Hike, Snowshoe, and Look for the Northern Lights

Winter Adventures in Iceland

Iceland

8 Days

From $6,995

Level 3+

Moderate

Overview

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    Call 1-800-368-2794 or contact us for any questions

    Overview

    Winter is a magical season in Iceland, with far fewer visitors, a snow-dusted landscape, and the chance to see the northern lights! Our winter adventure brims with outdoor escapades, and we've timed the journey to give us plenty of daylight hours to enjoy our activities. We'll snowshoe along lava fields with sweeping vistas across the coast, cross an icy glacier with crampons (no experience necessary), explore World Heritage-listed Thingvellir National Park, soak in thermal pools, walk down into a giant lava tube, and hike to some of Iceland's most legendary waterfalls, including Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss. As night falls, we search for the spectacular blue, green, and violet arcs shimmering across the sky above us. We've selected hotels in the best spots for seeing the aurora!

    Arrive: Reykjavík, Iceland

    Depart: Reykjavík, Iceland

    Highlights

    • Search for the elusive northern lights in Iceland's prime viewing locations
    • Snowshoe and hike in Iceland's otherworldly landscapes—glaciers, waterfalls, volcanic craters, moss-covered peaks
    • Explore the geological wonders of Thingvellir National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site
    • Savor fresh Icelandic cuisine

    Overview

      Book Online Download Itinerary

      Call 1-800-368-2794 or contact us for any questions

      Itinerary

      Download Itinerary Expand All Days
      Heading to the Blue Mountains outside Reykjavík, we snowshoe across an ancient crater (no snowshoeing experience is needed—it's just like hiking), and we'll hike to Skógafoss, a waterfall that emerges from the mighty Myrdalsjökull Glacier and plunges 200 feet off a sheer rock shelf. At night, we'll be on “northern lights alert.” Our countryside hotel gives us great viewing prospects far from the city lights, and its restaurant serves some of the freshest fish imaginable.
      We watch for the spouting plumes of Great Geysir, which gave its name to all the world's geysers, then hike and snowshoe in Thingvellir National Park, a World Heritage Site located on the dramatic rift zone between the North American and European continental plates. From our hotel in Húsafell, we can snowshoe right from the door, and by night, enjoy soaks in its geothermal pools (the hotel's Northern Lights Lounge, with floor to ceiling windows, is our cozy viewing spot). Snowshoeing brings us up Mt. Strútur and onward to a lava field with a 1.5-mile-long lava tube filled with stalagmites and stalactites. Our hotel's location has the clearest skies in Iceland, perfect for our prospects of seeing the lights.
      Snaefellsnes means “Snow Mount” and is a stunning realm of golden beaches, wild trails, and remote caves. We'll hike through lava fields on old fishermen's trails to remote beaches and up to the summit of a perfectly shaped crater. Enjoy a morning to explore Reykjavík and a soak in geothermal pools before departing on Day 8.

      Dates & Pricing

      Pricing below is per person and based on double occupancy. The earlier you book, the more choice you’ll have. WT also has the most generous cancellation and transfer policies in the industry, we make it easy if you change your mind. Have a small group of your own? Take over an existing date or choose your own. You’ll have your own private guide–and the adventure–all to yourselves!

      Payment & Cancel Schedule

      $600 due at time of reservation
      90 days prior to departure: Balance

      Cancellation & Transfer Schedule

      Up to 91 days prior to departure: No Charge!
      61-90 days prior to departure: 25% of trip cost
      46-60 days prior to departure: 50% of trip cost
      45 days or less: 100% of trip cost

      Included
      • Expert leadership of a Wilderness Travel Trip Leader and local guides
      • Accommodations in comfortable lodges and a hotel
      • All meals
      • A glass of wine or beer with dinner
      • All transportation and baggage handling from meeting until departure
      • All activities as indicated in Detailed Itinerary
      Not Included
      • Travel to and from the arrival and departure location as indicated in Detailed Itinerary
      • Additional hotel nights outside the trip's scheduled dates
      • Optional gratuities to Trip Leaders or staff
      • Optional travel insurance
      • Other expenses of a personal nature (some alcoholic beverages, laundry, etc.)

      Accommodations

      Scroll through our signature accommodations for this trip below. Although it is highly unlikely, we may make substitutions when necessary.

      Hotel Rangá

      Hella, Iceland

      Days 1-2 (2 nights)

      Halfway between Reykjavík and Vík along the south coast, the Hotel Rangá has a wonderfully isolated setting. The Rangá offers spacious, well-appointed rooms, and a good restaurant that serves some of the freshest fish imaginable. The hot tubs have amazing views.

      Hotel Húsafell

      Stórarjódur, Iceland

      Days 3-4 (2 nights)

      Hotel Húsafell is set on the grounds of a large former farm and surrounded by rolling hills. Guest rooms are large, well appointed, and comfortable, with floor to ceiling windows. The hot tub on the patio has amazing views overlooking the river, and it's...

      Fosshotel Stykkishólmur

      Stykkishólmur, Iceland

      Days 5-6 (2 nights)

      Set in the lovely fishing village of Stykkishólmur (pop. 1,100!), this hotel offers simple but clean, modern guest rooms with the amenities you would expect in a large city hotel. The onsite restaurant has a good breakfast buffet, and the staff is friendly and courteous.

      Berjaya Reykjavik Marina Hotel

      Reykjavík, Iceland

      Day 7 (1 night)

      Set in Reykjavík's marina district, close to the shops and restaurants, the Berjaya Reykjavik Marina Hotel has guest rooms with colorful and “quirky” modern décor combined with maritime antiques. The common spaces that take up the entire ground floor include a restaurant and renowned cocktail...

      Trip Leaders

      Wilderness Travel Trip Leaders have a passion and a joy for creating an unforgettable journey. We are extremely proud of them and the incredible travel experiences they make possible. For more information, including client comments about them and which specific trips they will be leading, please click on their profiles below.

      Kristján Björn

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      Sölvi Þór Jónasson

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      Orri Sigurjónsson

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      Jón Marinó Sævarsson

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      Óskar Guðjónsson

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      What the Trip is Like

      This trip is rated Level 3+, Moderate to Strenuous, according to our trip grading system. It features daily hiking and snowshoeing (3-7 hours a day) and hotel accommodations throughout.


      Due to its location in the path of the North Atlantic Current, Iceland's winter weather is not as severe as the latitude might suggest, but is also wildly variable on a daily basis. As snow cover comes and goes throughout the winter months, we have designed the trip to include either hiking or snowshoeing depending on current conditions. While your Trip Leaders will make every effort to do all of the activities described in the itinerary, they have the group's safety as their highest priority and may alter the itinerary to make the best of weather conditions during your trip.

      Review Trip Level Details

      No previous experience is required for snowshoeing; it is just like hiking. Snowshoes will be provided, and they strap right onto your hiking boots. Our snowshoe-hikes can be strenuous as we will be traveling across snowfields with varying conditions, from soft powder to snow with a light crust of ice. If there is no snow, we will be hiking on varied terrain, from packed dirt to lava fields. Hiking poles are provided. There is no extreme elevation change in our daily outings, but we will be ascending up to ridges — and descending back down! The conditions will dictate our exact route each day, as we choose the best route for views and an experience of the Icelandic landscape.

      For your own enjoyment, we recommend you make a special effort to be in good physical condition. Daily brisk walking and/or regular hiking (or using a stair-climbing machine at your gym) are excellent preparatory exercises.

