LAND: Iceland POTO: Landscape NO. OF DAY: 6 DATE: August 19-23 2026 MIN/MAX PARTICIPANTS: 7-8
I have been to Iceland many times, but I’ve become especially captivated by the Icelandic highlands, which offer incredible photo opportunities – with Landmannalaugar being the crown jewel.
Serkan Günes
Experience the Icelandic Highlands and Their Spectacular Landscapes Together with Serkan Günes – Fujifilm World Ambassador and One of Sweden’s Leading Landscape Photographers
Join us on an unforgettable photographic journey through Iceland’s dramatic and awe-inspiring nature. We’ll travel through the heart of the Icelandic Highlands, where volcanic power and geological diversity have shaped some of the most unique environments on Earth – perfect for landscape photography. During the trip, we will photograph at some of Iceland’s most iconic locations:
Kerlingarfjöll, one of Iceland’s most colorful geothermal areas, where red and golden rhyolite mountains rise from the ground, surrounded by bubbling mud pools and hot springs.
We’ll also visit the Þjórsárdalur Valley, where highlights include the stunning Háifoss waterfall – where the river Fossá plunges into a majestic canyon surrounded by spectacular lava cliffs. Nearby lies Gjáin, a fairytale-like oasis hidden among black lava and moss-covered rocks. Here, brooks flow through lush ravines, and small waterfalls drop into crystal-clear pools – a dream location for nature photography.
One day, we head to Veiðivötn, a region created by a volcanic eruption in 1477, where around fifty lakes sparkle between black volcanic sands and rolling hills. This is a land of striking contrasts – green reeds and yellow flowers set against black lava – a paradise for photographers.
And then, the crown jewel: Landmannalaugar, one of Iceland’s most captivating natural areas. The vibrant rhyolite mountains shift in hues of red, orange, yellow, green, and blue-gray – a visual spectacle that changes constantly with the weather and light. The landscape offers endless opportunities for creative and majestic photography.
On the way back to the airport, we’ll pass through Grindavík, the small coastal town affected by several volcanic eruptions since late 2023. If conditions allow, you’ll have the chance to document the landscape and the raw power of nature on display.
LAND: Iceland POTO: Landscape NO. OF DAY: 6 DATE: August 19-23 2026 MIN/MAX PARTICIPANTS: 7/8
I have been to Iceland many times, but I’ve become especially captivated by the Icelandic highlands, which offer incredible photo opportunities – with Landmannalaugar being the crown jewel.
Serkan Günes
Experience the Icelandic Highlands and Their Spectacular Landscapes Together with Serkan Günes – Fujifilm World Ambassador and One of Sweden’s Leading Landscape Photographers
Join us on an unforgettable photographic journey through Iceland’s dramatic and awe-inspiring nature. We’ll travel through the heart of the Icelandic Highlands, where volcanic power and geological diversity have shaped some of the most unique environments on Earth – perfect for landscape photography. During the trip, we will photograph at some of Iceland’s most iconic locations:
Kerlingarfjöll, one of Iceland’s most colorful geothermal areas, where red and golden rhyolite mountains rise from the ground, surrounded by bubbling mud pools and hot springs.
We’ll also visit the Þjórsárdalur Valley, where highlights include the stunning Háifoss waterfall – where the river Fossá plunges into a majestic canyon surrounded by spectacular lava cliffs. Nearby lies Gjáin, a fairytale-like oasis hidden among black lava and moss-covered rocks. Here, brooks flow through lush ravines, and small waterfalls drop into crystal-clear pools – a dream location for nature photography.
One day, we head to Veiðivötn, a region created by a volcanic eruption in 1477, where around fifty lakes sparkle between black volcanic sands and rolling hills. This is a land of striking contrasts – green reeds and yellow flowers set against black lava – a paradise for photographers.
And then, the crown jewel: Landmannalaugar, one of Iceland’s most captivating natural areas. The vibrant rhyolite mountains shift in hues of red, orange, yellow, green, and blue-gray – a visual spectacle that changes constantly with the weather and light. The landscape offers endless opportunities for creative and majestic photography.
