Frequently asked questions

Iceland's weather reputation precedes it, and rightfully so. The island's position in the North Atlantic, combined with its diverse topography, creates microclimates that can change dramatically within short distances and time periods. Successful Iceland travel requires strategic packing that prepares you for multiple weather scenarios, often within the same day.The foundation of Iceland packing is the layering system, which allows you to adapt quickly to changing conditions. Start with moisture-wicking base layers made from merino wool or synthetic materials that keep you dry and comfortable during active pursuits. Merino wool is particularly excellent for Iceland because it naturally resists odors, regulates temperature, and remains warm even when wet. Avoid cotton base layers entirely, as they retain moisture and lose insulating properties when damp.Your mid-layer should provide insulation and warmth while remaining breathable during active periods. Fleece jackets, down vests, or synthetic insulation layers work excellently for this purpose. The key is choosing pieces that compress well for packing and can be easily added or removed as conditions change. Many experienced Iceland travelers carry multiple mid-layer options to fine-tune their comfort level throughout the day.The outer layer is your primary defense against Iceland's wind and precipitation. A high-quality waterproof and windproof jacket with sealed seams is absolutely essential. Look for jackets with adjustable hoods, multiple pockets for essentials, and ventilation zippers that allow you to regulate temperature during active periods. Waterproof pants are equally important, especially if you plan to spend significant time outdoors or participate in activities like glacier hiking or ice cave exploration.Footwear deserves special attention in Iceland. Waterproof hiking boots with excellent traction are essential for navigating wet rocks, muddy trails, and potentially icy surfaces. Many visitors underestimate how wet and slippery Iceland's terrain can be, even during summer months. Consider bringing microspikes or crampons if you're visiting during winter or planning glacier activities. Warm, moisture-wicking socks are crucial, and many travelers pack extra pairs since feet often get wet despite waterproof boots.Accessories can make or break your Iceland experience. Waterproof gloves are essential, and many travelers bring both lightweight liner gloves and heavier insulated gloves for different conditions. A warm hat that covers your ears is crucial, as significant body heat is lost through your head. Sunglasses are important year-round due to glare from snow, ice, and water, and they're particularly essential for glacier activities.

Iceland's visa requirements are straightforward for most international travelers, thanks to the country's membership in the Schengen Agreement. Citizens of the United States, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Japan, and most European Union countries can enter Iceland for tourism purposes without obtaining a visa in advance, provided their stay doesn't exceed 90 days within a 180-day period.However, even visa-exempt travelers must meet specific entry requirements. Your passport must be valid for at least three months beyond your planned departure date from Iceland, and it should have been issued within the past ten years. Immigration officials may also ask to see proof of onward travel, such as a return airline ticket, and evidence of sufficient funds to support yourself during your stay.Travelers from countries not included in the visa-exempt list must apply for a Schengen visa through the Icelandic embassy or consulate in their home country. This process typically requires submitting an application form, passport photos, travel itinerary, proof of accommodation, travel insurance, and financial documentation. The application process can take several weeks, so early planning is essential.It's worth noting that Iceland maintains the same high entry standards as other European Union countries, despite not being an EU member. Border control officers are professional and efficient, but they take security seriously. Ensure all your documentation is in order and easily accessible when you arrive at Keflavik International Airport.

Iceland consistently ranks among the world's safest countries, and this reputation is well-deserved. The Global Peace Index regularly places Iceland at or near the top of its safety rankings, reflecting the country's low crime rates, stable political system, and strong social cohesion. Violent crime is extremely rare, and petty crime like pickpocketing is uncommon even in Reykjavik, the capital city.The primary safety considerations in Iceland relate to natural hazards rather than human threats. Iceland's dramatic landscapes, while breathtakingly beautiful, can present real dangers for unprepared or careless travelers. Weather conditions can change rapidly and dramatically, turning a pleasant hike into a survival situation. Rivers that appear calm can have strong undercurrents, and seemingly stable ground near geothermal areas can be dangerously hot or unstable.Road safety deserves particular attention, especially for visitors planning self-drive adventures. Iceland's roads can be challenging, with single-lane bridges, gravel surfaces, and weather conditions that change rapidly. The famous Ring Road is generally well-maintained, but highland roads require four-wheel-drive vehicles and experience with challenging driving conditions. Wind can be particularly dangerous, especially for high-profile vehicles like RVs or camper vans.FAR Travel takes safety seriously through comprehensive pre-departure briefings, experienced local guides, and emergency communication systems. Our guides carry satellite communication devices for areas without cellular coverage, and we maintain detailed safety protocols for all activities. We also provide 24/7 emergency support, ensuring that help is always available regardless of your location in Iceland.