      Iceland's weather is windy, wet, and changeable: it's said that you can encounter four seasons in a day here. The conditions will dictate our exact schedule each day, as we choose the best route for views and an experience of the Icelandic landscape—you should be prepared to be flexible, as weather has the final say in determining our itinerary. Though it is located just below the Arctic Circle, Iceland is usually warmer than other places at this latitude due to the moderating influence of the Gulf Stream. These ocean currents interact with cold air from the north and often bring precipitation. Snow cover comes and goes throughout the winter months.

      We have designed the trip to include either hiking or snowshoeing, depending on whether there is snow cover. Your Trip Leaders have the group's safety as their highest priority, and will alter the itinerary as needed depending on weather conditions. They will make every effort to do all of the activities described in the itinerary, however you may be on snowshoes or in hiking boots, and the order of the trip may be changed in order to make the best of the weather conditions.

      Sturdy, warm, and well-broken-in hiking boots are essential, and they must be full hiking boots that support your ankles (no running shoes or below-ankle hiking shoes). Gaiters are great for protecting your pant legs from getting wet, and hiking poles are highly recommended. A Gore-Tex jacket (with a hood) and rain pants are essential, as well as fleece and Capilene layers to keep you warm. A full packing list will be sent with your sign-up packet.

      We drive to a starting point for our hiking and snowshoeing, and our vehicle picks us up at the end of the hike to drive us to our night's lodging. Some days combine sightseeing at waterfalls and cultural sites with hiking/snowshoeing. Our longest drive will be to Húsafell on Day 5 and back on Day 7, approximately 3 hours each way, but road conditions can change that timing. The weather has the final say in Iceland! On other days we have as little as 10 minutes to our trailhead, and even hike right out from our hotel on Day 4.

      Our nights will be spent at comfortable hotels and inns. Please keep in mind that on this trip we are crossing rural Iceland. The rooms in our hotels and inns will not always conform to international hotel standards and sizes, and décor can be 'Scandinavian spare'. Our lunches will most often be packed lunches that we bring along with us on the trail, with one lunch inside a greenhouse as we head to Nesvellir. Please note that in Europe, the dinner hour is considerably later than what it is in the U.S. We do our best to secure early reservations for our groups, but most often the evening meal will be at 7:30 pm.

      The aurora borealis appear intermittently in the night skies from October through March. Seeing the aurora is contingent on many factors including solar storms, Earth's shifting magnetic field, cloud cover, and precipitation. We have timed the trip carefully, and designed it to get you to the places in the country with the very best possibility of seeing the northern lights. Our final base at Hotel Húsafell, in particular, is considered one of the best spots in Iceland for watching the northern lights. It is important to remember that the northern lights are a natural phenomenon dependent on natural forces outside of our control and are not guaranteed. We are, however, pleased to say that the majority of our groups have managed to see the aurora in some form. Additionally, we have packed the trip with great winter activities -- this trip is much more than a northern lights trip!

      Client Testimonials

      "We had an amazing time in this starkly beautiful country. Our guides and group got along so well."

      Jody D.

      Sacramento, CA

      "Fantastic adventure in incomparable, inspiring, intriguing, impressive, incredible Iceland! What an exhilarating experience we had with the best ever knowledgeable, gallant, and gracious guides, fun and fantastic people, stunning scenery, amazing Auroras, with great food and weather too."

      Mary Ellen M.

      Nanuet, NY

      "Certainly a trip for the memory books. Great fellow travelers and first class leadership."

      Robert C.

      Corrales, NM

      "This was an amazing trip! The scenery was gorgeous and we experienced so much. I rarely see snow anymore and it was a winter wonderland of snow for a week. We hiked in the blue ice glaciers, saw waterfalls and geysers, experienced a variety of spas, took a 5-hour hike up to a mountain ridge, and hiked to the top of a glacier. We also saw black beaches and got to use chains, crampons, snowshoes, and hiking poles, depending on the situation. The Sky Lagoon was a fun ending."

      Ruth B.

      Raleigh, NC

      "I can't say enough about how much fun this trip was. The food was outstanding, as were the hotels."

      Sue B.

      Lighthouse Point, FL

      Book your trip today

      Our Area Specialists know every detail about our tours. They will be happy to answer any questions and help you choose the journey that’s right for you. Contact us to learn more or book your trip today!

      Itinerary

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      Trip Levels

      With more than 200 different adventures to choose from, we want to help you find the trip that’s right for you. Our Trip Level system ranks each trip in two ways: a number rating from 1 to 6 according to the activity, and general travel rigors. 1 is the easiest and 6+ the most difficult—see descriptions below for explanations of each number. A plus (+) sign means the trip is a bit more strenuous than other trips of that level. The detailed explanation of each trip—below the bar with the number rating—is perhaps more important, specifying activities, altitudes, hiking, and travel conditions. The Detailed Itinerary, available by download or mail, gives further information. Our Area Managers can also answer questions and guide you to the trip that best suits your interests.

      Level 1 – Easiest

      Non-camping journeys, optional walks, little elevation gain or loss.

      Level 2 – Easy to Moderate

      Hotel nights and/or safari-style camping, hikes of two to four hours on some days. Other physical activities are sometimes included, such as optional sea kayaking.

       

      Level 3 – Moderate

      Half- to full-day hikes (3-6 hours) over rolling countryside on most days, occasional steep trails. Many of our hotel-based walking tours are in this category, as are our snorkeling adventures.

      Level 4 – Moderate to Strenuous

      Full-day hikes (4-6 hours), mountainous terrain, significant elevation gains and losses (hiking up or down as much as 3,000 feet) on many days. Altitudes no greater than about 10,000 feet.

       

      Level 5 – Strenuous

      Full-day hikes (4-8 hours), mountainous, steep terrain (hiking up or down as much as 3,500 feet) on many days. Trips with hiking at average altitudes of 10,000 to 12,000 feet are in this category.

      Level 6 – Very Strenuous

      Full-day hikes (5-8 hours), mountainous, steep terrain (hiking up or down as much as 3,500 feet) on many days. Most hikes take place at altitudes above 10,000 feet, with some days ascending as high as 18,000 feet.

