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Winter wonderland in Iceland, wellness retreat

All-Women Hiking in Iceland: A Festive Winter Retreat

7 days | Easy | 5.00
From $3,811 ()
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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 I will lead you through winter’s best-ofs and help you unleash your inner Valkyrie in the great outdoors! Let’s explore the country’s winter side: the Golden Circle’s waterfalls and geysers, an ice cave carved in black and blue, and a guided glacier hike on ancient ice, plus an afternoon on snowmobiles. Choose the Christmas departure or ring in the New Year with fireworks over Reykjavík. Either way, days outside are balanced with hot pools, good food, and a group of women who get why you’re here.

Saga
Saga

Adventure Highlights

  • Front-row seats for the northern lights: December and January's long, dark nights are prime aurora season, and much of this trip plays out on the South Coast, well away from Reykjavík's light pollution
  • Walk inside a glacier: A guided trip into the Katla ice cave puts you face-to-face with centuries-old blue and black ice, crampons and helmet included, no glacier experience required
  • Small-group holiday celebration: Whether you pick the Christmas or New Year's departure, you're spending the season with a small group of women who came here for the same reason you did
Duration
7 days
Season
December and January
Group size
Up to 16 people
Accommodation
Luxury: Stylish & comfortable hotels
Difficulty
Easy: Beginner-friendly, easy walks & glacier hike
What's included
Guide, hotel accommodation, entry to hot pools, transfers, city tour, snowmobile adventure, glacier walk, and more

The adventure, day by day

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
Reykjavik night view

We all meet at Hotel Óðinsvé in Reykjavík around 5:45 pm for introductions, followed by a welcome dinner at a nearby local restaurant to get acquainted with the rest of the group.

Accommodation: Hotel Óðinsvé, Reykjavík
Meals:
Dinner

Day 2: Christmas in Reykjavik
Reykjavik church during the holidays

We spend the day soaking up Reykjavík’s holiday atmosphere, wandering through local Christmas markets and festive streets. Our guide shares insights into Icelandic Christmas folklore, traditions, and seasonal foods along the way, making for a relaxed day of cultural discovery.

Accommodation: Hotel Óðinsvé, Reykjavík
Meals:
Breakfast

Day 3: Golden Circle & Greenhouse lunch
Geotermal eruption at Gullfoss Geysir

We follow the famous Golden Circle route, visiting Þingvellir National Park, the Geysir geothermal area, and Gullfoss waterfall. Lunch is at a geothermal greenhouse, where fresh produce grows year-round using natural heat, before we head back to Reykjavík.

Accommodation: Hotel Óðinsvé, Reykjavík
Meals:
Breakfast, lunch

Day 4: South Coast adventure and glacier hike
glacier hike women tour

We follow Iceland’s South Coast to take in its waterfalls and glaciers, capped off with a guided glacier walk that lets us step onto ancient ice and learn about the surrounding glacial environment. We check into Hotel Lóa before dinner.

Accommodation: Hotel Lóa
Meals:
Breakfast

Day 5: Katla ice cave and super jeep glacier adventure
katla ice cave women tour

We take a super jeep onto Mýrdalsjökull glacier for a 3-hour expedition to the Katla ice cave, geared up with crampons and helmets. Inside, black and blue ice walls—shaped by centuries of volcanic and glacial activity—make for a striking sight. The tour starts at 12:30 pm.

Accommodation: Hotel Lóa
Meals:
Breakfast

Day 6: Snowmobiling on Mýrdalsjökull and local pool
Snowmobile in Iceland

We swap crampons for snowmobiles, riding out across Mýrdalsjökull glacier, then unwind at a local geothermal pool. Back in Reykjavík, we close out the day with a festive farewell dinner.

Accommodation: Hotel Óðinsvé, Reykjavík
Meals:
Breakfast, dinner

Day 7: Spa relaxation & departure
spa iceland

We visit Sky Lagoon at 11 am for around two hours, working through the 7-step ritual and soaking in the infinity pool’s ocean views. Airport transfer to Keflavík follows, by 2 pm.

