Pure. Natural. Unspoiled.

ICELAND
2009

ICELANDIC TOURIST BOARD

www.goiceland.org
Nature and nightlife. Art and activity.
A visit to Iceland offers everything you need to experience an unforgettable vacation
whether it’s for a long weekend or a 10-day exploration. In a single day you can
snowmobile across a glacier, photograph graceful whales, jam in a jazz concert
and indulge in delicious Arctic lobster caught earlier in the day.

Iceland’s unique ecology, mild climate, friendly citizenry and unmistakable

sense of style combine to form a nation like no other on the planet.
Where else in one place will you find 800 hot springs, 10,000 waterfalls,
15 active volcanoes, and 4,500 square miles of glaciers?

This is Iceland. Pure, Natural, Unspoiled.

“Why would you be anywhere else?”
The Wall Street Journal
 Reykjavik
Culture is in our Nature
With a population of 200 000, Reykjavik is recognized for its pure
energy, thriving culture, sparkling nightlife and creative
atmosphere. It’s clean and safe streets shine with eye popping
color whether it’s the grassy piazzas, historic buildings, or azure
blue ocean peeking through the vibrantly hued houses. Air and
noise pollution are at a bare minimum, making it easy to enjoy
this truly distinctive tourist destination.
Connecting Through Culture
Icelanders enjoy their culture in a variety of ways and invite you
to join along. Art enthusiasts should visit the stunning
4 photographs and artwork inspired by the country’s incredible
nature at the National Gallery and the Museum of Photography.
The northernmost opera house in the world, a new concert hall
opening on the harbor in 2010 and a special Culture Night held
2 3
every August are just a few cultural morsels on offer. Broadway-
style musicals bring out the best-of-the-best talent with very
reasonable ticket prices. Many of Reykjavik’s live music venues
are in small intimate settings where Iceland’s hot music scene
can be experienced up close and personal.
Icelandic Icons
One of the most visible structures in Reykjavik is the Hallgrims-
kirkja church where a trip to the top rewards with spectacular
views including a glacier on a clear day. Perlan is where beauty
meets function as a glass dome sits atop the city’s hot water
reservoirs. Inside is a revolving restaurant for elegant dinners
and a café open for lunch if you just want to grab an ice cream
and enjoy the 360° views. Iceland’s Parliament is located off the
grassy Austurvollur square, which is just a stone’s throw from
4 5
Reykjavik harbor. These sites and many others are easily accessed on foot, 1 Next door to nature
or by city bus tours which run 2 hours every day. 2 Tjornin Lake
3 Café Day
Kids at Play 4 Museum of Photography
Kids love Reykjavik and are welcome everywhere. Start by feeding the swans 5 Organic options
on Tjornin Pond downtown and then head to the tranquil Laugar Valley 6 The girls next door
where they can visit the Reykjavik Zoo and Family Park to spot seals and 7 Swimming in it
arctic foxes. Finish the day at one of the city’s many outdoor swimming pools.
Layout: Prentsnid, Iceland
Close to Home Printed by: Isafoldarprentsmidja, Iceland
Cover photo: Ragnar Th. Sigurdsson; “Heimir”, Skagafjordur north Iceland
Just outside the city limits of Reykjavik lies the friendly town of Kopavogur Photographs by: Ragnar Th. Sigurdsson, Arctic Images
with its new concert hall, art museum, shopping mall and sports arena. A little www.arctic-images.com, exept: Sigurgeir Sigurjonsson, 5
farther down the road, the colorful town of Hafnarfjordur is nestled in a lava www.icelandportfolio.com, p. 10–11/no. 1; p. 19/no. 6
and Eiriksstadir & Leifssafn; p. 17/5; p. 19/7
field and offers both traditional and offbeat experiences with Viking feasts, Total print run: 75,000 copies
elf-spotting tours, whale watching and horseback riding. © Icelandic Tourist Board
6 7
 “Reykjavik is a hip European capital
Non-stop Fun Under the Midnight Sun known for its dimly lit coffeehouses,
Dining and entertainment in the capital and beyond live music and nightlife.”
National Geographic

Appetite for Freshness forming after midnight and the party lasts until sunup on
There is simply no more important ingredient than location. weekends. A benefit of a compact city center is that most bars
Therein lies the strength and uniqueness of Icelandic cuisine. & nightspots are in walking distance of one another. Late night,
Sheep roam the open countryside all summer long, feeding on particularly in the summer, the downtown area takes on a
wild berries and moss. This free-range flavor comes through in carnival-like atmosphere. For the Icelanders, especially in the
succulent Icelandic lamb, praised by chefs all over the world. perpetual daylight of summer, the night is always young.
Fish doesn’t get any fresher than it does from the icy cold waters
of Iceland, especially local favorites like halibut and monkfish.
Chefs throughout Iceland use organic vegetables and herbs
which are grown in the countryside in geothermally heated
greenhouses. Iceland’s dairy products are becoming famous for
their wholesome flavor, especially the yogurt-like skyr, now a big
seller in Whole Foods stores in the US.

In the past few years Iceland has emerged as one of Europe’s

most dynamic gastronomic destinations, full of exciting places
to taste thrilling new recipes. Chefs create modern dishes with
traditional ingredients, like French influenced lobster ravioli with
a delicate lobster foam, or fusion courses like Indian inspired
monkfish in tandoori essence.

Street eats are a must for visitors, especially Iceland’s favorite

snack, the pylsu - or hot dog. Say, “Eina med ollu”, when
ordering and you’ll get a hot dog boldly topped with the works: “While Iceland’s musicians Bjork and Sigur Ros
crunchy fried onions, ketchup, sweet mustard, raw onions and are arguably the nation’s most famous cultural
curry remoulade sauce. Hot diggity! exports, this country of about 300,000 people
has a healthy art scene.”
Cool Hunters
Reykjavik is growing rapidly into a weekend getaway destination The New York Times
known for its energetic nightlife and party atmosphere. With the
ever changing selection of sleek wine bars, old-world cafes, live
music venues and fashionable nightclubs there’s a place with 1 Friday night lights
your name on it – whatever your taste. 2 When cold turns cool
3 Gay pride parade
The sun never sets on fun in Iceland whether it is during the 4 Austurvollur square
6 long days of summer or peak winter hours. In the evening, the 5 Imagine Peace Tower 7
downtown area teems with activity, reaching its peak on Friday 6 Northern hospitality
and Saturday nights. Lines for the most popular places begin 7 ‘Tis the season
4

1 2 3 5 6 7
“It’s an unearthly paradise in Iceland.”
NY Daily News
 Hurry Up and Slow Down
You can interact with Iceland’s world of natural wonders in
endless ways. Some activities offer you the challenge of the
mightiest forces in nature, while other experiences provide the
ideal way to relax from all the activity.
Look North
Thrill seekers in search of a real challenge will not be
disappointed in Iceland. Glacial river rafting, ice cave
spelunking, wild shore kayaking and deep sea fishing are
just the tip of the iceberg
10 Glaciers cover 1/9th of Iceland’s land surface. Snowmobiling is
an exhilarating way for almost anyone to experience them. Tours
are available where travelers make the ascent by bus and belt-
2 3
driven vehicle and then have time to zip around at leisure facilities offer sauna, steam rooms, massage therapy 1 Global hot spot
on snowmobiles which are surprisingly easy to maneuver. and other spa treatments. 2 Gullfoss, Golden Falls
3 Into the wild
Go-it-alone types can also test themselves against nature. Outdoor hot springs are hidden throughout the 4 Under the rainbow
Cycling around Iceland is a genuine challenge, attracting a countryside and are the ultimate interaction with 5 The Blue Lagoon
growing number of contenders. And really vigorous mountain Iceland’s raw nature and a highlight of any trip. The 6 See me May through September
hiking trails fan out in all directions from the outskirts of most famous outdoor spa is the Blue Lagoon located 7 Go speed racers!
almost every community. near Keflavik Airport. The therapeutic, milky blue,
mineral-rich waters are ideal for relieving jet lag when
Indulgent Escapes arriving or for a last dip before the transatlantic flight
Need a break from the dining & nightlife? Take a dip in home. Lake Myvatn Nature Baths in the north offer
one of Iceland’s hundreds of outdoor swimming pools, bathers a completely natural experience in an area of Want to know more? 11
geothermally heated of course! Soak away the day’s stresses fragile beauty. www.IcelandTouristBoard.com
by relaxing in a hot pot while chatting with the locals. Many Call us: 212 885 9700
4 5 6 7
 Sightseeing Spectaculars
Mother Nature is still hard at work in Iceland, one of the newest
places on EarthThe fruits of her labor are easy to spot through-
out the country, from the desolate highland interior to the
Hveragerdi hot springs only a half-hour drive from Reykjavik.
Glaciers grow, shrink and change every year, while incredible
bird life paints the landscape. The wide open spaces, the green
valleys and moss-covered lava fields, deep fjords and high cliffs
all make Iceland’s nature picture perfect.
The Scenic Route
The Golden Circle is the name given to a 190 mile (300 kilometer)
circular route which encompasses many of Iceland’s most famous
landmarks. It is the most popular introduction to Iceland’s natural
beauty. The major stops on the circle are the stunning Gullfoss,
the most powerful waterfall in Europe, and the geyser geother-
mal area where the reliable “Strokkur” spews hot water into the
air every few minutes. This area is also the residence of the great
Geysir which is not as active, but gave all other geysers their
name. Thingvellir National Park is the site of Iceland’s first parlia-
ment and a place where the North American and European
tectonic plates are splitting apart in a very breathtaking way.
Hot Spots
There are 15 active volcanoes in Iceland. The heavy volcanic
activity during the last few thousand years accounts for Iceland’s
extraordinary land formations and geology. In the north of the
country, bubbling mud flats, volcanic craters, newborn lava
fields, and grassy areas teeming with waterfowl are among the
sights of the striking Lake Myvatn region, one of the most
geologically active and stunningly beautiful areas in Iceland.
Dimmuborgir, on the East side of the lake, is a badlands of lava
pillars, many reaching 65 feet in height. Some of the most
visually bizarre attractions in the region are the mud pits of
Haverarond, which are so hot that they actually boil. Far cooler
are the waters of Viti, an explosion crater nearby. Another
12 unforgettable sight near Myvatn is Eldhraun (“fire lava”), a
rugged lava field where the Apollo 11 crew came in the late
1960s to train for their impending moonwalks.
1 2
Postcards from the edge
Hidden Treasures
Two gems on the southern rim of Iceland’s highlands are among
the nation’s most popular summer spots. Thorsmork is a hikers’
paradise with delicate trees and grass nestling among
mountains and glaciers. Landmannalaugar is a hotbed of
geothermal activity, famed for its hot springs where travelers can
bathe, and for the wild colors of its landscape.
Another treasure bordering the southern interior is the
Lakagigar crater series, which produced the largest lava flow
ever witnessed in the world, during the volcanic eruptions of
1783.
It’s Your Journey
West Iceland is a showcase of lava formations, geothermal
activity and history. On Snaefellsnes peninsula, resides the
glittering glacial cap of Snaefellsjokull, which provided Jules
Verne with the setting for Journey to the Center of the Earth and
was depicted in the 2008 major motion picture of the same
name.
The Westfjords are typified by steep mountains rising from the
sea and deep fjords with quaint fishing villages. The
Hornstrandir nature reserve is not only breathtaking in its
rawness but also astonishingly rich in vegetation on the edge of
the inhabitable world.
East Iceland accounts for a large chunk of Iceland’s total area
with Egilsstadir as the regional center, on the banks of Lagarfljot
river where cruises are offered. Nearby Hallormsstadaskogur has
an impressive forest, beyond where lies the natural habitat of
Iceland’s reindeer population.
The port of Hofn on the southeast corner of Iceland offers
exciting trips to the Vatnajoull glacier as well as whale watching
cruises. Other must-see sites in the area include the Jokulsarlon
glacial lagoon, renowned for its iceberg cruises, and Skaftafell
“There’s a warmth in this northern
National Park, where green woodlands and black mountains outpost that wraps you in its arms.” 13
touch the sheer white glacier in the shadow of the country’s
highest peak, Hvannadalshnukur (6,950 ft).
The Toronto Star
4
1 Northern gold
2 The lords of ice town
3 Geothermal hot spring
4 Your great Icelandic adventure
5 Aurora Borealis
6 Eastern Iceland
Want to know more?
www.IcelandTouristBoard.com
Call us: 212 885 9700
3 5 6
“As you bask in the midnight sun and marvel
at how it just skirts the horizon in a blaze
of orange glory, you realize this place really
has a way of working itself into your blood.”
The Toronto Star
 The Great Outdoors
Iceland is a country where you can see and do things you
can’t elsewhere – in winter or summer. Whether it’s due
to the imposing geography or the Viking heritage, Icelanders
enjoy being active and outdoors especially attractions with
an edge. Experiencing them is easy with many of the activities
taking place in Reykjavik or within a one hour drive from the
capital.
Bicycling: Bikes can be rented in Reykjavik and in various
places around Iceland.
16 Golf: Iceland has over 50 golf courses, with dramatic
landscaping you won’t see anywhere else. Enjoy midnight
golf in summer!
2 3
Hiking: Take day or weekend tours during winter and longer Sea Kayaking: Lucky kayakers might also get a close-up glimpse of 1 Hands-on nature
tours in summer, across lava, glaciers, lakes and sand. a seal or rare birdlife. 2 Glacial off-roading
3 Central highlands
Horseback Riding: Small and gentle, with great stamina, Skiing: Popular during winter, especially near Akureyri. 4 The Great Geysir
speed and intelligence, the pure bred Icelandic horse is the 5 Viking raiders
perfect riding companion for both beginners and experienced Sport Fishing: Buy your permits in advance to fish for salmon or trout 6 Surreal scenery
riders. in Iceland’s clear lakes and waters. 7 You’ll fall for Iceland
Marathon: Try the Reykjavik marathon in August or the Bird Watching: Iceland is a paradise for birdwatchers across the country,
Laugavegur Ultra Marathon for real adrenalin junkies. including Latrabjarg in the Westfjords, the largest bird cliff in the world as
well as the world’s largest puffin colony located in the Westmann Islands.
River Rafting: Your choice of routes for different levels of Want to know more? 17
challenge. Whale Watching: Success rates of seeing the world’s largest mammals www.IcelandTouristBoard.com
in their natural habitat are much greater than 95 percent. Call us: 212 885 9700
4 5 6 7

