Iceland Expedition

August 20-29, 2027 | Iceland | $13750

I first set foot on Icelandic soil in 2016, in the early days of my journey as a photographer. In the years that followed, I returned countless times, through storms, under the midnight sun, across aurora-lit nights, and over silent volcanic plains, and I fell deeply in love with this rugged island in the North Atlantic.

However, in recent years, my focus shifted toward Africa, yet this geothermal paradise at the edge of the Arctic always held a special place in my heart. It was last summer, when some of my returning expedition guests began asking about Iceland, that the idea was sparked to return to the drawing board. I realized I could combine my local network, elaborate photographic understanding of the islandic landscape, and my fascination with Icelandic light to craft something truly unique.

It is with great pride that I now launch this expedition: a carefully designed photographic journey into the very heart of Iceland, far beyond the crowded viewpoints. Together, we will venture to places most travelers never see, traveling in all-terrain vehicles to some of the island’s wildest glaciers, volcanoes, and geothermal zones. If you’ve ever dreamed of experiencing Iceland in a raw, intimate, and unforgettable way, this expedition is your chance to make that dream real.

Important information

Dates: August 20-29, 2027 (9 days)
Tour starts/ends in: Reykjavik, Iceland
Price: $13750 per person (based on twin sharing / double sharing accommodation)
Deposit payment: $3500 per person (paid upon booking in order to hold your seat), 120 days prior to departure the remaining balance of $10250 will have to be paid
No single supplement available
Group size: min 8, max 12
Vehicle configuration: 2 extended, heavily modified off-road Ford Excursion XL vehicles
Experience level: Anyone is welcome, from beginners to professionals, no photography experience is needed
Above price is incl VAT
Make sure to read the Terms & Conditions before booking by clicking here

This expedition is designed for photographers and explorers who understand that the greatest luxury is not indulgence, but time, access, and presence. Traveling in two extended, heavily modified off-road vehicles, we journey deep into Iceland’s highlands, crossing terrain unreachable by standard travel. This is not a rushed itinerary. It is a carefully paced immersion into Iceland’s most powerful and remote landscapes, where photography unfolds naturally and the experience itself becomes the reward.

Day-to-day itinerary

Day 1 – Arrival in Reykjavik

Arrival in Reykjavík, Iceland’s quietly sophisticated capital. After settling into our hotel, the remainder of the day is intentionally relaxed. Reykjavík offers a gentle introduction to Iceland, its architecture, design, and culinary scene reflecting both Nordic restraint and creative confidence. Depending on arrival times, there is time for a short walk through the city, a visit to the harbor, or simply rest after travel. In the evening, we gather for a welcome dinner and expedition briefing. This is a moment to connect as a group, align expectations, and set the tone for the journey ahead.

Day 2 – From Fjords to the Highlands

Leaving Reykjavík behind, we travel through Hvalfjörður, a serene and often overlooked fjord where mountains descend directly into the sea. From here, the road turns inland through Lundareykjadalur, a broad valley that marks the transition from cultivated land to wilderness. As we continue, the landscape opens into ancient lava fields north of Skjaldbreiður volcano and south of Langjökull glacier. The sense of scale increases, and signs of habitation gradually disappear.

We enter the legendary Kjölur highland route, an interior crossing that historically connected north and south Iceland long before modern roads. This is where Iceland begins to feel truly vast. By afternoon, we arrive at Kerlingarfjöll Highland Base, set among glaciers and active geothermal valleys.

The Highland Base offers refined comfort in one of Iceland’s most remote regions. It’s a thoughtfully designed mountain lodge, with a geothermal hot pool overlooking the highlands and a high-quality restaurant focused on local ingredients.

Day 3 – Kerlingarfjöll: Fire, Ice, and Time

This is a day fully dedicated to the Kerlingarfjöll region. This area is defined by contrast: colorful rhyolite mountains, steaming geothermal fields, and nearby glaciers pressing in from the horizon. The terrain feels almost otherworldly, alive, shifting, and expressive. Today is deliberately unstructured. We move slowly, allowing light, weather, and instinct to guide us. This is a day for patience, exploration, and deep engagement with the landscape. There is no rush, no pressure, only time.