On the way back to the airport, we’ll pass through Grindavík, the small coastal town affected by several volcanic eruptions since late 2023. If conditions allow, you’ll have the chance to document the landscape and the raw power of nature on display.
TRIP HIGHLIGHTS:
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Kerlingarfjöll, one of Iceland’s most colorful geothermal areas.
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The majestic Háifoss waterfall.
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The fairytale-like valley of Gjáin.
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Veiðivötn, with around fifty lakes, black volcanic sand, and rolling hills.
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Landmannalaugar, one of Iceland’s most captivating natural landscapes.
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Grindavík, affected by multiple volcanic eruptions since late 2023.
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Iceland’s stunning nature – with volcanoes, waterfalls, and hot springs.
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Unique and off-the-beaten-path photography locations.
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Bathing in natural hot springs.
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Accompanied throughout the journey by photographer Serkan Günes.
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Lectures, photo editing sessions, and hands-on photography guidance by Serkan Günes.
ICELAND
KERLINGARFJÖLL
In the heart of the Icelandic Highlands rises Kerlingarfjöll – a geothermal mountain range that feels like it belongs to another world. Here, you’re met with dramatic contrasts: steaming hot springs, bubbling mud pools, and smoking ravines, all framed by mountains glowing in shades of rust, gold, white, and green. The constant interaction between the Earth’s inner forces and Iceland’s ever-changing light creates a landscape in flux – offering endless inspiration for photographers. Winding trails lead you through scenes that stay etched in your memory: steam drifting across a ridge in backlight, snowfields blending with hot earth, and color shifts that make every view unique. Kerlingarfjöll isn’t just a place to visit for landscape photographers.
THJORSARDALUR DALEN
Háifoss, meaning “The High Waterfall”, is one of Iceland’s most spectacular waterfalls – both in height and in beauty. Standing at 122 meters, it is one of the tallest waterfalls in the country, dramatically located in a gorge where the river Fossá plunges into a deep ravine with thundering force. The surrounding landscape features rocky plateaus, moss, lava stones, and a vast horizon – a perfect setting for landscape photography.
Not far from Háifoss lies Gjáin, a fairytale-like valley filled with small waterfalls, crystal-clear streams, lava-green mosses, and volcanic rock formations. The area feels like it’s straight out of a fantasy film – and has, in fact, been used as a filming location for Game of Thrones. Here, the water winds gently through the lush terrain, framed by wildflowers and curious stone shapes, offering endless inspiration for nature photography.
VEIÐIVÖTN
For landscape photographers, Veiðivötn feels almost unreal – an untouched and desolate lake region in the heart of the Icelandic Highlands, where raw natural beauty and profound silence create a magical backdrop for photography. Here, a string of deep blue and turquoise crater lakes awaits, surrounded by black volcanic gravel, gentle hills, and muted, earthy tones that allow every shade of light to emerge with striking clarity. The light in Veiðivötn is constantly shifting – from soft, pastel-colored morning light to dramatic shadow play on overcast days. The crystal-clear waters mirror the sky and moving clouds, and the contrasting landscapes offer compositions that are both graphically clean and emotionally powerful.
LANDMANNALAUGAR
Landmannalaugar is one of Iceland’s most unique and breathtaking natural experiences, located in the heart of the Icelandic Highlands, at the southern edge of the mighty Fjallabak mountain range. The area is renowned for its spectacular rhyolite mountains that shimmer in every color of the rainbow – from deep reds and oranges to greens, yellows, and blues. These vivid hues are created by minerals in the volcanic bedrock and shift with the light and weather, making every visit a truly unique experience. Amidst this dramatic landscape stretch vast lava fields, formed by ancient eruptions – including the Laugahraun eruption in 1477. Warm springs and streams flow through the valleys, where visitors can bathe in naturally heated pools surrounded by untouched wilderness.
GRINDAVÍK
Grindavík, in southwest Iceland, was severely affected by a series of volcanic eruptions that began in December 2023 and continued until March 2024, causing extensive damage to both the town and its infrastructure. Seismic activity caused the ground to subside and large cracks to form. Lava quickly surged to the surface, now covering an area of 3.4 km². During the eruptions, several buildings were destroyed, including homes and parts of the town’s infrastructure.
