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South Coast Exploration - IMG490
Photo:  Jean Christophe Bechet
Get a head start on planning your summer adventure in Iceland by taking advantage of our selected multi-day tour special offers. Until January 10th, 2017 you will be able to save up to 35.000 ISK (appr. 300 USD or 295 Euros).
If you book before January 10th, you will also be in the draw of an Icelandic Mountain Guides day tour from Reykjavik. For every 20 bookings we will draw one winner, which gives you a good chance of winning.
The prize/day tour cannot be exchanged for cash and has to be used with 3 years from January 10th 2017. The winner will be contacted directly and announced on mountainguides.is at the latest on January 20th 2017.
We reserve the right to cancel or amend the competition and these terms and conditions without notice in any event outside of our control.
Tour type: Hiking tour with camping
Adult: 90.000ISK GBP USD DKR EUR
What's included: Guide, food for 3 days, transportation, tent accommodation in Skaftafell, mattresses, cooking gear.
Meeting point: The tour starts in Höfn and ends in Reykjavik.
Group size: 6 to 15 participants
Language: English and French
Highlights of the Tour
Arctic Birch and Waterfalls
East Iceland Trekking are tours that combine some of the best hiking and sights of east and southeast Iceland. They are made up of three parts that each has its own characteristics and charm. They all have in common stunning landscapes and variety in color. You will hike over green hills and between small coves, venture into one of Iceland ‘s most remote wildernesses and visit a world of glaciers and ice. With the three different parts, you may choose one section of the trek, combine two or three parts, or hike the whole East Iceland Trekking tour from the deserted farmland of the eastern coves, through the wilderness east of Vatnajökull glacier and to Skaftafell.
Many of the highlights of Iceland are to be found in the South-East region. It is the home of Iceland’s largest glacier Vatnajökull whose countless outlet glaciers come crawling down between high mountain peaks. The icebergs that break off the glaciers decorate the lagoons that form at their roots. In Skaftafell you find the contrast in green hills and waterfalls. There we can explore one of the many hiking trails that take us through the arctic birch to places where we get superb views of the surrounding glaciers. This tour offers the possibility to add a Glacier Walk on Svínafellsjökull to you program or a hike up to Iceland’s highest peak, Hvannadalshnúkur (2119 m).  On the way back to Reykjavík we will stop at the black beaches of Vík and look at the waterfalls of the south coast. We spend our nights in tents at the camping area in Skaftafell.
Included: Guide for 3 days,food during the tour (breakfast (2), lunch (3), dinner (2)): Transportation:  Public bus  from Höfn to Skaftafell and Skaftafell to Reykjavík. Accommodation: Tent accommodation in Skaftafell (tents and matresses provided - 2 nights)
Note: This tour can be combined with the tour In the Shadow of Vatnajökull IMG49 or as the last part of the East Iceland Hiking IMG349.
Meet up with the guide and the rest of your group in the evening. Contact us if you need transport to Höfn.
D1: Höfn - Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon – Vatnajökull National Park Skaftafell
In the morning we get on the public scheduled bus that leaves from Höfn to the Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon. There we find the famous lake, decorated with floating icebergs that have broken off the big glacier of Vatnajökull. It is possible to go on a boat tour between the icebergs (not included) or take a short walk along the shores of the lagoon. We then head on to Skaftafell where we will explore the footpaths of Vatnajökull National Park. Skaftafell is a green oasis where arctic birch and small flowers grow between the glaciers and the coast, and you get a view of Iceland‘s highest peak Hvannadalshnúkur (2110 m). Night in a tent at the camping in Skaftafell.
Hiking: 4-5 h total
D2: Vatnajökull National Park Skaftafell
A full day of hiking in the National Park where there are many possibilities for hiking. We can hike up to the woods of Bæjastaðarskógur, the valley of Morsárdalur, or up to the peaks of Kristínartindar where we have superb views of the glaciers tongues falling down from some of the highest mountains in Iceland. On this day there is also possible to sign up for either of these additional activities:
Ascension of the highest peak in Iceland Hvanndalshnúkur or the mont Hrútfjallstindar (price 38.610 Isk). Please note that the hike is physically very challenging and takes up to 12-14 hours.
A Glacier Walk on Svínafellsjökull, either 2 hour tour (price 9.810 ISK) or 4 hour tour (14.310 ISK). On both tours you will see a variety of glacier formations as you walk between water cauldrons, crevasses and strangely shaped ridges.
