South Coast Adventure
January 18 – 21, 2027
Starting from $3,299 per person*
*$750 single supplement
JANUARY 18 – 21, 2027
$3,299 per person*
*$750 single supplement
Explore Iceland’s dramatic South Coast, where black-sand beaches, thundering waterfalls, lava fields, glacier lagoons, and towering icecaps create one of the country’s most unforgettable landscapes. From the seaside village of Vík and the striking basalt formations of Reynisfjara to Jökulsárlón’s floating icebergs, Diamond Beach, Skaftafell’s natural beauty, and the powerful waterfalls of Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss, this journey reveals the stunning contrasts of Iceland’s famed land of fire and ice.
ITINERARY
Day 1: Monday, January 18, 2027
Depart Reykjavík for the quaint village of Vik. After our Gunnuhver Hot Springs tour, we’ll enjoy a group lunch on our scenic drive down the south coast. Upon arrival in Vik, check into the hotel and enjoy a night at leisure.
(B, L, D)
Day 2: Tuesday, January 19, 2027
Today, breakfast is available at the hotel. We’ll then depart for a full day of exploration as we cross Eldhraun, the largest mass of lava ever to flow on Earth, before reaching the small town of
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Kirkjubaejarklaustur, a former site of a 12th century Catholic convent. Onwards to Skaftafell National Park, one of Iceland’s most outstanding areas of natural beauty. We continue to the stunning Jokulsaron Glacial Lagoon to see floating icebergs and the Diamond Beach. Throughout the day, we are afforded magnificent views of the mighty Vatnajökull Glacier.
(B, L, D)
Day 3: Wednesday, January 20, 2027
This morning, after breakfast, we’ll check out of the hotel and enjoy an entire day exploring the wonders of the south coast. First, we’ll visit Reynisfjara, a black-sand beach that is one of Iceland’s most iconic
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natural attractions. This shoreline features black sands, formed from sea-worn black volcanic rocks. Also at the stop, you can see the bizarre and otherworldly basalt column wall. Solheimajokull is an outlet glacier of the much larger icecap of Myrdalsjokull. The vast grandeur of the area gives you a glimpse of the landscape-changing power these mighty glaciers have wielded over the years. Visit the majestic Seljalandsfoss and Skogafoss waterfalls, and the black-sand beaches along the South Coast, where the famous volcanoes are also located. Iceland’s reputation as the “land of fire and ice” is well earned. Nowhere is this contrast more visible than on the country’s south coast. Landscapes, geological features, and colors change from one moment to the next along this scenic route. We will also stop at the interactive Lava Centre to discover the natural forces that shaped the earth and began forming Iceland tens of millions of years ago. En route to Reykjavik, pass the charming village of Hveragerdi. This village is one of the few sites in the world located directly over a geothermal area. Because of its many greenhouses heated by hot water from nearby springs, it is often called the “flower village. ”
(B, L)
Day 4: Thursday, January 21, 2027
After breakfast, we’ll make our way to the airport for our flights home.
(B)
ACCOMMODATIONS
Hotel Vik
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS (FAQS)
Is international airfare included?
International airfare is not included. However, we can assist in coordinating flights upon request.
When I depart, will there be a group transfer?
Yes, there will be a scheduled group transfer from the Parliament Hotel in Reykjavík to the KEF airport. EPIX can arrange for a private transfer from the hotel to the airport at an additional cost or provide you with many independent transportation options if the group transfer time does not work for you.
What if I’m traveling solo?
Solo travelers are welcome! We can either match you with a same-gender roommate, or you can opt for a single supplement for an additional fee to secure a private room.
What is included and what is excluded?
Inclusions:
In program transportation
All tips and gratuities
All admission fees
All meals listed in the itinerary
Accommodations at the Vik Hotel and Parliament Hotel
Itinerary listed excursions
Exclusions:
Airfare and fees
Baggage fees
Insurance
Transportation outside of the program dates
Transportation to and from the airport outside of the group transfer
Incidentals
Personal services (spa fees, personal assistance, etc.)
What is the cancellation and deposit policy?
To hold your space on the program, we do not require an additional deposit outside of your main program deposit. In the event you need to cancel, all deposits are refundable until October 15, 2026. After October 15, 2026, all payments are non-refundable.
What is the weather like in January in Vik, Iceland?
In January, Vík, Iceland is cold, very windy, wet, and dark, but not brutally Arctic-cold because it sits on the South Coast near the ocean.
Temperature
Around 33°F to 39°F on average, roughly 0°C to 4°C.
Rainfall
Frequent rain, sleet, snow, or mixed precipitation. Vík is one of Iceland’s wetter coastal areas, and January is very wet.
Daylight
Short days. Expect roughly 5 to 6 hours of daylight, with sunrise late morning and sunset mid-afternoon. Reykjavík averages about 5 hr 35 min of daylight in January, and Vík is similar.
Wind
This is the real problem. January can be extremely windy, especially near beaches, cliffs, and open roads. The average January wind speed is around 42 mph, which is significant.
What to Wear
For Vík, Iceland in January, you should dress for wet cold and heavy wind, not just low temperatures. The air may hover around freezing, but the wind, rain, sleet, and sea spray can make it feel much colder. Your best approach is to wear layers. Start with a warm base layer, ideally merino wool or synthetic thermal underwear on both your top and bottom. Avoid cotton because it holds moisture and can make you cold quickly. Over that, wear an insulating mid-layer such as a fleece, wool sweater, or lightweight puffer jacket. A traditional Icelandic wool sweater can be great, but it should not be your outermost layer because wind and rain can cut through it.