Read more about the places we’ll visit.
READ MORE
Kerlingarfjöll
In the heart of the Icelandic Highlands rises Kerlingarfjöll – a geothermal mountain range that feels like it belongs to another world. Here, you’re met with dramatic contrasts: steaming hot springs, bubbling mud pools, and smoking ravines, all framed by mountains glowing in shades of rust, gold, white, and green. The constant interaction between the Earth’s inner forces and Iceland’s ever-changing light creates a landscape in flux – offering endless inspiration for photographers. Winding trails lead you through scenes that stay etched in your memory: steam drifting across a ridge in backlight, snowfields blending with hot earth, and color shifts that make every view unique. Kerlingarfjöll isn’t just a place to visit for landscape photographers.
THJORSARDALUR DALEN
Háifoss, meaning “The High Waterfall”, is one of Iceland’s most spectacular waterfalls – both in height and in beauty. Standing at 122 meters, it is one of the tallest waterfalls in the country, dramatically located in a gorge where the river Fossá plunges into a deep ravine with thundering force. The surrounding landscape features rocky plateaus, moss, lava stones, and a vast horizon – a perfect setting for landscape photography.
Not far from Háifoss lies Gjáin, a fairytale-like valley filled with small waterfalls, crystal-clear streams, lava-green mosses, and volcanic rock formations. The area feels like it’s straight out of a fantasy film – and has, in fact, been used as a filming location for Game of Thrones. Here, the water winds gently through the lush terrain, framed by wildflowers and curious stone shapes, offering endless inspiration for nature photography.
VEIÐIVÖTN
For landscape photographers, Veiðivötn feels almost unreal – an untouched and desolate lake region in the heart of the Icelandic Highlands, where raw natural beauty and profound silence create a magical backdrop for photography. Here, a string of deep blue and turquoise crater lakes awaits, surrounded by black volcanic gravel, gentle hills, and muted, earthy tones that allow every shade of light to emerge with striking clarity. The light in Veiðivötn is constantly shifting – from soft, pastel-colored morning light to dramatic shadow play on overcast days. The crystal-clear waters mirror the sky and moving clouds, and the contrasting landscapes offer compositions that are both graphically clean and emotionally powerful.
LANDMANNALAUGAR
Landmannalaugar is one of Iceland’s most unique and breathtaking natural experiences, located in the heart of the Icelandic Highlands, at the southern edge of the mighty Fjallabak mountain range. The area is renowned for its spectacular rhyolite mountains that shimmer in every color of the rainbow – from deep reds and oranges to greens, yellows, and blues. These vivid hues are created by minerals in the volcanic bedrock and shift with the light and weather, making every visit a truly unique experience. Amidst this dramatic landscape stretch vast lava fields, formed by ancient eruptions – including the Laugahraun eruption in 1477. Warm springs and streams flow through the valleys, where visitors can bathe in naturally heated pools surrounded by untouched wilderness.
GRINDAVÍK
Grindavík, in southwest Iceland, was severely affected by a series of volcanic eruptions that began in December 2023 and continued until March 2024, causing extensive damage to both the town and its infrastructure. Seismic activity caused the ground to subside and large cracks to form. Lava quickly surged to the surface, now covering an area of 3.4 km². During the eruptions, several buildings were destroyed, including homes and parts of the town’s infrastructure.
ITINERARY
AUGUST 19-23 2026
DAY 1 (August 19) – ARRIVAL – KERLINGARFJÖLL
Meeting point at Keflavík Airport around 11:00 AM – the adventure begins! Our destination for the day is Highland Base, located near Kerlingarfjöll. Along the way, we’ll make a photo stop at the dramatic Brúarhlöð canyon, where the river has sculpted strange formations in the lava rock over thousands of years. Turquoise-green water rushes through narrow passages and beneath natural bridges, surrounded by rounded rock walls, hollows, and pillars – a perfect spot to work with long exposures.
