General Information

> FAST FACTS ON ICELAND
> TRAVEL FACTS
> ARRIVING IN ICELAND
> GENERAL INFORMATION
> TOURIST INFORMATION
> TOURS
> ACTIVITIES
> TRANSPORTATION
> ACCOMMODATION
> SEASON CALENDAR
> DRIVING DISTANCES
> DRIVING DISTANCES AND DURATION
> PUBLIC HOLIDAYS

FAST FACTS ON ICELAND

LAND: Iceland is an island of almost 40,000 square miles, equal to that of Ohio . Iceland ’s highest peak, Hvannadalshnukur, is 6,500 ft. Iceland has the largest glaciers in Europe - in fact, 11% of the country is covered by glaciers. The coastline is dotted with more than one hundred fjords - and green, fertile valleys extend from them. Iceland also has more than 10,000 waterfalls and countless hot springs .

ENERGY: Situated on the Mid-Atlantic Ridge , Iceland is a hot spot of volcanic and geothermal activity. 30 volcanoes have erupted in the past two centuries, and natural hot water supplies much of the population with cheap, pollution free heating. Rivers, too, are harnessed to provide inexpensive hydroelectric power.

PEOPLE: Of a population numbering 290,000, more than half lives in the Greater Reykjavik Area. The native language is Icelandic but most Icelanders speak fluent English.

LANGUAGE: The Icelanders still speak the language of the Vikings (Old Norse).When new words are needed, they simply coin words that are combinations or modifications of old words. Iceland is alone in upholding another Norse tradition: the custom of using patronyms rather than surnames. If, for example, Einar has a son named “Petur”, the son’s name is Petur Einarsson (Peter Einar’s Son). If Einar has a daughter whom he names “Margret”, she becomes Margret Einarsdottir (Margaret Einar’s Daughter). Members of the same family can therefore have different “last names”, which often causes confusion to foreigners. If you are looking for someone in the phone directory, you look them up by their first name.

CHURCH: The National Church of Iceland , to which 90% of the population belongs, is Evangelical Lutheran. In addition to the many Lutheran churches in Reykjavik , there is a Roman Catholic Cathedral and numerous other houses of worship.

TIME: Iceland stays on Greenwich Mean Time (GMT) all year round.

HISTORY: The first permanent settler of Iceland was Ingolfur Arnarson, a Norwegian Viking who in AD874 made his home where Reykjavik now stands. In AD930, the Viking settlers of Iceland founded one of the world’s first republican governments. They established a constitution based on individual freedom, land ownership, and sophisticated inheritance laws. In the year 1000, Icelandic-born Leifur Eiriksson (Leif Eriksson, sometimes called “Leif the Lucky”) became the first European to set foot in North America . On another Viking expedition a couple of years later, Icelander Gudrid Thorbjarnardottir had a son, Snorri, who became the first child of European descent to be born in America . The Old Commonwealth Age, described in the classic Icelandic Sagas, lasted until 1262, when Iceland lost its independence. In 1918 it regained independence and in 1944 the present republic was founded. The country is governed by the Althing (Parliament), whose 63 members are elected every four years. Elections every four years are also held for the presidency; President Olafur Ragnar Grimsson was elected in June 2004 for the third time.

ECONOMY: The economy is heavily dependent upon fisheries, which are the nation’s greatest resource. 70% of all exports are made up of seafood products. Yet only a small proportion of the workforce is active in this sector (4.4% in fishing and 5.6% in fish processing).About 66% of the workforce is employed in services. Icelanders enjoy one of the highest standards of living in the world.

HEALTH and EDUCATION: Life expectancy (81.3 years for women and 76.4 for men) is one of the highest in the world, and a comprehensive state health-care system aims to keep it that way. The population enjoys a high-quality public school system, including its own university since 1911. Many Icelanders receive their Masters degrees abroad. Universities in the USA are quite popular with Icelanders.

TRAVEL FACTS

Before you go

PASSPORT: A valid passport, valid at least three months beyond intended stay, is required for visitors to Iceland.

THE SCHENGEN AGREEMENT: The Schengen agreement took effect for Iceland on March 26, 2001 and the following countries participate in the Schengen cooperation in addition to Iceland : Austria , Belgium , Denmark , Finland , France , Greece , Holland , Italy , Luxembourg , Norway , Portugal , Spain , Sweden and Germany . Travel between above-mentioned countries will in principle be without document check.
ATTENTION: Nationals of the following countries do not require visas to travel to Iceland as visitors (information from May 2004), although they do require valid travel documents that are valid for three months beyond their intended stay. All foreigners, except citizens of EEA, will have to have sufficient funds at the external borders for their stay in the Schengen area and they will have to have a valid return ticket or sufficient funds for a return ticket to their country of residence. In case the applicant is not able to comply with the above-mentioned conditions, the applicant shall expect to be refused entry into the Schengen area.

