Arctic Hiking & Walking Tours & Trip Packages

Arctic Hiking & Walking Tours & Trips

139 Arctic trips. Tours from 62 tour companies. 126 reviews. 4.8/5 avg rating.

8 trips exactly matchall of the the filters you selected. We are displaying some similar trips.
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Hiking & Walking
Dramatic Iceland by Foot and by Sea: A Circumnavigation
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4.4/5 Great
100+ reviews
Small Ship Cruise
Lodging level
Premium - 4 star
Physical level
Moderate
Trip pace
Flexible schedule

Visits

Blue Lagoon, Lake Myvatn, Reykjavík, Skaftafell National Park, Snaefellsnes Peninsula, Thingvellir National park

Highlights

  • Walk to Gullfoss waterfall and learn why the threat of a landowner’s daughter, Sigríður Tómasdottir, to plunge into the Gullfoss turned it into a natural treasure.
  • At the magnificent glacier Lagoon of Jökulsarlon, float past magnificent icebergs in a specially equipped boat and hike the extraordinary lava fields of Berserkjahraun.
  • Swim in the rejuvenating waters of Blue Lagoon and visit the site of the first Icelandic parliament at Thingvellir National Park.

Themes

50 plus, Education / Learning, Hiking & Walking, Small Ship Cruise

What travelers are saying

"Our family of four, including two adult children, took the Bicycling: Day Trips to Paradise in Canada. This trip is entirely outsourced to the owners of the inn, there are no Road Scholar employees involved in the trip. Two of us have taken bicycle trips all over the world and the bicycling component of this trip was disorganized, haphazard and almost unsafe. We all filled out forms giving details regarding our bicycle fitting months before the trip. On the first day, the leader Stephen, went around the room and asked the same questions and said everyone would get fitted in the morning before we began the first ride. The morning brought a rack of bikes, all different types in various levels of readiness. There were road bikes, hybrid bikes, mountain bikes and e-bikes. The rides were all on paved surfaces and the mountain bikes were heavy and the additional suspension added weight. The bike I received had rust on the chain and rear sprocket. When I asked about it, was told they were waiting for another van to show up with tools and equipment. Once it arrived, they gave me the lubricant to spray on the rust. My wife’s bike would not shift into the high gear on the front sprocket. Instead of adjusting the derailleur, they suggested spraying it with lubricant. Our one son is over six feet and needed a larger frame bike, even though he detailed it in the bike form months ago, there was no bike to fit him. One of the guides, then went home and brought a larger bike that was a full suspension mountain bike for him. The bike was very heavy, hard to control on the road and he felt unsafe. After two days, one of the guides convinced Stephen that they could adjust a hybrid bike to fit him. Clearly there was no work done to prepare the bikes for the trip. Many of the bikes needed adjusting and all needed lubricant to function easily. For every day, there was a tray of snacks placed out for us to take along the ride. None of the bikes had any baskets or attached bags, so if you didn’t bring a small day pack, there was no way to carry the snacks. For lunch on the rides, they brought exactly one sandwich for each rider. Since most of us get hungry while doing a day of exercise, it would have been helpful to have a few extras. On one day, they ran out of sandwiches and one of the leaders that were riding with us did not get lunch. Do NOT take this trip if you are expecting it to be a bicycling trip. We have used VBT and Discovery Bicycle Tours many times over the past 25 years and they are excellent bike tour companies. Lastly, after sharing these details with Road Scholar after the trip, their response was weak at best. After doing the full reviews and having to call them, their response was to give us $200 credit after spending $8000 on this trip. Not only was that insulting, they assumed that I would take another trip with their organization."

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Northern Discoveries: Hiking the Landscapes of Greenland & Iceland
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4.4/5 Great
100+ reviews
Small Ship Cruise
Lodging level
Premium - 4 star
Physical level
Moderate
Trip pace
Flexible schedule

Visits

Blue Lagoon, Nuuk, Snaefellsnes Peninsula

Highlights

  • Soak in the healing waters of the Blue Lagoon and learn why its mineral-rich properties provide treatment for many skin ailments.
  • Hike in remote and stunning Arctic landscapes in Greenland that offer views of pristine fjords and icebergs.
  • Walk through the old city center and new suburban areas of Nuuk, Greenland’s capital city.