After check-in and dinner, we head into Kerlingarfjöll, one of Iceland’s most spectacular mountain areas. Here, nature’s elements converge: red and golden rhyolite mountains rise dramatically from the earth, steam billows from geothermal vents, and glacial meltwater from Hofsjökull carves deep valleys. Trails wind between bubbling mud pools, steaming fissures, and snow-capped ridges, with colors shifting in the light – from glowing orange to soft greys and mossy greens. A dream destination for landscape photography. (D)
DAY 2 (August 20) – KERLINGARFJÖLL – ÞJÓRSÁRDALUR VALLEY
Early morning shoot in Kerlingarfjöll, capturing the sunrise over red and golden rhyolite peaks and rising geothermal steam. Afterward, we return to the hotel for breakfast and check out.
We then continue across the highlands to the lush Þjórsárdalur Valley, surrounded by lava fields, black sand plains, and snow-capped peaks. The valley features a stunning contrast of frozen volcanic flows and soft meadows.
At its heart lies Háifoss, one of Iceland’s most beautiful waterfalls, plunging 122 meters into a dramatic canyon – truly one of the country’s most photogenic locations.
Later, we visit Gjáin, a magical hidden valley – a green oasis in the midst of the harsh highland terrain. Here, small streams ripple through moss-covered ravines, waterfalls cascade into crystal-clear pools, and the vegetation thrives, sheltered from the wind. The surreal lava formations, quiet pools, and wildflowers give the area an almost otherworldly beauty – it even served as a filming location for Game of Thrones.
We end the day at The Highland Center Hrauneyjar, which will be our base for the remainder of the trip. Dinner is served at the hotel. (B, L, D)
DAY 3 (August 21) – THE LAVA LANDSCAPE OF VEIÐIVÖTN
Today we photograph in the Veiðivötn region – a breathtaking landscape shaped by fire and time. Black volcanic sands and lava fields stretch between open streams and distant mountain ranges. The vibrant contrast of yellow flowers and green reeds emerging from the dark lava makes for stunning images.
The 50 crater lakes here lie in a young valley formed during a 1477 eruption of Bárðarbunga, where a series of craters later filled with water to become what are known as maar lakes. The raw forces of nature meet serene beauty here, making Veiðivötn a perfect spot for landscape photography.
In the evening, we return to Háifoss to capture the waterfall at sunset. (B, L, D)
DAY 4 (August 22) – LANDMANNALAUGAR
Today we head to Landmannalaugar, one of Iceland’s most captivating natural areas, deep in the highlands – a landscape shaped by powerful geological forces that feels almost unreal.
The region is famous for its colorful rhyolite mountains, whose unique mineral content creates a vibrant palette of reds, oranges, yellows, greens, and blue-greys that shimmer in sunlight and shift with the weather. These colorful mountains contrast dramatically with the dark, sprawling Laugahraun lava field, created during a volcanic eruption in the 15th century.
Clear streams flow through the valleys, and steam rises from geothermal vents scattered throughout the area. The name Landmannalaugar means “the people’s hot springs,” and it’s easy to see why.
We end the day’s photo activities with a relaxing soak in a naturally heated stream, surrounded by spectacular views. (B, L, D)
DAY 5 (August 23) – GRINDAVÍK – KEFLAVÍK
After an early breakfast and check-out, we begin our journey back toward Keflavík. We’ll make photo stops along the way if interesting opportunities arise.
Our route takes us through the small coastal town of Grindavík, located just 26 km from the airport. Since late 2023, the area has experienced multiple eruptions, with lava emerging from fissures in the ground and spreading toward the town. Glowing lava fountains shot several meters into the air, covering roads, threatening the town, and leading to evacuations. In Grindavík, we’ll have the opportunity to document the destruction caused by these eruptions and how close the lava came to the buildings – provided the area is open and safe to visit.
Back at the airport, you will check in for your return flight. (B, L)
Read more about the itinerary for our visit to Iceland.
