iceland tourist guide school

Leiðsögn, Iceland Tourist Guide Association

Leiðsögn - Iceland Tourist Guide Association is a trade union for tourist guides and was founded in 1972. By that time, most of its 27 founding members had already worked as tourist guides for many years. They realized the necessity to form an association to establish themselves as professionals and to negotiate a standard salary for their services. Training courses were held to enrich the members’ knowledge and skills.

The Iceland Tourist Guide Association represents the interests of all tourist guides in the country.

If you have questions or comments, please feel free to contact us: [email protected]

Style Switcher

Layout style, predefined colors, background image.

Þessi vefsíða notar vafrakökur, með því að heimsækja vefsíðu okkar samþykkir þú notkun á vafrakökum. Sjá nánar.

Ice Cave Day Tours

Price from: 14.900 ISK

Meet on location: Mýrdalsjökull

Price from: 14.990 ISK

Meet on location: Sólheimajökull

Price from: 10.500 ISK

Meet on location: Skaftafell

Price from: 18.990 ISK

Day Tours from Reykjavík

Price from: 8.399 ISK

Glacier Walks

Price from: 16.999 ISK

Partner Tours

Price from: 10.900 ISK

Hiking, Caving & Mountain Climbing

Price from: 17.900 ISK

Combo Tours

Northern Lights Tours

Price from: 13.900 ISK

Ski Touring & Cross Country Skiing

Price from: 259.000 ISK

• Laugavegur Trail

Price from: 151.664 ISK

Hiking & Trekking

Price from: 28.999 ISK

Expeditions

Price from: 620.000 ISK

Backpacking

Short Breaks & Getaways

Price from: 62.000 ISK

Price from: 79.000 ISK

Glaciers in Iceland

Adventure Ground

Price from: 24.999 ISK

Lava Caves & Ice Caves in Iceland

Price from: 24.990 ISK

Golden Circle

Price from: 14.999 ISK

Glacier Lagoons

Price from: 18.999 ISK

Landmannalaugar

Hot Springs

Price from: 40.999 ISK

Snæfellsnes

Private Groups & Tailor-Made

Special Offers

Manage your booking.

You can manage your bookings via my.mountainguides.is

• Suggestions

Summer in the Highlands

Multi-day tours, attractions, tailor made.

Your browser doesn't support HTML5 video. Here is a link to the video instead.

Your Adventure Travel & Tour Expert in Iceland

Find your adventure, your adventure awaits.

Let our award-winning tours and certified guides take you on an adventure of a lifetime. See some of our adventure selection below. 

Laugavegur Trek Classic (Huts)

Askur Ice Cave Adventure

Askur Ice Cave Adventure from Reykjavík

Askur Ice Cave in a Mountain Truck

ATV and the South Coast

ATV Black Beach Safari and the Plane Wreck

Glacier Discovery

Ice Cave and Glacier Walk - Only the Brave

Snowmobile and South Coast

Blue Ice Experience & Fjallsárlón Iceberg Lagoon

Snowmobile Adventure

Glacier Adventure - Glacier Walk

Skaftafell Ice Cave Tour & Glacier Hike

Kayaking by the Glacier

2-hour Buggy Experience by Myrdalsjokull

Most popular tour categories.

We offer the perfect variety of experiences to satisfy anyone’s desire for adventure. Whether you want to relax in the unparalleled beauty of Iceland's nature or take a more challenging adventure, we’ve got you covered. The possibilities are endless and the memories will last a lifetime.

Price from: 22.999 ISK

Guiding with Passion Since 1994

Guiding in Iceland’s beautiful wilderness is not a job to us, it’s a lifestyle. We live and breathe the outdoor adventure life when we are with customers and in our free time. Our passion for nature and adventure drives us to provide quality, fun and educational experiences for our customers.

The Highest Safety Standards

Icelandic Mountain Guides have been the leading outdoor adventure company for safety and guide training in Iceland for over 25 years. Our guides are highly trained and certified outdoor professionals that prioritize the safety of our customers. Learn more about our guide education programs and rigorous safety standards.

Carbon Neutral Tours

Providing quality outdoor experiences depends on the continued prosperity of Iceland’s delicate nature and we feel it is our responsibility to protect it. In an effort to reduce our environmental impact and leave no trace on all the tours that we offer, we are carbon neutralizing all of our day tours.

Customer Reviews

Fantastic first time glacier hike.

This hike with our excellent guide Hanka has truly been one of the most outstanding parts of our time in Iceland. She was extremely knowledgeable, helpful to us first-time glacier trekkers and engaging with our teenage son -- which he told us he really appreciated. The scenery is magnificent and the smell of the air and sound of the rushing water is unforgettable. 5 stars.

Hvannadalshnúkur dreams come true

I took a Hvannadalshnúkur (highest peak of Iceland) tour with Andrea and Antoine. I wanted to thank all Icelandic Mountain Guides team for this tour. It is definitely a must-do when in Iceland if you are here in the right season. I have enjoyed it from the briefing (one day before the tour) until the very last minute. Andrea and Antoine are professionals in every meaning of this word. They have helped everyone out with any issue (equipment and attaching it to the backpack, even giving away their equipment if needed), kept a good positive attitude even when some people from the group started to have some doubts, followed safety rules during all the tour and made it just fun and enjoyable. Even after 3h of sleep and 13,5h hike I was just the happiest and I would do it again and again every season :) Beautiful experience, lifetime memory. Thank you so much and sending kindest regards to Antoine (saved my tour ) and Andrea, you are legends!

Blue Ice Experience 🧊 Hike on a Glacier in Skaftafell National Park

Double the fun.

We booked with Icelandic Mountain Guides twice while in Iceland. The first was the 5 day Wilderness of Strútur Trail and the second was the Blue Ice Experience out of Skaftafell. They were both fabulous and I would highly recommend them. We selected the Wilderness of Strúter Trail rather than the more popular Landmannalaugar trek since we wanted to be far from the maddening crowd. It exceeded our expectations! Milla was an incredible guide and really helped us make the most of our 5 days (the perfect weather helped too and while I think Milla was fabulous...I can't give her credit for the weather :-) She also was an incredible resource on Iceland in general and was very generous with her expertise on things to do around the country as we were heading out for 12 days to drive the ring road (she even responded to texts while we were on the road with last minute questions!) The huts were better than I expected and the food was great. High fives all around. Our second excursion was the Blue Ice Experience. We were limited on time and it gave us the opportunity to get out on the glacier. Hallthor was a really excellent guide and a great resource on what to do around Myvatn.

Iceland Adventure Blog

Hiker's Guide to Fjallabak Nature Reserve: Trails and Tips

The Secrets of the Crystal Ice Cave in Iceland

The Ultimate Guide to Snowmobiling in Iceland

The Ultimate List of the Best Hikes in Iceland

The Best Hikes Near Reykjavík: A Hiker’s Guide to Iceland's Capital

The Ultimate Guide to Glaciers and Glacier Hikes in Iceland

What to Wear on a Glacier Hike in Iceland

How to Plan Your Visit to Skaftafell National Park

A Complete Guide to Solo Hiking in Iceland

Sign up to receive the icelandic mountain guides newsletter.

Stay up to date with the latest information from us before, during and after your trip to Iceland,

The Most Awarded Adventure Tour Company in Iceland

We are proud recipients of various awards and recognitions for operating adventure tours in both Iceland and Greenland.

About Iceland

Visa information, geography of iceland, general information, the northern lights, volcanic eruptions, sustainable travel, iceland academy, plan your trip, how to get there, accommodation, things to do, map your journey, getting around, carbon footprint, destinations, the regions, scenic routes, national parks, trip suggestions, towns & villages, inspiration, food and beverages, lbgt+ travel, explore iceland.

Read handpicked articles to get you inspired by Iceland

Reykjavík Weekend Getaway

Although by far the largest city in Iceland - home to two-thirds of Iceland’s population - Reykjavík is by any other measure a small capital; the city center, from one end to another, is only a 45 minute stretch by foot. On a weekend getaway, little time is wasted getting between sights. 

How to capture the Northern lights with a smartphone

Around Iceland in 14 days

Sheep and horse roundups in Iceland

Minibreak North Iceland

Volcanic activity has stopped on Reykjanes Peninsula

How to Get to Iceland

Planning a trip to Iceland

Camping in Iceland

LGBT+ Travel in Iceland

Hiking in Iceland

Quality of Life in Iceland: The Secrets to Know Before Visiting 

Experience the 2026 Total Solar Eclipse in Iceland

6 Unforgettable riding tours in Iceland

Getting Around Iceland: Transport for Independent Travelers

Swimming pool culture in Iceland

Incredible travel experiences money can indeed buy

Iceland for lovebirds

The Volcanic Way - An Adventure Through Iceland in the Making

Somebody Feed Phil Foodtrail in Iceland

16 places of Character and Charm to eat for Every Corner of Iceland

What to wear in Iceland

Volcanos of Iceland

New destinations in 2024

How to practice your hobby in Iceland

Vík: The idyllic Icelandic village

Key Locations for Viking History in Iceland

A 3 day mini-break in West Iceland

Iceland's Three UNESCO World Heritage Sites

Famous film sights in Iceland

The Eastfjords

Safe travel in Iceland

Arctic Coast Way

The Diamond Circle

Þingvellir National Park

Volcanic Activity on Reykjanes Peninsula

Since 2021, the Reykjanes Peninsula has witnessed a surge in seismic activity, including several volcanic eruptions. Despite this, Iceland has remained a safe and open destination for travelers.

Regions of Iceland

Iceland is typically divided into 7 different geographical regions. Each region differs slightly in respect to culture and landscapes, but are uniquely Icelandic. Find your favorite part of Iceland.

Looking for things to do?

Wellness in Iceland

Experience the ultimate wellness retreat for your mind, body, and soul amidst the breathtaking landscapes of Iceland. Across the country are world-class spas that tap into Iceland's abundant—and sustainable—mineral-rich waters from geothermal sources. Iceland is a true haven of relaxation and rejuvenation, beckoning tired travelers from across the globe.

Appreciate our towns & villages

Did you know that there are over 100 towns and villages to explore throughout Iceland? We encourage you to stop and look into these charming, beautiful, and often quirky places. History, art, nature, local cuisine, and year-round swimming pools abound. You might be surprised at what you find!

Sign up for our mailing list

Stay connected and find out what is happening in Iceland.

Open today, 9am - 5pm

Our opening hours are:

Monday – Friday

Call us: 01737 218 807

Search Discover the World Education

Speak to an Iceland specialist

Essential Iceland School Trip Iceland

4 Days from £715pp

based on 36 students and 4 free teacher places, Jan-May and Sep-Dec 2025 excluding school holiday peak dates

Iceland isn't just a geographers' playground, it's a place that inspires artists, photographers and historians from all over the world. With a trip to Iceland, students can experience natural wonders like sprawling lava fields, and stunning waterfalls and you might catch a glimpse of the northern lights!

As the world's leading tour operator to Iceland, we've built great relationships with the Icelandic tourism community and the locals meaning we can offer activities you won't find anywhere else.

No matter your budget, we'll work with you to create an itinerary for an unforgettable visit. Below is an example of what you could see and do in Iceland and our Travel Specialists work with you every step of the way to tailor your activities to your school’s needs.

What's included

• Return flights from London Luton airport
• Hold luggage
• 3 nights' accommodation
• Full board basis
• Teacher Tour Leader guide on days 2 and 3
• Our Covid money-back assurance

Ask about our approach to Responsible Travel

We believe the benefits of travel should not be lost for the next generation. In order to protect this world we live in and also inspire a new group of young people to fight for our planet, we are developing an approach to Responsible Travel that is founded in facts, empowers young people to take action and involves suppliers at all levels in minimising negative impacts of travel.

We are committed to finding and implementing maintainable strategies which include developing teaching resources, offsetting carbon emissions, benefitting local economies, protecting local cultures and becoming ‘Plastic Clever’ travellers.

We can’t do it alone. Will you join us?

“This was our fifth trip to Iceland with Discover the World Education and every time we get such an effective and friendly service, both prior and during the trip, that it makes the decision to go back with Discover the World Education even easier each time. The knowledgeable guides, that are ex-teachers really do add so much to the trip. Thank you! ”

Reykjanes Peninsula and Hveragerdi

Touch down in Keflavik on the South West Reykjanes Peninsula of Iceland.

You’ll spend your first hours in Iceland exploring this highly active geothermal area – an ideal introduction to this unique land of ice and fire!

Bring to life your students’ knowledge of tectonic plates on the Bridge Between Continents before witnessing the dramatic landscapes of the Stampar Craters and bubbling mud pools at Gunnuhver .

You’ll visit the iconic lighthouse at Reykjanesviti before stopping for lunch.

In the afternoon you will head to the colourful geothermal area of Seltun where geography students will marvel at the sights (and smells) of the fumaroles around the walking paths.

Next, your group will head to the town of Hveragerdi , a perfect case study of how Icelandic people use all this geothermal energy to their advantage and how it shapes their community.

