Hey Iceland - Your local travel agent

08/11/2024

🎄 ICELAND IS THE PERFECT CHRISTMAS DESTINATION 🎄

Imagine spending the holiday season in Iceland, where the island transforms into a winter wonderland with snow-covered landscapes, dancing northern lights, and unique christmas traditions.

All about what you can do in Iceland during christmas time in top comment.

01/11/2024

Unlike our famous "Midnight Sun" summers here in Iceland, daylight hours start decreasing rapidly in fall, continuing into winter until the winter solstice in late December. If you have are planning or have already a trip booked to Iceland during the winter time we would like to remind you that the darkness might make you drowsy and that your photos in the iconic landmarks might look different if caught in a dim light. Please take the weather and light into consideration.
Here’s a closer look at how daylight changes during the approach to winter and how it gradually increases afterward:
November
In early November, Reykjavik has about 8 hours of daylight. By the end of the month, daylight drops to about 5 hours.
Sunrise: Roughly around 9:30 a.m. at the start of November, but shifts to about 10:45 a.m. by the end.
Sunset: Moves from around 5:15 p.m. in early November to about 3:45 p.m. by the end.
December (Approaching Winter Solstice)
December sees the shortest daylight hours, culminating around the winter solstice on December 21.
Around the Solstice: Reykjavik experiences just 4-5 hours of daylight.
Sunrise: Approximately 11:20 a.m.
Sunset: About 3:30 p.m.
For areas further north, daylight can be even shorter, with some parts getting closer to 3-4 hours of light.
January (Days Lengthen)
After the solstice, days slowly start to lengthen, and by mid-January, Reykjavik gets about 5-6 hours of daylight.
By the end of January: Light increases to around 7 hours.
Sunrise: Roughly 10:15 a.m. at the beginning of the month, shifting to around 10:00 a.m. by the end.
Sunset: Changes from about 4:00 p.m. to nearly 5:00 p.m.
February (Daylight Increases Faster)
In February, daylight hours continue to grow rapidly. By mid-February, there are 8 hours of daylight, and by the end of the month, it reaches about 10 hours.
Sunrise: Moves from 9:45 a.m. at the start of the month to 8:30 a.m. by the end.
Sunset: Shifts from around 5:45 p.m. to nearly 6:45 p.m.
This change in daylight hours creates a unique winter atmosphere—short days and long nights are ideal for Northern Lights, while the gradual increase in January and February offers more daylight for exploring.

30/10/2024

NOW IS THE PERFECT TIME FOR A SHORT WINTER BREAK TO ICELAND

The days are getting shorter, the aurora has become a frequent display in our skies and the mountains have gotten their beautiful white winter duvet.

It's a perfect time for a short Icelandic winter break. Specially if you need to wind down. There is nothing more relaxing then long nights to get a good rest for both the body and the soul.

Have a look at our Short stay winter tours in the top comment below.

See you in Iceland!

23/10/2024

TOP TEN WINTER ACTIVITIES IN ICELAND

Traveling to Iceland in winter is an adventure like no other. The combination of natural beauty, thrilling activities, and cozy moments makes it a destination worth exploring. So pack your warmest clothes and get ready for an unforgettable journey!

Click the link in top comments below to see our selection of top 10 winter activities in Iceland.

18/10/2024

Hey, are you familiar with any activities (especially the more unusual ones) that Icelanders engage in to cope with the long, cold, dark winters? Here are 7 of them.
Geothermal Pool Soaking: Icelanders regularly visit public pools. These heated pools are social gathering spots where people relax, even in freezing temperatures. It's especially enjoyable to be warm in an outdoor pool while watching snow gently fall.
Reading and Storytelling: Winter is a perfect time for books and storytelling. Iceland has a strong literary culture, and many people spend evenings reading, particularly during Jólabókaflóð (the Christmas book flood), when books are exchanged as gifts.
Northern Lights Watching: The dark winter skies are ideal for aurora hunting. Icelanders enjoy bundling up and going out to watch the Northern Lights dance in the sky.
Knitting: Many Icelanders take up knitting, a traditional craft where they make lopapeysa sweaters from local wool. It’s both a practical way to keep warm and a cultural tradition
Thorrablot Feasts: During the coldest months, Icelanders celebrate Þorrablót, a midwinter festival where they eat traditional foods like sheep face, fermented shark, pickled ram’s testicles, and sour whale blubber. These foods are an acquired taste but are part of Iceland’s heritage.
Winter sports: Even in deep snow, Icelanders stay active with skiing, snowmobiling, and hiking through the rugged winter landscape.
Ísbíltúr- Going in a small tour inside your car around the city or to a nearby countryside with the destination being the icecream parlor is one easy activity that anyone can do to light up the moment.
Would you try all of them? What are common winter activites in your country?

