Iceland
8 days, 6 races, and countless adventures
OVERVIEW
MAP & ITINERARY
WHAT TO EXPECT
pLAN YOUR TRAVEL
BOOK YOUR TRIP
FAQ
Discover the Land
of Ice and Fire
Come as you are — solo, with a partner, or a friend. Our all-inclusive running adventures will let you touch, taste, and behold the Land of Fire and Ice.
Daily trail runs through volcanic fields and along sea cliffs challenge your inner explorer to dig deep and use all the senses to take it in.
With no planning on your end, the morning trail runs roll into afternoons of high adventure and laid-back cultural excursions. Discover what we have in store for you in Iceland.
TRIP DETAILS:
- Guided trail runs and hikes (7-12K each)
- Expert local guides
- Hotels, meals, and local transport included!
- Arrival/Departure: Reykjavík, Iceland
- 8 days / 7 nights
- Daily afternoon activities
TRIP HIGHLIGHTS:
"It challenged and changed me
in the best possible way."
Meet Your Host Country: Iceland
Iceland is a small island nation shaped by its rugged and unpredictable arctic environment. It's nicknamed the Land of Fire and Ice for good reason — these two forces of nature are the culprits behind Iceland's unique landscape.
Eleven percent of its land mass is covered by ice, but this tiny island nation also boasts an abundance of volcanoes, hot springs, fjords, glaciers, and iconic black sand beaches.
Home to some famous personalities, Iceland is credited as the birthplace of Norse explorer, Leif Erikson, who is thought to be the first European to set foot on North America.
CAPITAL
Reykjavík
LANGUAGE
Icelandic & English
CURRENCY
Krona
WEATHER
57° / 48° in June.
Cool and rainy.
LANDSCAPE
Glaciers, volcanoes, and hot springs!
FAMOUS PEOPLE
Leif Erikson and Björk!
The Global Adventures Experience
The Best Dang Team On The Planet
Tireless travel directors, local guides, trail runners, photography gurus, and staff medics...we're all here to make your experience one for the ages.
Ask Us Any Question
Our event directors love to talk all things 'Global Adventures'. From travel advice to making sure a trip meets your needs, there is no question too big or too small!
All of The Fun, None of The Work
We've done the hard parts for you. Once you book your trip, our expert team handles all the details. From mapping out scenic runs to finding the comfiest beds and local grub.
Plus, we take care of that boring stuff like local transportation and even laundry.
All that's left is to book your flight and call in sick from work ;)
Who Goes On A Global Adventure?
Solo Travelers
connect with your curiosity
You can arrive solo, but you're never alone. Surrounded by like-minded travelers, you just may find your new travel companion — and a new favorite hobby to boot!
Dating + Daring
Entertain novelty
You may be partners, but that doesn't mean you want the "typical" romantic getaway. You two are more of the high-adventure type.
Hop on in!
Best Buds
LET MOMENTS BECOME MEMORIES
When's the last time your friends have had an excuse to get away? If smiling and laughing your butts off while exploring beautiful destinations isn't a good enough reason to get together, we don't know what is!
Turning a New Leaf
embolden your heart
Chin up and feet forward! You're looking for change or at least a week to turn your back on whatever you left behind. Escape, refresh, and leave with a new perspective.
Iceland Itinerary
Scroll to explore!
Adventure Overview
- Day 1: Welcome
- Day 2: Burfell Volcano
- Day 3: Golden Circle
- Day 4: Porsmork
- Day 5: Skogafoss & Reynisjara
- Day 6: Vik Sea Cliff
- Day 7: Blue Lagoon
- Day 8: Departure
Saturday (Day 1): Welcome to Reykjavik
You’ll arrive in Reykjavik by Saturday afternoon and either take a taxi or shuttle via Flybus.com to the hotel in Reykjavik for the first night.
We’ll check you in that evening and get everyone oriented for what to expect throughout the week. This is also your first chance to meet your fellow adventurers! Dinner and drinks are included the first night as we kick off a grand week.
