Private Folklore Walking Tour - Meet the Elves, Trolls & Ghosts of Iceland in Reykjavik, Iceland
Reykjavik, Iceland

Private Folklore Walking Tour - Meet the Elves, Trolls & Ghosts of Iceland

Outty Ranking 72 5.0 · 41 traveler reviews1.5 hoursFrom $165
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Outty Ranking

72/100

Strongly Recommended. Our proprietary evaluation. How we score

Traveler rating

5.0/5

Based on 41 traveler reviews. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.

Quick answer

Is Private Folklore Walking Tour - Meet the Elves, Trolls & Ghosts of Iceland worth booking?

Private Folklore Walking Tour - Meet the Elves, Trolls & Ghosts of Iceland is a 1.5-hour experience in Reykjavik, Iceland, from $165 per person. It scores 72 out of 100 on the Outty Ranking, which we label “Strongly Recommended”, based on a 5/5 rating across 41 reviews. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the start time. Same-day spots are currently showing.

Outty Ranking
72 / 100
Rating
5/5 (41)
Duration
1.5 hours
From
$165 per person

MEET THE ELVES, TROLLS & GHOSTS OF ICELAND Iceland is sometimes called the land of the Sagas and on this mythical walk, you get the chance to hear many interesting sagas involving the hidden people and creatures of Iceland The Elves & Trolls of Iceland We will tell you all about the Elves and Trolls of Iceland, Ghosts like the Deacon of the dark river, the unique mostly aquatic monsters, the 13 Santa’s (it’s not enough to have just one Santa Claus in Iceland after all ;)), their mother the child eating troll called Grýla and finally the only known serial killer of Iceland in a land where it’s easy to get lost in the lava fields. Storytelling is a skill In the long winter nights in Iceland storytelling has been the primary entertainment for people so there are reasons why Icelanders love books and have the highest literacy rate in the world.

What you get

    About this experience

    MEET THE ELVES, TROLLS & GHOSTS OF ICELAND Iceland is sometimes called the land of the Sagas and on this mythical walk, you get the chance to hear many interesting sagas involving the hidden people and creatures of Iceland The Elves & Trolls of Iceland We will tell you all about the Elves and Trolls of Iceland, Ghosts like the Deacon of the dark river, the unique mostly aquatic monsters, the 13 Santa’s (it’s not enough to have just one Santa Claus in Iceland after all ;)), their mother the child eating troll called Grýla and finally the only known serial killer of Iceland in a land where it’s easy to get lost in the lava fields. Storytelling is a skill In the long winter nights in Iceland storytelling has been the primary entertainment for people so there are reasons why Icelanders love books and have the highest literacy rate in the world.

    What's included

    Included

    • Guide

    What you'll see and do

    1. We meet up by the artwork of the two stone pillars that are supposed to signify how Reykjavik was discovered and settled by the first Viking.

      5 minutes here

    2. The Settlement Exhibition

      Our next stop is the oldest graveyard in Reykjavik which is in front of the Settlement Museum. There we learn how to summon a Zombie or ghost to do your bidding

      7 minutes here

    3. The Settlement Exhibition

      Our 3d stop is a secret Elf-stone or Elf home close to the Settlement museum. There we visit the Elves of Iceland and some of their stories

      7 minutes here

    4. Next stop is the Cathedral of Catholicism in Reykjavik where we talk a little about religion in Iceland and the influence of that on our mythical beings. The Trolls of Iceland did not like the church very much.

      7 minutes here

    5. Cemetery Holavallagardur

      This Cemetary is beautiful and haunting so a perfect setting for tales of ghosts and the undead.

      20 minutes here

    6. Lake Tjornin

      The pond or lake of Reykjavik is beautiful to visit. There is the possibility of aquatic monsters or other mythical beings visiting.

      10 minutes here

    7. Reykjavik City Hall

      We pass by the Reykjavik City Hall on our way back and sometimes we peek inside if there is something interesting going on.

      Pass by without stopping

    8. Parliament House (Althingishus)

      Our Final stop is in front of the Parliament building of Iceland and there we discuss the Guardian Spirits of Iceland and maybe we teach you some Icelandic Magic

      10 minutes here

    Where it starts and ends

    Meeting point

    Reykjavik

    Outside Hlöllabátar, facing Ingólfstorg Square and the two tall stone pillars. CenterHotel Plaza is to your right. Benches, tables, and a covered ceiling make it a comfortable spot to wait. Our expert local guides usually wear a light blue jacket with Your Friend in Reykjavik on the back

    Hotel pickup

    Pickup is available for selected locations. Pickup begins about 5 minutes before departure.