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Originally from Kirkjub&aelig;jarklaustur in the south of Iceland, though currently living in Reykjav&iacute;k, he holds a degree in arts from the Icelandic College of Art and Crafts and another degree from the Academy of Fine Arts in Vienna. When not leading trips, you can often find Kristj&aacute;n seeking out new adventures for art inspiration.","BioLong":"As a nature enthusiast, visual artist, and experienced guide with a love for Iceland&apos;s extreme landscapes, Kristj&aacute;n Bj&ouml;rn has led countless excursions in his home country, including many photography tours. Originally from Kirkjub&aelig;jarklaustur in the south of Iceland, though currently living in Reykjav&iacute;k, he holds a degree in arts from the Icelandic College of Art and Crafts and another degree from the Academy of Fine Arts in Vienna. When not leading trips, you can often find Kristj&aacute;n seeking out new adventures for art inspiration."},{"GuideID":850326,"First_Name":"S&ouml;lvi \u00de&oacute;r","Last_Name":"J&oacute;nasson","BioShort":"S&ouml;lvi \u00de&oacute;r J&oacute;nasson was raised deep in Iceland's Westfjords, \"where the road ends\" at a farm in the smallest and most isolated commune on the island. He is a true nature lover and spends most of his time in the wilderness of his home country. S&ouml;lvi holds a degree in tourism and has been working in the field since 2013. When he is not introducing travelers to the wonders of Iceland, he enjoys fly fishing, snowmobiling, soccer, and golf.","BioLong":"S&ouml;lvi \u00de&oacute;r J&oacute;nasson was raised deep in Iceland's Westfjords, \"where the road ends\" at a farm in the smallest and most isolated commune on the island. He is a true nature lover and spends most of his time in the wilderness of his home country. S&ouml;lvi holds a degree in tourism and has been working in the field since 2013. When he is not introducing travelers to the wonders of Iceland, he enjoys fly fishing, snowmobiling, soccer, and golf. "},{"GuideID":851157,"First_Name":"Orri","Last_Name":"Sigurj&oacute;nsson","BioShort":"Orri Sigurj&oacute;nsson grew up in the small town of Hvanneyri in the western region of Iceland. He studied carpentry in college, but his true calling has always been the enchantments of Iceland's rugged landscapes, and he has been guiding in Iceland since 2010. \"Traveling throughout the mountains is my passion,\" he says, \"and being able to share that passion with other travelers and show them around my beautiful country is something I consider a privilege.\" When he's not leading trips, he enjoys mountaineering, skiing, ice climbing, skydiving, and playing music with his band, Vertigo.","BioLong":"Orri Sigurj&oacute;nsson grew up in the small town of Hvanneyri in the western region of Iceland. He studied carpentry in college, but his true calling has always been the enchantments of Iceland's rugged landscapes, and he has been guiding in Iceland since 2010. \"Traveling throughout the mountains is my passion,\" he says, \"and being able to share that passion with other travelers and show them around my beautiful country is something I consider a privilege.\" When he's not leading trips, he enjoys mountaineering, skiing, ice climbing, skydiving, and playing music with his band, Vertigo."},{"GuideID":851207,"First_Name":"J&oacute;n Marin&oacute;","Last_Name":"S&aelig;varsson","BioShort":"J&oacute;n Marin&oacute; S&aelig;varsson was born and raised in Akureyri, the \"Capital of North Iceland.\" He has explored many parts of Iceland and loves sharing his culture with other travelers. When he is not guiding, he enjoys mountain biking, skiing, hiking, and fly fishing.","BioLong":"J&oacute;n Marin&oacute; S&aelig;varsson was born and raised in Akureyri, the \"Capital of North Iceland.\" He has explored many parts of Iceland and loves sharing his culture with other travelers. When he is not guiding, he enjoys mountain biking, skiing, hiking, and fly fishing."},{"GuideID":850838,"First_Name":"\u00d3skar","Last_Name":"Gu&eth;j&oacute;nsson","BioShort":"\u00d3skar Gu&eth;j&oacute;nsson was born and raised in Reykjav&iacute;k and at age 12 moved with his family to a small fishing village in the Icelandic countryside. His love of outdoor adventure led him to pursue a degree in Outdoor Education at Australia's La Trobe University. He is on the board of a volunteer rescue organization in Reykjav&iacute;k, teaches and guides groups in sea kayaking, trekking, and skiing, and also enjoys sailing.","BioLong":"\u00d3skar Gu&eth;j&oacute;nsson was born and raised in Reykjav&iacute;k and at age 12 moved with his family to a small fishing village in the Icelandic countryside. His love of outdoor adventure led him to pursue a degree in Outdoor Education at Australia's La Trobe University. He is on the board of a volunteer rescue organization in Reykjav&iacute;k, teaches and guides groups in sea kayaking, trekking, and skiing, and also enjoys sailing."}],"guestreviews":[{"GuestNames":"Jody D.","GuestLocation":"Sacramento, CA","GuestReview":"We had an amazing time in this starkly beautiful country. Our guides and group got along so well."},{"GuestNames":"Mary Ellen M.","GuestLocation":"Nanuet, NY","GuestReview":"Fantastic adventure in incomparable, inspiring, intriguing, impressive, incredible Iceland! What an exhilarating experience we had with the best ever knowledgeable, gallant, and gracious guides, fun and fantastic people, stunning scenery, amazing Auroras, with great food and weather too."},{"GuestNames":"Robert C.","GuestLocation":"Corrales, NM","GuestReview":"Certainly a trip for the memory books. Great fellow travelers and first class leadership."},{"GuestNames":"Ruth B.","GuestLocation":"Raleigh, NC","GuestReview":"This was an amazing trip! The scenery was gorgeous and we experienced so much. I rarely see snow anymore and it was a winter wonderland of snow for a week. We hiked in the blue ice glaciers, saw waterfalls and geysers, experienced a variety of spas, took a 5-hour hike up to a mountain ridge, and hiked to the top of a glacier. We also saw black beaches and got to use chains, crampons, snowshoes, and hiking poles, depending on the situation. The Sky Lagoon was a fun ending."},{"GuestNames":"Sue B.","GuestLocation":"Lighthouse Point, FL","GuestReview":"I can't say enough about how much fun this trip was. 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If you choose to bring your own hiking poles, they must be packed in your checked luggage as they are generally not permitted in carry-on bags.","Custom_Daypack":"<strong>DAYPACK:<\/strong> To carry extra layers, rain\/snow gear, water bottle, camera, and other items you want on the trail","Custom_Vaccination_Card":"","Custom_FB_Packing_Reminders_-_MISC_1":"","Custom_FB_Additional_Notes_-_MISC_1":"","Custom_FB_Additional_Notes_-_MISC_2":"","Custom_Arrival":"<strong>ARRIVING IN REYKJAV&Iacute;K<\/strong><br>Upon arrival in Reykjav&iacute;k, you can transfer quite easily to the city center on Reykjav&iacute;k Excursion's FlyBus, which meets all arriving flights outside of the terminal. Tickets are around $35 and can be purchased with a credit card at the Reykjavik Excursion FlyBus booth in the airport's arrivals hall. The FlyBus will take passengers to the main bus terminal where passengers will split up onto smaller busses and then transferred into the city center to stops very near all the major hotels in Reykjav&iacute;k. The transfer takes about one hour. The FlyBus can also provide a departure transfer to the airport from these same hotels if you are extending your time at the end of the trip. <br><br>Although taxis are available outside of the terminal, they are significantly more expensive than taking the FlyBus. <br><br><strong>MEETING PLACE<\/strong><br>Your Trip Leader will meet you at 9:00am on Day 1 in the lobby of the Berjaya Reykjav&iacute;k Marina Hotel. If you are staying elsewhere in central Reykjav&iacute;k the night before the trip, please make sure your WT office contact has been informed and you will be picked up at that location between 8:00-8:45am. All group members will receive a Welcome Letter from their Trip Leader a day or two before the trip begins with more information regarding pickup timing.","Custom_Arrival-_Meeting_Place":"<html><body style='font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;'><\/html>","Custom_Arrival_Transfer":"","Custom_Departure":"<strong>DEPARTING REYKJAV&Iacute;K<\/strong><br>A group airport transfer will be provided to Keflav&iacute;k International Airport in the afternoon of Day 8. If you are spending additional nights in Reykjav&iacute;k, please set up a FlyBus airport transfer pickup with your hotel's front desk the day before your departure to the airport.