If you want to break from the crowd, setting your own pace on a
visit to Iceland couldn’t be easier.
Hit the Ring Road
Rent a car and head out on the open road. The 900-mile “Ring
Road” circles the island, and you can stop when you want to see
the sights on the fjords and peninsulas that branch out all over
the country. It is possible to rent four wheel drive vehicles, but
do not venture alone into isolated places where you may face
the risk of having to cross unbridged rivers.
18 In summer, you can journey into the uninhabited interior of the
country on 4WD vehicle. The black sands of Sprengisandur is
the central route between north and south. With only rough
2 3
Explore Your Inner Viking
Choose Your Adventure
tracks and unbridged rivers, it is a good idea to undertake the “hot pot” by your summerhouse or campsite, Iceland has “There is no getting around the physical
route in convoy. The route threads its way between glaciers to accommodation to suit all tastes and budgets. While you intensity of Iceland.”
come out southeast of Akureyri in the north. can find places to stay year-round, it is a good idea to book
ahead during the busy summer months. If you’re traveling The Boston Globe
But remember: It’s sometimes a short step between feeling as a family, don’t forget to ask about children’s discounts,
free and feeling lost. Hikers, glacier explorers and interior which are often available.
wanderers should always notify someone of their plans when
heading out into the wilds. And off road driving is strictly 1 Some like it cold
prohibited: sub-Arctic vegetation is sensitive and surface 2 Dyrholaey Cliffs
damage from tires can take decades to heal. 3 Viking brood
4 Viking breed
Sleep On It 5 Satisfy your wanderlust Want to know more? 19
Whether it’s sleeping between the finest linen sheets in a 6 Wild iris www.IcelandTouristBoard.com
four-star hotel or watching the northern lights from an outdoor 7 Eiriksstadir, home of Leif Eriksson Call us: 212 885 9700
4 5 6 7
 Think of a City
Remove Then add
- crowds + wellness
- traffic + nature
- noise + inspiration
- pollution + fun
- stress + intimacy
- pressure + space

Rise to the Occasion Reykjavík Pure Energy

ÍSLENSK A AUGLÝSINGASTOFA N/SIA.IS HBS 42873 08/2006

Whatever the time of year you’re in Iceland, there’ll be something going on of interest.
Sometimes it’s a familiar festivity in a distinctive Icelandic setting, and sometimes it’s a charming
local custom that will grab your imagination. Here are a few to look forward to in 2009:

Thorrablot (January 23 to February 22): An ancient Viking mid-
winter tradition of feasting on traditional foods like boiled sheep
head and rotten shark meat as well as more edible goodies. Live
like a Viking just once a year.
Lent (February 23–25): Fill up with cream buns on Monday and
salted meat and peas on Tuesday. Then watch children dress up
in the streets on Wednesday.
Food and Fun (February 25-March 1): International chefs create
incredible menus at Reykjavik’s best restaurant. Book well in
advance. See www.foodandfun.is.
Easter (April 9–12): Huge chocolate eggs, smoked lamb and a
time for families to relax together.
First Day of Summer (April 23): In Iceland, this holiday falls in
20 April with colorful parades and street entertainment.
Summer Solstice (June 21): Gatherings celebrate the magic
of the midnight sun on the longest day of the year.
August Long Weekend (August 1–3): Almost everyone heads
to the countryside to camp or attend music festivals around the
country, the biggest of which is on the Westman Islands.
Gay Pride (August 6–9): Gays and lesbians come out in force
and style to parade and party in Reykjavik.
Culture Night (August 22): The day begins with the Reykjavik
Marathon, followed by artistic events which are held in the
streets and at cafés throughout the day. The day culminates
in a massive fireworks display.
Sheep Round-Up (September): Farmers herd the sheep they
have rounded up from summer grazing in the wilds. A fun and
merry occasion.

Reykjavik Arts Festival (May 15-30): A varied program of
cultural events and concerts with leading Icelandic and
international artists. See www.artfest.is
Festival of the Sea (June 6–7): This festival honors those who
make their living from the sea. There are parades, arts and
crafts activities and cultural events in towns throughout the
country.
National Day (June 17): Iceland takes on a mardi-gras like
atmosphere with parades and street fairs as Icelanders celebrate
their full independence from Denmark (which occurred in 1944).
Iceland Airwaves (October 15–19): This alternative music festival
gets bigger and better every year, attracting bands and fans
from around the world. Check www.icelandairwaves.com.
Christmas Season (December): Icelanders love Christmas. The
streets and homes are decorated in bright lights and Christmas
buffets at restaurants offer delicacies like smoked lamb and
ptarmigan.
New Year’s Eve (December 31): The New Year is celebrated with
a bang, with the biggest fireworks display you’ll probably ever
see. There are public bonfires and the merrymaking lasts right
through to the following year.
www.visitreykjavik.is
www.visitreykjavik.is
Reykjavík is a feel good city where inhabitants and visitors Bring your family to Reykjavík to enjoy the exciting
alike enjoy the everyday quality of life in a safe atmosphere and the pure energy at the heart of Iceland´s
environment. Experience the proximity to nature, variety capital. Visit Reykjavík.
of museums, great restaurants, lively events and activities
as well as the splendid thermal pools - or simply enjoy
being there.

Visit Reykjavík - Adalstraeti 2 - 101 Reykjavík - Iceland - Tel. +354 590 1500 - Fax 590 1501 www.visitreykjavik.is - info@visitreykjavik.is

The Cultivated Shopper
Strolling down the main shopping street, Laugarvegur, in
Reykjavik can sometimes feel like you’re on one long catwalk of
tres chic boutiques. Allow yourself to be tempted on one of the
oldest thoroughfares in the city, or at modern indoor shopping
areas like Kringlan in Reykjavik and Smaralind in Kopavogur.
The shopping secret is out on the latest daytime diversion in
downtown Reykjavik which is celebrated for its sophisticated &
radical style scene. Shoppers agree on a number of must-see
Reykjavik shops including Kisan with its ultra sumptuous hand-
knit sweaters and unique home goods, and the fashion forward
KronKron located in a loft-like boutique filled with bold prints
22 and patterns. Trilogia is named as having one of the city’s
strongest mixes of Icelandic and international collections, selling
work by recent fashion graduates alongside big brand
heavyweights. The store also displays emerging artists’ work in a
growing trend in Icelandic stores which are part boutique, part
art gallery.
Shopoholics get their fix during the months of January and July
when store owners change out their merchandise and drastically
reduce prices. Everything from traditional Icelandic souvenirs to
designer clothing are yours with one magic word, utsala – it
means sales!
Another serious power shopper’s secret is that designer labels
like Hugo Boss and Max Mara are typically 10 to 35 percent less
WE’LL
DAY TOURS FROM REYKJAVÍK
Every day from the BSÍ bus terminal, day tours in
and around Reykjavík. Blue Lagoon, Gullfoss, Geysir,
Þingvellir, Borgarfjörður, Snæfellsnes and other
TAKE YOU
destinations.
FLYBUS
Regular service to and from the Leifur Eiríksson
Airport Terminal at Keflavík International Airport.
THERE!
SCHEDULED SERVICES
ACROSS THE REYKJANES
PENINSULA
Scheduled coach services covering the entire
Reykjanes peninsula.
ALL THE MOST EXCITING PLACES IN ICELAND
HOP ON – HOP OFF
Entertaining and informative tours around
Reykjavík aboard a double-decker bus.
ICELAND ON YOUR OWN
Tours to sites of geological and natural interest
all around Iceland. Bus Passports available.
COACH RENTALS
Coaches of all sizes - from 8 to 70 seats.
ÞÓRSMÖRK/HÚSADALUR
Daily departures (15 June – 14 September).
Group bookings available.
CORPORATE SOLUTIONS
Reykjavik Excursions commercial contracts.
:MED™lll#Zmed#^h
GALLERY KYNNISFERÐIR
Icelandic designs – jewellery, clothing and gift
items. Hilton Reykjavik Nordica Hotel, Icelandair
Hótel Loftleiðir and Radisson Sas Saga Hotel.
BOOK YOUR DAY TOURS ON
OUR WEBSITE / www.re.is
BSI Bus Terminal / 101 Reykjavík / Phone: +354 562-1011 / main@re.is / www.re.is
expensive in Iceland than in Europe and the US. The 15 percent
tax-free refund for tourists on a minimum purchase of 5000 ISK
adds to the shopping nirvana. Alongside these famous fashion
brands dwell a highly creative and artistic collection of Icelandic
designers, who add new dimensions to the image of fashion.
Jewelry inspired by the country’s nature and pagan history are
often made from lava stones or other local minerals and can be
specially designed for you.
Of course you won’t want to forget to bring home some
traditional Icelandic souvenirs. Hand-knitted Icelandic woolens,
sheepskin outerwear, lava-laced pottery, Viking inspired novelty
gifts, stunning photographic books, music and artwork from
local artists are available in shops throughout the country and in
the duty free stores of Leif Eriksson International Airport in
Keflavik. “In a nod to the country’s creativity, many of the shops
near Laugarvegur are part boutique, part art gallery.”
“Reykjavik has a thriving fashion scene.”
The Wall Street Journal

Frequently Asked Questions
Where is it?
Iceland is a European island midway between North America
and the continent of Europe. It’s the same distance from
New York to Iceland as from New York to Los Angeles.
How do I get there?
Icelandair flies from six different US gateways, many on a
daily basis (see the “Yellow Pages” section of the brochure
for details). All fights connect at Iceland’s Keflavik International
Airport with flights to other popular destinations on the
European continent. Many people discover Iceland by taking
advantage of “stop-over” opportunities while on their way
to or from somewhere else.
How big is Iceland?
It’s about the size of Kentucky. Iceland has almost 300,000
people, most of whom live in coastal areas.
H V Í TA H Ú S I Ð / S Í A – 0 8 - 1 2 5 0
How should I dress? Energy for life through forces of nature
Dress much the way you would in New York City in the fall,
Blue Lagoon is open daily year round.
winter and spring. In summer, carry a light jacket. In the Ideally located, only 20 minutes from Keflavík International Airport and 45 minutes from Reykjavík
countryside, wear sneakers or hiking shoes. The weather can
be extremely changeable. And always bring a bathing suit. www.bluelagoon.com
Icelanders’ favorite pastime is year-round outdoor swimming
in the countless geothermally heated pools and lagoons,
which are as warm as bathwater.
How are accommodations and food?
World-class! Iceland’s hotels and guesthouses are almost
invariably clean and comfortable, and often come with
additional amenities like access to wireless internet.
Homegrown seafood and lamb dishes are popular and
available anywhere. In the more populated areas,
international cuisine, vegetarian and American fast
food are all easy to find.

How cold does it get? What kind of money is used in Iceland?

Actually, thanks to the Gulf Stream, Iceland maintains
surprisingly moderate temperatures year-round. It seldom
24 reaches 75°F (24°C) in the summer. And during winter,
Iceland’s capital of Reykjavik never reaches the low
temperatures experienced by New York and Ottawa.
The currency used in Iceland is the krona, plural kronur (ISK).
Money can be easily exchanged at the airport, banks and
currency exchanges. Visa, MasterCard, and Cirrus use is
pervasive throughout Iceland. ATMs are generally not
hard to find.
Travel is more than just A to B. Travel should open new doors for you.
Step into a world of excitement. The Hilton Reykjavik Nordica welcomes you to stylish rooms, the trendy VOX
Restaurant and the city’s most exclusive health club NordicaSpa, all just a step away from city center.

Do Icelanders speak English? What about the electricity?

The official language of Iceland is Icelandic, but most
Icelanders speak fluent English. In fact, they welcome the
opportunity, so don’t be shy about approaching an Icelander.
Are daylight hours normal?
Well, for this part of the world, they are. In summer, you
won’t see much darkness. In mid-winter, expect only four
to five hours a day of daylight. Spring and fall daylight hours
are roughly the same as in North America.
Icelandic electrical standards are European (50Hz, 240 volts),
so many North American electrical devices will require
To start your journey, travel to hilton.com
converters and all will require plug adapters.
Hilton Reykjavik Nordica, Sudurlandsbraut 2, 108 Reykjavik, Iceland,
Got another question? Tel: +354 444 5000, Fax: +354 444 5001, E-mail: info.reykjaviknordica@hilton.com
Visit www.icelandtouristboard.com for more information.
 Guide to Hotels and Guesthouses ICELANDIC
The following pages contain information about accommodation in Iceland. Entries include a map on page 40. ICELAND
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Hotel Borg
Pósthússtræti 11 and Cottages - Fishing, horse riding, golf,
Keahotels
101 Reykjavík
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Tel: (+354) 551 1440
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Brautarholt 22-24
Borgartun 34 • IS-105 Reykjavik (B4) with us all the best of 105 Reykjavík 'WVghVcY]diZaXVgeVg`#
Central Booking Office: what our country has to Tel: (+354) 511 3777
Sidumuli 2 • IS-108 Reykjavik Tel.: +354-511-1500 • Fax: +354-511-1511 offer. Our six hotels are Fax: (+354) 511 3776
'RAND(ØTEL2EYKJAVÓK
in key locations, bjork@keahotels.is 3IGTÞN2EYKJAVÓKTEL 
Tel.: +354-570-2700 • Fax: +354-570-2799 E-mail: gjtravel@gjtravel.is • www.gjtravel.is www.keahotels.is
granting you a full
CenterHotels E-mail: ifh@farmholidays.is access to the most Hotel Kea
We offer various travel services such as:
attractive places in Hafnarstræti 87-89
Self drive tours - Group tours - Day tours - =‹iZaGZn`_Vk†`
Skjaldbreid, Klopp, Thingholt, Arnarhvoll and www.farmholidays.is 600 Akureyri
Accommodation outside Reykjavik Iceland. Situated in
Reykjavík, Akureyri and Tel: (+354) 460 2000 Activities ... 8db[dgiVWaZVcYlZaXdb^c\(]diZacZVgi]Z
Plaza. 340 rooms in 5 first-class hotels in the XZcigZ#,.gddbh!gZhiVjgVciWVg#
Keahotels Iceland by Lake Mývatn,
Fax: (+354) 460 2060
kea@keahotels.is
heart of Reykjavik’s city centre Keahotels are joined in a www.keahotels.is
Six hotels in key locations. Hotel Borg & Hotel mutual booking system,
Central Booking Office:
Bjork in Reykjavik city, Hotel Kea, Hotel Harpa providing our clients Hotel Harpa
Hafnarstræti 83-85 (ØTEL2EYKJAVÓK
Laugavegur 16 • IS-101 Reykjavik (B4) with professional and 600 Akureyri
2AU¡ARÉRSTÓGUR
& Hotel Nordurland in Akureyri and Hotel
Tel.: +354-595-8500 • Fax: +354-595-8511 Hotel Keflavik ★★★★ efficient service. Tel: (+354) 460 2000 2EYKJAVÓK
Gigur by Lake Myvatn Fax: (+354) 460 2060
E-mail: reservations@centerhotels.is Vatnsnesvegur 12 • IS-230 Keflavik (B4) Ranging from two up to
harpa@keahotels.is TEL 
www.keahotels.is
Head office:
www.centerhotels.is Tel.: +354-420-7000 • Fax: +354-420-7002 four stars, our hotels are
Tel.: +354-460-2050 • Fax: +354-460-2070 all fully equipped with Hotel Norðurland
E-mail: stay@kef.is • www.kef.is hospitality and Geislagata 7 =‹iZaGZn`_Vk†`8Zcigjb
Fosshotel Iceland E-mail: keahotels@keahotels.is 600 Akureyri
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A chain of friendly tourist-class hotels all www.keahotels.is Hotel Borgarnes ★★★
friendliness.
Tel: (+354) 462 2600
Fax: (+354) 462 2601
Let us book your holiday! d[i]ZX^in#-.gddbh!'Xdc[ZgZcXZgddbh!
Egilsgata 12-16 • IS-310 Borgarnes (B4) nordurland@keahotels.is ;_VaV`Žiijg^ccgZhiVjgVciJeehVa^gW^higdWVg#
around Iceland Akureyri
www.keahotels.is
www.farmholidays.is
Mývatn

