Guðmundur Jónasson Travel - Summer 2016 by GJ Travel

2016

SUMMER

AN INTRODUCTION TO GUÐMUNDUR JÓNASSON TRAVEL

ÍSAFJÖRÐUR HÚSAVÍK

For more than 80 years, our company has hosted travellers from all corners of the world. Through Guðmundur Jónasson Travel, many have returned time and time again together with their families and friends, to experience Iceland’s unique, beautiful nature and historical traditions. Our dedicated team never lose sight of the ‘personal touch’, and work hard to ensure that the varied and interesting itineraries offered by Guðmundur Jónasson Travel provide fully for the needs of today’s travellers. Our company was formed in 1929, when our founder Guðmundur Jónasson obtained his first driving licence. Fascinated by the seldom explored interior, he ventured out to the highlands and even onto the glaciers, opening up a whole new world to the 20th century traveller. Since he passed away in 1985, his family has continued to share his love and enthusiasm for Iceland, and is committed to introducing fascinating tours and adventures for everyone to enjoy. GUÐMUNDUR JÓNASSON A PERSONAL REFLECTION 1909 – 1985 Guðmundur, the founder of Guðmundur Jónasson Travel, was not content with Iceland’s limited number of roads in the 1930´s, so he pioneered his own. His travels in the highlands and on Iceland’s glaciers are legendary and today’s travellers benefit from his explorations. When NASA chose Iceland as their training ground for the first moon landing because of the lunar style landscape, they chose Guðmundur to show the way. He teamed up with Sir Edmund Hillary, guiding him when he visited Iceland after his ascent of Mt. Everest. Those who travel with us today travel in his footsteps and we hope they share his love for this Land of Ice and Fire called Iceland.

COVER PHOTO: Landmannalaugar by Dieter Schweizer

Iceland welcomes you!

RENATO GRÜNENFELDER, GENERAL MANAGER

DETTIFOSS GLAUMBÆR

AKUREYRI

MÝVATN EGILSSTAÐIR

STYKKISHÓLMUR REYKHOLT GULLFOSS & GEYSIR

REYKJAVÍK KEFLAVÍK

BLUE LAGOON

VATNAJÖKULL

LANDMANNASELFOSS LAUGAR SKAFTAFELL

HÖFN JÖKULSÁRLÓN

VÍK

Iceland - A land for all seasons The Country: Iceland is an island of 103.000 km2 (39,756 sq.miles), about the size of Portugal, Cuba or Ohio. Its highest peak, Hvannadalshnjúkur, rises to 2.110 m and over 11 per cent of the country is covered by glaciers, including Vatnajökull, the largest in Europe. Energy: Situated on the Mid-Atlantic Ridge, Iceland is a hot spot of volcanic and geothermal activity: 30 post-glacial volcanoes have erupted in the past two centuries, and natural hot water supplies much of the population with inexpensive, pollution-free heating. Rivers are harnessed to provide affordable hydroelectric power. People: Out of a population numbering around 320.000, half live in the capital Reykjavík and its neighbouring towns in the southwest. Keflavík International Airport is located about 50 km (30 miles) from the capital. The interior highland is uninhabited (and uninhabitable), and most centers of population are situated on the coast. Language: Iceland was settled by Nordic people in the 9th century - history tells that the first permanent settler was Ingólfur Arnarson, a Norwegian Viking who made his home where Reykjavík now stands. The Icelanders still speak the language of the Vikings, although modern Icelandic has undergone changes in pronunciation and in vocabulary! Iceland is alone in upholding another Norse tradition, i.e. the custom of using patronymics rather than surnames. An Icelander’s Christian name is followed by his or her father’s name and the suffix -son or -dóttir, e.g. Guðrún Pétursdóttir (Guðrún, daughter of Pétur). Members of a family can therefore have many different "surnames", which sometimes causes confusion to foreigners! Route 1 or the “Ring Road”: It is the main road in Iceland which goes around the island, mostly along the coast, connecting many villages and towns. The total length of Route 1 is 1,360 kilometers (843 miles). In general, driving tours around Iceland with the most popular side trips are about 2000 km (1.240 miles). If you add the Westfjords, calculate about 3000 km (1.860 miles) of driving. Best time to travel: Iceland is a country that inspires visitors year round. Spring offers brightening days and emerging flora and fauna, summer has nearly round-the-clock sunlight and balmy weather, autumn brings a wonderful change in colours while winter features dark mysterious days, softly glowing Northern Lights and even occasionally snow. The hardest part is choosing when to visit. This brochure includes spring, summer and autumn tours, while the winter and northern light tours are featured in a separate brochure. The climate in Iceland: Thanks to the Gulf Stream, Iceland enjoys a moderate maritime climate: cool in summer and fairly mild in winter. Normal summer day temperatures range between 5-8 °C (41 – 47 F) for lows and 12 -18 °C (54 – 64 °F) for highs. When it comes to Iceland’s weather — the one thing you can count on is unpredictability. The best plan is to be prepared for anything and everything AND always to dress in layers. The Icelanders have a saying: "there's no such thing as bad weather, just bad clothing." Travel time to Iceland: From Oslo 2 hours / From London 2,5 hours / From Frankfurt 3 hours / From Seattle 7 hours / From Boston 5 hours

Guðmundur Jónasson Travel

Currency: Icelandic Krona

ICELAND

Mt. Hengill mountain biking

South Iceland glacier hike

Seljalandsfoss waterfall, South Iceland

River rafting on Hvítá River

HIKING

LIKE A VIKING

BIKING LIKE A VIKING

HIKING & BIKING IN THE SOUTH

WALKING & HIKING ADVENTURE

THE VIKING CHALLENGE ACTIVE

This challenging small group program is ideal for experienced hikers, featuring four full days of touring, exploring and hiking in the mountains of South Iceland. Discover in “Viking style” green valleys, moon landscapes, lava fields, hot springs and glaciers. Hike to a natural geothermal river for a soak, conquer the top of a volcanic mountain and walk on warm lava near the infamous Eyjafjallajökull volcano. With 3 nights in South Iceland you feel like a real explorer as you discover off-thebeaten-path secrets of ancient mountains and valleys. For experienced hikers, with daily hikes from 7-16 km (4.5-10 miles). The maximum group size is 14 persons.

This is Iceland’s must-do program for adventurous or serious mountain bikers. With four days of wilderness biking in the mountains and valleys of South Iceland, Þingvellir National Park and on the volcanic Westman Islands, it’s the real deal. Experience fun and challenging bike paths with lava under your wheels, splash through clear mountain rivers and discover steaming hot springs in the midst of untouched nature. One of the most demanding bike tours in Iceland with daily distances of 20-50 km (13-31 miles) but one of the most fun! This tour is only recommended for experienced mountain bikers. The maximum group size is 10 persons.

This activity tour offers a week long stay in Reykjavík with daily guided hiking and biking tours in Southwest Iceland. Included is a bike tour of Reykjavík, a “splash mountain bike tour” through clear rivers and green valleys, a walk in the mountains and the nature reserve close to Reykjavík, a mountain bike tour along the sea shores, a glacier walk and ice climbing near to the famous Eyjafjallajökull volcano. We also visit the famous Blue Lagoon to relax. Daily departures from the beginning of June to end of August and a wide choice of accommodation are available.

The world at your feet with an average of 3-4 hours hiking and walking a day in some of the most stunning nature in South Iceland. You visit the Golden Circle sites, explore the interior landscapes at Lakagígar, Landmannalaugar and Þórsmörk and the glacial wonders of Vatnajökull National Park. Your Icelandic adventure includes daily hiking, bathing in geothermal lagoons and rivers, climbing volcano craters, walking on glaciers and zodiac cruising between floating icebergs. With a maximum group size of 20 persons, this guided hiking tour takes you into a wonderland of geological extremes where you explore Icelandic highlights and secrets.

This vibrant multi-activity program is for those of 14 and older and is based in Reykjavík. This week-long adventure takes you right into the heart of Iceland’s nature, with challenging activity tours and fun ways to experience Iceland’s unique natural world. Activities and excursions include: Golden Circle Tour white river rafting, glacial hike & ice climbing in South Iceland, ATV ride in a moon-like landscape, horseback riding through lava fields, whale watching in the bay of Reykjavík and also a visit to the famous Blue Lagoon. While staying 7 nights in Iceland‘s capital, you benefit from a wide selection of hotels, guesthouses and restaurants.

DURATION: 4 days / 3 nights

DURATION: 8 days / 7 nights

DEPARTURES Daily, June - August LANGUAGES English TOUR CODE GJ 63

DEPARTURES Daily, June – August LANGUAGES English TOUR CODE GJ 64

DEPARTURES See page 12 LANGUAGES English or German TOUR CODE GJ 56

DEPARTURES Daily, June – August LANGUAGES English TOUR CODE GJ 61

Hike in Hveradalur, South Iceland

DURATION: 8 days / 7 nights DEPARTURES Daily, June – August LANGUAGES English TOUR CODE GJ 62

VISIT US AT www.gjtravel.is

2016 DEPARTURES Every Friday all year round LANGUAGES English ACCOMMODATION Superior tourist-class hotels - in rooms with shower/wc It is possible to book the tour without accommodation. MEALS Daily breakfast included, except tour is booked without accommodation ALSO INCLUDED • Arrival & departure airport transfer by FLYBUS • Fully escorted 6-day bus tour with an English speaking guide • Visit to natural history & seal museum in Hvammstangi • Visit to Viðimýri turf church • Entrance with towel at Mývatn Nature Baths • Admission to Petra’s Stone and Mineral Collection in the East Fjords • Multimedia presentation at Eyjafjallajökull Volcano Information Center • Visit to Icelandic horse stables & geothermal greenhouse • Use of snow & ice gripper spikes and a flash light for winter departures GROUP SIZE Maximum 40 persons TOUR CODE GJ 92

Day 1, FRI: WELCOME to ICELAND FLYBUS shuttle on arrival to Reykjavík. Day 2, SAT: VOLCANO CRATER, SEALS, FJORDS & MOUNTAINS Meet the tour guide and travel west, passing the town of Borgarnes and climb the Grábrók volcano crater. In the afternoon visit a natural history & seal museum in a small fishing village in Northwest Iceland and stroll around the local harbour. Stop at the turf church of Víðimýri and continue along scenic fjord landscape and over several mountain passes. Overnight in Akureyri, the capital of North Iceland.

Day 3, SUN: AKUREYRI, LAKE MÝVATN & GEOTHERMAL BATHS In the morning explore Akureyri, a charming town of 17000 inhabitants, visit the botanical garden and enjoy the panoramic view over Eyjafjörður fjord. In the afternoon travel to an important spot in Iceland's history, Goðafoss, the waterfalls of the Gods. Continue to Lake Mývatn which is known for its geological wonders and active bird life during summer. Stop at bizarre lava formations, walk around pseudo craters and soak at Mývatn Nature Baths that contains a unique blend of minerals, silicates and geothermal micro-organisms. Overnight at Lake Mývatn.

Day 4, MON: LAVA LABYRINTH, HOT SPRINGS & TRAVEL EAST Today hike in a lava labyrinth at Dimmuborgir "the dark castles" and visit the hot spring area of Námaskarð with bubbling mud pools and steaming solfataras. Head through the uninhabited highlands and moonlike surroundings to East Iceland. Overnight in Egilsstaðir.