COUNTRIES EXEMPTED FROM VISA
REQUIREMENTS besides Canada and the United States of America : Andorra , Argentina , Australia , Austria , Belgium , Bolivia , Brazil , Brunei , Bulgaria , Chile , Costa Rica , Croatia , Cyprus , Czech Republic , Denmark , Ecuador , El Salvador , Estonia , Finland , France , Germany , Greece , Guatemala , Honduras , Hong Kong (applicable for those holding HKSAR passports), Hungary , Ireland , Israel , Italy , Japan , Latvia , Liechtenstein , Lithuania , Luxembourg , Macao (applicable for those holding MSAR passports), Malaysia , Malta , Mexico (Holders of Mexican Diplomatic and Service Passports are obliged to be in possession of a visa.), Monaco , Netherlands , New Zealand , Nicaragua , Norway , Panama , Paraguay , Poland , Portugal , Romania , San Marino , Singapore , Slovakia , Slovenia , South Korea , Spain , Sweden , Switzerland , Great Britain (incl. Bermuda (Holders of British passports who have a national passport, or a person holding an identity card issued by the competent authority and where the citizenship is stated as “British Citizen” or “British National Overseas” (BNO) and which is valid for entry into Great Britain , Turks and Caicos Islands , Cayman Islands , Anguilla , Montserrat , British Virgin Islands , St. Helena , Falkland Islands and Gibraltar ), Uruguay , Vatican and Venezuela .

VISAS: Anyone visiting Iceland for short periods of time from a country with a visa requirement for entering the country must obtain a visa prior to arrival. Because one Schengen State can now issue visas on behalf of the others, the procedure or issuance has become different. Questions of how to obtain a visa should be addressed to The Icelandic Directorate of Immigration. Schengen visas should be obtained prior to arrival in the Schengen area. In most instances, Nordic embassies will handle visa applications on behalf of Iceland . A visa normally grants the holder a right to stay in the entire Schengen region: Belgium , France , Greece , Iceland , Italy , Luxembourg , Holland , Portugal , Germany , Spain , Austria , Denmark , Finland , Norway and Sweden . A visa does not grant the right to work in Iceland , unless immigration authorities have explicitly granted the applicant this right. It is a requirement for all visa applications that, that the time of making the application; the applicant resides legally in the country from which the application is submitted. Documents to be enclosed with the application e.g.: A valid travel document on which a visa may be affixed, Where necessary, documents supporting the purpose and the conditions of the planned visit, guarantees of means of return and means of subsistence, personal interviews with applicants, two passport photos and travel insurance. A list of embassies and further information is updated on the Icelandic Directorate of Immigration web site http://www.utl.is

STAY WITHOUT THE ISSUE OF A PERMIT: A foreigner needing a visa in order to be permitted entry into Iceland may not stay in Iceland longer than specified in his visa. Other foreigners may not stay in Iceland for a period longer than three months. A stay in another Schengen state shall for this purpose be regarded as a stay in Iceland . The total stay within the Schengen Area must not exceed three months in any period of six months. A foreigner holding a permit to stay in another Schengen state may be obligated to produce travel documents attesting to the date of his arrival in Iceland.

ARRIVING IN ICELAND

AIRPORT BUSES: Service is operated between Reykjavik and Keflavik International Airport. Buses leave Reykjavik from the BSI Bus Terminal 2 hours before flight departure. The drive from the airport to Reykjavik takes about 40-50 minutes with connections to all major hotels in Reykjavik . The fare is ISK 1,100 one way for adults and ISK 550 one way for children 2-15 years.

ARRIVAL IN SEYDISFJORDUR: From Seydisfjordur it is easy to take a bus to all major destinations in Iceland . The trip from Seydisfjordur to Reykjavik takes about 8-9 hours and from Seydisfjordur to Akureyri about 5-6 hours in one go. For all information please stop by at the tourist information center that is located at the harbor upon arrival or contact the information center through the following e-mail address: [email protected] or phone: (+354) 470-2308

AIRPORT TAXIS: Taxis are always waiting outside the arrival hall. Cab fare to Reykjavik for a four-passenger taxi is approximately USD 100.

IN ICELAND

BUSINESS AND BANKING HOURS: Office hours are generally 9 AM to 5 PM and 8 AM to 4 PM during June, July and August. Shopping hours are Mon-Fri 9 AM to 6 PM , Sat from 10 AM to 1, 2, 3 or 4 PM. Some supermarkets are open to 11 PM seven days a week. Banking hours are Mon-Fri 9:15 AM to 4 PM .

CURRENCY REGULATIONS: There is no limit on the amount of foreign currency which may be brought into Iceland .

CURRENCY EXCHANGE: The Icelandic monetary unit is the “krona.” Coins are in denominations of 100 kr., 50 kr., 10 kr., 5 kr. and 1 kr. Bank notes are in denominations of 5000 kr., 2000 kr., 1000 kr., and 500 kr. All Icelandic banks provide foreign exchange and are generally open on weekdays from 9:15 AM to 4 PM .
ATM’s are found in most banks and many other locations throughout Reykjavik , accepting all major debit, credit and cash-only cards.

TRAVELERS’ CHEQUES: Travelers’ checks are widely accepted in Iceland .

DEBIT CARDS: Electron, Maestro and edc debit cards are increasingly being accepted by merchants.