<br>","Custom_Extra_Services":"","Custom_Contact_Information_for_Friends_and_Family":"If friends or family wish to contact you during the trip, we encourage them to call, text, or email you directly. Another option is to reach you by calling the hotel (please see the enclosed Hotel List). If they are unable to reach you directly, please instruct them to call our office in Berkeley, California, and we will get a message to you as soon as possible. If they need to reach you outside of our office hours, we ask that they reach out to your Trip Leaders and Local Agent (contact information is listed below) and also leave a message with our Berkeley office, so that we can follow up with our team on the ground. <br><br>We recommend using <a href=\"https:\/\/www.whatsapp.com\/\">WhatsApp<\/a>, and suggest you download the free app and enter the local emergency contact number(s) in advance of your trip.","Custom_Outfitter_Contacts_Left":"<strong>\nULTIMA THULE<\/strong><br>\n(+354) 894-7798<br>\nultimathule@ultimathule.is<br>","Custom_Outfitter_Contacts_Right":"","Custom_name_slug":"iceland-winter-northern-lights-glaciers-tour","Custom_Meta_Description":"Hiking, snowshoeing, and searching for the northern lights in Iceland's otherworldly landscapes.","Custom_List_Description":"Hiking, snowshoeing, and searching for the northern lights in Iceland's otherworldly landscapes.","Custom_Redirect":"","Custom_PJ_-_Best_Months":"","Custom_After_Dates":"","Custom_Trip_Web_Note":"","Custom_Title_Tag":"Winter Adventures in Iceland Tour | Glaciers & Northern Lights","Custom_Before_Days":"","Custom_After_Days_Header_1":"","Custom_After_Days_Text_1":"","Custom_After_Days_Header_2":"","Custom_After_Days_Text_2":"","Custom_Choosing_Right_Trip_Office_Contact":"","Custom_About_WT_Expeditions":"","Custom_Arrival_-_Sales":"<!-- Generated by XStandard version 3.0.0.0 on 2023-04-19T14:40:07 --><p><strong>Suggested Airport:<\/strong> Keflav&iacute;k International Airport (KEF)<br \/><strong>Suggested Date &amp; Time:<\/strong> Anytime prior to Day 1<br \/><br \/><strong>Meeting Place:<\/strong> On the morning of Day 1 of the trip, your Trip Leader will pick you up at any hotel within the Reykjav&iacute;k city center and transfer you to the Icelandair Marina in time for the 9:00 am meeting time. Please let us know which hotel you will be staying in before the trip begins.<br \/><br \/>Upon arrival in Reykjav&iacute;k, you can transfer on your own quite easily to all city center hotels on Reykjav&iacute;k Excursion's FlyBus, which meets all arriving flights outside of the terminal. Tickets can be purchased either at the FlyBus booth in the arrivals hall with a credit card or online (<a href=\"https:\/\/www.re.is\/tour\/flybus\/\">www.flybus.is<\/a>). The Flybus will drop passengers directly to the major hotels in Reykjav&iacute;k. The transfer takes about 45 minutes. The FlyBus can also provide a departure transfer to the airport from these same hotels. Although taxis are available outside of the terminal, they are much more expensive than taking the FlyBus.<\/p>","Custom_Departure_-_Sales":"<!-- Generated by XStandard version 3.0.0.0 on 2023-04-19T14:41:04 --><p><strong>Suggested Airport:<\/strong> Keflav&iacute;k International Airport (KEF)<br \/><strong>Suggested Date &amp; Time:<\/strong> Day 8, anytime after 5:00 pm<br \/><br \/>A group airport transfer wil be provided to Keflav&iacute;k International Airport in the afternoon of Day 8.<\/p>","Custom_International_Air_Travel":"<!-- Generated by XStandard version 3.0.0.0 on 2023-04-19T14:41:33 --><p>You are responsible for making your own arrangements for flights to and from Iceland.<br \/><br \/>There are many online consolidators for booking travel, but for more personal help arranging air transport, you can contact Exito Travel at 1-800-655-4053 in the US or 1-800-670-2605 in Canada. They are very adept at putting flight itineraries together, to even the most far-flung places. More information can be found on Exito's website at <a href=\"https:\/\/exitotravel.com\/\">www.exitotravel.com<\/a>.<br \/><br \/>Depending on your routing, it is necessary to depart from the US one or possibly two days prior to Day 1 of the trip itinerary. The name on your airline ticket must match the name on your passport exactly, and your passport must be valid for at least six months after your date of return to the US.<br \/><br \/><strong>Please do not purchase your tickets until you are confirmed on the trip.<\/strong> Once your tickets have been purchased, please send us a copy of your airline schedule. It is your responsibility to ensure your flight times coordinate with the arrival and departure logistics for this trip.<\/p>","Custom_Extra_Hotel_Nights":"","Custom_Recommended_Hotels":"","Custom_A_and_D_Misc_-_Header_1":"<!-- Generated by XStandard version 3.0.0.0 on 2023-04-19T14:42:21 --><p>RECOMMENDED HOTELS<\/p>","Custom_A_and_D_Misc_-_Text_1":"<!-- Generated by XStandard version 3.0.0.0 on 2023-04-19T14:42:06 --><p><strong>Reykjav&iacute;k<\/strong><br \/>Storm Hotel: <a href=\"https:\/\/www.keahotels.is\/storm-hotel\">www.keahotels.is\/storm-hotel<\/a><br \/>Hotel Borg: <a href=\"https:\/\/www.keahotels.is\/hotel-borg\">www.keahotels.is\/hotel-borg<\/a><br \/>Berjaya Reykjav&iacute;k Marina Hotel: <a href=\"https:\/\/www.icelandhotelcollectionbyberjaya.com\/en\/hotels\/reykjavik\/reykjavik-marina\">bit.ly\/Berjaya-Reykjavik-Marina<\/a><br \/>Alda Hotel: <a href=\"https:\/\/www.icelandhotelcollectionbyberjaya.com\/en\/hotels\/reykjavik\/hotel-alda-reykjavik\">bit.ly\/Alda-Hotel-Reykjavik<\/a><\/p>","Custom_A_and_D_Misc_-_Header_2":"","Custom_A_and_D_Misc_-_Text_2":"","Custom_FAQ_-_Header_1":"","Custom_FAQ_-_Text_1":"","Custom_FAQ_-_Header_2":"","Custom_FAQ_-_Text_2":"","Custom_FAQ_-_Header_3":"","Custom_FAQ_-_Text_3":"","Custom_FAQ_-_Header_4":"","Custom_FAQ_-_Text_4":"","Custom_FAQ_-_Header_5":"","Custom_FAQ_-_Text_5":"","Custom_file_name":"winter-adventures-in-iceland","Custom_Passport":"A valid passport is required for your trip. Be sure to check the expiration date. Your passport must be valid for six months after your date of exit from Iceland. In addition, we recommend your passport have at least two completely blank visa pages for every country you will be visiting. It is very important that the blank pages say &#8220;Visas&#8221; at the top. The last few pages of your passport, which say &#8220;Amendments and Endorsements,&#8221; and the final page of your passport, which may not have a page number, are not considered to be legitimate visa pages. The service of adding pages for visas was discontinued as of January 1, 2016. You can request a new passport through <a href=\"http:\/\/travel.state.gov\/passport\">US Passport Services Office<\/a> or use a visa service agency, which can take care of your passport renewal and expedite the process, if needed. We recommend <a href=\"http:\/\/www.passportvisasexpress.com\/?affId=2120\">Passport Visas Express<\/a>. Be sure to allow sufficient time to acquire this before your trip. <br><br>It is very important to carry photocopies of your passport's photo page and any acquired visa pages for your trip (if applicable) in case your passport is lost or as an additional piece of identification, as well as two extra passport photos.","Custom_Visas_and_Entry_Notes":"US citizens do not need a visa for countries visited on this trip. If you are a citizen of any country other than the US, check with a local consulate for entry requirements.","Custom_Money":"The kr&oacute;na is the official currency of Iceland. Iceland is almost entirely cashless, but