Your Trip to Iceland

11-13 March 2024: Grindavik (2 nights)

• The Retreat

13–14 March 2024: Hvolsvöllur (1 night)

• Skálakot Manor Hotel

14–16 March 2024: Hotel Vik (2 nights)

• Hótel Vík

16–17 March 2024: Reykjavík (1 night)

• Sand Hotel

In March, temperatures across Iceland average around -2.2°C (28°F) and get up to about an average of 3.3°C (38°F). It's still cold, and it can rain, but there are also chances of snow!

A passport valid at least three months beyond intended stay, is required for visitors to Iceland.

Travel between countries participating in the Schengen cooperation is allowed without formal passport control including Austria, Belgium, Denmark, Finland, France, Greece, Iceland, Italy, Luxembourg, Netherlands, Norway, Portugal, Spain, Sweden and Germany.

For additional information on passport and visa requirements see Icelandic Directorate of Immigration website: www.utl.is

These guidelines are for reference only. Scenset holds no responsibility for travel restrictions. Travelers are responsible for ensuring the right documentation to travel.

We have designed a great playlist for you to enjoy while driving across Iceland:

• Open Road is a selection of driving songs for you to listen to while you gaze out the window.

Warm clothing in Iceland is always practical! Be prepared for sun, snow, rain and wind.

We recommend wearing layers of clothing, so you can easily adjust to the different temperatures and weather. The inner layer to keep the body warm, the outer layer for protection against rain and wind. So apart from your regular blouses, shirts, T-shirts, pants and jackets, you should pack:

• Winter jacket - and waterproof jacket
• Warm sweater (wool or fleece)
• Pants – for example zip off
• Casual clothes for going out
• Warm hat, gloves and scarf
• Footwear with sturdy soles (hiking boots)
• Light footwear/trainers
• Swim wear
• Backpack for day trips
• Sunglasses (very important when on glacier)
• Water bottle (thermo)
• Sunblock
• Travel documents (including insurance)
• Passport, Camera, Binoculars
• Your best mood & free mind!

For Glacier Activities:
• Long underwear top & bottom, silk or wool recommended – avoid cotton or cotton blends (for many glacier activities such as snowmobiling you will be provided with overalls)
• Fleece jacket
• Fleece pants
• Light trekking pants/rain pants & jacket
• Wearing layers is always better than bringing a huge jacket that is uncomfortable to walk in
• Sunglasses + sunscreen – the reflection from the glacier is stronger than you think!

The Icelandic monetary unit is the krona (plural kronur), which is abbreviated Kr or ISK. Denominations of notes are 500, 1000, 2000, 5000, 10.000 kronur, and coins are minted in denominations of 1, 5, 10, 50, 100 kronur.

Money can be easily exchanged at the airport, bank and currency exchanges. All major credit cards are accepted and can be used to pay for virtually anything – except the public buses. Electron, Maestro and edc debit cards are increasingly being accepted by merchants. ATM/Bank machines are found in most banks and many other locations throughout the country. Look for the Hradbanki sign.

Please note that you must have your pin code when paying by debit or credit cards.

Banks are open Monday through Friday during the morning and afternoon. As a general rule offices are open from morning to afternoon, in some cases during the summer these hours are from morning to afternoon.

Shopping in Reykjavik can be done in Kringlan or Smaralind Shopping Mall or Laugavegur shopping street. Laugavegur is located downtown while Kringlan is about 10 minutes away and Smaralind is 20 minutes away, within driving distance.

Some food stores are open until late at night seven days a week or even 24 hours in the larger towns. Shopping malls, souvenir shops, and bookshops in the city center are open on weekends.

There are medical centers or hospitals in all major cities and towns in Iceland. The 24-hour emergency phone number in Iceland is 112. Pharmacies are called ‘Apotek’ and are open during normal business hours. See also www.safetravel.is.

A refund of the local Value Added Tax is available to visitors to Iceland. The refund will result in a reduction of up to 15% of the retail price, provided departure from Iceland is within 30 days after the purchase is made. The purchased amount must be no less than ISK 6.000, - (VAT included) per sales receipt, and all goods (except woolens) must be packed in sealed bags or containers.

