glasses - if you wear them Personal patch kit See Notes on Packing List for details Please note: Individuals who have had or have the potential for a severe allergic reaction to insect stings, specific foods or medications must bring an epi-pen. Please consult your physician and tell your guide. OPTIONAL PERSONAL GEAR Trekking poles Ear plugs Your favorite snack

7 NOTES ON PACKING ADVENTURES IN GOOD COMPANY'S PACKING LIST COVERS EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO ASSURE YOUR SAFETY AND COMFORT. YOU MAY NOT USE EVERYTHING YOU BRING; HOWEVER, YOU NEED TO COME PREPARED FOR ALL POSSIBLE WEATHER CONDITIONS. AT THE SAME TIME, YOU MUST BE ABLE TO CARRY YOUR OWN LUGGAGE, SOMETIMES UP AND DOWN STAIRS. Daypacks: Your daypack should be large enough to hold the following items: 1 2 liters of water, rain gear, lunch/snacks (for the day), sun screen, warm layer (fleece pullover or vest), personal first aid kit, lightweight gloves, warm hat and personal items such as camera, etc. We recommend a daypack with a capacity of between 1800 and 2400 cubic inches with a hip belt, padded shoulder straps, and lifters. Line your daypack with a durable plastic bag to keep your belongings dry, or have an elasticized pack cover that fits snuggly over it. Before you leave home check to be sure that it is comfortable to wear all day and has sufficient space for all of your items. Note: Fanny-packs and hydration packs are not large enough to hold all of the items you will need for the day. Footwear: Well-fitting, sturdy boots or trail shoes are very important to your safety and enjoyment. If you plan to buy new boots, break them in by wearing them around town and taking some short hikes before your trip. For general hiking, lightweight or midweight cordura or leather boots with a Vibram sole work well. If you have weak ankles or are recovering from an ankle injury, get boots that come above the ankle you ll find that this will give you more support in uneven or slippery terrain. Remember to waterproof your boots before the trip. Even boots billed as waterproof need to be treated with a waterproofing product. Personal First Aid Kit: Bring a small first aid kit with familiar medicine and first aid supplies you might need. Recommendations include the following: blister or foot remedies like moleskin, Compeed, blister bandages, or similar, a small role of duct tape (always useful!), remedies for respiratory ailments, stomach ailments, sore muscles or joints. The guides will have a first aid kit but having what you know works well for you is a good idea. Clothing: The clothing listed on the packing list has been chosen for your specific trip conditions and for its versatility for layering. NO COTTON for your active wear! It should all be made from synthetic/synthetic blends, down/down blends or wool/wool blends. Layering is the most practical and efficient method of insulating the body. Several layers of varied weight materials provide better insulation than one thick Layer of clothing. Also, adding or subtracting layers allows you to adjust to the temperature at your particular level of activity. Rain Gear: You will need a parka or jacket made of a coated nylon or a waterproof/breathable fabric like Gore-tex, HellyTech, Membrane, H2No, or Ultrex. Be sure it keeps water out. Before making this important purchase, be sure that it fits you properly. It should be large enough to fit over all your layers. In particular, the hood needs to be effective. It should shield your face from the rain and turn with your head. Movement of your arms must not interfere with the hood. Put on your daypack; can you still raise your arms? Your wind/rain pants should be comfortable, allow enough room for your layers, and permit free movement of your legs (for example, can you crouch comfortably?). Partial or full-length leg zippers are useful for easily putting your pants on over your boots. An inexpensive plastic poncho will both leak and tear easily and is not recommended.