Welcome to Lost Lands
- Date: From September 7 to 16, 2026
- Duration: 10 days / 9 nights
- Languages: english / spanish
- Places: 10
A great photographic adventure through the Highlands of Iceland.
- From September 7 to 16, 2026
The Trip
Join this 10-day photography expedition and discover Iceland’s most breathtaking landscapes. This is a unique opportunity to photograph the spectacular Highlands and the magical Northern Lights, while learning new techniques from award-winning photographic guides.
We will visit iconic locations such as the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, Mount Kirkjufell, and the black church of Búðir, as well as venture deep into the Highlands, exploring some of the most impressive and remote landscapes in Iceland.
During our expedition, we will embark on unforgettable excursions to:
- Þórsmörk, a spectacular valley surrounded by glaciers and mountains
- Fjallabak and Mælifell, a moss-covered volcano rising from a vast black sand desert
- Landmannalaugar, Sigöldugljúfur, and Ljótipollur, a region of colorful rhyolite mountains, turquoise-water canyons, and an intensely hued volcanic crater
- Kerlingarfjöll and Hveravellir, an area of geothermal mountains and steaming fumarole fields deep in the Icelandic Highlands
- Háifoss and its surroundings, where we will explore one of Iceland’s tallest and most spectacular waterfalls
Iceland is one of the best places in the world to witness the Northern Lights. Our guides will be monitoring the weather and aurora forecasts to ensure the best photographic opportunities.
An unforgettable photography adventure in the Highlands of Iceland awaits us!
About the Tour
- Price: $6.200
- Date: From September 7 to 16, 2026
- Duration: 10 days / 9 nights
- Languages: english / spanish
- Places: 10
- Activity Level: All levels
- Airport Keflavik (KEF)
Video
Highlights
- 12-Day Photography Tour
- Small groups
- Learning with Experts
- Comfortable Travel and Unique Exploration
- Discover Iceland Landscapes
- Night Photography under northern lights
Description
What are the highlands of Iceland?
The Icelandic Highlands are a destination of wonder, mystery and an exceptional atmosphere: otherworldly landscapes that mystify locals and tourists alike. The sparsely inhabited area offers tranquility, serenity and the utmost natural beauty. From glacial rivers and vast black deserts to geothermal attractions and enchanting volcanoes, this inland part of the country is plausibly one of the most splendid places in the world. If you’re craving some off-the-beaten-track adventures, the Icelandic Highlands should be at the top of your bucket list! Unlike other parts of Iceland, however, visiting the Highlands requires meticulous planning and plenty of precautions.
Where are the highlands of Iceland?
“The highlands are located in the center of Iceland. You can reach them from the south, north, east, and west of the country, as they occupy a large part of Iceland’s landmass. That being said, it is not easy to drive through the highlands. The reason why Iceland’s main road, Route 1, circumnavigates the island is that the mountainous highlands are difficult to cross. Instead of traveling through the highlands to go from one side of Iceland to the other, you must drive around them. Therefore, you won’t find major roads in this rugged region where nature reigns supreme.”
Map
Itinerary
The first day starts with arriving at Keflavík International Airport (KEF), where you will take a bus that will drop you off very close to the hotel.
In the afternoon, the whole group will gather in the hotel lobby to get to know each other and head to the amazing attraction FlyOver Iceland.
After breakfast, we will travel to the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, which boasts some of the most photogenic landscapes in the entire country.
You can expect wild coastlines, the spectacular basalt column cliffs of Arnarstapi, the charming black church of Búðir, the lava field of Búðahraun, the impressive and peculiar sea stacks of Lóndrangar, and Iceland’s most photographed mountain: Kirkjufell.
Snæfellsnes is also one of the best places in Iceland to witness one of nature’s absolute wonders, the Northern Lights, so we will be keeping a watchful eye at all times to go out with our cameras at night.
