Iceland Hike and Explore

HIKING: Hikes range from 2 to 6 miles a day and an average of 2-4 hours of physical activity per day. Some hikes are steep. You will carry your day pack with only what you will need for each day hike.

WEATHER: Weather in Iceland changes frequently. Temperatures range from 45F – 60F degrees and you will frequently experience cool temperatures. Be prepared for all types of weather. Rain is likely at some point so a good raincoat is important.

YOUR GROUP: The group size will be 6-12 participants and 1-2 Wilderness Inquiry guides. Each group consists of like-minded travelers of various ages, backgrounds, and abilities, including people with disabilities. WI trips are group oriented. Staff will assist you in whatever areas you need an, most people pitch in where they can.

ACCOMMODATIONS: We will sleep in a variety of guesthouses, bed and breakfasts, and hotels at night. Typically there are 2 people per room, matched by gender or requests to room together. Your group will travel together in a comfortable van.

SINGLE TRAVELERS: If you are traveling alone, you will feel at home with a welcoming group. If you would like to have your own room throughout the trip, you may purchase a single supplement for an additional fee. Please email or call us if you would like this option.

MEALS: We will have breakfasts provided at our accommodations, pack picnic lunches and have dinners at local restaurants in the evenings. There will be snacks provided throughout each day. We’ll enjoy happy hours together, but the purchase of alcoholic beverages is not included in the trip fees. Alcohol is expensive in Iceland, but you can bring your own. Check out this little duty free allowance calculator.

EQUIPMENT AND CLOTHING: Since weather can vary, you will need layers. We will provide you a suggested the packing list with our confirmation packet.

COVID VACCINATION: All participants (and our staff) are required to be fully vaccinated and up-to-date (including the booster). Please see our website for the most recent information. https://www.wildernessinquiry.org/covid19/

HEALTH PRE-SCREENING: We encourage you to self-screen for any signs of illness prior to your trip’s departure. Please contact Wilderness Inquiry if you are exhibiting signs of illness or have been in contact with someone who tested positive for COVID-19 within the 2 weeks prior to your trip departure date.

SAFETY WHILE ON TRAIL: All participants and staff must wear a well-fitted mask while riding in a Wilderness Inquiry van or participating with Wilderness Inquiry transportation. Masks are not required outdoors although some individuals may choose to wear a mask. Please respect these choices. Please ensure proper hygiene including, but not limited to, hand-washing and/or sanitizing before eating and after using the restroom. Individuals that become ill or test positive for COVID-19 during a Wilderness Inquiry experience are responsible for their own transportation and expenses to depart the trip. 

Iceland is steeped in rich cultural history, as well. The Vikings established the world’s first democratic parliament in Iceland in 930 AD. The ruins of the site sit in Thingvellir National Park, which was designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2004 to recognize the global importance of that event. Later, Iceland was subject to rule by other countries, including Denmark, until the country gained its independence in 1944 following occupation by the UK during WWII. The Republic of Iceland was established on June 17, 1944.

Formed 20 million years ago by a series of underwater volcanic eruptions, Iceland is situated between two tectonic plates – the North American and the Eurasian. In 2010 the volcano Eyjafjallajokull began erupting, emitting a huge ash plume that halted European air traffic for a week. Due to this eruption, international attention shifted to Iceland and tourism boomed, resulting in much needed economic stability for the nation. It has become the fastest growing travel destination in Europe.

Wildlife in Iceland is few and far between. Aside from sheep, birds and horses, you’ll be hard pressed to garner any animal sightings. The only indigenous land mammal is the elusive Arctic fox found in the Westfjords. Birds are prolific on coastal cliffs often forming massive colonies near the sea. Gannets, kittiewakes, razorbills and puffins are among the most impressive. Iceland also has a thriving marine life including humpback whales, dolphins, porpoises and seals.