CREDIT CARDS: Credit cards are widely used in Iceland and accepted by most establishments, including hotels, restaurants, car rentals and shops.

SHOPPING: The stores and shops in Iceland are of international standard and carry a wide variety of merchandise. Local specialties are woollen knitwear (for example sweaters, cardigans, hats and mittens), handmade ceramics, glassware and silver jewellery. Also available is a great variety of high-quality seafood. Shopping hours are Mon-Fri 9 AM to 6 PM , Sat from 10 AM to 1, 2, 3 or 4 PM, varying from one shop to another. Some supermarkets are open to 11 PM seven days a week. Many shops and stores are closed on Saturdays during the summer – June, July and August – but the woollen goods stores are open on Saturdays and some on Sundays as well. Shops outside Reykjavik in service centers or gas stations are often open all day ( 9 AM to 10, 11, or 11:30 PM ) every day of the week.

TAX REFUND: A refund of local Value-Added Tax (VAT) is available to all visitors in Iceland . The refund will result in a reduction of up to 15% of the retail price, provided departure from Iceland is within 3 months after the date of purchase. The purchase amount must be no less than ISK 4,000 or approximately USD 50 (VAT included) per sales receipt, and all goods (except woollens) need to be shown at customs before check-in.At Keflavik Airport this does only apply to tax-free forms which refund value exceeds ISK 5,000.All other forms can be refunded directly in cash at Landsbanki Islands in the departure hall. For information please contact
Iceland Refund (Tax-Free a Islandi ehf.)
Adalstraeti 2, IS-101 Reykjavik
Tel.: (+354) 564-6400 • Fax: (+354) 564-3600
e-mail: [email protected],
www.eurorefund.com

DUTY-FREE: Duty-free stores at Keflavik Airport are open to coincide with flight departures and arrivals.

LAUNDRY: Laundry and dry cleaning services are available at most hotels throughout the country. For further information on public laundry contact tourist information centers.

POST OFFICES: There are post offices located in all major communities in Iceland . General hours are: Mon-Fri 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM.The post office in Austurstraeti ( Reykjavik center) is closed June-August on Saturdays. The post office in Kringlan is open on Saturdays year round from 10 AM to 6 PM and the post office in Grensasvegur 9 is also open on Saturdays year round from 10 AM to 2 PM . The post office in Thonglabakki 4 is open Mon-Fri from 10 AM to 6 PM.

TELEPHONES: Direct calls can be made to all parts of Iceland.
THE CODE into Iceland from overseas is (+354) + seven-digit number. Direct long-distance calls can be made to Europe and the USA by dialling 00 plus the country code, the area code and the telephone number you wish to reach. If assistance is required, dial (+354) 905-5010 for information and (+354) 533-5010 to place a call. COIN- AND CARD-OPERATED public phones are at post offices and telephone exchanges around the country. Phone charges vary when calling within Iceland depending on the time of day. Rates may also be higher at hotels than at public phones.

GSM: There are two GSM operators in Iceland : Siminn and Vodafone. Together they cover most of Iceland including all towns and villages with over 200 inhabitants. These two telephone companies both sell pre-paid GSM phone cards and offer GSM/GPRS services. Pre-paid cards are available at petrol stations around the country. GSM phones may be rented from Iceland Telecom, Armuli 27, in Reykjavik .

NMT: Siminn NMT long-range mobile service covers most of Iceland , including the interior highlands, and is suitable for those who travel much in rural areas. NMT telephones can be rented from Siminn, Armuli 27, in Reykjavik .

FAX: Fax service is available at most post offices around the country. The fax code into Iceland is (+354) + Seven-digit number.

TELEGRAMS: Telegrams may be sent from private or public telephones by dialling (+354) 533-6010.

CLIMATE: Thanks to the Gulf Stream , Iceland enjoys a cool temperate ocean climate: cool in summer and fairly mild in winter. However, the weather is very changeable and tourists should be prepared for the unexpected.

Average temperature in Reykjavik
January 35°F
April 42°F
July 56°F
October 44°F

WEATHER/CLOTHING: For weather information in English,Tel.: (+354) 902-0600, extension 44, [email protected], www.vedur.is. When traveling to Iceland in winter you should bring along clothing similar to what you would wear at the same time of year in the US northeast. For summer you might want to bring along lightweight woollens, a windbreaker, sneakers and sturdy walking shoes if you plan to go hiking. Always bring a swimsuit – year-round.

MIDNIGHT SUN: During summer the nights are bright in all of Iceland . In the month of June the sun never fully sets in the north. There are even special excursions to the island of Grimsey on the Arctic Circle where you can experience the midnight sun, if it is not cloudy! Keep in mind, however, that the sun at midnight is not so warm as at midday , so bring along a sweater.

Daylight (sunrise/sunset)

Used with the kind permission of the Almanac of the University of Iceland .

TIME: Iceland stays on Greenwich Mean Time (GMT) throughout the year. When it is noon in Reykjavik during the summer, the time is 8 AM in New York City , 1 PM in London , 2 PM in Paris , 2 PM in Oslo , 2 PM in Rome and 9 PM in Tokyo.