READ MORE
DAG 1, (19/8)
DAY 1 (August 19) – ARRIVAL – KERLINGARFJÖLL
Meeting point at Keflavík Airport around 11:00 AM – the adventure begins! Our destination for the day is Highland Base, located near Kerlingarfjöll. Along the way, we’ll make a photo stop at the dramatic Brúarhlöð canyon, where the river has sculpted strange formations in the lava rock over thousands of years. Turquoise-green water rushes through narrow passages and beneath natural bridges, surrounded by rounded rock walls, hollows, and pillars – a perfect spot to work with long exposures.
After check-in and dinner, we head into Kerlingarfjöll, one of Iceland’s most spectacular mountain areas. Here, nature’s elements converge: red and golden rhyolite mountains rise dramatically from the earth, steam billows from geothermal vents, and glacial meltwater from Hofsjökull carves deep valleys. Trails wind between bubbling mud pools, steaming fissures, and snow-capped ridges, with colors shifting in the light – from glowing orange to soft greys and mossy greens. A dream destination for landscape photography. (D)
DAY 2 (August 20) – KERLINGARFJÖLL – ÞJÓRSÁRDALUR VALLEY
Early morning shoot in Kerlingarfjöll, capturing the sunrise over red and golden rhyolite peaks and rising geothermal steam. Afterward, we return to the hotel for breakfast and check out.
We then continue across the highlands to the lush Þjórsárdalur Valley, surrounded by lava fields, black sand plains, and snow-capped peaks. The valley features a stunning contrast of frozen volcanic flows and soft meadows.
At its heart lies Háifoss, one of Iceland’s most beautiful waterfalls, plunging 122 meters into a dramatic canyon – truly one of the country’s most photogenic locations.
Later, we visit Gjáin, a magical hidden valley – a green oasis in the midst of the harsh highland terrain. Here, small streams ripple through moss-covered ravines, waterfalls cascade into crystal-clear pools, and the vegetation thrives, sheltered from the wind. The surreal lava formations, quiet pools, and wildflowers give the area an almost otherworldly beauty – it even served as a filming location for Game of Thrones.
We end the day at The Highland Center Hrauneyjar, which will be our base for the remainder of the trip. Dinner is served at the hotel. (B, L, D)
DAY 3 (August 21) – THE LAVA LANDSCAPE OF VEIÐIVÖTN
Today we photograph in the Veiðivötn region – a breathtaking landscape shaped by fire and time. Black volcanic sands and lava fields stretch between open streams and distant mountain ranges. The vibrant contrast of yellow flowers and green reeds emerging from the dark lava makes for stunning images.
The 50 crater lakes here lie in a young valley formed during a 1477 eruption of Bárðarbunga, where a series of craters later filled with water to become what are known as maar lakes. The raw forces of nature meet serene beauty here, making Veiðivötn a perfect spot for landscape photography.
In the evening, we return to Háifoss to capture the waterfall at sunset. (B, L, D)
DAY 4 (August 22) – LANDMANNALAUGAR
Today we head to Landmannalaugar, one of Iceland’s most captivating natural areas, deep in the highlands – a landscape shaped by powerful geological forces that feels almost unreal.
The region is famous for its colorful rhyolite mountains, whose unique mineral content creates a vibrant palette of reds, oranges, yellows, greens, and blue-greys that shimmer in sunlight and shift with the weather. These colorful mountains contrast dramatically with the dark, sprawling Laugahraun lava field, created during a volcanic eruption in the 15th century.
Clear streams flow through the valleys, and steam rises from geothermal vents scattered throughout the area. The name Landmannalaugar means “the people’s hot springs,” and it’s easy to see why.
We end the day’s photo activities with a relaxing soak in a naturally heated stream, surrounded by spectacular views. (B, L, D)
DAY 5 (August 23) – GRINDAVÍK – KEFLAVÍK
After an early breakfast and check-out, we begin our journey back toward Keflavík. We’ll make photo stops along the way if interesting opportunities arise.
Our route takes us through the small coastal town of Grindavík, located just 26 km from the airport. Since late 2023, the area has experienced multiple eruptions, with lava emerging from fissures in the ground and spreading toward the town. Glowing lava fountains shot several meters into the air, covering roads, threatening the town, and leading to evacuations. In Grindavík, we’ll have the opportunity to document the destruction caused by these eruptions and how close the lava came to the buildings – provided the area is open and safe to visit.