- Hotel Reykjavik Natura
- Keflavík Airport (KEF)
- Arrive in Reykjavik, Iceland
Planning your arrival? Check out the Plan Your Travel section for more info!
Sunday (Day 2): Burfell Volcano
We’ll wake up, enjoy breakfast and then head straight to our first run of the week, which will give you a taste of what Iceland offers. Our run today takes you through a massive lava flow from the Burfell Volcano, culminating with a run around the rim of this (now dormant!) volcano.
After our run and lunch, it's time to visit the puffins! You'll get to meet the most common, and perhaps most majestic, bird in Iceland. We'll take the rest of the afternoon to explore the city of Reykjavik. Go visit the Hallgrimskirkja cathedral, take a stroll through the shops along Laugavegur, and enjoy the friendly vibe of this European capital.
- Volcano fields, puffin tour, explore Reykjavik
- Hotel Reykjavik Natura
- Reykjavik, Iceland
Monday (Day 3): Golden Circle
You've seen hot springs before, but have you ever soaked in an entire hot river?
Our second full day in Iceland explodes with excitement — literally! After breakfast, we start our run which is a shorter trot up to the hot river in the Reykjadalur Valley.
After our soak, we’ll head back to the bus to continue our tour of the Golden Circle which includes Gullfoss Waterfall, Geysir (the original geyser), and Þingvellir National Park, where you'll hike to the meeting place of the North American and Eurasian continents!
- Hot springs, Golden Circle tour
- Hotel Stracta
- Hella, Iceland
Tuesday (Day 4): Þórsmörk Volcano Huts
Today's course is more of a hike as we head out to see what may be the most spectacular view of the week!
Take your time and use your senses to memorize the feeling of the mountains, glaciers, and braided rivers unfolding before you.
After our hike, we'll spend the afternoon enjoying the lodge to ourselves — relaxing in the sauna, playing Icelandic lawn games, or even sneaking a nap.
- Afternoon relaxation
- Volcano Huts
- Þórsmörk, Iceland
Wednesday (Day 5): Skogafoss & Reynisfjara Beach
After a breakfast in the lodge, we’ll do one last run in Þórsmörk where you will be able to see more views of this incredible valley. We’ll then board the 4x4 buses and head back through the rivers, across the dirt roads, and take you back to the south coast, where we’ll continue on to the beautiful little costal town of Vik. On our way into town we’ll stop and visit the thundering Skogafoss Waterfall, where you can get as close and as wet as you like!
We will then take you to see one of the most unique beaches you have ever seen- Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach. Here the sand is made up of ground up lava and the cliffs are perfect octagonal columns of basalt. There are black sea stacks out in the ocean and a perfect cave where you can look out at the water.
- Waterfall visit, Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach
- Hotel Kria
- Vik, Iceland
Thursday (Day 6): Vik Sea Cliff
We’re getting closer to the end of the week and we’ve saved the best sea views for last. Today, we’ll run from the town of Vik, to the towering sea cliffs above the ocean, where we will finish our run and spend some time enjoying the views. You may want to spend all day there, but eventually we’ll need to get back down because we have more adventuring to do!
After lunch, we'll take you to the Sólheimajökull Glacier where we have guides ready to strap on some crampons, give you an ice axe, and take you hiking on this amazing glacier. Our guides are super knowledgeable and safety-conscious and will teach you all about glaciers as you explore.
- Sólheimajökull Glacier Tour
- Hotel Kria
- Vik, Iceland
Friday (Day 7): Blue Lagoon Geothermal Spa
Our last day and final run of the trip! After leaving Vik in the morning, we’ll drive up to Keflavik for lunch, followed by an afternoon spent at the SkyLagoon. Before you go into the healing blue waters of the spa, we get to run around the lagoon. Our course takes you across chunky lava fields, through bright blue ponds, and of course, through more 100-year-old Icelandic moss than you’ve ever seen (but don’t touch it!).
After finishing our last run, we’ll take you to the spa, where you’ll have a few hours to relax and enjoy the Blue Lagoon in all its glory. Give yourself a complimentary silica facial. Have a few drinks at the swim-up bar. Whatever you do, just soak in this last incredible experience at the end of your week in Iceland. After the Blue Lagoon, we’ll end our week with dinner and closing ceremonies.