In Iceland gratuity is always included in the bill, therefore tipping is not required. This applies to everything: restaurants, taxis, cafés, room service and more. However, if you do feel that you have received excellent service and would like to tip, Icelanders are generally not offended if they are offered a tip and will appreciate a tip & gladly accept it.

• Iceland is on Greenwich Mean Time (GMT) throughout the year and does not adjust to daylight saving time
  
• Icelandic is the national language of Iceland although English and Scandinavian languages are widely spoken
  
• The tap water in Iceland is safe to drink
  
• Electricity in Iceland runs on 220 volts; 50 Hz AC. Icelandic electrical plugs are of the rounded, European two-pin type
  
• All taxis accept credit cards and must be reserved in advance. In some major cities and towns, there are also taxi stations where you can line up to get a car
  
• Wine, beer, and spirits are sold in government stores called “Vinbudin”. The age limit for buying alcohol is 20 years. Smoking is not permitted in public buildings or other places open to the public. The age limit for buying tobacco is 18 years.

For up-to-date road conditions in Iceland, please visit the www.road.is.

The Icelandic Road and Coastal Administration: Information on Road conditions and weather (or via Tel: will be provided / will be provided)

For parking in Reykjavík and around the country, we recommend using Parka.

Overall, parking in Iceland is free, even in Reykjavik’s capital city; however, certain areas in the center do charge for parking. The parking zones are well marked, and depending on whether it is paid parking on the street or a spot in the car park or parking garage, payment options, and hours of service are relatively straightforward.

HOW TO PAY?

The paid parking zones will be equipped with a mobile app option, ticket machine, or parking meter. The traditional style meters accept coins. However, if you do encounter them, you’ll need to have larger coins available.

The ticket machines accept credit cards and larger coins, but it doesn’t provide change. At these locations, you’ll need to input your license plate number and the length of time you’ll remain parked, and the machine will charge you accordingly. No ticket will be provided; instead, when a parking attendant scans the license plate, the data will confirm whether you paid or not.

Finally, paying via the mobile app is possible. The app is named Parka and is available in the Google Play Store and Apple App Store.

CAR PARKS

If you want to avoid street parking or prefer more secure or overnight parking in Reykjavik, there are several car parks or parking houses to choose from. These are not typically full unless it’s during a significant event.

Also, be forewarned that some car parks are only open during the day and early evening, so make sure that won’t trouble your schedule. Another important note is the car parks are designed very compact and tight, so drive through with caution.

For real time alerts on weather and road conditions please visit Safe Travel.

Iceland weather forecast

Today marks the beginning of your adventure as you arrive in Iceland from your international flight!

After picking up your rental car, drive towards the Retreat Hotel at Blue Lagoon.

• 📍 Google Maps Route This is a new road crossing the newest lava field from the January eruption and will take you directly from the airport to The Retreat Hotel

Please note that some roads are narrow, so adhere to the speed limit.

⚠️Remember to always check road conditions and weather before you leave.

Head to The Retreat Hotel and check in.

• Booking Reference: will be provided
  
• Address: 63°52'46.9"N 22°27'04.5"W.

Kindly note that a request for early check-in has been submitted. However, confirmation of this request will only be possible upon arrival.

As your check-in time at the Retreat isn't until 3 PM, you have some time to spend exploring.

• Here are our suggestions for the ruggedly beautiful Reykjanes peninsula with its hot springs, tectonic rifts, volcanic craters, and other moon-like landscapes. The endless lava fields in the raw and mysterious surroundings will make you feel like you’re at the end of the world!
  
• This breathtaking area with its rugged treeless landscape is located directly on the Mid-Atlantic ridge where you can cross the “bridge between continents”, something you can’t experience anywhere else in the world!
  
• Hafnaberg is a long line of sheer sea lava cliffs south of the old fishing hamlet of Hafnir. Hafnaberg is very popular among hikers and bird watchers as various marine birds nest at the cliffs. A parking place is located 4 km from Hafnir on road 44 and from there is a marked path from the road to the cliffs.
  
