My Iceland Adventure: From Icebergs to Icelandic Horses + How You Can Join the Fun!
A couple of weeks ago, I had the trip of a lifetime: a visit to Iceland! It was everything I didn’t know I needed and more. The landscapes, the wildlife, the peaceful yet powerful nature of the place — it was unlike anything I’ve ever experienced. If you’ve been following along on Instagram, you’ve probably seen a few of the shots I shared. But if you missed it, no worries! Check out the hashtag #AdventureStartsWithMe on Instagram for incredible photos from my fellow bloggers who were on the trip with me.
Why the Hashtag?
Our trip to Iceland was made possible by Animal Jam and Visit Iceland. If you’re wondering why an online kids’ game would send a group of bloggers to one of the most remote and stunning places on Earth, here’s why: Moms are role models for their children. We have a massive impact on how they see and interact with the world around them. When we encourage our kids to step outside, explore, and embrace the wonders of nature, we’re teaching them how to be curious and passionate about life.
And the best part? You don’t need to spend a ton of money to spark curiosity in your kids. The simplest adventures, like hiking, camping, or even just exploring a local park, can foster a sense of discovery. We’d love to see how you’re inspiring your children to seek adventure and connect with nature. Add your photos to the #AdventureStartsWithMe hashtag on Instagram and join us on this journey!
Why Animal Jam?
Animal Jam is an online game designed for kids that’s all about animals, nature, and learning. But it’s not just about playing a game — it’s about inspiring children to dive deeper into the natural world, both online and offline. Through the game, kids get to explore different animal habitats, learn fun facts about the animals they encounter, and even chat with real-life scientists! It’s an engaging way to introduce STEM education in a fun and accessible way.
Why Iceland?
Iceland is one of the most captivating places on Earth. It’s full of dramatic landscapes, volcanoes, glaciers, and more — making it the perfect destination for adventure. Whether you’re exploring volcanic craters, soaking in geothermal hot springs, or chasing the Northern Lights, Iceland has something to offer every explorer. I’ll give you a peek into what we did, and hopefully, it’ll inspire your next getaway!
Our Iceland Adventure Itinerary:
Day 1: Reykjavik
- Arrive in Iceland via Wow Air!
- Stay at the Icelandair Hotel Reykjavik Marina (and take a well-deserved nap after your flight!)
- Tour Whales of Iceland: A fascinating museum showcasing the incredible marine life of the region.
- Relax at the Blue Lagoon: Soak in the therapeutic waters while enjoying the stunning volcanic landscape.
- Dinner at the Seafood Grill: Try Icelandic delicacies like fresh fish and lobster.
- Explore Reykjavik: From quirky shops to stunning street art, there’s so much to discover in this charming capital city.
Day 2: Head West
- Stay at Hotel Husafell: A cozy base for exploring the surrounding natural wonders.
- Try Icelandic horse riding at Oddsstaoir: Icelandic horses are unique in their look and gait. It was one of my favorite experiences!
- Visit the Icelandic Goat Center: Learn about Iceland’s beloved goats and their role in local culture.
- Explore a Glacier: Iceland’s glaciers are simply mesmerizing — and a must-see!
Day 3: North Iceland
- Visit the Icelandic Seal Centre: This interactive center allows you to learn about the seals that call Iceland home.
- Lunch at Sjavaborg: Delicious seafood with a stunning view of the ocean.
- Seal Spotting: We went out on a boat and saw seals lounging on the rocks — such a magical experience!
- Stay at Heydalur: This remote location is perfect for stargazing and possibly catching the Northern Lights.
Day 4: Arctic Adventure
- Drive to Suovik: Explore the rugged terrain of Iceland’s northern coastline.
- Visit the Arctic Fox Centre: This research center is dedicated to preserving the Arctic fox population.
- Lunch at Braeoaraborg: Traditional Icelandic comfort food.
- Sailing with Borea Adventures: Sail around the fjords and enjoy Iceland’s pristine beauty.
- Stay at Hotel Isafjordur: A charming hotel with an amazing seafood restaurant.
Day 5: Horse Farm & Culture
- Visit Gauksmyri Horse Farm: Icelandic horses are so much more than a ride — they’re part of the culture, and this farm gives you a firsthand look at them.
- Attend the Horse Show: See Icelandic horses in action with their signature gait.
- Dinner on the farm: Enjoy a hearty meal and feel the farm life vibe.
Day 6: Back to Reykjavik
- Return to Reykjavik: We wrapped up our trip with a drive back to the capital, reflecting on all the memories made. Then it was time to catch our flight home.
A Big Thank You to Grayline and Our Awesome Guide, Ingi!
We did a lot of driving and exploring, and we couldn’t have done it without Grayline and our incredible guide, Ingi. If you’re planning to visit Iceland, I can’t recommend them enough. Their knowledge and passion for Iceland’s culture and nature made the experience even more memorable.
Enter to Win: Your Own Adventure!
Feeling inspired? I’ve got an exciting giveaway just for you! One lucky winner will get:
- 2 Round Trip Tickets from WOW Air (Time to start planning your own Icelandic adventure!)
- A Gregory Backpack for all your outdoor adventures.
- $2000 from Animal Jam to help with accommodations and travel expenses.
- And so much more!
It’s the perfect opportunity to embark on your own family adventure to Iceland (or anywhere else your heart desires)!
About Animal Jam:
Animal Jam isn’t just about playing a game — it’s about sparking curiosity and fostering a love for nature. The game lets kids create animal characters, customize their dens, and embark on exciting missions. They’ll also learn about animal conservation and environmental science, all while having fun. Join the community at animaljam.com for free!
Whether you’re looking to plan your own Icelandic journey, inspire your kids to explore the world, or join our adventure on Instagram, there’s so much to discover. Don’t forget to tag your adventure photos with #AdventureStartsWithMe — we can’t wait to see how you’re inspiring curiosity in your kids!