- Volcano fields, lagoon geothermal spa
- Hotel Reykjavik Natura
- Reykjavik, Iceland
Saturday (Day 8): Depart from Reykjavik
All good things must come to an end. You’re free to move on to your next adventure anytime on Saturday, whether that’s a flight back home or carrying on into Europe for more travel. We'll help coordinate shuttles back to Keflavík Airport (KEF).
Please note that this is an example of activities and quality stays you will enjoy with us. Changes may occur based on weather, logistics, and new opportunities. We will always search for comparable alternatives when a change is made.
What to Expect from Your Global Adventure
Quick Planning Guide
- Keep an eye out for emails from us the month before your trip - we'll send packing info, weather updates, and a group WhatsApp chat to get acquainted!
- Iceland is unpredictable! Pack layers, rain gear, and lots of socks.
- Bring some krona for souvenirs and snacks.
- Avg. 40-75 people per trip
Before You Arrive
What to Expect From Us
After registration, you'll receive a welcome email with information to get ready for your Global Adventure. After this initial email, you can expect to hear from us regularly starting about 3 months before with further trip details, a packing list, and more.
Keep an eye on your mailbox - we'll also send you special trip swag one month before your trip!
Your Pre-Trip Homework
boOK YOUR FLIGHT
Flights or other transportation to our host country are not included in the trip cost. You'll want to book these well in advance to get the best prices.
GET COVERED
We recommend having travel insurance to keep you protected while you're out enjoying each day. Many companies offer flexible coverage for your trip to suit your needs.
While we no longer require participants to be vaccinated, we encourage you to understand the travel requirements of each country you will visit or pass through on a layover.
COMPLETE YOUR TRAVELER PROFILE
Once registered, you'll have a traveler profile with us in RunSignup. Leading up to the trip, we will ask you to complete this profile with information about your flights, dietary needs, etc. This information is private to our event directors and is used to coordinate nitty-gritty trip logistics.
Getting excited for your trip? Want to chat with other Global Adventures runners?
Join our community of travelers on Facebook!
Daily Life on a Global Adventure
MORNING Run (~7:00 am)
Ok, we know you're on vacation, but starting the day early means we get to show you so much more. You didn't think we'd be sleeping on this trip...right?
We'll have breakfast at the hotel before departing for a 7-12K trail run. Pack your day bag (included as trip swag!) with a fresh set of clothes and an activity for the journey.
After the race we'll regroup to shower (when available) and refuel with lunch.
AFTERNOON activity (~11:00 AM)
After our run, each day brings something new! We'll have lunch and then head out for a range of activities depending on your Global Adventure.
Active Adrenaline - These trips keep your heart racing with more physical activities like glacier treks and more.
Culture Kick - These trips focus on giving you a backstage pass to each country's culture. We'll tour historical & natural sights, learn traditional skills, and taste the local fare.
Expect to have a few hours of free time each afternoon to explore the towns we visit and take in the grandeur of the landscape. Our goal is to have enough adventure to fill your days without feeling rushed from location to location.
Check out your Iceland Global Adventure itinerary for more details.
Evening wind down (6-8:00 PM)
It's time to wind down and enjoy the night! We'll have dinner together as a group at a local restaurant or at the hotel. Dinners typically include set menu options and wine or beer.
For two of the evenings you will be free to explore and find dinner on your own (not included in trip cost). Ask our local team for recommendations...or grab some food at the hotel, turn your phone on silent, and enjoy hotel amenities to re-coop from an active day. The night is yours!
We got you! Expect a team text before bed with details on tomorrow's race, weather conditions, and packing suggestions.
Trail Runs and Hikes
Our trail runs will take you into the countryside, where you'll feel like part of the iconic landscapes that drew us here. We'll have crew on course to mind you, markings to guide you, and finish line food to revive you.