• The mud pools and steam, vents in south-west Reykjanes. The area is close to Reykjanes lighthouse and is collectively named Gunnuhver after a female ghost. She had caused great disturbance until a priest set a trap for her and she fell into the spring. This happened about 400 years ago. The mud pools take form where steam from boiling geothermal reservoir water emanates and condenses and mixes with surface water.
  
• Brimketill is a small, naturally carved pool, by marine erosion, at the lava shore edge west of the town of Grindavík. The folklore relates that the pond was regularly occupied by a giantess named Oddný. Standing on the viewing platform you risk the possibility of getting soaked, make sure to watch your step while taking in the amazing view and the unrelenting forces of nature. Utmost caution is recommended.

📍Your Route for the journey described above

Soak in the lagoon's milky geothermal water, enjoy a refreshment from the in-water bar and relax with a mineral face mask, made from the natural silica or algae that is prevalent in the surrounding landscape.

Access to the Blue Lagoon is included in your stay at the hotel.

The Retreat

• 1 x Moss Junior Suite
  
• Breakfast included

Booked by a person.

This morning you each will enjoy an in-water spa treatment lasting about half an hour.

• Please make your way to the Retreat Spa, out to the treatment lagoon. The Spa staff will advise if you have any issues.

Please note, that this treatment has not been pre-paid and payment will be taken on-site.

Enjoy your time at Retreat SPA – unlimited access to the SPA area and unlimited Ritual cycles.

A revelation of subterranean enchantments, the Retreat Spa experience features an extraordinary array of opulent inclusions calibrated to take your mind, body, and spirit to the heights of wellbeing:

• Numerous geothermal sanctuaries for relaxation and rejuvenation
  
• The skin-nourishing wonders of the Blue Lagoon Ritual
  
• The hypnotic luxuries of the Retreat Lagoon
  
• The radiant pleasures of the Blue Lagoon

The Retreat

• 1 x Moss Junior Suite
  
• Breakfast included

Booked by someone.

This morning, after breakfast, you will check out of the hotel.

Here is the Google Maps route we recommend for you today. Route starting from Gunnuhver.

• 📍 Google Map Route

• Suggested Departure Time: Morning

The Golden Circle needs little introduction; it is undoubtedly the most famous sightseeing route in Iceland. On the Golden Circle tour, you will visit the beautiful national park of Þingvellir, where you can see the American and Eurasian tectonic plates split apart. The most famous attraction is the geothermal area of Geysir. Last but not least, you will marvel at the spectacular Gullfoss waterfall.

After these stops on the Golden Circle, you will head towards your next accommodation on the south coast. Along the way, you will pass the beautiful Seljalandsfoss waterfall (parking fee), which you can fully encircle with a drop of 60 meters (200 feet).

Following Seljalandsfoss, many visitors continue north to the waterfall Gljúfrabúi, which is partially hidden behind a rock face. Due to Seljalandsfoss's extreme popularity, Gljúfrabúi is considered the hidden gem of the scenset, often overlooked by many.

Additional stops to the highlighted attractions above include:
Kerið: volcanic crater (parking fee)
Faxi waterfall: a modest but beautiful waterfall with a quirky salmon ladder (parking fee)
Skálholt: one of Iceland's two episcopal sees
Brúarfoss waterfall: often labeled Iceland’s bluest waterfall

Food tip: Stop at Efsti-Dalur farm for ice cream!🍦


Explore at your own pace.

Learn more about how Iceland produces fresh vegetables all year round through geothermal horticulture by visiting the geothermal greenhouse at Friðheimar.

The main produce of the Friðheimar farm is tomatoes, in many different forms.

First, you’ll get a private introduction to the processes of the greenhouse, and after, of course, you’ll get to taste the fresh produce with a delicious lunch amidst the tomato plants.

• Address: Friðheimar - 5HH4+225 Friðheimar, 806 Reykholt, Iceland
  
• What’s included: Private presentation of the greenhouse, lunch of tomato soup + bread and Healthy Marys.

Booked by a scenset.

We recommend dinner tonight at the hotel restaurant.

Arrive at Skálakot Manor Hotel and check in.

• Booking Reference: will be provided
  
• Hotel Coordinates: 63°34'15.2"N 19°47'42.2"W

Skálakot Manor Hotel

• 1 x Standard Double Room
  
• Breakfast included
  
• Booking Reference: will be provided

Booked by a guest.