you can use your ATM card to withdraw cash if you need it or wish to trip your Trip Leaders in the local currency. The most convenient way to obtain kr&oacute;nur is to use your debit card at ATMs. To use an ATM internationally, you must have a four-digit PIN. Major credit cards are accepted in most shops in cities and larger towns. If you plan to use your credit cards, inform your credit card company before your departure that you will be using the card abroad.","Custom_Tipping":"Tipping is completely discretionary, but over the years, clients have asked us for tipping guidelines to reward guides for outstanding service. We suggest a tip of $145 USD or more per trip member for each of the Trip Leaders, preferably in local currency. The Trip Leaders take care of gratuities for hotel and restaurant staff, and for local guides and drivers.","Custom_Food":"Please reach out to us directly to discuss any dietary restrictions or concerns you may have. We can easily make arrangements for most diets, but please keep in mind that certain cultural differences or logistical limitations can make it difficult or at times impossible to accommodate all requests. With this in mind, please inform us at least eight weeks before your trip if you have a special diet, and any food allergies in particular, so we can do our best to meet your needs.","Custom_Communications":"<strong>Telephone: <\/strong>The international dialing code for Iceland is 354. Please contact your cell phone company for specific instructions for international use.<br><strong><br>Email &amp; Internet Access: <\/strong>Internet access is available at most of our lodges, but connections can be spotty.","Custom_Electricity":"Iceland has 230-volt current and uses Type F plugs. See <a href=\"https:\/\/www.power-plugs-sockets.com\/iceland\/\">here<\/a> for more information. ","Custom_Laundry":"","Custom_Ship_Notes":"","Custom_Inoculations":"No inoculations are required. However, it is easy to get a small cut, so a tetanus booster is strongly recommended (good for 10 years). If you take prescription medicines, be sure to bring enough for the duration of your trip.","Custom_International_Health":"","Custom_Malaria_Prevention":"","Custom_Staying_Healthy":"<html><body style='font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;'><\/html>","Custom_Getting_In_Shape":"We strongly urge you to train for your trip, as your enjoyment will be highly dependent on your level of fitness. The best training for a hike is to hike, especially over hills or rough terrain. Next best are running, swimming, bicycling, or other cardiovascular exercise. Stair climbing machines are excellent preparation for hiking uphill. Your feet should also be well prepared-make sure your hiking boots are sturdy, comfortable, and thoroughly broken-in.","Custom_Medical_Care":"","Custom_Altitude_Considerations":"","Custom_Covid-19":"","Custom_Reading_List":"Elevate your travel experience by delving into this curated collection of books tailored to your upcoming adventure. They will not only entertain but also provide invaluable insights into the history, culture, cuisine, wildlife, mountain trails, or even folklore of the places you're about to explore. Discover the perfect companions for your journey ahead by <a href=\"https:\/\/bookshop.org\/lists\/wilderness-travel-iceland\">following the link<\/a> or scanning the QR code.","Custom_Photography":"","Custom_Cultural_Considerations":"","Custom_Giving_Back":"","Custom_Enviromental_Concerns":"","Custom_Shopping_and_Souvenirs":"","Custom_Seasickness":"","Custom_Explore":"","Custom_Additional_Information":"","Custom_Essentials":"<ul><li>Air tickets (or E-tickets)<\/li><li>\nPassport<\/li><li>\nOne other picture ID, such as a driver's license<\/li><li>\nExpense money<\/li><\/ul>","Custom_Luggage":"<ul><li>Soft-sided suitcase, with small TSA-approved padlock<\/li><li>Daypack, large enough for a jacket or rain gear, water bottle, camera, and other items you want on the trail. Note: Very few daypacks or fanny packs are waterproof and any items that you need to keep dry should be put in a waterproof stuff sack inside your pack.<\/li><li>(Optional) Small roll-up bag to carry home purchases<\/li><li>Bring clothes you find most comfortable for walking. Quick-drying fabrics are the best for travel. Waterproof your hiking boots before your trip. You will want a change of clothes for evenings, but nothing dressy is necessary. Casual wear is fine, and coats and ties are not required.<\/li><\/ul> <br><br>Please pack everything in one piece of luggage, as this simplifies the transportation of luggage en route. Although airline service to Europe is generally reliable, it is best to wear or carry your hiking boots with you on your flights in the event that your luggage is lost or delayed. Likewise, don't pack valuables, such as travel documents, camera gear, or prescription medicines in your checked luggage.","Custom_Clothing":"Warmth and comfort are the main priorities. Weather conditions could vary greatly and can be cold. Dressing in layers is the best way to stay comfortable. The single two most important and essential items for this trip are: waterproof, breathable, good quality RAIN JACKET with a hood, and good quality, waterproof winter HIKING BOOTS to use for snowshoeing. It is a sensible precaution to wear or hand-carry your hiking boots on the plane. Nearly everything else can be replaced in case of baggage loss, but not a pair of well-fitted, fully broken-in hiking boots.<br><strong><br>Layers<\/strong><br>For your base layer, look for t-shirts and long underwear in synthetic fabrics. Synthetic fabrics (Polypropylene, Capilene, fleece) insulate and retain warmth even when they are wet, and they are far lighter than wool. They also have the added benefit of drying quickly. Avoid cotton because it is not a good insulator, especially as the first layer next to the skin. Once cotton gets wet from perspiration, it stays wet and keeps you cold. (Cotton is fine for city wear and touring.) As your insulating layer, we suggest a fleece jacket and pants, which are lightweight, warm, and breathable, or wool, which also keeps you warm even when wet. Finally, a good outer layer is necessary to block the wind and keep you dry in case of rain. Gore-Tex and equivalent fabrics are waterproof and breathable and are a practical choice. Your outer layer should be roomy enough to fit over other layers of clothing. <br><br>The clothing list below is provided as a guideline only:<br><ul><li>Gore-Tex rain\/wind shell jacket with hood, and Gore-Tex rain\/wind pants (preferably with leg zippers so that they can be taken off without removing your boots). Important: Whether you choose Gore-Tex, Supplex, or a similar fabric, make sure your jacket has a hood and sealed seams to prevent leaking.<\/li><li>Warm jacket (down or heavyweight fleece)<\/li><li>Light insulated jacket (down or Thinsulate) for our rest stops and picnics<\/li><li>Fleece sweater or fleece vest for layering<\/li><li>Polypropylene or Capilene long underwear, bottoms and tops<\/li><li>Long-sleeved shirt. Wool, fleece, or quick-drying &#8220;travel&#8221; fabrics like nylon.<\/li><li>T-shirts<\/li><li>Hiking pants, one or two pairs. Fleece pants or synthetic hiking pants are a practical choice. Most of the time we will be snowshoe-hiking wearing these types of pants. They should be warm, have wind resistance, and dry quickly<\/li><li>Fleece hat for warmth. Your hat should cover your ears. The hood of your waterproof jacket should be able to go over this hat completely and zip up around your face.<\/li><li>Hand protection. Very important! Bring several pairs of gloves, at least one insulated waterproof pair, and a lighter wind-stopping pair. Insulated mittens are OK, too, for those with cold-sensitive hands.<\/li><li>Waterproof winter hiking boots designed for on- and off-trail hiking. They must be above the ankles, with good support.<\/li><li>Comfortable shoes for hotels<\/li><li>Hiking socks. Tall, thick pairs (Thorlo-type) are good as well as synthetic liner socks.<\/li><li>Gaiters. Important and indispensable for keeping snow and moisture out of your boots.