Iceland Expedition

August 6-14, 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 towards building and hosting expeditions in Africa, Patagonia and Himalayas. 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.

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Important information

• Dates: August 6-14, 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 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.

For 5 years I have been running a full-scale expedition business with annually returning expeditions to Kenya, Zambia, Patagonia, Ladakh, Svalbard and India. Now Iceland will be added to my portfolio.

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

For 5 years I have been running a full-scale expedition business with annually returning expeditions to Kenya, Zambia, Patagonia, Ladakh, Svalbard and India. After each expedition I am asking participants to write a short testimonial, below you find a few examples of earlier years.

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 (expedition to Kenya) - 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.

Su Jung – USA (expedition to India) - I had the great pleasure of joining Pie on his expedition to India to visit Kumbh Mela and unwind in Bandhavgarh Tiger Reserve. From arrival to departure, everything felt considered and the best of everything. Pie is a wonderful teacher and guide and makes every effort to make sure you’re well taken care of. 10/10 is his aim and you can feel the attention to all aspects of your experience as part of the group and as an individual. I really enjoyed meeting all the wonderful people that Pie organized. He taught us the first thing about photographing people is to prioritize the encounter. His deep love and respect for people, animals and environment comes through in the experience he curates for you. I felt at ease and very well taken care of in both camps. The best part is that he is so kind and funny, everyone has a great time with Pie! By the end, we were all already dreaming of the next adventure we could go on together!

Tobias - United Kingdom (expedition to Zambia) - 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.

Yofred - USA (expedition to Ladakh) - While this was a photography expedition, it was the conversations we had with the Ladakhi people that made my most memorable highlights. Thanks to Pie’s connections with the Ladakhi community, we had unique access and conversations with many different groups of people. Observing how Pie made meaningful relationships with the monks, nuns, and nomads, all through respectful cultural exchange, was one of the biggest inspirations I came back home with. It was a unique and unforgettable life experience. Watching how the landscapes changed as we drove from mountain passes to deserts to lakes was also a deep visual experience that I’ll remember for a long time.

Sasha – USA (expedition to Kenya) - 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!

Jose – Peru (expedition to Kumbh Mela Festival) - Traveling to the Kumbh Mela Festival in India with Pie has been one of the most incredible experiences in my life. The event itself is magical, a congregation of millions of people full of an unbelievable energy. Pie and his team organized everything in such a way that we could maximize our enjoyment of this once in a lifetime event. The logistics worked flawlessly, but most important, the human qualities of Pie and our guides made us feel at home from the moment we arrived. This was my first time traveling with Pie, but it will certainly not be the last!

Michelle – USA (expedition to Kenya) - 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.

Jill - New Zealand (expedition to Ladakh) - A trip this rich takes a lot of time to fully process in all of the layered and beautiful ways a meaningful experience can have on you. These expeditions are not a ‘holiday’ in the simplest form of the word and yet, I came back feeling so calm, so well rested, and full of the good stuff. I am a novice ‘photographer’ and I felt really supported by the whole group in my practice. The teaching was extremely helpful, and the access to locals and special places was extraordinary. The people and the connections are always first, and the photography second. I love that. We made friends, we had incredible experiences and huge belly laughs together and it’s a trip I’ll never forget. Thank you, Pie.

Macklin- USA (expedition to Ladakh) - Pie’s expedition to Ladakh was one of the peak travel experiences of my life. The level of deep access that we had to the local communities, and the diverse cultures we experienced, were something I had only previously dreamed about. Going on the trip with Pie also felt like being with a lifelong friend. His attention to the details and care for the project, helped me capture the best images of my life. I’m already trying to get a spot on the next one!

Alex – Canada (expedition to Ladakh) - Pie’s Ladakh Expedition was undoubtedly one of the most remarkable travel experiences ever. Our crew was a bunch of adventure junkies like me, so right from the start, we clicked like old friends. The most extraordinary aspect of this expedition was the exclusive access to such unique photographic opportunities. Being able to immerse ourselves in personal and intimate settings with the local people and monks was an incredible privilege. From sipping tea with monks in ancient monasteries to participating in traditional ceremonies, I felt deeply connected to the Ladakhi culture. The landscapes and scenes we encountered were a photographer’s dream, and each moment was a potential work of art. Also, the food and stunning accommodation choices provided by Pie elevated the entire experience, offering comfort and luxury amidst Ladakh’s rugged beauty. This was a truly unforgettable journey, and I am immensely grateful for the memories and lasting friendships it has given me. It’s an experience that I will treasure for a lifetime.

Stanley – USA (expedition to India) - This expedition was one of the greatest adventures I have ever undertaken. Pie and his team did an outstanding job. They were great at explaining that each day was a new adventure and taught us to constantly observe what was going on around you. The accommodations were stellar. I was most struck by the kindness and caregiving that Pie and his team provided for me. I felt acknowledged, listened to, and safe the entire time I was there. I look forward to processing all I saw and experienced.

Yash – India (expedition to Kenya) - 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.

Paola – USA (expedition to Ladakh) - Where to begin? I’ve just returned from what can only be described as a journey of a lifetime. It’s hard to find the right words to capture the profound beauty and experiences I encountered in Ladakh, India. I can honestly say I haven’t stopped smiling since I returned. If I had to rate the entire adventure, without a doubt, it’s a perfect 10. Every aspect of the trip was meticulously planned, leaving no room for disappointment. The places we explored were like something out of a dream, each more breathtaking than the last. The people I met along the way became a part of the unforgettable memories we created together. The accommodations provided were a perfect blend of comfort and immersion in the local culture. It’s rare to find such a balance, and Pie made sure we experienced it firsthand. His attention to detail and commitment to our well-being made every moment of the journey special. What truly sets Pie apart is his contagious energy. It’s a positive force that brought our group together and made every day an adventure to remember. His passion for the region, its culture, and its people is both inspiring and infectious, in the best way possible. Ladakh will forever hold a special place in my heart.

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. 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.

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