This morning, you'll check out of your hotel and head off for today's southern adventure.

Here is the Google Maps route we recommend for you today.

• 📍 Google Map Route

• Suggested Departure Time: Morning

Today you will drive along the south coast of Iceland. With vast black lava beaches as far as the eye can see, majestic waterfalls, rugged rock formations, and enchanting glacier tongues, it is a magical area. At Skógafoss you'll find a winding staircase leading to the top of the falls, offering a bird’s eye view of this natural marvel.

You can wander the iconic black sand beach of Reynisfjara. As you walk along the jet-black sand, you will be able to spot the Reynisdrangar rocky sea stacks which, according to legend, are trolls turned to solid stone at sunrise as they tried to drag ships from the ocean to the shore. Note that this area can be very dangerous, we do not recommend going too close to the waves!

You will also get to visit the charming coastal village of Vík í Mýrdal, whose picturesque church enjoys glorious ocean views. Nearby is Dyrhólaey; a 120m high natural rock arch, which serves as a bird sanctuary in summertime.

Additional stops to the highlight bolded above:
Sólheimajökull: an impressive glacier tongue, not far from the main road
Kvernufoss: hidden waterfall where you can walk behind
Paradísarhellir: a small cave accessible by a bit of climbing (not for people afraid of heights)
Loftsalahellir: a cave with a great view, easily accessible
Seljavallalaug: remote abandoned pool - for the brave-hearted bring swimwear!


Explore at your own pace.

Easy and exciting horseback riding tour on the black beach in Vík. Our horses are friendly and sure-footed and suitable for everyone, beginners and experts alike.

Riding the Icelandic horse in its natural environment is something everyone should try at least once in their lifetime.

You will depart from the stables in Vík and take the beautiful black beach route.

• Vik Horse Adventure: Meeting Point: Smiðjuvegur 6, 870 Vík
  
• Booking Reference: will be provided
  
• What’s included: Icelandic Horse, guide, helmet.
  
• Duration: 40-60min
  
• Please arrive in the early afternoon, as the activity starts at 2:30PM and you will need to arrive 15 mins early.
  
• Please note: This is a shared experience (small group with a maximum of 12 participants).
  
• Please come dressed ready to ride, according to the weather of the day. Practical clothing similar to what you would wear hiking is ideal: warm layers, waterproofs, and hiking boots or trainers

Booked by a participant.

x2 Horse Riding Ticket

ICELANDIC LAVA SHOW is a new and exciting entertainment choice, completely different from everything you have ever experienced.

It is the only show in the world where you can feel the heat from actual flowing lava in a safe environment.

The show recreates a volcano eruption, similar to what Eyjafjallajökull and Katla volcano are famous for, by pouring molten lava into a room full of people.

It is a unique opportunity to safely experience red-hot lava in close proximity, see it flowing, hear it sizzling, and feel the heat that radiates from it.

• Booking Reference: will be provided
  
• Meeting Point: Víkurbraut 5, Vík. Same building as the Soup Company.
  
• Please note: This is a shared experience (small group).
  
• Duration: About 50 mins

Booked By someone.

x2 Tickets to LavaShow

Tickets to LavaShow

• The Soup Company A charming family-run restaurant offering delightful light pasta dishes and soups for lunch, conveniently located adjacent to the Icelandic Lava Show.
  
• Halldórskaffi Serves bistro style dishes, pizzas, hamburgers and sandwiches.
  
• Black Crust Pizzeria - New pizzeria, serving charcoal activated pizza.

Check in at Hótel Vík í Mýrdal hotel.

• Booking Reference: will be provided
  
• Hotel Coordinates: 63°25'09.7"N 19°00'04.1"W

Hótel Vík

• 1 x Double Standard Room
  
• Breakfast included
  
• Booking Reference: will be provided

Booked By a guest.

Here is the Google Maps route we recommend for you today.