At the end of the day we return to you camp in Skaftafell, night in a tent.
D3: Vík - The waterfalls of Skógarfoss and Seljalandsfoss – Reykjavík
We get on the public scheduled bus heading for Reykjavík. On the way we stop in Vík for a walk on the black sand beach that is dominated by coastal cliffs and rocks that rise up from the ocean. We will also make short stops at the waterfalls of Skógarfoss and Seljalandsfoss where you can walk behind the cascading water. Arrival in Reykjavík in the late afternoon/early evening.
What is a Trekking tour?
On a IMG Trekking tour all the overnight gear it transported from one camp-site/hut to the next. You will only need to carry your daypack during each day’s hike.  This is a comfortable and light weight option for hiking. Some Trekking tours have hut accommodation with communal sleeping spaces while others have tents (1 – 2 persons) and a mess tent for group meals, cooking and socializing.
Sturdy hiking boots with good ankle support. Leather or synthetic with a waterproof membrane, e.g. Gore-Tex. Make sure they are a good fit, leaving some space for your toes – and wear them in, even if it is just by light hiking in the city.
Jacket with a good hood (wind and waterproof)
A good “hard-shell” jacket with a large protective hood. Gore-Tex membrane or similar to keep you dry. Make sure it is not too tight and that you can fit insulation underneath. Note that a soft-shell jacket is a great addition but will not replace a good waterproof hard-shell when you really, really need one! Good rain-gear – tops and bottoms are mandatory on all IMG tours.
Hard shell pants (wind and waterproof)
Ideally the hard-shell-pants should be lightweight – as they will be in your backpack most of the time. If they have zip-up legs to ease getting into it is a big bonus. Make sure they are breathable and strong enough to take some abuse from walking.  We often see cheap rain pants disintegrate during the tour.  Gore-Tex or similar waterproof breathing membrane is appropriate. Good rain gear – tops and bottoms are mandatory on all IMG tours.
A thin base layer (next to skin). The most popular is merino wool – comfortable to wear for multiple days without the smell of synthetic materials. Most people should be fine with the same merino shirt on for 2 – 3 days on harder tours where weight matters. Having short and long sleeve is great for adjusting to different weather conditions.  Women might want a sports bra as a part of their base layer. Cotton t-shirts are not advisable for any strenuous outdoor activity.
A fleece jacket would the classical insulating layer. Wool would also be a good option. Here it is also possible to layer up – two thin jackets or a jacket and a vest rather than one very thick jacket. A thicker base-layer for colder days could also be a part of adjustable layering.
Soft shell is strong and durable, wind resistant and quick drying – ideal for any outdoor activity. Some might consider a thin base-layer (long-johns) for extra insulation on colder days.  Jeans and other cotton pants are not advisable for any outdoor activity.
ME Compressor Hooded Jacket PrimaLoft
A nice light puffy is great during brakes. The insulation could be down or synthetics (such as Primaloft). It should not be very big or bulky for summer time use. Synthetic insulation is preferred as it keeps most of its insulating properties also when wet but down is also a good option.  A puffy vest would also be a good option.
Hands, feet and head:
Gloves: A light pair of fleece or wool gloves or mittens does the job. You can also take a pair of ski-gloves or other wind and waterproof shell gloves. Having an extra pair is recommended, and then of different thickness.
Socks: Wool is definitely the preferred material for hiking socks. Different blends are available. If you are prone to blisters or have new boots you should consider wearing a thin liner sock underneath your hiking socks. Make sure you have a few pairs of socks to keep your feet dry and in good conditions.
Warm hat: A normal ski-hat/beanie is perfect. You could also use a thick buff. An extra a buff is also nice to have, you can use it to protect your neck and face when needed or as a thinner option for a hat.
Casual clothes / change of clothes
Once in the hut it is good to be able to change out of your trekking gear. Even if we do not like you to wear jeans during the hike you are welcome to wear them in the hut/tent in the evening - same with a cotton T-shirt. If it is could a warm jumper or an extra fleece jacket is always nice. Few pairs of comfy socks and some fresh underwear.  Avoid bringing too much extra clothing – life in the mountains is simple and nice, so one pair of extra pants, warm jumper and a few t-shirts and briefs should do the job just fine. Light sneakers and slippers for indoor use will feel great at the end of the day.