Day 4 – Icons and Hidden Valleys

We travel south along Kjölur before descending toward two of Iceland’s most recognizable natural features: Gullfoss waterfall, where glacial water plunges into a rugged canyon, and the Geysir geothermal area, where Strokkur erupts regularly, sending columns of boiling water skyward.

From here, we leave the main routes and enter Þjórsárdalur, a fertile valley shaped by both volcanic destruction and natural renewal. We explore three remarkable locations: Hjálparfoss, a perfectly balanced twin waterfall framed by basalt columns. Gjáin, a hidden canyon filled with waterfalls, lava formations, and lush greenery, and Háifoss, one of Iceland’s tallest waterfalls, plunging dramatically into a deep gorge. By evening, we arrive at Hotel Highland at Hrauneyjar, a remote highland lodge offering warmth, comfort, and isolation in equal measure. Outdoor hot tubs provide the perfect end to a long and visually rich day.

Day 5 – Remote Routes to Landmannalaugar

Today we venture deeper into the highlands, following lesser-traveled routes toward Landmannalaugar. This region is famous for its multicolored rhyolite mountains, obsidian lava flows, and geothermal steam rising from the earth. The terrain feels expressive and alive, constantly shifting in color and form. We explore on foot, taking time to absorb the landscape and, weather permitting, soak in the natural geothermal pool. This is Iceland at its most vibrant, and most intimate.

Day 6 – Fjallabak Syðri and Mælifell

Continuing through Fjallabak Syðri, north of Mýrdalsjökull glacier, we travel across some of the most dramatic terrain in the southern highlands. Along the way, we stop at Rauðaskál crater, with its striking red volcanic slopes. Pass Hekla volcano, one of Iceland’s most historically feared eruptions sites and Krakatindar, a remote volcanic ridge rarely visited. We then cross the vast black sands of Mælifellssandur, an immense volcanic desert where scale and solitude dominate. Rising from this plain is Mælifell, a solitary cone often cloaked in green moss, one of the most striking sights in the highlands. In the evening, we descend toward the south and arrive at UMI Hotel, where comfortable rooms, good food, and warm water await.

Day 7 – South Coast: Black Sand beaches, Sea-Cliffs, Waterfalls and a Glacier Hike

Today we set out to explore Iceland’s spectacular South Coast, renowned for its dramatic landscapes and ever-changing beauty. Our journey includes an unforgettable visit to Sólheimajökull, where we’ll gear up for a guided glacier experience, strapping on crampons, donning a safety harness and helmet, and wielding an impressive ice axe as we traverse the ancient ice. Continuing along the coast, we’ll take in iconic highlights such as Dyrhólaey with its sweeping ocean views and dramatic cliffs, and the thundering Skógafoss, one of Iceland’s most celebrated waterfalls. We’ll also venture onto private black sand beaches, driving directly across the volcanic sands in our specially equipped super trucks, an experience few get to enjoy.

With a bit of luck, we may even spot the adorable puffins along the coast. After a full day of exploration and adventure, we return to the comfort and tranquility of UMI Hotel to relax and reflect on the day’s remarkable experiences.

Day 8 – Westman Islands and Rib Boat Adventure

Today begins with a relaxed morning at our cozy hotel before we make our way to the harbour for a short and scenic ferry ride to the Westman Islands (Vestmannaeyjar).

In summer, the Westman Islands are nothing short of spectacular, especially for photographers. Dramatic basalt cliffs rise straight out of the Atlantic, lush green slopes soften the volcanic terrain, and the islands come alive with seabirds, including one of the world’s largest puffin colonies. The long daylight hours offer exceptional lighting conditions, from soft morning hues to golden evenings, making it an ideal setting for landscape, wildlife, and nature photography. Add to that the striking volcanic history, colorful harbor views, and endless ocean backdrops, and it’s easy to see why Vestmannaeyjar is such a visual treasure.

Upon arrival, we step aboard a high-speed RIB boat for a private adventure on the water. From the sea, the islands reveal an entirely different perspective. As we skim across the waves, we explore the archipelago’s rugged coastline, weaving past towering cliffs, hidden sea caves, and extraordinary rock formations. The exhilaration of bouncing over the open ocean is balanced by moments of stillness in remote spots where the scale of nature feels both powerful and deeply peaceful. This private experience offers a rare sense of isolation and freedom, far removed from everyday life, and unforgettable photographic opportunities at every turn.

