Herdina Friends and Family Iceland Trip

Trip Dates: September 18 - 23, 2025 (Departing the U.S. on September 17th on an overnight flight)

 Reykjavik, the golden circle & southern Iceland

Come join us as we explore Iceland's diverse and spectacular natural environment while celebrating Nordic culture. In this expedition, we will be exploring the most stunning and awe-inspiring landscapes along Iceland’s rugged southern coast along with the infamous Golden Circle while comfortably based out of the northernmost capital of the world- Reykjavik. Join us as we celebrate time with family and a chance to see an enchanting part of the world.

On the Golden Circle we will experience Iceland’s geological wonders including the Strokkur Geysir Geothermal Area, the infamous Gullfoss Waterfall and Þingvellir National Park — where two continents are actively splitting apart. Next, we traverse along the southern coast bearing witness to glaciers, volcanoes, volcanic islands, geothermal hotspots including a thermal hot springs you can soak in, glacial rivers, basalt columns, black sand beaches, puffins, and Icelandic horses. Basing out of the Reykjavik region allows us to recharge in the community hot springs each day where the locals all congregate to share local news and enjoy a rejuvenating soak in the natural hot spring water. We will enjoy daily opportunities to stroll through the many cultural shops, cafes, museums, and embrace all that it means to be Icelandic. We return each evening to relax in our home and spend the night playing cards, storytelling, and sharing a lot of laughs! The expedition culminates in a visit to the famous Blue Lagoon Spa in the village of Grindavik.

       What you can expect

We will be navigating the country by private van, enjoying our own pace as we travel from one breathtaking location to the next. Some sites require only a short walk while others provide the opportunity for longer adventures. Those preferring time in Reykjavik or the waterfront rather than hiking on longer treks always have the option to do so. Breakfast is enjoyed at home each day with lunches prepared at the house between outings to be enjoyed while out exploring or substitute in a local eatery along the way. Dinners are adventures on their own to be enjoyed with the group in the many restaurants Reykjavik has to share or prepared in our modern home kitchen. Evenings are spent utilizing the local community geothermal steam sauna and hot tubs, playing cards with the family, or out exploring town.

Our Housing in Iceland

The group will enjoy our private home in the Reykjavik region of southwest Iceland. Depending on the size of the group two houses may be rented and shared.

Icelandic Sites we will visit

Thingvellir National Park: the most visited national park in Iceland as it is the site where the two continents are splitting apart and is also the backdrop for scenes from Game of Thrones. We will enjoy a private tour from a local historian and walk the historic sites where the government of Iceland was established.

Skogafoss: is one of Iceland’s biggest and most beautiful waterfalls found among the cliffs of the southern coastline. Climb the stairs to the very top for a bird’s eye view of the southern coast or enjoy the waterfall’s spray from the base.

Seljalandsfoss: is a spectacular waterfall you can actually hike behind. It easily lends itself to dramatic pictures. Just make sure to bring a rain jacket! It is one of Iceland’s most visited and photographed waterfalls. It is found along the base of the infamous volcano, Eyjafjallajökull, which kept all flights aground in 2010. 

Reykjavik: the cultural and economic hub of Iceland is located in the southwestern peninsula of the island. We will enjoy plenty of time here with access to local businesses, restaurants, religious places of worship, cultural centers, and seasonal festivals. 

Turf Houses: traditional turf houses made of wood, stone are scattered around the coastline and countryside. We will explore the turf homes and experience what life was all about in traditional Iceland.

Kerid Crater: Found in the Grímsnes region of the Golden Circle this dramatic crater is made up of red volcanic rock. Enjoy hiking the trail among the upper or lower rim or take the trail to the neighboring craters.

Geysir hot spring and Strokkur: This dramatic exploding geysir sits along the golden circle. You can also find vibrantly colored hot springs and boiling mud pots.  

Gulfoss: The largest waterfall in Europe (by volume) the force, sound and mist of Gulfoss is mesmerizing. It also makes a perfect stop while exploring the Golden Circle.  

The Secret Lagoon: Known locally as Gamla Laugin, is the oldest swimming pool in Iceland. An active geyser, which spouts every few minutes, provides 100% of the water supply in the lagoon.

Black Sand Beach and Puffins: Found along the south coast of Iceland the expansive black sand beach is also the site of basalt column cliffs, caves as well as nesting puffins.

Sólheimajökull Glacier: Take a short hike up to the base of one of Iceland’s most dramatic glaciers. Experience the immense size of this glacier and feel the cool breeze coming off the glacial river.

Icelandic Horses: The Icelandic horse, nearly pony size, came to Iceland along with the first settlers 1100 year ago. They are a prized and protected horse as they have been bred in isolation for the past millennium.

Reykjavik’s Community Thermal Pools: Reykjavik has many community pools to enjoy that have numerous hot tubs are varying temperatures, lap pools, and ice baths.

travel Costs: $2,900 - $3,150 + Airfare

(Depending on group size and Accomodation Selected)

What is included:

This fee covers all lodging, in-country transportation including airport pickup and drop off, daily breakfasts/lunches, all activities and park fees, a visit to the Secret Lagoon and Sky Lagoon, two experienced and energetic member of the family as guides, and 24/hr support before/during and after the family trip.

What is not included:

International airfare from the U.S. to Iceland, evening meals out to enjoy local cuisine of your choice, and souvenirs.

A note on airfare:

We are more than happy to help you book your flight. Flights typically start around $500 depending on your departure location. We will meet you at the Keflavik International Airport (airport code KEF) with our vans and whisk you to your new Icelandic home away from home. Please note, most flights from the US depart the previous night and land the following morning so you will want to book a departure flight out of the U.S on September 17th, 2025. Returning home you may book a flight departing any time on September 23rd.