Winter Iceland - Orcas, Eagles and Auroras

Travellers on our popular summer trips to Iceland often ask the question: 'What's it like here in winter? Well, there's a chance to find out on this short break to a truly spectacular part of the world. Our base is on the Snæfellsnes peninsula in west Iceland and we'll explore the incredible winter landscapes of this area. The region's wildlife complements the rugged scenery and we have a very good chance of finding Orcas, both from the land and on a boat trip, White-tailed Eagles patrolling the coastline, Gyrfalcons looking for their Ptarmigan prey and Harlequin Ducks at home in the rough seas. We'll also get to see both Iceland and Glaucous Gulls, Snow Buntings and, wherever we travel, there's a chance of encountering Arctic Fox.

At this time of year clear nights frequently let us see some simply awe-inspiring displays of the northern lights -- a magical atmospheric phenomenon and high on the wish list for many of our travellers. We'll also have some great opportunities to enjoy the amazing volcanic geology of Iceland by visiting lava fields and craters and learn about the tectonic forces which shaped, and are still shaping, this wonderful landscape.

The tour is led by Andy Jones, a highly experienced naturalist and guide in Iceland who has led trips for Heatherlea for many years.

Enjoy your complimentary pre-flight overnight hotel before your holiday begins. Full details from our office! Read more about our Pre-flight Service here!

Day 1: Thurs 27 February - Arrival in Iceland
After relaxing in our complimentary VIP Airport Lounge, we fly to Keflavík airport and start our three hour journey to Snæfellsnes. Have your binoculars handy as we will make some birdwatching stops on the way and will no doubt encounter our first Glaucous and Iceland Gulls as we travel. We look for White-tailed Eagles not far from where we stay and, wherever we travel, there's a chance of encountering an Arctic Fox. Dinner is at the hotel and if conditions allow we'll hope for a display of the northern lights during the night.

Day 2: Fri 28 February - Birds and Cetaceans boat trip 
We plan on travelling to the southern and western parts of Snæfellsnes today. Orcas are often seen close inshore at this time of year and we will search the coastline and see what we can find. The landscape is dominated by the bulk of the ice-covered volcano of Snæfellsjökull and in the lava fields we’ve a good chance of finding Ptarmigan and perhaps Gyrfalcon, too. The incredible landscape provides a wonderful backdrop for the wildlife and we hope for White-tailed Eagles patrolling the shore. We plan to take a boat trip and will be looking for Orcas and White-beaked Dolphins at close range. After dinner we’ll again be ready for an aurora.

Day 3: Sat 1 March - North and East Snæfellsnes
It’s northern and eastern Snæfellsnes today. On the lookout for Orca offshore this time from land, we spend time in areas frequented by White-tailed Eagle, Ptarmigan and Gyrfalcon. We will visit several harbours and develop our gull identification skills as we sort out Glaucous and Iceland Gulls with perhaps a chance of Ivory Gull, too. Harlequin Duck spend their winters on the coast, and we expect to find some surfing in the waves offshore and there's always a chance of a King Eider amongst the large flocks of Common Eider as well. The geology of Iceland is not forgotten, and we’ll explore more lava fields and craters as we learn more about the volcanoes that shaped Iceland. Again, there’s a possibility of seeing the northern lights in the evening.

Day 4: Sun 2 March - Final birding and departure 
We head south this morning on our return journey to Keflavík. We make several birding stops on the way and hope to encounter some of the large flocks of Snow Bunting which congregate at this time of year with sometimes an overwintering Merlin in pursuit. We’ll make a quick visit to Iceland’s capital city, Reykjavík. On our way to the airport we'll see some evidence of the recent eruptions on the Reykjanes Peninsula. Flights leave in the middle of the afternoon bringing this splendid short break to a close.

More Holiday Information:

Accommodation is in a comfortable hotel or guest house with all rooms en suite,
Food Breakfast is surprisingly good given the limited availability of local produce. Cereals, Cold meats and cheese are usually offered, with ample bread and preserves. Fruit juice and tea or coffee are also usually available. Evening meals are generally local dishes, which are good but often quite simple. Chicken, fish and very lean lamb are common. Picnic lunches are included.
Walking is not strenuous. Leisurely walking, very occasionally over moderately rough terrain, is the only physical requirement.
Weather We hope for beautiful, cold, clear arctic conditions, but be prepared for wind, snow, sleet or rain! We will be spending time on windswept coasts; it is therefore vital to have suitable clothing and equipment. The temperature can change quickly, so layered clothing is recommended.
Insects biting insects are not expected.
Group size is restricted to 12 clients maximum.
Flights are by scheduled airline, from London. We may be able to offer flight arrangements from another airport and/or or quote without flights so you can make your own arrangements. If you wish to add an extension either before or after your holiday, please contact us and we will be happy to arrange this for you.

Your Leader:

Andy Jones is well-known to many Heatherlea clients as 'The Iceland Naturalist'. Based in Iceland for more than 20 years, he has led numerous wildlife holidays and educational field trips here and is a very experienced wildlife guide. Previously Andy was a warden on Skomer Island, a ranger with the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park, the RSPB's senior investigations officer and a Wildlife Trust director. He studied geology and is an enthusiastic field naturalist.

What's included in your holiday price:

• scheduled return flights between London and Keflavik, airport taxes,
• ground transportation as outlined including all transportation in Iceland in winterized 4x4 vehicle,
• accommodation and all meals, including breakfast, lunch and dinner.
• any scheduled boat trips.
• the services of your leader.
• The Heatherlea Pre-Flight Service offers everything you need at the airport, including hotels, car parking, airport lounges, regional flights, and upgrades. Let Heatherlea take the strain! Pre-flight airport hotel and lounge included free of charge subject to terms and conditions.

What's not included in your holiday price:

• personal insurance, drinks and other personal expenses, optional tips, and any other costs not specified as 'included'.