After our time on the water, we return to the mainland and make our way back to Reykjavík, where the journey began. The evening concludes with a special farewell dinner, a chance to reflect on the landscapes explored, the adventures shared, and the magic encountered along the way.

It’s a fitting and memorable finale, an elegant close to an adventurous journey through Iceland’s wild and captivating beauty.

Day 9 – Departure

After days spent immersed in glaciers, volcanoes, highlands, and silence, we leave with more than photographs. We leave with a deeper sense of place, and of time well spent.

Testimonials of previous participants

As you probably know, I have been hosting expeditions to Africa for some years now. After each expedition I am asking participants to write a short testimonial, below you find a few examples of last year.

To get you in the right mood, here’s a wonderful video testimonial created by Yash, one of my previous guests on an expedition to Kenya, watch the full video to get an impression of what’s it like to join one of my expeditions.

Heather (USA) - This was not my first safari, but it was going to be the first time to Africa for my father, who is 82 years young. He had waited many decades for the stars to line up, for this opportunity to arise, and had high hopes of seeing all that could be seen, but realized it was a big ask. But not for Pie - this trip surpassed any and all expectations. Honestly, absolutely nothing could be improved. It became a running joke — everyday Pie would ask my father what he wanted to see the next day, and low and behold, the request would be fulfilled. Pie’s resources, connections and his ability to bring together a small group of strangers into a harmonious family are undeniable. I have been on many group travel trips in my lifetime, but never have the dynamics of all, worked so well together. This was a trip of a lifetime, and I can’t wait to go back.

Sasha (USA) - I just got back from a life changing expedition with Pie in Kenya, and literally had the time of my life. The thoughtful care and effort Pie puts into planning these trips was evident every day, and it was clear he has spent years building meaningful relationships with everyone involved in Africa. The Kenyan people were kind and genuine beyond words and truly added to the overall experience. I felt safe and taken care of the entire trip. I made tons of new friends with fellow photographers, witnessed endless sightings of incredible wildlife and landscapes, ate some of the best food of my life, and walked away feeling inspired, full of emotion, and ready to take my business to the next chapter. Throughout the trip, Pie shared his knowledge and expertise whenever he could - during workshops, meals, even during jeep drives! The connections made during our time together became apparent during our goodbye’s, especially when the tears started flowing… haha. Overall, it was unbelievable how much education, life experiences, and joy were packed into 10 long days. It’s an investment for sure, but also the trip of a lifetime, and one that everyone should experience!

Michelle (USA) - Where to begin, Pie’s expedition was a trip of a lifetime! One that will have me buzzing for a long, long time. Amboseli and the Masai Mara are two very unique and magical places that stole my heart from the beginning but what was extra special was the amount of knowledge I took home from hours upon hours of being in the bush and learning from Pie. To add to that, the lodges were absolutely incredible as was the heaps of delicious food we had at every meal. I had tears in my eyes on the final day knowing I was leaving such a special country and even more special group of people that came together from all over the world to learn about photography and be immersed in the African bush for 10 days.

Tobias (United Kingdom) - This is the third time I have been on a trip with Pie and every trip seems to get better and better. It’s more than just a photography trip, you almost seem part of a family. The relationships Pie builds with the people in his groups is what really makes these trips so special. The wildlife is mind blowing and Pie works with the best guides that do everything they can to get you in to the best positions for photography. This specific trip opened my eyes more than ever to the challenges that wildlife and humans face in Africa during climate change and droughts, and witnessing this first hand has had a huge impact on me personally. I can’t thank Pie enough for making a trip like this possible and I also can’t thank everyone who was there enough for making it so unforgettable.

Noortje (South Africa) - This Kenya expedition was about so much more than just taking photos. It gave us an insight into Pie’s adventurous spirit and way of living, his view on the planet, our place on it and how we coexist with the natural world. Understanding that is what ultimately results in taking great images and we certainly achieved that! It was a beautiful and wild adventure, and Pie’s enthusiasm, commitment and honesty made the trip unforgettable! Thank you for your knowledge, the laughs, the chases, the fantastic food (!) and all the in-between moments!