Iceland has a reputation as an expensive destination, and while this reputation has some basis in reality, understanding the cost structure helps you budget effectively and find value in your Iceland experience. The high costs primarily reflect Iceland's remote location, small population, and the need to import most goods, but the quality of experiences and services generally justifies the investment.Accommodation costs vary significantly based on your preferences and travel dates. Budget travelers can find hostel beds for $30-50 per night, while mid-range hotels typically cost $150-300 per night. Luxury accommodations, including Iceland's famous boutique hotels and unique properties like glass igloos or converted farmhouses, can range from $400-800 or more per night. Summer months and New Year's Eve command premium pricing, while shoulder seasons offer better value.Food costs reflect Iceland's need to import most ingredients, but the quality is generally excellent. Restaurant meals range from $15-25 for casual dining to $50-100 or more for fine dining experiences. Many travelers save money by shopping at grocery stores like Bonus or Kronan, where you can find reasonable prices on basic supplies. Don't miss trying Icelandic specialties like fresh seafood, lamb, and dairy products, which offer excellent value despite higher costs.Transportation costs depend heavily on your chosen travel style. Rental cars provide the most flexibility and can be cost-effective for groups, with prices ranging from $40-100 per day depending on vehicle type and season. Guided tours eliminate driving concerns and often provide better value when you factor in guide expertise, equipment, and access to locations that might be challenging to reach independently.Activity costs vary widely, from free experiences like exploring Reykjavik or hiking accessible trails, to premium experiences like helicopter tours or multi-day highland expeditions that can cost several hundred dollars per person. Many of Iceland's most spectacular attractions, including most waterfalls, geysers, and scenic viewpoints, are free to visit, allowing budget-conscious travelers to experience Iceland's natural wonders without breaking the bank.

The Northern Lights, or Aurora Borealis, represent one of Iceland's most sought-after experiences, and the island offers some of the world's best conditions for aurora viewing. Iceland's position just south of the Arctic Circle, combined with relatively stable weather patterns and minimal light pollution outside Reykjavik, creates ideal circumstances for northern lights observation.The northern lights season in Iceland runs from approximately mid-September through mid-April, with peak activity typically occurring during the equinoxes in October and March. During these months, the combination of sufficient darkness and increased solar activity creates optimal viewing conditions. The lights are visible on clear nights when solar activity is sufficient, which occurs roughly 60-70% of clear nights during peak season.Several factors influence your northern lights viewing success. Cloud cover is the primary obstacle, as the aurora occurs high in the atmosphere above cloud level. Iceland's weather can be unpredictable, but the country's diverse geography means that clear skies in one area don't guarantee clear skies elsewhere. This is why multi-day stays significantly improve your chances, as you have multiple opportunities and can potentially travel to areas with better weather conditions.Moon phases also affect northern lights viewing, though not in the way many people expect. While a new moon provides the darkest skies for photography, a partial moon actually enhances the experience by illuminating the landscape, creating stunning foreground elements for photographs and making it easier to navigate safely in dark conditions. Full moons can wash out fainter aurora displays but won't prevent you from seeing strong displays.FAR Travel's northern lights tours are designed to maximize your success through expert local knowledge, flexible scheduling, and access to optimal viewing locations. Our guides monitor weather forecasts, aurora predictions, and local conditions to determine the best viewing locations each night. We also provide professional photography guidance, helping you capture stunning images of the aurora while ensuring you don't miss the experience by spending too much time behind the camera.The northern lights experience extends beyond simply seeing the aurora. Many travelers describe a profound emotional response to witnessing this natural phenomenon, often citing it as a life-changing experience. The combination of Iceland's dramatic landscapes, the silence of winter nights, and the ethereal beauty of the dancing lights creates memories that last a lifetime.