    Ends at

    Returns to the starting point

    Before you book

    Cancellation
    For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
    Languages
    en, fr, es
    Ticket
    Mobile Only
    Runs on
    Every day
    Group size
    Up to 15 travelers per booking
    Operated by
    Your Friend In Reykjavik

    Know before you go

    • Wheelchair accessible
    • Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
    • Service animals allowed
    • Public transportation options are available nearby
    • Suitable for all physical fitness levels

    Photos

    Elf Stones - And why you shouldn´t mess with them, one of many little fun lectures you will receive on our Private Folklore Tour, Private Folklore...Telling a story about the Trolls of Iceland, Private Folklore Walking Tour - Meet the Elves, Trolls & Ghosts of Iceland in ReykjavikOur guides put in the extra bit of effort during the stories to really immerse you in Reykjavik´s history and traditions, Private Folklore Walking...Our guides put in the extra bit of effort during the stories to really immerse you in Reykjavik´s history and traditions, Private Folklore Walking...Visit the Hólavallakirkjugarður cemetary on our Private Reykjavik Folklore Tour and learn all about it´s history, Private Folklore Walking Tour -...Even our trees have stories to them! Our expert guides will be able to answer every question that may occur during this interesting tour, Private...

    What travelers are saying

    Outty’s summary of the themes that recur across 41 traveler reviews. Written by us, not quoted from reviewers.

    Knowledge and storytelling

    6 mentions

    Reviewers describe the commentary as informative rather than scripted.

    The guide

    5 mentions

    Travelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works.

    Traveler reviews

    41 verified traveler reviews for Private Folklore Walking Tour - Meet the Elves, Trolls & Ghosts of Iceland. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.

    5 star
    39
    4 star
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    2 star
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    Sort
    juliarR2544XU · August 2026

    Top Tour!

    Lauren was wonderful! Super interesting stories! Thank you so much!

    via Tripadvisor

    jeff_m · August 2026

    Arno was awesome!! ...

    Arno was awesome!! Learned much, saw fantastic sites, and had a great time. We highly recommend him!

    via Viator

    Amber_V · June 2026

    Fantastic Folklore Fieldtrip

    Stefan was wonderful. He was very kind, knowledgeable, funny and patient. My daughter and I had a delightful time hearing folklore stories and learning about the culture of Norway. 100% recommend!

    via Viator

    Ambassador765632 · May 2026

    Family walking tour - with trolls, elves, cats and a singing guide!

    We thoroughly enjoyed our private walking tour with Stefan Ivarsson - he brought the folkloric tales alive and even sang some (very dark) traditional Icelandic lullabies. A great way to see the less obvious sights of Reykjavik.

    via Tripadvisor

    CayceF4 · December 2025

    Great tour!

    We had a great time learning about the folklore stories of Iceland. It was a good mix of ghost stories, elves, trolls, and other folklore beings. Robin was a great guide!

    Response from the operator: Thank you so much for this wonderful review! 😊✨ We truly appreciate you taking the time to share your experience. We’re delighted to hear that you enjoyed the mix of ghost stories, elves, trolls, and other folklore beings 👻🧝‍♂️🧌 — Icelandic folklore really does have a little bit of everything! We’re especially happy to hear that Robin made the tour memorable for you. She’ll be thrilled to know her storytelling and guiding made such a great impression 🌟 Thank you again for your kind words, and we hope to see you again soon on another adventure in Reykjavík 🇮🇸❤️ With gratitude and warm regards Steina Your Friend In Reykjavík & Team

    via Tripadvisor

    Good to know

    Duration
    1.5 hours
    Free cancellation
    Up to 24h before
    Minimum age to book
    All ages
    Availability
    Bookable today
    Runs on
    Every day
    Price range
    $165 to $277
    Hotel pickup
    Available for selected locations
    Booked in 30 days
    14
    Verdict
    Strongly Recommended

    Who runs this experience

    Operated by Your Friend In Reykjavik, who run 17 experiences we rank across 1 city, with an average Outty Ranking of 56.2.

    See everything Your Friend In Reykjavik runs

    Why this scores 72

    The Outty Ranking is a weighted composite. Here is how this experience performed on each component.

    Traveler sentiment (30% weight)94
    Review evidence (18% weight)48
    Booking momentum (14% weight)40
    Value for money (12% weight)59
    Listing quality (10% weight)85
    Local standing (8% weight)70
    Booking flexibility (8% weight)100

    Private Folklore Walking Tour - Meet the Elves, Trolls & Ghosts of Iceland: questions travelers ask

    Practical detail on this experience, plus the wider planning questions for Reykjavik.

    How much does Private Folklore Walking Tour - Meet the Elves, Trolls & Ghosts of Iceland cost?

    +

    Prices start at $165 per person. The final price depends on the date, the time slot and the number of travelers, and peak weekends in Reykjavik usually price higher than midweek mornings. Live pricing and remaining availability are confirmed on the booking screen before you pay.

    How long does Private Folklore Walking Tour - Meet the Elves, Trolls & Ghosts of Iceland take?