27/09/2024

Driving in Iceland during winter is an incredible experience, but it comes with challenges! Here's what you need to know:
🌨️ Unpredictable Weather: Be ready for snow, ice, and sudden storms. Check road conditions at road.is.
🕐 Limited Daylight: Only 4-5 hours of daylight in December. Plan accordingly and remember that darkness can make you drowsy.
❄️ Road Conditions: Main roads are maintained, but icy patches and snow are common. Stick to a 4x4 and use studded tires.
💨 Strong Winds: Be cautious, especially on bridges and open roads. Open one door at a time.
🚗 Tips: Drive slowly, check the weather, and carry essentials like a shovel and snacks. Stay safe and enjoy the magical landscapes! You can also ask our agents for more information and/or check our blog on the topic.

20/09/2024

Hey! Did you know that Icelandic wool is a unique type? Icelandic sheep are known for thriving in the harsh Icelandic landscape. It’s wool is composed of two layers: "Tog" (the strong, water-resistant outer fiber) and "Þel" (the soft, insulating inner fiber). This combo makes it warm, lightweight, breathable, and water-repellent! Perfect for cold, wet icelandic climate. This wool is also durable and minimally processed, retaining its natural qualities. It’s eco-friendly, sustainable, and used to make traditional garments like the famous "Lopapeysa" sweater. This wool is perfect for staying cozy in style!

12/09/2024

Please mind the sheep!🐑🐑🐑

🇬🇧 EN: This week it’s sheep herding season in Iceland.
This week farmers around the country will be rounding up their sheep. This means that there can be farmers, herds of sheep and horse-riders on the roads some days.
Please be considerate, slow down and show patience while passing 🐏

🇮🇸 IS: Í þessari viku fara fram réttir víðsvegar um landið sem þýðir að mikið gæti verið um fólk, kindur og hestamenn á vegum landsins.
Vinstamlegast hægið á ykkur, sýnið tillitsemi og þolinmæði í umferðinni 🐏

Photo/Mynd: mbl.is

11/09/2024

Autumn in Iceland is a magical season, running from early September to November. The landscape transforms with vibrant colors—mosses turn gold and orange, while birch trees and blueberry bushes glow in shades of yellow and red. The shorter days bring soft, golden light, perfect for photography. It's also prime time for spotting the northern lights as the nights grow darker. Events like the Réttir (Sheep gathering) and berry picking add to the charm. Plus, the waterfalls and glaciers look stunning framed by autumn hues. If you want to know what other activites you can do during fall, check out our blog.

Are you planning an autumn trip to Iceland but not quite sure what activities to add to your itinerary? In this article you will find our 10 favorite activities to in Iceland in the autumn.

11/09/2024

TIPS FOR TRAVELING TO ICELAND WITH A BABY OR TODDLER

To help ease your worries, if you're traveling with a young one, we have put together a guide full of helpful tips that will make traveling with a child to Iceland a smooth adventure. Instead of worrying you will be able to focus on enjoying watching the wonders of Iceland through the eyes of your curious little one!

Link to the blog in top comments

06/09/2024

GUIDE TO RÉTTIR - A FAVOURITE ICELANDIC TRADITION

One of Iceland’s oldest cultural practices, takes place in September. Over weekends, farmers, families and friends gather across the country to retrieve the sheep from the mountains.

Don’t worry, it’s not all hard work; the day is followed by evening festivities of dancing and singing, known as réttarball.

Experiencing réttir for the first time can be a bit daunting, but fear not, here is Hey Iceland’s etiquette guide to this favourite Icelandic tradition.

Link in top comments below

30/08/2024

Réttir is one of Iceland’s oldest and most cherished traditions, marking the end of summer and the beginning of autumn. It’s the annual sheep round-up, where farmers and locals come together to gather sheep from the highlands and sort them for the winter.

What Happens During Réttir:

Sheep Gathering: Throughout the summer, Icelandic sheep roam freely in the mountains and valleys. In September, farmers, along with family, friends, and sometimes tourists, head into the highlands to round up the sheep and bring them back to the communal pens.

Sorting (The Round-Up): Once the sheep are gathered, they are herded into circular pens called "réttir." Each farmer has a designated section where they sort their sheep, identifying them by unique ear tags.

Community Celebration: Réttir is as much a social event as it is a farming task. It’s a time for communities to come together, share food, and celebrate the end of the farming season. After the work is done, there’s often singing, dancing, and sometimes a "réttardansleikur" (round-up dance) in the local community center.

Cultural Significance:

Community and Family: It’s a family affair, with everyone from children to grandparents taking part. It also attracts tourists who want to experience authentic Icelandic culture.

Seasonal Rhythm: Réttir marks the transition from summer to autumn and is a significant event in the farming calendar, ensuring that sheep are safe and accounted for before winter.

