Uncomfortable Iceland — Alternative History Tour
from $52.13
Free cancellation up to 24 hours before
Overview
Iceland has a great story. Brave settlers, honest politics, a beacon of equality, innocent people living with dramatic nature. Every other tour in Reykjavík will be happy to tell you that story.
This is not that tour.
Uncomfortable Iceland is a history walk through central Reykjavík for those who want to understand the real history behind Iceland’s carefully curated national identity. Led by a local professional historian and experienced storyteller, this walk systematically picks apart the myths, half-truths and deliberate silences that make up the official version of Icelandic history.
No prior knowledge of Icelandic history is required. You just need to be curious and open to having your assumptions challenged. Your guide will lead you through the context of each story before revealing how and why it has been distorted, suppressed or simply never told.
2 hours 30 minutes
Meet at the start point (no pickup)
Our meeting point is by the statue of Ingólfur Arnarson on Arnarhóll, in the center of Reykjavík. The statue is easily visible from Lækjargata. Look for the Uncomfortable Iceland logo. Please arrive 5 minutes before your scheduled start time.
Itinerary
- 1Stop
Meet Iceland's most famous Viking. The story we tell about him — and the story we don't.
- 2Stop
Iceland became a global symbol of standing up to the banks in 2008. The myth is inspiring but the reality is much more uncomfortable.
- 3Old Harbour
Jewish refugees turned away and state sponsored racism. The Icelanders who collaborated with the Nazis — and the government that brought them home. Whaling and fishing. Iceland's most contentious industry and one of its most complicated history.
- 4Stop
Faith, power and the criminalisation of desire. From the Lutheran Reformation to modern scandals. Church and state is not a simple story here.
- 5Austurvollur Square
Iceland was a Danish colony. But the story Icelanders tell about that relationship is more complicated than victimhood.
- 6Hljomskalagarour Park
Meet one of the most famous Icelanders you've never heard of. His sculptures are in the world's greatest museums. Iceland hid him in a park corner.
- 7Stop
The myth of Iceland as a paradise of equality.
What's included
- Gratuities
Good to know
- Wheelchair accessible
- Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
- Service animals allowed
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
- All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