Themes

50 plus, Education / Learning, Hiking & Walking, Small Ship Cruise

What travelers are saying

"Our family of four, including two adult children, took the Bicycling: Day Trips to Paradise in Canada. This trip is entirely outsourced to the owners of the inn, there are no Road Scholar employees involved in the trip. Two of us have taken bicycle trips all over the world and the bicycling component of this trip was disorganized, haphazard and almost unsafe. We all filled out forms giving details regarding our bicycle fitting months before the trip. On the first day, the leader Stephen, went around the room and asked the same questions and said everyone would get fitted in the morning before we began the first ride. The morning brought a rack of bikes, all different types in various levels of readiness. There were road bikes, hybrid bikes, mountain bikes and e-bikes. The rides were all on paved surfaces and the mountain bikes were heavy and the additional suspension added weight. The bike I received had rust on the chain and rear sprocket. When I asked about it, was told they were waiting for another van to show up with tools and equipment. Once it arrived, they gave me the lubricant to spray on the rust. My wife’s bike would not shift into the high gear on the front sprocket. Instead of adjusting the derailleur, they suggested spraying it with lubricant. Our one son is over six feet and needed a larger frame bike, even though he detailed it in the bike form months ago, there was no bike to fit him. One of the guides, then went home and brought a larger bike that was a full suspension mountain bike for him. The bike was very heavy, hard to control on the road and he felt unsafe. After two days, one of the guides convinced Stephen that they could adjust a hybrid bike to fit him. Clearly there was no work done to prepare the bikes for the trip. Many of the bikes needed adjusting and all needed lubricant to function easily. For every day, there was a tray of snacks placed out for us to take along the ride. None of the bikes had any baskets or attached bags, so if you didn’t bring a small day pack, there was no way to carry the snacks. For lunch on the rides, they brought exactly one sandwich for each rider. Since most of us get hungry while doing a day of exercise, it would have been helpful to have a few extras. On one day, they ran out of sandwiches and one of the leaders that were riding with us did not get lunch. Do NOT take this trip if you are expecting it to be a bicycling trip. We have used VBT and Discovery Bicycle Tours many times over the past 25 years and they are excellent bike tour companies. Lastly, after sharing these details with Road Scholar after the trip, their response was weak at best. After doing the full reviews and having to call them, their response was to give us $200 credit after spending $8000 on this trip. Not only was that insulting, they assumed that I would take another trip with their organization."

Trip dates & details
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Walking and Hiking in South Iceland: The Drama of Nature
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4.4/5 Great
100+ reviews
Small Group Tour
Lodging level
Standard - 3 star
Physical level
Strenuous
Trip pace
Balanced schedule

Visits

Blue Lagoon, Gullfoss, Skaftafell National Park, Thingvellir National park

Highlights

  • Learn about Iceland’s energy source at a geothermal power plant.
  • Explore Skaftafell National Park, which spans three glaciers on the southern edge of Vatnajökull, Europe’s largest icecap.
  • Soak in a naturally heated river in the colorful, volcanic Landmannalaugar region.

Themes

50 plus, Education / Learning, Hiking & Walking, National Parks, Nature & Wildlife

