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Duncan Campbell

Iceland touched me like no other place has before. It's vast sweeping vistas, its powerful, evocative elements, and its sheer beauty - at times desolate, at others, luxurious - has for me made it the premier travel destination bar none.

Having been born and brought up in South Africa with an innate passion for nature and the outdoors, I have always been drawn to explore the diverse landscapes and inhabitants - human and otherwise - of this wondrous and curious world. It's also a means to really getting to know oneself, which I've found is a life-long endeavor, and it's taken me to places as distinct and dissimilar as the Namib desert and Zanzibar, Patagonia and the Utah slickrock country, the Italian Apennines and Delhi's Chandni Chowk, and now, the mother of them all, Iceland.

As an avid traveller, maps are my bedrock, and while poring over them is a delightful pastime in and of itself, they also fuel the excitement that builds through that most essential aspect of the trip: planning. My experiences have helped hone my approach to travel preparation so that efficiency and openness to spontaneous opportunity are harmonious bedfellows. Thus far, it's a mantra that has served me well.

What places and activities do you specialize in?

"Tailor-made trips to explore the untrodden paths and untouched beauty of Iceland: help travelers discover lesser-visited parts of Iceland and add flavor to the more frequently traveled routes; provide personalized service to make sure your holiday is all about you; offer local expertise to provide an authentic experience."

How did you get involved in travel?

"Having lived for almost 20 years in the US, I moved to Italy in 2006, launching myself into travel-related initiatives such as self-publishing an online magazine focused on monthly events, local personalities, seasonal food recipes, and "hidden havens"; making presentations on the appeal of my adopted home in Le Marche; and conducting tours to local attractions, all with an off-the-beaten-track bent. When my new-found passion for Iceland guided me to Iceland Offbeat, I realized I'd found the ideal environment to channel my energies through a shared philosophy towards travel."

Please share a unique travel experience you will never forget.

"On a moody, overcast morning in northern Iceland, along with my wife and son I walked up to the rim of the Hverfjall crater. Upon getting to the top, I was immediately filled with a raw emotion that brought me almost to tears - the black earth sweeping away in every direction, the sense of a living earth beneath my feet, a feeling that I was in the presence of the gods."

Top itineraries and travel advice
Family itineraries
Road trip itineraries

Recent trip reviews for Duncan

It’s been a year since we embarked on our fir...
Iceland | Mar 17 - Mar 24, 2023

Lily
Lily M.
Singapore | Reviewed on Mar 12, 2024

It’s been a year since we embarked on our first ever Iceland trip as a family. Duncan was incredibly patient, detailed and attentive as we planned the trip months ahead. All the experiences and accommodation arrangements were spot on and suited our budget and adventure appetite. Duncan stayed in touch almost daily while we were in Iceland.

When there were hiccups due to weather, Duncan (and Michele when Duncan could not) were always a text away to rearrange our itinerary.

Definitely recommend their services especially if you are visiting Iceland for the first time.

Local specialist: Duncan Campbell
Duncan
Duncan Campbell
Local specialist in Italy | Replied on Mar 12, 2024

Thanks so much for your great review, Lily, it was a pleasure to help, and glad your trip went smoothly.
Duncan

Duncan did an amazing job planning my family'...
Iceland | Dec 18 - Dec 27, 2023

F
finley B.
Richardson, TX | Reviewed on Dec 29, 2023
Duncan did an amazing job planning my family's trip to Iceland. He always responded promptly and was patient with me as we figured out a plan that would work best for our 9 day trip. It was a Christmas trip to remember! Read more

Duncan did an amazing job planning my family's trip to Iceland. He always responded promptly and was patient with me as we figured out a plan that would work best for our 9 day trip. It was a Christmas trip to remember!

Hotel Reviews
Hótel Keflavík by Keflavík Airport
Keflavík

Wonderful spot to stay since we arrived late and needed to hit the road early.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Hótel Húsafell
Húsafell, Borgarbyggð

Such a beautiful spot in West Iceland, with little around to take away from the beauty.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Hótel Egilsen
Stykkishólmur

Absolutely loved the character of this place. So intimate and fun with its unique flair.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Hótel Klaustur
Kirkjubæjarklaustur

The staff was amazing and made sure that our stay, over Christmas Eve, was very enjoyable. The food was so good!

