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active 16 hours ago

Noga Heyman

I fell in love with Iceland during my first visit in 2012, and I'm sure you will, too! Whether you're looking to relax in the hot springs, embark on a multiday trek, or dive into the rich Viking history, I'll create the perfect itinerary tailored just for you. I'm passionate about crafting journeys that go beyond the typical tourist experience.

Whether you're seeking adventure in Iceland's rugged landscapes, immersing yourself in local traditions, or simply enjoying the serene beauty of the countryside, I'm here to design an itinerary that perfectly matches your interests. Travel should be personal and transformative, which is why I focus on creating meaningful experiences that allow you to connect deeply with both the land and its people. My goal is to help you discover Iceland in a way that feels uniquely yours while also supporting the preservation of this incredible destination.

How did you get involved in travel?

"I spent several years living in Iceland, traveling across the country and immersing myself in its beauty. I've enjoyed discovering the vibrant culture and cuisine of Reykjavík and escaping to the stunning landscapes beyond the city. With a deep love for nature, hiking, and waterfalls, I'm eager to share my passion for this incredible country with fellow independent travelers."

Please share a unique travel experience you will never forget.

"A friend invited me to visit his family's hometown, a charming fishing village nestled in northern Iceland. That evening, we headed to the local pub, a cozy spot filled with Icelanders. As we settled in and sipped on our cold Einstök beers, a song started blaring from the speakers. To my surprise, everyone in the pub—except for me—began singing along to the Icelandic classic with great enthusiasm. It was a rare and authentic moment - I still listen to that song occasionally for a wave of nostalgia."

Top itineraries and travel advice

Favorite experiences

Reykjadalur Valley Hike

Known as "Steam Valley," Reykjadalur Valley features a unique landscape of varying colors and terrains, complete with mystical steam seeping through the ground. Located just outside the town of Hveragerði (less than a 1-hour drive from Reykjavík), the valley is an important part of the Hengill...

Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon & Diamond Beach

You'll find the Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon between the towns of Hof and Höfn on the country's famed South Coast. Here you'll have the chance to see one of the unique sights in Iceland: icebergs floating out to sea, resting and shimmering upon a black-sand beach. Once you reach the lagoon, you can...

South Coast Waterfalls & Beaches

Iceland's scenic South Coast is home to many of the country's most famous attractions—and some offbeat ones! Enjoy a drive cruising along the Ring Road (Route 1) and stopping to view world-famous waterfalls and beaches while passing scenic glaciers and volcanoes along the way.Seljalandsfoss...

Recent trip reviews for Noga

Best Trip Ever - Hands Down!
Iceland | May 24 - Jun 3, 2025

Rick
Rick Y.
Chicago, IL | Reviewed on Jun 10, 2025
Our family trip to Iceland was the best family vacation we have ever experienced and I give kimkim all of the credit for making it happen smoothly. I can't thank Noga (our local specialist), enough for her skillful, end-to-end planning that allowed us connect all of the dots on a 10-day itinerary that included six hotels, pre-reserved daily activities (i.e., Kayaking, Rafting, Horseback Riding, Whale Watching, etc.) and included self-guided experiences aligned with our family... Read more

Our family trip to Iceland was the best family vacation we have ever experienced and I give kimkim all of the credit for making it happen smoothly. I can't thank Noga (our local specialist), enough for her skillful, end-to-end planning that allowed us connect all of the dots on a 10-day itinerary that included six hotels, pre-reserved daily activities (i.e., Kayaking, Rafting, Horseback Riding, Whale Watching, etc.) and included self-guided experiences aligned with our family interests.

