Private Express Glacier and Highland Adventure with Photographer

Discover Iceland’s Glaciers and Highlands with a Personal Touch

If you’re craving an intimate, well-curated Icelandic adventure, this Private Express Glacier and Highland Tour offers a fantastic way to experience the country’s dramatic scenery without the crowds. Priced at around $2,447 for up to four people, this two-day journey combines guided glacier hikes on Sólheimajökull, exploring remote highland wilderness, and capturing stunning photographs with a professional guide. The tour is designed for travelers who want a blend of adventure, natural beauty, and personalized service.

What we love about this experience is its attention to detail—from the expertly led glacier walks to a delicious wilderness BBQ—and its flexibility with optional ice climbing. Another highlight is the professional photography package included, ensuring you leave with high-quality images of your trip. The only consideration might be the moderate physical effort needed and the fact that the tour is only available from mid-June to October, so planning accordingly is essential.

This tour suits those who appreciate authentic landscapes, are comfortable with outdoor activity, and want a tailored experience that captures the essence of Iceland’s wild side. If you’re looking for a private, comprehensive adventure with a focus on photography and Icelandic scenery, this tour is worth considering.

Key Points

• Personalized private experience tailored for small groups of up to four travelers
• Includes professional photography to immortalize your adventure
• Visiting iconic locations like Sólheimajökull glacier, Þórsmörk, and Langidalur
• Active yet manageable with glacier hiking, canyon walking, and a wilderness BBQ
• Perfect for outdoor lovers who want authentic Icelandic landscapes without large tour groups
• Available only during summer months from June to October

An In-Depth Look at the Icelandic Highland Experience

When we first looked into this tour, it was clear that the combination of glacier exploration and highland adventure was carefully designed for travelers seeking both excitement and serenity. The itinerary is thoughtfully segmented into two days, giving you time to absorb each landscape’s unique beauty without feeling rushed.

Day 1: Glacier Hike at Sólheimajökull

Your journey begins with pickup from your Reykjavik accommodation, setting the tone for a personalized experience. The first stop is the Sólheimajökull glacier, an impressive tongue extending from the Mýrdalsjökull ice cap. Here, you’ll lace up your boots and don crampons under the guidance of an experienced glacier guide.

Walking across centuries-old ice, you’ll learn about glacier formation and movement, which adds an educational layer to the adventure. The blues and whites of the ice formations are mesmerizing, and the deep crevasses offer fantastic photo opportunities—especially with the included 50 professional shots.

For those seeking an adrenaline boost, the optional ice climbing upgrade is a real highlight. Climbing ice walls amid breathtaking scenery gives a sense of achievement—and plenty of bragging rights. Even without the upgrade, the hike itself is exhilarating, providing a close-up view of one of Iceland’s most iconic natural features.

Day 2: Highland Exploration in Þórsmörk

The second day takes you into the remote, rugged Icelandic Highlands. Starting with a super jeep ride, you’ll cross glacial rivers and rugged terrain that would be inaccessible by standard vehicle, emphasizing the adventure’s exclusive feel.

Your destination: Þórsmörk (Thor’s Woods), a valley surrounded by towering mountains and glaciers. Here, you’ll hike through Stakkholtsgjá Canyon, a narrow gorge resembling scenes from Jurassic Park, with moss-covered cliffs and a glacial river cutting through. The hike into the canyon is about 2 kilometers, and it’s well worth the effort for the hidden cave with a waterfall—a truly photogenic spot.

Midday, you’ll enjoy a traditional Icelandic BBQ at Langidalur, a mountain lodge with panoramic views. The meal features local ingredients like Icelandic lamb or fish, alongside classic sides like rúgbrauð (rye bread) and skyr, giving you a taste of authentic Icelandic cuisine in a stunning setting.

The day culminates with a climb up Valahnúkur peak, where you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding mountains, glaciers, and coastline. The combination of outdoor hiking, scenic vistas, and authentic food makes this a memorable experience.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

The customization and personal attention are evident—your guide, including a professional photographer, ensures you get the best shots and tailored insights into the landscapes. The photography package is a major plus, especially since the photos are professionally edited and sent about two weeks later, giving you high-quality memories to share.

The small group/private nature of the tour means you won’t be part of a herd, and your guide can adapt to your pace and interests. The local knowledge shared by guides like “Jon” (as mentioned in reviews) enhances the experience, making it more than just a sightseeing trip—it becomes a genuine connection to the land.

The Value of the Experience

While the cost of around $2,447 for four people might seem steep at first glance, it includes hotel pickup and drop-off, all meals (including breakfast and the wilderness BBQ), professional guide and photographer, and quality accommodation. You’re paying for convenience, exclusivity, and expertise, which significantly enhances the overall value.

The Real-World Feedback

A reviewer called it an “excellent day tour,” emphasizing how well-organized and tailored it was. They appreciated the perfect guide and the fun atmosphere, which echoes what many others say about the guides’ friendliness and knowledge. The photo package is especially praised, with travelers happy to have professional shots capturing their memories.

Possible Drawbacks

The tour demands moderate physical fitness—the hikes and jeep rides are active and might be challenging for those with mobility issues. Also, since the tour is season-limited (June to October), it’s not available if you’re visiting outside these months. Weather can also affect the experience, but the tour provider offers full refunds or alternate dates in case of cancellations.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour for You?

This adventure is best suited for travelers who value personalized service, outdoor activity, and stunning photography. It’s perfect if you want a comprehensive, authentic Icelandic experience that goes beyond typical sightseeing tours. The combination of glacier walking, highland exploration, and a gourmet BBQ makes it ideal for adventure lovers, nature enthusiasts, and those eager to capture beautiful photos of their journey.

If you’re looking for a relaxed, low-key experience, this might be a bit intense, but for those keen on a full-immersion into Iceland’s wild landscapes, it offers tremendous value. The tour’s private nature and professional guide ensure that your adventure is both memorable and tailored to your interests.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for children or people with limited mobility?
While the tour involves hiking and jeep rides across rugged terrain, it requires moderate physical fitness. It may not be ideal for very young children or those with mobility issues, but older kids active in outdoor activities could enjoy it with supervision.

What is included in the price?
The price covers hotel pickup and drop-off in Reykjavik, all meals including breakfast and the wilderness BBQ, a professional guide and photographer, and quality accommodation along the South Coast.

Can I upgrade to ice climbing?
Yes, the tour offers the option to upgrade to an ice climbing experience on Sólheimajökull, which is an exciting addition for thrill-seekers.

When is this tour available?
The tour operates from June 15th to October 30th, aligning with Iceland’s summer and early autumn months when conditions are best for outdoor activities.

Will I receive my photos shortly after the tour?
Photos are edited and sent approximately 14 days after your trip, giving you high-quality images to remember your adventure by.

What happens if the weather is bad?
Since weather plays a role, the tour provider offers full refunds or rescheduling options if poor weather cancels the trip, ensuring you’re not left disappointed.

This two-day private adventure combines adventure, scenery, and authentic Icelandic hospitality in a way that’s both manageable and memorable. Whether you’re a dedicated photographer, outdoor enthusiast, or simply someone eager to see Iceland’s wild side, this tour offers a compelling mix of highlights and genuine experiences.