• 📍Google Map Route

• Suggested Departure Time: 9-9:30am

You can find fantastic vistas around Vík, for example, the Reynisdrangar basalt cliffs. Once you pass by Vík you can see the towering Hjörleifshöfði promontory. Named after a famous settler of Iceland’s History, the cave is located on the south coast of Iceland. With the panoramic view of hills, caves, and fields, this place will amaze you. Also known as the cape of Hjörleifur, the Hjorleifshofdi cave is a 221-meter giant rock made of volcanic eruptions during an ice age. You will find historical trails to cover around the cave that will give you a glimpse of beautiful fields. Standing tall majestically, this historical promontory attracts locals as well as other travelers. You can capture the magnificent view of a huge rock standing above black sand in your camera and if you want a detour, you could visit the Yoda cave. The track can be quite sandy though!

You will pass by the Eldhraun moss and lava fields before arriving in Kirkjubæjarklaustur. The vast Eldhraun lava field (“Fire Lava“), in the south of the Icelandic highlands, was created in one of the greatest eruptions in recorded history and is the largest of its kind in the world. The Lakagigar craters were also created during this eruption.

You will pass by sheer endless sandy plains and later moss-covered lava fields on your way east. We recommend stopping at Fjaðrárgljúfur canyon to stretch your legs and enjoy the natural beauty. Fjaðrárglúgur is about 100 meters (328 feet) deep and 2 km (1.25 mi) long, with sheer walls dotted with many waterfalls. It is possible to walk along the ridges above, or in the valley itself. The site is popular amongst photographers for the contrasts between the dark rocks, foaming waters and verdant moss.

Jökulsárlón measures at 18 km2 and is also Iceland's deepest lake, with depths reaching 248m. Giant icebergs floating in the vast lagoon in front of the enormous glacier are a sight you’ll never forget. Seals that flock to the mouth of the lagoon to catch fish can be spotted in the lagoon year-round. Down by the sea, the remains of the icebergs wash up on shore, creating the so-called Diamond Beach.

Please note: Your Blue Ice Experience is a drive of approximately 1.5hrs from your hotel and you will want time to explore the main scenset before your 2 pm arrival time

Explore at your own pace.

• The Soup Company Vik
  
• Skool Beans Micro roaster and coffee house
  
• Halldórskaffi Vik
  
• Glacier Goodies in Skaftafell
  
• Systrakaffi and Kjarr in Kirkjubæjarklaustur

Join the small group Blue Ice Experience for an easy-to-do leisure activity that includes a two-hour hike on Svinafellsjokull Glacier with an experienced glacier guide.

• Booking Reference: will be provided
  
• Meeting Point: Icelandic Mountain Guides by Icelandia - Skaftafell Base Camp
  
• Arrive: In the early afternoon to change into your gear
  
• Total Duration: Approx 3hrs
  
• What’s included: Guiding services, glacier gear, and safety equipment.
  
• Please note: This is a shared experience (small group maximum of 15 people per guide).
  
• Please bring: hiking boots, warm clothing, water bottle

Booked by a participant.

x2 Blue Ice Experience Tickets

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Hótel Vík

• 1 x Double Standard Room
  
• Breakfast included

Booked by a guest.

This morning after breakfast please check out of your hotel.

Here is the Google Maps route we recommend for you today.

• 📍 Google Route

Enjoy a scenic journey as you drive through a private black sand beach, immersing yourself in the breathtaking Icelandic landscapes. Guided by locals, venture into the mountains past Þakgil, with the majestic Mýrdalsjökull glacier as your backdrop.

Discover the hidden gem of Þakgil, where exploration leads to mountain caves and unique landscapes adorned with vibrant green moss. Uncover the secrets of this picturesque destination with an experience that seamlessly blends natural beauty and local insight.

• Booking Reference: will be provided
  
• Meeting Point: Katlatrack
  
• Please note: This is a shared experience (a small group with a maximum of 8 guests per guide).

Booked By a scenset.

x2 Buggy Tour Tickets

After your buggy tour, begin your drive back to Reykjavik and take your time to see any sites you missed.

If you are up for a little more sightseeing, we suggest turning your car towards the small towns of Stokkseyri, Eyrarbakki, and Þorlákshöfn for a change of scenset. Those little coastal towns hide a surprising amount of cute restaurants.