Your day concludes at a countryside retreat, exclusive to Discover the World Education, where your group will be treated to a hot meal and plenty of space to spend some free time.

Waterfalls, Solheimajokull glacier and black beaches

Day 2 is all about the power of water!

Zip up your waterproofs and brave the cold spray of Seljalandsfoss from behind the waterfall itself. On sunny days your students will see many rainbows formed in the spray.

A short walk from Seljalandsfoss is one of Iceland’s hidden gems, Gljiufrabui , a waterfall that cascades into an otherworldly cavern!

The next tick on the waterfall bucket list is Skogafoss , one of Iceland’s most iconic sites! For your more energetic pupils, there is a staircase to the right of the falls where you can watch the water rush over the Cliffside.

Witness the power of water in a totally different way when you discover the enormous glacier, Solheimajokull . This glacier has been retreating due to climate change and the glacial lagoon formed at the mouth of the glacier is a sobering reminder of the dramatic changes it has experienced in the last few years.

Geography trips aren’t complete without studying the famous Icelandic coastline between Reynishverfi and Dyrholaey , which is home to Iceland’s answer to Durdle Door, and the black sands featured in Game of Thrones.

Golden Circle

Your last full day in Iceland will focus on the classic Golden Circle sights.

Starting with Iceland’s most reliable geyser Strokkur which spouts every 6 minutes or so.

A short journey away is the tiered waterfall, Gullfoss , whose size and volume a guaranteed trip highlights!

Your group will then discover the rift valley at Thingvellir National Park  – the divergent zone between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates. Thingvellir translates to ‘the fields of parliament’ as it was home to Iceland’s first parliament.

No trip to Iceland would be complete without a chance to sightsee the capital of Reykjavik with your guide. This small city has a unique culture and students will enjoy exploring the quirky shops, cosy cafes and colourful street art on their last afternoon.

You will stay in the heart of the city overnight.

Wave goodbye to your new favourite place as you have one last chance to see the beautiful landscapes through the coach window on your way back to Keflavik airport for your flight home.

School Trip Planning Hub

We know that the real job of selling a school trip is down to you and your colleagues so we've collated some helpful resources for you to use to make sure you not only get the buy in from your students and their parents, but also that you have all the details you need to ensure a simple planning process.

Curriculum links

• Tectonic processes, landforms & hazards
• Weather processes & hazards
• Climate change
• Coastal processes, landforms & management
• Water & river processes, landforms & management
• Glacial processes, landforms & management
• Geological processes & landforms
• Urban change & growth
• Economic change
• Food resources
• Water resources
• Energy resources

Get Started!

Eyjafjallajokull: a geography case study.

The aim of this 15-minute video is to reflect on the eruption of Eyjafjallajokull in 2010 and to look forward to possible future volcanic eruptions in Iceland.

Solheimajokull: A Geography Case Study

Changing places: hveragerdi, iceland.

Changing Places: Hveragerdi uses amazing aerial footage together with interviews to give the viewer an introduction into the development of Hveragerdi.

• Principal's Welcome
• Guiding Statements
• School Calendar
• Child Protection Policy at ISI
• Emergency Evacuation Plan
• Request for Absence
• Disruptions to school due to weather
• Accreditation with Middle States Association
• U.S. Office of Overseas Schools and AERO
• Icelandic Authorization
• European Council of International Schools
• Kindergarten
• International Primary Curriculum - IPC
• IB Learner Profile
• IB-MYP Policies
• Personal Projects
• Primary School
• Middle Years
• Image Gallery
• Staff Portal
• Name Adela Rovenschi
• Job Title Teacher
• Email [email protected]
• [email protected]
• Name Amanda Tyahur
• Job Title Support Services
• Email [email protected]
• [email protected]
• Name Áróra Gunnarsdóttir
• Job Title Homeroom Teacher
• Email [email protected]

Áróra Gunnarsdóttir is originally from Ísafjörður. In addition to her work at ISI, she is a Certified tourist guide from the Iceland Tourist Guide School, from which she graduated in 2015.

She has a passion for languages and different cultures and loves to travel and work with children. Before coming to ISI, she has lived and volunteered in Mexico, working with children ages 3-16. In her free time, she enjoys singing/playing guitar, reading and travelling the country with her daughter.

Email: [email protected]

• [email protected]
• Name Berta Faber
• Job Title Curriculum & Instruction
• Email [email protected]

Berta has a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration from Boston University and a Master’s Degree in Curriculum and Instruction from the University of Wisconsin – Madison. Growing up in Saudi Arabia, Berta attended international schools in both Saudi Arabia and Italy. She has many years of teaching experience, having taught all levels, from kindergarten to university preparation in the U.S., Iceland and Japan.

In 2004, Berta founded the International School of Iceland. She has attended numerous conferences and workshops on education through the European Council of International Schools and AERO Office of Overseas Schools in Washington DC.

​Email: [email protected]

• [email protected]
• Name Daniel Byung-Chan Roh
• Email [email protected]

Daniel Roh graduated from Virginia Commonwealth University with a Bachelor's Degree in English. He worked in a 5th grade math classroom for a year in Richmond, Virginia and was an instructor at the NYC Outward Bound Schools and Northwest Outward Bound Schools in New York, Washington State and Oregon. He has also volunteered as a GED Instructor at the Richmond City Justice Center for Incarcerated Residents. His educational philosophy is centered around Outdoor and Experiential Education. He believes in cultivating student self-sufficiency by empowering academic, social and emotional development in all aspects of student life.

Outside of the classroom, Daniel is an Association of Icelandic Mountain Guides certified Glacier 1 and Mountain 1 guide and graduate of the FAS Mountaineering school. He writes about Iceland and the outdoors for small online publications. Please say hello if you see him around town with his young son and large Icelandic family!

• [email protected]
• Name Elisa Osk Linadottir
• Job Title Vice Principal
• Email [email protected]

Elísa Ósk has a Masters degree in Special Education and a B.Sc. degree in psychology. She has worked as a behavioral instructor for children with special needs, specializing in social skills and behavioral training, since 2012.

Elísa grew up surrounded by mountains in the Westfjords of Iceland. She enjoys music and plays the guitar.

Email: [email protected]

• [email protected]
• Name Hanna Hilmarsdóttir
• Job Title Principal
• Email [email protected]

Hanna has extensive experience in the private sector, both as an administrator and entrepreneur. She received a BA in Human Development and Educational Science from the University of Iceland in 2005. In 2007, she received her MA in Education Administration and Leadership from the same university. She joined the ISI team in 2007. In 2008, she was promoted to Assistant Headmistress and, in 2013, to Headmistress.

Hanna has attended numerous courses and conferences on leadership with the European Council of International Schools, AERO Office of Overseas Schools and Dale Carnegie.

A true believer in the partnership between home and school, Hanna sat as a member of the School Board, School Council and as President of the Parent Association in Alftanes Primary School.

Email: [email protected]

• [email protected]
• Name Jóhanna María Bjarnadóttir
• Email [email protected]
• [email protected]
• Name Kirsten Kummerfeld
• Job Title P.D. Coordinator & Homeroom Teacher
• Email [email protected]

Originally from Germany, Kirsten has a BA in Early Education from Alte-Eichen in Hamburg, Germany. Her MA, in Elementary School Education, is from Elly-Heuss-Knapp. Kirsten also attended art school for 2 years at Christian-Albrecht University in Kiel, Germany.

Kirsten has more than 20 years of teaching experience in Europe and the United States. She worked in Sweden at the International School of Lund, in the US at St. James Episcopal School in Los Angeles and Cedar Creek Elementary School in Canyon County, CA.

In addition to her education degrees, Kirsten studied Art History and Painting, Drawing and Sculpture at Temple University in Rome. Her talent and experience is perfect as the Art Department Head at ISI.

Kirsten has also completed Forest School Teaching training (Level 3) which allows her to teach effectively in nature. Kirsten loves horses and dance. She started horseback riding at age 5 and is a certified Equine Specialist in Mental Health and Learning, specializing in Interactive Vaulting. She has danced professionally and at a competitive level for 13 years and is a certified Ballroom Dance instructor (Level 1) from the Dance Vision International Dance Association.

• [email protected]
• Name Lára Stefánsdóttir
• Email [email protected]

Lára worked at Sierra Vista Kirk Baucher School in Modesto, California, from 1999 to 2012. At first, she taught art and culture related subjects to children ages 6 to 14. As she was going to school, she served as support staff in various classrooms until she graduated from Stanislaus with a degree in Art and minor in Art History. In 2005, she took over teaching technology at the same school as well as yearbook creation with the help of the 7th and 8th grade students.

Since returning to Iceland in 2012, she has taught Icelandic at Centrum Studium Linguae in addition to her work at ISI. In the summer of 2013, she attended the IPC Summer School conference in the Netherlands.

She is currently enrolled in a program to earn an International Teacher Certificate through Cambridge University and the European Council of International Schools (ECIS).

Beyond teaching, Lára is an accomplished artist. She participated in a group show at the Jay Jay Art Gallery in Sacramento, CA, in 2012. The following year, she showed her art at the Götusýning Reykjavik Art Festival.

• [email protected]
• Name Lucy Averell
• Email [email protected]

Lucy originates from Scotland and graduated with a B.Ed in Primary Education from the University of Edinburgh. In 2020, she achieved a PG.Cert. in Bilingualism in Education from the University of Birmingham.

Lucy taught in a primary school in Scotland before joining ISI in 2013. During the summer breaks, she has enjoyed traveling to different parts of the world. She has worked as an arts and crafts specialist at a children’s summer camp in New York and spent two summers teaching English to children in Kenya and Bali.

In the summer of 2018, Lucy participated in an AERO workshop in Washington D.C. which focused on the teaching of English Language Arts within the curriculum.

• [email protected]
• Name Maria Castillejos Carbó
• Email [email protected]
• [email protected]
• Name Mirjam de Ward
• Email [email protected]
• [email protected]
• Name Nicholas Milner
• Email [email protected]

Nicholas (Nic) Milner grew up in Sydney, Australia, and could be described as a somewhat stereotypical Australian, greeting everyone day or night with a cheerful, “g’day”.

Nic graduated from Macquarie University (Australia) with a B.Ed in Secondary Education with a double major in English literature and ancient history. He is currently completing his M.Ed from the University of Iceland. Nic worked in schools in northwest Sydney teaching English, modern and ancient history, business and legal studies, as well as tutoring students in extended and creative writing.

Nic enjoys rugby, cricket, board games, camping, and is actually a pretty handy cook - particularly if you enjoy Thai or Italian cuisine. Nic also has a pet Jack Russell Terrier named Dog.

• [email protected]
• Name Oliwia Kaminska
• Email [email protected]
• [email protected]
• Name Ólafur Schram
• Job Title Music Teacher
• Email [email protected]

Ólafur graduated from the University of Iceland with a B.Ed in 1998 and has taught music ever since. He is a full-time music teacher at our host school, Sjálandsskóli, and has taught ISI students since 2007. In addition, he works part-time at the University of Arts. Alongside his teaching, he is working on a MA degree at the University of Iceland.

Music is Óli´s passion and he is both a classical and jazz pianist. He can also play various other instruments, when necessary. In his free time, he creates educational materials for the National Association of Educational Materials, plays football, reads and, of course, listens to music!

• [email protected]
• Name Pamala Hansford
• Job Title Middle School Leader and Homeroom Teacher
• Email [email protected]

Pam has a Diploma in Educational studies from the University of Iceland. She also completed B.A. degrees in Icelandic for Foreigners and English at the same university.

Originally from England, Pam worked in scientific research before setting off on her travels. She lived and worked in Australia and Israel before arriving in Iceland in 1986. During her time in Iceland, Pam has taught English in Icelandic primary and secondary education, adult ESL and in the Moðurmál English Program.

At ISI, she teaches English and Humanities. Pam is passionate about literature and all things connected to reading. As a result, she is perfectly suited to being the school librarian.

Pam has been the High School coordinator since September 2016.

Pam has been teaching at the International School of Iceland since 2004, apart from the 2011-2012 school year, when she was on sabbatical at the International School of Oslo.

• [email protected]
• Name Rachael Glasser
• Job Title IB Coordinator and Homeroom Teacher
• Email [email protected]

Rachael grew up in Columbia, South Carolina in the United States. She has earned an undergraduate degree in English Literature from Furman University, a master's degree in English from Wake Forest University, and a second master's degree in Curriculum and Instruction from Boston University. Rachael has worked in K-12 education in a variety of contexts. After completing her master's degree at Wake Forest, she moved to Chapel Hill, North Carolina to serve as the Coordinator for Youth Leadership and Education at a community nonprofit. In this role, she organized educational programs for K-12 students focusing on local history and oral history storytelling. She then moved to Lynn, Massachusetts after accepting a secondary English teaching position. Throughout the next four years, she taught 9th, 10th, and 11th grade English Language Arts, Multimedia Journalism, and Creative Writing. At ISI, she teaches English and Humanities and works with the IB team. Outside of working in education, Rachael loves reading, cooking new and exciting foods, being outdoors, knitting, and spending time with family and friends. She graduated from Háskóla Íslands with a diploma in Icelandic as a Second Language, and is continuing to learn in her spare time. Her favorite things about living in Iceland are the beautiful nature and being closer to family and loved ones.

