WILD ICELAND
Join Dani and David Gibbon for a 6-day Arctic photography adventure in Hornstrandir Nature Reserve, Iceland.
Capture the rare beauty of the blue morph Arctic fox against the stunning winter backdrop of Iceland's untouched wilderness. Experience unparalleled photographic opportunities and guidance in an intimate group setting.
February 22-27 2026
Let’s find the mysterious blue morph arctic foxes!
Join me and co-leader David Gibbon for an unforgettable photography expedition to the remote Hornstrandir Nature Reserve. Capture stunning images of Arctic foxes with their thick winter coats in a dramatic Icelandic landscape. This adventure provides unparalleled access to these protected animals in one of the most pristine regions of Iceland.
David, the owner of Wild Lens Nature Tours and an experienced Arctic wildlife photographer, brings a wealth of knowledge and passion to the journey. Our team, including an expert guide and Icelandic chef, ensures your comfort with delicious meals and a cozy lodge. This exclusive tour, limited to 5 guests, is perfect for photographers seeking a personalised and inspiring experience.
Any questions? Please feel free to send me or David an email.
Best wishes,
Dani
David Gibbon: david@wildlensnature.tours
Trip Overview
Dates: 22-27 February 2026
Led By: David Gibbon & Dani Connor
Group Size: 5 guests
Fitness Needed: Adequate fitness required as we need to get off zodiacs and walk in snow.
Temperatures Expected: 0C to -10C
Wildlife Photography Adventure: Arctic Foxes in Hornstrandir
Experience the Untamed Beauty of Iceland’s Arctic Foxes
Embark on an unforgettable 6-day wildlife photography journey to the pristine landscapes of Hornstrandir Nature Reserve. This winter expedition offers you the opportunity to capture stunning images of Arctic foxes at their most magnificent, with thick winter coats that glisten in the snow and dramatic northern lights as your backdrop.
Tour Highlights:
6 days of immersive photography in the heart of Hornstrandir’s wilderness.
2 nights in the West Fjords with delicious meals included.
Boat transfer to Hornvik, the entryway to a photographer’s paradise.
Private lodge accommodation with all meals prepared by a skilled Icelandic chef.
Small group size – limited to only 5 guests for a tailored, personal experience.
Guided by experts, with a knowledgeable guide ensuring your comfort, safety, and a seamless experience.
A Photographer’s Dream: You’re in control of your time in Hornstrandir, we aim to photograph arctic foxes who we will likely have encounters with everyday, but we can also photograph wintery landscapes and northern lights.
The Arctic fox, Iceland’s only native land mammal, has thrived in this region for over 12,000 years, protected from hunting and human interference.
Hornstrandir boasts the highest density of Arctic foxes in the world, and these captivating creatures are notably relaxed around humans. You’ll have unparalleled access to photograph their natural behavior—playing, hunting, and surviving amidst the harsh North Atlantic climate. Both the white and more common blue morphs can be seen here, adding to the diversity of your shots.
Comfort in the Wild: Enjoy the coziness of our private lodge, where made-up beds and hearty Icelandic meals await you. The experienced chef will prepare delicious food, allowing you to focus solely on your photography.
Chase the Northern Lights: Hornvik’s expansive, pollution-free skies make it an exceptional location for photographing the northern lights. With no city glow to interfere, you’ll capture the full majesty of the aurora borealis in this remote Arctic wonderland.
Itinerary
Detailed Itinerary:
Feb 20: Arrive in Iceland and stay overnight in Reykjavik, Iceland’s capital.
Feb 21: Fly from Reykjavik to Ísafjörður. Guests will stay in a guesthouse and enjoy a group dinner.
Feb 22: Depart for Hornvik. Begin the photography expedition and stay in a private lodge in Hornstrandir from Feb 22-27.
Feb 27: Return to Ísafjörður, stay overnight in a guesthouse, and enjoy a final group dinner.
Feb 28: Fly back to Reykjavik.
Arcticum vulpes, The Arctic Fox
Arctic Foxes of Hornstrandir: The Arctic foxes in Hornstrandir are an extraordinary sight, adapted perfectly to their harsh environment. These foxes typically weigh between 3 and 5 kg and measure up to 55 cm in length, with a bushy tail adding an additional 30 cm. Their lifespan in the wild averages around 3 to 6 years. Protected from hunting within the Hornstrandir Nature Reserve, these resilient creatures thrive in one of the world’s most remote regions. Most foxes in the area are black morphs—an evolutionary trait linked to their foraging habits along the coast, where their darker coats offer better camouflage against the rocky shores. Survival in this unforgiving climate depends on their remarkable adaptability; they scavenge and hunt for seabirds, fish, and carrion, enduring freezing temperatures and severe weather with their dense, insulating fur.
Accommodation in the most remote area of Iceland
Situated on the coast of Hornstrandir Nature Reserve, the accommodation at Hornvik provides a cozy, warm, and authentic retreat. While it offers basic amenities, the lodge is designed to be a welcoming haven where you can rest comfortably after a day immersed in the Arctic wilderness. The rustic charm of the space enhances the experience, allowing you to fully embrace the raw beauty of your surroundings while enjoying hearty, home-cooked meals. This simple yet inviting setting ensures that you are well-rested and prepared for the unique photographic opportunities each day brings.
What’s included and what’s not?
Included:
Once you arrive at Ísafjörður, everything is included.
Guest house in Ísafjörður and evening meal
Boat transfer to and from Hornstrandir Nature Reserve
All meals during your stay in Hornvik
Lodge accommodation with made-up beds
Services of an expert guide and Icelandic cook
Photography tuition and presentations
Goodiebag!
Not Included:
Accommodation at Reykjavik (we recommend arriving on the 20th February)
Internal flight from Reykjavik to Ísafjörður (21 February).
Return flight/ accommodation after photography excursion.
Alcoholic beverages
Personal insurance
International flights
Capture the spirit of the Arctic fox and witness the serene beauty of Iceland’s remote Hornstrandir nature reserve. Contact David now to reserve your spot. david@wildlensnature.tours
The full cost of this trip is £4250 GBP per person.