Details
Frequently Asked Questions
Please read our general
FAQs, where you can find essential information that applies to all of our programs.
Resources to Learn & Teach about Iceland
Visit our
recommended reading page to see the list of books GEEO recommends reading before your program (this is not required reading). We also have
lesson plans and
Pinterest boards that may be useful for you as you learn about your destination and prepare to bring lessons back to your classroom.
Terms and Conditions
It is very important to review our
Terms and Conditions before signing up for a GEEO program.
GEEO Program Confirmation Process
We require a minimum of 6 participants for most GEEO programs. We officially confirm that a program will run once at least 8 people have signed up, which provides a margin for individual cancellations. Nearly all GEEO programs ultimately meet this enrollment quota, and in the rare event that a program does not meet the minimum requirement and GEEO cancels the program, we will work with you to find a suitable alternative or provide a refund of your deposit if you prefer. We encourage you to sign up for any program that interests you, and we will notify the entire group once 6 people are booked and again once 8 people are booked. We always emphasize the importance of exercising caution when making non-refundable travel arrangements, especially given the unpredictable nature of travel. For example, we typically recommend booking flights with flexible change/cancellation policies.
Cancellation Policy
All cancellations must be submitted to GEEO in writing by emailing your request for cancellation to
travel@geeo.org. If you do not receive a confirmation that we have received your cancellation request, please call us at 1-877-600-0105.
- If you cancel 60 days or more prior to the start of your program, all your program fee payments will be refunded excluding your $350 deposit, which is kept on file for future use and never expires.
- If you cancel between 30 and 59 days prior to the start of your program, you will receive a 50% refund and your deposit will be kept on file for future use and will never expire.
- If you cancel within 30 days prior to the start of your program, you will receive no refund, but your deposit will be kept on file for future use and will never expire.
Trip Notes
- NORTHERN LIGHTS: The Northern Lights are a natural phenomenon, and sightings will be dependent on weather conditions. We cannot guarantee that travelers booked on this tour will experience the Northern Lights.
- WEATHER: The landscape of Iceland is unique and unlike most things you've seen. So is the weather. It is unpredictable and prone to fast changes, so be prepared to experience a variety of conditions during your time in Iceland. It's not uncommon to experience rain, sun, wind, and snow all in the same visit, so please pack accordingly. Make sure you pack rain pants and a good waterproof raincoat!
- WATERPROOF: Our packing list suggests a waterproof raincoat, pants and shoes. Previous participants have stressed that waterproof items are much better than water-resistant items for this trip.
- BLUE LAGOON: If you wish to visit the Blue Lagoon, please know that this activity must be done before or after your tour. As this activity is very popular and limits admission, we recommend booking it online well in advance.
Group Leader Description
All GEEO/G Adventures group trips are accompanied by one of G Adventure’s group leaders, which they refer to as Chief Experience Officers (CEOs). The aim of the group leader is to take the hassle out of your travels and to help you have the best trip possible. They will provide information on the places you are traveling through, offer suggestions for things to do and see, recommend great local eating venues, and introduce you to our local friends. Our itineraries often have plenty of free time to explore on your own.
While not being guides in the traditional sense, you can expect them to have a broad general knowledge of the countries visited on the trip, including historical, cultural, religious, and social aspects. We also use local guides where we think more specific knowledge will add to the enjoyment of the places we are visiting – we think it’s the best of both worlds.
Fitness Level
This trip includes light walking and optional moderate hiking that is suitable for most fitness levels.
Joining Instructions
Day 1 is an arrival day, and no activities have been planned. Upon arrival to the city on Day 1, or earlier if you have booked pre-accommodation with us, please make your way to the joining hotel. Please note: Check-in time will be in the afternoon. Once you arrive at the hotel, look for a note at reception from your tour leader. This note will give the details of your Welcome Meeting on Day 1, usually between 6:00 p.m. and 7:00 p.m., during which you will get a chance to meet your tour leader and other travelers, as well as learn more about how the tour will run. If you don’t see a note, please ask reception for details. If you miss the Welcome Meeting, your tour leader will leave a note at reception for you with any information you may need and with instructions for the next morning.
In the exit hall of the airport, you will see counters for Airport Direct and Flybus shuttles. These cost between approx. 4,000 ISK and 7,000 ISK, depending on what type of ticket you buy. Please note that the cheaper, larger shuttle bus transfers will drive you to a bus terminal outside Reykjavik first, where you transfer to smaller busses to be delivered to your hotel.