Day 5, TUE: FJORDS, GLACIER AND ICE It's a day to admire the dramatic

fjord landscape and its tiny fishing villages at the end of twisty roads in the East Fjords and on route we visit an interesting stone and mineral collection. In the afternoon we see Vatnajökull – Europe's biggest glacier that is visible all over Southeast Iceland. We stop at Jökulsárlón, a glacial lagoon filled with floating icebergs, and we walk on the black sandy beach where large icebergs get stranded. We spend time at Europe's largest national park, which has Iceland's highest mountains, an alpine environment, and Europe's largest glacier. Overnight in Kirkjubæjarklaustur.

New tour

Day 6, WED: SOUTH COAST A beautiful drive with many natural wonders

Eldhraun lava field, South Iceland (photo courtesy of a client)

awaits us today as we head across the Eldhraun lava field, cross the sandy desert of the south coast, overlooked by mountainous cliffs, glaciers and waterfalls. We stroll along the black lava beach of Reynisfjara near Vík. Skógafoss waterfall is 60 meters high and one of the most impressive waterfalls in the country. At the Eyjafjallajökull Information Center learn about living next to a glacier and an active volcano. We continue to the high but narrow Seljalandsfoss waterfall which plunges over the mountain. Overnight location is Flúðir in South Iceland.

GUIDED ICELAND CIRCLE

TRAVEL ON ICELAND’S RING ROAD We offer weekly escorted tours around Iceland all year round. Travel on Iceland's ring road and discover stunning scenery and dramatic landscapes. A local expert guide helps you explore the unspoiled Icelandic countryside with volcanoes, lava fields, hot springs, mountains, fjords, glaciers and waterfalls. This escorted tour takes you both to classic nature hotspots and lesser-known sights, and includes several soft adventures and cultural visits. Some outdoor activities might differ between seasons. Exclusively, this tour is available with pre-booked comfort hotels during the whole trip while the more independent traveler can take care of the own overnight arrangements, even camping. Escorted coach tour around Iceland's ring road Bookable with or without accommodation Bookable with or without dinner Visit two national parks Included are visits to small local museums, cultural experiences and soft adventures Weekly departures all year round

HÚSAVÍK

Day 8, FRI: DEPARTURE HOME Individual transfer by FLYBUS airport

MÝVATN EGILSSTAÐIR

VATNAJÖKULL

REYKJAVÍK

GULLFOSS & GEYSIR SKAFTAFELL

Day 7, THU: ICELANDIC HORSES & GOLDEN CIRCLE We explore classics today as we travel the route of the Golden Circle sights. We start the day at Friðheimar, where you learn about the Icelandic horse, its special qualities and history and visit a geothermal greenhouse. Explore Geysir geothermal fields with a variety of hot springs and bubbling pools. We continue to Gullfoss, "the golden falls", which is a double waterfall that tumbles 34 meters into the Hvítá river and attracts travellers in summer and winter. We travel inland to Þingvellir National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site. As we return to Reykjavík, we take you for a short city tour to show highlights of the world's northern-most capital. Overnight in Reykjavík.

AKUREYRI

HIGHLIGHTS and EXPERIENCES: • • • • • •

ICELAND

ITINERARY

DURATION: 8 days / 7 nights

VÍK

shuttle to Keflavík Airport.

VISIT US AT www.gjtravel.is

2016 DEPARTURES English guided tours: 99/D Wednesday 01 June - 11 June 99/F Wednesday 15 June - 25 June 99/H Wednesday 29 June - 09 July 99/J Wednesday 13 July - 23 July 99/L Wednesday 27 July - 06 August 99/N Wednesday 10 August - 20 August 99/P Wednesday 24 August - 03 September LANGUAGES English ACCOMMODATION Country hotels, guesthouses and farms – in rooms with shower/wc MEALS 10x breakfast and 8x dinner ALSO INCLUDED • Arrival & departure airport transfer by FLYBUS • Fully escorted 9-day bus tour with an English speaking guide • Visit to three national parks • Admission to settlement center in West Iceland • Entrance and visit to lava cave • Ferry trip to the West Fjords • Admission to folk and transport museum at Hnjótur • Visit to Erik the Red homestead •Horse show in Northwest Iceland • Entrance with towel to the Nature Baths at Lake Mývatn • Visit to stone collection in the East Fjords • Boat trip on glacial lagoon • Visit to multimedia presentation at Eyjafjallajökull Volcano Information Center • Average of 1-2 hours easy walking per day GROUP SIZE Maximum 20 persons TOUR CODE GJ 99

ICELAND

ITINERARY

DURATION: 11 days / 10 nights

Day 1, WED: WELCOME TO ICELAND FLYBUS shuttle to Reykjavík. Day 2, THU: GOLDEN CIRCLE We start the Grand Tour of Iceland with

classic highlights: Gullfoss waterfall, the active geothermal area of Geysir and the UNESCO world heritage site of Þingvellir National Park. Overnight in West Iceland.

Day 3, FRI: SNÆFELLSNES PENINSULA AND LAVA CAVE Today we are introduced to the Icelandic sagas and we travel around the Snæfellsnes Peninsula. We visit the most popular sites at the national park where volcanic craters, lava flows, an ice cap, mountains, fjords, sandy beaches, and high cliffs shape its landscapes. We follow the adventure of Jules Verne's classic science fiction novel about the journey to the center of the Earth: a lava cave tour takes us 35 meters underground and about 200 meters into a lava tube. Overnight in the region.

Day 4: SAT: ICELAND’S WESTERNMOST POINT We catch the ferry to the West Fjords over a wide bay with countless islands. We follow the coastline and stop at a charming folk and transport museum. We continue through a very remote and sparsely populated region to the bird cliffs of Látrabjarg, the westernmost point of Iceland (and Europe). Day 5, SUN: BEAUTIFUL WEST FJORDS We travel the shore of many scenic fjords, beautiful beaches, and over mountains until we reach the unique waterfall Dynjandi, declared the country’s most beautiful waterfall by the people of Iceland. We continue along the southern shores of the West Fjords. This is a route less travelled and is characterized by sheer cliffs, deep cut bays and narrow stretches of coastal lowland. Overnight at a remote and peaceful location in West Iceland.

Day 6, MON: HEADING NORTH At Haukadalur, there is an authentic replica of the homestead of Erik the Red, the famous explorer who founded the Icelandic colony in Greenland. His son Leif-the-Lucky was the first European to set foot in North America. We head north and stop at a local farm for a horse show. Overnight at the charming town of Akureyri.

Puffin in the West Fjords

Day 7, TUE: GEOLOGICAL WONDERS AND NATURE BATHS We

GRAND TOUR OF ICELAND

explore Goðafoss waterfall and continue to Lake Mývatn, known for its rich bird life and extraordinary volcanic lava landscapes. We visit pseudo craters, walk in the lava field Dimmuborgir, climb up to the rim of an ash crater, see hot springs and bubbling mud pools, travel to a crater lake and soak at the Mývatn Nature Baths. Overnight in the area.

AROUND ICELAND, SNÆFELLSNES & WEST FJORDS

Day 8, WED: THE SECRET OF THE EAST Dettifoss is Europe’s most

powerful waterfall in the northern part of Vatnajökull National Park. From there we head through the uninhabited highlands to the isolated village Bakkagerði in East Iceland. Only 120 inhabitants live in this charming fjord village, built snugly next to colorful and impressive mountains, and known for its extensive population of elves.

Iceland is a country like no other, almost an own little planet with exceptional landscapes: some of the world’s finest waterfalls, erupting geysers, stunning fjords, magical lagoons, active volcanoes, majestic glaciers, powerful lava flows as well as tranquil lakes with rare-breeding bird life. The Grand Tour of Iceland takes you on an unforgettable journey around Iceland including the Snæfellsnes Peninsula and the magical West Fjords. Experience not only the splendor of the untamed Icelandic nature but dive as well into the unique Icelandic culture and history. Discover many well-known highlights but also most remote parts of the country to enjoy a breathtaking scenery. HIGHLIGHTS and EXPERIENCES: Iceland Circle Tour including the Snæfellsnes Peninsula and the West Fjords Visit 3 national parks Ferry trip to the West Fjords, visit a lava cave and boat trip between floating icebergs Small local museums, cultural experiences and a horse show Multimedia presentation at Eyjafjallajökull Volcano Information Center Farewell dinner at a Reykjavík gourmet restaurant Small groups, maximum 20 persons

Day 9, THU: FJORDS, GLACIERS AND ICE It’s a day to admire the dramatic fjord landscape and its tiny fishing villages in the East Fjords were we visit an interesting stone and mineral collection. Vatnajökull is Europe’s biggest glacier and we stop for a boat ride amongst the floating icebergs on the Jökulsárlón glacial lagoon. Overnight in the region.

HÚSAVÍK

Day 10, FRI: VATNAJÖKULL NATIONAL PARK AND THE SOUTH We

AKUREYRI MÝVATN EGILSSTAÐIR

VATNAJÖKULL

REYKJAVÍK

GULLFOSS & GEYSIR

SKAFTAFELL VÍK

visit Skaftafell at the Vatnajökull National Park, covered by ice and nestled below Iceland’s highest mountains. We drive along the south coast, always between the sea, black lava beaches and mountainous cliffs, glaciers and waterfalls. At the Eyjafjallajökull Information Center we learn how it is to live next to a glacier and an active volcano. Farewell dinner and overnight in Reykjavík.

Day 11, SAT: DEPARTURE HOME The FLYBUS shuttle takes you to Keflavik airport.

VISIT US AT www.gjtravel.is

2016 DEPARTURES 90/D Saturday 04 June - 12 June 90/F Saturday 18 June - 26 June 90/H Saturday 02 July - 10 July 90/J Saturday 16 July - 24 July 90/L Saturday 30 July - 07 August 90/N Saturday 13 August - 21 August 90/P Saturday 27 August - 04 September 90/R Saturday 10 September - 18 September 90/T Saturday 24 September - 02 October LANGUAGES English ACCOMMODATION Country Hotels – in rooms with shower/wc. 4 star hotel in Reykjavík MEALS 8x breakfast and 6x dinner ALSO INCLUDED Arrival & departure airport transfer by FLYBUS • Fully escorted 7-day bus tour with an English speaking guide • Visit to two national parks • Whale watching tour (weather permitting) • Boat trip on glacial lagoon • Introduction to Icelandic horse • Entrance fee to the Nature Baths at Lake Mývatn • Icelandic settlement center and Skógar folk museum • Average of 1-2 hours walking per day. GROUP SIZE Maximum 28 persons TOUR CODE GJ 90

Day 1, SAT: WELCOME TO ICELAND FLYBUS shuttle on arrival to Reykjavík. Day 2, SUN: LAND OF SAGAS After a Reykjavík city tour head north from Iceland's capital to West Iceland where we are introduced to the Icelandic sagas in the settlement center in Borgarnes. The afternoon is filled with impressive natural spots: Deildartunguhver, one of the most voluminous hot springs in Europe and Hraunfossar, the unique waterfall that drains from under vast lava fields into the river Hvítá. End the day with Icelandic history at the cultural site at Reykholt. Overnight is in West Iceland.

Day 3, MON: FROM WEST TO NORTH The day starts with climbing a

volcano crater in an old lava field in West Iceland. Afterwards we travel through the fertile farmlands and fjord landscapes of Northwest Iceland, and visit the beautiful town of Akureyri, Iceland’s second largest city. We stop at Goðafoss, “the waterfall of the Gods,” before reaching our accommodation in Northeast Iceland where we stay for the next two nights.

Day 4, TUE: WHALE WATCHING, GEOLOGICAL WONDERS AND NATURE BATHS The day begins with a 3 hour whale watching cruise from

Húsavík (weather permitting). We tour the Lake Mývatn area, considered as one of the most fertile areas in the world so close to the Arctic Circle. The lake’s unique features are shaped by nature – strange lava formations, pseudo craters and attractive bays filled with thousands of birds. We stroll through the lava field of Dimmuborgir and soak at the Mývatn Nature Baths.