Exploring Hvitserkur, the Stone Giant
Our journey today takes us to one of Iceland’s most iconic rock formations: Hvitserkur, a colossal basalt monolith rising above the waters of Húnaflói Bay. With its unmistakable silhouette, resembling a rhinoceros drinking from the sea, this place is a paradise for landscape and long-exposure photography.
Our first stop is Seljalandsfoss, a beautiful waterfall that you can walk around in 360 degrees. Nearby is the magnificent Skogafoss waterfall, a thundering giant with a dizzying 60-meter drop, and Kvernufoss, where you can get up close to capture the texture of the water rushing down to the river below, or simply stay back where you can shoot the waterfall framed by snow-covered cliffs.
Exploring Þórsmörk, the Valley of Thor
Our journey today takes us to one of Iceland’s most breathtaking and untamed landscapes: Þórsmörk, a glacial valley surrounded by towering mountains, braided rivers, and dense birch forests. Named after the Norse god Thor, this natural paradise offers dramatic scenery and unique opportunities for nature and adventure photography.
With its blend of glaciers, canyons, and winding trails, Þórsmörk is the perfect place to capture Iceland’s wild essence. The light filtering through the mountains creates spectacular contrasts, while the ever-changing skies add dynamism to every shot. From the heights of its viewpoints to the valleys sculpted by ice, every corner of this valley is a masterpiece waiting to be photographed.
Exploring Fjallabak and Mælifell: A Journey Through Iceland’s Highland Wilderness
Today, we venture into one of Iceland’s most remote and visually stunning regions: Fjallabak, a breathtaking highland area characterized by its colorful rhyolite mountains, black sand deserts, and meandering glacial rivers. Within this otherworldly landscape stands Mælifell, a strikingly green, pyramid-shaped volcano rising from the vast black sands of Mýrdalssandur.
Mælifell is a dreamlike subject for photography, offering a surreal contrast between its moss-covered slopes and the surrounding volcanic terrain. The ever-changing light in the highlands creates an endless array of photographic possibilities, from dramatic shadows stretching across the sand to golden-hour hues illuminating the mountain’s vivid green surface.
Throughout the day, we will explore the dynamic landscapes of Fjallabak, capturing winding river patterns, rugged mountain ridges, and the interplay of light and texture that make this region so unique. Whether using wide-angle lenses to emphasize the vastness of the land or zooming in on the intricate details of the volcanic formations, this day promises to be an unforgettable photographic experience in Iceland’s untouched wilderness.
Exploring Landmannalaugar, Sigöldugljúfur & Ljótipollur: A Day of Color and Contrast
Today, we embark on an unforgettable journey through some of Iceland’s most mesmerizing landscapes. The Landmannalaugar region, nestled in the heart of the Highlands, is a paradise for photographers, offering a breathtaking palette of multicolored rhyolite mountains, steaming geothermal vents, and winding lava fields. The contrasts here are surreal, with vibrant orange, red, and green hues blending harmoniously against the deep blues of the sky and the rugged black lava.
Our adventure continues to Sigöldugljúfur, also known as the “Valley of Tears.” This hidden canyon is a true gem, where numerous turquoise waterfalls cascade down moss-covered cliffs, creating an ethereal and dreamlike scene. The play of water, light, and texture in this secluded spot provides stunning opportunities for capturing long-exposure shots and rich, dynamic compositions.
Finally, we reach Ljótipollur, an ancient volcanic crater filled with strikingly deep red slopes and a brilliant blue lakeat its center. Despite its name—meaning “Ugly Puddle” in Icelandic—this location is anything but ugly. The stark contrast between the rust-colored crater walls and the serene water makes it a fantastic subject for wide-angle and aerial photography.
As the day progresses, we will experiment with different techniques to highlight the incredible geological diversity of these locations, making the most of the shifting light and dramatic skies to create truly spectacular images.