What travelers are saying

"Our family of four, including two adult children, took the Bicycling: Day Trips to Paradise in Canada. This trip is entirely outsourced to the owners of the inn, there are no Road Scholar employees involved in the trip. Two of us have taken bicycle trips all over the world and the bicycling component of this trip was disorganized, haphazard and almost unsafe. We all filled out forms giving details regarding our bicycle fitting months before the trip. On the first day, the leader Stephen, went around the room and asked the same questions and said everyone would get fitted in the morning before we began the first ride. The morning brought a rack of bikes, all different types in various levels of readiness. There were road bikes, hybrid bikes, mountain bikes and e-bikes. The rides were all on paved surfaces and the mountain bikes were heavy and the additional suspension added weight. The bike I received had rust on the chain and rear sprocket. When I asked about it, was told they were waiting for another van to show up with tools and equipment. Once it arrived, they gave me the lubricant to spray on the rust. My wife’s bike would not shift into the high gear on the front sprocket. Instead of adjusting the derailleur, they suggested spraying it with lubricant. Our one son is over six feet and needed a larger frame bike, even though he detailed it in the bike form months ago, there was no bike to fit him. One of the guides, then went home and brought a larger bike that was a full suspension mountain bike for him. The bike was very heavy, hard to control on the road and he felt unsafe. After two days, one of the guides convinced Stephen that they could adjust a hybrid bike to fit him. Clearly there was no work done to prepare the bikes for the trip. Many of the bikes needed adjusting and all needed lubricant to function easily. For every day, there was a tray of snacks placed out for us to take along the ride. None of the bikes had any baskets or attached bags, so if you didn’t bring a small day pack, there was no way to carry the snacks. For lunch on the rides, they brought exactly one sandwich for each rider. Since most of us get hungry while doing a day of exercise, it would have been helpful to have a few extras. On one day, they ran out of sandwiches and one of the leaders that were riding with us did not get lunch. Do NOT take this trip if you are expecting it to be a bicycling trip. We have used VBT and Discovery Bicycle Tours many times over the past 25 years and they are excellent bike tour companies. Lastly, after sharing these details with Road Scholar after the trip, their response was weak at best. After doing the full reviews and having to call them, their response was to give us $200 credit after spending $8000 on this trip. Not only was that insulting, they assumed that I would take another trip with their organization."

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Iceland Adventure
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3.5/5 Great
30 reviews
Group Tour
Lodging level
Luxury - 5 star
Physical level
Moderate
Trip pace
Balanced schedule

Visits

Lake Myvatn, Reykjavík, Thingvellir National park, Vatnajökull National Park

Highlights

  • Experience the raw power of Iceland’s ice-capped volcanoes, thundering waterfalls, dazzling glaciers, and exploding geysers.
  • Learn about the creation of Europe’s largest national park, Vatnajökull, in a special meeting with a local park director.
  • Explore bubbling mud pots, steaming fumaroles, and striking lava castles around Lake Mývatn.
  • Hike up Reynisfjall mountain, one of the most beautiful coastal walks in southern Iceland

Themes

Hiking & Walking

What travelers are saying

"We booked a National Geographic expedition Holland and Belgium by River. The promotional literature promised a 14-day deposit refund window. The “invoice” was marked “non-refundable” deposit. We completed the National Geographic Traveler Information. About 8 days later we received the “Travel Agreement” to be signed. We both approved and signed the National Geographic documents. A Cruise Line Travel agreement was enclosed but had no signature line. This document contained language which was unacceptable. We submitted the signed NatGeo documents. The following day we canceled the trip due to the unacceptable Cruise Line language. Cancellation was made 12 days after booking and no deposit was returned. We were told on the phone that the refund deadline was triggered by the 14 day window OR signatures on the Travel Agreement which ever came first. This was NEW information. To date, we have received NO refund of our $1000. We cancelled our trip within the advertised 14 day window."

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Iceland: Hiking the Land of Fire and Ice
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4.8/5 Excellent
100+ reviews
Small Group Tour
Lodging level
Premium - 4 star
Physical level
Moderate
Trip pace
Balanced schedule

Visits

Gullfoss, Reykjavík, Snaefellsnes Peninsula, Thingvellir National park, Vatnajökull National Park

Highlights

  • Hike through the Búrfellsgja Canyon, and behind Seljalandsfoss falls. Follow a trail to the oldest swimming pool in Iceland for a rejuvenating soak.
  • Hike along Skóga River, past Skógafoss falls. Afternoon glacier exploration, or optional snowmobile adventure (at additional expense). Evening optional horseback riding (at additional expense).
  • Visit the Skógar Folk Museum. Explore the desert-like landscape surrounding Hjörleifshöfði, and walk through scenic Fjaðrágljúfur Canyon.
  • Explore an iceberg-filled lagoon by boat. June through mid-August, ride a farm tractor to our trail head to hike past puffin nesting sites along the Atlantic.
  • Embark on an overland expedition through the fjallabak, or “route behind the mountains”, explore colorful rhyolite mountains, volcanic craters, and idyllic waterfalls.
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Themes

Hiking & Walking, National Parks, Nature & Wildlife

What travelers are saying

"Small group travel that's friendly, collaborative, and personal."