Logistics couldn't have been better. We circled Iceland on the "Ring Road" with extended stays in locations that allowed us to see what we wanted to see (and do). We knew we wanted to be outside as much as possible to see the incredible, natural wonders Iceland serves up around each turn. The hotels and outfitters kimkim chose to facilitate our accommodations and adventures were superb. Everyone was friendly, insightful and you could see they enjoyed being in the business they were in, whether it was hospitality or adventure guides. Usually, I am the master planner on our family trips, but Noga was excellent in conducting high-level planning to capture wishes and expectations, price range, allocation of time, and then detailed planning took place. This part of the process was extremely informative, completely collaborative, and left me in the driver's seat to make final decisions. Kimkim did all of the planning legwork that is essential in planning a successful vacation experience, particularly in a country I knew nothin about. The ROI (return on investment) with kimkim was extremely high for me. You can measure that in the satisfaction of of everyone participating in the trip, which for me was my family. My reputation as being awesome Dad is still intact.

Because of Noga and the kimkim team (Carina for sure), I intend to use kimkim again on a future international trip we are considering.

Hotel Reviews
The Greenhouse Hotel
Hveragerdi

Wonderful in-town setting that was clean, cozy and comfortable. We arrived to late too sample dinner but the breakfast buffet the next day was excellent, and the staff were very friendly and accommodating. We only stayed one night. We felt this was one of the better hotels on our 10-day trip, and would stay here again.

Authenticity & Character
Open atmosphere in the main common areas. Not commercial or gaudy. Exuded one-of-a kind identity versus being institutional.
Location
We arrived relatively late in the day given all of the activities and sights we experienced earlier. Location kept us on our primary route and was a great first stay. We were given a warm, friendly greeting by the reception,
Staff
They seemed really glad to see us and everyone was able to converse in English which was greatly appreciated.
Cleanliness & Comfort
Hótel Jökulsárlón - Glacier Lagoon Hotel
Hofn

A great, secluded location near the coast and right off the Ring Road that provided contemporary charm and elegance. While we were unable to take advantage of internal services such as hot tub, pool, and sauna due to our time constraints, it was clear guests were enjoying all of them. Dinners were elegantly prepared and catered to a broad set of tastes and preferences. We were able to save time by having a breakfast to go option that allowed us to select various food items and take in the car. Views of the glacier outside our hotel room were fantastic. Hotel exuded more upscale in terms of services and furnishings. Would definitely revisit again.

Authenticity & Character
Seclusion and elegance.
Location
Isolated yet easy to reach. Setting retained a sense of wilderness versus town-like. If you plan to spend several days in an Iceland Hotel this is the one to choose. Well positioned to see sights and do things.
Staff
There was a waiter we had for dinner who was from Spain and I believe his name was Antonio. He was quite friendly, humorous and helpful.
Cleanliness & Comfort
Berjaya Hotel Mývatn
Mývatn

Arrived late, missed dinner and nothing was available in town. That situation was on us, but points out there are, at times, few options to eat when travelling the Ring Road. We intentionally prioritized seeing the country and taking advantage of extended daylight. Seemed a little harder to move our luggage in and out of the hotel. Room was warm, but it did have a mobile fan. Windows could open but there were no screens and some flies were beginning to hatch outside so we just used the fan. Not crazy about the overall location, however we did find a wonderful homemade, farm fresh, ice-cream parlor in the area and "Daddy's Pizza" was great for a lunch.

Authenticity & Character
Staff
Staff were professional and adequate, but not necessarily engaging and friendly.
Cleanliness & Comfort
Fosshotel Husavik
Husavik

We loved the town of Husavik and the Fosshotel Husavik was well situated to enable exploration of the harbor, surrounding restaurants and shopping. Staff were helpful and accommodating.

Authenticity & Character
Roomy, Spacious, Pleasant
Location
Exactly where we wanted to be. Our priority was proximity to the harbor and Geo Sea Hot Springs. Nestled right behind a beautiful church.
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Hotel Búdir
Búðir

Stayed two nights, incredible location with views of the surrounding mountains and ocean lagoon. Staff were very friendly and helpful. Service was excellent.