GENERAL INFORMATION

MEDICAL HELP/PHARMACIES/EMERGENCY: In Iceland you will find more physicians per capita than anywhere in the world. Hospitals and all medical care are of the highest quality found anywhere. Icelanders enjoy a healthy life, thanks to clean air and water. Water is safe to drink throughout Iceland . Pharmacies are called “Apotek” and are open during normal business hours. Many are open at night. Reykjavik has a great many general practitioners, as well as specialists, many of whom will receive patients on short notice. There are also many health centers in Reykjavik , with officially appointed family doctors who receive patients on short notice during the day. The general rule is that for health care issues like vaccinations, much the same standards apply as in the US . The Medical Center (Laeknavaktin) at Heilsuverndarstodin, Smaratorg 1, Kopavogur, while in Iceland call 1770. Weekdays open from 5 PM to 11:30 PM. On the weekends and on public holidays, open from 9 AM to 11 PM. Patients can visit or phone and a doctor will make a house call.
In case of serious illness or accident, patients should turn to the Emergency Ward (Slysadeild) at Sjukrahus Reykjavikur (The City Hospital ), Reykjavik ,Tel.: (+354) 525-1000, which is open around the clock. There are health centers or general practitioners in all towns around the country, and in some villages as well. There is a medical center or a hospital in all major cities and towns in Iceland . The emergency phone number (24 hours) in Iceland is 112.

VISITORS WITH DISABILITIES: Visitors with disabilities can make traveling in Iceland fairly easy by planning their vacations in advance. They may also find it necessary to travel with a companion, for although there are many hotels and restaurants accessible to people with disabilities, they do not always provide full assistance. A number of hotels in Reykjavik and Akureyri have rooms specially designed for guests with disabilities. Larger department stores are generally accessible to wheelchair users. The coastal ferry Baldur is accessible to people with disabilities and so is the ferry Herjolfur. All airlines flying to and from Iceland are equipped to accommodate travelers with disabilities. A few domestic buses equipped for wheelchair users are available for special tours upon request. Specialized tour companies for disabled travelers are available such as:

Travel Friends • Tel. (+354) 564 4092,
[email protected] • www: islandia.is/~tourist
For accessible hotels and tourist attractions, see www.sjalfsbjorg.is/adgengi

PUBLIC HOLIDAYS: Businesses, banks and most stores are closed on these holidays:

RELIGION: The established religion in Iceland is Lutheran.

NEWS IN ENGLISH: A short news broadcast in English is made on State Radio, FM 93.5 and FM 92.4, every morning Mon-Fri at 07:31 AM from June 1 to September 1.A telephone recording of the broadcast can also be heard, Tel.: (+354) 515-3690.

TIPPING: Service and VAT are invariably included in prices in Iceland so tipping is accepted but not necessary.

ELECTRIC CURRENT: The electric current in Iceland is 220 volts, 50 HZ AC. Please note that the prongs on electrical equipment you bring with you may be different from Icelandic standards. It is advisable to check before using such equipment. Most hotels offer adapters but they may be in limited supply.

DRIVING IN ICELAND: There is no better way to get to know a country and its people than by traveling independently – according to one’s own itinerary. A journey to Iceland outside the normal tourist season can be an unforgettable experience. Traveling conditions are usually good in most parts of the country from April to November. The mountain roads are often very narrow, and are not made for speed. The same goes for many bridges, which are only wide enough for one car at a time. In addition to not having an asphalt surface, the mountain roads are often very winding. Journeys therefore often take longer than might be expected. For information on road conditions, Tel.: 1777, while in Iceland , daily 8 AM to 4 PM www.vegagerdin.is. The total length of the Ring Road around Iceland ( National Highway ) is 800 miles. The national speed limit in 90 km/h (55 mph). Some roads, though, have a lower limit. Road signs are numerous and easy to read. In Iceland all off-the-road driving outside of marked tracks is prohibited by law. Seat belts are required for all motorists at all times. Headlight use is required both day and night. And there is no right-turn on red.

PLEASE NOTE: special warning signs indicate danger ahead, such as sharp bends, but there is generally not a separate sign to reduce speed. Please choose a safe speed according to conditions. Motorists are obliged by law to use headlights at all times day and night. In Iceland all driving off roads or marked tracks is prohibited by law. Passengers in the front and back seats of any vehicle are required by law to use safety-belts. Icelandic law forbids any driving under the influence of alcohol.

MOTOR VEHICLE INSURANCE: Basic third party liability insurance is included in car rental rates. Full coverage is available at extra charge.

GAS STATIONS: In the greater Reykjavik area most gas stations are open every day to 11:30 PM. Opening hours around the country, where the pumps are privately operated, can vary from place to place. Many gas stations in the Reykjavik area and larger towns of Iceland have automats in operation after closing, which accept credit cards as well as notes. In rural or interior areas, gas stations may sometimes be far apart.

OPENING OF MOUNTAIN TRACKS: Most mountain roads are closed until the end of June, or even longer because of wet and muddy conditions which make them totally impassable. When these roads are opened for traffic many of them can only be negotiated by four-wheel drive vehicles. For some mountain tracks it is strongly advised that two or more cars travel together. Also, before embarking on any journey into the interior collect as much information as possible regarding road conditions from a travel bureau, tourist information office or the Public Roads Administration, Tel.: 1777 (while in Iceland ), daily 8 AM to 4 PM , www.vegagerdin.is.