A baseball cap or a comfortable hat with brim is great to have and is useful both in sunny and rainy weather. You should also have a nice pair of sunglasses and some sun-bloc – SPF 15-25 should be enough protection for most.  If you plan to be playing on snow covers summits you should bring a pair of quality sunglasses for mountaineering SPF 30 – 50 sunblock.
Love Alpine AirZone Trek 30L
You will need a nice daypack to carry your extra clothes, river crossing shoes, food and water for the day. Having a compartment for smaller items like sun screen and sunglasses is also good. The pack will never be heavy, but a bit of padding on the shoulder- and hip straps/belt with a buckle is good. Unless you have some bulky personal needs, like photographic equipment, then you should be fine with 20-30L (1200 - 2000 cu in).
ME Wet & Dry bag
On many of our tours your overnight gear is going to be transported from hut-to-hut / camp-to-camp and space is limited. We therefore ask you to pack your gear in a soft bag rather than a regular hard suite case, since this is more space-efficient. A 60 - 80L bag should be more than enough for all your extra kit including a sleeping bag.  If it is reasonably waterproof that is a big plus.
There are plenty of different products available for storing your equipment inside your pack and keeping it dry. A rain cover over your pack often has limited use due to high winds– a safer option is to pack whatever needs to be kept dry into dry-bags inside your back-pack. It is also a great way to organize the inside of your pack. One bag for electronics (camera and phone) and one bag for extra clothing, as an example. Note that dry-bags were out and might not be as dry as they were when you first bought them.
An old pair of running shoes will do just fine. Closed hiking sandals or neoprene kayaking shoes will also work great.  Any quick drying shoe with a good sole that can be securely attached to the foot will do. Loose slippers, flip-flops etc. are not acceptable.
A good addition to your river crossing shoes are neoprene socks – see Neoprene socks.
Black Diamond Trekking / hiking poles
One or two poles are nice to have. Some trekkers like to use them all the time, other use them only during river crossings or on steep ups and downs. If you like them, make sure that they are foldable and light weight. A small basket is also nice.
The mountain-huts during the summer are usually warm, although most are not heated during the night. Any old sleeping bag will therefore do, unless you get cold easily. For temperature control having a full length zipper is the best. A liner bag is also a very nice addition and will improve your ability to regulate your head during the night.  If you are doing a winter hut trip or summer camping a 3 season sleeping bag would be sufficient. All the huts we use have mattresses on the beds so no need to bring your own for huts.
Camping in the arctic summer can be cold. A good quality sleeping bag is essential. Due to the favourable weight-to-warmth ratio down sleeping bags is most people’s choice. Consider a 3 season sleeping bag unless you are a very warm sleeper. Note that the pack volume of your sleeping bag should affect the size of your backpack.  Bear in mind also that temperature rating on sleeping bags are an inexact science, and you may need a heavier or lighter bag than the climate you are headed out to. Consider a liner bag for comfort, temperature regulation and to lengthen the lifetime of your sleeping bag.
Water container / thermos flask
In Iceland & Greenland you can drink from any stream, no filters, no iodine or chlorine! It is good to have a small water bottle at hand. A 1L bottle should be plenty as water is easily found all over. If you are a warm drinker we will be happy to fill up your thermos in the morning and a selection of teas will be available (very dedicated tea drinkers often bring an emergency stash of their favourite brand). Cold drinkers might like to bring their favoured powdered flavouring/vitamin/energy drink.
Even though the summer night is bright the inside of the hut/tent might not be. A headlamp is also useful for a bit of reading. There are plenty of options available for LED head lamps that are just perfect for reading and getting around. A small flash-light will also do the job. Most LED headlamps have more than enough light for our purposes and the battery life is so good that one set will do for your trip.
The guides on our tours will have a first aid kit available. It is still nice to have some small items to be self-sufficient with minor things. Band-Aid, Compeed for blisters, pain killers and/or anti-inflammatory drugs.
Make sure to have all your prescription medication with you, if you have any medical condition that could in any way affect you during the trip make sure to let your guide know. For those suffering from allergies having antihistamine is advisable – or any other medication that works for your condition. Items for personal hygiene should also be included, having a small bar of soap handy or some liquid hand soap is a good idea. Toothbrush, toothpaste and dental-floss should be packed. Avoid liquid antiperspirant and glass containers due to risks of spilling. Feminine products like pads, tampons etc. should also be packed if needed. If you take vitamins or other supplements you should continue to do so during your holiday.