Day 5, WED: FROM NORTH TO EAST We start today by exploring the geothermal area of Námaskarð and seeing the impacts of volcanic activity at Krafla. Then we travel to Dettifoss, Europe’s most powerful waterfall in the northern part of Vatnajökull National Park. From there we head through the uninhabited highlands to East Iceland, where we spend the night.

Day 6, THU: FJORDS, GLACIER AND ICE It’s a day to admire the dramatic fjord landscape and its tiny fishing villages at the end of twisty roads in the East Fjords. Soon we see Vatnajökull - Europe’s biggest glacier that is visible all over Southeast Iceland. Past the town of Höfn, we stop for a boat ride amongst the floating icebergs on the glacial lagoon at Jökulsárlón. The night is spent near Skaftafell on the southern part of Vatnajökull National Park.

Whale watching in Húsavík

COUNTRY LIFE

Day 7, FRI: VATNAJÖKULL NATIONAL PARK AND THE SOUTH Visit Skaftafell at Vatnajökull National Park, nestled below the glacier and Iceland’s highest mountain, the 2110 meter high Hvannadalshnjúkur. Cross the sandy desert of the south coast, and travel along mountainous cliffs, glaciers and waterfalls. We stroll along the black lava beach and bird cliffs near the village of Vík. Iceland’s past comes alive at the Skógar folk museum with its turf houses. Overnight in South Iceland.

ICELAND CIRCLE TOUR WITH WHALE WATCHING This round-the-island tour shows you the ever-changing scenery of the Icelandic countryside: mountains and valleys, volcanoes, glaciers, rivers, hot springs and waterfalls. This is an ideal tour for those who want to experience the whole variety of Icelandic landscape, culture and history in one week. You visit two of Iceland’s three national parks and there are opportunities to walk in the beautiful countryside most days during the tour. Accommodations are in simple and clean country hotels, and all rooms are with private facilities.

Day 8, SAT: RING THE GOLDEN CIRCLE TO REYKJAVIK We see

classics today. Start with a horse show that introduces the unique qualities of Iceland’s special breed. Golden Circle sights follow: Gullfoss the beautiful double “Golden Falls”; the active geothermal area of Geysir, where we can see Strokkur “the churn” spout up to 25 meters (70 feet) every five to seven minutes. A visit to the ancient Viking Parliament area of Þingvellir National Park tops it off before returning to Reykjavík.

HÚSAVÍK

HIGHLIGHTS and EXPERIENCES: Whale watching, weather permitting Boat trip on glacial lagoon among floating icebergs Introduction to the Icelandic horse One to two hours of walking on average a day Visit two national parks Soak in the Nature Baths at Lake Mývatn Visit to Skógar folk museum with turf houses Learn about Icelandic sagas in the settlement center 6

ICELAND

ITINERARY

DURATION: 9 days / 8 nights

Day 9, SUN: DEPARTURE HOME The FLYBUS shuttle takes you to Keflavik

AKUREYRI

airport.

MÝVATN EGILSSTAÐIR

VATNAJÖKULL

REYKJAVÍK

GULLFOSS & GEYSIR

SKAFTAFELL VÍK

Note: This tour has an average of 1-2 hours of walking each day - it is an easy tour in which nearly everyone can take part.

VISIT US AT www.gjtravel.is

2016 DEPARTURES All tours depart Reykjavík at 09:00 30/E Sunday 13 June - 24 June 30/G Sunday 27 June - 08 July 30/I Sunday 11 July - 22 July 30/K Sunday 25 July - 05 August 30/M Sunday 08 August - 19 August LANGUAGES English and German ACCOMMODATION 4 choices: Budget-class hotel with shared facilities, standard-class hotel with private facilities and superior-class hotel. Locations are Akureyri in North Iceland and Hella in South Iceland. It is possible to book the tour without accommodation. MEALS Daily breakfast included, except tour is booked without accommodation. ALSO INCLUDED Bus and guide for 12 days, ferry to/from Westman Islands and entrance to Glaumbær folk museum. Please note, that the afternoon program on day 2 and the full day program on day 4 and 10 are optional and not included in the tour price. GROUP SIZE Maximum 35 persons OPTIONAL TOURS Can be bought in advance or during the tour with our tour guide TOUR CODE GJ 30

Day 1, MON: WEST ICELAND AND OVER THE MOUNTAINS TO THE NORTH After leaving Reykjavík, we explore Hraunfossar waterfalls, Europe's

most powerful hot spring and climb the Grábrók volcano crater in West Iceland. We get an insight to Iceland’s past at Glaumbær turf farm & folk museum. We continue along fjords and over mountains to Akureyri - the capital of North Iceland, our base for the next five nights.

Day 2, TUE: AKUREYRI AND OPTIONAL TOUR TO HRÍSEY ISLAND In the morning, you have a guided walk through Akureyri, which has a charming city center and a fine botanical garden. The afternoon is free to either explore on your own, or to join an optional excursion by bus and ferry to Hrísey Island.

Day 3, WED: GEOLOGICAL WONDERS OF LAKE MÝVATN Full day excursion to Goðafoss waterfall and Lake Mývatn with its rich bird life and extraordinary volcanic landscapes.

Day 5, FRI: WHALES, WATERFALLS AND EUROPE’S LARGEST NATIONAL PARK Húsavík is a picturesque small fishing town only an hour from Akureyri, where you can join an optional whale watching cruise or visit museums. We continue to the northern part of Vatnajökull National Park, stop at bird cliffs where puffins may be seen, and visit the huge canyon of Ásbyrgi and Dettifoss, Europe's most powerful waterfall.

Day 6, SAT: KJÖLUR HIGHLAND ROAD We go through the heart of Iceland today – travelling on the Kjölur trail, between the glaciers Langjökull and Hofsjökull. We stop at the hot springs of Hveravellir, where you can soak in a natural hot pool. The small village of Hella in South Iceland is our base for the next six nights. The participants of Best of North Iceland return to Reykjavík. Day 7, SUN: ÞJÓRSÁRDALUR The participants of Best of South Iceland join

Þingvellir National Park

the Best of Iceland group for the rest of the tour. We travel alongside the Hekla volcano and visit the Hjálparfoss waterfall. Nearby we explore the Viking farm ruins at Stöng and enjoy a leisurely hike to Gjáin, a green oasis in an otherwise rocky, barren moonlike landscape.

THE BEST OF ICELAND

THE BEST OF THE NORTH AND SOUTH IN TWO EASY STAGES

Day 8, MON: SOUTH SHORE We visit the glaciers, waterfalls, bird cliffs and lava beaches of South Iceland. There is an optional glacier walk or a visit to Skógar village together with our guide.

Best of Iceland is a series of day tours from two bases, Akureyri in the north and Hella, a small village in the south. We see high mountains, deep fjords and volcanic landscapes in North Iceland, and we travel through the interior highland desert to reach the south where we see glittering glaciers, impressive waterfalls and black lava beaches. This 12-day program offers you choices in accommodation, room categories and restaurants. In addition to the included touring, there are choices in optional day excursions and activities. Shape this tour, so you have a perfect stay in Iceland. Using only two hotels means a lot less packing and more free time. Best of Iceland offers an excellent touring experience combined with exceptional value for money.

Day 9, TUE: WESTMAN ISLANDS Ahoy! We take a short ferry ride to the

Westman Islands. There is a bus and walking tour through the town of Heimaey. You have the afternoon free to explore the island, with its birds and signs of recent volcanic eruptions.

Day 10, WED: LEISURE DAY OR OPTIONAL DAY TOUR TO VATNAJÖKULL NATIONAL PARK Today is a free day. You can join an optional day

tour to the southern part of Vatnajökull National Park, home of Europe’s largest glacier and Jökulsárlón, a glacier lagoon with floating icebergs.

HÚSAVÍK

Day 11, THU: GOLDEN CIRCLE A day to visit three of Iceland’s most imAKUREYRI

HIGHLIGHTS and EXPERIENCES: We stay only in two different hotels, which means less packing Free time, optional excursions and activities to tailor your own Best of Iceland Three hotel choices and it is possible to book the tour without accommodation Easy tour and suitable for nearly everybody You can book just the North Iceland or South Iceland portion

ICELAND

ITINERARY

DURATION: 12 days / 11 nights

portant spots: Gullfoss waterfall, Geyser hot springs and Þingvellir National Park.

MÝVATN EGILSSTAÐIR

Day 12, FRI: REYKJANES PENINSULA, BLUE LAGOON AND REYKJAVÍK Hot springs, lava fields, amazing bird cliffs and moonlike landscapes are on today’s itinerary. The tour ends with a Reykjavík city tour after an optional visit to the famous Blue Lagoon.

VATNAJÖKULL

REYKJAVÍK

GULLFOSS & GEYSIR

SKAFTAFELL VÍK

Note: This tour has an average of 1-2 hours of walking each day - it is an easy tour in which nearly everyone can take part.

VISIT US AT www.gjtravel.is

2016 DEPARTURES All tours depart Reykjavík at 09:00 31/E Monday 13 June - 18 June 31/G Monday 27 June - 02 July 31/I Monday 11 July - 16 July 31/K Monday 25 July – 30 July 31/M Monday 08 August - 13 August LANGUAGES English and German ACCOMMODATION 4 choices: Budget-class hotel with shared facilities, standard-class hotel with private facilities and superior-class hotel. Location is Akureyri in North Iceland. It is possible to book the tour without accommodation. MEALS Daily breakfast included, except tour is booked without accommodation. ALSO INCLUDED Bus and guide for 6 days and entrance to Glaumbær folk museum. Please note, that the afternoon program on day 2 and the full day program on day 4 are optional and not included in the tour price. GROUP SIZE Maximum 35 persons OPTIONAL TOURS Can be bought in advance or during the tour with our tour guide TOUR CODE GJ 31

Day 1, MON: WEST ICELAND AND OVER THE MOUNTAINS TO THE NORTH After leaving Reykjavík, we explore Hraunfossar, a series of waterfalls pouring from beneath a long row of lava fields into Hvítá River. Barnafoss “the Children’s fall” is nearby and has its own tragic tale. Then we visit Europe's most powerful hot spring and climb the Grábrók volcano crater in West Iceland. We get an insight to Iceland’s past at Glaumbær turf farm & folk museum. We continue along fjords and over mountains to Akureyri - the capital of North Iceland, our base for the next five nights.

Day 3, WED: GEOLOGICAL WONDERS OF LAKE MÝVATN We explore Goðafoss, the waterfall of the Gods, and continue to Lake Mývatn, known for its rich bird life and extraordinary volcanic lava landscapes. Visit pseudo craters, walk in the lava field Dimmuborgir, climb up to the rim of the ash crater Hverfjall, see the hot springs and bubbling mud pools of Námaskarð, and travel to the Víti crater lake in the Krafla geothermal fields.

Day 4, THU: LEISURE DAY OR OPTIONAL DAY TOUR TO SIGLUFJÖRDUR Explore Akureyri on your own or join our optional excursion to see spectacular fjord landscapes while travelling to Siglufjörður, Iceland’s northern-most town and known as the herring capital of the North Atlantic. Siglufjörður is located on the mountainous Tröllaskagi Peninsula. On the way we pass small fishing villages and stop at a deserted valley that even most Icelanders have not seen. Near to Siglufjörður is Hofsós, a small and friendly village on the eastern shores of the Skagafjörður bay. Its natural harbour makes it one of the oldest trading ports in Iceland dating back to the 16th century. The Icelandic Emigration Centre focuses on the mass emigration from Iceland to North America in the late 19th century and is interesting to locals and visitors alike.

