Included: Experienced, local guides dedicated to creating a meaningful experience All-women winter hiking tour, either a 7-day Christmas adventure in Iceland or 7-day New Year’s adventure in Iceland Guided hikes that challenge and inspire, as in the itinerary Accommodation for 6 nights that balances comfort with nature’s embrace Entrances to hot pools Thrilling snowmobile adventure Guided glacier walk and ice climbing experience City walking tour Transportation for all activities Meals as indicated in the itinerary All scheduled activities and entrances Add-ons (available to add at checkout): Single occupancy room Not included: Flights to Iceland Airport transfers Accommodations prior to and after the tour Some meals (detailed in the itinerary) Travel and medical insurance — optional Guide gratuities — optional

How fit do I need to be?

These Iceland Northern Light package holidays are beginner-friendly ! These will be exciting and festive tours, giving you the opportunity to explore Iceland’s natural wonders as well as its culture and traditions during Christmas and New Year’s time. You will walk a couple of hours a day, one day you’ll even go on a glacier hike (and possibly ice climb!), but it’s all suitable for beginners.

Will we see Northern Lights?

The Northern Lights are a natural phenomenon, so while a sighting cannot be guaranteed, December & January are one of the best times to see them in Iceland due to the long, dark nights . During your 7-day tour, mostly in Reykjavík and along the South Coast, you’ll have good chances—especially in rural areas with minimal light pollution.

What do I need to bring?

Here’s a list of clothing & footwear you need to bring: Waterproof hiking boots (with padded ankle and good arch support, well broken in, suitable for rocky terrain and snow) Casual clothing for the evenings Down jacket Winter pants Underwear Synthetic or wool thermals Long-sleeved synthetic or wool shirt Towel & swimsuit Synthetic or wool fleece Sun & rain hat Wool hat Gloves (wool or pile) Waterproof membrane gloves Wool socks GoreTex rain/wind jacket GoreTex rain/wind pants Buff or face covering Here’s a list of personal items & equipment you need to bring: Daypack (large enough to fit all items you might need throughout the day) Main luggage (which will be transported to the hotels) Waterproof cover for your daypack Sunglasses Water bottle or water bladder Sunscreen Hand sanitizer Hiking poles (optional) Camera (optional) Medicine Hygiene and beauty products Towel Cash or a debit/credit card Your main luggage will be transported by transport vehicle, and you will not have access to it until you reach your accommodation in the afternoon. Everything needed for the day’s trek must be in your daypack. You are allowed to take one piece of luggage on the tour. Your guide advises you not to bring a massive one—there are luggage lockers at four centrally located places in Reykjavik where you can store your extra luggage. For your own well-being and safety, we strongly suggest following the advice of this equipment list. This includes having good quality rain gear, tops, and bottoms. Cotton clothing is not appropriate for any strenuous outdoor activity—nor are jeans and cotton t-shirts. Modern outdoor clothing is by far more comfortable and will greatly improve your experience.

What does a "women-only tour" mean?

A women-only tour is designed to create a supportive, respectful, and empowering space for women to travel together. These departures are open to women, including transgender women, and are intentionally hosted without men. The focus is on a women-centred group dynamic, where everyone is expected to show consideration and respect for one another. This approach reflects our values and the way these trips are thoughtfully designed and guided.

Group sizes and age requirements

Group sizes and prices: For these Iceland Northern Lights package holidays, the usual client-to-guide ratio is 16:1. It takes a minimum of 6 people for this tour to operate. The maximum group size is set at 16 participants. Solo travelers are welcomed and encouraged to sign up—you can either opt for a single supplement or you can choose to share a room with one of your fellow travelers! Note that a single supplement will never be enforced—in case there’s an odd number of travellers, solo travellers will take turns staying in single rooms. Iceland Northern Lights package holidays can be arranged for larger groups. Contact us to make arrangements. Min. age requirements: If you are older than 18, you’re good to go.

Getting there and meeting location

To get to Reykjavik, the starting point of your Iceland Northern Lights package holidays, fly into Keflavik International Airport (KEF) . From there, you have a 45-minute drive to Reykjavik by bus or a cab. Buses leave the airport every hour, 24/7, so you don’t have to worry about getting delayed. You’ll meet your guide and your group on Day 1 of the tour! It’s recommended that you either pick an early-morning flight so you get to seize the day or spend the night in Reykjavik a night prior to your adventure.