• [email protected]
• Name Sigríður Heiðarsdóttir
• Email [email protected]
• [email protected]
• Name Taylor Lay
• Email [email protected]

Taylor grew up in Jeffersonville, Indiana, in the US. She earned an undergraduate degree in Elementary Education and a master’s degree in Reading Instruction and Curriculum, both from Indiana University. After completing her undergraduate degree, Taylor became a kindergarten teacher and remained in her position for three years. She has a passion for teaching students how to read and deeply enjoys being involved in the first few years of students’ education. Taylor moved to Iceland to be with her husband. Outside of the classroom, she loves exploring, long drives, cooking, and spending time with family. She regularly is on weekend road trips trying to see something new in Iceland and taking in all of the beauty along the way. She has a large family in the US and tries to visit and Facetime with them as much as possible.

• [email protected]

• Explore Our Trips
• Get a Quote

Iceland for School Trips – Q&A

Posted on April 2, 2019

Adele from Arctic Education is talking all about Iceland, one of the most geologically active regions your class can visit on your next school expedition.

Hi Adele, Iceland has long been the go to destination for students around the world. What makes Iceland so appealing for School trips?

Straddling the Mid-Atlantic Ridge and moulded by ferocious natural forces, Iceland is the Land of Fire and Ice. The land of hardly any trees, of merciless winds and the home to some of the strongest people in the world including Hafþór Júlíus Björnsson of Game of Thrones and World’s Strongest Man fame.

Which different curriculum topics can be built in to a school tour to Iceland?

Iceland really does have something for everyone, it’s not all about Geography in Iceland like people think, there is much more to the country than that.

For English students there are the renowned Sagas of Icelanders which are also more commonly known as family sagas which are mostly based on historical events that mostly took place in Iceland in the 9th, 10th, and early 11th centuries, during what is known as the Saga Age. There are stories of trolls and elves, some fantastic poetry and the hugely important Edda, perhaps one of the most important pieces of medieval literature in the world.

For film and media students, there are some great locations and many films have been made in Iceland from The Secret Life of Walter Mitty to Game of Thrones. For Art students, Reykjavik has established a worldwide reputation as an imaginative hub for new and established artists. And of course, Iceland ticks so many boxes for Physics and Geography that your students really shouldn’t miss it.

This isn’t an exhaustive list, we can generally build most curricular themes into trips – just ask!

A good chunk of Iceland’s power comes from geothermal energy. Is there the opportunity for students to learn more about this on a trip to Iceland?

Absolutely! Iceland is perhaps one of the most dynamic volcanic regions in the world. Depending on the package, as all of our tours are tailor made to the requirements of the school, we visit the Hellisheidi Geothermal Power Station which is the third-largest geothermal power station in Iceland and only around 30 minutes outside Reykjavik. We also get to see this geothermal energy in action at various times throughout our trips – be this the heated pathways of Reykjavik in winter or seeing the amazing geyser eruptions.

Where do students generally stay in Iceland and how much of the island will they visit?

This really depends on the length of the trip and the objectives for students. There are lots of combinations however we tend to do a night in Reykjavik so as to have some time in the City and visit some of the fantastic museums and other interesting sights. Then we’ll base a couple of hours outside Reykjavik in comfortable accommodation with great facilities so we’re closer to nature. This means we’re closer to places like Vík, with the famous black sand beach. For our longer tours we may even head to Jökulsárlón, the glacial beach, or beyond. Generally the main areas which are helpful to school programmes can be all found along the South Coast.

Can you tell us about some of the more popular excursions in Iceland and what makes them so popular for school groups?

The Golden Circle is a not to be missed tour and lets students really see the rawness of Icelandic nature. Many people ask about the Blue Lagoon which is very popular though we tend to recommend other places which are better value and much more authentic. There are the glaciers, the volcanos, the black sand beaches, the icebergs, the horses, whale watching… there really is so much to see and do that is often so different to what students would do back home, there are many excursions that could make this lest!

Arctic Direct uses local tour guides. How does this improve the Iceland experience for students over a trip led by the school’s own geography teacher?

Icelanders are hugely proud of their country and this really shines through. Working with local guides is really important as they can tell the story of Iceland through their own eyes. Not just that but to become a tourist guide in Iceland you have to become certified. Guides have graduated from one of the three programs that offer tour guide education: The Iceland Tourist Guide School, The Icelandic School of Travel and Tourism or The Tourist Guides Program with in the Continuing Education Department at the University of Iceland. Owing to the comprehensive training the guides receive, teachers can take time to enjoy the trip alongside their students.

When schools are planning when to travel, they are often restricted by holidays, but is there a good time of year to visit Iceland?

For schools looking to travel to Iceland we generally recommend they look at Feb – Early April and September – October. The summer period, late April – August is peak period in Iceland which tends to see higher prices, November – January is feasible however the weather in Iceland is unpredictable and these months tend to see the most challenging conditions and it can lead to disappointment if tours have to be changed or cancelled – as you’ll imagine if the wind is blowing at 50kmph, it’s not safe to take students onto a Glacier so we have contingency plans but safety always comes first.

Can the Northern Lights be seen from Iceland? And is there a good time to catch them?

It is possible to see the Northern Lights from Iceland however you need to get out into the countryside to do it. Generally the Northern Lights can only be seen from Iceland in September – March however, the weather in Iceland can be really challenging in mid-winter so we recommend September and October or Feb and March as better times to travel if your students want the chance to see the Northern Lights. Generally if the Northern Lights (and looking at atmospheric physics) are of interest, we’d recommend one of our Sweden tours.

Being located very close to the Arctic Circle, Iceland experiences long winter nights and long summer days, with almost 24 hours of darkness/twilight in December and nearly 24 hours of daylight in June. Because of this, Iceland is a great place to see both the Northern Lights and experience the Midnight Sun. Though, both of these can be made difficult to see thanks to Iceland’s ever-changing weather.

How do you view the balance between the environmental impact vs economic benefits of tourism on the island?

Iceland is very proud of the nature and we very much support the preservation of the environment. We use eco-friendly hotels and environmental issues work into the tours we use. We are also able to offer tree-planting. Although Iceland has very few trees this is because the first settles chopped them down and they grow very slowly in the harsh environment. In conjunction with the local nature authority we are able to offer students to positively contribute to the local environment by planting trees to offset their carbon footprint and help restore Iceland’s forests.

And finally, what is the food like? Is it all burgers and pizzas or are there some local delicacies to try?

There are no McDonald’s fast food restaurants in Iceland, there used to be one but after the financial crash of 2008, the one McDonald’s restaurant in Reykjavik closed down. You can of course burgers in Iceland and these tend to come from Hambórgarabúllan – a really popular and local burger fast food chain.

Iceland has some really bizarre traditional Icelandic foods. Along with things like whale, puffin, and dried fish, visitors can also try fermented shark, sheep’s head, and even pickled ram’s testicles. The even weirder part is that some of these dishes can be found in most kind of restaurants in Iceland.

We usually have a pizza night during our trips which is a firm student favourite and, if pickled ram’s testicles aren’t to yours or your student’s tastes, the most popular food in Iceland are Hot dogs.

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

You must be logged in to post a comment.

Why Choose Us?

• Destination specialists with first-hand experience.
• Tried and tested tours and excursions.
• Fully flexible, tailored itineraries.
• Dedicated email and phone support.

Get in Touch

Call us today to find out more. 01793 752 532

A land of ever changing scenery, dramatic lighting and incredible energy; replete with rainbows, waterfalls, glaciers, hot springs and trolls, Iceland’s beauty captivates all those who visit.

• Approx. 2hrs
• Seljalandsfoss
• Þingvellir National Park
• Reykjanes Geo Park
• Blue Lagoon

For the latest travel advice, including passport and visa information, visit the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office website

Sample itinerary

This sample itinerary is offered as a guideline. The trip focus, length and itinerary/activities can be tailored to meet your learning objectives.

Day 1 - Arrive in Iceland

Land at Keflavik Airport, a small but modern airport situated at the Western tip of the Reykjanes peninsula and begin your excursion in Iceland!

From there it's a 45 minute drive to Reykjavik, the colourful capital city of Iceland. Reykjavik is also the world's northern-most capital city and full of history as well as modern Icelandic culture.

Here, visit the Perlan, Iceland’s unique interactive nature exploratorium. A landmark in its own right, students can enjoy fantastic views of the city from the observation platform before heading inside. Voted Best of the Best 2023 on Tripadvisor, this gem includes the world’s first indoor ice cave, built with over 350 tons of snow from the Blue Mountains, an interactive exhibit on Icelandic glaciers, and a breathtaking 360° Northern Lights show in one of the world’s most sophisticated planetariums. Finish with the Lava Show, the hottest attraction in Reykjavik. Watch up close as they recreate a volcanic eruption by superheating real lava up to 1100°C, then pour it into the room. You can experience real molten lava, see it flowing, hear it sizzling, and feel the incredible heat that emanates from it.

Day 2 - South Coast and Glaciers

Today, head to Seljalandsfoss waterfall, which is fed by melting water from the glacier-capped Eyjafjallajökull volcano. This powerful waterfall is best known for the walking path that runs behind the curtain of water, where visitors can enjoy a truly unique viewpoint. It’s the only known waterfall in the world that it is possible to walk behind.

Then visit The Lava Centre, a brand new interactive, high-tech educational exhibition where you can learn about volcanic activity, earthquakes, and the creation of Iceland over millions of years. Geography school trips benefit from its interactive teaching on the art and science of geology, giving students the opportunity to watch a volcanic eruption in 4K HD, experience an earthquake, and see the 12-metre high structure showing how magma flows underneath Iceland.

Later on, experience how Icelanders have lived in the past with artefacts and tools dating back to the Viking age in the Skógar Folk Museum, before making your way to Skógafoss waterfall, one of the biggest waterfalls in the country at 15 metres wide and 60 metres tall. Thanks to the amount of spray the waterfall consistently produces, a single or double rainbow is normally visible on sunny days.

If weather permits, drive to the Sólheimajökull Glacier, an approximately 11km long outlet glacier, which advances from Mýrdalsjökull glacier down a one to two km wide valley. It has been retreating since 1995 and, if our climate continues to warm, it will disappear within 100 years. If you are feeling adventurous, our expert mountain guides can take you for an organised walk upon the glacier using crampons and ice picks.

Day 3 - Waterfalls and hot springs

Start today with a visit to Hellisheiði, one of the world’s largest geothermal power plants. It was created to provide electricity to the city of Reykjavik following increasing demand. Those on school trips are offered educational tours and can also see presentations about sustainable energy as part of the Geothermal Energy Exhibition. A pilot direct air capture scheme also shares the site, capturing 4000 metric tons of carbon dioxide each year which is then injected into the ground.

Then continue your journey with a drive through Þingvellir National Park, Iceland's popular rift valley that marks the crest of the Mid-Atlantic ridge and the boundary between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates.

In the afternoon visit the awesome Gullfoss waterfall, a tiered waterfall, with a total height of 32 metres making it the largest waterfall by volume in Europe. Born from the Hvita River, the crevice is hidden from sight at close range, making it appear as though the river simply vanishes into the earth.

Then drive to the Geysir hot spring area, 3km² filled with boiling mud pits and exploding geysers which have existed for more than 10,000 years. This type of hot spring is very rare and does not exist in Europe outside of Iceland. Even the word “geyser” used today for this kind of hot springs is derived from the Icelandic word Geysir. Strokkur, the most frequent, spouts water 30 metres into the air every few minutes.

You will also see Kerið Crater, originally a cone volcano that erupted and emptied its magma reserve. Once the magma was depleted, the weight of the cone collapsed into an empty magma chamber, later to be filled with water.

Day 4 - Lava fields and Blue Lagoon

This morning, try out the realistic earthquake simulator at Hveragerði. The town was built over a volcanic magma chamber and, as such, experiences both the positives and negatives of living so close to danger. All around the town, you will spot thermal greenhouses heated by geothermal energy. The Earthquake Simulator shows you just what happened to the town when, in 2008, an earthquake shook the area.

Then journey on to the Reykjanes Peninsula, located on a drift zone between two continents, the North American plate and the Eurasian plate. It is a unique site where you find different elements that exist because of the drift zone: geothermal energy, lava fields, and other natural phenomena. For example, you will see remarkable solfatara fields—an amazing expanse of steaming volcanic vents and boiling hot springs framed by an incredible range of multi-coloured hills. It is the only place in the world where the Mid-Atlantic Ridge is visible above sea level. A little later, stop at the lava flows from the 2021 and 2023 volcanic eruptions in Fagradalsfjall. Get up close and touch the cooled lava—an experience students will never forget!