You can take these runs at your own pace - or go for gold! At the end of the week everyone earns a Global Adventures finisher medal, plus special awards for our fastest racers.
run difficulty & training
In Iceland, each day we’ll be running/hiking between 4-19km (2.5-12mi). Most of these runs will have a decent amount of elevation gain. Keep in mind - weather in Iceland can be unpredictably wet. It is not uncommon for us to walk the uphill portions and run when the terrain is flat or downhill. If you want to train, we recommend working up to back-to-back trail runs with varied elevation gain.
We ask runners to maintain at least a 20-minute per mile pace on these trail runs.
iceland trail Runs
Exact trails, distances, and the order we run them may vary from trip to trip depending on weather and trail conditions.
Burfell (9.3K)
Point-to-point
Elevation Gain: 833 feet
Moderate
Hot Springs (10.8K)
Point-to-point
Elevation Gain: 1,446 feet
Moderate
Þórsmörk (18.8K)
Point-to-point
Elevation Gain: 2,365 feet
Moderate - we'll hike mostly!
Rangárþing (4.4K)
Loop
Elevation Gain: 518 feet
Easy
Vik Sea Cliff (13K)
Out-and-back
Elevation Gain: 1,276 feet
Moderate
Blue Lagoon (8.2K)
Loop
Elevation Gain: 699 feet
Moderate
AllTrails Note: AllTrails lists their run info using kilometers and meters, which vary significantly from miles and feet, respectively. Please keep this in mind!
Plan Your Travel
Now that you're as excited as we are, let's get down to the gritty details of your adventure.
Travel Details
Arrival (first day):
- Please plan to arrive by the afternoon on the first day of the trip.
- Keflavík Airport (KEF), Iceland
- Hotel access: Book a shuttle from the airport to our starting hotel via Flybus.com!
- Check in at Hilton Reykjavik Natura
Depart (last day):
- We will already be in Reykjavik on the last day of the trip. You may depart anytime.
- Keflavík Airport (KEF), Iceland
- Check out of Hilton Reykjavik Natura
Packing & Prep
Coverage: You may want to consider travel insurance for such an epic adventure! Companies like Safety Wing offer flexible coverage for your trip.
Travel Restrictions: Vacation Races does not require a COVID-19 vaccine to attend our trips. Please check with the local authority of your destination country to see the latest travel recommendations.
Kayak.com also maintains a useful tool for checking international travel restrictions.
Packing List: These are fast-paced adventures. We'll send you a packing list before the trip to help you feel ready to tackle...well, just about anything!
Training: Adventurers of various skill levels can enjoy our running adventures. If you want to train, we recommend working up to back-to-back trail runs with varied elevation gain.
Check out the Iceland trail runs for more info on what to expect!
Ask Us Any Question
Our event directors love to talk all things 'Global Adventures'. From travel advice to making sure a trip meets your needs, there is no question too big or too small!
Upcoming Trip Dates
2024 Dates
June 8-15, 2024
8 Days | 7 Nights
$4,200
per guest
Based on double-occupancy rooms. Flights not included.
Register now with just a $500 deposit
August 31 - September 7, 2024
8 Days | 7 Nights
$4,500
per guest
Based on double-occupancy rooms. Flights not included.
Register now with just a $500 deposit
2025 Dates
June 21-28, 2025
8 Days | 7 Nights
$4,950
per guest
Based on double-occupancy rooms. Flights not included.
Register now with just a $500 deposit
September 6-13, 2025
8 Days | 7 Nights
Pricing TBD
Based on double-occupancy rooms. Flights not included.
Register now with just a $500 deposit
Included in all Global Adventures
- Guided trail runs or hikes (7-12K each)
- Expert team of staff, guides, and a medic
- Daily activities and outings
- Hotels and lodging
- Most meals (and drinks!)
- Local transport
- Travel swag and race medals
Frequently Asked Questions
Registration
Will I need a passport or visa?
If our destination country is different from your country of residence, yes, you will need a valid passport. Though every country is different, a good rule to follow is that your passport should not expire within 6 months of your planned travel. It is your responsibility to verify that your passport meets our destination country's criteria.
Visa requirements vary by country and by nationality. Please reference the state department website of the destination country to determine if a visa is needed. Ultimately, you are responsible for securing all necessary visas and documentation required by the destination country.