Safety measures and insurance

We highly recommend that you cover all your bases with both emergency medical and travel insurance. To make your booking and traveling experience as carefree as possible , we partnered up with Redpoint—the official 57hours insurance partner ! Redpoint tailors their insurance packages for adventure travel, offering a comprehensive travel program, even in remote locations. Trip cancellation, natural disasters, pandemic coverage, medical evacuation, primary medical expenses—regardless of the travel interruption that may happen, Redpoint will have you covered. Once your booking is confirmed and your trip is paid in full, you will be offered to purchase Redpoint’s insurance. If you need any help or require more information, let us know and we will be happy to help!

Check out Early bird options for best sellers here

Winter wonderland in Iceland, wellness retreat

REYKJAVIK | ICELAND

All-Women Hiking in Iceland: A Festive Winter Retreat

7 days | Easy | 5.00

From $4,080 ()

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No place in the world can match the magic of Christmas in Iceland. So what better way to end your year or start a new one than by heading on a 7-day, women’s retreat in this otherworldly country! Despite the cold weather, these trips ooze warmth and coziness, and they were created by Saga—an Icelandic local guide who will lead you through winter’s best-ofs and help you unleash your inner Valkyrie in the great outdoors. You will thrive in the company of like-minded ladies and explore Iceland’s surreal nature by glacier walking, hiking, ice climbing, snowmobiling, and so much more. There will also be plenty of time for relaxing in hot pools and soaking up the vibes of Christmas and New Year’s festivities. Come for a retreat, leave with lifelong memories and new friendships!

Adventure Highlights

Best time to see Northern Lights: The dark and long nights are the perfect setting for ethereal lights to glow up the skies
One-of-a-kind experience: Explore the underground realm of ice caves, tour the Golden Circle, do some glacier walking & ice climbing
Enjoy festivities in Iceland: Experience Christmas time and New Year’s Eve in one of the most spectacular destinations on the planet

Duration

7 days

Season

December and January

Group size

Up to 16 people

The adventure, day by day

Download itineraries

A week of festivities, fun activities, and thrilling hikes awaits! Iceland turns into a magical wonderland for Christmas time, where everything is adorned with twinkling lights, and the streets and trails come alive with holiday cheer. This 7-day Christmas adventure in Iceland checks all the boxes: the surreal Golden Circle, exciting adventures such as ice climbing and glacier walking, mesmerizing ice caves, snowmobiling, the charming Reykjavik and so much more! This all-women retreat promises to be a time of celebration, connecting, and making cherished memories that will warm your heart for years to come.

Day 1: Arrival & welcome dinner

Arrive in Reykjavik and feel the wonderful Christmas atmosphere of the city as soon as you land. Our journey kicks off with a delightful welcome dinner, setting the tone for an unforgettable winter escape!

Meals: Dinner

Day 2: Christmas in Reykjavik

Immerse yourself in the joyful atmosphere of Reykjavik during the holiday season! We will explore charming Christmas markets and wander through the city’s winter wonderland. Get to know your guide and your great team of women!

Meals: Breakfast

Day 3: Golden Circle & Greenhouse lunch

Today is all about the Golden Circle, a 190-mile route of Iceland’s three major natural attractions. We’ll walk in the seismic rift valley of the Thingvellir National Park, marvel at the highly active Geysir Geothermal Area, and feel the drizzle of the 105-foot-tall Gullfoss, the golden falls. We will then go to a unique greenhouse lunch, connecting with local flavors that thrive in the magical winter environment. Dinner will be at the hotel in the evening.

Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner

Day 4: South Coast Adventure

Today, we’ll embark on an exhilarating journey along the stunning South Coast. Experience the thrill of a glacier walk and ice climbing, creating lifelong memories. End the day with a relaxing dinner with your group at the hotel.

Meals: Breakfast and dinner

Day 5: Mesmerizing ice caves

Ice caves and winter adventure in Iceland

Let’s venture into the heart of Iceland’s ice caves and marvel at their ethereal beauty. A day of wonder and exploration awaits! Dinner is at the hotel.

