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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

Available itineraries

7-Day Magical Christmas Adventure in Iceland

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.

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

    Meals: Dinner

    Reykjavik night view
  • Immerse yourself in the joyful atmosphere of Reykjavik during the holiday season. 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

    Reykjavik church during the holidays
  • Kick off the trip with a Golden Circle tour, a 190-mile route of Iceland’s three major natural attractions. 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. You will then go to a unique greenhouse lunch, connecting with local flavors that thrive in the magical winter environment. Dinner will be at your hotel in the evening.

    Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner

    Geotermal eruption at Gullfoss Geysir
  • 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

    Ice climbing in Iceland
  • 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

    Ice caves and winter adventure in Iceland
  • Another day, another exciting activity. Today you’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

    Snowmobile in Iceland
  • 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

    Vedute of Reykjavik during winter.
7-Day Festive New Year’s Adventure in Iceland

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!

  • Arrive in Reykjavik and feel the wonderful festive atmosphere of the city as soon as you land. Meet your fellow travelers and set the tone for an enriching experience!

    Reykjavik night view
  • 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

    NYE bonfire in Iceland
  • Kick off the trip with a Golden Circle tour, a 190-mile route of Iceland’s three major natural attractions. 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. You will then go to a unique greenhouse lunch, connecting with local flavors that thrive in the magical winter environment. Dinner will be at your hotel in the evening.

    Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner

    Geotermal eruption at Gullfoss Geysir
  • 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

    Ice climbing in Iceland
  • 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

    Ice caves and winter adventure in Iceland
  • Another day, another exciting activity. Today you’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

    Snowmobile in Iceland
  • 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

    Vedute of Reykjavik during winter.
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Meet your guides

Saga Líf
5.00
Saga Líf
Local guide and owner of Viking Women
Local guide and owner of Viking Women
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. Her company Viking Women focuses on all-female trips that combine wellness with Iceland’s otherworldly landscapes.
Viking Women Tours
5.00
Viking Women Tours
Viking Women Tours is an exclusive women’s travel group based in Iceland and operated by experienced local female adventurers. They are very passionate about the outdoors, traveling, and being able to introduce and explore their home to travelers worldwide. Their guides have traveled extensively through Iceland and are always honored to assist you in customizing the perfect experience in the land of fire and ice!

Accommodation

5.00 (4 reviews)
Cris & Janine (source: Guide's website)

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 (source: Guide's website)

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 (source: Guide's website)

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!

Mandy Martin

Incredible experience, incredible adventure. I recommend Viking Women to everyone traveling to Iceland!

Things to know

  • What you get on this adventure:

      • Experienced, local guides dedicated to creating a meaningful experience
      • Guided hikes that challenge and inspire
      • Accommodation that balances comfort with nature’s embrace (more info above)
      • All-women winter hiking tour, either a 7-day Christmas adventure in Iceland or 7-day New Year’s adventure in Iceland
      • 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

    What’s not included:

      • Transportation to Iceland
      • Accommodations prior to and after the tour
      • Some meals (detailed in the itinerary)
      • 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.

  • 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.

  • Group sizes and prices:

      • For these Iceland Northern Lights package holidays, the maximum group size is 16.
      • The cost does not decrease as the group grows.
      • Single supplement is available at an additional cost and may be added to your booking upon checkout.

    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!

  • Iceland, the “Land of Fire and Ice”, has forever lived with volcanic activity. Minor and major eruptions have occurred every few years since the island was formed. Some of Iceland’s appeal, aside from sheer natural beauty, surely stems from this very fact.

    However, every new eruption, such as the recent Reykjanes Peninsula fissure, will make some travelers, tourists, and adventurers uneasy, especially given the fact that sensationalist media is not immune to misinformation and speculation.

    Since we work with a number of expert local guides in Iceland, we thought we’d share their input and fill you in on what’s actually going on.

      • First of all, air traffic has not been affected. Flights to and from Keflavík International Airport and Reykjavík Domestic Airport are operating as they always do.
      • Second, the effects of volcanic activity have been localized, with some roads closed, and all services in Iceland are operating as usual. Reykjavik, the capital, is around 40 km (25 miles) away from the volcanic fissure, and life there is as normal as ever.
      • And third, trips offered by 57hours are taking place much further away, and are thereby even less likely to be affected by the volcanic activity, being perfectly safe for adventurers. Naturally, the authorities (and guides) are monitoring the situation and doing everything possible to keep both local residents and visitors safe and well informed.

    In case you have any additional questions or dilemmas, feel free to get in touch with either your guide or 57hours. For more information, please visit:
    https://safetravel.is/ and https://www.visiticeland.com/article/volcano-info

    Or watch the video with Dr. Matthew Roberts from the Icelandic Meteorological Office explaining the recent volcanic activities in Iceland:
    https://youtu.be/QA3-BXYuYrw?feature=shared

  • Deposits

    You can secure one of the 2024 dates with a 30% deposit upon booking. The remaining 70% of the trip price is to be paid 90 days prior to departure, at the latest.

    Cancellations

    Booking fees are non-refundable in all cases. During checkout, however, you can choose one of 57hours’ flexibility options:

    Basic

      • In case of cancellation within 48 hours after booking, the amount paid is fully refundable.
      • For cancellations 60 or more days before the trip, you are eligible for a 70% refund of the trip price.
      • For cancellations 0-59 days before the trip, there is no refund.

    Flexible

      • In case of cancellation within 48 hours after booking, the amount paid is fully refundable.
      • For cancellations 60 or more days before the trip, you are eligible for a full refund of the trip price.
      • For cancellations 30-59 days before the trip, you are eligible for a 50% refund of the trip price.
      • For cancellations 0-29 days before the trip, there is no refund.

    Super Flexible

      • In case of cancellation within 48 hours after booking, the amount paid is fully refundable.
      • For cancellations 30 or more days before the trip, you are eligible for a full refund of the trip price.
      • For cancellations 0-29 days before the trip, you are eligible for a 50% refund of the trip price.
  • 57hours partners with Redpoint Travel Protection, offering you a fully integrated program with a single point of contact for all your needs, from emergency services to travel assistance and protection claims. We highly recommend purchasing a comprehensive protection policy from Redpoint, which will protect you both before and during your travels. Before your departure, your investment is protected by the trip cancellation benefit. Once you depart, your policy provides coverage for trip interruption, medical assistance and rescue, baggage loss, trip delay, and more. Once you complete booking with 57hours, we'll create bespoke quote for you (and your group), making sure you're fully protected for the adventure ahead.
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