Icelandic Cooking Lesson

Traditional Icelandic cooking is deeply rooted in the country's harsh climate and rugged terrain, relying heavily on preservation techniques and locally sourced ingredients. One of the most iconic dishes is hákarl, or fermented shark, which is prepared by burying shark meat underground for several months to ferment. Another traditional favorite is hangikjöt, smoked lamb that is hung to dry after being smoked over a fire, resulting in a tender and flavorful meat. Rúgbrauð, a dense and sweet rye bread, is another staple, often baked in the ground using the natural geothermal heat. Fish also plays a prominent role, with dishes like plokkfiskur, a creamy fish stew, and harðfiskur, dried fish jerky, being popular choices. Despite the challenging conditions, traditional Icelandic cuisine reflects a rich culinary heritage that has sustained the Icelandic people for generations.

Cost of this optional cooking lesson learning to make traditional Icelandic dishes is $237.97 per person.

Whale Watching

Whale watching in Iceland is a popular and unforgettable experience, offering the chance to witness these majestic creatures in their natural habitat. The waters around Iceland are rich in marine life, making it an ideal destination for whale watching. The most commonly spotted species include humpback whales, minke whales, and orcas, among others. Many tour operators offer excursions from various harbors around the country, providing visitors with the opportunity to see these magnificent animals up close. In addition to whales, it's also possible to encounter other marine life, such as dolphins and porpoises, making each whale watching trip a unique and memorable adventure.

Cost of this whale watching excursion is $147.97 per person.

Blue Lagoon

The Blue Lagoon is one of Iceland’s most popular attractions, and it’s little wonder as to why. The beautiful milky-blue water is unlike anything else found on earth and makes a stark contrast to the surrounding black lava fields and creeping grey moss. The water sits at 39°C (102°F) year-round, making it the perfect bathing temperature. The lagoon is on the Reykjanes Peninsula in southwest Iceland, a region renowned for its barren landscapes and cone-shaped volcanoes. Due to its excellent location, soothing waters, and rich skin nourishment, the Blue Lagoon quickly became Iceland’s most visited attraction, rivaled only by the Golden Circle sightseeing route.

Cost of this optional experience at the thermal mineral waters of the Blue Lagoon is $137.97 per person.

Elaine Edwards, Coronado, California - "The crafters were amazing warm wonderful people and very talented. The local guide was very knowledgeable about geography and the history of the country. The hotel staff was very accommodating and the location was perfect."

Kathie Vaughn, Carmichael, California - "This is my second tour and I have enjoyed both experiences immensely. Craftours is a new way to travel and a unique way to craft. A true adventure in 5-star, craft-oriented, culturally enhanced small group travel. I'm a fan!"

Jo Ann Dickerson, Wichita, Kansas - "Very good tour thanks to our local guide & travel manager."

Dorothy Rezac , Prairie Village, KS- "The tour was excellent. It was so refreshing to see so many beautiful sites and to hear how progressive the country is. The photographic insight and tips were helpful even to me as a novice."

Susan Downing , Lake Villa, IL- "The country is beautiful, the picture that can be captured don’t do it justice!"

Kathy Durance, Sooke, Canada - “Amazing trip. A nice blend of specialty (knitting) & traditional ‘normal’ tourist excursions.”

Angela Jenkins, Midlothian, VA - “Overall, the trip was wonderful. I met a number of great people and Iceland is the most beautiful place I have ever traveled.”

Debbie Floyd, Midlothian, VA - “This was my first Craftours experience and my first trip to Iceland. Iceland has been on my bucket list, and to combine my first trip with an emphasis on my craft was very memorable.”

Kelly Mathern, Manakin Sabot, VA - “A great way to see Iceland and learn about the fiber industry.”