Meals: Breakfast and dinner

Day 6: Snowmobile, local pool & farewell dinner

Another day, another exciting activity. Today we’ll hop on a snowmobile and zip across Iceland’s pristine winter landscapes. Following the exhilarating ride, relax in a local pool, and then gather with your group for a farewell dinner in Reykjavik.

Meals: Breakfast and dinner

Day 7: Spa relaxation & departure

Today’s our last day, but we’ll make the best of it by indulging in relaxation at a serene spa—a perfect way to end a week of adventure. Bid farewell to Iceland, taking with you cherished memories and newfound friends as you depart.

Meals: Breakfast

Get ready to ring in the New Year like never before! Iceland and Reykjavik turn into a winter wonderland during Christmas time and New Year’s, making it a wonderful setting for a 7-day, all-women adventure. Apart from one of the most exciting nights, you can also look forward to thrilling activities, such as ice climbing, glacier walking, snowmobiling, marveling at ice caves, and hiking the Golden Circle! The trip ends with a serene spa day, allowing you to unwind and process the wonderful week behind you. So come to Iceland and welcome the New Year with traditional bonfires in one of the most extraordinary destinations on the planet!

Day 1: Arrival & welcome dinner

Meals: Dinner

Day 2: Mesmerizing ice caves

Let’s venture into the heart of Iceland’s ice caves and marvel at their ethereal beauty. A day of wonder and exploration awaits! Dinner is at the hotel.

Meals: Breakfast and dinner

Day 3: Golden Circle & Greenhouse lunch

Meals: Breakfast and lunch

Day 4: South Coast Adventure

Meals: Breakfast

Day 5: Reykjavik, bonfire, and New Year’s Eve!

Discover Reykjavik’s charms with a city walk and join a bonfire gathering. Prepare for one of the most exciting nights as you relish a festive New Year’s Eve dinner! Step into the New Year with a breathtaking fireworks display, and set a good atmosphere for the year to come.

Meals: Breakfast and dinner

Day 6: Snowmobile, local pool & farewell dinner

Meals: Breakfast and dinner

Day 7: Spa relaxation & departure

Today’s your last day, but you’ll make the best of it by indulging in relaxation at a serene spa—a perfect way to end a week of adventure. Bid farewell to Iceland, taking with you cherished memories and newfound friends as you depart.

Meals: Breakfast

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Accommodation

The Exeter Hotel

A huge part of this trip is where you’ll be staying at and resting after a day out. Your guide has carefully selected the very best hotels for the ultimate indulgence and relaxation. Unless you choose a single supplement at checkout, you’ll share a twin room with a fellow traveller.

The Exeter Hotel, nestled in the heart of Reykjavik by the Old Harbor, is a highly modern and comfortable house of style, ideal for recharging your batteries. There’s an in-house restaurant and a bakery, as well as a sauna and a fitness room. Each room is designed with industrial décor, modern furnishing, and wooden floors. You’ll have a smart TV, a Nespresso coffee machine, and a refrigerator at your disposal.

Highland Base Kerlingarfjöll

For your days in the Highlands, you’ll stay at the Highland Base Kerlingarfjöll. This newly built hotel is designed for total comfort, oozing a warm and welcoming atmosphere. It’s a wonderful gateway to a mesmerizing mountain range, and it’s always a good idea to sit by your window and look at the beautiful landscapes.

The ION Adventure Hotel

The ION Adventure Hotel is set against a backdrop of majestic mountainous lava fields, and it’s located by the Golden Circle route. You’ll stay in comfortable and cozy organic bedrooms with terrific views, but the hotel also has an inviting natural spa with a sauna and an outdoor hot pool, a lively Northern lights bar, and a great restaurant.

Adventure, packed to go

All-Women Hiking in Iceland: A Festive Winter Retreat

Adventure Brochure

Adventure brochure

Download to share and explore full itineraries, key info, FAQs, and guide details.

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Meet your guides

Seasoned pros, local legends, and passionate adventurers—your trip is in the best hands.

5.00

Saga

A self-described nature addict, Saga has always been drawn to the beauty of Iceland’s natural world. She became a guide to help other women unleash their inner Valkyries and make meaningful connections through awe-inspiring adventures. Saga is the CEO and trekking guide of a company that focuses on all-women trips in Iceland and Greenland, sometimes combining wellness with the counties' otherworldly landscapes.

