Northern Lights Winter Challenge 2024

Discover stunning scenery on the Northern Lights Challenge and help create positive change for everyone affected by brain tumours.

Discover the stunning scenery on this fantastic trekking challenge in southern Iceland, as you trek through a striking mix of geothermal valleys and beautiful mountain scenery, streams and waterfalls.

You’ll discover the stunning scenery of Iceland on this fantastic trekking challenge in southern Iceland, as you trek through a striking mix of geothermal valleys and beautiful mountain scenery, streams and waterfalls. The warmth of the geothermal activity keeps our route clear of snow, so you can take advantage of seeing this beautiful region in winter, without technical winter trekking.

Staying in huts miles from the nearest big towns, the dark skies offer a great chance of seeing the spectacular Aurora Borealis (Northern Lights) and you watch each evening – the icing on the cake on this memorable challenge!

Trip Itinerary

Day 1: London to Keflavik

Fly to Iceland and on arrival you will be met my guides and transferred to your hostel in the small village of Laugarvatn in southern Iceland. That evening you will hear all about the wonderful challenge ahead and have the first opportunity to look out for the Aurora Borealis (Northern Lights).

Day 2: Lake Þingvallavatn, Gullfoss and Geysir

Today you head to the shores of Þingvallavatn, the largest natural lake in Iceland. This area is known for hiking, and you follow horse tracks and old sheep trails, passing numerous geothermal hotspots. The exact route depends on the path conditions but this is a wonderful introduction to your surroundings. Later, you have the chance to explore the two of Iceland’s most well-known natural wonders – Gullfoss waterfall and Geysir, the spouting hot spring.

Day 3: Geothermal hike

A short drive away, Nesjavellir is an exciting area of geothermal activity, where heat is pumped up and used for heating houses. Your hike explores the magnificent area, with its lava rocks, mud pots and boiled springs. A short transfer takes you back to base, where you have diner. In the evening you can stay at the hostel, or it’s usually possible to bathe at a nearby spa – you may be lucky enough to see the Northern lights from the outdoor jacuzzi!

Day 4: Reykjadalur Hike

A wonderful day awaits, as you leave the hostel and set off for the hills above Reykjadalur. The smell of sulphur is evident before you see the steam vents, hot springs and bubbling mud pools, surrounded by colourful minerals. It’s an impressive sight, and you have plenty of time to explore this dramatic and otherworldly valley. There may be a chance for a dip in a natural pool before continuing north to Nesjavellir, where you meet your awaiting transport and return to Reykjavik. You then head out into this exciting city to celebrate your achievements this week.

Day 5: Reykjavik to London

You have the morning free to explore Reykjavik, or head off for an optional trip to the Blue Lagoon, a thermal spa apprx. 45mins away. You then head off to the airport for an afternoon flight.

Download your itinerary

What’s Included

All meals except where specified, and hostel accommodation
Flights from London to Reykjavik (Keflavik) return and all transport
Discover Adventure Leader; doctor (group size dependent); local guides and drivers
Vehicle support and back-up equipment
Entry to any sites included in the itinerary
Airline taxes

What’s Excluded

Any meals specified as ‘not included’ in the itinerary
Travel insurance
Personal spending money, souvenirs and drinks
Tips for the local guides and support crew
Inbound airport departure tax (no tax applied at time of writing)
Optional winter boot rental (approximately 40 Euros)
Fees for any optional sites, attractions or activities (e.g., spa visit – allow approx £70 if booked well in advance)
Any applicable surcharges as per Terms and Conditions

Payment Options

Registration fee: £299. The registration fee of £299 is payable directly to the event organisers Discover Adventure.

Fundraising option: £3,300. To guarantee your place on this trek, we ask that you have raised £2,640 (80%) 10 weeks before departure and the final £660 (20%) within 2 weeks of your return.

Registration fee: £299. The registration fee of £299 is payable directly to the event organisers Discover Adventure.

Remaining cost of trip: £500 paid directly to the event organisers Discover Adventure.

Fundraising option: £2,300. To guarantee your place on this trek, we ask that you have raised £1,840 (80%) 10 weeks before departure and the final £460 (20%) within 2 weeks of your return.

Registration fee: £299. The registration fee of £299 is payable directly to the event organisers Discover Adventure.

Remaining cost of trip: £1,650 paid approximately 8 weeks before your challenge to the event organisers Discover Adventure.

Fundraising option: Raise as much as you can!