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Hotel Gullfoss
Tungufell

Great location near the geyser and waterfall. We loved the staff and this location.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Sandhotel
Reykjavík

What a great location in Reykjavík! We could walk to everything we wanted to see and everyone was so kind.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Activity Reviews
Vidgelmir cave guided tour
Vidgelmir cave guided tour
Iceland

This cave tour was such a fun experience. Our guide was knowledgable and entertaining. He led a wonderful tour!

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Langjokull Glacier Snowmobiling
Langjokull Glacier Snowmobiling
Iceland

The snowmobiling was a thrilling experience. It was the coldest day of our trip so definitely recommend packing plenty of layers. The staff was great and the view from on top of the glacier cannot be matched.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Crystal Blue Ice Cave
Crystal Blue Ice Cave
Iceland

This was by far my family's favorite tour. I would do this over and over again. It was an unreal experience to walk on and in the largest glacier in Europe.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Local specialist: Duncan Campbell
Duncan
Duncan Campbell
Local specialist in Italy | Replied on Dec 30, 2023

What a great review, Finley, thank you so much. It was a real pleasure working with you, and I'm so glad your trip was a success.

What an easy/breezy way to set up a trip!
Iceland | Sep 11 - Sep 22, 2023

Kim
Kim J.
Moab, UT | Reviewed on Dec 08, 2023
What an easy/breezy way to set up a new trip to literally anywhere. We spent 12 days exploring Iceland and I cannot imagine how difficult it would have been to set this trip up on my own. Our specialist, Duncan, helped us with every step of the way from hotels to vehicles to fun activities. I will be using KimKim again for sure for other countries and cannot recommend working with Duncan enough! Read more

What an easy/breezy way to set up a new trip to literally anywhere. We spent 12 days exploring Iceland and I cannot imagine how difficult it would have been to set this trip up on my own. Our specialist, Duncan, helped us with every step of the way from hotels to vehicles to fun activities. I will be using KimKim again for sure for other countries and cannot recommend working with Duncan enough!

Activity Review
Blue Lagoon
Iceland

Expensive but worth it. Very well set up and a great way to start (or end) an Iceland trip.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Local specialist: Duncan Campbell
Duncan
Duncan Campbell
Local specialist in Italy | Replied on Dec 08, 2023

Thanks for the great review, Kim, I'm so glad you had a rewarding trip, with (mostly) good weather. It was a real pleasure working with you!

Awesome trip. Saw so much in 10 days and real...
Iceland | Aug 3 - Aug 13, 2023

Jennifer
Jennifer R.
Hanover, PA | Reviewed on Aug 20, 2023
Awesome trip. Saw so much in 10 days and really appreciated having to plan so little!! Totally worth the cost and wil use kimkim in the future. Read more

Awesome trip. Saw so much in 10 days and really appreciated having to plan so little!! Totally worth the cost and wil use kimkim in the future.

Hotel Reviews
Fosshotel Hellnar
Hellnar

Lovely location. Rooms basic and small but clean. Restaurant was excellent. Locks on room doors were REALLY hard to open with the keys. They really need to modernize the locks.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Great hike along the coast from the hotel. Views of the glacier.
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Fosshótel Reykholt
Reykholt

Much more modern than the first Fosshotel. We enjoyed the hot tub and spa here. The restaurant was also very good.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
The Greenhouse Hotel
Hveragerdi

Cool place in a great area. Rooms were small but nice. Food hall downstairs was great for late meals when everything else was closed.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Very helpful thank Ben we had a problem with a room lock.
Cleanliness & Comfort
Volcano Huts Þórsmörk
Thorsmork

We stayed in the Glamping tents. They were beautiful. My only complaint is that the tiny heater in tent number two did a pretty poor job of keeping us warm at night. Thank goodness for the heavy down comforters!

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Great at recommending hikes.
Cleanliness & Comfort
Better beat for tents. Showers were also cold unless you waited for the first one. Bathrooms were pretty nasty and need to be cleaned better.
Hotel Anna
Hvolsvollur

Pretty dated but very nice rooms. Their new hot tub was beautiful. The restaurant was excellent.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Hótel Klaustur
Kirkjubæjarklaustur

Lovely, modern hotel in a tiny town in South Iceland. The rooms were beautiful. The common spaces at the hotel are also beautiful. The breakfast was excellent.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Apótek Hotel by Keahotels
Reykjavík

Great location right in the heart of historic area. Rooms were small, but well appointed. The bathrooms are beautiful. I was a bit disappointed that the bar was so crazy but we happen to be there on the day of the pride parade so I’m guessing it’s not normally that crowded.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Efficient bit not terribly friendly.
Cleanliness & Comfort
Activity Reviews
Blue Lagoon
Iceland

Magical first stop. It was not very crowded because we were there early. The kids loved it.