5.00

Auður

Auður, known as Audi (like the car, but more fun), is a 49-year-old Icelander with decades of experience exploring her country’s wild landscapes, alongside raising three adventurous children. Certified as a trekking guide in 2022 and a yoga instructor since 2019, she loves blending the serenity of yoga with the thrill of hiking. Always up for a cold-water plunge, she encourages travelers to embrace Iceland like a local. Auður believes true growth happens outside the comfort zone—whether climbing mountains, stretching under the northern lights, or sharing stories on the trail.

5.00

Snæsa

Snæsa is completely obsessed with hiking, with Laugavegur as her favorite trail in the universe. She is thrilled to guide women-only adventures there, bringing epic views, good vibes, and unforgettable memories. When she’s not conquering mountain trails, she is skiing, climbing, doing CrossFit, or chasing any outdoor adventure that keeps her moving. Snæsa loves spending a week off the grid with fellow nature lovers—no Wi-Fi, just fresh air, great company, and the pure joy of being outdoors.

5.00

Ingibjörg

Ingibjörg grew up in a cozy village on Iceland’s east coast, where summers were spent camping under the stars and winters skiing down snowy slopes. A kindergarten teacher and founder of her own preschool south of Reykjavik, she has nurtured a passion for hiking for over 30 years. A certified hiking guide, Ingibjörg leads adventures through Iceland’s mountains, revealing hidden gems while carefully tailoring each experience to participants’ needs. When not guiding or teaching, she enjoys running, yoga, walking her dog Nóí, and cozying up with knitting.

5.00

Sigrún

Born and raised in the land of fire and ice, Sigrún is a proud mother of three lively sons, two mischievous cats, and a majestic horse. When not wrangling her crew, she’s out adventuring in the great outdoors, sharing her love for Iceland and Greenland with curious travelers. Passionate about her country’s history, geology, and legendary Sagas, she weaves stories with personal flair. Fluent in Icelandic, English, and German, she enjoys bridging worlds through language and culture. By day, she’s a director and actress with a Master’s in Communication in Culture, and as a certified guide and driver guide, she makes every journey a quirky, memorable story waiting to unfold.

5.00

Gunnur

Gunnur—known simply as G—is 51 laps around the sun, fueled by Icelandic coffee, chocolate, and the thrill of meeting fellow adventurers. Born and raised in the land of ice and fire, she splits her time between sprinting up hills, hiking wild trails, and practicing the art of physical therapy. When she’s not guiding or coaching trail running, she incorporates optional pre-adventure warmups and recovery stretching on every trip, ensuring participants feel strong and relaxed. With over 10 years of guiding experience, G loves welcoming travelers to Iceland, helping them create memories, and maybe even discovering their new favorite stretch along the way.

5.00

Rakel

Rakel is an entrepreneurial engineer, executive coach with a background in psychology, Search and Rescue volunteer, Certified Wilderness First Responder, and Glacier Guide. Passionate about both the outdoors and human potential, she has spent over a decade navigating complex systems, from boardrooms to the Icelandic highlands. Her guiding style blends logic with intuition, grit with compassion, and is always grounded in empowerment and safety. A strong advocate for women stepping boldly into their own strength, Rakel sees nature not just as a backdrop but as a catalyst for transformation, inviting travelers to reconnect with resilience, courage, and joy—one step at a time.

5.00

Lísa

Lísa was born and raised amidst Iceland’s wild landscapes and has turned the outdoors into her playground. Whether climbing mountains, crossing glaciers, or biking rugged trails, she thrives in nature. With a degree in adventure guiding from Thompson Rivers University in British Columbia and advanced training from the Association of Icelandic Mountain Guides, she combines skill with daring spirit. Over the years, she has become one of Iceland’s trusted guides, leading adventurers through icy labyrinths and towering summits. When not guiding, she explores new corners of the world while cherishing time with her family. Adventurer, storyteller, and true Icelandic mountain muse, Lísa lives for the next big journey.

