5day tour: Troll or Arctic adventure - Complete Guide
When choosing between a 5-day tour with Troll Expeditions or Arctic Adventures, consider your preferences for activities and budget. Troll Expeditions offers a comprehensive 5-day South Coast tour, including visits to iconic sites like Gullfoss, Seljalandsfoss, and Jökulsárlón. This package typically costs around 150,000 ISK (approximately 1,100 USD). You'll cover a distance of about 1,200 kilometers, ensuring you see a variety of landscapes from black sand beaches to glacial lagoons. Expect temperatures to range from 0°C to 10°C, depending on the season.
On the other hand, Arctic Adventures provides a similar 5-day package with a focus on adventure activities such as glacier hiking and ice caving. Priced at around 140,000 ISK (approximately 1,030 USD), this tour also includes visits to popular sites like Skógafoss and the Golden Circle, covering approximately 1,000 kilometers. The tour is designed for those who enjoy a more physically active itinerary, with temperatures also ranging from 0°C to 10°C.
For practical travel, both tours depart from Reykjavík and include accommodations, guiding, and transportation. If you prioritize a mix of sightseeing and adventure, Troll Expeditions might suit you better. Alternatively, for a more adventurous experience, Arctic Adventures is ideal. Ultimately, both tours offer unique experiences, ensuring a memorable Icelandic journey.
Detailed Planning Information
When planning your Iceland experience, consider the seasonal variations that significantly impact accessibility and costs. Summer months (June-August) offer extended daylight with up to 20 hours of sunlight, while winter provides unique opportunities like northern lights viewing from September through March.
Practical Considerations and Costs
Iceland's dynamic weather patterns require flexible planning and appropriate preparation. Weather conditions can change rapidly, making layered clothing and adaptable itineraries essential for successful travels.
Most major attractions remain accessible year-round, though some highland routes close during winter months. Popular destinations include the Golden Circle (free access), Blue Lagoon (6,500-15,000 ISK), and Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon (free viewing, 7,000 ISK for boat tours).
Budget and Transportation
Travel costs vary significantly by season and service level. Budget travelers typically spend 12,000-18,000 ISK daily, while mid-range options range from 20,000-35,000 ISK. Luxury experiences can exceed 50,000 ISK per day.
The Ring Road (Route 1) provides access to most major attractions and remains well-maintained throughout the year. Car rentals range from 8,000 ISK for economy vehicles to 25,000 ISK for 4WD options during peak season.
Local Insights and Recommendations
Connect with local tourism offices for current information and recommendations. Many attractions offer seasonal variations in accessibility and pricing. Weather conditions can change rapidly, making flexible planning essential.
Planning and Preparation Tips
Download useful apps: 112 Iceland (emergency services), Vedur (weather), and Straeto (public transport). Carry both cash and cards - most places accept cards, but some remote locations prefer cash. Learn basic Icelandic phrases for enhanced local interactions.