Always take along a detailed map.

Average Opening Dates Of Some Mountain Tracks:



MAPS: Maps Are Necessary For Visitors To Iceland To Ensure Them An Enjoyable And Safe Journey. Ask For Road Maps And Maps Of Iceland At Local Tourist Offices, Bookstores Or Filling Stations.

TOURIST INFORMATION

Tourist Information Center
Adalstraeti 2 • 101 Reykjavik
Tel.: (+354) 562-3045 • Fax: (+354) 562-3057

For detailed information during your visit to Iceland please contact tourist information centers located throughout the country:

Tours

Iceland offers a great variety of tours, some covering large parts of the country, others small areas at a time. There are traditional tours as well as tours quite different from what can be experienced elsewhere. There are nature tours with striking landscapes, young lava fields, roaring waterfalls and majestic glacial icecaps. In addition, there are organized day tours, and weekend and holiday tours all year round with Icelandic touring clubs where the emphasis is on hiking.

Traveling into the uninhabited interior of Iceland is limited to the months of June, July and August, except for some specially organized winter tours (see section on opening of the mountain tracks). Winter tours in Iceland are unforgettable: there is skiing for both beginners and the experienced, glacier tours on snowmobile or snow cats, and ice fishing.

Destination Iceland
Vatnsmyrarvegur 10 • IS-101 Reykjavik
Tel.: (+354) 591-1020 • (+354) 591-1000
Fax: (+354) 591-1050 • [email protected]
www.dice.is

JRJ-SUPER JEEP-TRAVELS
Manathufa • 560 Varmahlid
Tel.: (+354) 453-8219 • (+354) 892-1852
[email protected] • www.simnet.is/jeppaferdir

Katla Destination Management Iceland
Sudurlandsbraut 6 • 108 Reykjavik
Tel.: (+354) 561-7550 • Fax: (+354) 564-0661
[email protected]

Reykjavik Excursions
Vesturvor 6 (Head office) • 200 Kopavogur
Tel.: (+354) 564-4777 • Fax: (+354) 564-4776
[email protected] • www.re.is


Organized Tours

All year, different varieties of tours are available, lasting from a few days up to three weeks. There are hotel tours, camping tours, hiking tours, geological tours, bird-watching tours, bicycling tours, air tours, historical tours, glacier tours, horseback riding tours – or a combination of these. For booking, please contact Icelandair offices or any authorized travel agency listed below.

Authorized Travel Agencies and Tour Operators in Iceland

ACTIVITIES

Iceland is an ideal destination for today’s active tourist. The following is a list of some of the many activities available.

Activity Vacations

Iceland is an ideal destination for today’s active tourist.The following is a list of some of the many activities available.

Iceland Excursions Allrahanda
Funahofda 17 • 110 Reykjavik
Tel.: (+354) 540-1313 • Fax: (+354) 540-1310
[email protected]
www.icelandexcursions.is

Blue Lagoon Geothermal Spa
IS 240 Grindavik
Tel.: (+354) 420-8800 • Fax: (+354) 420-8801
[email protected] • www.bluelagoon.com

Gjain — Geological Information Center
IS 240 Grindavik
Tel.: (+354) 420-8840 • Fax: (+354) 420-8801
[email protected] • www.bluelagoon.com

Padi Dive Center S-5157
- As Clear as it Gets -
Grofin 2 • 230 Keflavik
Tel.: (+354) 897-6696 • www.dive.is

SBA — Nordurleid
Hafnarstraeti 82 • 600 Akureyri
Tel.: (+354) 462-3510 / 551-1145
Fax: (+354) 462-7020 / 552-6550
[email protected] • www.sba.is

Dogsledding - Dog Steam Tours
Tel.: (+354) 487-7447 • Fax: (+354) 487-5412
Cell.: (+354) 863-8864
[email protected] • www.dogsledding.is

Destination Iceland
Vatnsmyrarvegur 10 • 101 Reykjavik
Tel.: (+354) 591-1020 / (+354) 591-1000
Fax: (+354) 591-1050
[email protected] • www.dice.is

Geothermal Wonders

In geological terms Iceland is very young and active. Geothermal activity is prominent in various places, both in natural springs and for bathing.  

