Human has always been drawn to the sky, to the stars, to adventure for absolutely different reasons. Some wanted to become explorers of the unknown, some wanted to expand the boundaries of their abilities, some wanted to feel freedom, some wanted to find new worlds. Travelling into space has become a dream for many and many people, and despite the rapid development of technology, so far this goal is difficult to achieve for many reasons. But in order to get to a completely different world and experience a completely different planet, you don't have to fly to Mars!
Native Earth gave us a wonderful, magical and extraordinary place where you look with all your eyes and can not believe that all this is real, that under your feet native Earth is solid, and overhead is the same sun. This place is the Iceland island. It strikes the imagination, speaks its own, unusual and beautiful language of geysers, rivers, waterfalls, volcanoes, glaciers, and has its own special character.
During 13 days hike we will be able to feel all the charms of Icelandic trekking and get maximum privacy from the nature.
At almost every anchorage we will be able to shower and enjoy local campsites/hotels, while living in tents like real campers.
One day we will have the opportunity to soak in the real hot springs, and it's even more fun after a difficult hiking.
We do not cancel or shift groups. If the manager approved the purchase of a ticket, you can surely buy it. The hike will not be canceled due to our fault.
Kuluar experienced teamleaders will accompany the group along the entire route, making your trip as memorable and safe as possible! They have been to Iceland many times and know the country in details.
The manager, who will advise you before the trip, has been to Iceland herself and will tell you the details from personal experience!
More than 12,000 participants have already gone to the mountains with the Kuluar and 97,8% were satisfied.
Just the sight of it takes your breath away.
The journey begins with the cozy capital of the ice island - the Reykjavik city. The best way to get there is by plane, but there are no direct flights from the CIS to Iceland, so you have to change planes. The group gathers at the airport or at the camping site; the exact time and place will be specified in the letter that is sent in advance to all the participants of the expedition. We get to the camping by regular bus, there are all conveniences - hot water, shower, internet, kitchen and even a barbeque grill. The first day is devoted to acquaintance of participants of a campaign, comprehension of their stay in this fantastic country and getting used to the white nights ;)
Iceland's most popular hiking route, the Golden Ring, is a must-see. The tour can be booked directly at the campsite. The Geysers Haukadalur Valley, the cascading waterfall Gudlfoss and Tingvetlir National Park - the main points of this route, they can rightly be called the most beautiful places of central Iceland. The teamleader will tell you a lot of interesting things about the sights, culture and life of the Icelanders. Forgetting a camera on the tour is an unforgivable mistake, because it is impossible not to try to capture the active geyser Strokkur (a tourist favorite, which bursts with a deafening roar every 5-7 minutes). And if the sun shines on that day - you can see an amazing rainbow over the waterfall Gudlfoss. The tour ends in the capital, in the evening we cook and share our impressions.
Day three begins by packing up your tents and driving to one of Iceland's most beautiful places, the Landmannalaugar Valley. A little tip - watch the changing views from the bus window. Gradually, the flat terrain will be replaced by extraordinary hilly landscapes that are striking with a riot of colors. After settling in at the campsite, we will have a radial outing to the Blahniukur Mountain and the smoky springs. They are places of unearthly beauty - mountains of turquoise, pink, purple, blue, red, yellow and orange colors and their combinations create the impression of being on a completely different planet. But the valley presents another surprise - hot springs, in which you can swim and get incredible pleasure. We rest, gain strength for the next hikes.
Today marks the first serious hike to the campsite, which is near the 1,060-meter pass. On the way we will have a short ascent, many hot springs and colorful smoking mountains. The weather can be harsh - both during the hike and at the campsite, don't forget warm and waterproof clothes. After lunch we have a radial hike in the neighborhood.
Trekking: 10 km, climb: 630; drop: 130 m.
Our trek in the Iceland continues, and our next goal is Lake Alftavatn. The path to it goes through a pass, after which a short descent awaits us. The scenery along the way changes rapidly - suddenly the variety of colors of the mountains stops, but an amazing landscape of bright green mountains covered with moss, the beauty of which is emphasized by black lava rocks. Towards the end of the hike there will be a small ford, which will add positive emotions and cheer you up, because the water in the rivers is very cold! The lake itself is incredibly beautiful - the sky and mountains reflecting in it fascinate, and its calmness is guarded by the stone troll on the shore, which we will see walking along the lake.
Trekking: 12 km, climb: 90 m, drop: 635 m.