Iceland's glaciers represent some of the most accessible and spectacular ice formations in the world, covering approximately 11% of the country's landmass. These ancient rivers of ice have shaped Iceland's landscape for millennia, carving the dramatic valleys, fjords, and mountains that define the island's character. Unlike many glacier destinations that require extensive mountaineering experience, Iceland's glaciers offer opportunities for travelers of various skill levels to experience these frozen wonders safely.Vatnajökull, Europe's largest glacier by volume, dominates southeastern Iceland and serves as the source for numerous outlet glaciers that flow toward the sea. This massive ice cap, covering an area larger than all other European glaciers combined, creates a diverse range of glacier experiences. From the easily accessible Sólheimajökull glacier near the Ring Road to the remote and challenging Vatnajökull ice caves, this glacier system offers something for every adventurer.Glacier hiking represents one of Iceland's most popular activities, providing intimate access to these frozen landscapes. Proper equipment is essential for glacier travel, including crampons for traction on ice, helmets for protection from falling ice, and harnesses for crevasse rescue if needed. FAR Travel provides all necessary technical equipment and ensures that all glacier activities are led by certified glacier guides with extensive local knowledge and rescue training.Ice caves offer perhaps the most magical glacier experience, providing access to otherworldly blue chambers carved by flowing water within the glacier. These natural cathedrals of ice change constantly as the glacier moves and melts, meaning each visit offers a unique experience. The famous crystal ice caves of Vatnajökull are accessible primarily during winter months when the caves are stable and safe for visitation.Safety on glaciers requires respect for the dynamic nature of these ice formations. Glaciers are constantly moving, creating crevasses, seracs, and other hazards that can be invisible to untrained eyes. Weather conditions can change rapidly on glaciers, with wind, fog, and temperature fluctuations creating challenging conditions. This is why professional guidance is not just recommended but essential for glacier activities.The environmental significance of Iceland's glaciers extends beyond their beauty and adventure opportunities. These ice formations serve as climate indicators, with their retreat and advance patterns providing valuable data about climate change. Many of Iceland's glaciers have retreated significantly in recent decades, making current opportunities to experience them even more precious and meaningful.

Iceland's culture represents a unique blend of ancient Nordic traditions and modern innovation, creating a society that honors its heritage while embracing contemporary creativity. Experiencing authentic Icelandic culture requires moving beyond tourist attractions to engage with the daily life, traditions, and values that define this remarkable island nation.The foundation of Icelandic culture lies in its literary tradition, which stretches back over a thousand years to the medieval sagas. These epic tales of Viking-era heroes, family feuds, and exploration adventures remain central to Icelandic identity. Modern Iceland maintains one of the world's highest rates of book publication and consumption per capita, with Reykjavik serving as a UNESCO City of Literature. Visiting independent bookstores, attending literary events, or exploring the culture house provides insight into this literary heritage.Icelandic cuisine has evolved dramatically in recent decades, transforming from a survival-based diet to a sophisticated culinary scene that celebrates local ingredients and traditional techniques. Traditional foods like fermented shark, dried fish, and lamb soup reflect the resourcefulness required to survive in a harsh climate, while modern Icelandic cuisine incorporates these traditional elements into innovative preparations. Experiencing authentic Icelandic food culture means trying both traditional dishes and contemporary interpretations at local restaurants.The concept of "þetta reddast" (roughly translated as "it will work out") represents a fundamental aspect of Icelandic character. This optimistic pragmatism reflects the resilience required to thrive in Iceland's challenging environment and manifests in the country's innovative problem-solving approach and strong social cohesion. You'll observe this attitude in how Icelanders approach challenges, from weather disruptions to economic difficulties.Music plays a central role in Icelandic culture, with the country producing an remarkable number of internationally successful artists relative to its small population. From Björk's avant-garde compositions to Sigur Rós's ethereal soundscapes, Icelandic music often reflects the country's dramatic landscapes and introspective character. Attending concerts, visiting record stores, or exploring Reykjavik's vibrant music scene provides authentic cultural experiences.Geothermal culture represents a uniquely Icelandic phenomenon, with hot springs and geothermal pools serving as social gathering places for centuries. The tradition of communal bathing in natural hot springs continues today in both natural locations and constructed facilities like the Blue Lagoon and local swimming pools. These spaces serve as democratic meeting places where social barriers dissolve in the warm waters.