Alternatively, you can get a taxi located just outside the arrivals exit. The taxi ride from the airport to the city center generally costs between $100-200 USD.
Emergency Contacts
Should you need to contact G Adventures during a situation of dire need, it is best to first call their local G Adventures office. If for any reason you do not receive an immediate answer, please leave a detailed message and contact information so they may return your call and assist you as soon as possible.
EMERGENCY CONTACT NUMBERS
G Adventures Berlin office: +44 185 837 8000
If you are unable for any reason to contact the local office, please call the numbers listed below, which will connect you directly with the 24-hour Sales team, who will happily assist you.
Toll-free, from calls within North America only: 1 888 800 4100
Calls from within UK: 0844 272 0000
Outside North America and the UK: +1 416 260 0999
For absolute emergencies after office hours please contact +44 7817 262559
If for any reason you do not receive an immediate answer, please leave a detailed message and contact information, and your call will be returned as soon as possible.
Packing List
Please
read this article on GEEO’s blog for our staff’s suggestions on the best gear to pack for your upcoming travels. You must be prepared to carry your own bags and be comfortable carrying them up and down stairs, on and off transportation, and to hotels. As a rule, we try not to have to walk more than 15-20 minutes with your bags, which is why we recommend keeping the weight of your bags between 22-30 lb. Most travelers carry a backpack or rolling bag of small to medium size. No XXL bags please! A daypack is also essential for carrying everyday items. Space is limited on transportation, so there is a limit of one main piece of luggage per person plus a daypack per person.
Suggested Checklist
- Raincoat or waterproof shell jacket
- Winter coat
- Personal clothing for cold weather in the high 20's- low 40's F – we recommend packing 6 outfits so you don't have to do laundry
- Warm gloves, hat, scarf
- Waterproof pants
- Long john (thermal underwear) tops and bottoms for layering
- Sturdy walking, hiking, or running shoes. Ideally waterproof
- Daypack
- Sunblock
- Sunglasses
- Sun hat
- Water bottle
- Watch or alarm clock
- Toiletries – Important: Some hotels will not provide soap and shampoo
- Camera
- Insect repellent
- First-aid kit, including a lip salve, Aspirin, bandaids, anti-histamine, Dramamine, Imodium or similar tablets for mild cases of diarrhea, electrolyte powder, extra prescription drugs you may be taking
Optional Checklist
- Swimsuit
- Travel pillow
- Money belt
- Phone/tablet for internet – most hotels have WiFi
- Chargers for electronics as well as converters/adapters, if needed
- AirTags or Tile trackers
- Packing cubes
- Earplugs
- Snacks – packing a few granola bars is a good idea; you can buy snacks when you get there too, so don't go crazy here
- Ziplock bags
- Reading/writing material
- Hand sanitizer/baby wipes
- Gloves for when you are on the glacier
Document Checklist
- Passport (with photocopies)
- Travel insurance (with photocopies)
- Airline tickets (with photocopies)
- EUR/USD cash
- Credit or debit card (see personal spending money)
- G Adventures vouchers, pre-departure information, and dossier
- Any entry visas or vaccination certificates required
- GEEO Classroom action plans for your group – this is sent 10-30 days before departure
Laundry
Laundry facilities are offered by some of our hotels for a charge. You can also use a local laundromat, if necessary. We recommend packing enough clothes so you don't have to do laundry.
Passports and Visas
All GEEO programs require the participant to have a valid passport. Please see our general
FAQ for information on obtaining a passport. As with all of our trips, we try to provide the most accurate information we can, but governments sometimes change visa rules. It is your responsibility to double check the information we provide below by searching
here.
U.S. citizens do not need a visa to travel to Iceland. Non-American participants should check with their government and local Icelandic Embassy to find out if they need a visa.
Money Exchange
The local currency in Iceland is the Icelandic krona (ISK). As currency exchange rates fluctuate, we ask that you refer to the following website for daily exchange rates: www.xe.com.
We recommend that you obtain cash from ATMs while traveling; they will dispense the local currency. We do, however, recommend that you bring at least $200 USD in cash for emergency use or in case you have trouble with the ATMs. Major credit cards are accepted in most shops, but you may be charged an international transaction fee; ask your financial institution about their international fees. Please note that if you are carrying U.S. dollars, the bills should be in good condition (i.e., not torn, wrinkled, or marked on in any way) and dated recently.