This day's hike will be varied - you'll have to overcome several fords, pass a lava field, have lunch on the bank of a stormy river on amazingly soft moss, enjoy the contrasting landscapes, and settle down in a very comfortable campsite. But you have to consider - it's pretty small, so don't slow down on the road. There is a paid shower with hot water, in which it is nice to relax after the crossing.
Trekking: 20 km; climb 275; drop: 280 m.
Thorsmørk National Park is completely different from Landmannalaugar. The scenery here is stunning with steep cliffs, a variety of shades of green, and the presence of trees that are very rarely seen elsewhere. The road to the park is through a canyon, which we cross with a bridge, small climbs and descents. On the way there are a lot of edible mushrooms, which will bring a nice variety to the evening ration. At the campsite there is a store with Icelandic chocolate, cocoa and light Icelandic beer.
Trekking: 19 km; climb: 225 m; drop: 500 m.
On the next hiking day we will cross the pass between the two glaciers Eyjafjallajökull and Myrdalsjökull. By the way, it is believed that the name of the first glacier and the volcano of the same name, known for its eruption in 2010, can be pronounced by only 0.005% of the world's population. So it's a sin not to try to challenge that statement. The green hills of Torsmörk will be replaced by volcanic landscapes with black ash and unmelted snowfields - all this beauty brings associations with Tolkien's Mordor. But soon you will again see a green valley with an unusually beautiful Skogau river, which forms extraordinary waterfalls and breathtaking canyons. Her curves are so varied, so beautiful and unusual, that will not leave anyone indifferent! We should try not to lose photo lovers on the way, because at the end of our descent another wonder of Iceland - Skougafoss waterfall of 60 meters awaits us. Not far from it we will spend the night in the camping in the village of Skogar.
Trekking: 23 km; climb: 910 m; drop: 1105 m
In the morning we will enjoy the power of Skaugafoss waterfall one more time and take a shuttle bus to the village of Vik, where we will stay for the next two nights. Today we will go to the famous black beaches, where you can finally swim in the Atlantic Ocean and look at one of the symbols of Iceland - the funny Tupik birds, take pictures of petrified trolls, and buy souvenirs. Or, if you're not tired of camping yet, head across the small hill to the unique basalt columns, where you can watch the most beautiful sunset.
The Jökülsaurloun Glacial Lagoon is a striking place. We get here by bus or by hitchhiking. Whichever is more convenient. The lagoon is considered the largest in Iceland, where large blocks of ice break off from the Vatnajökull glacier and float out into the Atlantic Ocean as icebergs. Here you can take a 40-minute tour by boat or amphibious boat, and see interesting birds and seals. The place is actually amazingly beautiful and peaceful. Take a leisurely walk, enjoy the majesty of nature, and return to the campsite in Vic.
In the morning we pack our backpacks and take the bus back to Reykjavik. There are two options again - by bus (comfortable, clean, with air conditioning and Wi-Fi) or hitchhiking. On the way there will be beautiful green landscapes of Iceland behind the window, you can see sheep grazing peacefully and horses of a special Icelandic breed. The drive to Reykjavik takes about 3.5 hours, and upon arrival we check in at the campsite and plan the last day of the trek.
How to spend your last day in Iceland is a seemingly difficult question when you consider the vast array of options available. You can book a wide variety of excursions - go whale watching on a whale safari, descend into the crater of a real volcano, or get warm in the Blue Lagoon geothermal complex. Or you can just walk around Reykjavik where you can try national Icelandic cuisine, go to the pool, which is in 2 minutes from the campsite, see the local attractions - the church Hadlgrimskirkja, the Cathedral, Althing - the Parliament of Iceland, Perlan. While walking around the city, it's important not to forget to try Iceland's wonderful ice cream! In the evening we return to the campsite, prepare a festive dinner, and share our contacts and impressions!
The last day - say goodbye to the unearthly beauty of the northern beauty and fly home! Upon return, do not forget to share your impressions and write reviews! :)
The manager will advise you on equipment, help you choose the best flight, share information on hotels and excursions. You make payments and purchases yourself. If you want the manager to buy a ticket for you, then this is possible, but for extra money, because this is a big responsibility. More in the article: additional services and service fee
Depending on the weather conditions, condition and general wishes of the group, the teamleader has the right to make changes to the route.
Citizens of Ukraine who have a biometric passport do not need a visa to visit Iceland. At the border, you may be asked to provide an insurance policy. Ukrainians citizens with a regular passport need a Schengen tourist visa. If you don't have a visa we'll help you to obtain it. So far, the participants of our trips have not received refusals.
You must have no illnesses from this list in order to participate in the hike.