After some fresh fish and chips for dinner, end your stay with an evening dip in the Blue Lagoon, a world-famous geothermal spa where the warm waters are blue and rich in minerals like silica and sulphur.

Day 5 - Fly home

This morning transfer to the airport for your flight home. If you have a later departure we will fill the itinerary this morning with some additional sightseeing.

What’s included

Full TCBC support from the moment you book until you return home

Full itinerary flexibility to ensure the perfect tour for your students

We'll source the best available flights based on your school's location

You'll have all our necessary contact details to hand should the need arise

Knowledgeable TCBC guide ready to bring your walking tours to life

Detailed itinerary, with all entrance fees included, no hidden costs

Return flights, 1 piece of hold luggage per person, airport taxes and security charges and ATOL Protection Contribution

Airport transfers upon arrival and departure. We can also arrange your UK airport transfers if you wish

Experienced Icelandic Tourist Association Guide for your included excursions

Coach, fitted with seat belts, at your disposal for all included excursions

4 nights' hotel or hostel accommodation, with multi rooms for students and single rooms for teachers

Breakfasts and dinners daily either in accommodation or local restaurant. Packed lunches provided upon request

Guided tours of Reykjavik, Reykjanes peninsula, Iceland's South Coast and the Golden Circle

There will be no hidden costs on tour, everything will be clearly explained before departure

24 hour emergency contact details of TCBC's office and your local guide's mobile number

The normal free staff place ratio is 1:10 but this is flexible and we'll work to whichever ratio you require

We'll visit your school and give a presentation to parents before departure. We introduce TCBC, run through the itinerary and what to expect and answer any questions

Cover with a bespoke travel insurance policy, provided by Endsleigh Insurance, is included in all our tours. If the cover does not meet your needs or if you prefer to use your school’s existing travel insurance, you may opt out of the Endsleigh policy.

We generally don't include lunches unless requested in advance of travel

If you feel you have received excellent service, then our local guides and drivers will appreciate being tipped. Guidelines will be outlined in your quote

Curriculum Relevance

Whichever aspect of Geography you focus on, we can design an Iceland itinerary to suit your curriculum requirements.

Together with our Education Advisor Ruth Tarrant, we have compiled useful links that show how the sights visited on your tour specifically relate to your students' studies. These will be very helpful when you come to submit the tour for approval at school.

It's important that your tour meets your learning objectives. Please feel free to download our handy introduction describing the ways a trip to Iceland can be linked to the curriculum.

We have also prepared much more detailed specifications relating to particular modules. Simply enter your name and email address, select the module you'd like and we'll send it over.

Accommodation

The properties we use in Iceland are used to working with our school groups and meet our high standards

The Ork is very popular amongst our groups. It's located in Hveragerði, a small town lying in a valley on top of a geothermal park which is used to heat the whole town. Surrounded by mountains, Hveragerði is approx a 1 hour drive from Keflavik airport and Reykjavik and is the perfect base to explore the South of Iceland.

The rooms are comfortable, clean and have all necessary amenities. There is a spacious area downstairs which groups can use, complete with pool table, foosball and table tennis. The restaurant Hver can provide your evening meals and packed lunches upon request. There is also an outdoor heated pool, but lifeguard services must be paid for separately.

Visit website

Lighthouse Inn

The perfect place to stay if you have an early morning departure from Keflavik. Located 10 minutes from the airport on the tip of the Reykjanes peninsula and as the name suggests, right by one of the oldest lighthouses in Iceland.

The Lighthouse Inn is a brand new property, simply laid out with one corridor and comfortable rooms off either side. As a family run hotel, there's a very personable welcoming feel. In the evening, this is one of the best places to see the Northern Lights.

Hotel Cabin

A good option if you want to stay in the centre of Reykjavik. The Cabin is located downtown, on a main road with great views from front facing rooms out to the coast, the sea and the mountains in the distance.

There are 7 floors with 249 clean and comfortable rooms. There is a decent sized downstairs lobby area and a smaller sized breakfast area just past reception.

More tours like this

Reasons to travel with us

We honestly believe we are the best in what we do. We'd love the opportunity to show you.

Safety & reliability

The safety of all our travellers is our number 1 priority. We have a robust Safety Management System in place to ensure that our tours are run to the high levels you expect.

Experience & expertise

We have years of experience in planning school tours. Our expertise lies in our organisational skills, attention to detail and an understanding of what you need to make your trip a success.

TCBC local guides

Our guides are our greatest assets and consistently lauded. Highly experienced, knowledgeable and trustworthy, most are hand-picked and have worked with us for years.

Complete peace of mind

Our accreditations (ATOL, ABTA, STF, LOtC) provide you with the reliability, assurance and financial security expected from a specialist tour operator.

Customer service

Our dedicated team is on hand to offer help and advice at every stage. We are positive you will be impressed with the high level of service you receive from us.

Flexibility & customisation

We customise every trip to suit your needs and offer maximum flexibility in planning your itinerary. We won’t rest until we get it right!

The personal touch

Getting to know our clients is very important to us. It’s very likely therefore that you’ll meet one or several of us at some point, either at school before departure or on the tour itself.

Total transparency

We include as much as possible in our quotes and are very transparent about what is and what is not included. There will be no hidden or surprise costs.

Pre-departure support

We understand how much work goes into planning a school trip. You will be dealing with the same people throughout the pre-departure process allowing us to respond quickly and accurately.

Repeat business

99.9% of teachers are so happy with our tours and our service that there is no need to travel with anyone else. We are confident you will feel the same way.

We had a fantastic trip to Iceland. The service provided by TCBC was exceptional, with staff members being incredibly helpful and professional. The excursion was truly outstanding, and we would highly recommend TCBC to other school groups. Mark Taylor, Assistant Principal Tower College

School Trips To Iceland

We understand the immense value of hands-on learning experiences beyond the classroom, and that's why we have carefully crafted an array of captivating and enriching itineraries for students of all ages. 

Famed for its dramatic volcanic landscapes and array of natural wonders, Iceland is a Nordic island nation residing in the North Atlantic. Due to its vigorous geothermal activity and unusual climate, Iceland boasts a diverse geography featuring numerous geysers, glaciers, hot springs and black sand beaches.

Explore Iceland with trips from Next Generation Travel

Head out of the classroom and explore the other-worldly geographical features of Iceland - home to glaciers, geysers, volcanoes and geothermal lagoons.

Heading on a science school trip to Iceland provides the perfect case studies to aid your GCSE or A level student’s course work.

Take a look at the wide range of trips available to Iceland from Next Generation Travel brands.

Our Trips To Iceland

There is perhaps no better place on earth to experience such a wealth of jaw dropping geographical features than Iceland. A true wonderland, this other-worldly landscape is home to glaciers, geysers, contrasting waterfalls, tectonic plates, volcanoes and volcanic beaches, and not forgetting the stunning geothermal lagoons.

During a Geography or Science trip to Iceland, GCSE and A Level students will be able to experience and learn about this fascinating country first-hand. Booking with WST means you'll have access to our Geography specialists, who have a wealth of experience to help create your ideal tour – filled with spectacular learning opportunities.

Top Attractions

As a leading educational tour provider, we take great pride in curating captivating experiences that showcase the best of this beautiful country. 

With guided trip days exploring the iconic landscape, our carefully crafted itineraries aim to enrich your knowledge, inspire your imagination, and create memories that last a lifetime. 

Join us as we embark on a journey through Iceland's most captivating attractions, where education meets adventure, and every moment becomes a lesson worth cherishing.

Choose WST for:

• Fun-filled experiences
• Enriching education
• And memories that will last a lifetime

Why choose NGT for School Trips?

• Award Winning Service
• Trusted By Our Customers
• Expert Tour Planners
• Book with Confidence

At NGT, we take school trips seriously. We are destination and subject experts with an award-winning service. You can count on us for the perfect balance of educational and personal development. We take great pride in ensuring our customers’ satisfaction by going above and beyond to meet their travel needs. But don’t just take out word for it…

WST Partners & Accreditations

Support and resources for planning your trip

We have been operating school tours for over 35 years so we know a thing or two about planning a school trip. One of the benefits of this is that we have an abundance of knowledge and supporting documents to share with you. In our resources area you will find everything you need for your school trip planning:

• Frequently asked questions
• Parent letters
• Insurance documents
• Risk assessment documents
• Planning tips

Featured Resource

A Guide To Risk Assessment

You need to know you can book with a tour operator who has everything covered for you.

This guide will assist you completing your own risk assessments covering areas such as:

• What is a risk assessment
• Event specific risk assessments
• Emergency procedures

Get a quote today and let’s start our journey together

Please select a type of trip below:

Need to speak to an expert?

The quickest way to speak to an expert

01253 441900

01376 574130

020 8335 4949

020 8335 4455

We just need a few more details

Your enquiry.

Lastly, how should we contact you?

Please verify that you are not a robot.

Thank you for requesting a quote with

You’re one step closer to your trip.

Your Enquiry has been received by , our school trips provider.

We’ll get back to you within 48 hours via your email or by phone on .

There was a problem submitting your details.

Please contact us or try again later.

Blue Lagoon

• View on Map

Set in a surreal landscape of lava fields, the Blue Lagoon is a geothermal marvel in Iceland's Reykjanes Peninsula. It's not just the sight that captivates, but the experience of soaking in warm, mineral-rich waters originating from 2,000 meters below the surface—a stark contrast to the cool air of the Icelandic climate. This man-made lagoon is fed by water from the nearby Svartsengi power plant, striking a perfect balance between nature and sustainable energy use. Why visit the Blue Lagoon? • Soothing geothermal waters: Luxuriate in waters averaging 37–39°C, brimming with beneficial minerals. • Healing silica mud: Apply the lagoon's signature white mud, known for its skin-nourishing properties. • Unique ecosystem: Float in vibrant blue waters, with silica, algae, and salts, creating a natural spa. • Accessible adventure: The lagoon is equipped to welcome visitors with special needs, ensuring everyone can enjoy the experience. • Sustainable relaxation: Embrace wellness at a site that honours its environmental responsibility, holding a B Corp™ certification. Ready to immerse yourself in this bucket-list destination?

Enquire about this trip

Northern Lights Tour (September – March)

Join a Northern Lights Tour in Iceland for an enchanting evening chasing one of nature's most spectacular displays: the Aurora Borealis. This natural light show, set against the vast Icelandic skies, is a truly unforgettable experience. Why go on the Northern Lights Tour? • Majestic aurora borealis: Seek out the best viewing spots to witness the ethereal beauty of the Northern Lights. • Expert guidance: Benefit from knowledgeable guides who understand the science and folklore behind the auroras and can lead you to the best locations. • Photographic opportunities: Capture the swirling colours of the lights with the help of expert tips and capture stunning visual photos. • Cultural insights: Learn about the significance of the Northern Lights in Icelandic culture and mythology. Ready to arrange an unforgettable experience under the Arctic skies?

Discover the subterranean marvel of the Lava Tunnel, Raufarhólshellir, one of Iceland's longest and most prominent lava tubes. A mere 30-minute drive from Reykjavík, this geological wonder is open for exploration throughout the year. Why visit the Lava Tunnel? • Witness the raw beauty of a volcanic lava tube. • Learn about the powerful natural forces that shape our planet. • See natural ice sculptures up close during the winter months. Want to learn more about this experience?

The Golden Circle Day

The Golden Circle includes some of Iceland’s most stunning sights. Your guide will escort you to see the famous ‘Strokkur’ Geysir shoot a column of water up to 30 metres into the air every 4-8 minutes! After witnessing the Geysers, groups can visit this modern multimedia museum displaying the inexplicable natural wonders of Iceland, and even feel it with the earthquake simulator. 

You’ll also visit the magnificent Gullfoss (Golden Falls) waterfall, created where the river Hvítá tumbles and plunges into a crevice some 32 m deep. This full day also includes the historical and geological wonder that is Þingvellir National Park where you can make a unique walk between the American and Eurasian tectonic plates which are pulling apart at a rate of a few centimetres per year. 

Complete the day with a quick stop at the impressive Kerid Volcanic crater believed to be a cone volcano which erupted and emptied its magma reserve.

You can also choose to add a tour of Hellisheidi Power Plant, Friðheimar greenhouses or the Secret Lagoon to your geography Iceland field trip.

Friðheimar Greenhouse Cultivation Centre (can be added to the Golden Circle Day)

Visit the idyllic Friðheimar greenhouse cultivation centre, where students will learn about the magic behind growing delicious, pesticide-free tomatoes which are cultivated all year round using the latest technology, in an environmentally-friendly way: green energy, pure water and organic pest controls combine to produce fresh, healthy tomatoes.

Hellisheidi Power Plant (can be added to the Golden Circle Day)

The largest geothermal plant in the world, with the purpose of meeting increasing demand for electricity and hot water for space heating in the industrial and domestic sectors. Groups can take a tour and visit the Energy exhibition with its multimedia displays.