Tipping
It is customary to leave a small tip for service providers, such as waiters, if you are pleased with the service. Tipping is an expected, though not compulsory, component of this program and an expression of satisfaction with the people who assist you on your trip. Although it may not be customary to you, it is of considerable significance to the people who will take care of you during your travels.
There will be opportunities during the trip to tip your local guides or drivers. You may do this individually, or your tour leader may offer to collect the money and give a tip on behalf of the group. Ask your tour leader for specific recommendations based on the circumstances and expectations. Also, at the end of your program, if you felt your G Adventures tour leader did an outstanding job, a tip would be appreciated. Tipping amounts are entirely your personal preference, but as a guideline:
- Service providers/Waiters: 10% of the bill
- Local guides and drivers: €3-5 EUR (450-750 ISK) per person per day
- Tour Guide (CEO): €30-40 EUR (4,500-6,000 ISK) per person per week
Flights
We find the best prices for flights are often available around 90 days before departure, but of course this varies greatly from route to route and year to year.
You should wait until this trip is confirmed before you book non-refundable flights. GEEO and G Adventures bear no responsibility for any flights purchased before the trip is confirmed.
This program begins and ends in Reykjavík. Please double-check our itinerary for the date by which you must arrive in Reykjavík. You may want to arrive in Iceland one or more days early in case you have flight disruptions. You can arrive at any time you choose, but try to make it in time for our 6:00 p.m. Welcome Meeting on Day 1. You can depart from Reykjavík any time on the final day of the program, or stay later to see more of the city.
Plugs and Converters
There are two components to provide external power to your device: adapters and transformers (also called electrical converters). The adapter is for your device's plug, adapting the prongs on a standard U.S. two- to three-pronged power cord to fit the local outlets. The transformer/converter changes the local voltage to the voltage used in the U.S.
Iceland has type C outlets for two circular prongs, and the voltage is 220-240V. (Standard U.S. electrical outlets are 120V.) Most new devices, including phones and laptops, are made to work with the different voltage rates, but some devices, like hair dryers, may only work on the U.S. standard of 120V. Check your device's plug or manual to see what voltage range it requires. Most transformer blocks will have an “Input” line that defines its voltage capacity; for example, “Input: 100-240V” means that it will work with voltages between 100V to 240V. If your device can’t handle the higher voltage, you’ll need to purchase a transformer/converter. You can find world transformers/converters online or at many retail stores in the travel section.
Expectations
Before you decide to travel with GEEO, it is important that you read all of the information about the program you are considering. Remember, our programs are quite adventurous.
- The purpose of the accommodation is to provide a safe, well-located place for you to sleep. Sometimes you will be pleasantly surprised, but do not expect luxury as we are trying to keep these trips as inexpensive as possible.
- You must be able to easily carry or roll your luggage, so do not over-pack.
- Please make sure you have thoroughly read the itinerary and can handle the group activities, which sometimes include day hikes with your daypacks.
- We recommend always carrying snacks with you. Meals can sometimes be far apart.
- Please make sure you understand the role of your tour leader on this trip as they are not the traditional “guide” you may be expecting. While our trips are educational, they aren’t study/lecture trips. We want you to learn through exploring, and much of your experience will be based on how active you choose to be in acquiring knowledge and interacting with locals.
Hopefully this is the kind of adventure you are interested in!
Weather and Geographic Conditions
Iceland in March is still winter, with average temperatures ranging from -1°C to 4°C (30°F to 39°F). It can be cold, windy, and wet, with occasional snowstorms. Visitors should dress warmly and bring waterproof or water-resistant clothing.
In March, Iceland experiences around 12-13 hours of daylight, with sunrise around 7:30 AM and sunset around 7:30 PM. Visitors can enjoy the longer daylight hours for sightseeing and outdoor activities.
And, as Sir Ranulph Fiennes said, “There is no bad weather, only inappropriate clothing.” So, bring lots of warm clothing and enjoy this most special time in Iceland.
Costs
Please keep in mind that this trip offers some free time to pursue activities that interest you. Make sure you look over all of the optional activities and note these additional costs when deciding whether you can afford this program. The prices below are rough estimates for budgeting your trip.
Tour Company Fee
See our price in the top right corner
Optional Activities
$0-300 USD
International Airfare from the United States
Approximately $600-1,100 USD
If you require assistance in booking your international airfare, we would be happy to help you.
