Profile photo for Silvía Ástvaldsdóttir
1836 messages
active 2 hours ago

Silvía Ástvaldsdóttir

Swedish educated business developer, specializing in tourism.
A storyteller born and raised in Iceland, mostly on the East fjords.
I have been exploring cultural differences in Nordic countries for the past years.

I recommend watching: Ari Eldjárn - Pardon My Icelandic, before visiting Iceland and the Nordic countries, if you enjoy exploring cultural differences as well as having a great laugh!

I believe a great experience is created using as many of our senses as we can. So don't forget to look out the window, smell the air and taste something new like Hákarl or Flatbread with smoked lamb when in Iceland, to create the most memorable experiences.

What places and activities do you specialize in?

"I specialize in creating an adventure tailored to the customer's desires.
Iceland's East fjords, Skåne in Sweden and Copenhagen in Denmark are all places I have called home.

I aim to share some of my love for the Nordic countries and hopefully, you will love them as well!"

How did you get involved in travel?

"I started working in hotels in the East fjords, when I was 14 years old and my passion for tourism started there.

I have met tourists from all over the world, with all sorts of cultural differences, some that didn't know about the rules of wearing swimwear, while bathing in Iceland, which there is in most of the Nordic Countries so please remember to bring that with you as well."

Please share a unique travel experience you will never forget.

"Witnessing the volcanic eruption in Geldingadalir 2021 was fantastic!
The heat, the smell, the sceneries, the hike, it was a great experience altogether."

Silvía is part of the following groups: Iceland Travel Agents, Sweden Travel Agents
Highlights of the Icelandic Eastfjords
Highlights of the Icelandic East Fjords

In Iceland’s East Fjords, you’ll find many peaceful fjords, small fishing villages, and scenic trails tucked away in the hollow of towering mountains. Often overshadowed by more hyped, nearby attractions like the Glacier Lagoon and Myvatn Lake, make no mistake--the East Fjords are definitely worth a few days' trip. Day excursions will take you hiking past waterfalls, kayaking through the fjords, or exploring emerald ponds.

Northern Lights
Chasing the Northern Lights in South Iceland - 4 Days

Check the spectacular Northern Lights off your bucket list with this quick-hit trip to southern Iceland. In addition to nighttime expeditions in search of the Aurora Borealis, you'll tour some of the country's most dramatic natural wonders and unforgettable landscapes. Visit impressive waterfalls, vast glaciers, volcanic beaches, and more on this exciting winter adventure.

Seljalandsfoss
Iceland: East Fjords, South Coast, & Golden Circle - 6 Days

Make the most of your limited time by driving one way from Egilsstaðir to Vík to Reykjavík—without retracing your steps. On this six-day road trip, take in the dramatic landscapes of the Eastern Fjords, from Seyðisfjörður to Vatnajökull National Park, and enjoy more time seeing new places along the South Coast (Fjaðrárgljúfur Canyon, Skógafoss, and Seljalandsfoss waterfalls) and Golden Circle (Gullfoss, Geysir, and Þingvellir National Park), rather than doubling back. You can embark on this route in either direction, but a domestic flight to Egilsstaðir at the beginning of your trip is more efficient, without large crowds, to explore remote areas on your own terms.

Favorite experiences

South Highlands Helicopter Tour

See Iceland from a completely different perspective by flying above the county's serene, diverse, and breathtaking landscape. This half-day journey brings you the ultimate sample of Iceland's natural and cultural highlights. From stunning glaciers, volcanoes, and waterfalls to marvels of human...

Langjökull Glacier Snowmobiling

Snowmobiling in Iceland is a bucket list for many travelers, and you can enjoy the adventure atop Langjökull Glacier, just about 95 miles (150 km) northeast of Reykjavik. Join professional guides in the Icelandic Highlands, offering amazing views of the majestic glacier and its unique...

The Blue Lagoon

Imagine relaxing in a blend of seawater and geothermally heated water, rich in silica, minerals, and algae, all while surrounded by a lunar lava landscape. This experience is one of Iceland's most famous and a huge tourist draw. But although it attracts the masses, as soak in the Blue Lagoon is...

