What to Expect on a Custom Day Tour with East Highlanders
- Elí Þór Vídó Gunnarsson
- 12 hours ago
- 3 min read
Sometimes, a traveler knows exactly what they want to see. Other times, they just know they want the day to be theirs — unhurried, thoughtful, and shaped around what matters most to them.
That’s where our custom private tours come in.
At East Highlanders, we offer pre-planned day tours to some of our favorite places in East Iceland — but we also create tailored experiences for guests who want something a little more personal. Whether you have a destination in mind or just a feeling you’re chasing, we’re here to make it happen.
Here’s what a custom day tour with us actually looks like — and why it might be exactly the kind of travel experience you didn’t know you needed.
It Starts With a Conversation
When someone reaches out for a custom tour, we begin by asking one simple question:Is there anywhere you already know you want to go?
If you’re not sure, that’s fine too. We’ll ask about your interests — whether it’s nature, wildlife, photography, history, or local stories — and help shape the day around that. We’ll also ask about physical ability (how much walking or hiking you’re comfortable with), what kind of pace you enjoy, and if there’s anything specific you’re curious about.
It’s not a form to fill out. It’s a back-and-forth — because that’s how real travel planning should feel.
It’s Not Just a Random Drive
One thing we always clarify: a custom tour doesn’t mean “we’ll figure it out on the way.”
We prepare a route and rough plan in advance, based on what we’ve discussed. That means you can relax knowing your guide has a thoughtful itinerary designed just for you — but also the freedom to adjust if something magical comes up.
Sometimes we find reindeer on a detour. Sometimes the clouds part at the perfect moment for a viewpoint. Sometimes we add a stop you didn’t expect — just because we know you’ll love it.
That’s the difference: freedom with intention.
One Memorable Custom Tour
This past winter, we had the joy of creating a multi-day custom tour for a guest from Australia — a 73-year-old solo traveler who wanted to see as much of East Iceland as she could, but at her own pace.
We planned her itinerary carefully, taking into account weather, daylight hours, and her energy level. Over several days, we showed her waterfalls, valleys, frozen rivers, quiet villages, and even a few hidden spots that aren’t on any map.
She told us afterward that it was one of the most meaningful trips she’d ever taken — and that’s exactly the kind of experience we aim for.
What Guests Say at the End of the Day
After a custom tour, guests often say something like:“I can’t believe we actually did everything I was hoping for — and more.”
Because when you travel with a guide who knows the region deeply — and who’s listening closely to what you want — your day isn’t just well spent. It’s well remembered.
Is a Custom Tour Right for You?
If you’re the kind of traveler who likes to feel involved, understood, and flexible, a custom tour is likely a perfect fit.
You don’t need to know the names of the mountains or plan every stop. You just need to know how you want to feel: inspired, relaxed, curious, connected.
We’ll take it from there.
Ready to build your own day in East Iceland? Contact us and let’s start planning your custom experience.