<\/li><li>Sleepwear (long underwear can double)<\/li><li>Bathing suit (for hot tubs and thermal pools during the trip)<\/li><li>Casual city\/hotel attire<\/li><\/ul>","Custom_Hiking_Boots":"","Custom_Equipment":"<ul><li><strong>Hiking Poles are provided.<\/strong> Most of our hikes are on undefined, steep trails or through rough areas, and the terrain may be wet. Hiking with a collapsible hiking pole, such as those by Leki and REI, helps to distribute your body weight, takes pressure off your knees, and improves your balance. Some hikers like using one pole and others hike with two poles.<\/li><li>Plug adapter for appliance use. Most newer appliances don't need a voltage converter.<br><\/li><li>Waterproof stuff sack to carry inside your daypack<\/li><li>Waterproofing material for leather boots (Sno-seal or a silicon product)<\/li><li>Two reusable water bottles, 1 qt. capacity. Collapsible water bottles are a practical choice and don't take up much space in your daypack when they're empty.<\/li><li>Small, quick-drying towel <\/li><li>Good quality sunglasses with case. A spare pair of sunglasses is a good idea should your first pair be broken or lost.<\/li><li>Plastic bags to compartmentalize items in duffel, Ziploc-style bags to carry small items during the day<\/li><\/ul>","Custom_Personal_First_Aid":"Every trip member should bring a small kit for personal use. Your own experience will influence your choices. <br><ul><li>Sunscreen SPF 30 or higher and lip balm with sunscreen. We recommend mineral-based sunscreens with zinc oxide or titanium dioxide because they do not contain harsh chemicals that are harmful to the environment. Brands such as Honest Company, Badger, and Alba Botanica are found in most sporting goods stores and drugstores.<\/li><li>Aspirin, ibuprofen, or Tylenol for muscle pain or headaches, Tylenol PM for sleep<\/li><li>Blister kit. Look for long-lasting gel-type bandages that you can apply directly on blisters, such as Band-Aid Advanced Healing Bandages or Curad Gel Multi-Day Bandages. &#8220;Liquid band-aids,&#8221; such as New-Skin, are useful because they dry rapidly to form a tough protective cover over a blister.<\/li><li>Prescription medications properly labeled<\/li><li>Spare contact lenses or spare prescription glasses<\/li><li>Personal toiletries<\/li><\/ul>","Custom_Optional_Items":"<ul><li>Additional long underwear if you tend to get cold<\/li><li>Laundry soap for hand-washing clothes<\/li><li>Camera, spare batteries<\/li><li>Reading\/writing material<\/li><li>Lightweight flip-flops or other sandals for hot tubs and thermal pools<\/li><li>Money belt or neck pouch. Always carry your passport, credit cards, and cash with you in a money belt or neck pouch tucked down inside your shirt or blouse.<\/li><li>Washcloth, if you like to use one (most European hotels do not provide them)<\/li><\/ul>","Custom_Prohibited_Items":"","Custom_When_to_Go":"","Custom_Children":"","Custom_Tag_Line":"Hike, Snowshoe, and Look for the Northern Lights","Custom_Lodging":"7 nights hotels","Custom_Meals":"All meals included","Custom_Difficulty":"Moderate to steep snowshoeing and hiking, 3-7 hours a day","Custom_Currency_Exchange_Rate":"","Custom_Fuel_Surcharge":"","Custom_Signing_Up_For_a_Trip_-_Email":"","Custom_Optional_Hotel_Upgrades_-_This_Year":"","Custom_Optional_Hotel_Upgrades_-_Next_Year":"","Custom_Trip_Cost_Misc_Header":"","Custom_Trip_Cost_Misc_Text":"","Custom_What_the_Trip_is_Like":"<p>This trip is rated <strong>Level 3+, Moderate to Strenuous,<\/strong> according to our trip grading system. It features daily hiking and snowshoeing (3-7 hours a day) and hotel accommodations throughout.<div><br><\/div><div>Due to its location in the path of the North Atlantic Current, Iceland&#39;s winter weather is not as severe as the latitude might suggest, but is also wildly variable on a daily basis. As snow cover comes and goes throughout the winter months, we have designed the trip to include either hiking or snowshoeing depending on current conditions. While your Trip Leaders will make every effort to do all of the activities described in the itinerary, they have the group&#39;s safety as their highest priority and may alter the itinerary to make the best of weather conditions during your trip.<\/p>","Custom_Terrain":"<meta charset=\"utf-8\"\/><body><p>No previous experience is required for snowshoeing; it is just like hiking. Snowshoes will be provided, and they strap right onto your hiking boots. Our snowshoe-hikes can be strenuous as we will be traveling across snowfields with varying conditions, from soft powder to snow with a light crust of ice. If there is no snow, we will be hiking on varied terrain, from packed dirt to lava fields. Hiking poles are provided. There is no extreme elevation change in our daily outings, but we will be ascending up to ridges &mdash; and descending back down! The conditions will dictate our exact route each day, as we choose the best route for views and an experience of the Icelandic landscape.<\/p><\/body>","Custom_Getting_in_Shape":"<!-- Generated by XStandard version 3.0.0.0 on 2023-06-09T19:22:06 --><p>For your own enjoyment, we recommend you make a special effort to be in good physical condition. Daily brisk walking and\/or regular hiking (or using a stair-climbing machine at your gym) are excellent preparatory exercises.<\/p>","Custom_Weather":"<!-- Generated by XStandard version 3.0.0.0 on 2023-06-09T19:24:05 --><p>Iceland&apos;s weather is windy, wet, and changeable: it&apos;s said that you can encounter four seasons in a day here. The conditions will dictate our exact schedule each day, as we choose the best route for views and an experience of the Icelandic landscape&mdash;you should be prepared to be flexible, as weather has the final say in determining our itinerary.&nbsp;Though it is located just below the Arctic Circle, Iceland is usually warmer than other places at this latitude due to the moderating influence of the Gulf Stream. These ocean currents interact with cold air from the north and often bring precipitation. Snow cover comes and goes throughout the winter months.<\/p><p>We have designed the trip to include either hiking or snowshoeing, depending on whether there is snow cover. Your Trip Leaders have the group&apos;s safety as their highest priority, and will alter the itinerary as needed depending on weather conditions. They will make every effort to do all of the activities described in the itinerary, however you may be on snowshoes or in hiking boots, and the order of the trip may be changed in order to make the best of the weather conditions.<\/p><p>Sturdy, warm, and well-broken-in hiking boots are essential, and they must be full hiking boots that support your ankles (no running shoes or below-ankle hiking shoes). Gaiters are great for protecting your pant legs from getting wet, and hiking poles are highly recommended. A Gore-Tex jacket (with a hood) and rain pants are essential, as well as fleece and Capilene layers to keep you warm. A full packing list will be sent with your sign-up packet.<\/p>","Custom_Accommodations":"","Custom_Cuisine":"","Custom_Transportation":"<!-- Generated by XStandard version 3.0.0.0 on 2023-06-09T19:24:31 --><p>We drive to a starting point for our hiking and snowshoeing, and our vehicle picks us up at the end of the hike to drive us to our night's lodging. Some days combine sightseeing at waterfalls and cultural sites with hiking\/snowshoeing. Our longest drive will be to H&uacute;safell on Day 5 and back on Day 7, approximately 3 hours each way, but road conditions can change that timing. The weather has the final say in Iceland! On other days we have as little as 10 minutes to our trailhead, and even hike right out from our hotel on Day 4.<\/p>","Custom_What_the_Trip_is_Like_-_Header_1":"<!-- Generated by XStandard version 3.0.0.0 on 2023-06-09T19:24:54 --><p>Accommodations &amp; Cuisine<\/p>","Custom_What_the_Trip_is_Like_-_Text_1":"<!