The Secret Lagoon (can be added to the Golden Circle Day)

What better way to start off your day that a relaxing soak outdoors in the warm waters of Iceland’s oldest swimming pool formed by the area's hot springs. There are new changing facilities, a café and viewing decking. This is much smaller than the Blue Lagoon but much cheaper and far less crowded.

South Shore Adventure Day

With your guide, drive along the south coast of Iceland, one of the country´s most scenic regions. Along the way you will stop at the majestic Seljalandsfoss waterfall, which is unique in that you can walk behind it and through to the other side (if it’s not icy). You’ll also stop and compare with the dramatic and much-photographed Skógafoss waterfall, with its 60m drop.

See the stunning Mýrdalsjökull glacier and approach its glacial snout Solheimajokull providing an excellent group opportunity to discuss the processes ongoing here. 

Students love paying a visit to Reynisfjara, a black volcanic beach with its dramatic Basalt columns rising up from the shore. There is a great view of the stunning Reynisdrangar rock formations rising up from the sea just offshore.

You can also choose to add a visit the Skógar folk museum to geography tours to Iceland, to get a taste of how Icelanders lived in centuries past, or Eyjafallajokull Volcano Museum dedicated to the eruption and resulting ash cloud in 2010.

The Lava Centre   (can be added to the South Shore Day)

Traverse the corridors, visit the exhibition halls and use the interactive displays at the Lava Centre to discover the colossal and complex natural forces that shape the Earth and began to create Iceland tens of millions of years ago.

Examine the various volcanoes, eruptions and lava flows, volcanic and rift systems, faults and glacial floods that make Iceland a showcase of volcanism.

The centre introduces the Katla Geopark plus Iceland's elaborate monitoring system for surveying volcanoes and earthquake zones.

LAVA - Iceland Volcano and Earthquake Centre is an interactive display of nature's epic forces that shape our planet and created Iceland. A visit includes; Volcano Corridor, Geology Globe, Earthquake Corridor, The Fiery Heart of Iceland, Lava Corridor, Intro to Volcanology, Ash Corridor, Site of Actual Volcanoes'.

Skogar Folk Museum (can be added to the South Shore Day)

If you want to get to know the Icelandic society and how the Icelandic people used to live and work, you should definitely make a stop at the museum at Skógar. The museum focusses on the 4 areas of Fisheries, Agriculture, Handcrafts and also Transport.

The Wonders of Reykjanes Day

Experience the geological marvels of Iceland with a day trip around the Reykjanes Peninsula, a landscape rich in volcanic and geothermal activity. This region, not far from the capital city of Reykjavík, is known for its astounding rugged beauty. Why go on the Wonders of Reykjanes day trip? • Unique geology: Situated on the Mid-Atlantic Ridge, the Reykjanes Peninsula is where the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates meet. • Geothermal phenomena: Witness the steamy wonder of the Seltún geothermal area, where boiling mud pots and vibrant mineral deposits create an otherworldly atmosphere. • Volcanic landscapes: Explore the freshly formed lava fields and craters from recent eruptions. • Iconic lighthouses: Visit the Reykjanesviti lighthouse, the oldest in Iceland, providing panoramic views of the coast and a backdrop to the dramatic volcanic rock formations. • Steaming hot springs: Relax in the world-famous Blue Lagoon, set amidst a surreal landscape of lava, its mineral-rich waters offering therapeutic benefits. • Educational museums: Optional visits to engaging museums such as the Viking World or the Icelandic Museum of Rock 'n' Roll can enrich your understanding of Iceland’s culture and history. Enquire about this trip to schedule your exploration of Reykjanes’ stark and stunning vistas. Whether you’re a geology enthusiast or simply in awe of nature’s artistry, this adventure promises to be an insightful journey through one of Iceland’s most fascinating regions.

• Adventure Tours
• Culture & Traditions Tours
• Food & Drink Tours
• Geothermal Pools Tours
• Museums & Exhibits Tours
• Northern Lights Tours
• Reykjavik Walking Tours
• Sightseeing Tours
• Featured Multi-Day Tours
• Other Multi-Day Tours
• Custom Tours
• Guide & Travel Assistance Service
• Íslenskar Upplifanir
• Private Adventure Tours
• Private Culture & Traditions Tours
• Private Food & Drink Tours
• Private Geothermal Pools Tours
• Private Northern Lights Tours
• Private Reykjavik Walking Tours
• Private Sightseeing Tours
• East Iceland
• Golden Circle
• North of Iceland
• Reykjanes Peninsula
• South Iceland
• West Iceland
• Corporate Tours
• Airport Transfers & Transport
• Travel Guides
• Responsible Tourism
• North Iceland
• DMC Services
• Transfers & Transport

About Your Friend In Reykjavik

All of our guides are expert locals, most of whom graduated from the tour guide school in Iceland, so please don’t be shy! Ask us anything and everything when you join any of the Reykjavik walking tours .

So much care and expertise have gone into all of our tours, and we sincerely believe they are some of the best city walking tours you can do while visiting Iceland.

Hi, I'm Valur Your Friend in Reykjavik.

I´m a certified tour guide, manager & owner.

Consider the team of Your Friend In Reykjavik,  your friends, here to show you around and ensure you have a great time.

Our tours are designed to show you the best of our city and to teach you about our country through exciting stories. We want you to enjoy Icelandic hospitality at its finest, but most importantly, we want you to have fun! Join us and share our passion for history, food, beer, and making new friends.

Your Friends in Reykjavik

All our guides are expert locals so they really know the heart of Reykjavik. Being raised in Iceland makes a difference as we know firsthand our customs and cuisine.

We know how to entertain as well as educate like hundreds of 5-star reviews can confirm. We’ve got a passion for our country, it’s history, food, beer, and mythology and we try to make sure you will love Iceland like us.

You are also in safe hands with us as all of us are official tour guides and / or with years of experience guiding in Iceland.

Nearly all of us are also members of the Icelandic Tourist Guide Association which is granted only to those who have passed a comprehensive one-year training program, approved by the Icelandic Ministry of Education.

The Expert Staff & Guides of Your Friend In Reykjavik

Addý is a certified tour guide in English and French, a graduate from the Iceland Tourist Guide School.

Asta is a Certified guide from EHÍ and speaks Icelandic, English, French and German.

Meet Ástþór (or just Astor, if the spelling scares you), your food and beer guide.

Bardi is a certified tour guide graduated from The Iceland Tourist Guide School. He was born and raised in a small fishing village near the international airport.

Einar Steinn

Einar was born and raised in Reykjavík and is a full-time tour guide, seasoned tourism writer, and translator.

Ester is a certified tour guide and was born and brought up in Iceland but lived abroad for several years.

Ester is certified tour guide both in Iceland and in Luxembourg. She is a member of the Icelandic Touristguide Association.

Garðar is a certified tour guide graduated from The Iceland Tourist Guide School. He was born in Norway

Gudni is a certified tour guide, born and raised in Reykjavík. Hiking, cross-country skiing and volleyball are among his hobbies.

Hanna Kristín is in the guidance school in Kópavogur and will graduate now in May 2022. She was born in the north of Iceland in Akureyri, the capital of the north.

Helga is a journalist specialising in content writing for social media. She was born in Copenhagen but raised in downtown Reykjavik.

Hlif (Shield or Protection) is a Certified guide from MK and speaks Icelandic, English and Italian

Ingibjörg is a Certified Tour Guide and Your Friend In Reykjavik

Kevin is our Product Manager and the guy who makes technical magic happen behind the scenes.

Neil McMahon

Neil is a Certified guide from MK but has also been a teacher at this guiding school in Iceland for around 35 years.

Ólafur Sveins

Olafur is a Certified guide from MK. Like the majority of Icelanders, he enjoys singing and is a member of two Choirs.

Snæfríður Tinna

Snaefridur tinna is certified tour guide but also an artist and an active crossfitter, owning her own Crossfit Gym. She loves the outdoors

Sólveig is a certified tour guide and a middle school teacher who was born and raised in Reykjavík.

Stefan loves walking around town, talking to people and telling stories! So after thinking about which job he could do for fun, tour guiding was a perfect fit!

Stefan Orn or Stefan the Eagle is an experienced professional tour guide. He is also a musician, radio host, actor and director

Steinunn handles Sales & Service, answering your questions and ensuring guides and customers are always in the right place at the right time.

Valur is a name for Falcon in Icelandic and he is the manager & chief guide with Your Friend in Reykjavik.

Zofia is a geographer (University of Warsaw), foodie, and Iceland lover

us women's tour

The Athleta Presents GOLD OVER AMERICA TOUR starring Simone Biles is a celebration of world-class gymnasts, women and men, who represent the finest of the sport and wish to inspire the next generation. Straight from the world stage, Biles will be joined by an exceptional team. The Athleta Presents GOLD OVER AMERICA TOUR promises a high-octane, exhilarating experience, with displays of athletic ...

Qualifying. There were 1,897 entries received for this year's U.S. Women's Open, just over a hundred shy of the record of more than 2,000 entries submitted last year, with the championship ...

Official home of the 79th U.S. Women's Open golf championship at Lancaster Country Club (Pa.), from May 28 - June 2, 2024. Find tickets, follow your favorite players, view highlights, leader board, and more!

It is one of the LPGA's five major championships. Yardage: 6,546. Allisen Corpuz joined Michelle Wie, her fellow Hawaiian, as a U.S. Women's Open champion, shooting a final-round, 3-under-par 69 ...

LPGA Tour. ISPS Handa Women's Scottish Open ... Lauren Coughlin of the United States poses with the trophy after the final round of the CPKC Women's Open at Earl Grey Golf Club on July 28, 2024 in ...

Official leader board of the 79th U.S. Women's Open Golf Championship, held at Lancaster Country Club in Lancaster, Pa., from May 30 - June 2, 2024. Live scoring, shot tracking, highlights and in-depth statistics.

How to watch the 2023 U.S. Women's Open. In the UK, you can watch live coverage of the U.S. Women's Open on Sky Sports Mix, Sky Sports Main Event and Sky Sports Golf. Coverage starts on Thursday June 6 at 9pm (BST) on Sky Sports Mix. There will be 24 hours of live coverage across the four days of the Major.

The official home of the 2024 U.S. Senior Women's Open at Fox Chapel Golf Club in Pittsburgh, Pa.. From August 1-4, see the top senior women's golfers in the world vie for the championship. Find tickets, check the real-time leaderboard, watch highlights, keep up with the latest stories, news and more!

Follow the latest news, results, highlights, and competitions of the U.S. Women's National Soccer team, the four-time FIFA World Cup champions.

The 2024 US Women's Open final leaderboard is headed by winner Yuka Saso, who topped the LPGA Tour leaderboard this week with a win in the USGA-run major championship at Lancaster Country Club in ...

U.S. Women's Open Featured Films. 2008 U.S. Women's Open Film: INBEE-LIEVABLE! Jun 29, 2020. 2013 U.S. Women's Open Film: Inbee-Lievable Again! Dec 17, 2019. Watch live featured groups coverage of the 2024 U.S. Women's Open Presented by Ally at Lancaster Country Club from May 30 - June 2, 2024.

The tour was founded in 2000 by 25 veteran LPGA Tour professionals with the goal of continuing to showcase the talents of some of the greatest women golfers of all time. Legends of the LPGA members, including 15 LPGA and World Golf Hall of Fame members, have combined for over 750 LPGA Tour victories including 84 major championships.

The U.S. Women's Open, one of 15 national golf championships conducted by the United States Golf Association (USGA), is the oldest of the LPGA Tour's five major championships, which includes the Chevron Championship, Women's PGA Championship, Women's Open Championship, and The Evian Championship.. Established 78 years ago in 1946, the U.S. Women's Open is the only event to have been recognized ...

The official home of the 2024 U.S. Women's Amateur Golf Championship at Southern Hills Country Club, in Tulsa, Okla.. Watch the best amateur players in the world compete from August 5-11. See the full leader board, highlights, stories and more from the 124th U.S. Women's Amateur!

Olympic Golf leaderboard and overview for women's 2024 competition.

Pos Player Scores Total To Par Prize Money Star; My Leaderboard: Full Leaderboard. 1: Yuka Saso : 68 - 71 - 69 - 68 276-4: $2,400,000.00: Add

Tickets are in high demand in 2024, with a near-record crowd expected at Lancaster Country Club, and a similar rush for tickets is expected next year when the tournament heads to Erin Hills from May 29-June 1, 2025. The Wisconsin public course only opened in 2006 but has already hosted several high-profile events including the 2008 US Women's ...

Visit ESPN to view the U.S. Women's Open pres. by Ally Golf leaderboard from the LPGA tour.

SoCal FC. Sunday, July 21st, 2024 @ 3 PM - UCLA Drake Stadium, Los Angeles, CA - Wrexham AFC Women v. Tigres Femenil U19. Wrexham AFC Women's U.S. Tour is made possible by title sponsor Ally, a ...

Her 27 points consist of 18 LPGA Tour victories (18 points), two major championships (4), two Vare Trophies (2), two LPGA Player of the Year honors (2) and an Olympic gold medal (1).

