Under the Northern Lights: Exploring Iceland & East Greenland

Under the Northern Lights: Exploring Iceland & East Greenland

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14 Days From

$14395

$12236

Under the Northern Lights: Exploring Iceland & East Greenland

14 Days Starting and ending in Reykjavik, Iceland

Visiting: Reykjavik, Iceland, Reykjavik, Iceland - Embark, Westfjords, Iceland, At Sea, Northwest Greenland

Tour operator:

Intrepid Travel

Tour code:

BQMY

Guide Type:

Fully Guided

Group size:

1 - 199

Physical rating:

Low

Age range:

8-99

Trip Styles:

Expedition Cruising

Activities:

Hiking

From: $14395 $12236 (USD) Operator discount: -$2159 -15%

NB: Prices correct on 18-Jan-2025 but subject to change.

This tour is no longer available, please see similar tours below or send an enquiry

Tour Overview

Embark on an unforgettable journey with "Under the Northern Lights: Exploring Iceland & East Greenland." This expedition takes you from Reykjavik into the heart of the Arctic, where you'll search for iconic wildlife such as polar bears, muskoxen, whales, and seals, guided by onboard experts. Marvel at the dramatic landscapes of Iceland's oldest region and the enchanting Northern Lights. Experience the raw beauty of East Greenland as you hike the tundra, visit an Inuit community, and explore breathtaking fjords. Cruise in a Zodiac for unique onshore adventures and immerse yourself in the icy Arctic realm with optional kayaking. Your adventure includes 12 nights aboard the Ultramarine expedition ship and a night in a comfortable hotel, all operated by Quark Expeditions. This is a rare opportunity to explore the Arctic's untouched wilderness and vibrant cultures.

Highlights

  • Search for iconic Arctic wildlife like polar bears, muskoxen, whales, and seals.

  • Marvel at the dramatic sea and landscapes of Iceland's oldest region and possibly see the Northern Lights.

  • Hike the tundra, visit an Inuit community, and explore a breathtaking fjord system in East Greenland.

  • Cruise in a Zodiac to explore diverse landscapes and make onshore landings for unique adventures.

  • Immerse yourself in the icy realm of the Arctic with optional kayaking adventures to see icebergs up close.

Itinerary

Expand All

Day 1: Reykjavik, Iceland

Location: Reykjavik, Iceland

Accommodation Name: Hotel

Welcome to Iceland! When you arrive in Reykjavik, Iceland’s capital, make your way to your hotel for a free afternoon and evening. You can arrive at any time, as you have the full day at leisure to settle in and explore the city at your own pace.

Day 2: Reykjavik, Iceland - Embark

Location: Reykjavik, Iceland - Embark

Accommodation Name: Expedition Cruise Ship

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

After breakfast at your hotel, enjoy a free morning in Reykjavik before your transfer to the ship this afternoon. When you arrive at the port, you’ll embark and be introduced to your Expedition Team. Then, set sail for the Westfjords.

Day 3: Westfjords, Iceland

Location: Westfjords, Iceland

Accommodation Name: Expedition Cruise Ship

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Each region of Iceland has its own appeal for nature, bird and history lovers, and the little-visited Vestfjords (Westfjords), where the land meets the sea in the most dramatic fashion, is no exception. Often referred to as ‘Iceland’s best kept secret,’ this rugged peninsula at the country’s remote northwestern tip is rife with fjords and mountains sloping down to the sea in impossibly beautiful ways. You’ll spend the day exploring the fjords and shores of Iceland’s oldest region, enjoying its kaleidoscope of diverse land and seascapes. Here, tumbling cliffs and gushing waterfalls alternate with colorful beaches, and rolling green hills that lead up to high moorlands dotted with rocky outcrops, small lakes and the occasional shaggy Icelandic sheep or horse grazing in the distance. A few little outposts of civilization, small fishing communities are nestled on fjord edges and the shores of the Denmark Strait, facing out into the mighty Atlantic and toward East Greenland—keeping alive a maritime heritage going back to the Viking days.

Day 4: At Sea

Location: At Sea

Accommodation Name: Expedition Cruise Ship

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

As you sail southwest across the Denmark Strait towards Greenland, your Expedition Team will prepare you for the exciting adventures ahead, both on and off-ship. Your team of polar experts will present on a wide range of topics, including the geology, wildlife, climatology and enthralling history of Greenland. The team will also search for (and identify) the seabirds soaring about the ship, also alerting you whenever there’s a whale sighting.

Day 5-12: Northwest Greenland

Location: Northwest Greenland

Accommodation Name: Expedition Cruise Ship

During your exploration of Greenland’s remote northeast coast, you’ll head out on daily (weather dependent) Zodiac cruises and shore visits to several locations. Keep an eye out for grazing muskoxen, as 40 per cent of the world’s population lives in Northeast Greenland National Park! Sailing through spectacular Scoresby Sund, the birthplace of many icebergs, you’ll immediately see why some say it’s the most beautiful fjord system on the planet. Sites such as Frederiksdal and Sydkap offer opportunities to explore the colourful tundra and the remains of ancient Thule settlements. At the entrance of the sound is East Greenland’s most northerly community – Ittoqqortoormiit – where you may spend time interacting with the Inuit people and learning about their way of life. You may also have a chance to see the northern lights here if the skies are clear. Deeper in the sound, Rode O is perfect for admiring the beauty of sky-blue icebergs set against striking red sandstone cliffs. Magnificent vistas also await at Kong Oscar Fjord, with possible landings at Ella O – renowned for its rugged cliffs and flower-rich Botanikerbugt on Ymer O.

