Climate
Due to the Gulf Stream Iceland enjoys a relatively mild climate. July and August are generally the warmest months, with an average temperature of 6 – 12°C, although temperatures in excess of 20°C are not uncommon. From mid-May to late July Iceland enjoys 24 hours of daylight. Summer is however Iceland’s peak season making it a more expensive and busy time to visit. Iceland is also an ideal winter destination where temperatures are mostly between -5°C and 5°C. Because Iceland is sub-Arctic there are no polar nights and even in December there are four to five hours of daylight. October and February – April are popular times to visit for education groups where day light hours range from 8 – 16 hours. Availability is often much better during this period, rates are more competitive and it is a great time to see the Northern Lights.

Time Zone
Iceland’s standard time is 0 – 1 hour behind the UK, depending on our daylight saving hours.

Currency
Iceland’s currency is the Icelandic Krona. ATMs are common throughout Iceland and credit cards are widely accepted. Travellers cheques are generally easy to change, but can incur larger commissions than plastic.

Visa Requirements
Visas are not required by EU passport holders – visitors should have a passport with at least three months validity remaining, plus plenty of spare pages.

Medical Information
Citizens of the EU receive free or reduced-cost state-provided health care cover with the European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) for medical treatment that becomes necessary while in Iceland. Please note that carrying the EHIC card does not negate the need for fully comprehensive travel insurance.
You should contact your GP around 8 weeks prior to travel to check whether you need any vaccinations or other preventative measures. The Foreign Commonwealth Office and NHS Fit For Travelwebsites also carry up-to-date medical information.

Insurance
We can arrange Discover the World insurance which covers you for any activity included in your itinerary. Please refer to your price guidelines for the current costs. If you choose not to take our insurance please ensure you notify us of your insurance company, your policy number and 24 hour contact number. We advise taking out insurance when you pay your first non-refundable deposit.

Icelandic Etiquette
A shyness towards foreigners maybe mistaken for coldness, though the Icelanders are by nature welcoming and hospitable to visitors, if a little curious as to what brings them to Iceland.

Emergency Services
The emergency services contact number in Iceland is 112.