Northern Lights Hunt in a Super Jeep

Hop aboard a Super Jeep (a special vehicle made specifically to navigate icy and off-road terrain like Iceland's) and enjoy a thrilling hunt for the Northern Lights. With a Super Jeep, you can ditch the crowds, tourist buses, and light pollution and get off-the-beaten-path to reach exclusive...

Reindeer Safari in East Iceland

East Iceland is home to the country's only herd of wild reindeer. The species was imported to Iceland in the 18th  century, but they currently only reside in the eastern stretches. Starting from the town of Eglisstadir, you can enjoy a unique excursion that allows you to see the wild reindeer in...

Recent trip reviews for Silvía

Iceland Adventure
Iceland | Feb 15 - Feb 22, 2023

B
Beth B.
India | Reviewed on Feb 27, 2023

Best excursion was visiting the ice caves with David! He was knowledgeable, funny, and extremely safety oriented. We all felt comfortable and got to experience the awesome beauty of the caves. All of the hotels recommended from Silvia were clean and in great locations. The staff was extremely attentive to our needs. Silvia was great! She checked in with us throughout the trip and reassured us when the gasoline strike occurred. She kept us informed of weather reports and was flexible with our... read more

Best excursion was visiting the ice caves with David! He was knowledgeable, funny, and extremely safety oriented. We all felt comfortable and got to experience the awesome beauty of the caves. All of the hotels recommended from Silvia were clean and in great locations. The staff was extremely attentive to our needs. Silvia was great! She checked in with us throughout the trip and reassured us when the gasoline strike occurred. She kept us informed of weather reports and was flexible with our reservations when needed. We would highly recommend!

Hotel Review
Icelandair Hotel Vík
Vík

The staff woke us up at night (with our permission) when the Northern Lights were visible so we didn’t miss anything!

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
The front desk staff was exceptionally nice!
Cleanliness & Comfort
Activity Review
Vatnshellir Lava Cave Tour
Iceland
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Local specialist: Silvía Ástvaldsdóttir

Kimkim and Silvia could not have been better!
Iceland | Feb 18 - Feb 25, 2023

D
David C.
Cheektowaga, NY | Reviewed on Feb 26, 2023

Silvia was available nearly 24/7, quickly had answers to all my questions, big and small, had an easy and detailed knowledge of travel, of Iceland (where we visited), of services and culture, etc., and was able to get some discounts on local activities/services while we were there.

We could not be more happy with both Kimkim and Silvia!

Local specialist: Silvía Ástvaldsdóttir

Seven day action-packed trip to Iceland impossible without KimKim
Iceland | Feb 15 - Feb 22, 2023

Michael
Michael S.
Westfield, NJ | Reviewed on Feb 24, 2023

Seven day action-packed trip to Iceland would not have been possible without the help of Silvia at KimKim. She worked out a fantastic itinerary: 2 days based in Borgarnes, 2 days in Vic, a fantastic night at a cabin in the Hrifunes Nature Park (great venue for Northern Lights!), finally 2 days in Reykajavik. We had pre-paid vouchers for everything and Silvia worked with us ahead of the trip to make sure we were hitting everything we wanted to see.
More important: Silvia kept in touch... read more

Seven day action-packed trip to Iceland would not have been possible without the help of Silvia at KimKim. She worked out a fantastic itinerary: 2 days based in Borgarnes, 2 days in Vic, a fantastic night at a cabin in the Hrifunes Nature Park (great venue for Northern Lights!), finally 2 days in Reykajavik. We had pre-paid vouchers for everything and Silvia worked with us ahead of the trip to make sure we were hitting everything we wanted to see.
More important: Silvia kept in touch throughout the trip and when bad weather caused us to cancel a trip east to Skaftafell, she had alternatives for us and handled all the rebookings. Loved the constant check-in and help with everything.
We will definitely use KimKim again and "where to go next" will be determined on where KimKim operates. We saved money with KimKim and had a fabulous time. Thanks!

Hotel Reviews
Hrifunes Nature Park
Hrífunes

Great location on the south coast of Iceland. Several cabins spaced far enough apart for privacy. We had a three-bedroom unit, clean and modern. We cooked in the well-equipped kitchen and had a fantastic time. Condition of everything was fantastic and very close to new.

