RUN ICELAND FAQS
Why here?
Iceland holds near-mythical status in the minds of many, and for good reason - it is truly unlike any other place on Earth. The landscape is an unbelievable tapestry of volcanoes, rivers, rugged coastlines, and geothermal activity, the weather is wildly invigorating and the 300,000 people who comprise this small nation are known for extending the warmest of welcomes to all who visit. For the trail runner and outdoor adventure seeker, there is simply nothing that compares!
What’s included in the trip cost?
The trip price includes pre-trip communication & guidance, 7 nights accommodation, all meals from dinner on the first day until breakfast on the final day, on-trip transportation, drivers, experienced trip leaders, local logistics team, 7 organized runs, all entry fees to pools/hot springs/museums, ferry tickets, guided glacial snowmobiling and Rogue Expeditions swag. In short, just about everything is covered from the moment you land until the moment you leave!
What isn’t included in the trip cost?
The cost does not include your flight, airport transfers (it’s much more affordable and convenient to utilize the Flybus - we’ll provide detailed guidance to all registered participants!), alcohol, tips or personal purchases.
How far do I have to be able to run?
Multiple distance options will be offered each day, and plans will be tweaked according to the ability mix of the group. Daily maximums are listed on the itinerary and there is no time or pace pressure. We will take it day by day and clearly explain each run as they come along so you can adjust to suit your needs!
While this is not a particularly high-mileage trip, the terrain, the weather and the views combine to create big experiences with every run!
What sort of terrain will we be running on?
Most runs feature a mix of single track trails and dirt/gravel roads. There is not too much technicality, but the best views are always somewhere up above - work on those hill skills! While trail running experience is not required, we strongly encourage everyone to spend some time off-road in preparation.
What time of day will we be running?
Most days we will run mid-morning (after breakfast and before lunch), though we will have an arrival day evening shakeout. However, weather conditions or logistical considerations could always cause the schedule to shift, so please show up with an adaptable, adventurous attitude. The key is to just relax and roll with it – it’s not about “getting it in,” but rather about exploring a brand new place each day!
What will we do when we aren’t running?
There are lots of additional activities packed into this one including several (okay, a lot of) visits to hot springs and public swimming pools (this is a core tenet of Icelandic culture), a guided glacial snowmobiling experience, a boat trip to the Westmann Islands and plenty of sightseeing stops - think waterfalls, geysers and bubbling mud amongst other geological wonders!
What is the accommodation like?
Over the course of the 7 nights we’ll stay at four different boutique lodges and guesthouses, all with warm, modern rooms, cozy gathering space, hearty breakfasts and welcoming staff on offer.
What is the weather like?
Iceland in August is marked by long days and short nights. We will have daylight for over 16 hours a day, giving us plenty of time to explore! However, this is Iceland - you are just as likely to see rainy, 40F temps as you are warm sunshine*. Layers and waterproof rain gear are key - a full packing list is provided upon registration!
*note: a “warm” summer day will rarely exceed 65-70F / 18-21C
Can I have my own room at hotels?
Due to the small size of the accommodations that we use, we can’t guarantee private rooms and you should expect double occupancy rooms; solo travelers will be placed with a same-sex roommate. Once the group is set (3 months from departure) there may be an opportunity for a limited number of single rooms; you can indicate interest when you sign up, and we will offer them in the order in which you registered.
What sort of food will we be eating?
Breakfasts will be at the lodges and will serve hearty cooked and continental style breakfasts that cater to all tastes. We will be picking some great lunch and dinner spots to highlight the best of Icelandic cuisine, from fresh local seafood to hearty lamb dishes. Some days we will bring a picnic lunch to have post-run if we’re in a remote area, and there will always be vegetarian and vegan options. Most places will have fairly typical international menus as well as local options and they are very used to catering to the needs of visiting tourists!
What sort of vehicles will we be traveling in?
We will travel in a comfortable air-conditioned bus driven by a professional local tourism driver.
What should I pack?
We’ll provide a detailed packing list after you sign up, but do note that trail shoes, a hydration pack with at least 1.5L water storage + room for extra layers/snacks and waterproof rain gear is required!
What time should my flights be?
Your flight should arrive in Reykjavik no later than 9am on the first day (most flights arrive early morning!). This allows time for immigration, baggage claim and the one hour Flybus journey to downtown Reykjavik, where you’ll meet your guides and the rest of the group at 1pm for transfer to our hotel. If you choose to arrive a day early, we recommend staying downtown - this will make it very easy to meet up with the group on arrival day!
The group meetup is at the BSI Bus Station, which has luggage storage should you arrive early and want to explore town.
Departure flights on the final day should be no earlier than 9:30am.
How much should I tip?
Your entire trip will be spent with drivers and guides who will go above and beyond to create an unforgettable experience for everyone. Although tips are never expected, they are always appreciated and completely at your discretion. Any group gratuities will be split evenly amongst the team.
If I change my mind or something comes up, can I cancel?
We know that life happens, and on occasion a participant will have to back out of a trip. As most of our costs are paid well in advance, we have set a cancellation policy that applies to all trips. Travel insurance is highly recommended to cover potential cancellations on your part.
If you cancel:
Within 30 days of signup: Full refund
90+ days from the trip start date (but after the 30 day grace period): Deposits are non-refundable
61-90 days from the trip start date: 50% of total payment refunded**
60 days or less from the trip start date: No refunds
**This only applies to participants who have paid their balances on time. If you do not pay the balance by the due date and cancel after the fact, your deposit is non-refundable.
Can I switch to another trip?
If you wish to transfer your deposit from one trip to another you must notify us at least 120 days prior to your original departure date. A fee of $150 per person will apply and will be deducted from your original deposit. If you notify us less than 120 days prior to the proposed departure date the refund policy applicable to cancellations will apply. If you switch within 30 days of your initial registration then no fee applies. Please note that deposits can only be transferred once and can only be applied towards a trip departing within 12 months of your original departure date.
What if Rogue Expeditions cancels the trip?
Prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, we had never cancelled a trip and we hope that going forward we never have to again. But, it is a possibility and here is what happens if it happens:
If we cancel a trip due to low participant numbers, you will be notified no later than 60 days prior to departure and will receive the option of a full refund or transfer to an alternate trip.
If a trip is cancelled at the last minute due to external events outside our reasonable control (natural disasters, terrorism, etc) we will issue full refunds less any unrecoverable costs. This type of scenario is unlikely but always a possibility - get that travel insurance!
You can check out the full Booking Terms & Conditions here.
Let this serve as a reminder: get that travel insurance!
How do I sign up?
You will find the Sign Up button on the Run Iceland Details page as soon as registration is open. A $600 deposit will reserve your spot, and balances are due three months prior to departure. As soon as you register you’ll receive a link to the packing list, destination info, guide contacts and more, then your guide will begin direct group communication about 4 months out. Spots are first come-first serve, so don’t wait!
I have more questions!
Feel free to send them over to allison@roguexpeditions.com!