Authenticity & Character
Hotel has a one-of-a-kind charm that makes you feel welcome and at home. Loved the common areas and views out back. Rooms were well apportioned.
Location
Remote location nestled within Icelandic splendor. Only building nearby was the historic "Black Church", which also featured hikes to the coast.
Staff
One of the key attributes of the staff, and this was true in a few of the hotels we visited, is they (like us) are from another country and are here because they want to be. I found that to be super important in the delivery of the service. They are excited about Iceland as we are. That isn't to say native Icelanders aren't excited about their country because they are as well.
Cleanliness & Comfort
Eyja Guldsmeden Hotel
Reykjavik

Our last night in Iceland we stayed at this hotel and didn't have a lot of exposure to internal services. First impressions ... the reception area is cramped (right next to dining), the access to elevators was somewhat impeded with construction / barrier. We did not eat dinner or breakfast here.

Authenticity & Character
Nothing really stood out or differentiated the hotel itself. Was a bit more institutional given it is in Iceland's largest city versus the smaller rural location that we mostly visited on out trip.
Location
While we walked to the Hallgrimskirkja church, the Loki Cafe, and the Rainbow Street (about 15-20 minutes away) the immediate location was not necessarily scenic or historic. We were fine with just having a good hotel to sleep in.
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Activity Reviews
Horse Riding on Black Sand Beach
Horse Riding on Black Sand Beach
Iceland

We loved the team of guides at the Black Sand Beach. The horse ride was a good way to see the beach and surrounding area. Everything was executed well. Icelandic horses have a charm all their own.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Glacier Ice Cave Experience
Glacier Ice Cave Experience
Iceland

Overall an entertaining and informative tour into an ice cave contained in the 2nd largest glacier in Iceland, something we had never done before. The previous year we visited glaciers in Canada, but this was a more hands-on exposure through both lava fields and glacial structures. Had hoped for more individual cave rooms than what we saw, but that is a function of mother nature versus the outfitter.

Quality of Experience
The trek revealed a great deal about Iceland's volcanic origins and dynamic glacial interaction ... glacial melt, cave formation, etc.
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Boris was outstanding. His expertise, familiarity with the area, knowledge transfer, and sense of humor kept everyone engaged.
Transport
Learned a great deal during the ride to the glacier about how they made the initial roads and the surrounding geology.
Goðafoss Waterfall
Goðafoss Waterfall
Iceland

There are so many waterfalls in Iceland that you lose count. You will see high volume, forceful displays of hydraulics that will amaze anyone, as well as small, poetic wisps of water cascading down a huge cliff. That being said, Godafoss was our favorite as a beautiful, quintessential waterfall that could easily be our trip icon.

Quality of Experience
Godafoss is nestled within a picturesque landscape that looks like pure Icelandic countryside. Aesthetically beautiful. Great picture taking.
Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon Kayaking Excursion
Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon Kayaking Excursion
Iceland

Great kayaking is all about what you are doing and where you are doing it. It doesn't get any better than kayaking a glacial, iceberg-laded lagoon. Equipment was superb.

Quality of Experience
Never did this before. Location is right next to the Diamond Beach. You can spend a fair amount of time just touring on foot.
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Everything and everyone was top notch.
Stuðlagil Canyon
Stuðlagil Canyon
Iceland

Just amazing!

Whale Watching RIB Boat
Whale Watching RIB Boat
Iceland

Another one of those "we've never done this before" experiences that Iceland seems to deliver all over the island. Can't say enough about how much we anticipated this particular activity. My daughter just graduated in zoology and wishes to become a marine biologist. This was partly her idea and I have to say it exceeded everyone's expectations. You can't make whales magically appear, but we saw plenty of humpbacks.

Quality of Experience
Rib Boats are smaller, faster, and hold fewer people. I think this is the way to go versus larger, slower whale watching boats,
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Completely professional, friendly, highly skilled and entertaining.
Transport
Maximizes ability to quickly seize an opportunity and get you closer to the action.
GeoSea Geothermal Sea Baths Experience
GeoSea Geothermal Sea Baths Experience
Iceland

I'm personally not a big fan of spas or bathing with strangers but my wife and daughter enjoyed it. As far as Icelandic spas go I think this one is a little more scenic (oceanic views) and private (fewer people) versus the gigantic Blue Lagoon.