In most cases you are sharing sleeping facilities with one or more fellow travellers – so a pair of good ear-plugs can ensure a good night sleep. Those not used to the bright summer might also like to bring an eye mask.  Contact lenses, lens liquid etc. Pack shampoo, conditioner and shower gel in small plastic bottles that close tight.
A big towel is nice to have – especially if you are taking a bath in one of the natural hot-pools.
Bathing in the natural hot-pools will be one of the highlights of your trip in Iceland (depending on the tour). Make sure you come dressed for the occasion. There are no specific rules, written or unwritten on how to dress or not to dress; board shorts, speedos, bikinis or bathing suits – anything goes. Quick drying is good.
It is really nice to have a small thermal mattress to sit on during lunch break and other stops.  It should not be big, just enough to sit on. And it should fold up nicely so it does not get in the way inside your pack.
For summer time use you should normally not need gaiters as they are designed to keep snow from getting into your boots. Some like them also for scree slopes. Keep in mind that the volcanic soil in Iceland is very abrasive so you will want to be able to remove the strap that goes under your boot sole to keep it from getting trashed.
Other cool things to have
Book – to read during the evenings.
Music - and head phones. Some of our guides also have speakers with them to share Icelandic music.
Diary or note-book – to write down your good memories from Iceland. Also a pen or pencil.
Power-bank / extra battery for your electronics – small solar cells usually do not work that well in Iceland so a pre charged power bank is a better option.  Charging your electronics in huts in the highlands often is not an option or will cost you extra. Having converters adapters for 220 V will help.
Playing cards and travel games – or other toys you might like and can travel.
Cash – in mountain huts shower normally costs about 500 ISK and work on 100kr coins.
Travel pillow – as long as it is not very bulky, otherwise you can just use your clothes.
Powder drink mix – Good water is never a problem – but you might like a bit of variety. Some also contain vitamins and minerals that help your body after a hard day.
Shorts - It does get warm enough to wear shorts. They are also nice for sleeping in, in case you need to get out in the night. For hiking it is nice to have some pockets, for the items that other ways would be in the pockets of you pants. But any old pair of shorts will do.
Aperitif of other heart-warming spirits
Aperitif of other heart-warming spirits - Liquor laws in Iceland prohibit the sale of alcohol in most places you come by on your trip in the highlands and limited opening hours stop you from buying any most other places unless you are staying in a hotel. So having a flask (preferably plastic or metal) to share with your fellow travels in front of the camp fire (gas heater) can be the crowning of a good day. You can take care of this in the duty-free up on arrival in Iceland if you like. Just follow all the Icelanders on your flight – they will take you straight to duty-free!
On trips to Greenland you can take care of this in the duty-free up on arrival in Iceland. Duty free in Kulusuk, Greenland does not sell high % spirits – but if you make it to the supermarket they will have beer.
Gear shopping in Iceland
Already in Iceland and need to grab some extra gear? No worries. There are a few shops in Reykjavík to go to (remember to ask for a VAT refund slip when you buy over 5000ISK, saving 14%):
Íslensku Alparnir: http://alparnir.is/  this is where IMG gets its Mountain Equipment gear, much of with is featured on the pictures above – can’t go wrong there.
GG-Sjósport: http://www.gummibatar.is/ grate products, but not in the down town.
Laugavegur: the main shopping street down town has a few stores, including some local brands like 66°North and Cintamany.
Kringlan & Smáralind are the indoor shopping centers in Iceland – both have outdoor stores – and they are open on Sundays and till 21:00 on Thursdays.
For your own wellbeing and safety, we strongly suggest following the advice of our equipment list, this includes having good quality rain-gear, tops and bottoms!  Also respect that cotton clothing is not appropriate for any strenuous outdoor activity – this includes jeans and t-shirts. Modern outdoor clothing is by far more comfortable and will greatly improve your experience.
Should you have any questions regarding this equipment list or the equipment on our tours feel free to contact incoming@mountainguides.is.
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Children0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9
Infants (0-2)0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9
Tour DatesSelect departure date 12.07.2017 - Confirmed Departure 26.07.2017 - Confirmed Departure 09.08.2017 - Confirmed Departure 23.08.2017 - Confirmed Departure 30.08.2017 - Confirmed Departure
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South Coast Exploration - IMG490
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