Hverir at Námaskarð, Lake Mývatn

Day 5, FRI: WHALES, WATERFALLS AND EUROPE’S LARGEST NATIONAL PARK Húsavík is a picturesque small fishing town only an hour

THE BEST OF NORTH ICELAND

from Akureyri, where you can join an optional whale watching cruise or visit museums. We continue to the northern part of the Vatnajökull National Park, stop at bird cliffs where puffins may be seen, and visit the huge canyon of Ásbyrgi and Dettifoss, Europe's most powerful waterfall.

MOUNTAINS, FJORDS, VOLCANOES & DESERT LANDSCAPE

Day 6, SAT: KJÖLUR HIGHLAND ROAD AND RETURN TO REYKJAVÍK We go through the heart of Iceland today – travelling on the Kjölur

This six-day tour focuses on guided excursions from Akureyri in North Iceland where you stay five nights. Staying in only one hotel means packing less and having more free time for you to enjoy. With about 17.000 inhabitants, Akureyri is pleasant and Iceland’s largest town outside of the Reykjavík area. Its beautiful location near the head of the fjord and its small city center make it popular with the visitors. This is a unique tour - with a choice of accommodation from budget-class to superior-class hotels, and a choice of day tours and activities, you can shape the perfect stay in North Iceland. This tour is an ideal short break to explore North Iceland and the interior highlands. It is part of the 12-day Best of Iceland program and offers exceptional value for money.

trail, between the glaciers Langjökull and Hofsjökull. We stop at the hot springs of Hveravellir, where you can soak in a natural hot pool. This region is shrouded in mystery, with folktales of ghosts, giants and outlaws. You experience one of Europe's last wildernesses! The Best of North Iceland ends today, as travellers return to Reykjavík in the evening. HÚSAVÍK

AKUREYRI

HIGHLIGHTS and EXPERIENCES: All five nights in one Akureyri hotel - less packing, more time for fun Three hotel choices and it is possible to book the tour without accommodation Optional excursions, activities and free time to tailor your own Best of North Iceland Travel through the interior highland on the Kjölur route Easy tour and suitable for nearly everybody Very attractive package price 8

ICELAND

ITINERARY

DURATION: 6 days / 5 nights

Note: This tour has an average of 1-2 hours of walking each day - it is an easy tour in which nearly everyone can take part.

MÝVATN EGILSSTAÐIR

VATNAJÖKULL

REYKJAVÍK

GULLFOSS & GEYSIR

SKAFTAFELL VÍK

VISIT US AT www.gjtravel.is

2016 DEPARTURES 32/E Sunday 19 June - 24 June 32/G Sunday 03 July - 08 July 32/I Sunday 17 July - 22 July 32/K Sunday 31 July - 05 August 32/M Sunday 14 August - 19 August 32/N Sunday 21 August – 26 August 32/O Sunday 28 August – 02 September 32/P Sunday 04 September – 09 September 32/Q Sunday 11 September – 16 September 32/R Sunday 18 September – 23 September LANGUAGES English and German ACCOMMODATION 4 choices: Budget-class hotel with shared facilities, standard-class hotel with private facilities and superior-class hotel. Location is Hella in South Iceland. It is possible to book the tour without accommodation. MEALS Daily breakfast included, except tour is booked without accommodation. ALSO INCLUDED Bus and guide for 6 days and ferry to/from Westman Islands. Please note, that the full day program on day 4 is optional and not included in the tour price. GROUP SIZE Maximum 35 persons OPTIONAL TOURS Can be bought in advance or during the tour with our tour guide TOUR CODE GJ 32

Day 1, SUN: ÞJÓRSÁRDALUR We travel alongside the Hekla volcano and

visit the Hjálparfoss waterfall. Nearby we explore the Viking farm ruins at Stöng and enjoy a leisurely hike to Gjáin, a green oasis in an otherwise rocky, barren moonlike landscape. Þjórsárdalur is off-the-beaten-path and is dominated by Hekla and other volcanoes in the vicinity. Hekla is one of Iceland’s most active volcanoes; over 20 eruptions have occurred since 874. During the Middle Ages, Europeans called the volcano the “Gateway to Hell”.

Day 2, MON: SOUTH SHORE We visit the glaciers, waterfalls, bird cliffs and lava beaches of South Iceland. The highlights today include the famous Eyjafjallajökull volcano, the 60 meter high Skógafoss waterfall and the narrow Seljalandsfoss waterfall with a trail that leads behind the fall – but you must be prepared to get wet! There is an optional glacier walk or a visit to Skógar village together with our guide.

Day 3, TUE: WESTMAN ISLANDS Ahoy! We take a short ferry ride to the Westman Islands. Explore the town of Heimaey and this extraordinary island on foot and by bus. The volcanic eruption in 1973 is considered the largest natural disaster in Iceland in recent history. The eruption began on January 23rd on the island of Heimaey, the only populated island of the Vestmannaeyjar archipelago. After the evacuation of the inhabitants, and during the 5 months while the eruption lasted, there was much uncertainty as to whether or not the island could ever be repopulated. During our tour to the Westman Islands we explore bird cliffs, walk up the volcano crater and visit “Pompeii of the North”, a volcanic excavation project. You have the afternoon free to wander around the town of Heimaey, with its birds and signs of recent volcanic eruptions. Day 4, WED: LEISURE DAY OR OPTIONAL DAY TOUR TO VATNAJÖKULL NATIONAL PARK Today is a leisure day. You can join an optional

day tour to the southern part of the Vatnajökull National Park, home of Europe’s largest glacier and Jökulsárlón, a glacier lagoon with floating icebergs.

Day 5, THU: GOLDEN CIRCLE A day to visit three of Iceland’s most important spots: Gullfoss waterfall, Geyser hot springs and Þingvellir National Park. Gullfoss “the golden falls“, is a double waterfall that tumbles 34 meters into the Hvítá river and attracts tourists and travelers all year. You see the steam from the Geysir geothermal fields as you arrive. There are a variety of hot springs and bubbling pools. The original geyser is now dormant and been replaced by Strokkur „the Churn“, which erupts at 5-10 minute intervals. Next stop is at the ancient Viking Parliament area of Þingvellir National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Hjálparfoss waterfall, Þjórsárdalur

THE BEST OF SOUTH ICELAND

GLACIERS, WATERFALLS & GEOLOGICAL WONDERS Explore the most famous sights in South Iceland from the countryside instead of taking long drives from Reykjavík. This 6-day tour focuses on guided day excursions from Hella, a small village in South Iceland, where you stay 5 nights. Staying in only one hotel means packing less and having more free time for you to enjoy. There are optional tours and activities you can join or have some time to relax, hike and sit in a hot tub! With all these choices – accommodations, activities and tours, shape your perfect stay in South Iceland. This tour is part of the 12-day Best of Iceland program and offers an excellent touring experience combined with exceptional value for money. HIGHLIGHTS and EXPERIENCES: We stay 5 nights in one hotel in Hella, South Iceland Three hotel choices and it is possible to book the tour without accommodation Free time, optional excursions and activities to tailor your own Best of South Iceland Full day visit to the Westman Islands Easy tour and suitable for nearly everybody Excellent value for money

ICELAND

ITINERARY

DURATION: 6 days / 5 nights

Day 6, FRI: REYKJANES PENINSULA, BLUE LAGOON AND REYKJAVÍK We take a less traveled route around Reykjanes Peninsula.

Diverse geological features, the hot springs of Krýsuvík, mountains, lava fields, amazing bird cliffs, moonlike landscapes and fishing villages are on today’s itinerary. The tour ends with a Reykjavík city tour after an optional visit to the famous Blue Lagoon.

Note: This tour has an average of 1-2 hours of walking each day - it is an easy tour in which nearly everyone can take part.

HÚSAVÍK AKUREYRI MÝVATN EGILSSTAÐIR

VATNAJÖKULL

REYKJAVÍK

GULLFOSS & GEYSIR

SKAFTAFELL

VÍK

VISIT US AT www.gjtravel.is

Accommodation - Restaurant Fishing - Hiking - ATV tours - Jeep tours Auroral house on the roof of the hotel Welcome to Hótel Laki

We are here for you. Eva, Þorsteinn, Hörður and Salóme.

www.hotellaki.is - hotellaki@hotellaki.is - Tel: +354 412 4600

For information and bookings: www.icelandairhotels.com or by telephone (+354) 444 4000.

YOUR TICKET TO ADVENTURE • MONSTER TRUCKS • SUPER JEEPS • SNOWMOBILES

www.mountaineers.is • E-mail: ice@mountaineers.is • Telephone: +354 580 9900

Good Night

A brilliant part of your Icelandic experience Discover Iceland via 8 luxury hotels at convenient locations around the country.

Welcome! cooking, Icelandic and internationael of the game! where cooking is the nam

5 best: Tables at the Top

rait Restaurant The Pearl (Reykjavik), The Port ), Tower Top (London), Sirrocco (Bangkok (París). (Zanzibar) & Maison Blanche Independent Online

12 places to see before you die — No. 5, The Pearl Modern Times

World’s top revolving restaurants

Enjoy the Freedom of Riding Come ride with us in the beautiful surroundings of our Íshestar Riding Centre. You get free transport from all major hotels and guesthouses in the capital area. For further information check out our website www.ishestar.is, call +354 555 7000 or be our friend on Facebook.

— No. 2, The Pearl Travel+Leisure

Congratulation We congratulate Stefán Elí Stefánsson, our head chef for his 1st place in the “Taste of France” competition. Held in Reykjavik in spring 2014.

lan.is · perlan@perlan.is (+354) 562 0200 · www.per The Pearl Restaurant · Tel.

HOTELS, RESTAURANTS & OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES FOLLOW US @ALAFOSS

Arhus | Hellu | Phone: +354-487 5577 | Fax: +354-487 5477 | email: arhus@arhus.is

Álafoss Main Store Álafossvegi 23 270 Mosfellsbær

Álafoss - Sweaters & souvenirs Laugavegi 8 Reykjavík City centre

Landmannalaugar

ICELAND WALKING & HIKING ADVENTURE

NATIONAL PARKS, INTERIOR HIGHLANDS & GLACIER HIKE The world at your feet! This tour program includes an average of 3-4 hours hiking and walking a day in the most stunning nature in South Iceland. We visit the Golden Circle sites, explore the interior highlands of Landmannalaugar, the glacial valley of Þórsmörk, the most fascinating volcanic landscapes at Lakagígar and the glacial wonders of Vatnajökull National Park. Your Icelandic adventure includes daily hiking, bathing in geothermal lagoons and rivers, climbing volcano craters, walking on glaciers and zodiac cruising between floating icebergs. Accommodation is provided in simple and clean hotels, cottages and guesthouses with private facilities. HIGHLIGHTS and EXPERIENCES: Small groups, maximum 20 persons Explore the interior highlands of Landmannalaugar, Þórsmörk and Laki Bath in hot rivers, walk on lava and explore two national parks 3,5 hour glacier hike & Zodiac cruise between floating icebergs Moderate daily hiking of 2-5 hours, 4-16 km and with an elevation from 200-800 meters Little to carry, as the tour bus will convey your luggage

2016 DEPARTURES German guided tours: 56/G Sunday 26 June - 03 July 56/I Sunday 10 July - 17 July 56/K Sunday 24 July - 31 July 56/M Sunday 07 August - 14 August 56/O Sunday 21 August - 28 August 56/Q Sunday 04 September - 11 September 56/S Sunday 18 September – 25 September English guided tours: 56/H Sunday 03 July - 10 July 56/J Sunday 17 July - 24 July 56/L Sunday 31 July – 07 August 56/N Sunday 14 August - 21 August 56/P Sunday 28 August - 04 September 56/R Sunday 11 September - 18 September LANGUAGES German or English ACCOMMODATION Simple country hotels, cottages and guesthouses – in rooms with shower/wc. This tour can also be booked without accommodation. MEALS 7x breakfast, 3x picnic lunch and 2x dinner, except tour is booked without accommodation. ALSO INCLUDED • Arrival & departure airport transfer by FLYBUS • Fully escorted 6-day bus tour with a German or English speaking guide • Visit to two national parks • Entrance with towel to the "Secret Lagoon" in Flúðir • 3,5 hour Vatnajökull glacier hike • Zodiac boat trip on glacial lagoon • Average of 3-4 hours moderate hiking/walking per day DIFFICULTY This tour is accessible and suitable to all those with good health and those who are doing some sport regularly and are able to walk/hike 4-6 hours with carrying only a day pack. This tour is based on moderate daily hiking of 2-5 hours, 4-16 km and with an elevation from 200-800 meters. Good hiking boots are needed and we recommend bringing walking poles GROUP SIZE Maximum 20 passengers TOUR CODE GJ 56

Day 2, MON: GOLDEN CIRCLE We start our adventure in Iceland with a

1-2 hour hike at the ancient Viking Parliament area and UNESCO World Heritage Site of Þingvellir National Park. We visit the active geothermal area of Geysir and explore Gullfoss waterfall. We continue to the “Secret Lagoon”, a natural hot spring, where you can get a true Icelandic bathing experience. 3 nights stay in South Iceland.

