Erin Wallace has been with Tier One Travel for 27 years, helping clients plan unforgettable adventures around the world. Recently, she had the chance to experience one of these adventures firsthand, traveling to Iceland with her daughter on a G Adventures tour. From exploring dramatic landscapes to immersing themselves in local culture, their trip was filled with incredible moments.
In this blog, Erin shares her firsthand experience, offering insights into what makes a G Adventures tour special. Whether you’re considering a trip to Iceland or another destination, Erin’s expertise and personal travel experience can help you find the perfect itinerary.
Why Travel with G Adventures?
G Adventures specializes in small-group tours that focus on authentic experiences, sustainable tourism, and meaningful connections. Their trips go beyond typical sightseeing, offering locally owned accommodations, off-the-beaten-path exploration, and community-based tourism initiatives.
A leader in responsible travel, G Adventures supports local communities through their Planeterra Foundation, ensuring your journey makes a positive impact. With diverse tour styles, there’s something for every traveler. Whether you seek cultural immersion or an action-packed itinerary, G Adventures offers expert-led, flexible, and unforgettable experiences.
Q&A With Erin about her G Adventures Trip to Iceland
Q: What made you choose a G Adventures tour for your trip to Iceland?
A: We traveled in early April, during Iceland’s off-season for tourism. Many tour companies don’t operate at this time, but G Adventures offered an itinerary that included many of the sights we wanted to see. Plus, their small-group format made for a more personal and immersive experience.
Q: What Iceland G Adventures itinerary did you choose?
A: Iceland Adventure-Northern Lights and Snaefellsnes Peninsula, a 7-day journey starting and ending in Reykjavik.
Q: What were some of the most memorable stops or experiences on the tour?
A: One of the highlights of the trip was experiencing the hospitality of the Icelandic people—they were so welcoming and friendly.
Another unforgettable experience was snorkeling in the Silfra Fissure. Floating between two continental plates in crystal-clear, 2-4°C water with visibility up to 100 meters was absolutely incredible.
Q: What was your favorite part of the trip, and why?
A: Probably the snorkeling as it is so unique, but visiting a lava tube was also incredible.
Q: How physically demanding was the tour? Would you recommend it for travelers of all fitness levels?
A: The tour itself was manageable, but the time of year made it more challenging due to snow and ice. Much of the terrain in Iceland is rocky and uneven, so good mobility and sturdy footwear are important for a comfortable experience.
Q: Did you feel there was enough free time to explore on your own?
A: There is a decent amount of free time. We added an extra two days in Reykjavik to do some of our own exploring and a food tour!
Q: Were there any hidden gems or lesser-known spots included in the itinerary?
A: One hidden gem was the Secret Lagoon Hot Springs, a quieter and more natural alternative to Iceland’s more famous geothermal pools.
Another special experience was staying at a countryside guesthouse, giving us the perfect opportunity to see the Northern Lights and spend time with Icelandic horses in a peaceful, scenic setting.
Q: Were accommodations during the tour comfortable? Any standout stays?
A: They are fairly basic but clean. The guesthouse was fun. The lady who runs it makes a delicious breakfast with homemade Icelandic pancakes and jams. The two evenings we were there, our Chief Experience Officer had planned and bought groceries. Everyone took a job and pitched in to help. It was a nice way to get to know everyone.
Q: How did the transportation work during the trip? Was it convenient and well-organized?
A: Yes, there are only a maximum of 16 people on this tour, so it was a small mini bus. The tour uses WhatsApp, so everyone can keep in touch and share photos.
Q: Were meals included? If so, how was the food, and did you try any traditional Icelandic dishes?
A: Breakfast is included every morning, and the two evening meals at the guest house are included. As part of the tour, we visited Friðheimar, a unique tomato farm and restaurant, where we enjoyed a delicious lunch. It was the best tomato soup I have ever had!
We also did a food tour on our own ahead of joining the G Adventures tour. We tried Icelandic lamb, Arctic Char, Icelandic Cod and the famous Icelandic hot dog. We loved the rye bread, rye bread ice cream and my favourite, Icelandic licorice.
Q: What time of year did you visit, and how did that influence the experience?
A: We went in early April, which was around 7C, but the wind was very cold and strong. I would like to travel again and think June would be a great month to go.
Q: Are there any must-try experiences in Iceland that you’d recommend?
A: Exploring the Lava tube, snorkeling in the fissure, riding Icelandic horses, relaxing in hot springs, watching a geyser and walking on a glacier.
Q: Would you recommend this G Adventures tour to others? Who do you think it’s best suited for?
A: Yes, it is a great tour that includes most of the highlights. I would say most people who are fairly mobile can do this tour. I have since sold it to a friend of mine who went last fall, and she was 74 years old at the time of travel!
Q: How did the tour deepen your appreciation for Iceland as a destination?
A: It is a beautiful country with friendly, proud people, and it is very safe.
Q: What’s one piece of advice you’d give to someone booking a tour with G Adventures?
A: Get ready to have an amazing time and really experience the destination!
Q: What’s the one thing you’ll always remember about your trip to Iceland?
A: Sharing all of these incredible experiences with my teenage daughter.
Erin’s experience in Iceland with G Adventures highlights breathtaking landscapes and meaningful cultural experiences. This tour offered a perfect mix of exploration and connection; G Adventures provides an unforgettable way to experience it all. If Erin’s journey has inspired you to start planning your own adventure, she’s here to help. Get in touch today, and let’s make your travel dreams a reality!
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