5.00

Dorcas

Dorcas is a mountain-loving, outdoor-obsessed explorer whose passion for hiking, climbing, and conquering nature’s playground made guiding her lifelong dream turned reality. When she’s not chasing sunsets, scrambling up trails, or leading groups with fearless energy, she’s practicing yoga, capturing life through her camera, or spending time with her favorite people. Her mission is to ensure every journey is unforgettable—filled with laughter, adventure, and a few happy surprises along the way.

What others say about this adventure

5.00 (3 reviews)

Cris & Janine

Saga was our tour guide in December 2019 – we don’t normally go on tours, but not wanting to drive in Iceland in winter and not knowing the language or culture we thought it best to try a tour. Definitely the best decision ever!!! Saga was brilliant!!! She’s friendly, young, full of energy without being over the top, competent, knowledgeable, accommodating (we had someone with a broken foot on our tour and the lengths Saga went to, so that she could participate, were so far above & beyond the call of duty it was phenomenal). Saga also had a wonderful way of incorporating a relevant story of Icelandic Culture into whatever adventure we were embarking on – we could’ve listened to so many more hours of her stories (and Love the accent!). Absolutely fantastic – Highly recommended!!

Madelon

Saga guided us through beautiful Iceland. I was impressed by Iceland, but also impressed by Saga! Very engaging lady with many talents: from active walk guide, and cool driver, to relaxing meditation mentor, with beautiful storytelling about the history and culture of Iceland. Takk fyrir, Saga!

Katie Dehl

Saga’s endless energy, positivity and sense of fun made the trek even more enjoyable. Saga was able to respond to challenging and changing circumstances with calm and excellent problem solving skills. I felt safe and had complete confidence in her ability. A true brave and strong Viking woman!

Show all reviews

Cris & Janine

Madelon

Katie Dehl

Things to know

Included:
- - Experienced, local guides dedicated to creating a meaningful experience
  - All-women winter hiking tour, either a 7-day Christmas adventure in Iceland or 7-day New Year’s adventure in Iceland
  - Guided hikes that challenge and inspire, as in the itinerary
  - Accommodation for 6 nights that balances comfort with nature’s embrace
  - Entrances to hot pools
  - Thrilling snowmobile adventure
  - Guided glacier walk and ice climbing experience
  - City walking tour
  - Transportation for all activities
  - Meals as indicated in the itinerary
  - All scheduled activities and entrances
Add-ons (available to add at checkout):
- - Single occupancy room
Not included:
- - Flights to Iceland
  - Airport transfers
  - Accommodations prior to and after the tour
  - Some meals (detailed in the itinerary)
  - Travel and medical insurance — optional
  - Guide gratuities — optional
These Iceland Northern Light package holidays are beginner-friendly! These will be exciting and festive tours, giving you the opportunity to explore Iceland’s natural wonders as well as its culture and traditions during Christmas and New Year’s time. You will walk a couple of hours a day, one day you’ll even go on a glacier hike (and possibly ice climb!), but it’s all suitable for beginners.
The Northern Lights are a natural phenomenon, so while a sighting cannot be guaranteed, December & January are one of the best times to see them in Iceland due to the long, dark nights. During your 7-day tour, mostly in Reykjavík and along the South Coast, you’ll have good chances—especially in rural areas with minimal light pollution.
Here’s a list of clothing & footwear you need to bring:
- - Waterproof hiking boots (with padded ankle and good arch support, well broken in, suitable for rocky terrain and snow)
  - Casual clothing for the evenings
  - Down jacket
  - Winter pants
  - Underwear
  - Synthetic or wool thermals
  - Long-sleeved synthetic or wool shirt
  - Towel & swimsuit
  - Synthetic or wool fleece
  - Sun & rain hat
  - Wool hat
  - Gloves (wool or pile)
  - Waterproof membrane gloves
  - Wool socks
  - GoreTex rain/wind jacket
  - GoreTex rain/wind pants
  - Buff or face covering
Here’s a list of personal items & equipment you need to bring:
- - Daypack (large enough to fit all items you might need throughout the day)
  - Main luggage (which will be transported to the hotels)
  - Waterproof cover for your daypack
  - Sunglasses
  - Water bottle or water bladder
  - Sunscreen
  - Hand sanitizer
  - Hiking poles (optional)
  - Camera (optional)
  - Medicine
  - Hygiene and beauty products
  - Towel
  - Cash or a debit/credit card
Your main luggage will be transported by transport vehicle, and you will not have access to it until you reach your accommodation in the afternoon. Everything needed for the day’s trek must be in your daypack.