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Iceland Multisport Tour
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4.8/5 Excellent
62 reviews
Small Group Tour
Lodging level
Premium - 4 star
Physical level
Moderate
Trip pace
Balanced schedule

Visits

Reykjavík, Thingvellir National park, Vatnajökull National Park

Highlights

  • Experience the full diversity of Iceland's raw, wild landscape
  • Remarkable geologic treasures, from glaciers and geysers to volcanoes and sea stacks
  • Savor crisp coastal air and deliciously fresh seafood
  • Venture on a unforgettable guided ice walk
  • Extend your stay in vibrant Reykjavík

Themes

50 plus, Cultural, Cycling & Biking, Hiking & Walking, National Parks, Nature & Wildlife

What travelers are saying

"Until Covid clears, I would steer clear of Backroads. We were partially through their June 2020 Costa Rica tour when a guest tested Covid positive. She and her husband were isolated. The rest of the group were offered wimpy masks. Nobody was offered Covid testing daily and masks were not required of the guests or staff. The guides kept repeating "not in the CDC guidelines." Our group of six decided that the Backroads response was inadequate so returned home mid-excursion. The hotel and food was excellent, but the provided bikes were inadequate. The front derailleurs were poorly adjusted, and most of the riders had the chains come off during the first ride. Hikes or bike rides were conducted in downpours. Disappointed for charging such a premium price."

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Iceland Walking & Hiking Tour
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4.8/5 Excellent
62 reviews
Group Tour
Lodging level
Standard - 3 star
Physical level
Moderate
Trip pace
Balanced schedule

Visits

Snaefellsnes Peninsula, Thingvellir National park

Highlights

  • Be captivated by the unique landscape of Heimaey, a small island with a famously active volcano
  • Stand between two continents at Thingvellir National Park, an unparalleled geologic marvel
  • The glorious Snaefellsnes Peninsula, a natural wonderland of volcanic peaks, lava flows, sheer cliffs, forgotten beaches and fjords
  • Discover remote and marvelous Thjorsardalur, chosen for its untouched beauty as a location for Game of Thrones
  • Witness the Midnight Sun, one of the most magical natural spectacles on Earth

Themes

Hiking & Walking, National Parks, Nature & Wildlife

What travelers are saying

"Until Covid clears, I would steer clear of Backroads. We were partially through their June 2020 Costa Rica tour when a guest tested Covid positive. She and her husband were isolated. The rest of the group were offered wimpy masks. Nobody was offered Covid testing daily and masks were not required of the guests or staff. The guides kept repeating "not in the CDC guidelines." Our group of six decided that the Backroads response was inadequate so returned home mid-excursion. The hotel and food was excellent, but the provided bikes were inadequate. The front derailleurs were poorly adjusted, and most of the riders had the chains come off during the first ride. Hikes or bike rides were conducted in downpours. Disappointed for charging such a premium price."

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Norway Walking & Hiking Tour
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4.8/5 Excellent
62 reviews
Group Tour
Lodging level
Premium - 4 star
Physical level
Moderate
Trip pace
Balanced schedule

Visits

Bergen, Nigardsbreen, Urnes Stave Church

Highlights

  • Walk and boat among Norway's unbelievably pristine fjords
  • Idyllic treks past farms, waterfalls and fertile pastures dotted with wildflowers
  • Get to know historic Balestrand, an inviting artist village
  • Enjoy a guided excursion on sparkling Nigardsbreen Glacier
  • Visit Urnes Stave Church, built in the 12th century

Themes

Hiking & Walking, National Parks, Nature & Wildlife

What travelers are saying

"Until Covid clears, I would steer clear of Backroads. We were partially through their June 2020 Costa Rica tour when a guest tested Covid positive. She and her husband were isolated. The rest of the group were offered wimpy masks. Nobody was offered Covid testing daily and masks were not required of the guests or staff. The guides kept repeating "not in the CDC guidelines." Our group of six decided that the Backroads response was inadequate so returned home mid-excursion. The hotel and food was excellent, but the provided bikes were inadequate. The front derailleurs were poorly adjusted, and most of the riders had the chains come off during the first ride. Hikes or bike rides were conducted in downpours. Disappointed for charging such a premium price."