There was another 2024 Paris Olympics fairytale brewing after Round 1 of the women's golf tournament at Le Golf National ended Wednesday. Celine Boutier of France raced out to a three-shot lead ...

The full list of announced future sites for the U.S. Women's Open Golf Championship. Get information on venues, tickets, volunteering, hospitality and more. Lancaster Country Club • Lancaster, Pa • May 30 - June 2, 2024

2025 U.S. Women's Open. Experience the excitement of the 2025 U.S. Women's Open at Erin Hills Golf Course in Wisconsin. With an Official Ticket Package from USGA Experiences, you can enjoy multiple days of golf on this championship course, along with access to VIP hospitality venues, all-inclusive food and beverages, behind-the-scenes tours ...

Pos Player Scores Total To Par Prize Money Star; My Leaderboard: Full Leaderboard. 1: Moriya Jutanugarn : 67 - 69 - 64 - 66 266-22: $262,500.00: Add

About Us Sponsors Product Registration ... 2024 PWBA Tour Championship Week: Thunderbowl Lanes 4200 Allen Rd., Allen Park, MI, 48101: 2025 Schedule . Date Event Location; ... 2025 U.S. Women's Open: Sun Valley Lanes 321 Victory Ln, Lincoln, NE, 68528: July 09 - 13, 2025

Charlotte Kool of The Netherlands, wearing the overall leader's yellow jersey, crosses the finish line to win the second stage of the Tour de France Women cycling race with start in Dordrecht and ...

The Tour de France Femmes avec Zwift is the women's version of the Tour de France, revamped and returned to the calendar as of two years ago, and anticipation is high after two thrillers in the ...

The Women's WorldTour team Human Powered Health will be kitted out with a limited edition Factor Ostro Vam bikes for this year's Tour de France Femmes, designed in collaboration with Maisie Wilen. The team's Factor Ostro Vam bikes feature a SRAM Red AXS groupset and Black Inc's wheels, complete with Goodyear Eagle F1 tyres and Selle Italia saddles.

ISPS Handa Women's Scottish Open Ayrshire, Scotland. Aug 22. AIG Women's Open Fife, Scotland

Gold medalist Rebeca Andrade, center, of Brazil, celebrates on the podium with silver medalist Simone Biles, left, of the United States, and Jordan Chiles, also of the United States, during medal ceremony for the women's artistic gymnastics individual floor finals at Bercy Arena at the 2024 Summer Olympics, Monday, Aug. 5, 2024, in Paris, France.

Your Guide to Reykjavik & Iceland

Find places, shops, restaurants and things to do, discount coupons, list of happy hours, browse our book 2025.

Pubs & Nightlife

Tours & activities, towns & places, accommodation, driving in iceland, search the map.

• Design Your Program

Iceland School Trips & Projects

Program Finder

Destination, antarctica & the arctic, australasia, central america, indian subcontinent, middle east, north america, south america, alternative schoolies, indigenous immersion, physical challenges, regenerative travel, service learning, the duke of edinburgh's international award, our projects, advanced search.

The tiny island national of Iceland punches well above its weight when considering opportunities for a school trip abroad.

Discover the many experiential learning options on offer, from the vibrant capital of Reykjavik to the lonely beaches and storybook villages along the coastline, or venture even deeper into the interior to enjoy spectacular uninhabited wilderness of the interior. Rugged, remote and otherworldly - this is a thoroughly unique destination packed full learning outside the classroom opportunities.

Allow your students to discover Icelandic culture using atmospheric Reykjavik as a base. From here we can organise fieldwork experiences that support your curriculum: explore surreal moonscapes punctuated by gigantic glaciers, hot springs and glacial lakes so icy-blue they seem Photoshopped.

For active students consider designing a custom itinerary that will see them hiking among serene fjords, through extensive lava fields and across huge moss-filled volcanic craters. Of course no trip is complete without a soak in the spectacular geothermal waters of the Blue Lagoon, one of Iceland's most iconic attractions.

Talk to our educational travel experts about tailoring a school trip to Iceland to suit your budget and needs.

School trip and project ideas in Iceland

England, France, Iceland & Germany: Geography & History Tour

Activities:.

Adventure Touring

Iceland: Footsteps of Thor

Introductory

Iceland Lava Eduventure

Introductory to Moderate

More about Iceland

• Iceland projects

Iceland highlights

Why travel with us.

• Responsible travel

Quality Services

• Leaders in the field
• Custom made itineraries
• Related articles

Testimonials

Important information, popular activities.

Self Guided Walking

Self Guided Cycling

Guided Walking

Guided Cycling

Hike the Laugavegur Trail

Skaftafell National Park

Thingvellir National Park

Gullfoss, the Golden Waterfall

Blue Lagoon Geothermal Spa

Popular regions in iceland.

Safety - our number 1 priority

Expert leaders, risk assessments, quality inclusions and your financial security all come standard when travelling with World Expeditions Schools.

Minimising risk

Our industry leading risk management procedures have become a skill that we continue to refine. Thanks to careful management and thorough consultation with local partners our track record is exemplary.

Service Learning specialists

School Service Learning Community Projects offer a unique way to experience genuine cultural interaction while also providing real tangible benefits to underprivileged communities. Every Service Learning project is guided by the UN Sustainable Development Goals.

Well thought out, tailored itineraries

If itinerary design was an art form our work would be hanging in galleries around the world. At the very least it is most certainly a science and at World Expeditions Schools we have years of destinational experience to ensure your school travel itinerary is safe and achievable.

Trusted accommodations

We only utilise trusted accommodation on a twin-share basis (unless otherwise requested) which we know to be clean, reliable, in a safe location and are regularly inspected by local authorities. Wherever possible, adjoining rooms are provided to ensure that students are provided with adequate supervision.

When camping, your group will be provided with all group camping equipment including tents, quality sleeping bags, sleeping mats, eating utensils, kit bags as well as three hearty meals per day prepared by our trained cooks in a hygienic and controlled environment.

Reliable, private internal transport

We only use trusted transport providers and always use private buses. Using private buses not only ensures we can control the safety of the service on your educational travel trip, but it also provides a measure of flexibility in our trips. Each group is provided vehicles that are dedicated to their needs. It also means the group is not taking seats away from locals who are in more need of the local services.

Experienced & highly trained local guides

We believe local guides provide the best experience to your students. Their local knowledge is unparalleled in terms of interpreting the natural and cultural environments, outlining the history of a region, engaging local dialogue and also re-arranging services if required.

Many of our local guides have worked for our company for a decade or longer. They are first aid trained, experienced, passionate about their country and we have the utmost confidence in their ability to provide an experience for your school better than any western guide can.

Related Articles

• Where to Go & Weather
• Dialing Code

Electricity

• Health & Safety

Where to Go

Trek the Laugavegur Trail—one of the world’s most beautiful hiking routes—across a dramatic geothermal landscape that offers a fantastic experiential learning opportunity

Let your students soak in the spectacular geothermal waters of the Blue Lagoon, one of the nation’s most iconic scenes

Marvel at the sight of Gullfoss, a thundering glacier-fed waterfall; and learn about the impressive volcanic landscapes surrounding Laki, Iceland's most famous volcano

Take your school group to the majestic Skaftafell National Park, home to half of Europe’s largest ice cap and views of Iceland's highest peak

Experience the magic of Iceland in winter, exploring hot springs, geysers and frozen landscapes in winter-adapted super-Jeeps or by snowshoe hiking

Time in Iceland

Iceland is on standard GMT/UTC

Icelandic (official), English, Nordic languages, German

Icelandic Krona

International Dialing Code

Electricity in Iceland is 230 Volts, at 50 hertz. The most common pin type is C. (2 round prong).

Visas are not required for citizens of Australia, Canada, USA and New Zealand for up to 90 days in a period of 180 days for all Schengen countries (see https://tinyurl.com/lkho3qg for countries part of the Schengen). Please ensure your passport is stamped on arrival in the Schengen area. For all other nationalities and for longer stays in countries covered by the Schengen Agreement (Australian New Zealand, Canadian and US passport holders), please contact the relevant embassy. Stays of longer than 90 days in the Schengen area require a long stay visa for the country you are spending most time in. However long stay visas are unlikely to be issued unless there is a valid reason (eg. studying in country). Unfortunately we cannot assist in obtaining visas for long stays due to individual country visa requirements.

Your safety is our number one concern. Our safety track record is exemplary thanks to careful management and thorough consultation with local partners. Our industry leading risk management procedures have become a skill that we continue to refine. Our leaders in the field are highly trained and have safety as their number one priority. Expert leaders, risk assessments, quality inclusions and your financial security all come standard when you travel with us.

Please refer to our Travel Advisory page for updates on recent events, travel warnings and advice.

We strongly recommend that all clients take out travel insurance at the time of booking to cover against sickness, accident, loss of baggage, unexpected alterations to travel arrangements and travel disruption, emergency evacuation, cancellations, etc. Insurance information is enclosed with your pre-departure information. Please contact us if you would like to obtain a quote for your trip duration.

We suggest that you consult your doctor, local government inoculation centre or a travel medical specialist in order to get the most current advice regarding vaccination requirements.

Money and valuables should always be stored safely when travelling. Keep your passport with you at all times and do not leave it in your main luggage. You will need it to change money and check into hotels. Where safety deposit boxes are available, we recommend that you use them. Keep jewellery and valuables to a minimum.

Ready to tailor a school trip to Iceland?

Our educational travel experts are ready to help you tailor an itinerary or service learning project in Iceland to suit your school’s needs and budget. Contact us today to receive a free consultation.

Assisted over 14,000 Students Worldwide

Since the 1980's, we   have helped students from around the globe to experience the world's most exciting destinations, allowing them to travel, give, grow .

400+ Service Learning Programs

Together with students, we have completed over 400 Service Learning programs in developing countries. We will always continue to support causes including social justice, animal welfare, the environment and more.

Fully Customised School Travel Programs

Want to include service learning, your school curriculum and a physical challenge, or any of the above? Contact us and we can design a program fully catered for your students and budget.

Safety and Support - Our #1 Priority

Every school receives a detailed risk management plan that is guided by government advisories and the local partners we work with. We never compromise on the safety of your students to reduce the price of the program.

Iceland Travel Guide

Find out all there is to see, do, and taste in Iceland with our handy Travel Guide. Explore the categories below and learn all about the Land of Fire and Ice. Whether you want to know what to pack, how to predict the weather (hint: you can’t), or just if you need to tip, you’ll find the answer here.

Practical info

Facts about Iceland

Where? How big? How many? Get the answers to these questions and more.

Weather & climate

How cold it is, when it snows, and what to pack.

Northern Lights

What causes the Northern Lights? And when and where can you see them?

Nature & landscape

Icelandic nature offers an incredible variety of landscapes in a small country. Find out the best ways to experience these.

People & culture

What makes Icelanders tick? And what is their history?

Plug into the Icelandic cultural calendar and experience the country the way the locals do.

Food & restaurants

Get all the latest info on the Icelandic food scene, including what foods to try and what to avoid.

Bars & nightlife

Get your party shoes on and hit the dancefloor at one of Reykjavík’s buzzing venues.

Spas & hot springs

Dive right into Iceland’s bathing scene at one of the many pools or lagoons around the country.

Everything you need to know about currency, cash, and card payments in Iceland.

Rules of the road, traffic signs, driving conditions, and more.

Packing list for Iceland

Do I need sunscreen, a waterproof jacket, or both? Be ready for anything with our handy packing list.

Health & Safety

Stay safe and healthy in Iceland with these essential tips.

Iceland's Top Attractions

West Iceland

Snæfellsnes peninsula

North Iceland

East Iceland

South Iceland

Reykjanes peninsula

Top attractions in South Iceland

Golden circle.

Vík í Mýrdal

Seljalandsfoss

Þingvellir national park.

Explore ways to travel

Get inspired, iceland in summer vs winter.

Which season is best to visit? Get the lowdown.

5 Reasons to Book with Iceland Tours

Iceland Tours is a Reykjavík-based travel agency offering travelers incredible experiences in the place we call home.

Sky Lagoon in Iceland – Your Ultimate Guide

Find out what's on offer at Reykjavík's trendiest spa.

13 Best Places to Visit in Iceland

Don’t miss these 13 best spots to go in the Land of Fire and Ice.

#icelandmyway

See what travelers like you have been up to lately on Instagram.

10 Iceland Travel Tips for an Amazing Vacation

Exploring Iceland By Yourself

Exploring iceland with a guided tour, 10. get to know the locals.

• 9. Don't Try To Buy Beer in Supermarkets

8. Self Catering - Cook Your Food

7. rent a car and customize your trip, 6. get off the beaten track, 5. attend a small town festival, 4. sleep in a farmhouse, 3. camping in iceland, 2. bathe in a natural hot spring, 1. sightseeing under the midnight sun.