Exploring Kerlingarfjöll & Hveravellir: A Journey Through Iceland’s Geothermal Highlands
Today, we delve into the heart of Iceland’s highlands, exploring two of its most extraordinary geothermal wonders: Kerlingarfjöll and Hveravellir. These remote and rugged landscapes offer a stunning mix of steaming fumaroles, colorful rhyolite mountains, and bubbling hot springs—perfect for capturing the raw power and beauty of Iceland’s volcanic activity.
Our first stop is Kerlingarfjöll, a breathtaking mountain range where vivid orange and red rhyolite hills are enveloped by rising geothermal steam. This otherworldly landscape provides an incredible contrast between the warm earthy tones of the mountains and the icy patches of snow that remain year-round. As we hike through the area, we’ll have countless opportunities to photograph the dynamic interplay of light, color, and mist, creating ethereal and dramatic compositions.
In the afternoon, we head to Hveravellir, a geothermal oasis situated between the Langjökull and Hofsjökull glaciers. This natural hot spring area is a surreal mix of boiling blue pools, hissing steam vents, and mineral-rich formations. The contrast between the geothermal heat and the surrounding cold wilderness makes for striking visual elements, ideal for capturing unique textures, reflections, and the vibrant hues of the mineral deposits.
Throughout the day, we will focus on creative compositions, long-exposure techniques, and capturing the raw, untouched beauty of Iceland’s geothermal highlands. These remote locations provide a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to witness and document the powerful forces shaping Iceland’s ever-evolving landscape.
Exploring Háifoss and Surrounding Wonders: A Day of Majestic Waterfalls and Rugged Landscapes
Today, we set out to explore one of Iceland’s most breathtaking waterfalls, Háifoss, along with the stunning landscapes and hidden gems nearby. Towering at 122 meters (400 feet), Háifoss is one of Iceland’s tallest waterfalls, plunging dramatically into a deep canyon carved by the Fossá River. Its sheer power and beauty make it a must-visit location for landscape photographers, offering opportunities to capture long-exposure shots, dramatic cliffside perspectives, and the ever-changing interplay of light and mist.
Granni & the Canyon Views
Just beside Háifoss, we find Granni, its “neighboring” waterfall, adding another spectacular element to the already dramatic scenery. The contrast between these twin waterfalls, the rugged cliffs, and the lush moss-covered canyoncreates an unforgettable composition, ideal for experimenting with different focal lengths and angles.
Gjáin: A Hidden Oasis
A short drive from Háifoss takes us to Gjáin, a hidden paradise that feels like stepping into another world. This lush green valley is filled with mini waterfalls, volcanic rock formations, and crystal-clear streams, offering an intimate and fairytale-like setting for photography. The rich textures and soft lighting in this secluded spot are perfect for detailed nature shots, reflections, and macro photography.
Stöng: A Glimpse into Iceland’s Viking Past
Nearby, we visit Stöng, an ancient Viking longhouse ruin dating back to the 12th century. This site provides a fascinating glimpse into Iceland’s early history and an opportunity to capture contrasts between the man-made structures and the surrounding wilderness.
As we move through these diverse locations, we will experiment with different shooting techniques to highlight the incredible range of landscapes, from powerful waterfalls to tranquil green valleys and historic ruins. The ever-changing Icelandic skies will add an extra layer of drama, making every shot a unique masterpiece.
After breakfast, we will head to Keflavik International Airport (KEF) for our return flight.
End of the trip.
Included
- 9 nights of accommodation (shared double room).
- All breakfasts.
- Transportation by private vehicle (including fuel), in transfers.
- Transportation by Super 4×4 vehicle (including fuel), for Highlands
- Photographic advice throughout the trip by professional photographer Jose D. Riquelme.
Not Included
- International flights.
- Visa.
- Travel insurance.
- Anything not listed as included.
- • Single room supplement: +$900
Your guide
JOSE D. RIQUELME
José D. Riquelme is an award-winning photographer born in Murcia, Spain, recognized internationally with various awards and accolades such as:
- "Open Nature Winner and Overall Winner" at the Epson Pano Awards 2023.