Day 3, TUE: LANDMANNALAUGAR Landmannalaugar is an oasis in the barren highlands, surrounded by colourful rhyolite mountains. We hike in a spectacular region with rough lava fields, hot springs, fascinating mountains with an incredible spectrum of colours. There is also a natural geothermal stream where you can enjoy a refreshing bath. On the way back to our accommodation we stop at the beautiful waterfall Hjálparfoss in Þjórsárdalur valley and pass one of Iceland’s most active volcanoes, Hekla. Day 4, WED: ÞÓRSMÖRK We start the day at the high but narrow Seljalandsfoss waterfall and continue to Þórsmörk, a wide valley named after Thor, the Viking God of Thunder. This beautiful valley is surrounded on three sides by steep mountains and glaciers. Fording raging glacial rivers and gentle streams is a big part of the great adventure. The landscape is dramatic with Eyjafjallajökull volcano towering on one side and the massive glacial river Markarfljót flowing on the other. Þórsmörk is one of the most popular hiking areas in Iceland and offers many breathtaking views from any top of the many mountains in this region. Be prepared for a 4-5 hours long challenging hike, a maximum of 800 meters ascend, and we might be rewarded with jaw dropping views. Day 5, THU: LAKI The craters in Laki, called Lakagígar, were formed in one of the world's largest volcanic eruptions in recorded history, are regarded as a globally unique phenomenon and are a protected natural monument. Laki is a very remote location and one of the most fascinating places within the Vatnajökull National Park. We explore this volcanic wonderland during a 2-3 hour hike. We also visit Fagrifoss which means “beautiful waterfall” in Icelandic, only too true! We stay for 2 nights at the simple but well located Hotel Skaftafell, next to Europe‘s largest glacier and beneath Iceland‘s highest mountain.

Day 6, FRI: GLACIER HIKE & GLACIAL LAGOON This is a day packed with fun activities and breathtaking sceneries. We start with a moderate 3,5 hour glacier hike in the majestic surroundings of Svínafellsjökull. An experienced glacier guide leads you safely through the glacial wonderland of strangely shaped ridges, deep crevasses, huge water cauldrons and different ice formations. In the afternoon we head over to the famous glacier lagoon for a ride on a Zodiac adventure boat, sailing between the icebergs of all shapes and sizes, which float in the clear blue water.

Day 7, SAT: VATNAJÖKULL NATIONAL PARK AND THE SOUTH Skaftafell is a part of the Vatnajökull National Park, the largest national park in Europe. We hike up to the Svartifoss waterfall, which is surrounded by black basalt columns. Now it is time to return towards Reykjavík. We cross the sandy desert of the South Coast, overlooked by mountainous cliffs, glaciers and waterfalls. We stroll along the black lava beach and bird cliffs near the village of Vík and stop at Skógafoss waterfall before arriving back at Iceland’s capital.

AKUREYRI MÝVATN EGILSSTAÐIR

Day 8, SUN: DEPARTURE HOME The FLYBUS shuttle takes you to Keflavik airport.

VATNAJÖKULL

REYKJAVÍK

SKAFTAFELL

Day 1, SUN: WELCOME TO ICELAND FLYBUS shuttle on arrival to Reykjavík.

HÚSAVÍK

GULLFOSS & GEYSIR

VÍK

ICELAND

ITINERARY

DURATION: 8 days / 7 nights

VISIT US AT www.gjtravel.is

2016 DEPARTURES English guided tours: 58/F Tuesday 21 June - 01 July 58/H Tuesday 05 July - 15 July 58/J Tuesday 19 July - 29 July 58/L Tuesday 02 August - 12 August 58/N Tuesday 16 August - 26 August 58/P Tuesday 30 August - 09 September LANGUAGES English ACCOMMODATION Superior-class hotels and simple mountain lodge – in standard or superior rooms with shower/wc. It is possible to book the tour without accommodation. MEALS 10x breakfast, 2x picnic lunch and 4x dinner, except tour is booked without accommodation. ALSO INCLUDED • Arrival & departure airport transfer by FLYBUS • Fully escorted 9-day bus tour with an English speaking guide • Visit to two national parks • Bird watching cruise on Breiðafjörður fjord • Entrance with towel to the “Secret Lagoon” in Flúðir • Admission to Skógar folk museum and turf houses • Boat trip on glacial lagoon • Introduction to the Icelandic horse • Average of 1-2 hours easy to moderate hiking per day GROUP SIZE Maximum 30 persons TOUR CODE GJ 58

New tour

Day 1, TUE: WELCOME TO ICELAND FLYBUS shuttle to Reykjavík. Day 2, WED: BIRD WATCHING CRUISE & VOLCANO HIKE We travel to

West Iceland for a 2-hour bird watching cruise between the uncountable islands of Breiðarfjörður bay. In the afternoon we follow the beautiful coastline of the Snæfellsnes Peninsula and climb the Grábrók volcano crater. Next stop is at Europe’s most powerful hot spring. We spend 2 nights in Húsafell, West Iceland.

Day 3, THU: WATERFALLS & OPTIONAL ICE CAVE TOUR We visit the magnificent Hraunfossar and Barnafoss waterfalls. Afternoon free for optional activities. You can join a hike with your guide or an optional, once-in-a-lifetime tour to visit the man-made ice tunnel and caves located on one of Europe‘s largest glaciers, Langjökull.

Day 4, FRI: HIGHLAND ROADS, NATIONAL PARK AND GEYSERS The gravel mountain road Kaldidalur takes us to Þingvellir National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and an area of exceptional geological and historical interest. Further east we visit the famous Geysir, the most energetic spouting hot spring in Iceland. We stay 2 nights at the Kerlingarfjöll Mountain Lodge, somewhere in the middle of nowhere.

Day 5, SAT: EXPLORING THE INTERIOR HIGHLANDS OF ICELAND The Kerlingarfjöll mountain massif is colourful and rich in contrasts with its peaks and valleys, glaciers and snowfields and all that lively geothermal activity, tempting both hikers and photographers alike. We hike about 2 hours and discover fuming steam vents, boiling mud pots and hot streams close to snow and ice. In the afternoon we travel to Hveravellir or “The Hot Spring Fields”, which appear like an oasis in this vast and barren highlands of Central Iceland. It is awesome sitting in a natural hot pool in the wilderness, in between two of Iceland´s glaciers, surrounded by multi-coloured boiling mud pools, huffing and puffing fumaroles and spectacular azure hot springs.

Day 6, SUN: LAND OF WATER AND LAVA Our first stop is at the

spectacular Gullfoss waterfall. Afterwards we soak in the “Secret Lagoon”, a natural geothermal spring. We continue alongside the Hekla volcano and visit the Hjálparfoss waterfall in Þjórsárdalur valley. Nearby we explore the Viking farm at Stöng and enjoy a leisurely hike to Gjáin, a green oasis in an otherwise rocky, barren moonlike landscape. We spend 2 nights in Hella, South Iceland.

Vatnajökull National Park

SPECTACULAR ICELAND

Day 7, MON: LANDMANNALAUGAR Today we explore a different part of the interior highlands of Iceland. Landmannalaugar is a paradise of raw nature, shapes and colours. We hike in a spectacular region with rough lava fields, hot springs and fascinating rhyolite mountains with an incredible spectrum of colours. There is also a natural geothermal stream where you can enjoy a hot bath.

SOFT ADVENTURE, EASY HIKING & WILDERNESS Enjoy the spectacular sceneries of West- and South Iceland and of the interior highlands and explore incredible sights and natural wonders. Iceland is all about the outdoors and connecting with nature. Several days are spent in the interior highlands, Europe’s last true wilderness, a landscape of stark, desolate and raw beauty. The interior of Iceland is uninhabited, offering cinematic vistas of seemingly infinite gravel plains, glacial rivers and lava fields punctuated by ice caps, volcanoes and jagged mountains. The tour is suitable for everyone that enjoys the outdoors, nature photography, hiking in the wild and experiencing spectacular scenery, combined with activities, soft adventure, easy to moderate hiking, sightseeing and relaxation.

Day 8, TUE: SOUTH ICELAND On the way towards Vatnajökull National Park we see two famous waterfalls, Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss, and Iceland‘s past comes alive at the Skógar folk museum with its turf houses. At the seaside, you can stroll on the black lava beach to see the amazing bird cliffs in Vík. We spend 2 nights at Hotel Glacier Lagoon.

Day 9, WED: VATNAJÖKULL NATIONAL PARK & GLACIER LAGOON Skaftafell area has a lot to offer for nature lovers. In the morning you may join a hike to Svartifoss waterfall with your tour guide or participate in an optional glacier walk on Svínafellsjökull glacier. In the afternoon we visit Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon and enjoy a boat ride amongst the floating icebergs.

HÚSAVÍK AKUREYRI MÝVATN

HIGHLIGHTS and EXPERIENCES: Interior highlands: Kaldidalur, Kerlingarfjöll, Hveravellir and Landmannalaugar Great diversity of landscape: from seascapes to barren highlands in the center of Iceland Easy to moderate walking tours (1 – 5 km) each day in geothermal and volcanic areas Bird watching cruise, sailing between icebergs and bathing in natural hot springs Choice of three accommodation categories: standard or superior rooms, but also camping Optional activities: glacier hike and ice cave

ICELAND

ITINERARY

DURATIONS: 11 days / 10 nights

EGILSSTAÐIR

VATNAJÖKULL

REYKJAVÍK

GULLFOSS & GEYSIR

Day 10, THU: CANYON & HORSES On our way back to Reykjavík we hike along Fjaðrárgljúfur, a spectacular and massive canyon which has sheer walls, and is somewhat serpentine and narrow. Next stop is Reynisfjara, a black pebble beach that features amazing cliffs of regular basalt columns resembling a rocky step pyramid. Before we arrive in Iceland‘s capital we enjoy a show featuring the Icelandic horse.