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Other trips you may like [sponsored]
Icebergs, Fjords, Polar bears and Arctic wildlife: Svalbard & NE Greenland National Park
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4.8/5 Excellent
100+ reviews
Small Ship Cruise
Why we love them
Their ice-breaking cruise liners take travelers truly off of the beaten path and into the very heart of the polar realms.
Lodging level
Premium - 4 star
Physical level
Moderate
Trip pace
Full schedule

Visits

Svalbard

Highlights

  • Arctic wildlife – musk oxen, seals, walrus, whales and migrating birds – as one of the rare travelers to explore Northeast Greenland National Park, the world’s largest and perhaps most remote.
  • Deep fjords with immense tidewater glaciers

Themes

Nature & Wildlife, Small Ship Cruise

What travelers are saying

"Best vacation so far!! Loved everything, especially highly professional team, that organised the whole trip super safe and on a highest level, the crew that does the cleaning and provides the food literally 24/7, the expedition team was super and the program, lectures, communication - everything couldn’t be better. I miss the cruise! And the best part of course the wild nature, animals. It’s a pity there are strict rules nowadays due to the flu and we couldn’t get closer, but it’s the right thing to protect the nature. Will be back for sure!"

Trip dates & details
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Premium Iceland
Save this trip to your favorites or other list
4.5/5 Excellent
100+ reviews
Small Group Tour
Why we love them
They’re very committed to sustainable and responsible tourism and contribute to important initiatives like climate action.
Lodging level
Standard - 3 star
Physical level
Easy
Trip pace
Full schedule

Visits

Snaefellsnes Peninsula

Highlights

  • Witness the diversity of Iceland's natural phenomena – rootless craters, glacial lakes and geothermal lagoons. Visit Gulfoss, Iceland's largest waterfall, the famous Blue Lagoon, and drive through fields of lava.
  • Get to know Iceland’s gentle giants on board an eco-friendly carbon neutral sailing boat. This Exclusive Experience allows you to respectfully and silently spot whales with the help of an expert guide.
  • Stay in the stylish Fosshotel for your Feature Stay, offering up priceless views of the surrounding landscape, modern comforts and an excellent restaurant that uses the freshest Icelandic produce.
  • Gain an insight into how the eruption of Eyafjallajokull volcano in 2010 has affected the lives of the residents in the Hvolsvollur Valley, then take part in their tree planting project during this Exclusive Experience.
  • From a soak in the Deildartunguhver Hot Spring to a visit to a local artist’s stone carving workshops and a tasting session of Icelandic specialties, your Exclusive Experiences will deepen your understanding of Icelandic culture.
Show more

Themes

High Adventure

What travelers are saying

"We joined the Intrepid “Real Italy Food Tour” and enjoyed it thoroughly. Our tour guide, Micol, was very knowledgeable and provided us with lots of good information. It seems Micol knew many of the staff of the venues we visited, including the pasta making class we attended. Our group of 11 travelers was extremely compatible, which greatly added to the fun and enjoyment."

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Health Safety +

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Arctic Sights and Northern Lights: East Greenland
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4.8/5 Excellent
100+ reviews
Small Ship Cruise
Why we love them
Their ice-breaking cruise liners take travelers truly off of the beaten path and into the very heart of the polar realms.
Lodging level
Premium - 4 star
Physical level
Moderate
Trip pace
Full schedule

Visits

Reykjavík

Highlights

  • An in-depth exploration of remote Scoresby Sund - the world’s most pristine and scenic fjord system
  • A photographer’s paradise with snow-covered mountains, massive glaciers, cathedral like icebergs and resplendent tundra
  • Ancient Thule settlement sites, historic huts and the modern Inuit village of Ittoqqortoormiit.

Themes

Nature & Wildlife, Small Ship Cruise

What travelers are saying

"Best vacation so far!! Loved everything, especially highly professional team, that organised the whole trip super safe and on a highest level, the crew that does the cleaning and provides the food literally 24/7, the expedition team was super and the program, lectures, communication - everything couldn’t be better. I miss the cruise! And the best part of course the wild nature, animals. It’s a pity there are strict rules nowadays due to the flu and we couldn’t get closer, but it’s the right thing to protect the nature. Will be back for sure!"