- "Photographer of the Year 2021" in the night category at the 35awards.
- Four consecutive gold medals at the Trierenberg Super Circuit in Vienna.
- Remarkable Art Work at the Siena International Photo Awards.
- Gold medal at the Pano Epson Awards.
- Finalist at the Xposure International Photography Festival.
- Consistently ranked among the top three landscape and night landscape photographers at the 35awards for three consecutive years, competing with an average of 120,000 participants.
- Special Prize “Amazing Clouds” at The International Landscape Photographer of the Year 2021.
- Winner of the Viewbug "Shooting the Blue Hour" photo contest.
- Winner of Viewbug's Monthly Pro Photo Contest Vol 45.
About the trip
- A Digital Single-Lens Reflex (DSLR) camera or a mirrorless camera
- A sturdy tripod with a ball head
- A wide-angle lens, such as a 14-24 mm
- A medium zoom lens, such as a 24-70 mm
- A telephoto lens, like a 70-200 mm lens
- It is important for a lens to have a good aperture for Milky way, such as a 14 mm f/2.8
- A camera bag to carry all your equipment
- 6-stop ND filter
- A headlamp for night sessions
- Batteries, cleaning kit, and memory cards
- Drone
**Dressing Tips for Your Trip to Iceland in September:**
During your journey to Iceland in September, it’s important to wear comfortable and appropriate clothing for the various activities and weather conditions you’ll encounter. Here are some recommendations:
**Layered Clothing:** Temperatures in Iceland can vary greatly throughout the day, ranging from 5°C to 15°C. Dressing in layers is key to staying comfortable. Start with a moisture-wicking base layer, followed by an insulating mid-layer like fleece or wool, and finish with a waterproof and windproof outer layer to protect against rain and wind.
**Warm Accessories:** Bring a hat, gloves, and a scarf to keep warm, especially when exploring the more exposed areas. The wind in Iceland can be quite strong, so it’s essential to have these accessories to protect yourself from the cold.
**Comfortable Footwear:** Opt for waterproof and sturdy shoes or boots with good grip. You’ll likely be walking on various terrains, including wet and uneven surfaces, so having proper footwear will ensure you can explore comfortably.
**Sun Protection:** Even in September, the sun can be strong, especially with the reflective surfaces like glaciers or the ocean. Wear sunglasses, apply sunscreen, and consider bringing a hat with a brim for added protection.
**Useful Accessories:** A lightweight, foldable backpack is ideal for carrying essentials such as water, snacks, a camera, and additional clothing layers. A reusable water bottle is also recommended to stay hydrated during your excursions.
By dressing appropriately for the varying weather conditions, you will be well-prepared to fully enjoy your Icelandic adventure in September.
- In Iceland, the tap water (cold) is of the highest quality in the world. We recommend buying a small reusable water bottle on the first day of your stay, which you can refill at hotels or any convenient location.
- Wi-Fi will be available in all hotels. For participants from outside Europe, if you wish, you can purchase a SIM card with data. You can buy one at the supermarket right in front of the luggage claim area. Alternatively, you can acquire a virtual e-SIM in advance from websites like https://esim.holafly.com/ or other similar services and activate it upon landing in Iceland.
- It is not necessary to exchange dollars for Icelandic krona in Iceland; you can use your credit card to make payments everywhere. If you want to exchange your currency for krona, you can do so at the airport.
- Iceland uses European type C plugs, so if you are coming from the United States, you will need an adapter.
Flights to Iceland
Round-trip flights to Iceland from Europe and the United States cost approximately $400 to $800. You should book your flight to or from Keflavik International Airport (KEF).
We recommend arriving at Keflavik before 12:00 noon on the start day of the tour so you don’t miss the orientation session.