Central Booking Office: Tel.: +354-437-1119 • Fax: +354-437-1443 (ØTEL2EYKJAVÓK

Tel.: +354-562-4000 • Fax: +354-562-4001
E-mail: sales@fosshotels.com
www.fosshotels.com
Inns of Iceland
Affordable accommodation in the centre of
Reykjavik and Icelandic countryside
Central Booking Office:
Tel.: +354-562-4000 • Fax: +354-562-4001
E-mail: info@innsoficeland.com
www.innsoficeland.com
Hotel Edda
13 hotels around Iceland
Tel.: +354-444-4000 • Fax: +354-444-4001
E-mail: edda@hoteledda.is
www.hoteledda.is
26 Hotel Odinsve ★★★★
and Luna Hotel Apartments
Hotel Odinsve is a family-owned 4-star hotel,
located in a quiet residential area in downtown
Reykjavik
Thorsgata 1 • IS-101 Reykjavik
Tel.: +354-511-6200 • Fax: +354-511-6201
E-mail: odinsve@hotelodinsve.is
www.odinsve.is • www.luna.is
Icelandair Hotels
6 hotels around Iceland
Tel.: +354-444-4000 • Fax: +354-444-4001
E-mail: icehotels@icehotels.is
www.icehotels.is
Hotel Gígur
Reykjavík Travel Agency
E-mail: hotelbo@centrum.is Skútustaðir
660 Mývatn
#ENTRUM
Park Inn Island ★★★ www.hotelborgarnes.is
!¡ALSTRTI
Headoffice: Hafnarstræti 94, 600 Akureyri
Tel: (+354) 460 2050 · Fax: (+354) 460 2070
Tel: (+354) 464 4455
Fax: (+354) 464 4279
Authorised by
Icelandic Tourist Board 2EYKJAVÓK
Armuli 9 • IS-108 Reykjavik (B4) E-mail: keahotels@keahotels.is gigur@keahotels.is TEL 
www.keahotels.is www.keahotels.is Síðumúli 2 · 108 Reykjavík · Tel. (+354) 570 2700
Tel.: +354-595-7000 • Fax: +354-595-7001 Fax. (+354) 570 2799 · E-mail: ifh@farmholidays.is
E-mail: sales.reykjavik@rezidorparkinn.com
www.parkinn.is Hotel Budir
IS-356 Snaefellsbaer (A3)
Tel.: +354-435-6700 • Fax: +354-435-6701
E-mail: budir@budir.is • www.budir.is
Radisson SAS Saga Hotel ★★★★
Hagatorg • IS-107 Reykjavik (B4)
Tel.: +354-525-9900 • Fax: +354-525-9909
E-mail: sales.saga.reykjavik@radissonsas.com
www.radissonsas.is Hotel Stykkisholmur (B3)
Borgarbraut 8 • IS-340 Stykkisholmur
Tel.: +354-430-2100 Fax: +354-430-2101
E-mail: hotelstykkisholmur@simnet.is
www.hotelstykkisholmur.is
Reykjavik Hotels
Sigtun 38 • IS-105 Reykjavik
Tel.: +354-514-8000 • Fax: +354-514-8030
www.reykjavikhotels.is Hotel Varmahlid
Viator Summerhouses IS-560 Varmahlid (D2)
Sudurlandsbraut 6 • IS-108 Reykjavik Tel.: +354-453-8170 • Fax: +354-453-8870
Tel.: +354-544-8990 • Fax: +354-565-0661 E-mail: info@hotelvarmahlid.is
E-mail: info@viator.is • www.viator.is www.hotelvarmahlid.is
Hotels in Reykjavik
Country Hotel Arnanes
Hilton Reykjavik Nordica ★★★★
IS-781 Hofn (F4)
Sudurlandsbraut 2 • IS-108 Reykjavik
Tel.: +354-478-1550 • Fax: +354-478-1819
Tel.: +354-444-5000 • Fax: +354-444-2001
E-mail: arnanes@arnanes.is • www.arnanes.is
E-mail: info.reykjaviknordica@hilton.com
www.reykjavik.nordica.hilton.com
 Zoom Vacations The Great Canadian Travel Company Luxury Guides Icelandair Holidays