Quality of Experience
Seemed a bit more upscale and I could see how people who enjoy this type of activity for relaxation and/or socialization would really enjoy it.
Explore Reykjavík
Explore Reykjavík
Reykjavík

We opted for more time touring of the country versus seeing Reykyavik. I personaly would have like to have taken more time to see the city. The day we were visiting Reykavik was quite cold and windy as a gale had swept into the area. We walked to the old town section from our hotel and it was a lot of fun. There is really no crime to speak of so we felt completely safe. We walked to Hallgrimskirkja and enjoyed the Loki Cafe (lamb soup was fantastic), which was right next door. The girls wanted to see the Rainbow street and did some shopping. This is a nice, historic section of town. Had dinner in a ramen restaurant and were not overjoyed.

Quality of Experience
West Glacial River Family Rafting
West Glacial River Family Rafting
Iceland

I can't say enough about this activity as well. It was the perfect length of time (~ 3 hours) and the rivers cuts through wonderful canyon-like landscape. Mostly class 2 and class 3 rapids. Plan on getting wet, but not getting dunked. Gear was fantastic and the guides are great ... very safety conscious.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
A top notch team that takes care of everyone and everything.
Transport
Cliff Walk from Arnarstapi to Hellnar
Cliff Walk from Arnarstapi to Hellnar
Snæfellsnes Peninsula

Not bad but the hike was a little more demanding than what you would expect in a shoreline hike.

Quality of Experience
Kirkjufellsfoss
Kirkjufellsfoss
Snæfellsnes Peninsula

This was a must see and the photo you see in brochures is the real deal.

Quality of Experience
My daughter wanted to check this out because it was featured on Game of Thrones. Glad we did.
Local specialist: Noga Heyman
Noga
Noga Heyman
Local specialist in Kimkim HQ | Replied on Jun 12, 2025

Thank you so much for the wonderful review, Rick! It was a true pleasure working with you and your family to craft such a memorable adventure. I'm thrilled to hear you enjoyed your itinerary and all the exciting activities along the way. I’d love to help you plan your next journey whenever you're ready to return to the land of fire and ice!

Outdoor roadtrip with less planning
Iceland | May 9 - May 16, 2025

B
Barbara K.
Boston, MA | Reviewed on May 27, 2025
We had a fantastic trip to Iceland with KimKim's help. They were able to take our love of outdoors and different fitness levels into account so we both had a great time. As people who like traveling alone with a car, but wanted a break from all the trip planning they were a godsend with recommendations that matched our interests. Clear planning made for a smooth trip. The scenery was beautiful. We were outside all day almost everyday and then had very comfortable hotels to recover in. We look... Read more

We had a fantastic trip to Iceland with KimKim's help. They were able to take our love of outdoors and different fitness levels into account so we both had a great time. As people who like traveling alone with a car, but wanted a break from all the trip planning they were a godsend with recommendations that matched our interests. Clear planning made for a smooth trip. The scenery was beautiful. We were outside all day almost everyday and then had very comfortable hotels to recover in. We look forward to having them help us with our next trip.

Hotel Reviews
Hótel Kría
Vík

Great centrally located hotel in a small town. Wonderful views and our favorite breakfasts of the trip!

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Hotel Geysir
Bláskógabyggd

Beautiful hotel 5 minutes walk away from the geysirs. Had a delicious dinner.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Dís Cottages
Grundarfjordur

We would give the view 10 stars if we could. It felt like we were the only people in the world. 10 minutes into closest town where the grocery store has an excellent auto coffee machine if you want something more than drip coffee.

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

Central location made the city very walkable.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Activity Reviews
Silfra Snorkeling Adventure
Silfra Snorkeling Adventure
Iceland

The water was very clear. There was a padded insulating layer to put on under the drysuit which was very helpful. A double layer of long underwear also helped. The staff were very knowledgeable and highly skilled.