Day 11, FRI: DEPARTURE HOME FLYBUS airport transfer. SKAFTAFELL

VÍK

VISIT US AT www.gjtravel.is

Welcome to Greenland

GREENLAND Greenland is the largest island on Earth, but has only 56,000 inhabitants scattered along the coast and living in small settlements. The interior is covered by a huge ice-cap and glacial tongues extend into the sea. Enjoy the spectacular scenery of this beautiful country, rich in contrasts and full of wonderful opportunities for all visitors, regardless of age. We offer over 30 different overnight packages to this magnificent land of adventure: to its isolated east coast settlements, to the contrasting nature of the south coast and to the arctic wonderland of giant glaciers and icebergs in the west. EAST GREENLAND East Greenland is one of nature’s last remaining unspoilt regions on the planet and is considered the most authentic region of Greenland. DAY TOURS TO KULUSUK 3 – 5 DAY TOUR TO TASIILAQ 3 – 5 DAY TOUR TO KULUSUK & TASIILAQ

SOUTH GREENLAND The region is rich with Viking history and Eric the Red’s settlement in Brattahlið is a popular place to visit. South Greenland is heaven for hiking and activity holidays and can be perfectly combined with visits to different settlements, villages and towns. 2 – 4 DAY ADVENTURE BREAK 2 – 5 DAY TOUR TO NARSARSUAQ or NARSAQ 8 DAY SOUTH GREENLAND GRAND TOUR 8 DAY ADVENTURE & HIKING TOUR 8 DAY HIKING & CAMPING TOUR

WEST GREENLAND Ilulissat means icebergs in Greenlandic and the amazing Ice Fjord of Ilulissat was included on UNESCO’s World Heritage List in 2004. Nuuk is Greenland’s colourful capital city located at a wonderful fjord system and surrounded by spectacular mountains. 3 – 5 DAY TOUR TO ILULISSAT or NUUK 8 – 10 DAY SOUTH TO WEST GREENLAND BY AIR WEST GREENLAND COASTAL VOYAGES

Nuuk

Greenland West Coast

Sailing in East Greenland

COLOURFUL NUUK

COASTAL VOYAGES

ARCTIC CRUISES

The capital of Greenland is a fascinating city filled with contrasts, whether in culture or travel experiences. In Nuuk the modern Greenlandic society meets the old traditions and the 16,000 inhabitants live respecting the nature. The town is situated in a beautiful fjord system where the whales come in close in the summer and can be seen from the shore. Nuuk has it all – a new shopping mall and good restaurants, while at the harbor the Greenlandic hunters still bring in seal and reindeer to be sold at the local market. We offer several multiday packages including tours and activities such as sailing in the fjord, hiking, whale watching, city sightseeing, visiting a Greenlandic family, storytelling and exploring deserted Inuit settlements.

Coast sailing in Greenland is not only a spectacular nature experience, but also an opportunity to get close to the Greenlandic culture. Unlike other Arctic cruises that are designed for tourists, the Greenland coastal ferry carries more local passengers than foreign travellers. Greenlanders depend on the coastal ferry as an alternative to flying, and how lucky we are to have such a beautiful way to travel in Greenland! You dine alongside locals in the communal café and take in magnificent views from the upper decks. You have every chance to strike up a conversation and hear stories you won’t find anywhere in the internet. At the end of the journey, watch as your new acquaintances reunite with their families on the dock, and know that you are a witness to something unique to Greenland.

We offer a wide selection of Arctic Expedition Cruises in Spitsbergen, East- and West Greenland. While cruising and hiking in the Arctic regions, you become increasingly fascinated by the unique and dramatic wilderness, vast and open spaces, the history and the people. These expedition cruise programs focus on viewing wildlife and the breathtaking scenery: ragged and barren mountains, fjords, narrow waterways, glaciers, icebergs, miles and miles of gentle tundra with dozens of flowering plants in vivid colours. In the frigid waters animals such as belugas, walruses and several seal species can be spotted. Whether it is an adventure into history, an exploration of natural wonders, or a look at rare and amazing cultures, there is an awe-inspiring voyage for everyone to one of the world’s most remote regions.

VISIT US AT www.gjtravel.is 14

ICELAND

Ilulissat Ice Fjord

ICELAND

Ilulissat Ice Fjord

Eqi Glacier

Ilulissat

Kayak in South Greenland

ILULISSAT EXPRESS

ILULISSAT ADVENTURE

AMAZING DAYS IN ILULISSAT

SOUTH GREENLAND SOUTH GREENLAND ADVENTURE BREAKS HOTEL ADVENTURE

This is the most exotic short break to Greenland! Experience in two days the most magnificent arctic nature and insight to Inuit culture. Ilulissat, the town of the icebergs, offers dramatic scenery at the mouth of the UNESCO designated Ilulissat Icefjord, where traditional Inuit culture is combined with modern life north of the Polar Circle. This fully escorted 2-day tour package includes a round trip flight Reykjavik-Ilulissat in West Greenland, a welcome meeting, an Ilulissat city tour, a midnight cruise and a guided walk to the famous Icefjord.

The location of Ilulissat in West Greenland is breathtaking. Huge icebergs raising more than hundred meters above sea level are stranded at the mouth of the fjord. These icebergs are all products of the mighty and most productive glacier in the northern hemisphere. The Ilulissat Glacier daily gives birth to 20 million tons of ice. This fully escorted tour package includes a round trip flight Reykjavik -Ilulissat, a welcome meeting, an Ilulissat city tour, a midnight cruise, an Eqi glacier boat trip, a guided walk to the Icefjord, and hotel accommodation with breakfast and dinner.

West Greenland is one of the premier destinations for people dreaming of a trip to the Arctic. Unspoiled wilderness, giant icebergs, glittering glaciers, large whales and the exciting mix of authentic Inuit culture and a modern society pulse under the magical light of the midnight sun. 4,000 people and about 3,500 sled dogs live in Ilulissat, West Greenland. This 4 or 5 days fully escorted program includes a round trip flight Reykjavik-Ilulissat, a welcome meeting, daily excursions, and a 3 or 4 nights hotel stay with daily breakfast and two dinners.

South Greenland is blessed with an extraordinary and untamed beauty located on the edge of the unexplored Arctic. These fully -escorted and unique adventure trips take you from Iceland to South Greenland and include accommodation with private facilities. You explore iceberg filled fjords with adventurous RIB boats, navigate close to large glacier fronts, walk to the Flower Valley, enjoy spectacular mountain views and get kayaking opportunities among icebergs. You gain first-hand knowledge of the home of the Inuit and the history of its first settlers.

A fully - escorted adventure tour, staying in hotels and guesthouses. Navigate a sea filled with icebergs and hike with crampons on one of the world’s oldest ice fields. Visit the towns of Narsaq and Qaqortoq, and several Inuit settlements. See local fauna such as eagles, caribou, foxes, arctic hares, whales and seals. Explore Viking ruins and the most important archaeological treasures in the South of Greenland. The trip includes a cultural exchange with locals, a 4x4 tour and a helicopter trip with unforgettable views of the fjord system and the Inland Ice Cap.

DURATION: 3 days / 2 nights

DEPARTURES June – September LANGUAGES English

DURATION: 2-4 days

DURATION: 8 days / 7 nights

DEPARTURES June – September LANGUAGES English

DURATION: 2 days / 1 night DEPARTURES Daily, July – August LANGUAGES English

DEPARTURES June – August LANGUAGES English

DURATION: 4-5 days

Glacier hike South Greenland

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2016 DEPARTURES 95/A Sunday 11 Sept – 22 Sept LANGUAGES English ACCOMMODATION Tourist class hotel in Iceland and Greenland cruise, rooms with shower/wc MEALS 11x breakfast, 6x lunch and 7x dinner ALSO INCLUDED • Arrival & departure airport transfer by FLYBUS • 4 night accommodation in Iceland as per itinerary • 3 escorted excursions with an English speaking guide in Iceland • Bus and entrance fee at the Blue Lagoon • 8 day/7 night Northeast Greenland expedition cruise from/to Iceland including all miscellaneous service taxes and port charges throught the program, meals including snacks, coffee and tea throughout the voyage and excursions and lectures as per itinerary • Bus transfer Reykjavik -Akureyri-Reykjavik. GROUP SIZE 116 persons on the Greenland Expedition Cruise TOUR CODE GJ 95A

ITINERARY

ICELAND

DURATION: 12 days / 11 nights

Day 1, SUN: WELCOME TO ICELAND FLYBUS shuttle from Keflavík International airport to Reykjavík.

Day 2, MON: REYKJAVÍK, BLUE LAGOON & NORTHERN Guided

Reykjavík city tour in the morning. Afternoon bus trip and entrance to the famous Blue Lagoon. Guided evening tour in search of the elusive Northern Lights.

Day 3, TUE: GOLDEN CIRCLE Full day guided Golden Circle tour. Explore the Geysir hot springs and Gullfoss waterfall. Travel to Þingvellir National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Day 4, WED: EMBARK M/V ORTELIUS IN NORTH ICELAND Transfer by bus from Reykjavík in the morning to the ship in Akureyri, where we arrive in the afternoon after six hours drive from South to North Iceland. In the early evening board the ice-strengthened ship M/V ORTELIUS designed for Polar expedition cruises, and set sail from Iceland north towards the Denmark Strait.

Day 5, THU: AT SEA As we sail north we are almost certain to see Fulmar, Kittiwake, Gannet and rafts of Common Guillemot, perhaps whales. We cross the Arctic Circle and push further north. Towards the evening the first icebergs will appear as we approach the east coast of Greenland.

Day 6, FRI: VOLQUART BOONS COAST Sailing along the ragged and

glaciated Volquart Boons Coast, we may organise a zodiac cruise along one of the glacier fronts and have our first landing near a glacier. Later we visit the remains of an Inuit settlement abandoned around 200 years ago. In the evening we continue to sail through the beautiful fjords to the west, filled with icebergs.

Day 7, SAT: CAPE HOFMANN HALVO We go ashore at Cape Hofmann

Halvø, a reliable spot for viewing animals and birds: Musk Oxen, Rock Ptarmigan and Great Northern Diver. In the evening we sail through the fjord towards Scoresby Land enjoying the contrast between the warm autumnal colours of the vegetated shore, backed by huge dark mountains and the cold blue colours of the icebergs.

Expedition Cruise East Greenland

ICELAND & NORTHEAST GREENLAND VOYAGE NATURE, WILDLIFE, HISTORY AND NORTHERN LIGHTS

Join a spectacular tour in the Arctic. After exploring Iceland, a country of fire and ice, take an expedition ship to Northeast Greenland, far above the Arctic Circle. Voyage to places where most people have never been. This tour focuses on Northern Lights, nature, history and wild life. Iceland awaits you with an interesting mix of mountainous and volcanic landscape: fjords, lava fields, hot springs and volcanoes unfold as you explore Iceland. The Greenland expedition brings you to one of the world's most remote locations, a place of astonishing natural beauty and pure untouched wilderness. Cruise through deep fjords with giant icebergs and glaciers and explore Inuit settlements and Arctic wild life. Take part in tundra hikes and zodiac trips. In both countries, Northern Lights dance across the Arctic sky on a clear night. This is truly a classic and comfortable discovery voyage to Iceland and to remote Northeast Greenland.

Day 8, SUN: SYDKAP IN SCORESBY LAND We sail past huge icebergs which are up to 100 m high and more than a kilometre long. Many have grounded because the fjord is “only” about 400 m deep. We land near Sydkap to view the remains of the Thule culture winter houses. Day 9, MON: ITTOQQORTOORMIIT We land at the south coast of Jameson Land, where waders and geese are gathering for the autumn migration. Musk Oxen and Collared Lemming survive on the meagre vegetation of the hills. We visit Ittoqqortoormiit, the biggest settlement in Scoresby Sund with about 400 inhabitants. You explore the village, see the sledge dogs and the drying skins of seals, Musk Oxen and Polar Bears and see what life is like at the end of the world! Day 10, TUE: AT SEA The day at sea offers chances to spot whales, migrating seabirds and if conditions are right, perhaps the Aurora Borealis!