Your outer layer is the most important part. You should wear a waterproof and windproof winter jacket with a hood, preferably something more protective than a basic “water-resistant” coat. For your legs, waterproof pants or shell pants are strongly recommended, especially if you plan to visit waterfalls, Reynisfjara black sand beach, glacier areas, or stand outside at night looking for the northern lights. Jeans are not ideal because they get wet, stay wet, and become very cold.
For footwear, wear waterproof insulated hiking boots with good traction. Sneakers are a bad idea in January because they can get soaked, cold, and slippery. Pair your boots with wool socks, and bring extra socks in case your feet get wet. You may also want traction cleats or microspikes for icy parking lots, sidewalks, and walking paths.
You should also bring a warm hat that covers your ears, a neck gaiter or scarf, waterproof gloves or mittens, and thin glove liners if you need to use your phone or camera. Hand warmers are helpful, especially if you are standing outside at night. Sunglasses can also be useful because winter glare, wind, and low sun can be surprisingly harsh. If you plan to visit hot springs, pools, or hotel hot tubs, bring a swimsuit too.
For northern lights viewing, dress even warmer than you think you need to. Because you will likely be standing still in the dark, you can get cold very quickly. Add an extra puffer jacket or heavier mid-layer, wear thicker wool socks, and use hand warmers. In short, the best outfit for Vík in January is a thermal base layer, warm fleece or wool mid-layer, waterproof insulated parka, waterproof pants, wool socks, waterproof hiking boots, a warm hat, neck gaiter, and waterproof gloves. The key is simple: waterproof on the outside, warm on the inside, no cotton, and very good boots.
Should I get travel insurance?
Protecting your trip with travel insurance is highly recommended.
EPIX Travels works with a third-party vendor, Yonder, for free, fast, online insurance quotes. You can quote your trip instantly online here: https://epixtravels.com/travel-insurance/
TERMS AND CONDITIONS
Terms and Conditions, Release from Liability, Assumption of Risk, and Binding Arbitration Clause
This Agreement is significant. It includes terms and conditions and releases EPIX Travels from liability. Acceptance of this Agreement occurs upon booking this program.
Tour Details
Tour Name:
South Coast Adventure
Tour Dates:
January 18 – 21, 2027
Tour Operator:
EPIX Travels
Program Size:
Limited to 27 participants from Yale University
Airfare:
EPIX Travels is not liable for any airline cancellation penalties incurred by purchasing non-refundable airline tickets for this tour. The issued air ticket constitutes the sole contract between the passenger and the airline. It is recommended that participants purchase refundable airline tickets or airfare insurance in case of changes or trip cancellation.
Cancellations and Refunds:
Deposit:
A main program deposit is required. Cancellations must be in writing. Deposits are refundable until October 15, 2026.
Final Payment Deadline:
October 15, 2026
Refund Policy:
Deposits are refundable if written notice of cancellation is received by October 15, 2026. After October 15, 2026, deposits are non-refundable. All payments after the final payment deadline are 100% non-refundable. No refunds are provided for non-completion of the tour or unused services. EPIX Travels reserves the right to cancel the tour or require any participant to withdraw if deemed necessary for the health, safety, or general welfare of the group or individual, subject to a refund of the recoverable portion of unused services and accommodations.
Insurance:
Travel insurance for trip cancellation, interruption, medical issues, baggage loss, and delay is highly recommended. Participants should carry travel insurance details with them and understand the difference between “primary” and “secondary” insurance.
Changes in Itinerary, Program, and Costs:
EPIX Travels reserves the right to alter the itinerary for the safety and best interest of the group. Participants are responsible for any additional expenses incurred due to changes. EPIX Travels may bill participants for unforeseen fuel surcharges or port fees levied by the cruise provider. Accommodations are subject to change, but will be of the same quality if changed. The faculty leader’s participation is subject to reaching a minimum number of travelers and is not guaranteed.
Personal Information:
Personal information provided by participants is confidential and only shared with entities providing tour services. Name, home city, and email address may be included in the tour participant list distributed to tour staff and participants. EPIX Travels may use photographs or video taken during trips for promotional purposes without compensation.
Inadvertent Errors and Changes:
Reasonable efforts have been made to ensure the accuracy of information presented. EPIX Travels is not responsible for errors or damages resulting from the use of this information. Information is subject to change.
Responsibility:
EPIX Travels does not own or operate entities providing goods or services for the trip. All such entities are independent contractors. EPIX Travels is not liable for any negligent or willful acts of these entities or any other third party. This includes, but is not limited to, acts of God, government actions, war, civil unrest, strikes, criminal or terrorist activities, overbooking, accommodation downgrading, transportation failures, recreational activity dangers, food poisoning, lack of medical care, or other causes beyond EPIX Travels’ control.
Coronavirus (COVID-19):
Participants assume all risks related to COVID-19, including sickness, incapacity, or death, and agree to hold EPIX Travels harmless from such developments. Risks include, but are not limited to, quarantine requirements, transportation issues, and necessary medical attention. Proof of COVID-19 vaccination may be required, and any related expenses are the participant’s responsibility. Tour staff has the authority to isolate symptomatic individuals and require medical testing.
Assumption of Risk:
Participants acknowledge the risks of travel, including illness, injury, or death from various causes. Medical services may not be readily available during the trip. Participants accept these risks as part of the adventure and assume full responsibility for any consequences.
Binding Arbitration:
Any disputes related to this Agreement, the brochure, or the trip itself will be resolved by binding arbitration according to the Federal Arbitration Act and the rules of the AAA or JAMS. Proceedings will take place in Delaware and be resolved under Delaware law. Both parties waive their right to a jury trial.
Voluntary Participation:
Participants acknowledge voluntary application and participation in the trip, having read and understood the trip description and all related information.
Knowing and Voluntary Execution:
Participants confirm they have read, understand, and voluntarily accept this Agreement, recognizing it as a release of liability and a contract with EPIX Travels.