Airport Transfers
$50-100 USD
Insurance
$79-200 USD
Please note: It is mandatory for all of our travelers to have Emergency Medical insurance that covers both emergency evacuation and repatriation to the sum of $200,000 USD. We also strongly recommend purchasing cancellation insurance as an add-on.
Tipping
We recommend $30-40 USD for your G Adventures tour leader. Budget another $10 for tipping local guides and your driver.
Laundry, Drinks, Phone Calls, etc.
Make sure you budget for these types of expenses
Vaccines
Variable. Please consult your doctor.
Souvenirs
Variable; at your personal discretion.
Optional Activities
Most optional activities are booked and paid for locally in the local currency, however, we can book the glacier hike listed below in advance. You do not have to decide in advance for which activities you would like to sign up. The prices listed are based on the latest information we have received from our participants and G Adventures. They are not guaranteed to be accurate. Please feel free to use them as a guide for budgeting your trip.
Glacier Hiking on Sólheimajökull: $114 USD per person
Equipped with crampons and an ice ax, hike through the dramatic glacier valley and along the black sand flood plains to the edge of the ice. Enjoy stunning, panoramic views of the surrounding mountains, glaciers, and the Eyjafjallajökull volcano. The guide will explain the volcanic history of the area and the effects of global warming.
Silfra Fissure Snorkeling in Thingvellir National Park (from Reykjavik): $164 USD per person
Located in the heart of Þingvellir National Park, with clear, narrow blue water channels, Silfra Fissure is one of Iceland’s most incredible spots for snorkeling. Float between the American and Eurasian continental plates and explore the incredible rock formations that make this spot regularly rated as one of world's top ten dive sites. Activity includes roundtrip transportation from Reykjavík (about 35 mins each way).
Harpa Concert Hall: Free
Harpa Concert Hall and Conference Centre is one of Reykjavik's greatest and most distinguished landmarks. Situated by the old harbor, the award-winning building serves as a concert all and boasts a wide variety of hosted events where all musical genres play a part.
Whale Watching From Reykjavik Harbour: 10,990 ISK per person
Take a boat ride into Faxaflói bay to try and spot minke and humpback whales, dolphins, and porpoises. Each tour has an expert guide to maintain safety at sea and answer any questions you may have.
Blue Lagoon Ticket: 5,800 ISK per person (depends on the type of ticket purchased)
This geothermal spa is known for its bright blue waters and white silica mud. The warm, mineral-rich waters are said to have therapeutic benefits for the skin and are located in a lava field near the Reykjanes Peninsula, surrounded by a stunning landscape of black lava rocks and steam vents. Visitors can relax in the warm waters and apply the silica mud to their skin.
Hallgrímskirkja Tower: 700 ISK per person (the line can be long) – entrance to the ground (main) level of the church is free
Hallgrímskirkja is a Lutheran church that is one of Reykjavik's most recognizable landmarks, known for its towering height and distinctive architecture. The church was designed by architect Guðjón Samúelsson and took 41 years to complete, finally being finished in 1986. The tower of Hallgrímskirkja is 244 feet tall, making it one of the tallest buildings in Iceland and offering visitors panoramic views of the city.
Saga Museum: 2,000 ISK per person
The Saga Museum provides visitors with an interactive and immersive experience of Iceland's Viking history and folklore. It features life-sized, realistic replicas of Viking-era scenes and characters, as well as audio and visual effects, to bring Viking history to life. The museum covers the period from the first settlement of Iceland in the 9th century to the end of the Viking Age in the late 12th century. Visitors can learn about the daily life, beliefs, and legends of the Vikings, as well as their voyages and adventures.
National Museum: 1,500 ISK per person
The National Museum of Iceland in Reykjavik covers a wide range of topics, from the first settlement of Iceland in the 9th century to the present day. It features exhibitions on the country's Viking history, the Sagas, folklore, and daily life in Iceland throughout the ages. Visitors can see artifacts and manuscripts from the early days of Iceland's settlement, as well as more recent historical items, such as clothing and tools. The museum also offers a comprehensive overview of Iceland's natural history, including its geology, flora, and fauna.
Reykjavík 871±2: The Settlement Exhibition: 1,300 ISK per person
This excavation site of a Viking-era longhouse was uncovered during construction work in the city center. It is named after the date of the settlement, 871 ± 2, determined through radiocarbon dating of the timber used in the longhouse's construction. The settlement is thought to have been inhabited by a wealthy Viking chieftain and his family.