Fitness Requirements
While the tour itinerary should give you some guidance and overview to the expected requirements, to determine if this tour is right for you we categorise each of our tours in terms of their intensity. These guidelines are to ensure that each tour group is conducted as expected and to ensure the overall satisfaction of all Inspiring Vacations customers.
As a general rule, porterage is not included, therefore at all times you are expected to handle your own luggage where help may not be available.
This particular tour is categorised as a “3”:
3 – Moderate Tour: A good level of fitness and mobility is required, as this tour includes a moderate level of physical activity and is considered a medium-fast paced tour. You should be able to walk up and down stairs, get on and off the coach and able to walk reasonable distances of approximately 2 kilometres per day or more with ease. Any physical ailments you may have must be disclosed at the time of booking to determine your suitability. If you have any form of walking aids, other than a walking stick or hiking poles, then this tour is not suitable.
Luggage Requirements:
We want to ensure your journey with us is as enjoyable as possible. We understand that travelling during the winter season in Norway and Iceland may pose challenges. Given you are responsible for handling your own luggage throughout the trip, please be aware that moving luggage in snow or icy conditions can be challenging. For this reason, and to ensure that we are not exceeding the overall luggage allowances on our ground transportation, we recommend packing light (not exceeding 20kg per person) and being prepared for such conditions.
Tipping
Tipping in Scandinavia is not compulsory, however, they are much appreciated, especially as a reward if guests feel someone has delivered good service. Tips and gratuities are not included for this package and are discretionary. If you wish to reward good service, the suggested amounts are:
Local assistant or guide transfer: EUR 10.00 per person, per service
Guide: EUR 5-6 per person, per day
Driver: EUR 2-3 per person, per day
Hurtigruten Cruise: There are no guidelines as such; tips and gratuities are appreciated but not expected. Please speak to cruise staff on-board for more information.
Accommodation
The accommodation listed is subject to change. Any changes will be of an equal or higher standard. Bedding configurations (double or twin) are requests only. All efforts will be made to meet your preferences however any changes are beyond our control.
Some areas in Norway are known for their cozy accommodations, and this may mean that rooms are smaller than what you're accustomed to. Rest assured, our chosen hotels prioritise comfort and convenience.
Single Supplement
Single supplement is $3,389.00 per person, in addition to the twin-share price.
In order to keep our Single Supplement at a reduced cost, some hotels may allocate solo travellers with a dedicated Single Room. At times this may mean a single bed will be provided.
Triple Share
Not available.
Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is recommended to protect yourself against the unexpected. In addition to the support that a policy may provide, you may be asked to present a copy of your travel insurance documentation while traveling.
Group Size
10-24 people.
Children
Children must be 5 years old or over and share a room with parents at all times. Children are charged the same price as adults.
Tour Style
To meet the needs of various types of travelers, we choose to operate various types of tours, and depending on your selected package will mean different services are provided throughout your trip. The following descriptions of each tour style we hope will ensure that each traveller has appropriate expectations before they start their travels:
- Group Tour - Offers unparalleled value for money and are the perfect style of travel for those on a budget, though still eager to pack as much into their itinerary as possible. These tours tick all the boxes with an abundance of inclusions such as sightseeing highlights, expert tour guides, quality accommodation, transfers, coach transportation, some meals and more. Please note that the maximum group size will vary between deals and will be mentioned within the Fine Print of each deal page.
Finland and Norway:
For days 1 - 16 of this tour, you will be fully escorted by an expert English-speaking guide who will accompany you throughout the tour.
Iceland:
Partially Escorted - day 17 will be unescorted, you will be expected to make your own way to Oslo Airport to catch your flight to Reykjavik. Upon arrival in Reykjavik, you will have an included FlyBus transfer from the airport. On Day 18 of the itinerary, you will be met with your guide and driver for the rest of your travels in Iceland.
Northern Lights
Please note, the Northern Lights are a natural phenomena and can't be guaranteed. The dates provided will give you the best chance of hopefully viewing the lights during your trip, but Inspiring Vacations will not be liable for any departures which unfortunately don't see the Northern Lights during their trip.
What to pack for your Norway & Iceland Winter Tour
To ensure your comfort we suggest packing base and mid layers, along with a substantial winter jacket, a wool or fleece hat, balaclava/buff, gloves, a woolly jumper, scarf, winter boots.. Keep in mind the layering principle: it's more effective to wear several thin layers than a few thick ones.
In exceptionally cold conditions, consider wearing two pairs of gloves – a thick pair of mitts (as mitts keep your hands warmer by not separating the fingers) and a thin pair of gloves underneath for finger dexterity. For those susceptible to cold extremities, consider acquiring carbon hand and foot warmers, typically found in reputable outdoor stores.
It is highly recommended to pack (or buy in a local shop) snow spikes/cleats. These anti-slip traction accessories for your shoes will come in very handy towards navigating slippery roads and slopes. Just keep these handy as you will be expected to remove them before entering shops and restaurants.