Will I need a COVID-19 vaccine?
While we will no longer require the vaccine, we strongly encourage everyone traveling with us to make sure you're aware of the Covid-19 travel restrictions of each country you will visit or pass through on a layover. Please visit the State Department website of your destination country to up-to-date travel information.
While on your trip, our staff medic will be able to help you locate and schedule Covid testing as needed. We will also have rapid tests and masks on hand.
We ask all our adventurers to respect each others boundaries and preferences. If you remain unsure of the risks, we encourage you to wait to take a Global Adventures trip until you feel confident joining us!
How much does a Global Adventures trip cost?
All Global Adventures trips include the cost of daily hotels, included group activities and entrance fees, domestic transportation in the host country, and most food and drinks.
The cost of your flight to and from the host country is not included to allow participants to choose the travel options that are right for them.
Looking for the exact cost of this trip? Head to the Book Your Trip tab!
Are there discounts available?
We do not currently offer any discounts for Global Adventures trips.
Can I receive a refund for trip activities that I don't want to participate in?
No. We cannot offer partial refunds for unattended components of the trip. Our travel packages are thoughtfully curated, taking into consideration various factors to ensure a seamless and enjoyable experience for all participants. This includes pre-booking accommodations, activities, meals, transportation and other components well in advance.
How can I complete my registration payment?
- Login to runsignup.
- Select "Manage Registration" next to the race
- Select "Add Ons" at the top of the page
- Update the selection for "Do you want to pay the remaining balance today?"
- Select "Continue" and complete payment.
How can I update my address in Runsignup?
- Go to your Profile
- See Upcoming Races
- Click Manage Registration next to the registration that you are editing
- Click the Shipping tab.
Trip Planning
Who goes on Global Adventure trips?
From solo travelers to groups, teens to the silver-haired, seasoned thrill-seekers to those ready to step out of their comfort zone for the first time - these trips offer an experience for everyone. Our past adventurers come from all walks of life but all share a love of life and a willingness to challenge themselves.
Seriously. Don't be afraid to come alone. You are sure to leave with new friends, new confidence, and approximately 800 photos of moments that took your breath away!
How much free time will we have?
Our days start between 6:30-7:00 am for breakfast before we head out run the trails. Expect to have a few hours of free time each afternoon to explore the towns we visit and take in the grandeur of the landscape. Our goal is to have enough adventure to fill your days without feeling rushed from location to location.
In addition, all Global Adventures will have 2 free evenings- you'll be able to walk around town and maybe stop by that cute pub you passed earlier in the day for dinner!
Can you accommodate dietary restrictions?
We can accommodate most dietary restrictions with some advance notice. Please fill out your traveler information in Run Signup after you register so that we can make plans successfully.
If you have a particularly specific or complex dietary requirement, please reach out to us. While we cannot guarantee full accommodations, we'll always try our best!
Exceptions:
Japan - in Japan, restrictions are harder to accommodate and are not culturally normal. As such, most restaurants struggle to accommodate restrictions beyond vegetarian, pescatarian, or dairy-free diets. If you have a restriction outside of these three diets, please book a 15-minute call here.
What are the hotels like?
We typically have 3-star lodging booked for you. Rooms will be comfortable, clean, and safe, but no frills; a place that you would feel ok relaxing in!
On some adventures, we have alternative lodging like glamping tents. Check your itinerary and the photo gallery for pictures and additional information.
Are there any age restrictions?
These trips are mainly enjoyed by adults, and as long as you are comfortable with the runs, activities, and group setting, we'll be glad to have you! For parents/guardians who may want to bring their children who also like to run, we recommend children be 14 years or older.
For activity-specific restrictions, read below:
Patagonia Trips: The glacier hike is restricted to ages 64 and under. Individuals 65 and older are not permitted to participate, but we will try to find an alternate activity for them.
Ireland Trips: The whiskey tasting event is 21+
Will I receive swag items before my trip?