Quality of Experience
The dressing rooms need to be warmer, especially because they don’t give you robes unless you pay extra. Bigger towels would also be nice.
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Staff not very friendly.
Silfra Snorkeling
Silfra Snorkeling
Iceland

Did this with her two teenage boys. It was very cool. It was a bit cold, but not intolerable. The staff was awesome.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Solheimajokull Glacier Hike
Solheimajokull Glacier Hike
Iceland

I loved this experience. It was very informative and beautiful.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Jokulsarlon glacier lagoon Zodiac boat tour
Jokulsarlon glacier lagoon Zodiac boat tour
Iceland

Our boat captain, Adam, was fantastic. He clearly loves his job and his country. This was my favorite experience of the whole trip.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Local specialist: Duncan Campbell
Duncan
Duncan Campbell
Local specialist in Italy | Replied on Aug 20, 2023

Thanks so much for your great and informative review, Jennifer. It was a pleasure to work with you and I'm really glad you had such a wonderful time with your family. Thanks for the pics as well, I always enjoy seeing travelers in situ. Wishing you exciting adventures in the future.
Duncan

Duncan made us feel well taken care of and th...
Iceland | Jul 6 - Jul 15, 2023

carol
carol c.
Centennial, CO | Reviewed on Jul 21, 2023
Duncan made us feel well taken care of and the itinerary was fantastic. I was a little concerned about accommodations but we stayed in nothing but lovely places and the food all over Iceland was delicious. A beautiful country and the self drive option is the way to go! Read more

Duncan made us feel well taken care of and the itinerary was fantastic. I was a little concerned about accommodations but we stayed in nothing but lovely places and the food all over Iceland was delicious. A beautiful country and the self drive option is the way to go!

Hotel Reviews
Fosshotel Stykkisholmur
Stykkishólmur

Very nice accommodation, restaurant dinner was first rate

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Húsavík Cape Hotel
Husavik

My favorite. We had a corner room with bay views, lovely. Gentleman at the front desk was so delightful! A fun touch was the Eurovision exhibit. Not far from the Geoseas for a lovely soak in the evening!

Authenticity & Character
Simple classy decor
Location
Staff
Front desk and a delightful chef!
Cleanliness & Comfort
Hótel Laxá
Myvatn
Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Hotel Latrabjarg
Vesturbyggð

Seemed family run and the couple were so lovely! Food good, beds comfy!

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Storm Hotel by Keahotels
Reykjavík
Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Local specialist: Duncan Campbell
Duncan
Duncan Campbell
Local specialist in Italy | Replied on Jul 24, 2023

Thanks so much for your positive review Carol, I'm so gald you enjoyed it, particularly after your fall. You have a great attitude and it was a pleasure working you. Looking forward to welcoming you back to Iceland sometime in the future.

Trip driving the Ring Road around Iceland.
Iceland | Jul 7 - Jul 18, 2023

Nels
Nels M.
Shaw, DC | Reviewed on Jul 20, 2023
Duncan did a great job of planning our driving times and giving us so many options on sights and hiking. The hotels were nice and very accommodating. We enjoyed having the breakfasts included, made for a good send off every day.
The sights were amazing. The activities he planned for us were great, the 3 water parks were so relaxing, the walking on a glacier was a first for us, the zodiac boat ride with the icebergs was fantastic.
All the hiking we did each day was an experience in sights...
Read more

Duncan did a great job of planning our driving times and giving us so many options on sights and hiking. The hotels were nice and very accommodating. We enjoyed having the breakfasts included, made for a good send off every day.
The sights were amazing. The activities he planned for us were great, the 3 water parks were so relaxing, the walking on a glacier was a first for us, the zodiac boat ride with the icebergs was fantastic.
All the hiking we did each day was an experience in sights and endurance that we enjoyed.
The restaurants and also the different foods was something that gave us a great understanding of what Iceland had to offer.
I just have to close by saying Duncan listened to what would work for us and he came through with a home run. We would definitely use KimKim again and ask for Duncan.

