5
Forged by Fire & Ice: Iceland Adventure
Sep 11 - 17, 2026
Step Into Iceland’s Wild Beauty
Hey adventurer—ready for something that’s equal parts epic and unforgettable? 🌍💪
Over six days, we’re diving headfirst into Iceland’s most jaw-dropping landscapes: glaciers that glisten under September skies, canyons so green and wild they look straight out of a fairytale, volcanoes that remind you how small we really are, and waterfalls that shake the ground beneath your feet. We’ll hike, climb, laugh, and soak in hot pools like we own the place.
And, if luck is on our side, we might even catch the magical Northern Lights dancing across the sky—a breathtaking, bucket-list moment to cap off the adventure.
But here’s the thing—this trip isn’t just about chasing epic views (though, trust me, you’ll get plenty). It’s about saying yes to connection. To standing shoulder-to-shoulder with strong women who are just as ready for adventure as you are. To swapping stories, pushing each other up the trail, and sharing that “holy crap, we did this” feeling when the day’s hike is done.
This isn’t your average girls’ trip. It’s not fluffy, it’s not surface level—it’s the kind of experience that leaves you stronger, more alive, and with friendships you’ll keep long after the plane ride home.
This is your year to say yes. So, are you in?
Itinerary
Fri, Sep 11: Depart Home...
Sat, Sep 12: Arrive Reykjavik
Sun, Sep 13: Glacier Hike
Mon, Sep 14: Jökulsárlón Glacier LagoonJökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon
Tue, Sep 15: Mt. Laki
Wed, Sep 16: Brennisteinsalda Volcano
Thu, Sep 17: Homeward Bound
Full Itinerary
✅ Trip Requirements
Before you pack your bags for Iceland, here’s what you need to know:
- Fitness Level: You should feel comfortable hiking 6km (about 3–4 miles) on uneven terrain. No mountaineering experience required-just a willingness to move and explore.
- Gear You’ll Need:
- Warm outdoor clothing
- Waterproof jacket & pants
- Headwear & gloves
- Good hiking boots (required-sneakers won’t cut it). Rental boots available for ISK 1000 (~$8USD) during the glacier hike if needed.
- Eligibility: Women only, 18+.
- Group Size: Intentionally small, with a maximum of 16 travelers for a connected experience.
- Travel Documents:
- A valid passport (must be good for at least 6 months after arrival).
- No visa required for U.S. citizens.
- ETIAS approval may be required beginning in October 2026-stay tuned for updates.
- Don’t have a passport yet? No problem! You can still commit to the trip. Passports are not required until May 15, 2026, giving you plenty of time to apply or renew.
- Health & Safety: No vaccines required, but always consult your doctor about your personal travel health needs.
- Rooming: Rooms will be shared, but a My Own Room option may be available if you prefer your own space.
💡 Is This Trip Right for You?
This trip is for you if you’re:
- Ready to lace up your boots and hit the trail—even if it’s muddy, windy, or a little messy.
- Excited about glaciers, volcanoes, and landscapes that look like they belong on another planet.
- Open to making real connections, sharing space, and swapping stories with an incredible group of women.
- The type who thrives on adventure and can laugh when things don’t go perfectly as planned.
This trip is not for you if you:
- Need to be perfectly comfortable 24/7 (spoiler: Iceland weather doesn’t care about your comfort).
- Can’t go with the flow when travel throws a curveball.
- Aren’t interested in physical activity or hiking outdoors.
- Want a luxury trip with spa robes, hair dryers, and cocktail service.
- Struggle with being open-minded in new cultures and group settings.
🌍 Trip Highlights
- Chase Waterfalls: Hike through Múlagljúfur Canyon and stand in awe beneath thundering falls.
- Glacier Adventure: Strap on your boots and trek across Europe’s largest glacier in Skaftafell.
- Volcano Vibes: Explore the colorful slopes of Brennisteinsalda and reward yourself with a soak in a natural hot pool.
- Black Sand Beaches: Walk the dramatic coastline where crashing waves meet stark volcanic shores.
- Fjord Exploration: Travel through Iceland’s wild and untamed fjords, where every turn looks like a movie scene.
- Epic Views, Epic Connection: Share the trail, laughter, and once-in-a-lifetime moments with a crew of strong, adventurous women.
- Off-the-Beaten Path: Go beyond the typical tourist stops and dive into Iceland’s raw, rugged beauty.