General Information Phone: 1866-966-6822

E-mail: joel@zoomvacations.com

Tour Operators ................................. 28 Icelandamerica.com
Fast Facts on Iceland ....................... 30 icelandamerica@icelandamerica.com
Travel Facts ....................................... 30 Insight Vacations
General Information......................... 32 Phone: 1-888-680-1241
Tourist Information........................... 34 contactus@insightvacations.com
Tours ................................................. 34 Jalpak
Activities............................................ 36 Phone: 1800-343-7173
Transportation ................................. 37 E-mail: kosawa@jalpak.com
Accommodation .............................. 39 Jensen World Travel
Phone: 1-800-853-6736
Website: www.jensenworldtravel.com
Tour Operators 2008 LT Travel, Inc.
Phone: 1-800-711-7242
E-mail: Lina@LinaTravel.com
Need more information? Luxury Guides
Check out these Web addresses
Phone: 1-800-826-5614, 206-306-9099
Icelandic Tourist Board – North
E-mail: jaystern@luxuryguides.com
America
Nordic Saga Tours
www.icelandtouristboard.com
Phone: 1-800-848-6449
Icelandic Tourist Board – Iceland E-mail: NSTours@nordicsaga.com
www.visiticeland.com Orient Line Cruises
Icelandair Phone – 1-800-333-7300
www.icelandair.com E-mail: info@orientlines.com
Iceland Naturally Pearls of Scandinavia
www.icelandnaturally.com Phone: 1-231-946-2242
E-mail: pearls@traverse.com
Embassy of Iceland, Washington
Points North Inc. (Canada)
www.iceland.org
Phone: 1-204-949-3023
E-mail: icelandair@gctc-mst.com
Reykjavik Weekends
Welcome to Iceland Website: www.reykjaviktours.com
E-mail: info@icelandsagatravel.com
www.visitreykjavik.is ScanAm World Tours, Inc.
www.bluelagoon.is
Phone: 1-800-545-2004
www.bestoficeland.com
E-mail: info@scanamtours.com
www.spacity.is Scantours Inc
Scandinavian Tourist Boards Phone: 1-800-223-7226
www.goscandinavia.com E-mail: info@scantours.com
European Travel Commission Scandiaworld
www.visiteurope.com Phone: 1-800-722-8091
E-mail: info@scandiatravel.com
TMB Travel / Protravel Int
Tour Operators for Phone: 1-212-702-2648
E-mail: thorunn@protravelinc.com
Iceland in North America: The Great Canadian Travel Company
Ltd. (Canada)
Independent Travel/ Phone: 1-204-949-0199
E-mail: sales@gctc-mst.com
City Breaks
The Nordic Company
Borton Overseas
Phone: 1-888-806-7226
Phone: 1-800-843-0602
E-mail: info@nordicco.com
E-mail: info@bortonoverseas.com
Travelocity
Brekke Tours/Scandinavia
www.travelocity.com/scandinavia
Phone: 1-800-437-5302
Vacations To Go.com
E-mail: tours@brekketours.com
Phone: 1-800-680-2858
Continental Journeys
contactrvtg@vacationstogo.com
Phone: 1-800-601-4343
28 E-mail: info@continentaljourneys.com
Virtuoso
Phone: 1-866-401-7974
DER
E-mail: travel@virtuoso.com
Phone: 503-295-1100 x4489
tmongin@avantidestinations.com
Europe Express
Groups/Escorted/
Phone – 1-800 927 3876 Educational
E-mail: uniquely@europeexpress.com AAA SignaTours
Five Stars of Scandinavia Phone: 1-813-289-5000
Phone: 1-800-722-4126 E-mail: jsoto@aaasouth.com
E-mail: info@5stars-of-scandinavia.com American Council Internationsl
H.I.S. Tours Studies – ACIS
Phone: 1800-275-4447 Phone: 1-800-888-ACIS
E-mail: kiyoko@his-usa.com Website: www.acis.com
Horses North, LLC AdventureWomen, Inc.
Phone: 1-888-686-6784 Phone: 1-800-804-8686
E-mail: horsesnorth@taconic.net
E-mail: advwomen@aol.com
Iceland Saga Travel, LLC Borton Overseas
Phone: 1-866-423-7242 Phone: 1-800-843-0602
E-mail: info@icelandsagatravel.com E-mail: info@bortonoverseas.com
Icelandair Holidays Brekke Tours/Scandinavia
Phone: 1-800-779-2899 Phone: 1-800-437-5302
E-mail: holidays@icelandair.is E-mail: tours@brekketours.com
Brendan Worldwide Vacations
Phone: 1-800-421-8446
E-mail: info@brendantours.com
Canyon Calling Tours
Phone: 1-928-282-0916
E-mail: funtrips@canyoncalling.com
Collette Vacations
Phone: 1-800-340-5158
reservations@collettevacations.com
Continental Journeys
Phone: 1-800-601-4343
E-mail: info@continentaljourneys.com
CSAA – Sojourns
Phone: 1-888-299-7515
Website: www.aaa.com/travel
Escorted Europe with Icelandair
Phone: 1-800-466-6990
E-mail: info@escortedeurope.com
Five Stars of Scandinavia
Phone: 1-800-722-4126
E-mail: info@5stars-of-scandinavia.com
Globus & Cosmos
Phone: 1-866-755-8581
mloiseau@globusandcosmos.com
Grand Circle Travel
Phone: 1-800-959-0405
E-mail: online@gct.com
Holbrook
Phone: 1-800-451-7111
E-mail: travel@holbrooktravel.com
High Country Passage
Phone: 1-800-395-3288
E-mail: info@hcptravel.com
Holiday Vacations
Phone: 1-800-826-2266
E-mail: holidayvacations.net
Horizon Holidays
Phone: 1-416-585-9911
E-mail: admin@horizon-holidays.com
Iceland Saga Travel, LLC
Phone: 1-866-423-7242
E-mail: info@icelandsagatravel.com
Icelandair Holidays
Phone: 1-800-779-2899
E-mail: holidays@icelandair.is
Insight Vacations
Phone: 1-800 583-8380
contactus@insightvacations.com
ITS Tours & Travel
Phone: 1-800-533-8688
E-mail: its-tour@tca.net
LT Travel, Inc.
Phone: 1-800-711-7242
E-mail: Lina@LinaTravel.com
Luxury Guides
Phone: 1-800-826-5614
E-mail: jaystern@luxuryguides.com
MWT Associates
Phone: 1-877-707-7827
E-mail: tours@melitatrips.com
Nordic Saga Tours
Phone: 1-800-848-6449
E-mail: NSTours@nordicsaga.com
Odysseys Unlimted
Phone: 1-888-370-6765
E-mail: corp@odysseys-unlimited.com
Paragon Tours
Phone: 1-800-999-5050
www.paragontours.com
Pearls of Scandinavia
Phone: 1-231-946-2242
E-mail: pearls@traverse.com
Photo Adventure Tours
Phone: 1-516-371-0067
photoadventuretours@yahoo.com
Points North, Inc. (Canada)
Phone: 1-204-949-3023
E-mail: icelandair@gctc-mst.com
REI Adventures
Phone 1-800-622-2236
E-mail: travel@rei.com
RMC’s Body Mind Spirit Journeys
Phone: 1-800-231-9811
E-mail: bmsjourneys@aol.com
ScanAm World Tours, Inc.
Phone: 1-800-545-2004
E-mail: info@scanamtours.com
Scantours Inc
Phone: 1-800-223-7226
E-mail: info@scantours.com
Southern Treks Adventure Travel
Phone: 1-888-768-7357
E-mail: sotreks@aol.com
Storyfest Icelandic Journeys
Phone: 1-301-791-9153
E-mail: storyfest@mac.com
The Great Canadian Travel Company,
Ltd. (Canada)
Phone: 1-204-949-0199
E-mail: sales@gctc-mst.com
The Nordic Company
Phone: 1-888-806-7226
E-mail: info@nordicco.com
The Walking Connection
Phone: 1-602-978-1887
E-mail: info@walkingconnection.com
TMB Travel / Protravel Int
Phone: 1-212-702-2648
E-mail: thorunn@protravelinc.com
Travel & Play with Icelandair
Phone: 1-800-824-8347
E-mail: icelandair@travelandplay.com
Tumlare Travel Organization
Phone: 1-800-954-6713
E-mail: josephgr@tumlare.com
Vantage Deluxe World Travel
Phone: 1-800-322-6677
webreservations@vantagetravel.com
VIP Tours
Phone 1877 782 9878
E-mail: steve@viptours.com
Wilderness Travel
Phone: 1-800-368-2794
Website: www.wildernesstravel.com
World Expeditions
Phone: 1-888-464-8735
contactus@worldexpeditions.net
World Stage Concerts & Tours
Phone: 1-732-634-3811
E-mail: WSConcerts@aol.com
Alternative Lifestyles
AAA SignaTours
Phone: 1-813-289-5000
E-mail: jsoto@aaasouth.com
Alyson Adventures
Phone: 1-800-825-9766
E-mail: info@AlysonAdventures.com
DavidTours
Phone: 1-949-723-0699
E-mail: info@DavidTours.com
Eurobound
Phone: 1-888-672-7476
E-mail: info@eurobound.com
Icelandair Holidays
Phone: 1-800-779-2899
E-mail: holidays@icelandair.is
Now Voyager
Phone: 1-800-255-6951
E-mail: ks@nowvoyager.com
Prideworld
Phone: 1-866-774-3336
E-mail: info@prideworldtravel.com
Storyfest Icelandic Journeys
Phone: 1-301-791-9153
E-mail: storyfest@mac.com
Biking/Hiking/
Snowmobiling
AAA SignaTours
Phone: 1-813-289-5000
E-mail: jsoto@aaasouth.com
Alyson Adventures
Phone: 1-800-825-9766
E-mail: info@AlysonAdventures.com
Butterfield and Robinson
Phone: 1-800-678-1147
www.butterfield.com
Canyon Calling Tours
Phone: 1-928-282-0916
E-mail: funtrips@canyoncalling.com
Freewheeling Adventures
Phone: Canada 902-857-3600
E-mail: adventure@freewheeling.ca
Horses North, LLC
Phone: 1-888-686-6784
E-mail: horsesnorth@taconic.net
Icelandair Holidays
Phone: 1-800-779-2899
E-mail: holidays@icelandair.is
MIR International - USA, Inc.
Phone: 1-603-524-4255
E-mail: gek@cyberportal.net
Pack & Pedal Europe
Phone: 1-877-965-2064
E-mail: gea@tripsite.com
Bird Watching
Holbrook
Phone: 1-800-451-7111
E-mail: travel@holbrooktravel.com
Photo Adventure Tours
Phone: 1-516-371-0067
photoadventuretours@yahoo.com
Camping/Safaris/Walking/
Hiking
Adventure Center
Phone: 1-800-227-8747
E-mail : alan@adventurecenter.com
AdventureWomen, Inc.
Phone: 1-800-804-8686
E-mail: advwomen@aol.com
Alyson Adventures
Phone: 1-800-825-9766
E-mail: info@AlysonAdventures.com
Butterfield and Robinson
Phone: 1-800-678-1147
Borton Overseas
Phone: 1-800-843-0602
E-mail: info@bortonoverseas.com
Boundless Journeys
Phone: 1-800-941-8010
E-mail: info@boundlessjourneys.com
Country Walkers
Phone: 1-800-464-9255
E-mail: tricia@countrywalkers.com
ElderTreks
Phone: 1-800-741-7956
E-mail: info@eldertreks.com
Lindblad Expeditions
Phone: 1-800-762-0003
E-mail: info@expeditions.com
Mountain Travel Sobek
Phone: 1-800-282-8747
E-mail: info@mtsobek.com
Pack & Pedal Europe
Phone: 1-877-965-2064
E-mail: gea@tripsite.com
REI Adventures
Phone: 1-800-622-2236
E-mail: travel@rei.com
Southern Treks Adventure Travel
Phone: 1-888-768-7357
E-mail: sotreks@aol.com
Ltd. (Canada)
Phone: 1-204-949-0199
E-mail: sales@gctc-mst.com
The Walking Connection
Phone: 1-602-978-1887
E-mail: info@walkingconnection.com
Walking The World
Phone: 1-800-340-9255
E-mail: info@walkingtheworld.com
World Expeditions
Phone: 1-888-464-8735
E-mail: contactus@weadventures.com
Cruises – Iceland/
Scandinavia
Continental Journeys
Phone: 1-800-601-4343
E-mail: info@continentaljourneys.com
Hurtigruten
Phone: 1-800-582-0835
Website: www.hurtigruten.us
Lindblad Expeditions
Phone: 1-800-762-0003
E-mail: info@expeditions.com
Nordic Saga Tours
Phone: 1-800-848-6449
E-mail: NSTours@nordicsaga.com
Norwegian Coastal Voyage
Inc./Bergen Line Services
Phone: 1-800-323-7436
E-mail: info@coastalvoyage.com
Orient Lines
Phone: 1-800-333-7300
E-mail: info@orientlines.com
Oceania Cruises
Phone: 1-866-765-3630
Website: www.oceaniacruises.com
Princess Cruises
Phone: 1-800-774-6237
customerrelations@princesscruises.com
Regent Seven Seas Cruises
Phone: 1-877-505-5370
E-mail: information@RSSC.com
Scantours Inc
Phone: 1-800-223-7226
E-mail: info@scantours.com
Silversea Cruises
Phone: 1-800-722-9955
Website: www.silversea.com
Travelocity
www.travelocity.com/scandinavia
World Expeditions
Phone: 1-888-464-8735
E-mail: contactus@weadventures.com
Zegrahm Expeditions
Phone: 1-800-628-8747
E-mail: zoe@zeco.com
Cultural Tours
AdventureWomen, Inc.
Phone: 1-800-804-8686
E-mail: advwomen@aol.com
Escorted Europe with Icelandair
Phone: 1-800-466-6990
E-mail: info@escortedeurope.com
Globus & Cosmos
Phone: 1-866-755-8581
mloiseau@globusandcosmos.com
Holiday Vacations
Phone: 1-800-826-2266
E-mail: holidayvacations.net
Horizon Holidays
Phone: 1-416-585-9911
E-mail: admin@horizon-holidays.com
Icelandair Holidays
Phone: 1-800-779-2899
E-mail: holidays@icelandair.is
Lucky Mindy Adventures, LLC
Phone: 1-877-291-1053
E-mail: luckymin@hutchtel.net
Phone: 1-800-826-5614, 206-306-9099
E-mail: jaystern@luxuryguides.com
RMC’s Body Mind Spirit Journeys
Phone: 1-800-231-9811
Phone: 1-800-779-2899
E-mail: holidays@icelandair.is
LT Travel, Inc.
Phone: 1-800-711-7242
E-mail: bmsjourneys@aol.com E-mail: Lina@LinaTravel.com
Storyfest Icelandic Journeys Points North Inc.(Canada)
Phone: 1-301-791-9153 Phone: 1-204-949-3023
E-mail: storyfest@mac.com E-mail: icelandair@gctc-mst.com
Tumlare Travel Organization ScanAm World Tours, Inc.
Phone: 1-800-954-6713 Phone: 1-800-545-2004
E-mail: josephgr@tumlare.com E-mail: info@scanamtours.com
Vantage Deluxe Wrld Travel The Nordic Company
Phone: 1-800-322-6677 Phone: 1-888-806-7226
webreservations@vantagetravel.com E-mail: info@nordicco.com
World Stage Concerts & Tours
Phone: 1-732-634-3811 Music
E-mail: WSConcerts@aol.com
Icelandair Holidays
Phone: 1-800-779-2899
Eco Tours E-mail: holidays@icelandair.is
Clipper Cruise Line World Stage Concerts & Tours
Phone: 1-800-325-0010 Phone: 1-732-634-3811
E-mail: clipper@clippercruise.com E-mail: wsconcerts@aol.com
ElderTreks
Phone: 1-800-741-7956 Hunting/Fishing
E-mail: info@eldertreks.com
Angler Adventures
Cross Culture
Phone: 1-860-434-9624
Phone: 1-800-491-1148
E-mail: doug@angleradventures.com
E-mail: travel@crosscultureinc.com
Frontiers International
Holbrook
Phone: 1-800-245-1950
Phone: 1-800-451-7111
E-mail: info@frontierstravel.com
E-mail: travel@holbrooktravel.com
Iceland Outdoor Adventures
Icelandair Holidays
Phone: 1-732-441-7390
Phone: 1-800-779-2899
E-mail: prodlinkus@aol.com
E-mail: holidays@icelandair.is
Lindblad Expeditions
Sportfishing Worldwide
Phone: 1-513-984-8611
Phone: 1-800-762-0003
E-mail: info@sfww.com
E-mail: info@expeditions.com
Mountain Travel Sobek
Phone: 1-800-282-8747
Horseback Riding Tours
E-mail: info@mtsobek.com Canyon Calling Tours
Phone: 1-928-282-0916
Natural Habitat
E-mail: funtrips@canyoncalling.com
Phone: 1-800-543-8917
Hidden Trails
E-mail: mattk@nathab.com
Phone:1-888-9-TRAILS
Photo Adventure Tours
E-mail: info@hiddentrails.com
Phone: 1-516-371-0067
photoadventuretours@yahoo.com Horses North, LLC
Sustainable Travel International Phone: 1-888-686-6784
Phone: 1-720-273-2975 E-mail: horsesnorth@taconic.net
info@sustainabletravelinternational.org Iceland Outdoor Adventures
The Walking Connection Phone: 1-732-441-7390
Phone: 1-602-978-1887 E-mail: prodlinkus@aol.com
E-mail: info@walkingconnection.com Icelandair Holidays
Phone: 1-800-779-2899
Fly+Drive Packages E-mail: holidays@icelandair.is
Lucky Mindy Adventures, LLC
Auto Europe
Phone: 1-877-291-1053
Phone: 1-800-223-5555
E-mail: luckymin@hutchtel.net
E-mail: reservations@autoeurope.com
Pack & Pedal Europe
Five Stars of Scandinavia
Phone: 1-877-965-2064
Phone: 1-800-722-4126
E-mail: gea@tripsite.com
E-mail: info@5stars-of-scandinavia.com
TMB Travel / Protravel Int
Golf Vacations
Phone: 1-508-620-9730 Phone: 1-212-702-2648 29
E-mail: thorunn@protravelinc.com
E-mail: tom@golfvacations.com
ITS Tours & Travel
Senior Travel
Phone: 1-800-533-8688
E-mail: its-tour@tca.net Collette Vacations
Iceland Saga Travel, LLC Phone: 1-800-340-5158
Phone: 1-866-423-7242 reservations@collettevacations.com
E-mail: info@icelandsagatravel.com
Icelandic Tourist Board
P.O. Box 4649 • Grand Central Station
New York • NY 10163-4649
Tel.: 1-212-885-9700 • Fax: 1-212-855-9710
info@icelandtouristboard.com • www.icelandtouristboard.com
 Elderhostel Travel & Play with Icelandair laws. In the year 1000, Icelandic-born Leifur COUNTRIES EXEMPTED FROM VISA Arriving in Iceland varying from one shop to another. Some
Phone: 1-800-454-5768 Phone: 1-800-824-8347 Eiriksson (Leif Eriksson, sometimes called “Leif REQUIREMENTS besides Canada and the supermarkets are open to 11 PM seven days a
E-mail: website@elderhostel.org E-mail: icelandair@travelandplay.com AIRPORT BUSES: service is operated between
ElderTreks Tumlare Travel Organization
the Lucky”) became the first European to set United States of America: Andorra, Argentina, Reykjavik and Keflavik International Airport. week. Many shops and stores are closed on
Phone: 1-800-741-7956 Phone: 1-800-954-6713 foot in North America. On another Viking Australia, Austria, Belgium, Bolivia, Brazil, Buses leave Reykjavik from the BSI bus Saturdays during the summer – June, July and
E-mail: info@eldertreks.com E-mail: josephgr@tumlare.com expedition a couple of years later, Icelander Brunei, Bulgaria, Chile, Costa Rica, Croatia, terminal 2,5 hours before flight departure. The August – but the woolen goods stores are
Globus & Cosmos Vantage Deluxe World Travel Gudrid Thorbjarnardottir had a son, Snorri, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Ecuador, El open on Saturdays and some on Sundays as
Phone: 1-866-755-8581 Phone: 1-800-322-6677
drive from the airport to Reykjavik takes about
who became the first child of European Salvador, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, 40–50 minutes. The fare is ISK 1,500 one way well. Shops outside Reykjavik in service centers
mloiseau@globusandcosmos.com webreservations@vantagetravel.com
Grand Circle Travel descent to be born in America. The Old Com- Greece, Guatemala, Honduras, Hong Kong for adults and ISK 750 one way for children or gas stations are often open all day (9 AM to
Phone: 1-800-959-0405 monwealth Age, described in the classic (applicable for those holding HKSAR 12–15 years. 10, 11, or 11:30 PM) every day of the week.
E-mail: online@gct.com Icelandic Sagas, lasted until 1262, when passports), Hungary, Ireland, Israel, Italy, Japan,
Holiday Vacations
FAST FACTS ON ICELAND ARRIVAL IN SEYDISFJORDUR: From TAX REFUND: A refund of local Value-Added
LAND: Iceland is an island of almost 40,000 Iceland lost its independence. In 1918 it Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg,
Phone: 1-800-826-2266 Seydisfjordur it is easy to take a bus to all Tax (VAT) is available to all visitors in Iceland.
E-mail: holidayvacations.net square miles, equal to that of Ohio. Iceland’s regained independence and in 1944 the Macao (applicable for those holding MSAR
major destinations in Iceland. The trip from The refund will result in a reduction of up to
Horizon Holidays highest peak, Hvannadalshnukur, is 6,500 ft. present republic was founded. The country is passports), Malaysia, Malta, Mexico (Holders of
Seydisfjordur to Reykjavik takes about 8–9 15% of the retail price, provided departure
Phone: 1-416-585-9911 governed by the Althing (Parliament), whose Mexican Diplomatic and Service Passports are
E-mail: admin@horizon-holidays.com Iceland has the largest glaciers in Europe – in hours and from Seydisfjordur to Akureyri about from Iceland is within 3 months after the date
fact, 11% of the country is covered by glaciers. 63 members are elected every four years. obliged to be in possession of a visa.),
MWT Associates 5–6 hours in one go. of purchase. The purchase amount must be no
Phone: 1-877-707-7827 The coastline is dotted with more than one Elections every four years are also held for the Monaco, Netherlands, New Zealand,
For information: tel.: +354-472-1551 less than ISK 5,000 per sales receipt, and all
E-mail: tours@melitatrips.com hundred fjords – and green, fertile valleys presidency; President Olafur Ragnar Grimsson Nicaragua, Norway, Panama, Paraguay, Poland,
ferjuhus@simnet.is • www.seydisfjordur.is goods (except woolens) need to be shown at
Norwegian Coastal Voyage Inc./Bergen Line was elected in June 2004 for the third time. Portugal, Romania, San Marino, Singapore,
Services
extend from them. Iceland also has more than customs before check-in. At Keflavik Airport
10,000 waterfalls and countless hot springs. Slovakia, Slovenia, South Korea, Spain, AIRPORT TAXIS: Taxis are always waiting
Phone: 1-800-323-7436 ECONOMY: The economy is heavily depend- this only applies to tax-free forms whose
Sweden, Switzerland, Great Britain (incl. outside the arrival hall. Cab fare to Reykjavik
E-mail: info@coastalvoyage.com
ENERGY: Situated on the Mid-Atlantic Ridge, ent upon fisheries, which are the nation’s refund value exceeds ISK 5,000. All other forms
Vantage Deluxe World Travel Bermuda (Holders of British passports who for a four-passenger taxi is approximately USD
Iceland is a hot spot of volcanic and geother- greatest resource. 70% of all exports are made can be refunded directly in cash at Landsbanki
Phone: 1-800-322-6677 have a national passport, or a person holding 165.
mal activity. 30 volcanoes have erupted in the up of seafood products. Yet only a small Islands in the departure hall.
webreservations@vantagetravel.com an identity card issued by the competent
Walking The World past two centuries, and natural hot water proportion of the workforce is active in this
authority and where the citizenship is stated as In Iceland DUTY-FREE: Duty-free stores at Keflavik
Phone: 1-800-340-9255 supplies much of the population with cheap, sector (4.4% in fishing and 5.6% in fish
“British Citizen” or “British National Overseas” Airport are open to coincide with flight
E-mail: info@walkingtheworld.com processing). About 66% of the workforce is BUSINESS AND BANKING HOURS: Office
pollution-free heating. Rivers, too, are (BNO) and which is valid for entry into Great departures and arrivals.
employed in services. Icelanders enjoy one of hours are generally 9 AM to 5 PM and 8 AM to
SPA’s/Swimming/Fitness harnessed to provide inexpensive hydroelec- Britain, Turks and Caicos Islands, Cayman
the highest standards of living in the world. 4 PM during June, July and August. Shopping LAUNDRY: Laundry and dry cleaning services
Icelandair Holidays
tric power. Islands, Anguilla, Montserrat, British Virgin hours are Mon–Fri 9 AM to 6 PM, Sat from 10 are available at most hotels throughout the
Phone: 1-800-779-2899 PEOPLE: Of a population numbering 290,000, HEALTH and EDUCATION: Life expectancy Islands, St. Helena, Falkland Islands and AM to 1, 2, 3 or 4 PM. Some supermarkets are country. For further information on public
E-mail: holidays@icelandair.is (81.3 years for women and 76.4 for men) is one Gibraltar), Uruguay, Vatican and Venezuela.
RMC’s Body Mind Spirit Journeys
more than half lives in the Greater Reykjavik open to 11 PM seven days a week or even 24 laundry contact tourist information centers.
Area. The native language is Icelandic but of the highest in the world, and a comprehen-
Phone: 1-800-231-9811 VISAS: Anyone visiting Iceland for short hours in the largest towns. Banking hours are
E-mail: bmsjourneys@aol.com most Icelanders speak fluent English. sive state health-care system aims to keep it
periods of time from a country with a visa Mon–Fri 9:15 AM to 4 PM.
that way. The population enjoys a high-quality
LANGUAGE: The Icelanders still speak the requirement for entering the country must CURRENCY REGULATIONS: There is no limit
Special Tours for the Handicapped public school system, including its own
Iceland Outdoor Adventures
language of the Vikings (Old Norse). When university since 1911. Many Icelanders receive
obtain a visa prior to arrival. Because one on the amount of foreign currency which may Licensing and
Phone: 1-732-441-7390 new words are needed, they simply coin words Schengen State can now issue visas on behalf be brought into Iceland.
their Masters degrees abroad. Universities in
E-mail: prodlinkus@aol.com that are combinations or modifications of old the USA are quite popular with Icelanders.
of the others, the procedure for issuance has registration of
Lucky Mindy Adventures, LLC become different. Questions of how to obtain CURRENCY EXCHANGE: The Icelandic
words. Iceland is alone in upholding another
Phone: 1-877-291-1053
Norse tradition: the custom of using a visa should be addressed to The Icelandic monetary unit is the “krona.” Coins are in travel-related services
E-mail: luckymin@hutchtel.net denominations of 100 kr., 50 kr., 10 kr., 5 kr. and
patronyms rather than surnames. If, for TRAVEL FACTS Directorate of Immigration. Schengen visas
should be obtained prior to arrival in the 1 kr. Bank notes are in denominations of 5000 The Icelandic Tourist Board
Sports Tours example, Einar has a son named “Petur”, the
kr., 2000 kr., 1000 kr., and 500 kr. All Icelandic
Freewheeling Adventures son’s name is Petur Einarsson (Peter Einar’s Before you go Schengen area. In most instances, Nordic issues licences to tour operators
embassies will handle visa applications on banks provide foreign exchange and are
Phone: Canada 902-857-3600 Son). If Einar has a daughter whom he names PASSPORT: A valid passport, valid at least and travel agents, as well as
E-mail: adventure@freewheeling.ca behalf of Iceland. A visa normally grants the generally open on weekdays from 9:15 AM to 4
“Margret”, she becomes Margret Einarsdottir three months beyond intended stay, is
Golf Vacations holder a right to stay in the entire Schengen PM. issuing registration to booking
(Margaret Einar’s Daughter). Members of the required for visitors to Iceland.
Phone: 1-508-620-9730 services and information centres.
E-mail: tom@golfvacations.com same family can therefore have different “last region: Belgium, France, Greece, Iceland, Italy, ATM’s are found in most banks and many other
THE SCHENGEN AGREEMENT: The
Travel & Play with Icelandair names”, which often causes confusion to Luxembourg, Holland, Portugal, Germany, locations throughout Reykjavik, accepting all
Schengen agreement took effect for Iceland
Phone: 1-800-824-8347 foreigners. If you are looking for someone in Spain, Austria, Denmark, Finland, Norway and major debit, credit and cash-only cards. Tour operators and travel agents
E-mail: icelandair@travelandplay.com on March 26, 2001 and the following countries
the phone directory, you look them up by their Sweden. A visa does not grant the right to
Value Holidays participate in the Schengen cooperation in TRAVELERS’ CHECKS: Travelers’ checks are are required to use a special
first name. work in Iceland, unless immigration authorities
Phone 1-800-558-6850 addition to Iceland: Austria, Belgium, widely accepted in Iceland. logo approved by the Icelandic
have explicitly granted the applicant this right.
30 E-mail: ken@valhol.com CHURCH: The National Church of Iceland, to Denmark, Finland, France, Greece, Holland,
It is a requirement for all visa applications that, DEBIT CARDS: Electron, Maestro and edc Tourist Board on all their 31
which 90% of the population belongs, is Italy, Luxembourg, Norway, Portugal, Spain, debit cards are increasingly being accepted by
Tour Operators for Group Leaders that the time of making the application; the advertisements and on their
Evangelical Lutheran. In addition to the many Sweden and Germany. Travel between above- merchants.
Brekke Tours/Scandinavia applicant resides legally in the country from Internet website.
Lutheran churches in Reykjavik, there is a mentioned countries will in principle be
Phone: 1-800-437-5302 which the application is submitted. Docu- CREDIT CARDS: Credit cards are widely used
E-mail: tours@brekketours.com Roman Catholic Cathedral and numerous without document check.
ments to be enclosed with the application e.g.: in Iceland and accepted by most
Collette Vacations other houses of worship. Booking services and
Phone: 1-800-340-5158
ATTENTION: Nationals of the following A valid travel document on which a visa may establishments, including hotels, restaurants,
reservations@collettevacations.com TIME: Iceland stays on Greenwich Mean Time countries do not require visas to travel to be affixed. Where necessary, documents car rentals and shops. information centres are entitled
Escorted Europe with Icelandair (GMT) all year round. Iceland as visitors (information from May 2004), supporting the purpose and the conditions of to use a Tourist Board logo on
Phone: 1-800-466-6990 although they do require valid travel the planned visit, guarantees of means of SHOPPING: The stores and shops in Iceland
E-mail: info@escortedeurope.com HISTORY: The first permanent settler of are of international standard and carry a wide all their material. The logos
documents that are valid for three months return and means of subsistence, personal
LTA World Discoveries Iceland was Ingolfur Arnarson, a Norwegian variety of merchandise. Local specialties are below are recognised by the
Phone: 1-888-261-8808 beyond their intended stay. All foreigners, interviews with applicants, two passport
Viking who in AD874 made his home where
iceland_adventures@letstravelagain.com except citizens of EEA, will have to have photos and travel insurance. A list of woolen knitwear (for example sweaters, Icelandic Tourist Board.
Reykjavik now stands. In AD930, the Viking cardigans, hats and mittens), handmade
MWT Associates sufficient funds at the external borders for their embassies and further information is updated
Phone: 1-877-707-7827 settlers of Iceland founded one of the world’s ceramics, glassware and silver jewelry. Also Travel Agency Tour Operator Booking Office Information Office
stay in the Schengen area and they will have to on the Icelandic Directorate of Immigration
E-mail: tours@melitatrips.com first republican governments. They established available is a great variety of high-quality
Pearls of Scandinavia have a valid return ticket or sufficient funds for web site www.utl.is/english
a constitution based on individual freedom, seafood. Shopping hours are Mon–Fri 9 AM to Authorised by Authorised by Registrated by Registrated by