Blue Lagoon
P.O.Box 22 • 240 Grindavik
Tel.: (+354) 420-8800 • Fax: (+354) 420-8801
[email protected] • www.bluelagoon.is

Dolphin & Whale Spotting

Moby Dick Whale Watching
Hafnargata 79 • P.O.Box 92 • 230Keflavik
Tel.: (+354)421-7777 • (+354)896-5598
Fax: (+354) 421-3361
[email protected] • www.dolphin.is

Hvalstodin ehf. Whale Watching Center
P.O.Box 409 • 121 Reykjavik
Operated from Aegisgardur, Reykjavik Harbor
Tel.: (+354)533-2660 • Fax: (+354)421-2517
[email protected]
www.whalewatching.is • www.hafsulan.is

Seatours
Smidjustigur 3 • 340 Stykkisholmur
Tel.: (+354) 438-1450 • Fax: (+354) 438-1050
[email protected] • www.seators.is

The Original Whale Watching in Husavik — North Sailing
Gamli Baukur • P.O.Box 122 • 640 Husavik
Tel.: (+354) 464-2350 • Fax: (+354) 464-2351
[email protected] • www.nordursigling.is

Bird-watching

Some places in Iceland are paradises for birdwatchers. Latrabjarg in the West Fjords is the largest known bird cliff in the world. A great variety of cliff-nesting species can be found there, including the largest razorbill colony in the world. The Westman Islands are known for many kinds of seabirds, and are home to Iceland ’s largest puffin population. Lake Myvatn in the north has more species of breeding ducks than any other place in Europe . The great skua colony on the sands in south Iceland is the largest in the world. Seabirds such as puffins can be seen in many places, as well as eiders, Arctic terns, waders and passerine birds. Some tour operators organize tours for bird-watchers in early summer.

Seatours
Smidjustigur 3 • 340 Stykkisholmur
Tel.: (+354) 438-1450 • Fax: (+354) 438-1050
[email protected] • www.seators.is

Hiking

More than half of Iceland is over 400 m above sea level, and a large part of the island is covered by lava, glaciers, lakes and sand. Several places in Iceland have marked walking paths, and hiking is a favourite pastime for Icelanders and tourists alike. Tourist information centers give information on hiking paths in their area. Many travel agencies also organize hiking tours during winter and summer alike.

Arinbjorn Johannsson Erlebnistouren
Brekkulaekur • 531 Hvammstangi
Tel.: (+354) 451-2938 • Fax: (+354)451-2998
[email protected] • www.geysir.com/Brekkulaekur

Erlingsson Naturreisen
Tjarnargata 4 • 101 Reykjavik
Tel.: (+354) 551-9700 • Fax: (+354) 551-9703
[email protected] • www.naturreisen.is

Horse Riding

Numerous farms throughout Iceland offer horse riding tours from 1 hour up to 10 days (see brochure from the Farm Holiday Service). Please note that all equestrian equipment must be disinfected before arrival. For further information please contact travel agencies and those mentioned below.

Arinbjorn Johannsson Erlebnistouren
Brekkulaekur • 531 Hvammstangi
Tel.: (+354) 451-2938 • Fax: (+354)451-2998
[email protected] • www.geysir.com/Brekkulaekur  

Ishestar Riding Tours
Sorlaskeid 26 • 220 Hafnarfjordur
Tel.: (+354) 555-7000 • Fax (+354) 555-7001
[email protected] • www.ishestar.is

Polar Horses
Grytubakki 2 • 601 Akureyri
Tel.: (+354) 463-3179 • Fax: (+354) 463-3144
[email protected] • www.polarhestar.is

Skiing

Winter skiing is available in many parts of the country. Skiing resorts with both cross-country and downhill skiing are found throughout Iceland . Summer skiing is possible at Kerlingarfjoll, close to Hofsjokull glacier in the interior.A ski-school is operated there from the end of June until the end of August. Weekend stays can be arranged at the school. Accommodation, food and rental of equipment can be provided for guests who are not registered at the school.

Skidasamband Islands
Ithrottamidstodinni Laugardal • Reykjavik
Tel.: (+354) 514-4094 • Fax: (+354) 514-4095
[email protected] • http://www.toto.is/sersamb/ski/

Cycling

Bikes can be rented in Reykjavik and in various places around Iceland . For further information on biking tours please contact tourist information centers.

Fishing and Hunting

Iceland is famous for its salmon and trout fishing. The main season for salmon fishing is from around June 20th to mid-September. Trout fishing varies from one river/lake to the next, but the normal season is from April/May until late September/ October. During winter, ice fishing is quite popular. For salmon fishing, permits must be reserved well in advance, but trout fishing permits can be obtained on short notice, often the same day. Sea angling is also becoming a popular sport in Iceland . The season begins late in May and lasts until the end of August with several tournaments in different parts of the country. For further information, contact local tourist information centers and travel agencies.

Glacier Tours

Glacier tours with snowmobiles or snow-cats.

Iceland Excursions Allrahanda
Funahofda 17 • 110 Reykjavik
Tel.: (+354) 540-1313 • Fax: (+354) 540-1310
[email protected]
www.icelandexcursions.is

Golf

Iceland has over 50 golf courses throughout the island, some with outstanding views and always close to nature. Golf can be played in Iceland from May through September and in the summer golf can be played around-the-clock due to the midnight sun. Visitors are welcome at the courses. Green fees vary from USD 15 to 30. Some courses offer clubs for rent. For further information contact the

Icelandic Golf Association
Tel. (+354) 568 6686
e-mail [email protected] • www.golf.is.

Midnight Golf in Iceland

At the end of June 36-hole open international matches are held. Tee-off is just before midnight and playing continues until the early hours of the morning. For further information contact the  

Icelandic Golf Association
Tel. (+354) 568-6686 • e-mail [email protected]
or visit www.golf.is.