Back at the airport, you will check in for your return flight on your own. (B, L)
PHOTOGRAPHER
SERKAN GÜNES – Landscape photographer
Serkan Günes was born in Istanbul but lived in Stockholm until 2015, when he moved north to Gällivare in Swedish Lapland. Serkan is a landscape photographer with nature as his constant subject. He captures the diversity of natural landscapes – both grand vistas and intimate details. His images are characterized by a meticulous approach to light, which has become his signature style.
Serkan is the first Swede to win the prestigious “Eric Hosking Award”, presented annually by BBC Wildlife and the Natural History Museum in London. In 2009, he was named Nature Photographer of the Year by the Swedish Environmental Protection Agency, and his work is regularly published across Europe.
More information: www.serkangunes.com
Serkan Günes is an award-winning landscape photographer.
READ MORE
Serkan Günes was born in Istanbul but lived in Stockholm until 2015, when he moved north to Gällivare in Swedish Lapland. Serkan is a landscape photographer with nature as his constant subject. He captures the diversity of natural landscapes – both grand vistas and intimate details. His images are characterized by a meticulous approach to light, which has become his signature style.
Serkan is the first Swede to win the prestigious “Eric Hosking Award”, presented annually by BBC Wildlife and the Natural History Museum in London. In 2009, he was named Nature Photographer of the Year by the Swedish Environmental Protection Agency, and his work is regularly published across Europe.
More information: www.serkangunes.com
HOTEL
PRICE, FACTS & BOOKING
PRICE
Price per person: USD 3.600
The price includes:
- A five-day trip led by Serkan Günes.
- Transportation according to the itinerary.
- Accommodation in shared twin rooms.
- Meals as specified in the program (F = Breakfast, L = Lunch, M = Dinner).
- Daily photography activities led by Serkan Günes.
- Workshops and lectures by Serkan Günes during the trip.
- Participation of a host from Zoom Photo Tours.
- Hotel and other local taxes and fees.
- Practical travel information.
The price does not include:
- Transportation to Iceland.
- Single room supplement: USD 990.
- Personal expenses such as drinks, etc.
- Cancellation protection/travel insurance. For more information, please visit our website under “Miscellaneous.”
TRANSPORT
Transportation to Iceland is arranged individually. You should not arrive at Keflavik later than 11:00 AM on August 19th and should not book your return flight earlier than 4:00 PM on August 23rd.
If you would like assistance with accommodation the night before or help with booking flights, we are more than happy to assist. Please let us know when you make your booking, feel free to call us at +46 70 180 90 00, or send us a email at info@zoomphototours.com,
FACTS
Target group: Photographers interested in landscape photography.
Minimum/maximum participants: 8 / 12
Other: For more information about Zoom Photo Tours, terms and conditions, etc., please visit our website under “Miscellaneous.”
CAMERA EQUIPMENT
- Camera with lenses ranging from wide-angle to medium telephoto.
- A tripod.
- Extra batteries, as charging opportunities may be limited.
- Battery charger for the camera and other electronic equipment.
- Memory cards as needed.
- A camera bag that can hold your equipment and a packed lunch.
- A laptop with either Photoshop or Lightroom installed.
BOOKING
You can book your participation by clicking the button below. You are also welcome to call us at +46 70 180 90 99 or email us at info@zoomphototours.com.
Foto: Serkan Günes & Hans Elmqvist
NYHETSBREV
Bli först med att höra om nya resor, erbjudanden och reseinspiration från Zoom.
KONTAKTA OSS
E-post: info@zoomfotoresor.se
Telefon: +46 (0)470 – 466 40
Följ våra fotoäventyr på sociala medier!
NYHETSBREV
Bli först med att höra om nya resor, erbjudanden och reseinspiration från Zoom.
KONTAKTA OSS
E-post: info@zoomfotoresor.se
Telefon: +46(0) 470 – 466 40
Följ våra fotoäventyr på sociala medier!
Foto: Hans Strand