🥾 The Hikes - What to Expect
This trip is for women who are ready to move - to hike, climb, and earn those jaw-dropping views. The physical rating is 4 out of 5 – demanding, which means you don’t have to be an elite athlete, but you do need to be up for a challenge. Expect longer days on your feet, some steep climbs, and terrain that keeps things interesting.
Think of it like training for a 10K - completely doable for most, but it’s going to push you in all the best ways.
We’ll all be on the same trails, but we won’t all move at the same pace - and that’s okay. Some will lead the pack, others will take their time and stop for every photo (or breath - no judgment). The guides are pros at keeping everyone safe and supported, no matter where you fall in the lineup.
What matters most is your attitude. Come prepared to challenge yourself, listen to your body, and keep showing up even when it’s hard. You don’t need to be the fastest - you just need to be willing.
If you’re unsure about the hiking level or how to prep, reach out. I’ll happily walk you through it so you know exactly what to expect.
Day 1 - Waterfall Wonders
Seljalandsfoss Waterfall
🥾 1 mi (1.6km) | ⏱️ 45 min | 📍~200 ft | ⛰️ 150 ft gain | 💪 1/5
Walk behind a waterfall — short, misty, and magical.Skógafoss Waterfall
🥾 3.7-4.3mi (6–7 km) | ⏱️ 2 hrs | 📍~570 ft | ⛰️ 370 ft gain | 💪 2/5
Climb beside the falls, then follow the river past dozens more cascades.----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Day 2 – Ice & Adventure
Skaftafell Glacier Hike
🥾 2.5mi (4 km) | ⏱️ 3 hrs | 📍~650 ft | ⛰️ 400 ft gain | 💪 3/5
Guided glacier walk - crampons and pure exhilaration.Skaftafell National Park (Svartifoss)
🥾 4.3-5mi (7–8 km) | ⏱️ 3 hrs | 📍~1,200 ft | ⛰️ 600 ft gain | 💪 3/5
Forest trail to basalt-column waterfalls a photographer’s dream.----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Day 3 – Icebergs & Epic Canyons
Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon
🥾 .5mi (0.8 km) | ⏱️ 30 min |📍~20 ft | ⛰️ 0 ft gain | 💪 1/5
Short walk to see icebergs drift to Diamond Beach.Múlagljúfur Canyon
🥾 3mi (4.8 km) | ⏱️ 3 hrs | 📍~1,000 ft| ⛰️ 1,000 ft gain | 💪 4/5
Steep and rugged - dramatic cliffs and glacier views that’ll stop you in your tracks.----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Day 4 – Canyon & Crater Day
Fjaðrárgljúfur Canyon
🥾 1.5mi (2.4 km) | ⏱️ 1 hr | 📍~650 ft| ⛰️ 330 ft gain | 💪 2/5
Easy canyon rim walk with unreal views.Mt. Laki Crater
🥾 2mi (3.2 km) | ⏱️ 2 hrs | 📍~2650 ft| ⛰️ 650 ft gain | 💪 3/5
Climb through volcanic terrain for panoramic views.----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Day 5 – Vatnajökull National Park
Scenic Exploration
🥾 Variable | ⏱️ 1–2 hrs | 💪 1/5
Gentle day - glacier lookouts, short walks, and time to soak it all in.💰 Trip Cost & Details
Total Cost: $3,879 per person
- Optional Add-On: My Own Room +$659 (only 3 available)
If you book the My Own Room option, you’ll receive your own single room for all 5 nights.
✅ What’s Included
- 5 nights accommodation (shared rooms unless My Own Room is booked)
- 12 meals total: 6 breakfasts, 4 lunches, 2 dinners
- Guided hikes with expert local guides (glacier, canyon, volcano, fjords)
- All ground transportation in Iceland during the trip
- Entrance fees and permits for national parks and hiking areas
- Guided Northern Lights tour
- Group airport transfers on arrival and departure days
- Tips for guides and drivers (already covered for you)
- An experienced trip leader (that’s me!) to handle details so you can focus on adventure + connection
- Connection with a small, badass group of women travelers (max 16)
❌ What’s Not Included
- International flights to/from Iceland
- Travel insurance (required)
- Meals not listed in the itinerary
- Alcoholic beverages and personal snacks
- Rental hiking boots - ISK 1000 (~$8USD) for glacier hike if needed
- Personal expenses (souvenirs, laundry, etc.)
✈️ Additional Cost Estimates
- International Airfare: $800–$1,200 (main cabin economy; varies by departure city)
- Trip Protection/Travel Insurance: Approximately $175 (varies by home state and age)
- Optional Add-On — My Own Room: +$659 (only 3 available)
📅 Payment Schedule
- Deposit: $500 (non-refundable) due at booking to secure your spot
- Final Payment: Due by June 12, 2026
- Payment Plans Available: Monthly automatic drafts
🎉 Optional Post-Trip Adventures (Because Why Stop the Fun?)
Not ready for Iceland to let you go just yet? Stick around and keep the adventure rolling—just $497 per person!
✨ Extra Night in Reykjavik: Extend your stay in this quirky, colorful city and soak in all the charm you didn’t get to on the main trip.
✨ The Phallus Museum & Phallic Café: Yes, you read that right. Iceland celebrates the…ahem…more “unique” aspects of life. The Phallus Museum houses a one-of-a-kind collection of phallic artifacts from all over the world, and the Phallic Café is a playful, tongue-in-cheek spot to grab a drink and a laugh. Totally bizarre, totally unforgettable, and 100% Instagram-worthy.
✨ Spa Day: After all the hiking, glaciers, and volcanoes, treat yourself to a relaxing spa experience before heading home. Melt away the adventure dust and toast to an epic trip with your fellow travelers.This add-on is 100% optional and not included in the main trip cost. To guarantee your spot, it must be booked by March 12, 2026. After that, participation will be subject to availability.
Say yes to one more day of laughter, adventure, and unforgettable memories—Reykjavik is waiting!

Your Advisor
Rachel McDowell
The Unfiltered Traveler

rachel@theunfilteredtraveler.com
9288305171