The climate in Iceland is very variable, there is even a proverb: "If you do not like the weather in Iceland, just wait 5 minutes and it will change. That is, during the hike there will be rain and sunshine - which will be more - it depends on your luck. We try to organize our treks in the most favorable time, but we can't give any guarantees about the weather). Take a good membrane clothes, they will protect you from rain and wind. The average temperature is about +13°C, but sometimes it gets warmer than 20°C! The most up-to-date information about the weather can be found on the weather website.
This hike in Iceland is of moderate difficulty and does not require any special physical or technical skills. But, a little running before the trip is recommended. Then you will go much easier and you can fully enjoy the beauty of the northern beauty.
Buy good, quality gear. On this hike you will feel all the advantages of expensive membranes over cheap. It must be of high quality and reliable to withstand the northern rains and winds. On the choice of equipment depends on your comfort and enjoyment of the hike. Good membrane pants and jacket, windproof waterproof tent, and comfortable waterproof boots are a must have on this trek.
After hiking in Iceland, we recommend the following routes:
Tickets must be purchased as early as possible, closer to the start of the price can increase by half. You will need to take a connecting flight. It's up to you to choose the best flight, it all depends on the starting point. Tickets start at 300 euros and cost from there. If you have any difficulties - you can always contact us, and we will help you with the purchase.How to get from Keflavik Airport to Reykjavik and find our campsite, read the detailed article with transfer options and video instructions.
Our recommendations for airline ticketing services can be found in this article.
You need good insurance to participate in the program. Please do not neglect this item. For some participants, it saved thousands of dollars. You can find our recommendations for taking out insurance here: "Insurance for Kuluar hikers"
The meeting place of the group is Reykjavik airport or a campsite. It depends on when you arrive. 7-10 days before the trip we will send you detailed instructions and teamleader contacts.
Cards with a chip are accepted absolutely everywhere, you won't even see the local currency. But taking only a card with a magnetic strip is risky. Also remember to apply for an unblocked card abroad at your bank, if necessary.
Of course, it's not cheap, but it's still worth a meal in an Icelandic restaurant. You should order the national dishes, especially the seafood and the famous lamb steaks. Of course, we can fry up the latter on our own for a farewell dinner. If you're sure of your stomach, try the rotten shark meat.
Icelandic ice cream is incredibly delicious and great! Once you try it, you can't stop. It's the same at all the dressings, buy the middle one in milk chocolate.
Surely you are wondering what we will eat on a hike? Let's just say that you don't have to worry. Many participants say they eat better on the hike than they do at home. The basis of the menu is a simple meal of cereals and soups. You should not count on gourmet delicacies (although they can be).
If you do not eat any products, be sure to inform the manager so that the guide can slightly adjust the menu for you. We also recommend taking some yummies with you - nuts or sweets. Appetite on a hike is much better than at home.
Please note that the menu shown is indicative only. Team leaders usually have their signature dishes that they love to pamper participants with.
Features of nutrition for vegetarians - if you do not eat meat, be sure to read. We tell here how we will feed you and at the same time we give you a 5% discount to the hiking.
Iceland is a very distant country and who knows, when you get here next time - try to visit all possible excursions and outings. Don't stay in tents while others are accumulating impressions!
During the trekking we will spend the night in tents in specially equipped paid places - campsites. A campsite in Iceland is a fenced area with a parking lot and a place to pitch our tents. Also there is almost always a warm shower with toilet and usually a kitchen, and some have a washing machine and even a dryer. The campsites are in some of the most beautiful areas, where there are no hotels or hostels, so every morning when you open your tent you'll marvel at the splendor of the wilderness.
Campgrounds in the cities (Reykjavik, Vik, Skogar) have free Wi-Fi, outlets for recharging, washing machines (extra charge), drying rooms.
The total amount of obligatory additional expenses of program:
Depending on your wishes, you will need money for souvenirs, additional excursions, getting to and from the airport, and meals in cafes. It is always recommended to have a hundred or two euros with you in case of unforeseen circumstances.
Options for excursions:
*Please note: It is not the manager's task to choose a separate flight for each participant. The manager gives general recommendations from his experience and shares flights of other participants, so you can fly together. It's up to the participant to select and purchase his own convenient airfare. If you want the manager to buy you a ticket, book a hotel or an additional excursion, read the terms and conditions on the page: additional services.
To book a place in the group you need to pay a prepayment of 300 euros. We recommend to do it as early as possible. Methods of payment and conditions of return in case of refusal or descent from the route here. The rest of the sum you mast give to the teamleader at the first day of the program.
