Highly recommend this tour if you planning to visit Iceland. Jens, one of the owner of this company is an understanding, responsible, professional and knowledgeable guide. We have joined the aurora and glacier tour in Feb 2020 and it was an unforgettable experience in my life. Just 3 of us in the group, like engaged a private tour. Jens will share the history of Iceland throughout the journey. Sometimes, he might be a bit quiet, but he will be able to answer every question and share the tips with you. Breakfast and dinner were included in the tour and he will stop along the way in town for us to grab the lunch. Breakfast is in buffet style and dinner prepared by the Farmhouse/Guesthouse was really really delicious! The Farm stay and guesthouse were cozy with nice view. The tour is reasonably priced and worth every penny.
March 5-15, 2020: The adventure of a lifetime with our guide, Jens. The small tour bus was packed with our group of 10 + luggage, as Jens transported us to see Iceland’s well-known sites & lesser-known corners of the country. Several of the taller/larger group members found the bus uncomfortable & would have liked more legroom. I found this vehicle to be a refreshing alternative to the large tour buses of 40-60 roaring around the island that can’t travel off the beaten path as we did with Jens at the wheel. The weather is highly unpredictable & can change quickly & often, so have your gear & layers of outerwear at the ready in your backpack (not in your suitcase stowed in the back of the bus). Roads often close in winter months-prevented us from traveling to see the Myvatn area in NE Iceland, so Jens lined up alternate lodging for one night & the next day drove us back the way we came-around the southern Ring Road from Reyoarfjorour in the east to north of Bogarnes in the west. Road Warrior Jens, drove us 10.5 hours through white outs & high winds to ensure that we would be able to see as much of the original itinerary as possible. We appreciated his tireless efforts. Be ready for these kinds of unpredictable changes in the winter.
In addition to brief photo stops, Jens stopped to lead a “walk” over slippery & sometimes uneven terrain that would take you to a remote black pebble beach, seaside overlook, waterfall or glacial lagoon-simply breathtaking! Crampons, hiking poles & ski goggles really helped this petite 64-year old navigate the paths and follow Jens, who beamed with delight as we reached our destination & were wowed by the spectacular vistas. These windy winter walks are optional for all who are willing & able, but are not for the faint of heart, physically fragile or unequipped. The ones who opted out stayed in the bus, at the local café or walked nearby. This tour included a bumpy ride in a giant super truck followed by a fantastic 30-minute hike over wide open terrain to explore a Blue Ice Cave & moulin. At Skaftafellsjokull, I opted for a great 4-mile roundtrip hike over the frozen glacial lagoon. Also, hiked with Jens up the cliff at Stykkisholmur to the red lighthouse with awe-inspiring views. Lunch stops were cafes in small villages with fresh, homemade fare.
Jens shared his knowledge of Iceland’s history, geology & geography, & answered my many questions along the way. At my request, he tried to teach me to count to 10 in Icelandic & seemed to appreciate my struggle to pick up a few Icelandic words in this language of ancient origins. At a few stops, Jens read a short Icelandic fairy tale to us-an unexpected treat. He packs a lot into every day with a schedule to keep, so he wasn’t willing to make additional stops at our request to photograph, for example, Icelandic horses in the fields.
I thoroughly enjoyed overnights at guest/farmhouses that were charming, clean & comfortable with friendly staff. Twin rooms are small by American standards but are complimented by nicely furnished “community” rooms where our group relaxed after dinner each night. Most had a bar where we could buy a drink at our own expense. The local farm-to-table dinners were delicious-fresh fish & the tastiest lamb ever. Breakfasts offered a nice selection with superb coffee. And do take the opportunity to drink as much of the clear Icelandic water as possible!
We chased Miss Aurora but she didn’t show-maybe next time. If you want a winter adventure, this tour with Jens is for you!
I cannot recommend this tour, or this tour company, more. Jens was a terrific driver and wonderful guide, with exceptional knowledge of the history and mythology of the country. The itinerary took us to all the incredible sights and unique locations including many which you would not likely consider when planning a visit to Iceland.
The accommodation was varied, as is consistent with Europe, but in all cases was clean and comfortable. Special mention to Guesthouse Fjalladyrd, which provides a perfect setting for the Northern Lights (if you are so lucky).
The included meals were always good and perfectly showcased the region's produce. Just note, if you don't eat lamb or fish, make sure you inform Jens early, as the farm stays were able to make suitable arrangements.
The bus was exceptionally comfortable and allows Jens to take you places that bigger tours could not reach.
I had a wonderful time in Iceland and i cannot wait to return for summer.