Day 13: At Sea

Location: At Sea

Accommodation Name: Expedition Cruise Ship

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

As your Arctic adventure winds down, take in a presentation by your onboard experts, share your photos, sip an icy cocktail in the bar or watch a movie – there are many activities available during your time at sea. Your Expedition Team will also be on hand to answer any questions and point out wildlife.

Day 14: Reykjavik, Iceland

Location: Reykjavik, Iceland

Meals Included: Breakfast

After breakfast, transfer independently to the Keflavik International Airport for your onward journey home. If you’d like to extend your time here, just speak to your booking agent ahead of time.

What's Included

  • Arctic Wildlife Sightings

    Search for iconic Arctic wildlife like polar bears, muskoxen, whales, and seals with the help of onboard experts.

  • Scenic Exploration

    Marvel at the dramatic sea and landscapes of Iceland’s oldest region and potentially see the Northern Lights.

  • Tundra Hiking and Inuit Community Visit

    Hike the tundra, visit an Inuit community, and explore a breathtaking fjord system in East Greenland.

  • Zodiac Cruising

    Cruise in a Zodiac to explore diverse landscapes and make onshore landings for unique adventures.

  • Optional Kayaking Adventures

    Immerse yourself in the Arctic with optional kayaking adventures to see icebergs up close.

  • Transport

    Travel by ship and Zodiac during the tour.

  • Voyage Operator

    The voyage is operated by Quark Expeditions, including all accommodation and transfer arrangements.

What's Not Included

  • Additional Adventure Options

    Kayaking, Day paddle, and Tundra to Table: Inuit Culinary Experience are available at an additional cost and must be booked prior to departure.

  • Booking Conditions

    A deposit of 25% is required at the time of booking, with balances due 120 days prior to departure.

Mode of Transport

Travel by ship and Zodiac, offering a unique and adventurous way to explore the diverse landscapes and make onshore landings.

Accommodation

Enjoy 12 nights aboard an expedition ship and 1 night in a comfortable hotel, providing a cozy and convenient base for your Arctic adventure.

Important Information

This trip is onboard the Ultramarine ship.This trip starts and finishes in Reykjavic, IcelandYour voyage is operated by our polar partner, Quark Expeditions. All accommodation and transfer arrangements as listed in the itinerary are also operated by Quark Expeditions or their local representatives.BOOKING CONDITIONSTo confirm your reservation, a deposit of 25% (unless indicated otherwise at time of booking) of the total invoice amount is required at time of booking. Balances are due 120 days prior to departure.Please refer to the "Booking terms and conditions" page on our website for all Quark Expedition terms and conditions, http://www.intrepidtravel.com/booking-intrepid/booking-conditionsADVENTURE OPTIONSKayaking, Day paddle and Tundra to Table: Inuit Culinary Experience are available to book on this trip. Some activities must be booked prior to departure and incurs an additional cost. Spaces are limited so please enquire at time of booking. Some previous, recent experience is essential for kayaking. Flight seeing is also offered on some itineraries. This activity is at no additional cost and does not need to be pre-booked.

Check out our Q&As

  • What wildlife can I expect to see during the tour?

    During the tour, you can expect to see iconic Arctic wildlife such as polar bears, muskoxen, whales, and seals. Onboard experts will be available to help you get the best sightings.

  • Are there any optional activities available during the tour?

    Yes, there are optional activities such as kayaking, day paddles, and the 'Tundra to Table: Inuit Culinary Experience' available to book on this trip. Some activities must be booked prior to departure and incur an additional cost. Spaces are limited, so it's recommended to enquire at the time of booking. Flight seeing is also offered on some itineraries at no additional cost and does not need to be pre-booked.

  • What type of transportation is used during the tour?

    The tour uses a ship and Zodiac for transportation, allowing you to explore diverse landscapes and make onshore landings for unique adventures.

  • What kind of accommodation is provided on the tour?

    Accommodation includes 12 nights on an expedition ship and 1 night in a comfortable hotel.

  • Where does the tour start and end?

    The tour starts and finishes in Reykjavik, Iceland.

  • What is the booking deposit requirement for this tour?

    To confirm your reservation, a deposit of 25% of the total invoice amount is required at the time of booking, unless indicated otherwise. Balances are due 120 days prior to departure.

  • What policies are in place for Covid-19?

    Please contact us for latest COVID-19 policies

  • How long has the tour company been trading?

    Intrepid Travel has been taking travellers around the world for over 30 years

  • Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?

    Yes

  • What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?

    Since 2002, The Intrepid Foundation has supported over 130 organisations across the world. We’re creating positive impact through the joy of travel, community and connection.

  • Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?

    Over 50% of traveller travel solo with Intrepid. You can choose to share a room with another solo travelle of the same sex for no additional charge, or choose to pay a single supplement if you’d like your own room. Please request this when booking, and we will secure you a single supplement wherever possible. Please note, if you are booking a last-minute trip, it may be harder for us to secure a single room

Reviews of this operator

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1 Select your preferred date

Saturday - Friday

Sep 19, 2026 - Oct 02, 2026
$14395 $12236 (USD)

Operator discount: -$2159 (USD)

Book with Confidence

  • Free Date Changes

    Intrepid Travel allows you to make 10 free date changes, as long as the change is made at least 56 days before the start of the tour.

  • Transfer as credit to Future Tours

    Intrepid Travel allows you to transfer existing payments to a future tour to avoid cancellation fees if you can't travel and inform intrepid travel, 56 days before departure.

  • Low Deposit

    Intrepid Travel requires a minimum deposit of 400 USD per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 56 days before departure.

  • Cancellation Policy

    We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of intrepid travel charges.

    Up to 56 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.

    At 55 days before tour starts: Forfeit 30% of booking price.

    At 30 days before tour starts: Forfeit 60% of booking price.

    At 14 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.