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 and welcome dinner
Reykjavik night view

We meet at Hotel Óðinsvé in Reykjavík at 5:45 pm, where our guide gives a short introduction before we head to a welcome dinner at a nearby local restaurant—an easy, relaxed way to get to know the rest of the group.

Accommodation: Hotel Óðinsvé, Reykjavík
Meals: Dinner

Day 2: Golden Circle highlights and snowmobiling
Snowmobile in Iceland

We explore Iceland’s Golden Circle, visiting Þingvellir National Park, the Geysir geothermal area, and Gullfoss waterfall. In the afternoon we take a snowmobile tour on Langjökull glacier, then unwind at Laugarás Lagoon geothermal spa before continuing on to Hvolsvöllur for the night.

Accommodation: Hotel Lóa
Meals: Breakfast

Day 3: Katla ice cave and super jeep adventure
katla ice cave women tour

We head onto Mýrdalsjökull glacier for a Katla ice cave tour, starting at 12:30 pm and running around 3 hours. Geared up with crampons and helmets, and with super jeep transportation and expert guidance, we explore the glacier’s striking natural ice formations.

Accommodation: Hotel Lóa
Meals: Breakfast

Day 4: South Coast adventure and glacier hike
glacier hike women tour

We visit Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss waterfalls, then take on a guided glacier hike on Sólheimajökull. The day winds down at Reynisfjara black sand beach before we return to Reykjavík.

Accommodation: Hotel Óðinsvé, Reykjavík
Meals: Breakfast

Day 5: Reykjavík city walk and New Year's Eve celebrations
NYE bonfire in Iceland

We join a walking tour of the capital with local guides, taking in the city’s landmarks and hidden corners. In the evening, we sit down for a festive three-course New Year’s Eve dinner at a local restaurant, then head out to watch Reykjavík’s midnight fireworks.

Accommodation: Hotel Óðinsvé, Reykjavík
Meals: Breakfast, dinner

Day 6: Lunch and local pool experience
womens lunch iceland

We share a lunch together, then visit a local geothermal swimming pool for a taste of authentic Icelandic daily life.

Accommodation: Hotel Óðinsvé, Reykjavík
Meals: Breakfast, lunch

Day 7: Spa relaxation & departure
spa iceland

We visit Sky Lagoon around 11 am for about two hours before an airport drop-off no later than 2 pm.

Meals: Breakfast

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Meet your guides

Seasoned pros, local legends, and passionate adventurers—your trip is in the best hands.
Saga
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.
Auður
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.
Snæsa
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.
Ingibjörg
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.
Sigrún
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.
Gunnur
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.
Rakel
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.
Lísa
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.
Dorcas
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)
C
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!!

M
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!

K
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!

5.00(3 reviews)
C
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!!

M
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!

K
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!

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
      • Accommodation for 6 nights at hotels (double occupancy)
      • Guided hikes that challenge and inspire, as in the itinerary
      • Entrances to hot pools
      • Thrilling snowmobile adventure
      • Guided glacier walk
      • City walking tour
      • Transportation for all activities
      • All breakfasts, 2 dinners, and one lunch, as in the itinerary
      • All scheduled activities and entrances

    Add-ons (pricing shown at checkout):

      • Single occupancy room

    Not included:

      • Flights to Iceland
      • Airport transfers
      • Accommodations prior to and after the tour
      • Most lunches and dinners
      • Anything not mentioned in the “Included” section above
      • Insurance — recommended, available to add at checkout
      • 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, 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 14:1.
      • It takes a minimum of 6 people for this tour to operate. The maximum group size is set at 14 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.
  • The price for these Northern Lights package tours is based on twin-share rooms, but a single occupancy room can be arranged at an additional fee. You can add it to your booking at checkout.

    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.

  • 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 insurance. To make your booking and traveling experience as carefree as possible, you’ll be offered to simply insure your trip with Redpoint at checkout.

    Redpoint—the official 57hours insurance partner—tailors protection 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.

  • 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.

    • 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.
    • Booking fees are non-refundable after a 48 hours grace period.
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