Hotel Reviews
Skuggi Hotel Reykjavík by Keahotels
Reykjavík

It was a decent place for me to sleep and eat. The staff was helpful and the check-in process was smooth. The breakfasts were enjoyable and the location was convenient. Overall, it was comfortable and met our needs.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Hotel Langaholt
Stadarstadur

It was a satisfactory stay. The hotel staff was accommodating and the check-in process was seamless. The hotel met my expectations for a one-night stay.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Birkilauf Guesthouse
Lake Myvatn

This was a bit different as it was a shared kitchen and living space which was a new experience.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Activity Reviews
Myvatn Nature Baths
Myvatn Nature Baths
Lake Mývatn

The nature baths were calming and enjoyable. The weather was good which made the experience even more enjoyable

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Blue Lagoon
Iceland

It was a relaxing activity right after a long flight. I had a good time and slept well after.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Jokulsarlon glacier lagoon Zodiac boat tour
Jokulsarlon glacier lagoon Zodiac boat tour
Iceland

This was an amazing experience. The tour was well-organized.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Solheimajokull Glacier Hike
Solheimajokull Glacier Hike
Iceland

This was a highlight of the trip. The hike was arranged well and we started at the time it was scheduled. The guides were friendly and answered all our questions.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Local specialist: Duncan Campbell
Duncan
Duncan Campbell
Local specialist in Italy | Replied on Jul 21, 2023

Hi Nels, thanks so much for your great review, it's much appreciated. I'm so glad your trip went well, and the you were able to get a really good taste of Iceland's wonders. I wish you smooth and rewarding travels in the future.

Outstanding Itinerary
Iceland | Jul 7 - Jul 18, 2023

R
Robert K.
Janesville, WI | Reviewed on Jul 20, 2023
We were very pleased with the entire trip. The itinerary worked out just perfectly. The pre-booked activities were excellent, especially the zodiac ride, glacier hike and the Sky Lagoon. Duncan’s suggestions for hikes and points of interest were very helpful; we did many of them. The accommodations were very good with the exception of Heradsskolinn Guest House. So very glad that we booked with Duncan and Kimkim and would recommend the company to others. Read more

We were very pleased with the entire trip. The itinerary worked out just perfectly. The pre-booked activities were excellent, especially the zodiac ride, glacier hike and the Sky Lagoon. Duncan’s suggestions for hikes and points of interest were very helpful; we did many of them. The accommodations were very good with the exception of Heradsskolinn Guest House.

So very glad that we booked with Duncan and Kimkim and would recommend the company to others.

Hotel Reviews
Skuggi Hotel Reykjavík by Keahotels
Reykjavík
Authenticity & Character
Modern and a bit sterile
Location
Easy walking to restaurants and attractions
Staff
All good
Cleanliness & Comfort
Hotel Langaholt
Stadarstadur

A bit tired and in need of update

Authenticity & Character
A bit run down and the dining was poor
Location
Nice views, and enjoyed the golf course
Staff
Very helpful and friendly
Cleanliness & Comfort
Rooms and public places were clean
Hótel Valaskjálf
Egilsstadir
Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Gauksmyri Lodge
Gauksmyri
Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Fosshótel Vatnajökull
Lindarbakki
Authenticity & Character
Location
Very pastoral and quiet
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Hótel Kría
Vík
Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Héradsskólinn Historic Guesthouse
Laugarvatn

Worst accommodations on our trip. Restaurant was overwhelmed and food poor. No shower in room, tub only. Made us remove our shoes at the door. Staff was over whelmed and confused.

Authenticity & Character
Too authentic! Like staying in a dormitory. Uncomfortable and in need of update.
Location
Staff
Confused and under staffed
Cleanliness & Comfort
Overcrowded, and noisy
Activity Reviews
Blue Lagoon
Iceland

Too crowded and a bit tired.

Quality of Experience
Vatnshellir lava cave tour
Vatnshellir lava cave tour
Iceland

Very informative and an excellent guide.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Myvatn Nature Baths
Myvatn Nature Baths
Lake Mývatn

Very enjoyable and organized.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Jokulsarlon glacier lagoon Zodiac boat tour
Jokulsarlon glacier lagoon Zodiac boat tour
Iceland

One of the trip highlights! Very well organized with excellent staff and a super guide.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Solheimajokull Glacier Hike
Solheimajokull Glacier Hike
Iceland

Terrific experience!! Great staff and guide, very conscientious. A real highlight of our trip.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Local specialist: Duncan Campbell
Duncan
Duncan Campbell
Local specialist in Italy | Replied on Jul 21, 2023

Hi Robert, thanks so much, I appreciate your positive review, and am really happy things worked out well for you. It's very useful to hear which aspects of your trip were highlights, and it would be equally useful if you could share your experience at the Heradsskolinn Guest House so that we could learn for the future.