Contact local tourist information centers and travel agencies.

Reykjavik Marathon

The Reykjavik Marathon is an international and annual event. The Reykjavik Marathon will be held on August 21st 2004 , August 20th 2005 and August 19th 2006. www.reykjavikmarathon.com

River Rafting

Artic Rafting
Sudurbraut 2 • Arnes • 801 Selfoss
Tel.: (+354) 898-0410 • Fax: (+354) 487-5587
[email protected] • www.arcticrafting.is


Jetboating

A new and exciting thing in Icelandic recreation is jet boating. The boats are specially designed to navigate rivers at high speed and do 360° turns thus making it an adrenalin-pumping trip and great fun for all.

Artic Rafting
Sudurbraut 2 • Arnes • 801 Selfoss
Tel.: (+354) 898-0410 • Fax: (+354) 487-5587
[email protected] • www.arcticrafting.is


Swimming

Swimming is a very popular activity all year round in Iceland . Most towns and villages have outdoor or indoor swimming pools filled with water from natural hot springs . The temperature of the water in the pools is about the same as bathwater. In many places there are also saunas, jacuzzis solariums and hot pots. [email protected], www.spacity.is

TRANSPORTATION

How to get to Iceland by air

There are excellent transportation choices via ICELANDAIR to Iceland and beyond from North America . There are non-stop flights to Reykjavik ( Keflavik International Airport ) from Baltimore/Washington, Boston, Minneapolis , Orlando and seasonal flights from New York and San Francisco . Daily service is available to Amsterdam , Copenhagen , Frankfurt , Glasgow London , Oslo , Paris and Stockholm . Summertime only: Barcelona , Berlin , Helsinki , Milan , Munich and Madrid .

Icelandair — North America
Tel.: 800-223-5500 • [email protected]
www.icelandair.com • www.icelandairholidays.com

How to get to Iceland by sea

No scheduled passenger sea-link from North America but many cruise lines make stops in Iceland in their itineraries: Holland America Line, Cunard, Seabourn Cruise Line, Crystal Cruise, Silversea Cruise, Princess Cruise, Royal Caribbean International, Orient Lines, Abercrombie & Kent, Lindblad Special, Expeditions, Euro Cruises.

www.icelandtouristboard.com

SMYRIL LINE: The Faroe Islands ’ Smyril Line operates a weekly passenger and car ferry service during summer from Bergen in Norway and Hanstholm in Denmark to Lerwick in the Shetland Islands , the Faroe Islands and Seydisfjordur in Iceland .

Iceland • Austfar
Fjardargata 8 • 710 Seydisfjordur • Iceland
Tel.: (+354) 472-1111 • Fax: (+354) 472-1105
[email protected] • www.smyril-line.is

Iceland • Smyril Line Iceland
Saetun 8 • 105 Reykjavik • Iceland
Tel.: (+354) 570-8600 • Fax (+354) 552-9450
[email protected] • www.smyril-line.is

Domestic Transportation — by Air

Air Iceland offers scheduled service to most parts of the country. For further information please contact the following:

Air Iceland
Reykjavik Airport • 101 Reykjavik
Tel.: (+354) 570-3030 • Fax: (+354) 570-3001
[email protected] • www.airiceland.is

Icebird Airlines (Islandsflug)
Hlidarsmari 15 • 201 Kopavogur
Tel.: (+354) 570-8030 • Fax: (+354) 570-8031
[email protected] • www.islandsflug.is

AIR ICELAND PASSES: Four-, five- and six sector passes are valid on any segment operated by Air Iceland . This arrangement is valid year-round. There is no minimum time limit but the trip must be completed within 30 days. The AIR ICELAND PASS is sold by all Icelandair offices abroad. Also look for “Fly As You Please” which offers 12 days, unlimited travel on all Air Iceland domestic routes.

INTERNET OFFERS: New internet offers every week.

CHARTER SERVICE: Several air carriers offer charter service and sightseeing flights:

Air Iceland
Reykjavik Airport • 101 Reykjavik
Tel.: (+354) 570-3030 • Fax: (+354) 570-3001
[email protected] • www.airiceland.is

Icebird Airlines (Islandsflug)
Hlidarsmari 15 • 201 Kopavogur
Tel.: (+354) 570-8030 • Fax: (+354) 570-8031
[email protected] • www.islandsflug.is

Domestic Transportation — Ferries

Ferry Baldur
Smidjustigur 3 • 340 Stykkisholmur
Tel.: (+354) 438-1120 • Fax: (+354) 438-1093
[email protected] • www.saeferdir.is

Westman Islands Ferry
Herjolfur, Westman Islands
Basaskersbryggja • 900 Westman Islands
Tel.: (+354) 481-2800 • Fax: (+354) 481-2991
[email protected] • www.herjolfur.is


Domestic Excursions and Transportation — by Bus

There is an extensive bus service to most parts of the country and to the highlands, as well as a large number of organized bus tours. Reservations are not necessary and tickets can be bought either at the bus station or from the driver. Children under 4 travel free of charge, and half price is charged for children from 4-11.