Read our top 10 Iceland travel tips. Foreign friends often ask me for help planning their Iceland trip. This article includes my best advice. Learn where to go, what to do, and how to prepare for travel to Iceland. Find out the best way to see Iceland with my top tips for exploring my beautiful country.

Different people enjoy different things, and Iceland has much more to offer than can be seen and done during a single visit.

For many, traveling to Iceland is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. However, knowing what to do in Iceland and taking advantage of your time can be challenging with so many options available.

Once you've done your homework, it's worth looking at the best tours and vacation packages in Iceland to ensure you enjoy it to the fullest.

Top Adventure Tours in Iceland

Best ice cave tour in vatnajokull glacier starting from jokulsarlon glacier lagoon, inside the volcano thrihnukagigur tour with transfer from reykjavik, 11-hour snaefellsnes peninsula tour in small bus with transfer from reykjavik.

Self-drive tours are a great way to travel in Iceland on your own while still having an itinerary planned out for you. Many people feel it's the best way to see Iceland. Your accommodations and rental car will be booked for you but how you spend your time each day is up to you. 

Booking a self-drive tour lets you visit attractions during quieter times and avoid crowds, which enables you to make the most of your Iceland visit. The rental cars are sanitized thoroughly between uses, and you can rest assured that other local businesses such as hotels and restaurants do the same. 

If your idea of a vacation does not have you driving yourself, you may want to choose an Iceland travel package that includes transportation. Many Iceland vacation packages offer transportation and accommodations to various destinations around the country. 

As you plan to travel to Iceland, take note of our top 10 tips before setting out on your adventure. 

Despite living in a cold climate and an unforgiving environment, Icelanders are generally warm and friendly and treat strangers kindly.

According to the World Economic Forum, Iceland is both the most peaceful country in the world and the friendliest to visit.

Giving directions is the unofficial national sport, and most Icelanders wholeheartedly welcome the opportunity to help out people who need a little help while they travel in Iceland.

So whether you are in dire need of help or just want to have a friendly chat, don't shy away from striking up a conversation with a total stranger on our shores. It's a terrific way to get a sense of Icelandic culture and society.

Also, since all Icelandic students must learn English before they are allowed to graduate from elementary school, a language barrier will rarely, if ever, be an issue.

On your trip, it may also be worth experiencing the cozy surroundings of a traditional Icelandic cabin as one of your overnight stays. These are warm summer houses Icelanders often enjoy visiting to get away from the hustle and bustle of urban life.

If you feel awkward about approaching a total stranger in a foreign country, you can always start by contacting an Icelandic local online through our page .

9. Don't Try To Buy Beer in Supermarkets

If you plan on drinking during your Iceland visit, you need to know about Iceland's unique alcohol laws. Since beer consumption was prohibited in Iceland for the greater part of the 20th century, the Icelandic drinking culture is still in its infancy.

Despite the great nightlife in Reykjavik , many Icelanders have a strange relationship with alcohol. Alcoholic beverages are exclusively sold in state-run stores called Vinbudin (The Wine Store).

Supermarket shelves, on the other hand, are stocked with various brands of relatively cheap "near-beer." These are products that aim to replicate the taste of beer while eliminating its intoxicating effects.

Many travelers don't know this as it's not often mentioned in Iceland travel guides. As a result, it's relatively common to see foreign visitors victoriously pushing shopping carts full of the watered out near-beer through Icelandic supermarket aisles, oblivious to the true nature of their loot.

The near-beer might keep the party from taking off with a bang, but the upside is that it will never keep you from getting out of bed the following morning.

It's worth noting that this is one of several tourist traps in Iceland to avoid.

Although Iceland now boasts numerous fine restaurants worth a visit, eating out is one of the least economical activities you can undertake.

Eating out in Iceland can quickly eat away your entire travel budget. As with most things in Iceland, eating out and alcohol, in particular, can be pretty expensive for travelers.

Top Holiday Apartments in Iceland

I do recommend eating out at least once during your stay. However, if you're traveling on a strict budget, you'd be well advised to take advantage of lunch offers.  

If you don't want to eat your way through your holiday savings, you should buy your own groceries and cook your own food.

By making use of the kitchens found in every hostel, guesthouse, and campsite in Iceland, your grocery bill for two to three days will be the price of a single meal in an average restaurant. 

I recommend cooking from Icelandic ingredients and buying food items that are unique to Iceland, such as the lamb, the skyr, and the fresh fish. 

You should also never buy bottled water.

Iceland is lucky enough to have a very high-quality freshwater supply running from every faucet. This will help you save money for the more memorable parts of your trip.

Top Cottages in Iceland

Icelandic weather is highly dynamic and unpredictable.

When heading out on a domestic holiday, many Icelanders have the habit of "following the weather." This means that they simply drive towards the part of the country which has the best weather at the moment of departure.

No Iceland trip should be considered complete without time spent on the open country roads. You should consider renting a car on your trip to experience total freedom and control the pace of your journey.

Self-drive tours offer the best flexibility for your trip. You'll be able to customize your experience and change plans when needed based on the weather patterns. This way, you can allow more time for the places you're enjoying.

The total length of Iceland's Ring Road is 828 miles (1,332 kilometers).

This means that technically you could drive around the entire island in a couple of days. However, this wouldn't leave you any time to stop, explore, and take in the sights. In my opinion, you should spend at least ten days driving the Ring Road .

If, however, you're planning to spend a week or less in Iceland, I recommend limiting your travel to one region. This way, you can take advantage of some great adventures along the way.

The Snaefellsnes Peninsula, often referred to as "Iceland in miniature" because of its diverse landscapes, could easily be covered in two days.

Such a journey would allow you to experience many extraordinary sites. 

This could include: 

• The famous Kirkjufell  mountain (as featured in "Game of Thrones")
• Snaefellsjokull  glacier
• Arnarstapi  village
• The beautiful black church in Budir

Top Snaefellsnes Tours

Iceland is dotted with unique places where you can find solitude and total tranquility.

If you choose to venture away from the most popular tourist spots , you are bound to experience a sublime encounter with the true spirit of the land.

Explore the Eastfjords and Westfjords, Iceland's oldest landmasses.

The Eastfjords and Westfjords contain ancient fishing outposts, spectacular mountain views, and countless hiking trails awaiting travelers seeking an authentic travel experience.

You would also be well advised to explore Iceland's magnificent interior, known as the Icelandic Highlands .

Covering more than half of the country, the Highlands are home to many of Iceland's most sublime landscapes. The majority of Iceland's most beautiful natural attractions can be found there.  

The Icelandic Highlands is an uninhabited natural sanctuary situated far from human settlements.

These untouched natural expanses offer a chance to connect with nature on a level that can only be experienced in a handful of exceptional places on this planet.

Traveling into the Highlands takes you away from crowds. For this reason, you should always prepare thoroughly for your journey or join a Highland Tour in the company of an experienced guide.

It is imperative to understand that the Icelandic wilderness is as beautiful as it is fragile.

Due to the high volume of volcanic ash, the soil is exceptionally vulnerable and susceptible to erosion. With the ever-growing number of visitors coming to Iceland to seek out the untouched wilderness, many areas have become subject to unprecedented strain. Please help us protect the delicate environment by always considering the fragile flora of our island, wherever you may find yourself.

Iceland's wilderness is unique because it is mostly intact and undisturbed. As Icelanders and visitors, it is our responsibility to do our best to keep it that way. Don't stray from the walking paths. And remember that off-road driving is forbidden in Iceland, and it's penalized with a fine or imprisonment.

This is because off-road driving is likely to cause soil degradation and, with it, irreversible damage to the fragile environment.

• See also:  20 Hidden Gems in Iceland

Due to general poverty and an under-developed transport system, Icelandic towns and villages were virtually isolated from one another up until the second half of the 20th century.

The population was extremely sparse, with the average person rarely straying far from their place of birth. Consequently, each small town developed its own characteristics in accordance with its natural environment.

Although Iceland has been thoroughly modernized and the general population has become increasingly homogenous, the townspeople of rural Iceland remain devoted to their cultural roots. Throughout the year, festivals are held in almost every small Icelandic town and village , which thematically reflect the historical and environmental soil from which they sprang.

Siglufjordur , for example, hosts the Danish Days festival in mid-August, honoring the town's historical connections with Denmark. In contrast, Dalvik hosts Great Fish Day in the north celebrating seafood.

Each town occupies its own space on the calendar, attracting visitors to join the townspeople to celebrate local music, food, dance, and drink.

If you are open-minded and enjoy a gathering of good people, you should pick a festival or one of Iceland's best events that fit your schedule and join in the fun.

Spending a night in one of the many farm-stays around Iceland is another excellent way to get an authentic and first-hand feel for Icelandic culture. A significant number of farmers offer bed and breakfast lodgings to travelers.

Farm stays offer various options ranging from simple shared rooms to private huts and cottages. It's also worth noting that locally sourced food is almost always available.

Many farmers also offer horse riding tours and guided walks, and some are even willing to let you participate in the farm activities.

Remember that it is always better to book a farm holiday well in advance , especially if you want to secure the most affordable accommodation.

There's no better way to spend a summer night in Iceland than in a tent.

Camping is a fool-proof method of gaining and maintaining your necessary contact with nature. Nothing comes close to the experience of lying in your sleeping bag after a long day of traveling while being lulled to sleep by the wildlife's peaceful evening song.

And since most Icelandic towns and villages have their own campsite , there will always be a place where you can set up your tent.

Camping with three or fewer tents is permitted on uncultivated public land for a single night unless you see a sign to the contrary. However, please note that wild camping in Iceland's three national parks is strictly forbidden. You should never camp close to or on farms without seeking permission. However, most farmers are willing to host campers for a minimal fee.

Remember to respect the environment and always take the fragile nature of the Icelandic vegetation into consideration when setting up camp.

Please be aware that camping in the wilds of Iceland is not legal if you are in a campervan, tent trailer, or collapsible camper . If you're camping in one of these vehicles, you must use one of the many dedicated campsites around the country each night. 

If you decide to stray off the beaten track and go far into the wilderness, you should always notify someone of your travel plans beforehand and prepare yourself for any and all kinds of weather.

Remember that there is no bad weather in Iceland, only bad clothing.

If you're considering trying wild camping in Iceland, we highly recommend you educate yourself further on the dangers of Icelandic nature in advance. This will help you make the most of your experience while remaining safe.

Camping in Iceland can transform your trip and allow you to enjoy Iceland's stunning surroundings and wondrous terrains more flexibly. 

Outdoor public bathing in warm pools is a deep-rooted Icelandic tradition, dating back to the Viking days of the original settlement. In Iceland, public bathing is much more than a mere pastime activity.

Icelandic pools and public baths are community centers where people of all ages and professions gather to catch up with friends, relax after a hard day of work, or recover from a long night of excessive indulgence.

I recommend visiting a public bath or a swimming pool at least once on your Iceland trip. Nothing comes close to finding a natural hot spring in the wilderness and taking in the energy straight from nature's core. 

There are several natural hot springs close to the greater Reykjavik area, including the warm river of Reykjadalur , which is a personal favorite.

There are many guided hot spring tours on offer . Two of the best are the Reykjadalur hot spring tour and the Landmannalaugar hiking and hot spring tour .

Top Hot Spring Tours in Iceland

You can expect some of Iceland's most popular attractions to be a bit crowded during the long summer days of the high season. But if you are indeed visiting in midsummer, you will be blessed by the unremitting midnight sun whose light lasts for 24 hours.

Taking advantage of the endless days by traveling at night will let you avoid the crowds and experience a personal, magical moment of timelessness in nature's amber embrace. 

The roads will be silent, the towns and villages asleep, and the stillness of the bright night air will be as enchanting as the wilderness it envelopes.

Those who do not feel comfortable traveling in Iceland alone at night can always seek the assistance of a handful of experienced guides who lead small groups on midnight sun tours .

In these cases, it's often better to combine the midnight sun with some of Iceland's most dramatic landscapes and once-in-a-lifetime activities. We suggest Golden Circle tours , horse riding tours , and midnight sun mountain hiking tours.  

If you are not used to the bright summer nights of the Arctic and want to sleep during the night, remember to pack a sleeping mask. A must under the midnight sun; it will help your body know when to go to sleep by better managing your circadian rhythm.

Take advantage of our top Iceland travel tips, tread carefully, be well, and have a wonderful stay!

Popular articles

Guide to Iceland | The Story of the Leading Travel Agency of Iceland

The Complete Guide to the Midnight Sun in Iceland

Top 20 Most Beautiful Waterfalls in Iceland

22 Photos of the Aurora in Iceland

Mountains in Iceland

Other interesting articles.

Is it Safe to Travel to Iceland in 2024?

The Top 11 Souvenirs from Iceland

Tourist Information Centers in Reykjavik

Download Iceland’s biggest travel marketplace to your phone to manage your entire trip in one place

Scan this QR code with your phone camera and press the link that appears to add Iceland’s biggest travel marketplace into your pocket. Enter your phone number or email address to receive an SMS or email with the download link.