Quality of Experience
The wet suit was not the most comfortable thing in the world, Wonderful views and had good time in the water.
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Vatnshellir Lava Cave Tour
Vatnshellir Lava Cave Tour
Snæfellsnes Peninsula

Very interesting tour of caves. Very informative. No bathrooms on site, which is clearly marked by sign. Free bathrooms less than 5 minutes away at lighthouse museum. It wasn't a problem, but it was unexpected.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Glacier Walk and Kayak Experience
Glacier Walk and Kayak Experience
Iceland

Both the kayak and glacier hike were very informative and had beautiful scenery.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Thórsmörk Super Jeep Experience
Thórsmörk Super Jeep Experience
Iceland

Great small tour. The valley is beautiful and our guide was very knowledgeable.

Quality of Experience
Food
Packed lunch we purchased was nice. Not a fan of vegan brownies, but this is a personal preference.
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Local specialist: Noga Heyman
Noga
Noga Heyman
Local specialist in Kimkim HQ | Replied on May 27, 2025

Thank you for your thoughtful feedback, Barbara! I’m so happy to hear that you and Adam had an incredible time in Iceland. It sounds like you really made the most of the stunning landscapes and endless daylight. It was an absolute pleasure working with you both, and I'd love the opportunity to help plan another adventure in the future!

Noga was fantastic, support was terrible
Iceland | Mar 23 - Mar 28, 2025

B
Ben A.
Tempe, AZ | Reviewed on Mar 30, 2025
Noga was fantastic, unfortunately the poor support once on the trip means I can’t suggest her or kimkim to others. If there’s something else support had been there I would definitely refer Noga to others. Read more

Noga was fantastic, unfortunately the poor support once on the trip means I can’t suggest her or kimkim to others. If there’s something else support had been there I would definitely refer Noga to others.

Activity Review
Ice Cave Experience Breiðamerkurjökull
Ice Cave Experience Breiðamerkurjökull
Iceland

It was crowded, small, and not very exciting. It was pretty, and the history was interesting, but ultimately not worth the time.

Quality of Experience
Probably nothing within the control of the organizers.
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Guide Was great
Transport
Old truck, broken seatbelts, but ultimately it worked fine
Local specialist: Noga Heyman
Noga
Noga Heyman
Local specialist in Kimkim HQ | Replied on Apr 09, 2025

Thanks for taking the time to leave a review! I loved working with both of you to plan your Iceland adventure. I’m sorry to hear that you were unable to make it to one of your hotels due to weather. Our support team is available for emergencies but if changes are made while you’re in country, we encourage you to do contact the hotels yourself. I hope that your trip overall was amazing and that you were able to enjoy Iceland’s natural wonders. I’m so glad that you enjoyed working with me and I hope you’ll give kimkim another chance in the future.

We had a wonderful trip. Everything was well...
Iceland | Feb 12 - Feb 16, 2025

K
Komal N.
Scotch Plains, NJ | Reviewed on Feb 19, 2025
We had a wonderful trip. Everything was well planned and laid out. Read more

We had a wonderful trip. Everything was well planned and laid out.

Hotel Reviews
Hotel Gullfoss
Tungufell

Charming hotel! Friendly staff l.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Skuggi Hotel Reykjavík by Keahotels
Reykjavík
Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Hotel Katla by Keahotels
Vík
Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Activity Reviews
Katla Ice Cave Experience
Katla Ice Cave Experience
Iceland

It was cold and rainy yet a wonderful experience.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Sólheimajökull  Glacier Walk
Sólheimajökull Glacier Walk
Iceland
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Northern Lights and Stargazing
Northern Lights and Stargazing
Reykjavík
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Local specialist: Noga Heyman
Noga
Noga Heyman
Local specialist in Kimkim HQ | Replied on Feb 19, 2025

Thank you so much for sharing this wonderful review, Komal! I'm so glad you and your daughter had a great time and everything went smoothly. I hope you got some amazing memories from Iceland and I hope we get to work together again in the future! ✨