Authenticity & Character
Modern unit furnished almost exclusively from Ikea.
Location
Great location for Northern Lights: dark skies, no light pollution. Convenient for hiking / touring the South - South East coast of Iceland.
Staff
Easy to reach for check-in / check-out, helpful with firing up the hot-tub.
Cleanliness & Comfort
Everything was "like new" - well maintained and trouble free. Comfy beds.
Icelandair Hotel Vík
Vík

Fantastic hotel located conveniently in Vic, opened 5-6 years ago, everything in great shape. Rooms were larger than expected, nicely finished. Restaurant was fantastic for breakfast and dinner. Good bar, exercise room. Helpful, friendly staff. Would stay again.

Authenticity & Character
Lobby well done with Iceland geology references, great wood finishes in rooms. Great place to come back to at the end of a busy day.
Location
Vic is a great base to see the South Coast of Iceland, Icelander Hotel Vic is the best place to stay in town.
Staff
Excellent local knowledge and helpful planning outdoor activities when the weather was challenging. Local eating recommendations were spot-on good.
Cleanliness & Comfort
5-6 year old hotel, everything was "like new."
Local specialist: Silvía Ástvaldsdóttir

The trip was amazing although Beth did all th...
Iceland | Feb 15 - Feb 22, 2023

K
Karen S.
Westfield, NJ | Reviewed on Feb 24, 2023

The trip was amazing although Beth did all the pre planning with Silvia. I wasn’t involved in that. So appreciated the regular contact to make sure that everything was going well. Also Silvia was able to switch things for us when we were delayed. Also kept us updated on the strike situation. Would definitely recommend Silvia to anyone

Also, our guide David who took us to the ice caves out of Vik was excellent. Would give him a 5 star review read more

The trip was amazing although Beth did all the pre planning with Silvia. I wasn’t involved in that. So appreciated the regular contact to make sure that everything was going well. Also Silvia was able to switch things for us when we were delayed. Also kept us updated on the strike situation. Would definitely recommend Silvia to anyone

Also, our guide David who took us to the ice caves out of Vik was excellent. Would give him a 5 star review

Local specialist: Silvía Ástvaldsdóttir

Honeymoon in Iceland.
Iceland | Jan 3 - Jan 8, 2023

Stephanie
Stephanie M.
Dubuque, IA | Reviewed on Jan 10, 2023

When setting out to plan our honeymoon we ran across Kimkim. Having never heard of it before we were a bit skeptical, but we are so glad we did some research and committed! Having someone on your side to book events and offer optional sightseeing advice was amazing. With our busy schedules we would have never had the time to research Iceland in this depth.

Silvía was amazing in helping to plan our trip, as well as with helping coordinate several last minute changes during our trip.... read more

When setting out to plan our honeymoon we ran across Kimkim. Having never heard of it before we were a bit skeptical, but we are so glad we did some research and committed! Having someone on your side to book events and offer optional sightseeing advice was amazing. With our busy schedules we would have never had the time to research Iceland in this depth.

Silvía was amazing in helping to plan our trip, as well as with helping coordinate several last minute changes during our trip. Because of her invaluable help, we were able to see everything we hoped for and many places we would have otherwise missed.

Silvía handled everything from the car rental to booking hotels and activities that require advance ticketing, making the entire process easy and stress free.

We began our trip to Iceland by picking up our rental car and immediately setting off for a winter snorkeling session in a national park, followed by a dip into a nearby hot spring, Secret Lagoon.

The second day was filled with sightseeing waterfalls and a snow mobile ride on a glacier.

The next day, we explored natural ice caves and Diamond Beach.

Our 4th day was spent in Reykjavik, relaxing at the Sky Lagoon and exploring much of the city.

Day 5 we attempted to search out the northern lights. Although it wasn’t a good night for the lights, we were able to check out several restaurants and tried some traditional Icelandic cuisine.

The hotels each night were very nice and accommodating, often with their own restaurants with great food.

We would recommend this trip, especially with Silvia’s help, to anyone. Without her help, we would not have experienced nearly as much as we did.

Hotel Reviews
Hotel Vík í Mýrdal
Vík

Clean, modern, and friendly staff. The hotel’s restaurant was great! We had the artic char and lamb shank, both were delicious!