Iceland's dramatic landscapes and diverse ecosystems create opportunities for outdoor activities that range from gentle nature walks to challenging expeditions. The country's compact size means you can experience multiple environments and activities within a single trip, from coastal adventures to highland expeditions, glacier explorations to volcanic landscapes.Hiking in Iceland offers experiences for every skill level, from easy walks around Reykjavik's Perlan area to challenging multi-day treks through the highlands. The Laugavegur trail, often cited as one of the world's most beautiful hiking routes, takes trekkers through a landscape of colorful rhyolite mountains, black sand deserts, and steaming geothermal areas. Day hiking options include accessible trails to waterfalls like Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss, where you can walk behind cascading water or climb alongside powerful torrents.Water-based activities take advantage of Iceland's extensive coastline and pristine rivers. Sea kayaking around the Westman Islands provides opportunities to observe puffins and other seabirds in their natural habitat, while river rafting on glacial rivers offers thrilling rides through dramatic canyons. The Silfra fissure in Þingvellir National Park provides world-class snorkeling and diving opportunities in crystal-clear water between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates.Winter activities transform Iceland into a playground for cold-weather enthusiasts. Snowmobiling across glaciers provides access to remote areas impossible to reach by other means, while cross-country skiing and snowshoeing offer quieter ways to explore winter landscapes. Ice climbing on frozen waterfalls presents technical challenges for experienced climbers, while beginners can try ice walking on glacier surfaces.Horseback riding on Icelandic horses offers a uniquely Icelandic experience, as these hardy animals possess a special gait called the tölt that provides an incredibly smooth ride across rough terrain. These horses, descended from animals brought by the first settlers over a thousand years ago, have adapted perfectly to Iceland's conditions and remain an integral part of the country's culture and transportation history.Photography enthusiasts find Iceland irresistible, with dramatic landscapes, unique lighting conditions, and constantly changing weather creating endless opportunities for stunning images. The country's position near the Arctic Circle means extreme variations in daylight hours, from nearly 24-hour daylight in summer to just a few hours of twilight in winter. These conditions, combined with Iceland's dramatic scenery, create opportunities for landscape photography that exist nowhere else on Earth.

The choice between self-drive and guided tours in Iceland depends on your travel style, comfort level with driving in challenging conditions, and desired level of independence versus expert guidance. Both options offer distinct advantages for exploring Iceland's remarkable landscapes and attractions.Self-drive tours provide maximum flexibility and independence, allowing you to set your own pace and spend as much time as desired at locations that capture your interest. Iceland's Ring Road is well-maintained and accessible to standard vehicles during summer months, making self-drive tours feasible for most travelers with basic driving experience. The freedom to stop spontaneously for photographs, explore unmarked trails, or extend your stay at particularly beautiful locations represents a significant advantage of self-drive travel.However, self-drive tours in Iceland require careful consideration of several factors. Weather conditions can change rapidly, and driving in Iceland presents unique challenges including single-lane bridges, gravel roads, strong winds, and potentially icy conditions even during summer months. Navigation can be challenging in remote areas with limited signage, and some of Iceland's most spectacular attractions require four-wheel-drive vehicles and experience with challenging terrain.Guided group tours eliminate driving concerns while providing expert local knowledge that significantly enhances your Iceland experience. FAR Travel's Iceland guides possess intimate knowledge of local conditions, hidden gems, and cultural insights that independent travelers often miss. Our small group sizes, typically limited to 12-16 participants, ensure personalized attention and flexibility that larger tour groups cannot provide.The educational value of guided tours extends beyond simple transportation and logistics. Our guides share geological insights about Iceland's volcanic activity, cultural stories about local traditions, and practical knowledge about weather patterns, wildlife behavior, and optimal photography techniques. This expertise often transforms good experiences into extraordinary ones, as guides know exactly when and where to find the best lighting, wildlife activity, or cultural experiences.