Iceland
Iceland | Jun 9 - Jun 18, 2023

M
Marion L.
Leawood, KS | Reviewed on Jun 26, 2023

Duncan was a terrific planner and guide for our first trip to Iceland! He listened to our interests and provided terrific options. The itinerary, restaurant suggestions, and optional activities were all first-rate! When we had a few questions during our trip, Duncan was immediately available & always helpful! Overall a great experience! Thank you Duncan!!!

Local specialist: Duncan Campbell
Duncan
Duncan Campbell
Local specialist in Italy | Replied on Jun 26, 2023

Marion, thanks so much for the great review. I'm really pleased you and your family had a great trip, it was my pleasure to help create it.

Regards
Duncan

My son and I had the trip of a lifetime! Havi...
Iceland | May 18 - Jun 1, 2023

Julie
Julie S.
Wausau, WI | Reviewed on Jun 20, 2023
My son and I had the trip of a lifetime! Having Duncan and our local person to contact as well was the way to plan a trip. They helped us when weather unexpectedly changed our plans, they also made our trip exactly like we asked them too! Each activity was exactly what we wanted and more. I look forward to using them in the future. Read more

My son and I had the trip of a lifetime! Having Duncan and our local person to contact as well was the way to plan a trip. They helped us when weather unexpectedly changed our plans, they also made our trip exactly like we asked them too! Each activity was exactly what we wanted and more. I look forward to using them in the future.

Hotel Reviews
Blue Hotel Fagrilundur
Bláskógabyggd
Authenticity & Character
Nice place
Location
Close to the sites we were touring for the day
Staff
Helpful
Cleanliness & Comfort
Nice place
Hotel Katla by Keahotels
Vík
Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Hótel Vestmannaeyjar
Vestmannaeyjar

Unfortunately we did not get to stay at this hotel, but if it was like any of the others, weather was the reason but they found us a great alternative!

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Hotel Jökull
Höfn
Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Hótel Valaskjálf
Egilsstadir
Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Sigló Hotel
Siglufjörður
Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Hotel Hvammstangi Guesthouse
Hvammstangi
Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Hotel Isafjördur
Ísafjörður
Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Fosshotel Westfjords
Patreksfjörður
Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Fosshotel Stykkisholmur
Stykkishólmur
Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Fosshótel Reykholt
Reykholt
Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Fosshotel Baron
Reykjavík
Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Berjaya Hotel Myvatn
Myvatn

We had the best room!

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Activity Reviews
The Geothermal Vok Baths
The Geothermal Vok Baths
Iceland

The Vok Baths were a great place to unwind. At first, I was hesitant due to fatigue, but it turned out to be the perfect way to relax.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Myrdalsjokull glacier snowmobiling
Myrdalsjokull glacier snowmobiling
Iceland

Snowmobiling on the glacier was an unforgettable experience. Being from Wisconsin, snowmobiling isn't new, but doing it on a glacier was thrilling!

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Jokulsarlon glacier lagoon amphibian boat tour
Jokulsarlon glacier lagoon amphibian boat tour
Iceland

The tour was fascinating. We saw seals and got to touch a piece of iceberg that's thousands of years old. However, it was also a stark reminder of global warming.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Husavik Whale Watching
Husavik Whale Watching
Iceland

The whale watching was one of the highlights of the trip. We got to see whales up close, which was a fantastic experience.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Local specialist: Duncan Campbell
Duncan
Duncan Campbell
Local specialist in Italy | Replied on Jun 20, 2023

Thanks so much for this glowing review, Julie, I'm so glad you and Jacob had a great experience.

Regards
Duncan

A family adventure in Iceland
Iceland | Jun 9 - Jun 17, 2023

Erin
Erin B.
Mansfield City, CT | Reviewed on Jun 20, 2023
Our family of five had an amazing trip to Iceland. I am so appreciative of the itinerary Duncan put together for our family. You could tell he listened to our families’ interest in planning the trip. Finding activities to interest three kids ranging from 19 to 13 in age. The country of Iceland is unlike anywhere we have traveled, pictures do not do it justice. We had a chance to see a lot of the country during our visit. Driving in Iceland was very easy especially with access to... Read more

Our family of five had an amazing trip to Iceland. I am so appreciative of the itinerary Duncan put together for our family. You could tell he listened to our families’ interest in planning the trip. Finding activities to interest three kids ranging from 19 to 13 in age. The country of Iceland is unlike anywhere we have traveled, pictures do not do it justice.