-- Generated by XStandard version 3.0.0.0 on 2023-06-09T19:25:08 --><p>Our nights will be spent at comfortable hotels and inns. Please keep in mind that on this trip we are crossing rural Iceland. The rooms in our hotels and inns will not always conform to international hotel standards and sizes, and d&eacute;cor can be 'Scandinavian spare'. Our lunches will most often be packed lunches that we bring along with us on the trail, with one lunch inside a greenhouse as we head to Nesvellir. Please note that in Europe, the dinner hour is considerably later than what it is in the U.S. We do our best to secure early reservations for our groups, but most often the evening meal will be at 7:30 pm.<\/p>","Custom_What_the_Trip_is_Like_-_Header_2":"<!-- Generated by XStandard version 3.0.0.0 on 2023-06-09T19:22:55 --><p>Northern Lights<\/p>","Custom_What_the_Trip_is_Like_-_Text_2":"<!-- Generated by XStandard version 3.0.0.0 on 2023-06-09T19:23:06 --><p>The aurora borealis appear intermittently in the night skies from October through March. Seeing the aurora is contingent on many factors including solar storms, Earth's shifting magnetic field, cloud cover, and precipitation. We have timed the trip carefully, and designed it to get you to the places in the country with the very best possibility of seeing the northern lights. Our final base at Hotel H&uacute;safell, in particular, is considered one of the best spots in Iceland for watching the northern lights. It is important to remember that the northern lights are a natural phenomenon dependent on natural forces outside of our control and are not guaranteed. We are, however, pleased to say that the majority of our groups have managed to see the aurora in some form. Additionally, we have packed the trip with great winter activities -- this trip is much more than a northern lights trip!<\/p>","Custom_Trip_Level_Note_1":"","Custom_Trip_Level_Note_2":"","System_Choosing_the_Right_Trip":"<p>Adventure travel often involves exotic destinations, unusual levels of physical exertion, or activities you may not have participated in previously. We work hard to help you choose the right trip for you, paying attention to your individual interests, abilities, and needs. If you have questions about the level of comfort or any of the activities described in this itinerary, please call Wilderness Travel at 1-800-368-2794 or email us at <a href=\"mailto:\/\/info@wildernesstravel.com\">info@wildernesstravel.com<\/a>.<\/p>","System_References":"<p>We&rsquo;d be happy to put you in touch with a past client that has traveled with us.<\/p>","System_Visit_Our_Website":"<p>At <a href=\"https:\/\/www.wildernesstravel.com\/\">www.wildernesstravel.com<\/a>, you can book your trip online or find out about added departures, last-minute deals, and one-time Limited Edition adventures that aren&rsquo;t listed in our catalog. You can also access our complete library of detailed itineraries filled with enticing photos and videos, read bios of our Trip Leaders, find descriptions of trip accommodations, and check real-time availability of any trips that interest you.<\/p>","System_Helpful_Links":"<!-- Generated by XStandard version 3.0.0.0 on 2023-01-27T07:52:03 --><p>Wilderness Travel has compiled a list of useful websites for travelers. Find the Toucan Club tab on the home page of our website and choose Helpful Links: <a href=\"http:\/\/www.wildernesstravel.com\/ toucan\/links\">www.wildernesstravel.com\/ toucan\/links<\/a>.<\/p>","System_About_New_Trips":"This is a new adventure and one that we are particularly excited about offering. However, as with all new departures, flexibility and a spirit of adventure are always appreciated! Activities are described in the itinerary but they can vary, sometimes considerably, depending on weather conditions, the group, and other factors.","System_About_Private_Journeys":"<p>Wilderness Travel Private Journeys are designed for people who want to travel with their own small private group, but who still want to experience the same superb itinerary design, great accommodations, and signature quality of Wilderness Travel's escorted group trips. These Private Journeys allow you to choose your own dates and your traveling companions&mdash;and enjoy the WT touch on all aspects of the journey.<\/p>","System_Limited_Edition_Adventures":"This is a Limited Edition adventure&mdash;which means a unique trip we've never run before or offer only every few years. Led by our most experienced Trip Leaders, these journeys often take place in remote destinations with only the most basic infrastructure for tourism. If you see a Limited Edition trip scheduled for this year, now is the time to sign up, as spaces fill very early and the trip may not be back for a while! Planned daily activities and actual timings may vary due to local conditions or the discretion of your Trip Leader&mdash;it is important to bring your spirit of adventure for these special exploratory journeys!","System_Social_Media":"<!-- Generated by XStandard version 3.0.0.0 on 2023-03-29T11:33:43 --><p><strong>SOCIAL MEDIA:<\/strong> We invite you to share your adventure with us on social media. Tag @wildernesstravel and we may even feature your content on our pages!<\/p>","System_If_You_Miss_Your_Flight":"<p><strong>IF YOU MISS YOUR FLIGHT<\/strong><br>If you miss your flight or are otherwise delayed, contact our Wilderness Travel office, as well as our local partners, with your new flight information. Refer to the Emergency Contact Information listed in this Final Bulletin.<\/p>","System_Valid_Passport":"<!-- Generated by XStandard version 3.0.0.0 on 2023-06-16T10:26:21 --><p><strong>VALID PASSPORT:<\/strong> Check that your passport is valid for at least six months from the last day of your trip, and that you have at least two blank pages for any necessary visa or entry and exit stamps.<\/p>","System_Insurance_Policy":"<p><strong>INSURANCE POLICY:<\/strong> If you have purchased the Travelex Travel Protection Plan, you should have received an email confirmation of your policy. Please bring a digital or printed copy of this policy with you. If you cannot find your email confirmation, please contact Travelex's Customer Solutions team at 844-877-1885 or e-mail customersolutions@travelexinsurance.com. If you have not purchased Travelex insurance already, you have the option to do so up to 24 hours prior to your departure.<\/p>","System_Covid-19_Travel_Requirements":"<p><strong>PRE-DEPARTURE INFORMATION<\/strong><strong>: <\/strong>Please review your Pre-Departure Information booklet included in this packet for important information regarding Wilderness Travel's COVID-19 protocols, packing lists, recommended reading, tipping, etc.<\/p>","System_Wilderness_Travel_Office":"<!-- Generated by XStandard version 3.0.0.0 on 2023-03-29T11:38:07 --><p>Our office in Berkeley, California can be reached at 510-558-2488, or by email at info@wildernesstravel.com. We are available during regular business hours (M-F, 8:30 am-5:00 pm, PST). <\/p>","System_ECI_Travel_Insurance":"<!-- Generated by XStandard version 3.0.0.0 on 2023-03-29T11:38:31 --><p>If you have purchased the Travelex Travel Protection Plan through Wilderness Travel, please remember to bring your Confirmation of Coverages (COC) with you on the trip, including your Plan Number and important emergency contact information.<\/p><p>If you've purchased a travel protection plan on your own, we recommend that you bring a copy of your policy, including all coverages, with you on your trip.<\/p>","System_Face_Masks_and_Hand_Sanitizer":"","System_DidNotPurchase_Insurance":"<!-- Generated by XStandard version 3.0.0.0 on 2023-02-28T12:27:44 --><p>Travel Insurance: We recommend that you purchase travel insurance for this trip. For your convenience, we offer Travelex travel protection. Please let us know if you would like us to add the Travelex Travel Protection Plan to this final invoice. You can learn more about the policy on our <a href=\"https:\/\/www.wildernesstravel.com\/toucan\/travel-insurance\">website<\/a>.