Day 11, WED: ARRIVAL IN NORTH ICELAND Arrive in Akureyri and transfer by chartered bus to Reykjavik.

Day 12, THU: IT'S TIME TO SAY GOODBYE The FLYBUS airport shuttle brings you to Keflavík airport.

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2016 DEPARTURES Every Friday from June-August LANGUAGES English ACCOMMODATION Superior tourist-class hotels in Iceland - in rooms with shower/wc. 4 star hotel in Greenland MEALS 13x breakfast and 2x dinner in Greenland ALSO INCLUDED • Arrival & departure airport transfer by FLYBUS • Fully escorted 6-day bus tour in Iceland with an English speaking guide • Visit to natural history & seal museum in Hvammstangi • Visit to Viðimýri turf church • Entrance with towel at Mývatn Nature Baths • Admission to Petra’s Stone and Mineral Collection in the East Fjords • Multimedia presentation at Eyjafjallajökull Volcano Information Center • Visit to Icelandic horse stables & geothermal greenhouse • Flight Reykjavik-Ilulissat-Reykjavik including all airport transfers and taxes • 4 guided excursions in West Greenland as per itinerary • Bus to Blue Lagoon including entrance fee and towel GROUP SIZE Maximum 40 persons in Iceland TOUR CODE GJ 92 & Wonders of Ilulissat

New tour Rodebay in West Greenland

ICELAND & GREENLAND DISCOVERY

ICELAND’S RING ROAD & AMAZING WEST GREENLAND Travel on Iceland's ring road and discover stunning scenery and dramatic landscapes. A local expert guide helps you explore the unspoiled Icelandic countryside with volcanoes, lava fields, hot springs, mountains, fjords, glaciers and waterfalls. This escorted tour takes you both to classic nature hotspots and lesser-known sights, and includes several soft adventures and cultural visits. Continue your discovery tour to Ilulissat in West Greenland, a breathtaking location with huge icebergs, unspoiled wilderness, glittering glaciers, large whales and the exciting mix of authentic Inuit culture and a modern society under the magical light of the midnight sun. HIGHLIGHTS and EXPERIENCES: 10 days Iceland and 4 days Greenland 6-day fully escorted coach tour around Iceland's ring road Superior tourist-class hotels at prime locations in Iceland Included are visits to small local museums, cultural experiences and soft adventures 4 guided excursions in Greenland to explore nature and culture First class accommodation in Greenland

ITINERARY

ICELAND

DURATION: 14 days / 13 nights

Day 1, FRI: WELCOME to ICELAND FLYBUS shuttle to Reykjavík. Day 2, SAT: WEST ICELAND Meet the tour guide and travel west, passing the town of Borgarnes and climb the Grábrók volcano crater. Visit a natural history & seal museum, stop at the turf church of Víðimýri and continue along scenic fjord landscape and over several mountain passes to Akureyri.

Day 3, SUN: NORTH ICELAND Explore Akureyri, the capital of North Iceland and travel to Goðafoss, the waterfalls of the Gods. Continue to Lake Mývatn which is known for its geological wonders and active bird life during summer. Stop at bizarre lava formations, walk around pseudo craters and soak at Mývatn Nature Baths. Overnight at Lake Mývatn.

Day 4, MON: TRAVEL EAST Hike in a lava labyrinth at Dimmuborgir, visit the hot spring area of Námaskarð with bubbling mud pools and steaming solfataras and travel to Dettifoss, Europe’s most powerful waterfall. Head through the uninhabited highlands and moonlike surroundings to East Iceland.

Day 5, TUE: FJORDS, GLACIER AND ICE It's a day to admire the dramatic fjord landscape and its tiny fishing villages at the end of twisty roads in the East Fjords. Visit an interesting stone and mineral collection and stop at Jökulsárlón, a glacial lagoon filled with floating icebergs. We spend time at Europe's largest national park, which has Iceland's highest mountains, an alpine environment and Europe's largest glacier. Overnight in Kirkjubæjarklaustur. Day 6, WED: SOUTH COAST A beautiful drive with many natural wonders awaits us: lava fields, sandy deserts, mountainous cliffs, glaciers, black lava beaches and waterfalls. At the Eyjafjallajökull Information Center learn about living next to a glacier and an active volcano. Overnight location is Flúðir in South Iceland.

Day 7, THU: ICELANDIC HORSES & GOLDEN CIRCLE At Friðheimar learn about the Icelandic horse, its special qualities and history and visit a geothermal greenhouse. Explore Geysir geothermal fields with a variety of hot springs and bubbling pools. Gullfoss is a double waterfall that tumbles 34 meters into the Hvítá river and Þingvellir National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage site. Short city tour in Reykjavík and 2-night stay in Iceland’s capital.

Day 8, FRI: LEISURE DAY IN REYKJAVIK or optional super jeep tour to Þórsmörk glacial valley

Day 9, SAT: TRAVEL TO WEST GREENLAND Airport transfer and flight

from Reykjavik to Ilulissat. Transfer and welcome meeting at 4 star Hotel Arctic. Guided city walk of Ilulissat, welcome dinner and midnight sailing trip to the famous Ilulissat ice fjord that is the world's largest ice sculpture park.

Day 10, SUN: HUNTER’S SETTLEMENT By boat to the small settlement

Oqaatsut/Rodebay with a local population of about 40 persons totally dependent on fishing and hunting - a quite different world compared to the nearby town of Ilulissat. Guided walk through the village before enjoying lunch at the old trading station.

Day 11, MON: INUIT SETTLEMENT AT ILULISSAT ICEFJORD Guided walking tour to the old Inuit settlement in the Sermermiut valley on the famous Ilulissat Icefiord that was inscribed on UNESCO's World Heritage List in 2004. Learn about local history and Inuit customs and admire the views across the majestic icebergs. Rest of the day free at leisure to hike along the ice fjord and explore the town of Ilulissat. Farewell dinner at Hotel Arctic.

Day 12, TUE: TRAVEL BACK TO ICELAND Spend some time in the

morning to explore the town of Ilulissat and last minute Greenland shopping. Return by flight to Reykjavik and stay 2 nights in Iceland’s capital.

Day 13, WED: BUS & ENTRANCE TO BLUE LAGOON Day 14, THU: DEPARTURE HOME Individual transfer by FLYBUS airport shuttle to Keflavík Airport.

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Three-star hotel located in West Iceland

THE VOLCANO ISLAND www.vikingtours.is - tel. 488 4884

The hotel has ninety well appointed, attractive rooms and apartments all equipped with shower, television, telephone and free WiFi access. The hotel has a good restaurant and excellent facilities for meetings and conferences for both large and small groups. Every effort is made to provide guests with good and personal service.

Borgarnes is 70 kilometres west of Reykjavik and 120 kilometres from the Keflavik international airport. The hotel is perfectly located in the centre of the town, within a few minutes walk from the harbour, geothermal swimming pool, historical monuments and interesting museums. Many attractive places are in a short distance of Borgarnes like hot springs, magnificent waterfalls, great salmon rivers, numerous lakes and mountains. Hiking, fishing, golf, pony trekking and scenic Northern Lights are also among the area attractions and guided tours of the area can be arranged on request.

HOTEL BORGARNES Egilsgata 6

Tel. +354 437 1119 Fax +354 437 1443 info@hotelborgarnes.is www.hotelborgarnes.is

Maxâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Restaurant @ Northern Light Inn www.nli.is - 2 minutes from the Blue Lagoon - tel. 426 8650

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Comfort rest and relaxation

Hotel Kea Hotel Nordurland Hotel Borg Hotel Gigur Apotek Hotel Skuggi Hotel Reykjavik Lights Hotel Storm Hotel Head Office: Skipagata 18 - 600 Akureyri - Iceland Tel. +354 4602050 - keahotels@keahotels.is - www.keahotels.is

Arctic Hotel Mikligarður

The summer hotel Mikligarður is in the beautiful village Sauðárkrókur which is in the Skagafjörður provence. We offer 65 rooms with private facilities and complimentary toiletries Free internet access. The hotel has an elevator and specially equipped rooms for disabled people are available. Open 01.06-20.08 Arctic Hotels - Skagfirðingabraut 24 - 550 Sauðárkrókur - Iceland - Tel. 00354 453 6330 - info@arctichotels.is - www.arctichotels.is - GPS points N 65°44,536´W019°38,670´

The Hotel and restaurant are open all year round Sími 487 8780 - www.hotelskogafoss.is

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East Fjords, Iceland

SELF DRIVE ADVENTURES

ICELAND

ACCOMMODATION We have partnered up with selected hotels around Iceland, which we offer in all our Nice & Easy Self Drive programs: Reykjavik – Guesthouse Borgartún with possibility to upgrade to Grand Hotel West Iceland – Hotel Framnes in Grundarfjörður North Iceland – Hotel Norðurland in Akureyri Northeast Iceland – Hotel Laxá, Lake Mývatn East Iceland – Fosshotel Eastfjords in Fáskrúðsfjörður Southeast Iceland – Hotel Laki cottages near Kirkjubæjarklaustur South Iceland – Hotel Örk in Hveragerði The Nice & Easy programs are only offered using these specific hotels. Changing of itinerary or accommodation is not possible, but extra nights can be added in the following areas: Reykjavik, Hotel Örk in South Iceland and Hotel Framnes in West Iceland. RENTAL CARS GJ-Travel can provide very good prices from our main rental car partner in Iceland. With a wide variety of cars, from cozy and fuel efficient, to 4WD for taking on Iceland’s mountain roads, and then on to vans and multi passenger vehicles.

HOW TO PLAN A DRIVING TOUR

1. Determine the best Nice & Easy program for you, keeping in mind that all of our Nice & Easy programs are similar but they differ in length and each have their own specific twist. All programs cover the Ring Road and the longer programs also include a stopover on the Snæfellsnes Peninsula. The largest factor in deciding which program suits you best is of course the number of days you plan on using for your Self Drive tour. Another important factor is which areas or activities interest you. In the end, all this combined can help you decide which program suits you best. 2. Pick the car that will work for your interests and routing. If you have a short tour and plan on keeping to Route 1, the Ring Road, you will be fine with a 2WD car. If you would like to get a bit off the beaten track, you should consider a 4WD vehicle. Cars in Iceland have plenty of room for people, but not always enough luggage space. The smallest 4WD is fine for two people but will work for 4 only if you’re traveling very lightly. Small cars are quite efficient, but if you have more than 3 people traveling, you’ll be more comfortable in something bigger. 3. Decide what’s most important to see and do – It’s important to be able to

determine your wishes—some people enjoy driving through interesting landscapes, so you’ll want to cover some more miles. Others want plenty of time to stop a lot, hike, wander in small villages, and head off on a marked trail that they see by the side of the road. Take a look at the activities we offer for your selected tour, and decide what’s most interesting to you. Pre-booking any interesting activities offers you a more relaxed and organized tour. Figure 2-4 hours of each organized activity tour. There are other practical considerations which influence the amount of daily driving and possibilities of booking activities, e.g. small children. As Iceland is jam packed with interesting and unusual sights, we generally urge people to drive less so they can be out of the car more. 4. Our five Nice & Easy programs are all similar but each one offers something a bit different. All are based on the same sequence of travel around Iceland, based on the hotels mentioned above. We offer very detailed itineraries of 50-60 pages specifically written for each program. We also include a detailed activity guide which offers information on various activities and natural phenomena around Iceland. By offering this very detailed information, we ensure that you will be able to make the most of your stay in Iceland and have enough information on anything that may interest you.