Authenticity & Character
Loved the stone and glass contrast.
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Icelandair Hotel Klaustur
Kirkjubæjarklaustur

Clean hotel with friendly staff. The cocktails at the hotels bar were great!

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Activity Reviews
Silfra Snorkeling
Iceland

Our guide Eeva was great! Very friendly and easy to talk to. It was surprisingly warmer in the water than out! A fun experience I am they were able to reschedule for us (due to flight delay)!

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Myrdalsjokull glacier snowmobiling
Iceland
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Crystal Blue Ice Cave
Iceland
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Hunting the Northern Lights with a Guide -Private tour
Iceland

We didn’t see any of the lights, but still had a good time trying. Our guide was very friendly and offered new knowledge of Iceland!

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Local specialist: Silvía Ástvaldsdóttir
Silvía
Silvía Ástvaldsdóttir
Local specialist in Sweden | Reviewed on Jan 12, 2023

Hey Stephanie and Joshua,

Thanks so much for the awesome review! So happy to hear that your honeymoon in Iceland was a blast.

Cheers,
Silvia

Land of fire and ice
Iceland | Nov 5 - Nov 13, 2022

M
Mario H.
| Reviewed on Nov 14, 2022

My wife and I had an incredible experience in Iceland, largely thanks to KimKim.

More specifically, our local specialist Sylvia. She was responsive and organized. She suggested many activities we would have never thought of by ourselves and help us coordinate along the way as our plans changed. I can’t stress enough how amazing she was!

Countless waterfalls, glaciers, mountains, lakes, and of course natural hot baths. I would recommend to anyone that they visit, and get Sylvia’s help to... read more

My wife and I had an incredible experience in Iceland, largely thanks to KimKim.

More specifically, our local specialist Sylvia. She was responsive and organized. She suggested many activities we would have never thought of by ourselves and help us coordinate along the way as our plans changed. I can’t stress enough how amazing she was!

Countless waterfalls, glaciers, mountains, lakes, and of course natural hot baths. I would recommend to anyone that they visit, and get Sylvia’s help to do so!

Hotel Review
Sæluhus Hotel Apartments & Houses
Akureyri

Very nice apartment in a great location. The owners even shipped me an iPad internationally that I left behind.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Local specialist: Silvía Ástvaldsdóttir
Silvía
Silvía Ástvaldsdóttir
Local specialist in Sweden | Reviewed on Nov 14, 2022

Thank you so much for your lovely review, Mario & Karolina!

I'm so happy that you had a great trip to Iceland.
Looking forward to planning your next adventure :)

ABSOLUTLEY INCREDIBLE
Iceland | Sep 25 - Oct 2, 2022

Nick
Nick G.
Nicetown-Tioga, PA | Reviewed on Oct 09, 2022

I don't know what else to say other then everything was INCREDIBLE. Silvia was so helpful with everything we needed. She planned the perfect trip for us, down to every detail. Our biggest concerns before going to Iceland were; where are we driving every day, and the food. But Silvia made the driving effortless with daily google map itineraries, and in addition to daily local food recommendations, was able to get us hard to get reservations at amazing restaurants. My wife and I have already... read more

I don't know what else to say other then everything was INCREDIBLE. Silvia was so helpful with everything we needed. She planned the perfect trip for us, down to every detail. Our biggest concerns before going to Iceland were; where are we driving every day, and the food. But Silvia made the driving effortless with daily google map itineraries, and in addition to daily local food recommendations, was able to get us hard to get reservations at amazing restaurants. My wife and I have already started talking about our plans to visit Sweden or Switzerland and would love to have Silvia as our agent again!

Activity Review
The Retreat Spa.
Iceland

So glad we ended our 8 day trip at the Retreat Spa. The best possible way to wind down a very busy and exciting week.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Local specialist: Silvía Ástvaldsdóttir
Silvía
Silvía Ástvaldsdóttir
Local specialist in Sweden | Reviewed on Oct 31, 2022

Thank you Nick for such a wonderful review!

It's been a pleasure helping you plan your anniversary/honeymoon in Icleand.
I'm so happy that the trip was a success :)
If you decide to visit Sweden, I would be more then happy to help you plan your next trip!