Trip dates & details
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Three Arctic Islands (Southbound)
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5/5 Excellent
100+ reviews
Small Group Tour
Why we love them
With a huge range of trip styles and themes, they cater to basically every type of traveler out there- even those with super specific interests.
Lodging level
Standard - 3 star
Physical level
Moderate
Trip pace
Balanced schedule

Highlights

  • Discover the wild and rugged coast of eastern Greenland
  • Chance to observe walrus, Polar bear, Arctic terns, kittiwakes and Glaucous gulls
  • An excursion into Scoresbysund, one of the largest fjord complexes in the world
  • If conditions are right, we could sail within 10° of the North Pole!

Themes

National Parks, Nature & Wildlife

What travelers are saying

"Discover Costa Rica is a great itinerary, covering varied habitats around the country and staying 2 nights each at 6 centres. Their birdwatching specials are led by local experts who really know their stuff."

Trip dates & details
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Health Safety +

Generous cancellation

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Copenhagen to Northern Norway
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4.5/5 Excellent
100+ reviews
Small Group Tour
Why we love them
They’re very committed to sustainable and responsible tourism and contribute to important initiatives like climate action.
Lodging level
Standard - 3 star
Physical level
Moderate
Trip pace
Balanced schedule

Visits

Copenhagen, Oslo, Scandinavia, Trondheim

Highlights

  • Spend three nights in the long-adored Lofoten Islands, a patchwork of fishing villages. Head out to the narrow Trollfjord for a chance to see sea eagles and take in some of the most breathtaking scenery.
  • Take a ferry to Vrango Island, a stunning fishing town in the Gothenburg Archipelago, and discover this rocky nature haven by kayak (summer months only).
  • Hop on an e-bike in Tromso, and learn about life hundreds of kilometres north of the Arctic Circle, where the arts and culture scene is thriving despite its isolated, northerly location.
  • Join a local guide and cafe-hop your way around Alingsas, a town known as the Capital of Fika (Swedish cafe and food culture). Learn of the local love affair with coffee, discover the story behind the cafe culture and, of course, treat your tastebuds to sweet Swedish delicacies.
  • Visit Trondheim, which translates as 'a good place to live', stroll past the colourful wooden storehouses flanking the river, ride the northernmost tram and enjoy a forest walk and picnic just like the locals do.
Show more

Themes

Cultural, High Adventure

What travelers are saying

"We joined the Intrepid “Real Italy Food Tour” and enjoyed it thoroughly. Our tour guide, Micol, was very knowledgeable and provided us with lots of good information. It seems Micol knew many of the staff of the venues we visited, including the pasta making class we attended. Our group of 11 travelers was extremely compatible, which greatly added to the fun and enjoyment."

Trip dates & details
Save this trip to your favorites or other list

Health Safety +

More
8 trips exactly matchall of the the filters you selected. We are displaying some similar trips.
My selections:
Hiking & Walking

Arctic Reviews & Ratings

4.8/5  Excellent
126  Reviews
See all Arctic tour reviews
Excellent
44
Great
7
Average
2
Disappointing
0
Terrible
0
A

Anonymous

Jan 2018

Provided byExodus Travels

Wonderful adventure

This was a marvellous trip and a great way of seeing two wonderful areas of the Arctic. In Spitsbergen we saw polar bears and arctic foxes and sailed through the ...

A

Anonymous

Aug 2018

Provided byExodus Travels

Iceland Walking Explorer

An active walking trip through a diverse kaleidoscope of landscapes, from volcanic craters, green verdant hills to snow fields. An excellent way to experience natu...

A

Anonymous

Aug 2017

Provided byExodus Travels

TSF 150801 - Iceland Fantastic !

This was a super trip that didn't disappoint in any area. It did exactly what it said in the itinerary. The scenery was fantastic we had a mixed bunch of nationalit...

A

Anonymous

Aug 2016

Provided byExodus Travels

Outstanding trip!

This was a wonderful holiday which way surpassed my expectations. We were probably lucky in that the weather was warm, dry & clear most of the time &amp...

A

Anonymous

Aug 2016

Provided byExodus Travels

ICELAND WALKING EXPLORER

An exciting, challenging and informative trip. The power of Dettifoss, the beauty of lake Myvatn and Bakkagerdi at midnight, my first ever walk on a glacier. Kristi...