Yash (India) - I mean it when I say that this trip to Africa has had a huge effect on who I am, and I mean it in the most positive way possible. I came thinking only about photography, but left with an African experience so raw and so moving. My eyes opened to incredible stories of the people and wildlife, which I attempted to capture with my camera under the guidance and teachings from Pie. And last but not least, and which was totally unexpected, but I left with a new found group of incredible people that I consider as one of my closest friends.

Nathalie (Netherlands) - This was definitely a once in a lifetime trip! It was an incredible experience to hitch a ride on Pie’s passion and energy. It was a wonderful group, with a great variety in personalities and background, which made the expedition even more special. Every little detail was right! I dare to say it was a dream which unfortunately I have to wake up from now, but I’ll carry it with me the rest of my life.

Capucine (France) - A trip of lifetime, this is what was promised and the dream became a reality! I had an amazing time in the bush with the best group of people. Amboseli and Masai Mara blew my mind with the abundance of wildlife. Going from shooting unbelievable scenes to having the most delicious food in the camp has been a real happiness bubble for 10 days! Very inspiring workshops as well with Pie who definitely made this trip very special. Also, lots of surprises along the trip, which I won’t share here, which made it unforgettable!

Included in the expedition price

All accommodation (twin or double sharing)
All meals (lunch & dinner) including soft drinks
Airport transfers on arrival and departure
All transport in luxury off-road vehicles
Photographic lectures & image review sessions
1-on-1 tuition in the field

Not included in the expedition price

International flight tickets
Travel & cancellation insurance
Tips & gratuities for staff & guides
Visa
Alcoholic drinks
Expenses of personal nature such as souvenirs

Which kind of vehicles will we use?

For this expedition we will use the absolute best of the best. 2 x Ford Excursion XL vehicles. Icelandic Super Jeeps, the swiss army knife of vehicles. Extended, heavily modified off-road vehicles, that comfortably sits 6 passengers, 2 in each row, with plenty of space. The cars are equipped with 44 inch tires, a central tire deflation system, Wifi and 16 USB ports. The vehicles are designed to drive on glaciers and volcanoes, and easily navigate the wildest river crossings.

Do I need any photography experience?

Nope, not at all. Everybody is welcome. Beginners and professionals. Young and old. In fact, a diverse group always makes up for a lot of fun, because the main idea of these expeditions is all about interaction and learning from each other. I’m more than happy to explain you the basics of how to use your camera, but we can also have a deeper conversation about how to grow your personal brand as a visual artist, or how to find your voice. Or about music. art or sports :) So please don’t hesitate if you have never used a camera before, I’m there to help. But also don’t hesitate if you want to fine-tune your professional skills, I’m sure I can help with that too.

What type of gear do I need?

As soon as you have confirmed your booking, we will share an extensive list of recommended gear items that you would need for this expedition. However, don’t stress, any camera will work, it all depends on how you use it. We offer a custom advise for every level, from amateurs and beginners to full professional photographers.

Can I cancel my seat when I change my mind?

For more information about Terms & Conditions click here.

Is there an option to book a private room?

No. On this expedition there’s no single supplement. All rooms are based on twin sharing or triple sharing unless you book as a couple, we will of course offer you double sharing. As soon as the group is complete, we will make a roomplan taking into account personal preferences.

Optional: Fixed Wing Aircraft Aerial Excursion

During our trip, it is possible to embark on a once-of-a-lifetime aerial excursion, to see the Icelandic highlands from the air. This activity comes at an extra cost and is excluded in the rate of this trip. However, I do have very good contacts with various pilots.

The host

My name is Pie Aerts and I’m a photographer. My work examines and questions the intricate and often melancholic relationship between people and place in an attempt to explore why we seem increasingly disconnected from each other, ourselves, and our natural environment. By a research-led exploration of stereotypes, I’m hoping to offer nuanced and personal perspectives on culture, tradition and human relationships. In doing so, I’m consistently prioritizing hope over despair, and coexistence over conflict.

I firmly believe that art has the power to console, heal, and restore our lost connections. Putting this belief into practice, I founded Prints for Wildlife, a fundraising platform that unites over 375 photographers from around the world to sell art in support of conservation. Since its inception in 2020, the platform has generated $2.5 million, donated to African Parks Network and Conservation International.