THE ALTERNATIVE WAY TO SEE ICELAND

ROUTE 1 OR THE “RING ROAD”

Guðmundur Jónasson Travel now offers a new concept for Self Drive clients, with five different driving packages around Iceland: The Nice & Easy System. This new system is based on predetermined hotels and offers exceptional value for money as well as an easy booking process.

It is the main road in Iceland which goes around the island, mostly along the coast, connecting many villages and towns. The total length of Route 1 is 1,360 kilometers (843 miles). In general, driving tours around Iceland with the most popular side trips are about 2000 km (1.240 miles). If you add the Westfjords, calculate about 3000 km (1.860 miles) of driving.

WHAT IS SO SPECIAL ABOUT THE GJ-TRAVEL DRIVING TOURS? Instant availability – We have a total of 2 rooms on allotment for our programs, every day from May throughout September, along with an overview system which allows us to confirm bookings and availability instantly. Great Value for money – By only offering specific programs at predetermined hotels, we are able to offer great value for money. We have also teamed up with some of the most popular activity operators around the country and offer pre-booking of selected activities along the way. Educating Itineraries – each driving tour comes with a very detailed itinerary, tied to the accommodations, full of ideas on what to see and do, regional maps, information about countryside attractions, opening hours, hiking trails, and some history on the areas passed through. It is useful, informative and fun.

ICELANDIC COTTAGES

LOCATED IN THE SKAGAFJÖRÐUR AREA The cottages are located in Varmahlíð, a short walking distance from the village. They are of different sizes and can accommodate up to eight persons. Each cottage has a fully equipped kitchen and bathroom with shower. In the centre of the cottage area there is a natural hot pot which is ideal for a relaxing bathe. FIVE COTTAGES TO RENT FROM ONE NIGHT ONWARDS SUITABLE FOR 2 - 8 PERSONS

For almost all its length, Route 1 is two lanes wide, paved, but with some stretches of unpaved gravel surface in the east. Many smaller wooden bridges are single lane with a spot to pull over while any oncoming vehicles cross. Traffic on Route 1 varies by location; near Reykjavík there are 5,000–10,000 vehicles per day, but farther away from the larger towns it is fewer than 100 vehicles per day on average. Route 1 is popular with tourists as it circles the country and many sights of interest are not far from it. In the countryside, it feels like on a country road, with blind curves and hills, one lane bridges, and narrow passes, and the occasional sheep! In winter, icy roads and big winds can make travel especially hazardous. The maximum speed on most of the road is 90 kilometers per hour (56 mph) where paved and 80 kilometers per hour (50 mph) over gravel.

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Grábrók volcano crater, West Iceland

Blue Lagoon, Reykjanes Peninsula

SPECIAL GROUPS Guðmundur Jónasson Travel are the specialists to turn to when you want a tailor made group tour or holiday in Iceland. We focus our full attention on putting together a special tour for your group, which is individually designed for your group and your group alone. Simply tell us where you want to go, what activities or stops you have in mind, and we will put together the ideal group program for you and your group members. If you’re new to Iceland, don’t worry – our group tour specialists will be happy to lay out the many possibilities. All tours can be shaped according to your travel time and budget, from luxury hotels to basic camping, whether for one day or many, taking in the sights with a well trained guide, or action packed days to experience Iceland’s landscape. GJ-Travel can provide all the services you need; our own fleet of Mercedes buses, qualified and experienced tour guides, itinerary planning, booking restaurants, accommodation, museums, entertainment, activities and many other things to make your tour comfortable, informative and enjoyable. By combining your own ideas and special interests with our knowledgeable tour planning team, we can create your own unique group tour that will show you what you want to see in Iceland, Greenland and the Faroe Islands. Iceland is a country that inspires visitors year round. Spring offers brightening days and emerging flora and fauna, summer has nearly round-the-clock sunlight and balmy weather, autumn brings a wonderful change in colours while winter features dark mysterious days, softly glowing Northern Lights and even occasionally snow. The hardest part is choosing when to visit. WHY BOOK WITH US

www.gjtravel.is

Our tailor made group tours are based on your ideas, your budget, your interests and needs, to give you freedom and flexibility VISIT US AT We want your group to have a real Icelandic experience, and to get the most out of our magnificent homeland! Our group tour team adds experience, expertise, and local knowledge to work hand in hand with our clients It is easy for group leaders because we take care of the entire organisation and finer details in Iceland. All you and your group members need to do is relax and enjoy your holiday in our country! Your group members can rely on our commitment to superior customer service With GJ-Travel you get a partner who has been creating amazing tours in Iceland for 80 years 22

Icelandic lamb dish

ICELAND

Santa in Reykjavík

Þingvellir Church

Drangey island, Skagafjörður

Geysir, South Iceland

Great seasonal ideas for your groups! CHRISTMAS IN REYKJAVIK

DELICIOUS FOOD & VIKING HISTORY

EASTER BREAK REYKJAVIK

MIDNIGHT SUN IN NORTH ICELAND

GEOLOGY TOURS FOR SCHOOL GROUPS

Christmas starts early in Iceland and is for many the favorite time of the year. In November Christmas lights appear all over the city and the popular Christmas village in Hafnarfjörður opens at weekends by the end of the month. You might even catch a glimpse of the 13 Icelandic yuletides!

This appetizing new spring tour is based in Reykjavík and explores Icelandic culture and its delightful local food. You meet Icelanders, discover their culinary secrets, learn about Iceland’s Viking history and witness impressive volcanic landscape. It is nature by day and the city by night!

Easter is special in Iceland, with fewer visitors than the summer months. It is a great time to explore the nature and the Viking heritage, visit waterfalls, hot springs and national parks. Have plenty of free time for shopping, soaking in the famous Blue Lagoon or optional whale watching.

June brings the reign of the sun there is 24 hours of day light in Iceland. Take this opportunity to see the midnight sun and experience the midnight that is as bright as mid day.

Iceland is a living text book, a geographer’s and geologist’s ultimate playground. It is a perfect destination for educational group tours as theory becomes visible with spouting geysers, volcanic landscapes and giant glaciers. The ideal season for these trips is October to April.

HIGHLIGHTS AND VALUES:

Experience Icelandic Christmas traditions and delicious cuisine. You have a full day sightseeing in Reykjavik and explore the famous Golden Circle. Free time for shopping and relaxing in the festive atmosphere. Included are 4 nights stay, airport transfers, 2 full day tours, welcome and farewell dinner and the “Let’s talk Iceland” comedy show.

Tour Iceland’s capital, the national museum and the volcano house. See the famous Golden Circle and the scenic Hvalfjörður fjord, visit a horse show, a geothermal greenhouse and a sheep farm. Explore delicious foods, prepare and taste an Icelandic meal, enjoy many educational opportunities and get to know some Icelanders along the way.

Explore Reykjavík and visit the Viking settlement museum. A full day excursion brings you to the attractions of the Golden Circle. Meet Vikings for dinner and discover the mystery of Iceland’s Easter eggs. This 5 day/4 night program includes accommodation in Reykjavik, return airport transfer and a welcome dinner with an Icelandic Easter twist.

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HIGHLIGHTS AND VALUES: Visit must-see highlights on the Golden Circle route and the Borgarfjörður Saga valley and around Lake Mývatn. Travel off-the-beaten path to find Iceland’s hidden secrets. See the past at a turf farm, go bird watching, or go for an optional horseback ride. Enjoy an evening walk through Akureyri, the capital of the North. Top the trip off with a midnight sail on a fjord in Northwest Iceland. This 7-day journey brings you to West-, North- and South Iceland.

HIGHLIGHTS AND VALUES:

During 4-day nature sightseeing tours, students learn about volcanic eruptions in the past and how Icelanders have used the geothermal heat in their daily life. Trips include a visit to the Volcano House, a lecture at a geothermal power plant and greenhouse, bathing in the popular Blue Lagoon, and a visit the Eyjafjallajökull volcano information center.

YOUR TRAVEL AGENT

GUESTHOUSE BORGARTÚN

BUS RENTAL

You can be sure of a warm welcome at Guesthouse Borgartún, which is situated on the upper floors above Guðmundur Jónasson Travel and is open throughout the year. We offer a breakfast buffet, and there is a number of restaurants nearby. As Guðmundur Jónasson Travel is also in the same building, your excursion arrangements could not be easier. Guesthouse Borgartún is on the main bus route into the city centre. A 30 minute walk by the sea also takes you to the centre. The main swimming pool with hot pots and steam bath is only a 10 minute walk away.

Our fleet numbers 25 Mercedes-Benz buses, ranging in size from 10 to 62 seats, and we have specially equipped kitchen buses and trailers. Buses are available for hire all the year round, for trips as short as taking a group from their hotel to a restaurant in town, for a highland camping trip or for a hotel tour. All buses offer free Wi-Fi. We can tailor a package to suit your exact requirements – with tour guide, staffed kitchen bus, hotel accommodation or tents, airport-city transfers, and any other requirement you may need. If you have a group that wants to explore Iceland, contact us. Ask for our special group offer for escorted day excursions.

REYKJAVÍK

20 EN-SUITE ROOMS ALL ROOMS HAVE TV, CLOCK RADIO, HAIRDRYER AND FREE WI-FI ALL ROOMS ARE NON SMOKING OPEN ALL THE YEAR ROUND BREAKFAST BUFFET LOUNGE WITH TV AND INTERNET ACCESS LIFT TO ALL FLOORS 10 MINUTES WALK TO OUTDOOR SWIMMING POOL 10 MINUTES WALK TO LEISURE CENTRE 30 MINUTES WALK TO THE CITY CENTRE TRAVEL BUREAU IN THE SAME BUILDING ALL MAJOR CREDIT CARDS ACCEPTED

GUÐMUNDUR JÓNASSON

Guðmundur Jónasson Travel Borgartún 34, 105 Reykjavík, Iceland Tel: +354-511 1515 Fax: +354-511 1511 Borgartún Guest House Direct Line: +354-511 1500 Bus Company Direct Line: +354-511 1550 Email: gjtravel@gjtravel.is www.gjtravel.is OFFICE HOURS ALL YEAR MONDAY TO FRIDAY 09:00-17:00 FROM MID JUNE UNTIL MID AUGUST SATURDAY & SUNDAY 09:00-12:00 PHOTOS: Dieter Schweizer, Renato Grünenfelder, Iceland Activities, Arctic Adventures, Stefan Thaler, North Sailing, Cristina Candel, Oceanwide Expeditions, Tasermiut Expeditions, Hotel Rangá DESIGN: BORGAR ÍMYND / PRINTING: LITRÓF

OUR BUSES ARE AVAILABLE FOR ALL OCCASIONS INCLUDING: BUS RENTAL INDEPENDENT GROUPS STUDY TOURS CONFERENCES AND INCENTIVES EXCURSIONS AIRPORT TRANSFERS SCHOOL GROUPS

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FULL BOOKING INFORMATION AND LIABILITY RESTRICTIONS ARE AVAILABLE ON REQUEST OR VISIT OUR WEBSITE

IMPORTANT NOTICE

We are always trying to improve our services and we would appreciate your help. Should you for any reason not be satisfied with the services provided during your stay, please inform our tour guide or a member of our staff, so that the situation can be rectified immediately. We can not guarantee a satisfactory solution to any complaint if it is not advised to us during your stay in Iceland. Thank you for your cooperation!