Iceland's popularity as a travel destination has grown dramatically in recent years, making advance booking increasingly important for securing your preferred travel dates, accommodations, and activities. The optimal booking timeline varies by season, with summer months and northern lights season requiring the most advance planning.Summer travel to Iceland, particularly during the peak months of June through August, should be booked 4-6 months in advance to ensure availability of preferred accommodations and tours. This period coincides with Iceland's most accessible weather conditions, midnight sun phenomenon, and highland road openings, making it the most popular time for international visitors. Popular accommodations, especially unique properties like converted farmhouses or boutique hotels, often book solid during peak summer months.Northern lights season, spanning from September through April, presents different booking considerations. While accommodations may be more readily available than during summer peak, specialized northern lights tours and unique winter experiences like ice cave explorations have limited capacity and should be booked well in advance. The most popular northern lights tours, particularly those combining aurora viewing with other activities, often sell out months ahead of time.Shoulder seasons of spring and autumn offer more booking flexibility while still providing excellent Iceland experiences. These periods often feature fewer crowds, competitive pricing, and good availability for both accommodations and activities. However, weather conditions can be more variable during shoulder seasons, requiring flexibility in your itinerary and potentially backup plans for weather-dependent activities.Last-minute travel to Iceland is possible but requires significant flexibility in your expectations and itinerary. While you may find available accommodations and tours, you'll have limited choices and may miss out on popular experiences or preferred lodging options. Last-minute travelers often end up paying premium prices for remaining availability, particularly during peak seasons.

FAR Travel's Iceland packages are designed to provide comprehensive, worry-free experiences that allow you to focus on enjoying Iceland's remarkable landscapes and culture rather than managing logistics and details. Our all-inclusive approach eliminates hidden costs and unpleasant surprises while ensuring high-quality experiences throughout your journey.Accommodation represents a cornerstone of our Iceland packages, featuring carefully selected properties that reflect Iceland's character while providing comfort and quality. Our accommodations range from boutique hotels in Reykjavik that showcase contemporary Icelandic design to converted farmhouses in rural areas that provide authentic countryside experiences. We prioritize properties with strong environmental commitments, reflecting Iceland's leadership in sustainable tourism and renewable energy use.All ground transportation within Iceland is included in our packages, whether through comfortable touring vehicles for guided experiences or rental cars for self-drive adventures. Our guided tours utilize modern, well-maintained vehicles equipped with safety equipment and communication devices for remote area travel. Self-drive packages include comprehensive insurance coverage, unlimited mileage, and 24/7 roadside assistance to ensure your safety and peace of mind.Professional guide services represent a significant value component of our guided tours, providing local expertise that transforms sightseeing into educational and cultural experiences. Our guides possess extensive knowledge of Iceland's geology, history, culture, and current events, offering insights that independent travelers rarely access. They also handle all logistics, from restaurant reservations to activity coordination, allowing you to relax and enjoy your experience.All specified activities and entrance fees are included in our packages, from glacier hiking equipment and ice cave access to geothermal pool admissions and cultural site visits. We provide specialized equipment for technical activities, ensuring safety and comfort while eliminating the need to purchase or transport bulky gear. Photography workshops, when included, feature professional instruction and equipment recommendations to help you capture stunning images of Iceland's landscapes.Meals are included based on the specific package selected, ranging from daily breakfast to comprehensive meal plans that showcase Iceland's evolving culinary scene. Our meal selections emphasize local ingredients and traditional preparations while accommodating dietary restrictions and preferences. We particularly enjoy introducing travelers to Icelandic specialties like fresh seafood, grass-fed lamb, and innovative preparations of traditional ingredients.Emergency support and communication services provide peace of mind throughout your Iceland adventure. Our guides carry satellite communication devices for areas without cellular coverage, and our 24/7 emergency response center can coordinate assistance for any situation that might arise. This support system ensures that help is always available, regardless of your location in Iceland.