<\/p>","System_Purchased_Insurance":"Please remember to bring a copy of your Travelex Confirmation of Coverage and State Specific Policy with you on your trip. You should have received an email directly from Travelex with these documents. If you need this email to be re-sent, please contact Travelex's Customer Solutions team at 844-877-1885 or e-mail customersolutions@travelexinsurance.com. <br><br><br>","System_COVID-19":"The Public Health Emergency for COVID-19 declared by the World Health Organization and the US Department of Health and Human Services expired in 2023. As of March 2024, we no longer require guests who exhibit cold or flu symptoms to test for COVID-19. Guests who test positive for COVID-19 will be required to follow local health protocols, wear a mask in group vehicles and during indoor activities for the remainder of the trip, and may be asked to dine separately. Any travel companion sharing a room with them will also be required to wear a mask at all times in the shared group vehicles for the remainder of the trip.<br><br>We encourage all travelers to actively monitor their own well-being and to use common-sense preventative measures such as regular handwashing (or use of hand sanitizer) and\/or wearing a face mask. If you are feeling sick, we encourage you to self-isolate and\/or wear a mask to protect your fellow travelers. Guests may be required to wear a mask if the Trip Leader believes the situation warrants it.<br><br>Leading up to the trip, we encourage you to do everything possible to stay healthy, including avoiding close contact with anyone displaying cold or flu symptoms and washing your hands often. As always, by traveling with Wilderness Travel, guests agree to be accountable for their own well-being. If you are worried about a fellow traveler's cold or flu-like symptoms, you may opt to wear a mask or distance yourself as needed. It's important to remember that there are inherent risks associated with travel and group settings.<br><br>These protocols will be reviewed and adjusted as guidance evolves. <br><br>","System_Photography":"<strong>Camera Recommendations<\/strong><br>With the many advances in digital technology, a simple compact digital camera or even your smartphone is capable of taking pictures suitable for the needs of most people. For higher quality images and the ability to use long lenses for closer wildlife pictures, a DSLR camera is well worthwhile, though heavier. Most digital cameras and phones have good video options, but you may want to consider a GoPro for a lightweight, waterproof option. Always practice ahead of time with new equipment and bring your manual with you. You may want to consider renting camera equipment for your trip from places such as <a href=\"https:\/\/www.lensrentals.com\/\">lensrentals.com<\/a>. This is an especially good idea for renting large zoom lenses that you may need for just one trip. Adding their extra insurance fee to cover expensive equipment is recommended. <br><strong><br>Camera Accessories<\/strong><br>We recommend bringing at least two large capacity memory cards or a small digital storage unit (or tablet) to back up your photos, freeing space on your memory cards. Don't forget to bring a battery charger and a backup battery so one is always charged and ready to use. For trips where you may be away from power sources for multiple days, consider looking into a solar-powered battery charger or buying additional backup batteries, and check that you have the appropriate adapter for the electrical outlets in your destination.<br><strong><br>Sharing Your Images<\/strong><br>We would love for you to share photos from your trip, and with your permission, may even use your photos in our marketing materials or on our photo blog. We request that you send us a small sample of your best images. Please email your photos to wtphotoblog@gmail.com or tag us @WildernessTravel on social media.<br><strong><br>Photography Etiquette<\/strong><br>When taking pictures of local people, be aware of cultural considerations. Approaching people with a warm smile and using polite gestures or simple phrases to ask permission to photograph them usually works well. It is always recommended to engage people in conversation before asking to photograph them, but if people do not wish to have their photo taken, please honor their requests. We urge travelers to avoid giving money in exchange for photo opportunities, which makes it harder for future travelers to have a meaningful personal interaction with local people. Please always heed your Trip Leader's guidelines for what is appropriate. ","System_Gear_Store":"To help you prepare for your next WT adventure, we've put together a great collection of top brands including Patagonia, Outdoor Research, Eagle Creek, and more at our WT Gear Store (<a href=\"https:\/\/wildernesstravel.newheadings.com\/\">wildernesstravel.newheadings.com<\/a>).","System_Questions?":"<p>Our Area Specialists are your single point of contact and would be happy to answer any questions about your trip!<br>800.368.2794 | 510.558.2488<\/p>","System_Pricing_Detail-Small_Group_Adventure":" <br><br>To offer the lowest possible cost, our trips are priced according to the number of participants on the trip. All costs are per person, based on double occupancy. If you wish to have a single room, you must pay the single supplement fee. Please note that Wilderness Travel staff, or guests of Wilderness Travel such as travel writers, photographers, or leaders-in-training, are not included in the tier pricing count.","System_Travel_Insurance":"<!-- Generated by XStandard version 3.0.0.0 on 2023-01-27T07:58:05 --><p>We highly recommend you purchase travel insurance. You can take advantage of a comprehensive Travel Protection Plan designed for Wilderness Travel by Travelex, or purchase other insurance on your own. See our website for details: <a href=\"http:\/\/www.wildernesstravel.com\/insurance\">www.wildernesstravel.com\/insurance<\/a><\/p>","System_Make_it_Your_Trip":"<!-- Generated by XStandard version 3.0.0.0 on 2023-03-29T11:44:18 --><p>The prices above are for the ready-to-book adventure outlined in this Detailed Itinerary, a popular option that has been handcrafted by our Area Specialists to include the best of every destination. While many travelers choose to book this tour as is, our Area Specialists are also happy to work with you to customize this Private Journey to suit your specific interests and style of travel. We can arrange for longer or shorter stays, offer hotel upgrades (see below for sample costs), or add an extension to additional places of interest. We can even add special activities or customize excursions depending on your interests. We invite you to contact us to discuss your options!<\/p>","System_Signing_up_for_a_Trip":"<!-- Generated by XStandard version 3.0.0.0 on 2023-03-29T11:44:42 --><p>Early reservations are recommended since accommodations often sell out far in advance. Please call 1-800-368-2794 and ask for our [Africa Manager] or email us at [africa@ wildernesstravel.com] with any questions that you may have about this trip. To reserve your Private Journey, we will need to know your preferred dates of travel. We will then check availability and send you a proposed itinerary with exact pricing for your adventure. We can typically hold a provisional booking for one week. At that time, we must collect your initial deposit or accommodations will be released. We accept Visa, Mastercard, or American Express card. Upon receipt of your deposit, we will send you a Welcome Packet that includes a letter of confirmation, Detailed Itinerary, Trip Application, Medical Form, and Pre-Departure Information Booklet with information to help you prepare for your adventure. Please see our Cancellations and Transfer Fee Schedule for specific payment information.<\/p>","System_Trip_Leaders":"<p>Wilderness Travel Trip Leaders have a passion and a joy for creating an unforgettable journey. We are extremely proud of them and the incredible travel experiences they make possible. For more information, including client comments about them and which specific trips they will be leading, please visit <a href=\"https:\/\/www.wildernesstravel.com\/leaders\/\">wildernesstravel.com\/leaders<\/a>.<\/p>"},"terms":{"PaymentSchedule":"<p>$600 due at time of reservation <br \/>90 days prior to departure: Balance<\/p>","CancelSchedule":"<p>Up to 91 days prior to departure: No Charge!<br>61-90 days prior to departure: 25% of trip cost<br>46-60 days prior to departure: 50% of trip cost<br>45 days or less: 100% of trip cost<br><\/p>"}}