Phone: 1-231-946-2242 a return ticket to their country of residence. Icelandic Tourist Board Icelandic Tourist Board Icelandic Tourist Board Icelandic Tourist Board

land ownership, and sophisticated inheritance 6 PM, Sat from 10 AM to 1, 2, 3 or 4 PM,

E-mail: pearls@traverse.com
 POST OFFICES: There are post offices located Keep in mind, however, that the sun at MEDICAL HELP: There is a medical centre or
in all major communities in Iceland. For midnight is not so warm as at midday, so bring hospital in all major cities and towns in Iceland.
H Ú S AV Í K O R I G I N A L
information on opening hours see along a sweater. The emergency phone number (24 hours) in

mountainguides.is
http://www.postur.is/english Iceland is 112. See also http://www.safetravel.is
Daylight (sunrise/sunset)
TELEPHONES: Direct calls can be made to all EMERGENCY: The 24 hours emergency phone
Reykjavik Isafjordur Akureyri
parts of Iceland. number in Iceland is 112. For information you
Jan 1 11:19 12:02 11:33 can call the police in Reykjavik (information
THE CODE into Iceland from overseas is 15:43 15:10 14:59
only): +354-444-1100. See also www.icesar.com
(+354) + seven-digit number. Direct long- Feb 1 10:10 10:31 10:07
distance calls can be made to Europe and the 17:14 17:02 16:46 VISITORS WITH DISABILITIES: Visitors with
USA by dialing 00 plus the country code, the disabilities can make traveling in Iceland fairly
Mar 1 08:34 08:44 08:23
area code and the telephone number you wish 18:48 18:47 18:28 easy by planning their vacations in advance.
to reach. If assistance is required, dial (+354) They may also find it necessary to travel with a
Apr 1 06:44 06:45 06:26
905-5010 for information and (+354) 533-5010 companion, for although there are many hotels
20:20 20:30 20:09
to place a call. COIN- AND CARD-OPERATED and restaurants accessible to people with
May 1 04:58 04:47 04:31
public phones are at post offices and disabilities, they do not always provide full
21:53 22:15 21:51
telephone exchanges around the country. assistance. A number of hotels in Reykjavik and
Phone charges vary when calling within Iceland June1 03:21 02:39 02:32 Akureyri have rooms specially designed for
depending on the time of day. Rates may also 23:32 00:26* 23:52 guests with disabilities. Larger department
July1 03:06 —— 01:59
be higher at hotels than at public phones.
23:56 01:22* 00:30*
stores are generally accessible to wheelchair
SAF AVEL
DIC TR TION
users. The coastal ferry Baldur is accessible to ELAN IA
THE IC RY ASSOC
MOBILE PHONES: US standard cellular INDU
ST
Aug 1 04:35 04:18 04:03 people with disabilities and so is the ferry D
phones do not work in Iceland. WAR
ON A
22:30 22:56 22:32 Herjolfur. All airlines flying to and from Iceland VATI
2007
INNO
GSM: There are four GSM operators in Sep 1 06:11 06:08 05:50 are equipped to accommodate travelers with

Blue Ice
Iceland: Siminn, Vodafone, TAL and Nova. 20:42 20:54 20:33 disabilities. A few domestic buses equipped
Together they cover most of Iceland including Oct 1 07:37 07:44 07:23 for wheelchair users are available for special
all towns and villages with over 200 18:56 18:58 18:39 tours upon request. Specialized tour compa-
inhabitants. These four telephone companies Nov 1 09:12 09:29 09:06 nies for disabled travelers are available such