We ship all travelers a swag package about 3 weeks before the event. We are only able ot ship within the US at this time. You can update your preferred shipping address by following these steps in your RunSignup account:
1. Log into your RunSignup account
2. Under Upcoming Events, click Manage Registration for this event
3. Click the Shipping tab and update your shipping address
How much cash should I bring on my trip?
We recommend planning to spend $100 - 300 USD during your trip, exchanged to the local currency.
The truth is each destination is different regarding exchange rates and convenience of exchanging currencies. Once you sign up for a trip, the GA team will give recommendations on the best and most convenient way to exchange money.
Will we have phone service during the trip?
We recommend that you get an international phone plan in your home country before traveling. Many U.S. phone providers will offer an international plan that can be purchased online via your account.
If you arrive to the destination country with extra time, you may also choose to purchase a local SIM card or E-Sim. Airports usually have stores that can help you purchase and set up these SIM cards.
What kind of clothing should I wear after the runs?
After running we will usually be doing activities, we recommend always putting comfort first! Casual, active clothes for activities and tours, plus comfortable shoes to rest your feet. We also recommend one nice outfit for our celebration dinner or other evenings out.
Remember to pack light, we usually move a lot and carrying your bag to the buses might be a challenge if it is too heavy! 3 months out from the trip, you will receive a packing list to use as a reference!
What will the weather be like?
Check the weather here by typing in the places we go. Then 10 days before the trip, do it again so you can have more comfort in knowing what to expect and how to pack.
The Races & Activities
How difficult are the runs?
Global Adventures are meant to challenge you. That being said, we welcome runners of various levels and will support you towards the finish line.
Each day we’ll be running/hiking between 7-12K (approx. 3-6 miles). Most of these runs will have a decent amount of elevation gain. It is not uncommon for us to walk the uphill portions and run when the terrain is flat or downhill.
We plan for runners to maintain at least a 20-minute per mile trail pace on these runs. If we believe this pace becomes too difficult for a runner, we may ask them to sit out a run or offer a shorter course for them.
Do I have to run every day?
This is your vacation- you should do what you want!
If you want to take a break for a day or two, then by all means do it. Our goal is to make sure you have the best possible experience on the trails, whatever that means for you.
Are there aid stations?
There are no aid stations in these trail runs.
Most adventurers choose to wear a hydration backpack or carry a water bottle in hand (along with a few gels or other snacks as needed).
You are required to bring your own hydration system. Our team loves the hydration options developed by Nathan Sports. Give them a look!
Will I get to shower after the runs?
With so much to see and do, most the days we won't be able to shower between your run and heading to lunch or an activity. We recommend packing body wipes and a change of clothes in your day bag each morning. There are typically bathrooms where you can freshen up and sometimes a lake or ocean to jump into!
Remember, a couple of weeks before traveling you will be receiving a day bag from us - among other cool and useful swag! You can use this day bag to carry your running clothes for clean ones and stay fresh during the day.
Will we run into animals on the trails?
If you are lucky, you’ll get to see some local wildlife (Moose, goats, whale, oh my!) We will be visiting wild places and encounters with animals are always a possibility. However, we will be on well traveled trails which tend to keep the animals away.
All Global Adventures trips partner with expert guides from the area to provide tips on staying safe on the trails. Mosquitos will vary greatly with the climate and even changes year-to-year. We recommend packing mosquito repellent.
Can I bring someone who doesn't run?
If you want to bring a partner to the event that doesn’t want to participate in the runs, that’s totally fine. They'll still get to join in the daily activities and explore the destination - just not on the trails. They can join us as a fast hiker (20 minutes per mile) if they choose!
Just sign up for the event as a regular participant, but let us know in the registration notes that your partner is not running.
What other activities will we be doing?
Each Global Adventure is different - expect a range of activities like historical tours, boat cruises, hands-on workshops, and more!
For activities specific to this trip, check out the itinerary. You'll also receive a detailed daily itinerary a few weeks before your arrival date.
Still getting passport ready? Join our Iceland VIP email list.
We'll send you updates about new trips to Iceland and more to keep you on track!
Still got questions? Our team loves to talk to new adventurers! Schedule a chat with us.