Top things to do in Iceland

Book your complete trip with the best companies only

Explore an Ice Cave

Find the Northern Lights

Go on a Road Trip

Do the Golden Circle

Visit the Blue Lagoon

See the Glacier Lagoon

South Coast Tours

Visit Reykjavik

Iceland Private Tours & Local Tour Guides

Plan a trip to iceland with local tour guides, and reykjavik, keflavik and more., popular iceland tour destinations.

Popular Iceland Tour Guides

My name is Adnan Mehmood.I am thrilled & honored to be your personal tour guide/host . As a lover of exploration & discovery, I have always had a passion for traveling & learning about different cultures. I have been fortunate enough to visit many countries around the world, but my heart truly belongs to Reykjavik, where I have been living from last 6 years .With years of experience leading tours for some of the top tour operators in Iceland. I specializes in organizing private tours that cater to the unique interests of my clients, giving them an unforgettable experience in Iceland. When I am not out exploring the world,or creating personalized experiences for my clients . you can find me indulging in my hobbies, which include hiking, photography, and trying new foods. I believe that the best way to experience a new place is to immerse yourself in its culture and try the local cuisine. My passion for storytelling and knowledge of Icelandic history and culture quickly made me a favorite among tourists. With my friendly personality and adventurous spirit, I have led tours all over Iceland, from the infamous Golden Circle to Northern Lights Tour , to the remote Westfjords. From hiking glaciers to searching for the Northern Lights, my private tours offer a unique and personalized experience tailor-made to preferences & interests of my clients. What sets me apart from other tour guides is my extensive knowledge of the area and its history. I have spent years researching and learning about the local culture, traditions, and landmarks. One of my favorite things about being a guide is sharing insider tips and local secrets with my clients. Whether it's a hidden gem that only the locals know about or a unique perspective on a well-known landmark, I am always eager to share my knowledge and provide you with a one-of-a-kind experience. So, let's embark on this adventure together and make memories that will last a lifetime!                                                                                                                                  

I've been a driver/guide since 1988 and still love my job! I used to lecture tourism related subjects at two universities and I was the head of the Iceland Tourist Guide School. Today I focus on my private tour business and would love to show you around my native country Iceland. I do day tours from Reykjavik and tours around the entire country with overnight stays when requested for groups big and small. Please do not hesitate to contact me.                                                                                                                                  

Popular iceland private tours.

Reykjavik : Private Day Tour of Golden Circle

You'll get the chance to experience some of iceland's most stunning natural wonders in a way that is both immersive & personalized. this tour is perfect for anyone who wants to make the most of their time in iceland & see all the best sights in one day. led by an experienced local guide, you'll learn about iceland's fascinating history & unique geology. visit iconic geysir, the breathtaking gullfoss waterfall, & the historic thingvellir national park & 3000 years old kerid volcanic crator..

Private Day Tour of Iceland's South Coast

This is personalized tour that takes you on a journey through the stunning landscapes of iceland's southern region.but what really makes our tour unique is the flexibility we offer. as a private tour, we can tailor the experience to your interests and preferences. want to spend more time hiking along the glaciers no problem want to stop for a photo op at a picturesque village we've got you covered. our knowledgeable guides are there to ensure you have an unforgettable adventure.

Reykjavik : Private Tour for Northern Lights Hunt

Embark on a once-in-a-lifetime adventure with our private northern lights tour. you'll have the opportunity to witness one of the most awe-inspiring natural phenomena on earth in the comfort and privacy of your own group. our expert guide will take you to the best locations to view the northern lights, ensuring an unforgettable experience. with our small group sizes, you'll enjoy an intimate tour away from the crowds & have plenty of opportunities for photos..

Golden Circle half day tour from Reykjavik

The golden circle route is the most popular tour in iceland hands down and for a good reason. this route includes gullfoss waterfall, strokkur spouting spring in the geysir geothermal area and thingvellir national park which is a unesco world heritage site. this route is best enjoyed accompanied by an experienced driver/guide..

New Iceland Private Tours

Northern Lights Evening Tour from Reykjavik

Join this tour in the search for the amazing northern lights sighting cannot be guaranteed but you increase your chances by traveling with an experienced professional local professional driver/guide (one person). if the conditions are poor on the night you've booked, we reschedule for another night, or issue a refund..

South Coast of Iceland full day tour to village Vik from Reykjavik

This amazing route includes waterfalls, black beaches, glaciers, volcanoes, and the picturesque vik village. this is the second most popular sightseeing trip to make out of reykjavik after the golden circle route., popular iceland private cars.

Private Airport Transfer from RVK Downtown to KEF

We take pride in making your journey more comfortable and convenient. our service is unique in many ways, and we would like to share with you what sets us apart from the rest. firstly, we offer a personalized service that caters to your needs, whether you are traveling alone or in a group. we understand that each traveler has unique requirements, and we strive to make your journey as comfortable as possible..

Private Airport Transfer - From KEF to RVK Downtown

We offer a personalized service that caters to your needs, whether you are traveling alone or in a group. we understand that each traveler has unique requirements, and we strive to make your journey as comfortable as possible. our experienced drivers are knowledgeable about the local area and can provide you with useful information about reykjavik and its surroundings. secondly, we offer a hassle-free experience from the moment you arrive at the airport until we drop you off at your destination..

Golden circle day tour from Reykjavik

Visit the amazing sights on the so called golden circle route, i.e. gullfoss waterfall, geysir geothermal area with strokkur spouting spring and thingvellir national park., iceland private tour guide, latest iceland articles.

Iceland's Golden Circle: The Ultimate Tour Guide

Reykjavik, Iceland

You might have heard about Iceland's iconic Golden Circle route, and if you have, you've got questions. Is it worth visiting? What are the must-see sights, and what else do you need to know? The Golden Circle is a must-see for anyone visiting Iceland. The...

The best tours and activities

With a real local of your choice

The option to personalize your tour

Just contact your favorite local

Only private tours!

So no group tours with strangers

More about Iceland

Things to do in iceland, more tours in iceland, top iceland destinations.

Stefan Tour Guide in Iceland

Stefan has a penchant for writing, and produdes mostly tourism-related submissions.

PUBLISHED ARTICLES:

• eTurboNews (online)
• Tourism Review (online)
• Iceland Tourist Guide Association’s Newsletter and website (online)
• Icelandic Times (online)
• University of Iceland Magazine
• Morgunblaðið newspaper in Iceland
• Fréttablaðið newspaper in Iceland

Andlit Þjóðar (The Face of a Nation). Handbook for tourist guides, 130 pgs.

ACADEMIC ARTICLES:

• Information and Communication Technologies in Tourism 2009. Edited by Wolfram Höpken, Ulrike Gretzel and Rob Law. Proceedings from the ENTER 2009 conference which took place at the RAI in Amsterdam 28-30 January 2009. “The Credibility of Online News: The case of the Iceland Tourist Guide Association’s Webside and e-Newsletter.” Pg. 407-418.
• Geo Info #33.  Compiled by Andrew U. Frank. Proceedings of the IWWPST 2006 which took place in Muenster Germany September 2006. Department of Geoinformation and Cartography. Vienna University of Technology. “Pre-Visit Internet Use Analysis of Foreign Visitors in Iceland: The Case of Isafold Tour Operator”. Pg. 113-130.
•  The 14th Nordic Symposium in Tourism and Hospitality Research , Akureyri September 22-25, 2005. “ Adult Education at the Iceland Tourist Guide School: Student profile, their motivation to study, and barriers to participation “.
• The Credibility of Online Journalism: The Case of the Iceland Tourist Guide’s Website and e-Newsletter (2007) . MA dissertation in partial fulfillment for MA in Journalism from the Faculty of Social Sciences at the University of Iceland. Supervisor: Professor Thorbjorn Broddason , Ph.D. Click here to read (PDF file 89 pages unpubl.). February 2007.
• The Travel Supply Route for the 21st Century: The Case of Isafold Tour Operator (2001). MA dissertation in partial fulfillment for MA in International Tourism and Leisure Studies at the Stenden University (CHN University) in co-operation with the London Metropolitan University  (University of North London). Click here to read (PDF file 79 pages unpubl.). October 2001.

© Stefan Tour Guide in Iceland, 2024

A Comprehensive Guide to the Icelandic School System

Published by Movingtoiceland.com Editor on September 7, 2023 September 7, 2023

Introduction

Iceland, a nation renowned for its progressive society, offers a robust and inclusive education system that stands as a beacon of innovation and quality. If you’re contemplating relocating to this Nordic gem, this guide will furnish you with all the vital details about the educational landscape in Iceland, helping you make an informed decision for your family’s future.

Structure of the Icelandic School System

Understanding the structure of the Icelandic school system is the first step in planning your move. Here, we dissect the different stages of education in Iceland, giving you a clear picture of what to anticipate.

Pre-school to Higher Education

In Iceland, the educational journey begins at an early age with pre-school (Leikskóli) usually admitting children at 18 months, though in some cases, enrollment can be as early as 1 year. These institutions focus on the holistic development of children, fostering creativity and curiosity from an early age. This phase transitions into the compulsory school (Grunnskóli) for students aged 6 to 16, offering a well-rounded curriculum that includes a wide array of subjects.

As students advance, they enter the upper secondary school, known as Menntaskóli or Framhaldsskóli, a stage offering diverse programs catering to individuals aged 16 to 20. For those aspiring to pursue higher education, Iceland houses several reputable universities (Háskóli) , offering a range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs.

International Schools and Support Programs

Relocating to a new country brings its set of challenges, especially concerning education. Fortunately, Iceland offers a selection of international schools and programs to facilitate this transition. For instance, the International School of Iceland in Reykjavik offers the International Baccalaureate (IB) program, providing a multicultural environment and fostering global citizenship among students. Additionally, several Icelandic universities offer programs in English to cater to the international student population, facilitating a smoother integration into the Icelandic education system.

Bilingual Education in Iceland

In Iceland, bilingual education is a significant focus, especially in schools with a considerable number of international students. This approach involves teaching students in both Icelandic and another language, often English, to ensure they can comfortably communicate and learn in both languages. This focus ensures that all students have the opportunity to excel in their studies, regardless of their linguistic background.

Living and Studying in Iceland

Moving to Iceland is an exhilarating adventure, accompanied by its set of challenges. This section serves as a guide for newcomers, focusing on cultural adaptation and the legal prerequisites for school admission.

Cultural Adaptation and Community Engagement

Adapting to the Icelandic culture is a vital part of the relocation process. Embrace the local customs and traditions to enhance your experience and integrate seamlessly into the community. Building a network and becoming part of the community can assist in settling down in a new country, with many schools offering community programs and networking opportunities.

Legal Requirements and School Admission

Before enrolling in an Icelandic school, familiarize yourself with the legal requirements, including the necessary documentation and visas or permits for residing in Iceland. Consulting with respective institutions or legal advisors can ensure a smooth transition. For more information, you can visit the Directorate of Immigration website.

Student Life and Support Services

Student life in Iceland is vibrant and fulfilling, offering a range of extracurricular activities including sports, which foster friendships and enhance overall well-being. To cater to the diverse needs of international students, many schools in Iceland offer support services, including counseling, language assistance, and mentorship programs, ensuring every student has the resources needed to succeed.

Teacher Training and Continuous Professional Development

Iceland places a strong emphasis on teacher training and continuous professional development. This commitment is reflected in the comprehensive programs designed to equip educators with the skills and knowledge needed to excel in their roles. These programs focus on innovative teaching methods and student-centric approaches, fostering a nurturing and inclusive learning environment. Moreover, continuous professional development is encouraged, with numerous opportunities for teachers to further their skills and knowledge through workshops and conferences.

Challenges and Opportunities in the Icelandic School System

While robust, the Icelandic education system faces challenges, including addressing the diverse needs of a growing international student population and integrating technology effectively into the classroom. Despite these challenges, the proactive approach of the government and educational institutions presents numerous opportunities for the development and growth of the education sector in Iceland.

In conclusion, the Icelandic school system promises a rich and diverse educational experience. With its innovative teaching methods, supportive environment for international students, and a strong focus on holistic development, Iceland stands as a promising destination for those looking to relocate.

Movingtoiceland.com Editor

Contact by email [email protected]

Related Posts

Guide to Become an Au pair in Iceland

Imagine living in Iceland, where you can find volcanoes and ice, where old traditions meet modern life. If you want to explore this amazing country, becoming an au pair could be your perfect chance. This Read more…

Top 9 Great Entry-Level Jobs in Iceland

Moving to Iceland is a dream for many. The first step towards settling in the country often involves finding a job. Fortunately, Iceland offers various entry-level positions suitable for newcomers, including those who don’t speak Read more…

Icelandic Food: The Delicious Guide to Traditional and Modern Icelandic Cuisine

Introduction to Icelandic cuisine Hey there, food enthusiasts! Ever wondered what makes Icelandic cuisine so unique? Well, you’re in for a treat. Iceland’s culinary scene is a fascinating mix of history, geography, and pure innovation. Read more…