Glacier

Spör - Ragnheiður Ágústsdóttir

all sell pre-paid GSM phone cards and offer 17:10 17:02 16:45 as: Travel Friends • Tel. (+354) 564 4092,
GSM/GPRS services. Pre-paid cards are tourist@islandia.is. For accessible
Dec 1 10:46 11:21 10:54
available at petrol stations around the country.
GSM phones may be rented from Iceland
15:47 15:21 15:08
Times marked with an asterisk (*) refer to the
hotels and tourist attractions, see
www.sjalfsbjorg.is/adgengi. Adventures
Telecom, Armuli 27, in Reykjavik.
FAX: Fax service is available at most post
following date.
Used with the kind permission of the Almanac
PUBLIC HOLIDAYS: Businesses, banks and
most stores are closed on these holidays:
- for everyone!
offices around the country. The fax code into of the University of Iceland. w w w. n o r t h s a i l i n g . i s Icelandic Mountain Guides - Tel:+354 587 9999
2009 2010
Iceland is (+354) + seven-digit number.
TIME: Iceland stays on Greenwich Mean Time Jan 1 New Year’s Day Jan 1
TELEGRAMS: For information on telegram (GMT) throughout the year. When it is noon in Apr 9 Maundy Thursday Apr 1
service call +354-580-1446. Reykjavik during the summer, the time is 8 AM Apr 10 Good Friday Apr 2
CLIMATE: Thanks to the Gulf Stream, Iceland in New York City, 1 PM in London, 2 PM in Apr 12 Easter Sunday Apr 4
enjoys a cool temperate ocean climate: cool in Paris, 2 PM in Oslo, 2 PM in Rome and 9 PM in Apr 13 Easter Monday Apr 5
summer and fairly mild in winter. However, the Tokyo. Apr 23 First Day of Summer Apr 22
weather is very changeable and tourists should May 1 Labour Day May 1
be prepared for the unexpected. May 21 Ascension Day May 13
GENERAL INFORMATION May 31 Whit Sunday May 23
Average temperature in Reykjavik MEDICAL HELP/PHARMACIES/ June 1 Whit Monday May 24
January 35°F EMERGENCY: In Iceland you will find more June 17 National Day June 17
April 42°F physicians per capita than anywhere in the Aug 3 Bank Holiday Monday Aug 2
July 56°F world. Hospitals and all medical care are of the Dec 24 Christmas Eve (from noon) Dec 24
October 44°F highest quality found anywhere. Icelanders Dec. 25 Christmas day Dec. 25
WEATHER/CLOTHING: For weather enjoy a healthy life, thanks to clean air and
32 information in English, Tel.: (+354) 902-0600, water. Water is safe to drink throughout
Dec. 26 Second Day of Christmas
Dec. 31 New Years Eve (from noon)
Dec. 26
Dec. 31
extension 44, office@vedur.is, Iceland. Pharmacies are called “Apotek” and
NEWS IN ENGLISH: A short news broadcast in
http://en.vedur.is. When traveling to Iceland in are open during normal business hours. Many
English is made on State Radio, FM 93.5 and
winter you should bring along clothing similar are open at night. Reykjavik has a great many
FM 92.4, every morning Mon–Fri at 07:31 AM
to what you would wear at the same time of general practitioners, as well as specialists,
from June 1 to Sept. 1. A telephone recording
year in the US north-east. For summer you many of whom will receive patients on short
of the broadcast can also be heard, Tel.: (+354)
might want to bring along lightweight notice. There are also many health centers in
515-3690.
woolens, a windbreaker, sneakers and sturdy Reykjavik, with officially appointed family
walking shoes if you plan to go hiking. Always doctors who receive patients on short notice TIPPING: Service and VAT are invariably
bring a swimsuit – year-round. during the day. A Health Centre for Tourists is included in prices in Iceland so tipping is not
located at Baronsstigur 47 in Reykjavik Center. necessary.
MIDNIGHT SUN: During summer the nights
It is a walk-in clinik and is open from 09:00 am
are bright in all of Iceland. In the month of ELECTRIC CURRENT: The electric current in
to 12:00 pm week days. The service rate at the
June the sun never fully sets in the north. Iceland is 220 volts, 50 HZ AC. Please note that
Health Centre is ISK 3.500.- For information call
There are even special excursions to the island the prongs on electrical equipment you bring
+354-458-9060 or see
of Grimsey on the Arctic Circle where you can with you may be different from Icelandic
www.heilsuverndarstodin.is
experience the midnight sun, if it is not cloudy! standards. It is advisable to check before using
 such equipment. Most hotels offer adapters
but they may be in limited supply.
DRIVING IN ICELAND: There is no better way
to get to know a country and its people than
by traveling independently – according to
one’s own itinerary. A journey to Iceland
outside the normal tourist season can be an
unforgettable experience. Traveling conditions
are usually good in most parts of the country
from April to November.
The mountain roads are often very narrow, and
are not made for speed. The same goes for
many bridges, which are only wide enough for
one car at a time. In addition to not having an
asphalt surface, the mountain roads are often
very winding. Journeys therefore often take
longer than might be expected.
For information on road conditions, Tel.: 1777,
while in Iceland, daily 8 AM to 4 PM
www.road.is. The total length of the Ring Road
around Iceland (National Highway) is 900 miles.
The national speed limit in 90 km/h (55 mph).
Some roads, though, have a lower limit. Road
signs are numerous and easy to read. In
Iceland all off-the-road driving outside of
marked tracks is prohibited by law. Seat belts
are required for all motorists at all times.
Headlight use is required both day and night.
And there is no right-turn on red.
PLEASE NOTE: special warning signs indicate
danger ahead, such as sharp bends, but there
is generally not a separate sign to reduce
speed. Please choose a safe speed according
to conditions. Motorists are obliged by law to
use headlights at all times day and night. In
Iceland all driving off roads or marked
tracks is prohibited by law. Passengers in the
front and back seats of any vehicle are
required by law to use safety-belts. Icelandic
law forbids any driving under the influence of
alcohol.
MOTOR VEHICLE INSURANCE: Basic third-
party liability insurance is included in car rental
rates. Full coverage is available at extra
charge.
GAS STATIONS: In the greater Reykjavik area
most gas stations are open every day to 11:30
PM. Opening hours around the country, where
34 the pumps are privately operated, can vary
from place to place. Many gas stations in the
Reykjavik area and larger towns of Iceland have
automats in operation after closing, which
accept credit cards as well as notes. In rural or
interior areas, gas stations may sometimes be
far apart.
OPENING OF MOUNTAIN TRACKS: Most
mountain roads are closed until the end of
June, or even longer because of wet and mud-
dy conditions which make them totally impass-
able. When these roads are opened for traffic
many of them can only be negotiated by four-
wheel-drive vehicles. For some mountain
tracks it is strongly advised that two or more
cars travel together. Also, before embarking on
any journey into the interior collect as much in-
formation as possible regarding road condi-
tions from a travel bureau, tourist information
office or the Public Roads Administration, Tel.:
1777 (while in Iceland), daily 8 AM to 4 PM,
www.road.is. Always take along a detailed map.
Average Opening Dates Of Some Mountain
Tracks:
Lakagigar (F206) ...................................June 12
Fjallabaksleid Nyrdri (F208):
Sigalda – Landmannalaugar ................June 12
Landmannalaugar – Eldgja..................June 23
Skaftartunga – Eldgja .............................June 4
Fjallabaksleid Sydri (F210):
Keldur – Hvannagil ..............................June 30
Hvannagil – Skaftartunga.....................June 30
Landmannaleid (F225):
(Domadalur) ......................................... June 15
Emstrur (F261) .......................................June 24
Kjalvegur (F35):
Gullfoss – Hveravellir............................June 11
Hveravellir – Blonduvirkjun ....................June 2
Sprengisandur (F26):
Hrauneyjar – Nyidalur...........................June 27
Nyidalur – Bardadalur ..........................June 27
Skagafjordur (F752) ..................................July 3
Eyjafjardarleid (F821) ...............................July 6
Askja (F88):
Askja – Herdubreidarlindir ...................June 19
Askja – Dreki .........................................June 20
Oskjuvatnsvegur (F894)........................June 21
Vesturdalur (Hljodaklettar) (F862) .........June 8
Kverkfjallaleid (F902) ............................June 19
Uxahryggjavegur (F52) ...........................June 5
Kaldadalsvegur (F550) ..........................June 13
MAPS: Maps Are Necessary For Visitors To
Iceland To Ensure Them An Enjoyable And
Safe Journey. Ask For Road Maps And Maps
Of Iceland At Local Tourist Offices, Bookstores
Or Filling Stations.
TOURIST INFORMATION
Tourist Information Centre
Adalstraeti 2 • IS-101 Reykjavik
Tel.: +354-590-1550 • Fax: +354-590-1551
E-mail: tourinfo@tourinfo.is
www.visitreykjavik.is
Tourist Information Centre
V/Bruartorg • IS-310 Borgarnes
Tel.: +354-437-2214 • Fax: +354-437-2314
E-mail: tourinfo@vesturland.is • www.west.is
Tourist Information Centre
Adalstraeti 7 • IS-400 Isafjordur
Tel.: +354-450-8060 • Fax: +354-456-5185
E-mail: info@vestfirdir.is • www.westfjords.is
Tourist Information Centre
Varmahlid • IS-560 Varmahlid
Tel.: +354-455-6161
E-mail: info@skagafjordur.is
www.skagafjordur.is
Tourist Information Centre
Hafnarstraeti 82 • IS-600 Akureyri
Tel.: +354-553-5999 • Fax: +354-553-5909
E-mail: info@visitakureyri.is • www.nordurland.is
Tourist Information Centre
Kaupvangur 10, P.O. Box 144
IS-700 Egilsstadir
Tel.: +354-471-2320 • Fax: +354-471-1863
E-mail: east@east.is • www.east.is
Tourist Information Centre
Ferjuleiri 1 • IS-710 Seydisfjordur
Tel.: +354-472-1551 • GSM: +354-861-7789 Whale
E-mail: ferdamenning@sfk.is
ferjuhus@simnet.is • www.seydisfjordur.is
Watching
Take part in an adventure at sea with an
Tourist Information Centre
unforgettable trip into the world of whales and
Hafnarbraut 30 • IS-780 Hofn (Hornafjordur)
sea birds. The various types of whales
Tel.: +354-478-1500
commonly sighted include minke whales,
E-mail: tourinfo@hornafjordur.is
white-beaked dolphins, harbour porpoises and
www.visitvatnajokull.is
the popular humpback whales.
Tourist Information Centre Daily departures
Sunnumork 2–4 • IS-810 Hveragerdi
Tel.: +354-483-4601 • Fax: +354-483-4604
E-mail: tourinfo@hveragerdi.is • www.south.is
Tourist Information Centre
Kjarninn • Hafnargata 57 • 230 Keflavik - warm overalls - 96% sightings - bar on board
Tel.: +354-421-6777 • Fax: +354-421-3150
E-mail: reykjanes@reykjanesbaer.is
www.reykjanes.is
Sea angling
Sea angling tours are scheduled daily from
SÍA
•
Reykjavík harbour from early June to late
P I PAR
August and can be booked at other times.
TOURS
Iceland offers a great variety of tours, some Catch them if you can!
covering large parts of the country, others
Hertz Car Rental
small areas at a time. There are traditional Flugvallarvegi
101 Reykjavik, Iceland
tours as well as tours quite different from what
hertz@hertz.is
can be experienced elsewhere. There are
www.hertz.is
HAFSÚLAN Tel. +354 522 44 00
Fax. +354 522 44 01
nature tours with striking landscapes, young Reykjavík Whale Watching / Tel: (+354) 555 3565 / elding@elding.is / www.elding.is
lava fields, roaring waterfalls and majestic
glacial icecaps. In addition, there are
organized day tours, and weekend and holiday
tours all year round with Icelandic touring clubs
where the emphasis is on hiking.
Traveling into the uninhabited interior of
Iceland is limited to the months of June, July
and August, except for some specially orga-
nized winter tours (see section on opening of
the mountain tracks). Winter tours in Iceland
are unforgettable: there is skiing for both
beginners and the experienced, glacier tours
on snowmobile or snow cats, and ice fishing.
Reykjavik Excursions
Vesturvor 34 (head office) • IS-200 Kopavogur
Tel.: +354-580-5400 • Fax: +354-564-4776
E-mail: main@re.is • www.re.is 35
Organized Tours
All year, different varieties of tours are
available, lasting from a few days up to three
weeks. There are hotel tours, camping tours,
hiking tours, geological tours, bird-watching
tours, bicycling tours, air tours, historical tours,
glacier tours, horseback riding tours – or a
combination of these. For booking, please
contact Icelandair offices or any authorized
travel agency listed below.
Authorized Travel Agencies and Tour
Operators in Iceland
Arinbjorn Johannsson Erlebnistouren
Brekkulaekur • IS-531 Hvammstangi
 Tel.: +354-451-2938 • Fax: +354-451-2998
E-mail: brekka@nett.is
www.geysir.com/Brekkulaekur
Atlantik
Grandagardur 14 • IS-101 Reykjavik
Tel.: +354-575-9900 • Fax: +354-575-9915
E-mail: at@atlantik.is • www.atlantik.is
Iceland Excursions – Gray Line Iceland
Hofdatun 12 • IS-105 Reykjavik
Tel.: +354-540-1313 • Fax: +354-540-1310
E-mail: iceland@grayline.is
www.icelandexcursions.is • www.grayline.is
Discover the World Island ehf. – Arctic
Experience
Stangarhylur 1 • IS-110 Reykjavik
Tel.: +354-561-3200 / +354-770-2220
Fax: +354-561-3223
E-mail: info@dtw.is • www.dtw.is
Gudmundur Jonasson Travel
Borgartun 34 • IS-105 Reykjavik
Tel.: +354-511-1515 • Fax: +354-511-1511
E-mail: gjtravel@gjtravel.is • www.gjtravel.is
Erlingsson Naturreisen
Tjarnargata 4 • IS-101 Reykjavik
Tel.: +354-551-9700 • Fax: +354-551-9703
E-mail: erlingsson@naturreisen.is
wwww.naturreisen.is
Halendisferdir
Baldursgata 10 • IS-101 Reykjavik
Tel.: +354-864-0412
E-mail: info@halendisferdir.is
www.halendisferdir.is
Iceland ProTravel
Ármúli 15 • IS-108 Reykjavík
Tel.: +354-588-2663 • Fax: +354-515-0509
E-mail: memo@islandprotravel.is
www.islandprotravel.is
Iceland Tours Incentives
Skogarhlid 18 • IS-105 Reykjavik
Tel.: +354-591-9010 • Fax: +354-591-9001
E-mail: info@incentives.is • www.incentives.is
Iceland Travel
Skutuvogur 13A • IS-104 Reykjavik
Tel.: +354-585-4300 • Fax: +354-585-4390
E-mail: sales@icelandtravel.is
www.icelandtravel.is • www.icelandtotal.com
Icelandic Farm Holidays
Sidumuli 2 • IS-108 Reykjavik
36 Tel.: +354-570-2700 • Fax: +354-570-2799
E-mail: ifh@farmholidays.is
www.farmholidays.is
Isafold Travel
(Small Groups – Great Experience)
Sudurhraun 2b • IS-210 Gardabaer
Tel.: +354-544-8866 • Fax: +354-544-8869
E-mail: info@isafoldtravel.is
www.isafoldtravel.is
Ishestar Travel
Sorlaskeid 26 • IS-220 Hafnarfjordur
Tel.: +354-555-7000 • Fax: +354-555-7001
E-mail: info@ishestar.is • www.ishestar.is
Nonni Travel
Brekkugata 5 • IS-600 Akureyri
Tel.: +354-461-1841 • Fax: +354-461-1843
E-mail: nonni@nonnitravel.is
www.nonnitravel.is
Nordic Travel
Stangarhylur 1 • IS-110 Reykjavik
Tel.: +354-570-8600 • Fax: +354-552-9450
E-mail: info@nordictravel.is
www.nordictravel.is
Reykjavik Excursions
Vesturvor 34 (head office) IS-200 Kopavogur
Tel.: +354-580-5400 • Fax: +354-564-4776
E-mail: main@re.is • www.re.is
Teitur Jonasson Ltd. – Iceland Nature Tours
Dalvegur 22 • IS-201 Kopavogur
Tel.: +354-515-2700 • Fax: +354-515-2707
E-mail: info@teitur.is • www.teitur.is
Terra Nova
Skogarhlid 18 • IS-105 Reykjavik
Tel.: +354-591-9010 • Fax: +354-591-9001
E-mail: sales@terranova.is • www.terranova.is
TREX – Travel Experiences
Hesthals 10 • IS-110 Reykjavik
Hafnarstraeti 77 • IS-600 Akureyri
Tel.: +354-587-6000 • +354-461-1106
E-mail: info@trex.is • www.trex.is
Viking Trail Travel Agency
Fannafold 165 • IS-112 Reykjavik
Tel.: +354-567-2288 • Fax: +354-567-2280
E-mail: vikingaslodir@islandia.is
www.vikingaslodir.is
West Tours – Tours in the West Fjords
Adalstraeti 7 • IS-400 Isafjordur
Tel.: +354-456-5111 • Fax: +354-456-5185
E-mail: info@westtours.is • www.westtours.is
ACTIVITIES
Iceland is an ideal destination for today’s active
tourist. The following is a list of some of the
many activities available.
Activity Vacations
Activity vacations are offered all over Iceland.
These vacations may feature river rafting,
hiking, glacier tours, fishing, horseback riding,
boat tours, whale watching, swimming and
summer skiing.
For further information contact:
Iceland Excursions – Gray Line Iceland
Hofdatun 12 • IS-105 Reykjavik
Tel.: +354-540-1313 • Fax: +354-540-1310
E-mail: iceland@grayline.is
www.icelandexcursions.is • www.grayline.is
Icelandic Mountain Guide / Iceland Rovers
Vagnhofdi 7 • IS-110 Reykjavik
Tel.: +354-587-9999 • Fax: +354-587-9996
E-mail: mountainguide@mountainguide.is
www.mountainguides.is
www.icelandrovers.is
Blue Lagoon geothermal spa
IS-240 Grindavik
Tel.: +354-420-8800 • Fax: +354-420-8801
E-mail: bluelagoon@bluelagoon.com
www.bluelagoon.com
Reykjavik Excursions
Vesturvor 34 (head office) • IS-200 Kopavogur
Tel.: +354-580-5400 • Fax: +354-564-4776
E-mail: main@re.is • www.re.is
SBA – Nordurleid
Hjalteyrargata 10 • IS-600 Akureyri
Tel.: +354-550-0700 / 550-0770
Fax: +354-550-0701 / 550-0771
E-mail: sba@sba.is • www.sba.is
TREX – Travel Experiences
Hesthals 10 • IS-110 Reykjavik
Hafnarstraeti 77 • IS-600 Akureyri
Tel.: +354-587-6000 • +354-461-1106
E-mail: info@trex.is • www.trex.is
Dolphin & Whale Spotting
Elding Reykjavik Whale Watching
Aegisgardur 7 • Reykjavik Harbour
IS-101 Reykjavik
Tel.: +354-555-3565 • Fax: +354-554-7420
E-mail: elding@elding.is • www.elding.is
Seatours
Smidjustigur 3 • IS-340 Stykkisholmur
Tel.: +354-433-2254 • Fax: +354-438-1050
E-mail: seatours@seatours.is
www.seatours.is
Husavik Original Whale Watching with North
Sailing
Gamli baukur • IS-640 Husavik
Tel.: +354-464-7272 • Fax: +354-464-2351
E-mail: info@northsailing.is
www.northsailing.is
Bird-watching
Some places in Iceland are paradises for bird-
watchers. Latrabjarg in the West Fjords is the
largest known bird cliff in the world. A great
variety of cliff-nesting species can be found
there, including the largest razorbill colony in
the world. The Westman Islands are known for
many kinds of seabirds, and are home to
Iceland’s largest puffin population. Lake My-
vatn in the north has more species of breeding
ducks than any other place in Europe. The
great skua colony on the sands in south
Iceland is the largest in the world. Seabirds
such as puffins can be seen in many places, as
well as eiders, Arctic terns, waders and passer-
ine birds. Some tour operators organize tours
for bird-watchers in early summer.
Erlingsson Naturreisen
Tjarnargata 4 • IS-101 Reykjavik
Tel.: +354-551-9700 • Fax: +354-551-9703
E-mail: erlingsson@naturreisen.is
wwww.naturreisen.is
Seatours
Smidjustigur 3 • IS-340 Stykkisholmur
Tel.: +354-433-2254 • Fax: +354-438-1050
E-mail: seatours@seatours.is • www.seatours.is
West Tours – Tours in the West Fjords
Adalstraeti 7 • IS-400 Isafjordur
Tel.: +354-456-5111 • Fax: +354-456-5185