You are allowed to take one piece of luggage on the tour. Your guide advises you not to bring a massive one—there are luggage lockers at four centrally located places in Reykjavik where you can store your extra luggage.

For your own well-being and safety, we strongly suggest following the advice of this equipment list. This includes having good quality rain gear, tops, and bottoms. Cotton clothing is not appropriate for any strenuous outdoor activity—nor are jeans and cotton t-shirts. Modern outdoor clothing is by far more comfortable and will greatly improve your experience.

Got everything you need? Grab your gear through Active Junky and earn cash back on top outdoor brands — plus a $10 bonus on your first $25+ purchase. Shop now at Active Junky!
A women-only tour is designed to create a supportive, respectful, and empowering space for women to travel together. These departures are open to women, including transgender women, and are intentionally hosted without men. The focus is on a women-centred group dynamic, where everyone is expected to show consideration and respect for one another. This approach reflects our values and the way these trips are thoughtfully designed and guided.
Group sizes and prices:
- - For these Iceland Northern Lights package holidays, the usual client-to-guide ratio is 16:1.
  - It takes a minimum of 6 people for this tour to operate. The maximum group size is set at 16 participants.
  - Solo travelers are welcomed and encouraged to sign up—you can either opt for a single supplement or you can choose to share a room with one of your fellow travelers! Note that a single supplement will never be enforced—in case there’s an odd number of travellers, solo travellers will take turns staying in single rooms.
Iceland Northern Lights package holidays can be arranged for larger groups. Contact us to make arrangements.

Min. age requirements:
- - If you are older than 18, you’re good to go.
To get to Reykjavik, the starting point of your Iceland Northern Lights package holidays, fly into Keflavik International Airport (KEF). From there, you have a 45-minute drive to Reykjavik by bus or a cab. Buses leave the airport every hour, 24/7, so you don’t have to worry about getting delayed.

You’ll meet your guide and your group on Day 1 of the tour! It’s recommended that you either pick an early-morning flight so you get to seize the day or spend the night in Reykjavik a night prior to your adventure.
We highly recommend that you cover all your bases with both emergency medical and travel insurance. To make your booking and traveling experience as carefree as possible, we partnered up with Redpoint—the official 57hours insurance partner!

Redpoint tailors their insurance packages for adventure travel, offering a comprehensive travel program, even in remote locations. Trip cancellation, natural disasters, pandemic coverage, medical evacuation, primary medical expenses—regardless of the travel interruption that may happen, Redpoint will have you covered.

Once your booking is confirmed and your trip is paid in full, you will be offered to purchase Redpoint’s insurance. If you need any help or require more information, let us know and we will be happy to help!
Deposits

Secure your spot with a 30% deposit upon booking! The remaining 70% of the trip price must be paid 90 days prior to departure at the latest. If booking within 90 days of departure, the full amount is required at the time of booking.

Cancellations

Booking fees are non-refundable after a 48-hour grace period. During checkout, however, you can choose one of 57hours’ flexibility options—Basic, Flexible, or Super Flexible. Depending on which one you choose, a different cancellation policy will apply to your booking.

Basic
- - If canceled within 48 hours of booking, a full refund will be issued.
  - If canceled 60 or more days before departure, a 70% refund of the total trip price will be issued.
  - If canceled within 59 days of departure, no refund will be issued.
Flexible
- - If canceled within 48 hours of booking, a full refund will be issued.
  - If canceled 60 or more days before departure, a full refund of the total trip price will be issued.
  - If canceled 30-59 days before departure, a 50% refund of the total trip price will be issued.
  - If canceled within 29 days of departure, no refund will be issued.
Super Flexible
- - If canceled within 48 hours of booking, a full refund will be issued.
  - If canceled 30 or more days before departure, a full refund of the total trip price will be issued.
  - If canceled within 29 days of departure, a 50% refund of the total trip price will be issued.

Have more questions?

Our team is here to answer your questions and plan with you.

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