Weather flexibility represents an essential component of successful Iceland travel, as the island's North Atlantic location and diverse topography create conditions that can change rapidly and dramatically. FAR Travel's approach to weather management balances safety with experience quality, ensuring that weather challenges become opportunities for alternative discoveries rather than disappointments.Our pre-departure planning includes detailed discussions about weather variability and the importance of maintaining flexible expectations. We educate travelers about Iceland's weather patterns, helping them understand that weather changes are part of the authentic Iceland experience rather than obstacles to overcome. This preparation helps travelers embrace weather variations as opportunities to see Iceland in different moods and conditions.Real-time weather monitoring allows our guides to make informed decisions about daily activities and routing. We maintain contact with Icelandic meteorological services, local authorities, and other tour operators to stay informed about current conditions and forecasts. This information network enables proactive decision-making that prioritizes safety while maximizing experience quality.When weather conditions make planned activities unsafe or impossible, we implement alternative experiences that maintain the spirit and value of your original itinerary. For example, if high winds prevent glacier hiking, we might substitute a visit to a geothermal area or cultural site that provides equally memorable experiences while ensuring safety. Our extensive local knowledge and partnerships enable us to create exceptional alternative experiences on short notice.Our guides view weather adaptations as opportunities to showcase Iceland's diversity and their local expertise. Some of the most memorable Iceland experiences occur during weather events that initially seem challenging. Dramatic storm clouds over glaciers, snow-covered volcanic landscapes, or powerful winds creating spectacular wave action often become the highlights of travelers' experiences.

Iceland's remote locations and challenging weather conditions make comprehensive emergency support essential for safe and confident travel. FAR Travel maintains extensive emergency protocols and support systems designed to handle any situation that might arise during your Iceland adventure, from minor inconveniences to serious emergencies requiring immediate response.Our primary emergency support begins with prevention through comprehensive pre-departure preparation, experienced local guides, and high-quality equipment. We brief all travelers on safety protocols, provide detailed information about potential hazards, and ensure that everyone understands their role in maintaining group safety. This proactive approach prevents most emergency situations from developing.Communication systems ensure that help is always accessible, regardless of your location in Iceland. Our guides carry satellite communication devices that function in areas without cellular coverage, maintaining contact with our emergency response center and local authorities. These devices enable immediate communication for both emergency situations and routine coordination needs.Our 24/7 emergency response center staffs experienced professionals who understand Iceland's unique challenges and maintain relationships with local emergency services, medical facilities, and transportation providers. This center can coordinate complex emergency responses including medical evacuations, weather-related relocations, or family emergency communications. The response center also handles non-emergency situations like flight changes, accommodation issues, or itinerary modifications.Medical emergency protocols include immediate first aid by trained guides, rapid communication with medical professionals, and coordination with Iceland's excellent emergency medical services. Iceland's healthcare system is modern and efficient, with emergency services available throughout the country. Our guides carry comprehensive first aid supplies and maintain current certifications in wilderness first aid or wilderness first responder training.Evacuation procedures are pre-planned for all locations visited during FAR Travel experiences. We maintain relationships with helicopter services, ground transportation providers, and medical facilities to ensure rapid response when needed. Our comprehensive travel insurance partnerships provide coverage for emergency evacuation costs, eliminating financial concerns during emergency situations.