E-mail: info@westtours.is • www.westtours.is
Hiking
Iceland offers wide opportunities for hiking
enthusiasts. A large part of the most popular
routes are easily accessible and hiking maps
have been published for various regions within
the country. In national parks and protected
areas hiking paths are well marked, whereas
more adventurous routes in the islands interior
require experience and preparation. Hiking is a
favourite pastime for Icelanders and tourists
alike, but travellers should take care not to
disturb the extremely sensitive vegetation and
natural environment that is characteristic of the
island. Information on hiking trails can be
obtained at tourist information centres, park
authorities and the like. Many travel agencies
also organise hiking tours during both winter
and summer.
Arinbjorn Johannsson Erlebnistouren
Brekkulaekur • IS-531 Hvammstangi
Tel.: +354-451-2938 • Fax: +354-451-2998
E-mail: brekka@nett.is
www.geysir.com/Brekkulaekur
Erlingsson Naturreisen
Tjarnargata 4 • IS-101 Reykjavik
Tel.: +354-551-9700 • Fax: +354-551-9703
E-mail: erlingsson@naturreisen.is
www.naturreisen.is
Icelandic Mountain Guide / Iceland Rovers
Vagnhofdi 7 • IS-110 Reykjavik
Tel.: +354-587-9999 • Fax: +354-587-9996
E-mail: mountainguide@mountainguide.is
www.mountainguides.is • www.icelandrovers.is
West Tours – Tours in the West Fjords
Adalstraeti 7 • IS-400 Isafjordur
Tel.: +354-456-5111 • Fax: +354-456-5185
E-mail: info@westtours.is • www.westtours.is
Horse Riding
Numerous farms throughout Iceland offer
horse riding tours from 1 hour up to 10 days
(see brochure from the Farm Holiday Service).
Please note that all equestrian equipment
must be disinfected before arrival. For further
information please contact travel agencies and
those mentioned below.
Arinbjorn Johannsson Erlebnistouren
Brekkulaekur • IS-531 Hvammstangi
Tel.: +354-451-2938 • Fax: +354-451-2998
E-mail: brekka@nett.is
www.geysir.com/Brekkulaekur
Ishestar Riding Tours
Sorlaskeid 26 • IS-220 Hafnarfjordur
Tel.: +354-555-7000 • Fax +354-555-7001
E-mail: info@ishestar.is • www.ishestar.is
Polar Horses
Grytubakki 2 • IS-601 Akureyri
Tel.: +354-463-3179 • Fax: +354-463-3144
E-mail: polarhestar@polarhestar.is
www.polarhestar.is
Skiing
Winter skiing is available in many parts of the
country. Skiing resorts with both cross-country
and downhill skiing are found throughout
Iceland.
Cycling
Bikes can be rented in Reykjavik and in various
places around Iceland. For further information
on biking tours please contact tourist
information centers.
Fishing and Hunting
Iceland is famous for its salmon and trout
fishing. The main season for salmon fishing is
from around June 20th to mid-September.
Trout fishing varies from one river/lake to the
next, but the normal season is from April/ May
until late September/October. During winter,
ice fishing is quite popular. For salmon fishing,
permits must be reserved well in advance, but
trout fishing permits can be obtained on short
notice, often the same day.
Sea Angling
Sea angling is also becoming a popular sport
in Iceland. The season begins late in May and
lasts until the end of August with several
tournaments in different parts of the country.
For further information please contact local
tourist information centers and travel agencies
as well as:
Elding Sea Angling Tours
Aegisgardur 7 • Reykjavik Harbour
IS-101 Reykjavik
Tel.: +354-555-3565 • Fax: +354-554-7420
E-mail: elding@elding.is • www.elding.is
Seatours
Smidjustigur 3 • IS-340 Stykkisholmur
Tel.: +354-433-2254 • Fax: +354-438-1050
E-mail: seatours@seatours.is • www.seatours.is
Golf
Iceland has over 50 golf courses throughout
the island, some with outstanding views and
always close to nature. Golf can be played in
Iceland from May through September and in
the summer golf can be played around-the-
clock due to the midnight sun. Visitors are
welcome at the courses. Green fees vary from
USD 15 to 30. Some courses offer clubs for
rent.
Midnight Golf in Iceland – The Arctic Open:
At Akureyri Golf Club in the north, golf can be
played with the sun shining at midnight. At the
end of June a 36-hole open international
match is held. Tee-off is just before midnight
and playing continues until the early hours of
the morning. For further information contact
local tourist information centers and travel
agencies or see www.arcticopen.is • See also
www.golf.is
Reykjavik Marathon
The Reykjavik Marathon is an international and
annual event. The Reykjavik Marathon will be
held on August 22nd 2009.
www.reykjavikmarathon.com
Swimming and Spas
Swimming is a very popular activity all year
round in Iceland. Most towns and villages have
outdoor or indoor swimming pools filled with
water from natural hot springs. The mean
temperature of the water in the pools is about
29°C. In many places there are also saunas,
jacuzzis, solariums and hot pots with
temperatures ranging from 36 to 44°C.
Hreyfing heilsulind and Blue Lagoon spa
Alfheimar 74 • IS-104 Reykjavik
Tel.: +354-414-4000
E-mail: hreyfing@hreyfing.is
www.hreyfing.is • www.bluelagoonspa.is
TRANSPORTATION
How to get to Iceland by air
There are excellent transportation choices via
ICELANDAIR to Iceland and beyond from
North America. There are daily non-stop flights
to Reykjavik (Keflavik International Airport)
from Baltimore/Washington, Boston, New
York, Minneapolis and Orlando.
Approximate flight times from several cities:
Copenhagen, London, Frankfurt, Paris,
Amsterdam to Reykjavik..............approx: 3 hrs
New York, Boston, Baltimore,
Minneapolis to Reykjavik.........approx: 5–6 hrs
Icelandair maintains regular scheduled flights
to Iceland from the following cities:
All year: London, Glasgow, Copenhagen,
Manchester, Oslo, Paris, Stockholm,
Amsterdam, Frankfurt, Boston, Minneapolis,
New York, Orlando and Toronto (seasonal).
Summertime only: Barcelona, Bergen, Berlin,
Gothenburg, Halifax, Helsinki, Madrid, Milan
and Munich
Icelandair USA – 5950 Symphony Woods Road
Suite 410 • Columbia • Maryland 21044
Tel.: (1) 1-800-223-5500
E-mail: america@icelandair.is
37
www.icelandair.com
How to get to Iceland by sea
No scheduled passenger sea-link from North
America but many cruise lines make stops in
Iceland in their itineraries: Holland America
Line, Cunard, Seabourn Cruise Line, Crystal
Cruise, Silversea Cruise, Princess Cruise, Royal
Caribbean International, Orient Lines,
Abercrombie & Kent, Lindblad Special,
Expeditions, Euro Cruises.
www.icelandtouristboard.com
SMYRIL LINE: maintains a regular scheduled
cruise- and car-ferry service to Iceland from
Hanstholm in Denmark, Bergen in Norway,
 Scrabster in Scotland and Torshavn in the Laekjartorg, at the Tourist Information Center, Iceland Excursions – Gray Line Iceland Hertz Car Rental Hotel Raudaskrida Country hotel The Travel Section also offers packages, which
Faroe Islands. and on the Straeto website www.straeto.is. Hofdatun 12 • IS-105 Reykjavik Reykjavik Airport • IS-101 Reykjavik Hotel Reykjavik – Reykjavik Hotels consist of rental car and hostel overnight
Please contact the head office or see www. Tel.: +354-540-1313 • Fax: +354-540-1310 Tel.: +354-522 44 00 • Fax: +354-522 44 01 Hotel Tindastoll vouchers. The Travel Section is a central
The bus fare is 280 ISK and exact change is
smyril-line.com for further information on sales E-mail: iceland@grayline.is E-mail: hertz@hertz.is Hotel Thorshamar booking office for all Hostelling International
required. Transfers are available if you have to
offices and General Sales Agents abroad. www.icelandexcursions.is • www.grayline.is www.hertz.is • www.hertz.com Icelandair Hotel Fludir Hostels in Iceland for individuals and groups.
change buses. Ask for a transfer ticket
Smyril Line Head Office TREX – Travel Experiences Icelandair Hotel Hamar For further information see our brochure
(skiptimidi) which may be used on a second
J. Broncksgøta 37 • P.O. Box 370 Hesthals 10 • IS-110 Reykjavik Icelandair Hotel Herad “Hostelling in Iceland” or contact:
bus within a certain time limit (normally 45 ACCOMMODATION
FO 110 Torshavn • Faroe Islands Hafnarstraeti 77 • IS-600 Akureyri Icelandair Hotel Klaustur Hostelling International Iceland
minutes). The Reykjavik Tourist Card offers
Tel.: +298-345900 Tel.: +354-587-6000 • +354-461-1106 Metropolitan Hotel Sundlaugavegur 34 • IS-105 Reykjavik
unlimited bus travel for one, two or three days. Classification
Fax: +298-345950 / +298-345951 E-mail: info@trex.is • www.trex.is Park Inn Island Tel.: +354-553-8110 • Fax: +354-588-9201
All lodging facilities in Iceland have the Sel Hotel Myvatn
E-mail: booking@smyril-line.fo Domestic Transportation – Ferries E-mail: info@hostel.is • www.hostel.is
COACH HIRE: opportunity to be classified. The classification Sveinbjarnargerdi Sveitahotel
www.smyril-line.com Baldur Ferry For hiring of coaches contact the following: is voluntary and is divided into five categories, CAMPING: There are around 110 registered
Smidjustigur 3 • IS-340 Stykkisholmur Four stars:
Gudmundur Jonasson Ltd. i.e. 1, 2, 3, 4 or 5 stars, and is by no means an campsites in Iceland. Camping grounds are nor-
Domestic Transportation – by Air Tel.: +354-433-2254 • Fax: +354-438-1050 all-embracing assessment of the quality of the
CenterHotel Skjaldbreid
mally open from the beginning of June until the
Borgartun 34 • IS-105 Reykjavik Grand Hotel Reykjavik – Reykjavik Hotels
Air Iceland offers scheduled service to most E-mail: seatours@seatours.is • www.seatours.is accommodation in question. It is solely based end of August or middle of September depend-
Tel.: +354-511-1515 • Fax: +354-511-1511 Hilton Reykjavik Nordica
parts of the country. For further information on factors which can be objectively measured. ing on location. The price for camping in Ice-
Saefari Ferry – Landflutningar Samskip E-mail: gjtravel@gjtravel.is • www.gjtravel.is Hotel Borg – Keahotel
please contact the following: The grading consists of more than 100 land varies depending on facilities available or
Ranarbraut 2b • IS-620 Dalvik Hopbilar Hotel Kea – Keahotel
Air Iceland Tel.: +354-458-8970 • Fax: +354-458-8971 different items. from approx. USD 5–7. Travellers may set up
Melabraut 18 • 220 Hafnarfjordur Hotel Keflavik
Reykjavik Airport • IS-101 Reykjavik E-mail: landflutningar@landflutningar.is hiking tents for an overnight stay in Iceland.
Tel.: +354-599-6000 • Fax: +354-599-6001 The Icelandic Tourist Board is in charge of the Icelandair Hotel Flughotel
Tel.: +354-570-3030 • Fax: +354-570-3001 www.landflutningar.is/saefari/ • www.saefari.is However, the permission of the landowner or
hopbilar@hopbilar.is • www.hopbilar.is classification. Look for the blue-red sign placed Icelandair Hotel Loftleidir
E-mail: websales@airiceland.is other rights holders should be sought before
SBA – Nordurleid near the entrance which indicates the present Hotel Odinsve
www.airiceland.is • www.airiceland.dk Domestic Excursions and camping. Travellers are advised to use the des-
Hjalteyrargata 10 • IS-600 Akureyri classification of the facility. For further Hotel Ranga Allseason Hotels
ignated campsites where possible. A special ac-
INTERNET OFFERS: New internet offers every Transportation – by Bus Tel.: +354-550-0700 • 550-0770 information see www.visiticeland.com Hotel Reynihlid
commodation/camping brochure can be picked
week. There is an extensive bus service to most parts Fax: +354-550-0701 • 550-0771 Two stars: Radisson SAS Hotel Saga
up from tourist information centres. See also:
CHARTER SERVICE: Several air carriers offer of the country and to the highlands, as well as a E-mail: sba@sba.is • www.sba.is Fosshotel Sudurgata Radisson SAS 1919
large number of organized bus tours. Reserva- Camping card (Utilegukortid ehf)
charter service and sightseeing flights: Teitur Jonasson – Bus Rental Guesthouse Baldursbra
Free camp sites around Iceland
tions are not necessary and tickets can be
Dalvegur 22 • IS-201 Kopavogur Guesthouse Olafsvik Hotels and Guesthouses
Air Iceland Tel.: +354-552-4040 • www.campingcard.is
bought either at the bus station or from the Guesthouse Sigridur Hotels offer a pleasant European flavor and are
Reykjavik Airport • IS-101 Reykjavik Tel.: +354-515-2700 • Fax: +354-515-2707 E-mail: info@campingcard.is
driver. Children under 4 travel free of charge, Guesthouse Snorri of a high international standard. The price
Tel.: +354-570-3030 • Fax: +354-570-3001 E-mail: info@teitur.is • www.teitur.is
and half price is charged for children from 4–11. Hotel Edda Laugar in Saelingsdalur range would be USD 230 for a double room in
E-mail: websales@airiceland.is
EXCURSIONS: Hotel Edda Akureyri a first-class facility in high season to USD 70 for FOR YOUR SAEFTY
www.airiceland.is • www.airiceland.dk Domestic Transportation – Car
Hotel Edda Eidar a guesthouse, breakfast and taxes included.
Reykjavik Excursions Rentals Please take great care when visiting the natural
Hotel Edda IKI Laugarvatn Prices are generally lower in winter.
Domestic Transportation – Public bus Vesturvor 34 (head office) • IS-200 Kopavogur There are several car rental agencies in wonders of Iceland, such as geothermal areas,
Hotel Edda Laugarbakki
The capital area has an excellent bus system Tel.: +354-580-5400 • Fax: +354-564-4776 Iceland. Cars can be booked through a travel FARMHOUSE ACCOMMODATIONS: Iceland- waterfalls and glaciers. Always stay on defined
Hotel Edda M.L. Laugarvatn
(Straeto). Most buses run every 20 minutes E-mail: main@re.is • www.re.is agent or an airline, at airports or directly after ic Farm Holidays is a association/chain of paths and/or within safe distance.
Hotel Edda Egilsstadir
during the week, and every 30 minutes in the arrival in Iceland. Many types of cars are around 140 farms around Iceland. The mem- NOTE: Prices are subject to change. All efforts
Hotel Edda Isafjordur
evening and on weekends. Bus information is available, from small family cars to powerful 4- bers are farmers who offer accommodation in have been made to verify that information in
Hotel Edda Nesjaskoli
available at the bus stations at Hlemmur and wheel-drive vehicles. their homes, guesthouses, country hotels and this brochure is correct as of June 15, 2008.
Hotel Edda Neskaupstadur
cottages. Travellers can choose from Bed and The lists of services are not always complete.
Vik Selfoss Reykjavik Borgarnes Isafjordur Akureyri Egilsstadir Hofn Hotel Edda Skogar
breakfast in rooms with shared or private facili-
Driving Distances Hotel Edda Storutjarnir For further information go to
Km Miles Km Miles Km Miles Km Miles Km Miles Km Miles Km Miles Km Miles ties or sleeping bag accommodation. The Ice-
Hotel Gigur – Kea Hotel www.icelandtouristboard.com
Akranes 220 / 132 91 / 57 49 / 30 38 / 24 422 / 262 353 / 219 617 / 383 493 / 306 landic Tourist Board approves the classification
Hotel Harpa – Keahotel
Akureyri 561 / 349 432 / 259 389 / 242 315 / 196 567 / 352 265 / 165 512 / 318 system used by the Icelandic Farm Holidays as-
Inns of Iceland – Floki Inn
Blonduos 416 / 259 287 / 178 244 / 152 170 / 106 423 / 263 145 / 90 410 / 255 657 / 408 sociation. Among the various activities offered
The Old Guesthouse Isafjordur
Borgarnes 246 / 153 117 / 73 74 / 46 384 / 239 315 / 196 580 / 360 519 / 323 by the farmers are: horseback riding, fishing,
Budardalur (Snaefellsnes) 326 / 203 197 / 122 154 / 96 80 / 50 304 / 189 281 / 175 546 / 339 599 / 372 Three stars: hiking, golf, hunting and ATV-tours. Icelandic
Egilsstadir 511 / 318 640 / 398 698 / 434 580 / 360 832 / 517 265 / 165 247 / 153 CenterHotel Klopp Farm Holidays is also a licensed travel agent
Grindavik (Blue Lagoon) 230 / 143 101 / 63 52 / 32 120 / 75 504 / 313 435 / 270 700 / 435 503 / 313 Country Hotel Anna offering guided group tours, individual travel
38 Gullfoss
Hella
176
93
/
/
109
58
71
36
/
/
44
22
125
94
/
/
78
58
184
153
/
/
114
95
569
537
/
/
354
334
499
468
/
/
310
291
687
604
/
/
427
375
449
366
/
/
279
227
Fosshotel Baron
Fosshotel Husavik
and self-drive tours. For further information 39
and bookings see the brochure “The Ideal Hol-
Hveragerdi 141 / 88 12 / 7 45 / 28 115 / 71 499 / 310 430 / 267 652 / 405 414 / 257 Fosshotel Lind iday – Icelandic Farm Holidays” or contact:
Husavik 652 / 405 523 / 325 480 / 298 406 / 252 659 / 409 91 / 57 220 / 137 467 / 290 Fosshotel Reykholt
Icelandic Farm Holidays
Hofn 273 / 170 402 / 250 459 / 285 519 / 233 902 / 560 512 / 319 247 / 153 Fosshotel Vatnajokull
Sidumuli 2 • IS-108 Reykjavik
Isafjordur 630 / 391 500 / 311 457 / 284 384 / 239 567 / 352 832 / 517 922 / 573 Guesthouse Stadarskali Country hotel
Kirkjubaejarklaustur 71 / 44 201 / 125 258 / 160 318 / 198 702 / 436 633 / 393 440 / 273 201 / 125
Tel.: +354-570-2700 • Fax: +354-570-2799
Hotel Bjork – Keahotel
Laugarvatn 169 / 105 39 / 24 93 / 58 153 / 95 538 / 334 468 / 291 680 / 423 441 / 274 E-mail: ifh@farmholidays.is
Hotel Borgarnes
Myvatn 660 / 410 531 / 330 488 / 303 414 / 257 667 / 414 99 / 62 165 / 103 412 / 256 www.farmholidays.is
Hotel Edda Plus Akureyri
Reykjavik 187 / 116 57 / 35 74 / 46 457 / 284 389 / 242 698 / 434 459 / 285 Hotel Edda Plus Laugar in Saelingsdalur HOSTELS: There are 26 Hostelling
Saudarkrokur 492 / 306 362 / 225 319 / 198 246 / 153 498 / 309 119 / 74 384 / 239 631 / 392 Hotel Edda Plus Vik i Myrdal International Hostels around Iceland, open to As described in more detail in the
Skogar 35 / 22 94 / 58 151 / 94 221 / 137 605 / 376 536 / 333 546 / 339 308 / 191
Hotel Fron people of all ages. They offer budget Practical Information section of this
Skaftafell 141 / 88 270 / 168 327 / 203 387 / 240 771 / 479 639 / 397 374 / 232 136 / 85
Hotel Hellissandur accommodations in clean and comfortable brochure, Iceland has a classification
Stykkisholmur 345 / 214 215 / 134 172 / 107 98 / 61 390 / 242 363 / 226 628 / 390 617 / 383 lodgings with self-service, so travelers can system for accommodation. Star
Hotel Hofn
Vik in Myrdalur 129 / 80 187 / 116 246 / 153 630 / 391 561 / 349 511 / 318 273 / 170 keep traveling costs to a minimum. All the ratings are included in the listings and
Hotel Isafjordur
Thingvellir 174 / 108 45 / 28 49 / 30 95 / 59 479 / 298 410 / 255 675 / 419 447 / 278 advertisements where available.
Hotel Natur hostels have a well-equipped guest kitchen
Thorlakshofn 157 / 98 28 / 17 51 / 32 110 / 68 494 / 307 425 / 264 668 / 415 430 / 391
Hotel Nordurland – Keahotel and family rooms. The Travel Section arranges
Weather Information: Tel.: (+ 354) 902-0600, ext. 44 — Web: vedur.is/english Emergency tel: 112 Hotel Olafsvik Hring Hotels travels in Iceland and provides different tours.
 ESSO Service Station
Icelandair’s transatlantic route network