We had a chance to see a lot of the country during our visit. Driving in Iceland was very easy especially with access to Wi-Fi in the car. That made a huge difference. Duncan provided a detailed map with optional stops to see waterfalls, glacier views, beaches and hiking trails. We definitely made the most of our time seeing all the must see stops and some hidden gems.

We were very fortunate with the weather with very little rain and just a couple of heavy wind days. Our boat ride out to Melrakkaey Island to see the puffins was canceled due to the wind.

We did a number of activities- snorkeling, snowmobiling, a glacier hike, a zodiac lagoon ride and lot of gorgeous hikes. The tour companies were all great. It was an easy check in process and our guides were friendly and shared lots of information about Iceland.

For our family having a detailed plan and a variety of areas to explore at our own pace works best. We could stay longer at a location, stop for lunch on our schedule, skip or add stops depending on where the day takes us. This would have been a different trip if we had been sitting on a tour bus or trying to plan our a trip on our own. This was a perfect blend.

Hotel Reviews
Fosshotel Nupar
Kálfafell

The hotel is in unique location with a beautiful view and a small individual balcony. The rooms were clean and comfortable. The restaurant food was good but the service was just so-so. We drove about 20 minutes away to the closest town for dinner outside of the hotel after the first night.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Wish the blackout shades covered more of the window
Fosshotel Hellnar
Hellnar

The location is amazing- stunning view of the ocean. We spent a lot of time looking for whales from the balcony. The rooms were clean and comfortable. The staff was very friendly. There is a cliff walk just off the hotel that has gorgeous views of the coastline.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Guesthouse Flúðir - Grund
Hrunamannahreppur

This was our least favorite hotel. The rooms were clean and the staff was friendly but the location wasn’t great nor was it close to activities we had planned. We didn’t have hot water for showers. The restaurant however was good. We had a very nice dinner our first night.

Authenticity & Character
Location
S
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Eyja Guldsmeden Hotel
Reykjavik

Unique hotel. The rooms and beds were very comfortable. Breakfast had great options and the bar/lounge was open late. It doesn’t have a view of Reykjavik or the harbor but it’s a short walk to the harbor. This hotel had the best blackout shades, we all got a great night’s sleep.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Activity Reviews
Vatnshellir Lava Cave Tour
Vatnshellir Lava Cave Tour
Snæfellsnes Peninsula

This was a fun stop and really interesting to see

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Silfra Snorkeling
Silfra Snorkeling
Iceland

This was such a unique experience. It is definitely cold but worth it. The water is crystal clear. Our guide was great and very funny. He also took these awesome digital photos while we snorkeled that we purchased for at a reasonable cost

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Myrdalsjokull glacier snowmobiling
Myrdalsjokull glacier snowmobiling
Iceland

We loved this experience. Amazing view of the glacier while you are out on the ride. The snowmobiles were easy to operate even for a first times. My kids 19, 17 and 13 had so much fun. Our guide was great and we had a chance to stop half way through to soak in the scenery and take some photos. I would highly recommend this activity.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Skaftafell Glacier Hike
Skaftafell Glacier Hike
Iceland

We were able to do a hike on the lower part of the glacier. It was an easy hike- not quite what we were expecting based on the photos. We did the 3 hour hike but that includes the ride to and from the glacier and the walk to get to the ice cap. If I were to do it again I would select the 5 or 7 hour hike that takes you further into the glacier. But it was still a great activity that we all enjoyed.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Our guide Anna was fantastic- very knowledgeable and answered lots of questions.
Transport
Jokulsarlon glacier lagoon Zodiac boat tour
Jokulsarlon glacier lagoon Zodiac boat tour
Iceland

Amazing experience- not to be missed. It’s hard to describe and pictures don’t do it justice but the lagoon is stunning. We also saw several seals sunbathing on icebergs. If we had time we would have gone a second time.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
You can tell the guides love what they do, proud of their country and care about conservation
Iceland Thermal Bath Experience
Iceland Thermal Bath Experience
Iceland

This spa was amazing. The seven steps were perfect. And the location is beautiful looking out at the water. The large glass window in the sauna just adds to the relaxation. We went to 3 thermal spas and this one was the clear favorite.

Quality of Experience
Local specialist: Duncan Campbell
Duncan
Duncan Campbell
Local specialist in Italy | Replied on Jun 20, 2023

Erin, thank you so much for your detailed review. I am so glad you had good weather and were able to experience everything to the full. You were a real pleasure to work with!