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Arctic Tour Selection Trips

  • While Iceland, northern Scandinavia, and northern Canada are easily accessible by air from the United States; Greenland and some other Arctic areas are not-- so the best way to explore the Arctic regions is often by small, expedition-style cruise ships.
  • If you’re cruising the Arctic, plan well ahead - as far as up to two years - to get your top choice of ship. Many of the cruises follow similar itineraries, so the main difference is the ship itself - take time to explore the varying amenities, passenger count, workshops, naturalists on board, etc.
  • While any trip to the Arctic is adventurous by nature, you don't have to rough it. Some ships come with five-star amenities, while some land-tour operators offer luxury tent camping. 
  • Pay attention to timing of your Arctic travel. If you must see the Northern Lights and are excited by the prospect of cold-weather activities, aim for October through May. If you’re seeking Midnight Sun, visit June through September.
  • While there are few "cheap" voyages to the Arctic, look for value adds such as included airfare, helicopter flights into the interior, and gratuities for the ship’s crew.
  • Prices do vary considerably by length of trip, cabin, ship amenities, month of travel, and other factors.
  • Some Arctic land tours - primarily those that fly into the interior - offer adventurous options such as camping, skiing, mountaineering, and trekking.
  • To see many of the 17 different types of whales that are found in the Arctic waters, consider centering your travel on Nunavut in the Canadian Arctic, a top whale-watching destination.
  • No matter which Arctic cruise or land tour you choose, keep an open mind. There is no guarantee of wildlife sightings, Northern Lights, landings at certain spots - this is the Arctic, after all, so remember, it’s about the journey and the fact that you made it here, to the top of the world.

Additional details

What Countries Are Included in the Arctic Region?

So, you want to travel north - far north - to the Arctic Circle. There are eight different countries that have land within the Arctic Circle, though some of these regions are more interesting (and more accessible) to adventure travelers than others.

The Arctic region countries include Norway, Sweden, Finland, Russia, the United States (by way of Alaska), Canada (including Yukon, Northwest Territories and Nunavut), Denmark (Greenland) and Iceland (on its offshore island of Grimsey).

What and Where is the Arctic Circle?

It’s going to be impressive enough when you tell your friends you’re traveling to the Arctic for your next vacation. Now, here are a few fun and interesting facts about the Arctic Circle and the Arctic region to throw around with friends and colleagues before you depart:

  • The invisible Arctic Circle marks the area where Midnight Sun occurs during the summer and where, in winter, the sun does night rise.
  • The North Pole is the very center of the Arctic Circle.
  • If you travel to Scandinavia, you can witness natural phenomena any time of year - the Midnight Sun, the Northern Lights and polar nights (when the sun does not rise).
  • The Arctic Circle location changes a little bit all the time, based on the earth’s movement -  it is 1,650 miles south from the North Pole to where the line is located, and it is 66° 33′39″ north of the Equator.

Should I Avoid Arctic Travel in Winter?

If you’re seeking the Northern Lights, dog sledding, snowmobiling, ice hotels and other cold-weather Arctic activities, then by all means, don’t shy away from the Arctic region during the winter months. The sun may not appear much during the cold-weather months, but the Arctic Circle shines from November to March in terms of outdoor adventure.

One of the best times to visit the Arctic is right at the tail end of the Arctic winter - March and April, when you can dogsled on firm, snow-packed surfaces, experience the region’s ethereal “blue light” and long shadows, still glimpse the Aurora Borealis (the more north you are), go skiing in East Greenland and Spitsbergen, glimpse Arctic foxes and other awakening wildlife and embark on some of the first expedition cruises of the Arctic sailing season.

This being said, the long hours of darkness may mess with your internal body clock, so veteran Arctic travelers suggest planning your outside activities for the middle of the day when the limited sunlight is shining, then heading inside for museum visits in the later afternoon and early evening.

Packing List for the Arctic

A trip to the Arctic isn’t the time to scale back your packing efforts - you are going to want every layer, every extra pair of socks and every spare phone or camera battery you can possibly fit into your suitcase.