Whale watching
ICELAND IS MORE THAN PRISTINE COUNTRY. IT’S A LIFESTYLE. ICELAND NATURALLY, A
COHORT OF ICELANDIC COMPANIES AND ORGANIZATIONS, CELEBRATES THIS LIFESTYLE
AND INVITES YOU TO GET A TASTE FOR YOURSELF. FEEL. EAT. DRINK. HEAL. BREATHE.

Mountain Track
66º NORTH / www.66north.com/us

Ferries
Since 1926, 66° North has been a leading innovator and producer of working clothes for
sea and land, and has for the last decade successfully leveraged its expertise into outdoor
clothing for sports and leisure.

Other Road
Village
BLUE LAGOON / www.bluelagoon.com
Blue Lagoon brings the unique benefits of the Blue Lagoon geothermal seawater, known
for healing power and active ingredients, that can be enjoyed at the Blue Lagoon Bath,

Ring Road
Clinic and through Blue Lagoon skin care.

Town
GLITNIR / www.glitnirbank.com
With operations in ten countries, Glitnir is a growing banking group with strong

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foundations in the Nordic market. Glitnir focuses on three special niches in international
markets: seafood, sustainable energy and offshore service vessels.

ICELANDAIR / www.icelandair.com and www.icelandair.ca

Icelandair, the flag carrier of Iceland, links North America to Iceland and many exciting
destinations throughout mainland Europe.

Thingvellir
Thorsmork
ICELANDIC AGRICULTURE / www.skyr.is and www.bondi.is
You can find delicious Icelandic agricultural products, such as skyr, cheeses, lamb, butter
and chocolate, produced in a sustainable way on small family farms, in various fine dining

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restaurants and Whole Foods Markets.

ICELANDIC USA / www.icelandic.com

Icelandic® USA, Inc. has for over 60 years defined world-class innovation and quality in

Vestmannaeyjar
the seafood industry. Icelandic® specializes in the production and distribution of frozen

Reynisdrangar
fish fillets and value-added processed seafood products in North America. Its legendary

Skogafoss
Reykholar

Skaftafell
Icelandic® Brand is marketed to both foodservice and retail/club stores.

Skalholt
ICELAND SPRING WATER / www.icelandspring.com
Imported from the pristine mountains of Iceland, Iceland Spring is the purest bottled water

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F3
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available in today’s market. With its naturally high pH, low mineral content, and its
remarkably pure and refreshing taste, Iceland Spring’s purity is unmatched.

LEIFUR EIRIKSSON AIR TERMINAL / www.airport.is/english

Mt. Herdubreid
The gateway for most passenger and air-freight flights to and from Iceland. The terminal is

Mt. Kirkjufell
Mt. Snaefell
open 24 hours a day at Keflavik Airport, and all retail sale and services are duty and tax-free.

Mt. Dyrfjoll

Namaskard
Myvatn
REYKA VODKA / www.reykavodka.com
The first vodka distilled in Iceland, Reyka Vodka is made from the purest of waters and
filtered through lava rock, giving it a characteristically Icelandic flavor.

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ICELANDIC GLACIAL / www.icelandicglacial.com
Iceland has one of the cleanest environments in the world. It is also home to the legendary,

Kirkjubaejarklaustur
naturally replenishing Olfus Spring, where Icelandic Glacial – the first Carbon Neutral bottled

Jokulsa-canyon
water – is sourced with care to protect our planet.

Krisuvikurberg
Jokulsarlon

Latrabjarg
LANDSVIRKJUN / www.landsvirkjun.com

Krisuvik
Landsvirkjun is the largest electricity producer in Iceland. The company’s electricity production
is totally based on renewable and emission-free hydropower and geothermal energy.
Summer visitors in Iceland can visit Landsvirkjun's power stations around the country to learn
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C2 about green electricity and experience various art and cultural exhibitions.

VISIT REYKJAVIK / www.visitreykjavik.is

Visit Reykjavík and experience the pure energy of Iceland's capital city – whether from
Index to Tourist Attractions

the boiling thermal energy underground, the natural green energy within the city and
Hljodaklettar

Hornstrandir

around it, or the lively culture and fun-filled nightlife.

Hvitserkur
Gullfoss
Hellnar

Holar

THE TRADE COUNCIL OF ICELAND / www.icetrade.is

The Trade Council of Iceland aids Icelandic companies in selling products, services, and
know-how in the global marketplace. With specialties in areas like information services,
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training and consulting, market development and investing, the Trade Council of Iceland offers
professional expertise in these areas in both Iceland and at Icelandic Embassies abroad.
800 m

400 m

100 m

0m

Blue Lagoon

Dyrholaey

Godafoss
Dettifoss
Asbyrgi

Geysir

PURE. NATURAL. UNSPOILED.

 MINNEAPOLIS / HELSINKI
ST. PAUL
STOCKHOLM
OSLO
ICELAND BERGEN GOTHENBURG
TORONTO COPENHAGEN
REYKJAVIK BERLIN
FRANKFURT
GLASGOW AMSTERDAM
BOSTON MANCHESTER MUNICH
ORLANDO NEW YORK
SANFORD JFK LONDON MILAN
PARIS
HALIFAX

BARCELONA
MADRID

ICELANDAIR
YOUR NATURAL CHOICE

Icelandair is the clear choice when comparing our low prices and distinguished service with
other airlines.
Our unique route system is structured around the mid-Atlantic hub airport in Keflavik, Iceland,
and offers convenient and efficient flight options from North America to Scandinavia, Great
Britain and Continental Europe.
Only Icelandair offers competitive rates to Europe with the option to stopover in Iceland for
up to seven nights at no additional airfare.

Icelandair's new state-of-the-art seats offer

increased comfort and legroom and in-flight
entertainment, including top-of-the-line movie
choices, music and real time information. WWW.ICELANDAIR.COM