EXCURSIONS:

Reykjavik Excursions
Vesturvor 6 (head office) • 200 Kopavogur
Tel.: (+354) 580-5400 • Fax: (+354) 564-4776
[email protected] • www.re.is

DRIVING DISTANCES

Click here to view table!

Weather Information: Tel.: (+ 354) 902-0600, ext. 44 — Web: vedur.is/english Emergency tel: 112

Iceland Excursions Allrahanda
Funahofdi 17 • IS-110 Reykjavik
Tel.: (+354) 540-1313 • Fax: (+354) 540-1310
[email protected]
www.icelandexcursions.is

Bus travel: There is an extensive bus service to most parts of the country and to the highlands, as well as a large number of organized bus tours. Reservations are not necessary and tickets can be bought either at the bus station or from the driver. Children under 4 travel free of charge, and half price is charged for children from 4-11.

For hiring of buses contact:

Gudmundur Jonasson LTD
Borgartun 34 • 105 Reykjavik
Tel.: (+354) 511-1515 • Fax: (+354) 511-1511
[email protected] • www.gjtravel.is

The United Bus Central
Hesthals 10 • 110 Reykjavik
Tel.: (+354) 587-6000 • Fax: (+354) 567-4969
[email protected] • www.hopferd.is

SBA — Nordurleid
Hafnarstraeti 82 • 600 Akureyri
Tel.: (+354) 550-0700 / 550-0770
Fax: (+354) 550-0701 / 550-0771
[email protected] • www.sba.is

Teitur Jonasson — Bus Rental
Dalvegur 22 • 201 Kopavogur
Tel.: +354-515-2700 • Fax: +354-515-2707
[email protected] • www.teitur.is

Domestic Transportation — Car Rentals

There are several car rental agencies in Iceland. Cars can be booked through a travel agent or an airline, at airports or directly after arrival in Iceland . Many types of cars are available, from small family cars to powerful 4-wheel-drive vehicles.

ACCOMMODATION

Classification

All lodging facilities in Iceland have the opportunity to be classified. The classification is voluntary and is divided into five categories, i.e. 1, 2, 3, 4 or 5 stars, and is by no means an all embracing assessment of the quality of the accommodation in question. It is solely based on factors which can be objectively measured. The grading consists of more than 100 different items.

The Icelandic Tourist Board is in charge of the classification. Look for the blue-red sign placed near the entrance which indicates the present classification of the facility. For further information see www.icelandtouristboard.com

Hotels and Guesthouses

Hotels offer a pleasant European flavour and are of a high international standard. The price range would be USD 230 for a double room in a first-class facility in high season to USD 70 for a guesthouse, breakfast and taxes included. Prices are generally lower in winter.

FARMHOUSE ACCOMMODATIONS:

Icelandic Farm Holidays is a chain of farms around Iceland offering travelers accommodations and a variety of services. Some activities offered at farms are horseback riding, fishing, sailing, hunting, glacier tours, sheep roundup and swimming. Accommodations are in farmhouses, country hotels, separate houses or cottages. Travelers can choose from bed & breakfast in rooms with or without private facilities or with sleeping-bag accommodations. Cottages are usually rented by the week. Icelandic Farm Holidays also offer guided tours and independent self-drive tours. For further information and bookings see their brochure “IFH TOURS” or contact the

Icelandic Farm Holidays
Sidumuli 13 • 108 Reykjavik
Tel.: (+354) 570-2700 • Fax: (+354) 570-2799
[email protected] • www.farmholidays.is

YOUTH AND FAMILY HOSTELS:

There are 27 youth and family hostels around Iceland , open to people of all ages. They offer budget accommodations in clean and comfortable lodgings with self-service, so travelers can keep traveling costs to a minimum. All the hostels have a well-equipped guest kitchen and family rooms. The Travel Section arranges travels in Iceland and provides different tours. The Travel Section also offers packages, which consist of rental car or bus tickets and hostel overnight vouchers. The Travel Section is a central booking office for all Hostelling International Hostels in Iceland for individuals and groups. For further information see our brochure “Hostelling in Iceland ” or contact the  

Icelandic Youth Hostel Association
Sundlaugavegur 34 • 105 Reykjavik
Tel.: (+354) 553-8110 • Fax: (+354) 588-9201
[email protected] • www.hostel.is

CAMPING: There are around 125 registered campsites in Iceland . Camping grounds are normally open from the beginning of June until the end of August or middle of September depending on location. The price for camping in Iceland varies depending on facilities available or from approx. USD 5-7. Travellers may set up hiking tents for an overnight stay in Iceland. However, the permission of the landowner or other right holders should be sought before camping. Travellers are advised to use the designated campsites when possible. Special accommodation/camping brochure is available for pickup at tourist information centers.

FOR YOUR SAFETY

Please take great care when visiting the natural wonders of Iceland , such as geothermal areas, waterfalls and glaciers. Always stay on defined paths and/or within safe distance.

NOTE: Prices are subject to change. All efforts have been made to verify that information in this brochure is correct as of July 1, 2004 . The lists of services are not always complete.

For further information on anything in this brochure see www.icelandtouristboard.com