• 🍽 Lunch Recommendations: fjöruborðið in Stokkseyri, Rauða Húsið in Eyrarbakki

After this small town detour, you'll drive through the Þrengslin mountain pass towards Reykjavík. You can see the Hellisheiði powerplant on your way - just look for the steam in the air - the reason for Reykjavík's name (Bay of Smokes).

Your drive to the Sky Lagoon is approximately 2.5-2.75hrs from the hotel. You may decide to go straight to the Sand Hotel to check in and enjoy lunch in town before heading to your appointment at Sky Lagoon (less than a 10-minute drive from the Sand Hotel). Alternatively, if you prefer to explore and take your time, you can go directly to Sky Lagoon for an afternoon arrival.

Explore at your own pace.

5-10 minutes away from Reykjavik's city center, soak in the Sky Lagoon and enjoy the infinity-edge pool over the Atlantic Ocean. The geothermal lagoon, carved in lava and surrounded by moss and turf houses offers a relaxing experience for couples and families.

After your treatment, you can shower and change to go directly to dinner in Reykjavik, if you wish.

• Address: Sky Lagoon
  
• Inclusions: (2) Sky Passes - 2hr Treatment scheduled slot for Seven-Step Ritual and private changing facilities.

Please arrive at least 15 minutes before your scheduled appointment. If you arrive earlier, they may be able to move up your scheduled slot, but this is not guaranteed due to limited entries per time slot.

Booked by Scenset.

x2 Passes to Sky Lagoon
Link to Passes

Head to the Sand Hotel and check in.

• Booking Reference: will be provided
  
• Hotel Address: Sand Hotel by Keahotels

• Moss - Michelin Star Restaurant at The Retreat
  
• Fiskfélagið - The Fish company has been serving gourmet fine dining in the center of Reykjavík for 14 years. The restaurant is unique because of its amazing sushi and fish dishes, excellent traditional wine list.
  
• Food Cellar - In the heart of Reykjavík's downtown, Matarkjallarinn or the food cellar serves brasserie-style cuisine. Dinner is served with live piano music and a fresh take on classic, cherished dishes.
  
• Sümac - Led by Chef will be provided, creating an Icelandic cuisine infused with flavors and flair from the coastline of North Africa to Lebanon – yet with the quintessential Reykjavik mood.
  
• Oto - The latest addition to Reykjavík fine dining and already a favorite - Oto on Hverfisgata celebrates Japanese and Italian cuisine, all made with the freshest of ingredients. A dining experience not to be missed.
  
• Fish Market - The Fish Market has been a favorite for years because of its innovative approach to fresh fish and other elements including colors, smells, and experiences.
  
• Kol - The restaurant is divided into spaces with cozy leather couches and has a variety of different table settings. The cuisine is feel-good comfort food with a twist on classic cuisine. The menu offers a variety of finger food, salads, fish, steaks and desserts.
  
• Snaps- Bistro bar serving French/European bistro bar.
  
• Monkeys - Japanese cooking traditions mix with Peruvian cuisine and a large selection of exciting small dishes.
  
• Tres Locos - Mexican restaurant
  
• Skreið - Wine & tapas
  
• PUNK - PUNK is a bistro bar with a twist, located on Hverfisgata 20. They are passionate about serving great cocktails and drinks.

The latest addition to Reykjavík lunch and dining are its numerous food halls.

• Pósthús food hall, located in a former post office
  
• Hafnartorg food hall, located right next to Harpa concert hall
  
• Hlemmur food hall, the trailblazer located in an old bus station
  
• Grandi food hall, located in the Old Harbour a scenic walk from downtown

Sand Hotel

• 1 x Double Room
  
• Breakfast included
  
• Booking Reference: will be provided
  
• Queen Bed 160 cm

Booked by a guest.

Please check out of your room by 1PM and return the car rental.

Here is the route for your drive to the airport from Sand Hotel.

• 📍 Google Maps

When you are off the roundabout into the airport area, keep right and follow the car rental return signs toward the Europcar return center.

• Return Center at Blikavellir
  
• Open daily: early morning - late night
  
• GPS: 63°595087N · 22°374917W
  
• Guide to returning your rental