Some participants choose to arrive a day before the start of the tour, which could be an excellent idea to begin the journey well-rested, especially if you have had a long flight.
Documentation
Iceland follows the visa regulations of the Schengen Area. Depending on your nationality and length of stay, you may need to obtain a visa. If you encounter any problems, feel free to consult us. It is crucial to verify the specific visa requirements for your country of residence before the trip.
Meals
Meals and dinners are not included in the tour price. Generally, we will have breakfast at our accommodation and enjoy meals and dinners at local restaurants.
During the day, we might opt for snacks and picnics on some days to streamline and maximize our time dedicated to photography.
Since both supermarkets and restaurants are relatively expensive in Iceland, we suggest you be prepared to allocate approximately $60-$80 USD daily for your food expenses.
Acommodation
During our photographic adventure through Iceland with Ice Monkey Tours, we will stay in a variety of charming hotels, carefully selected for both their proximity to the photographic destinations on our route and their comfort. To keep pace with our ever-changing photographic itinerary, we will move to different hotels throughout the journey, ensuring we are as close as possible to each day’s points of interest. You will enjoy comfortable double rooms with private bathrooms to fully enjoy your photographic adventure.
- Single room supplement: + $900.
FAQs
The workshop will take place in Iceland, a diverse and captivating landscape that offers a variety of extraordinary photography opportunities.
We have experienced nature photographers who will share their knowledge and techniques. Additionally, you will have the opportunity to learn about aerial photography with drones.
The workshop is designed for photographers of all levels, from beginners to professionals. Sessions will be adapted to meet the needs of all participants, including an introduction to using drones for photography.
Absolutely! We recommend that you bring your drone to capture stunning views from the skies over Iceland .
Yes, there will be specific sessions during the workshop dedicated to aerial photography with drones. Our experts will guide you on best practices and techniques for capturing spectacular images from the air.
Yes, our instructors will be happy to provide guidance on selecting and configuring drones for photography, both before and during the event.
Yes, we recommend it for learning editing techniques.
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$6.200
- Date: From September 7 to 16, 2026
- Duration: 10 days / 9 nights
- Languages: english / spanish
- Places: 10
- Activity Level: All levels
"*" señala los campos obligatorios
Legal terms for all tours ICEMONKEY
The reservation will be confirmed once a payment of 1,000 US dollars has been made.
No spots will be reserved without the deposit.
Final Payment: The final amount must be paid 60 days before the start of the trip.
We understand that attending our workshops requires prior commitment, and also that life events can occur that may force you to cancel a trip. Depending on the cancellation date, the following conditions will apply:
- More than 150 days before the start date of the workshop: full refund of payments made.
- Between 150 and 91 days before the start of the workshop: 50% of the reservation will be refunded.
- 90-61 days before the start of the workshop: 35% of the reservation will be refunded.
- Within 60 days prior to the start of the workshop: No refund will be made.
Accidents:
- IceMonkey is not responsible for accidents involving participants during the workshop and will not cover medical expenses if necessary. During the workshop, each participant is responsible for their own safety and physical integrity.
- IceMonkey is not responsible for accidents or losses of photographic equipment during the workshop. Each participant is responsible for their own photographic equipment.
- Travel insurance is mandatory.
Punctuality:
- Each day of the expedition, all participants must be punctual at the established time. All participants must be at the starting point of the expedition for its commencement. In case of delays due to inconveniences, the participant must communicate with someone from the IceMonkey staff as soon as possible.
Respect:
- Participants may have different levels of knowledge about the subject, which requires patience when explaining topics that are already familiar to them. Each participant’s photographic area must be respected. Disrespect towards a participant or a staff member will not be tolerated. This is a discrimination-free space. We will not tolerate racism, sexism, discrimination based on sexual orientation, or gender identity.
Weather:
- The tour and its itinerary depend on the weather and can change at any time. We will always be attentive to the best weather conditions to determine where to go and optimize photography.