Be sure to pack these essentials for your Arctic cruise and/or Arctic region land tour:

  • Favorite cotton t-shirts and long-sleeved shirts
  • Casual pants
  • Wool sweaters
  • Fleece jacket
  • Long-underwear top and bottom
  • Thick, insulated parka
  • Waterproof jacket
  • Thick wool socks for hiking and being outdoors for long periods
  • Wool or cotton socks for indoor time or inside the ship
  • Windproof, waterproof pants
  • Pocket handwarmers and toewarmers
  • Waterproof gloves
  • Winter hat - snug-fitting so it doesn’t blow away!
  • Scarf or balaclava
  • Comfortable, sturdy hiking or trekking shoes or boots
  • Loungewear for inside
  • Sunscreen and lip balm with sun protection
  • Sunglasses with UV protection
  • Bathing suit (you never know!)
  • Inside, slip-on shoes
  • Daypack
  • Battery chargers for all of your electric devices
  • Seasickness medication, if you are prone
  • Camera, tripod, etc.
  • Spare camera batteries
  • Refillable water bottle

Your Arctic cruise or tour operator will also usually provide you with a complete packing list, depending on how long, where and by which mode you’ll be traveling throughout the Arctic countries and waters.

Common Arctic Cruise Routes

Considering so much of the Arctic region is comprised of the Arctic Ocean, cruising in the polar region is a popular way to see a lot in a short period of time.

If you have up to two weeks and want to get the most out of an Arctic experience, consider a longer, upscale polar cruise - one of the safest, easiest ways to explore the Arctic Circle and give you more than a little to write home about, we promise. It’s even possible to stand at the North Pole these days - get there by rugged icebreaker and feel like a true Arctic adventurer, or take an exhilarating helicopter ride to the top of the world.

The cruise season in the Arctic is from May to September, during the time of the Midnight Sun or 24-hour daylight. This is a popular time to spot colorful Arctic flora, as well as northern wildlife and their young, and to cruise in areas inaccessible during other points of the year.

(Keep in mind that if your goal is to see the Northern Lights, you’ll have to visit during the polar winter and - while not widely available - there has been an increase in the sailing to the very northern parts of Norway during the winter in order to glimpse this magical natural phenomenon.)

Remember, the Arctic region covers a vast area, so spend some time reviewing various polar cruise options and base your choice on how much time you have and what time of year you’ll be sailing. One of the most accessible Arctic cruise routes is to sail along the coast of Norway into the Arctic Circle. And, for the best polar bear viewing, consider Spitsbergen in the Svalbard Archipelago, Greenland or the Canadian Arctic.

Some of the most common Arctic cruise routes include:

1. Svalbard

Halfway between Norway and the North Pole, the Svalbard Archipelago is centered around its largest island, Spitsbergen. Cruises in this high Arctic wilderness allow for exploration of glaciers and fjords, crossing 80º N, where you’ll be just 600 nautical miles from the North Pole, searching for polar bears during the long days of Midnight Sun, seeing Edgeøya and Kvitøya and venturing ashore for hiking and wildlife-viewing expeditions.

A Svalbard cruise has the added benefit of time in Longyearbyen, with its Svalbard Museum, rugged mountain vistas and opportunities for dog sledding and glacier walks.

2. Northwest Passage

Follow in the wake of some of the earliest adventurers - including Franklin, Peary and Amundsen - to see the Arctic region as you sail the route through the Canadian Arctic archipelago that links the northern Atlantic and Pacific oceans. This is one of the best places in the world to see polar bears - Nunavut is the polar bear capital of the Arctic - and you will likely have the chance to explore some of Canada’s thriving Inuit communities.

3. Greenland

Fjords, whales and some of the purest air you’ll ever breathe - a Greenland cruise is a highly sought adventure travel destination. From the abundant whales and massive Ilulissat Icefjord of Disko Bay to the Inuit history and culture of Nuuk, there’s so much beyond the icecap in Greenland.

4. North Pole

Check it off the bucket list and stand at the North Pole. You’ll sail by rugged icebreaker to get there, bullying its way through the icy, freezing waters to deliver you to a destination to which few have traveled.

5. Russia

Perhaps the best-known Russian Arctic cruise destination, Wrangel Island can almost guarantee polar sightings for you. Rumor has it that the island boasts the world’s highest density of polar bear dens and an incredibly high number of cubs are born here in the remote region of Chukota.

Russia Arctic cruises are expedition cruising in every sense of the word - this is a polar region that is not often visited, isolated, rugged, wild - an Arctic adventure opportunity full of bird and marine life and the opportunity to learn from indigenous groups who are eager to share their lifestyle and culture.

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