Réttir is a special time in Iceland, filled with hard work, community spirit, and cultural pride. Whether you're helping round up sheep or just watching the event unfold, it’s an unforgettable experience that offers a glimpse into Iceland’s agricultural heritage.

See here our blog on the tradition: https://www.heyiceland.is/blog/nanar/7346/icelandic-rettir-a-timeless-tradition

24/08/2024

Menningarnótt, or "Culture Night," is one of Reykjavík’s largest and most vibrant annual events, celebrated on the third Saturday of August. This citywide festival is a celebration of Icelandic culture, arts, and community spirit, transforming the streets of Reykjavík into a lively playground for locals and visitors alike.
What to Expect:
• Live Performances: The city comes alive with music, theater, dance, and art performances. From established artists to emerging talents, the diversity of performances reflects Iceland's rich cultural scene.
• Street Events: Streets and squares are filled with pop-up stages, art installations, and interactive activities. Local businesses and residents often set up their own stalls, offering everything from homemade goods to creative workshops.
• Museums and Galleries: Many museums, galleries, and cultural institutions open their doors for free, offering special exhibitions and tours.
A Day-Long Celebration:
• Daytime Activities: The festivities start early with family-friendly events, parades, and art shows. Whether you’re interested in traditional Icelandic crafts or modern art, there’s something for everyone.
• Nighttime Magic: As night falls, the city takes on a magical atmosphere with light displays, outdoor concerts, and an incredible fireworks show over the harbor. The energy is contagious, with the streets packed with people celebrating late into the night.
Community Spirit:
• Locals Involvement: Menningarnótt is a true community event, with Reykjavík residents actively participating by hosting backyard concerts, art displays, and other creative activities. It’s a time when the city’s neighborhoods open up, and everyone feels like part of one big family.
• Inclusivity: The event is designed to be inclusive, offering something for all ages and interests. It's a time when the whole city comes together to celebrate the cultural heartbeat of Reykjavík.
Menningarnótt is more than just a festival; it's a reflection of Reykjavík's vibrant cultural identity, offering a unique opportunity to experience the warmth and creativity of the Icelandic people.
📅 When: Third Saturday of August 📍 Where: Throughout Reykjavík
https://reykjavik.is/en/culture-night

22/08/2024

WHAT ARE THE TOP 20 MUST-SEE ATTRACTIONS IN ICELAND?

With its breathtaking landscapes, rich history, and vibrant culture, Iceland offers one-of-a-kind experiences for travelers. For those planning a trip to Iceland, here are some of the top attractions that should be on their list.

https://www.heyiceland.is/blog/nanar/7338/what-are-the-top-20-must-see-attractions-in-iceland

14/08/2024

YOUR OWN SELF DRIVE TOUR - TAILORED JUST FOR YOU

If you're not the type who wants to travel in a group or be guided by a stranger then our tailor made self drive tours are a perfect option for you.

We arrange the whole trip for you, tailored to where you want to go, where you want to sleep and we arrange a car for you to drive. We even provide a personal digital guide in you car. Then you can control your own time and enjoy your personal tailor made journey with whom ever you please.

Check out our tailor made option here:
https://www.heyiceland.is/tours/detail/1062/my-own-self-drive

06/08/2024

HOW, WHERE AND WHEN TO SEE NORTHERN LIGHTS IN ICELAND

The Northern lights season in Iceland is from September to April. This is when nights are dark so your chances of seeing the Northern Lights are greater. Unfortunately, no guarantees can be given as visibility depends on weather conditions.

Another important factor to consider is the duration of your stay in Iceland. If you want the greatest odds of spotting they Aurora we recommend that you spend at least seven nights in the country. This is because the Auroras tend to be quite active for two to three nights in a row and then activity drops for four to five nights in ongoing cycles.

We are now offering 15% off our 8 Day Northern light tours. Guarantee your spot in on the link in comments below!

31/07/2024

TRAVEL COMFORTABLY WITH THE HEY GUIDE

Hit the Icelandic roads without the worry of finding your way, accommodation, or highlights along the way, to truly focus on the experience and enjoy the moment.

Our Hey Guide app was designed to assist you on your journey in Iceland, showing your personalized day-to-day itinerary.

The guide gives you recommendations along the way, and helpful information regarding driving conditions, weather forecast, and an option to book daytours and activites you'd like to experience to make your journey even better.

27/07/2024

Drive safely!

**Attention! More roads in that area are now closed. Check https://umferdin.is/en for updates.**
July 27: Floods from Mýrdalsjökull glacier! Until further notice: Road 1 is closed between Vík and road 211, F232 is closed. Respect closures. Travelers are asked to leave the area east of Mýrdalsjökull. Possible dangerous gasses around glacial rivers in the area.