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    Plan for about 1.5 hours from start to finish, not counting travel to the meeting point. Most travelers leave another 30 minutes on either side so the rest of the day in Reykjavik is not rushed.

    Is Private Folklore Walking Tour - Meet the Elves, Trolls & Ghosts of Iceland worth it?

    +

    It holds an Outty Ranking of 72 out of 100, which we label "Strongly Recommended". That score blends traveler sentiment (5/5 across 41 reviews), the depth of that review evidence, recent booking momentum, value for money against comparable last minute in Reykjavik, and how flexible the cancellation terms are.

    Can I cancel or reschedule Private Folklore Walking Tour - Meet the Elves, Trolls & Ghosts of Iceland?

    +

    Yes. Cancel free up to 24 hours before the start time for a full refund. Inside that window the booking is non-refundable, and no-shows are not refunded.

    Is Private Folklore Walking Tour - Meet the Elves, Trolls & Ghosts of Iceland suitable for kids and families?

    +

    Yes, all ages are welcome. Families should still weigh the 1.5-hour running time, and strollers are easier on the earlier, quieter departures.

    How far in advance should I book Private Folklore Walking Tour - Meet the Elves, Trolls & Ghosts of Iceland?

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    Around 14 people booked this in the last 30 days, so popular slots go early. Two to three weeks ahead is comfortable in shoulder season, while summer weekends and holidays in Reykjavik can sell out a month out. Same-day spots do open up when other travelers cancel, so it is worth checking if you are already in town.

    What should I bring or wear?

    +

    Bring photo ID, your booking confirmation on your phone, a refillable water bottle and comfortable shoes. Dress for the weather in Reykjavik and add a light layer if any part of the 1.5-hour experience runs outdoors or after sunset.

    Where does Private Folklore Walking Tour - Meet the Elves, Trolls & Ghosts of Iceland start and how do I get there?

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    The exact meeting point and directions are on your voucher once you book, and they sit in central Reykjavik within reach of public transport. Arrive 15 minutes early: late arrivals are treated as no-shows by most operators.

    What are the best things to do in Reykjavik?

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    On Outty we rank every Reykjavik experience on the same 0 to 100 scale, and alongside this one the highest scorers right now include Reykjavik Food Walk - Local Foodie Adventure in Iceland, Silfra Snorkeling Between Continents Photos Included- Self Drive, Small-Group Golden Circle, Blue Lagoon with Ticket & Kerid Crater. The city page groups everything into most popular, highest reviewed, last minute and family-friendly so you can build a day around what actually delivers.

    When is the best time to visit Reykjavik?

    +

    Booking patterns follow the same curve: prices and queues climb in peak weeks, while shoulder season gives you better availability on the top-ranked experiences and more room to change plans.

    How many days do you need in Reykjavik?

    +

    Three full days covers the headline sights without sprinting. A workable rhythm is one anchor experience each morning, such as this one, an unhurried afternoon in a single neighborhood, then a food or nightlife booking in the evening. Five days lets you add a day trip outside the city.

    Do I book through Outty or through the operator?

    +

    Outty ranks and explains the experiences, then hands you to Viator to complete the booking with the operator directly. The price is the same as booking on Viator yourself, and Outty earns an affiliate commission on the referral, which is how the rankings stay free to read.

    What is included in Private Folklore Walking Tour - Meet the Elves, Trolls & Ghosts of Iceland?

    +

    Included: Guide. Always check the voucher for the final list before you travel.

    Does Private Folklore Walking Tour - Meet the Elves, Trolls & Ghosts of Iceland include hotel pickup?

    +

    Yes, pickup is offered, or you can meet at the start point instead from 37 listed pickup locations in and around Reykjavik. Be ready about 5 minutes before the start time.

    What languages is Private Folklore Walking Tour - Meet the Elves, Trolls & Ghosts of Iceland offered in?

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    It is offered in English, French and Spanish. Pick your language when choosing a date and time, as not every departure runs in every language.

    Will I get instant confirmation and a mobile ticket for Private Folklore Walking Tour - Meet the Elves, Trolls & Ghosts of Iceland?

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    Confirmation is sent by the operator after booking, usually within 48 hours; if it is not confirmed you are not charged. Mobile tickets are accepted, so you can show the voucher on your phone.

    Is Private Folklore Walking Tour - Meet the Elves, Trolls & Ghosts of Iceland wheelchair or stroller accessible?

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    The operator notes: Wheelchair accessible; and Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller. If accessibility is critical, contact the operator after booking to confirm arrangements for your date.

    What happens to Private Folklore Walking Tour - Meet the Elves, Trolls & Ghosts of Iceland if the weather is bad?

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    It generally runs rain or shine, so dress for the forecast in Reykjavik. Standard cancellation terms apply: free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start.

    What do travelers say about Private Folklore Walking Tour - Meet the Elves, Trolls & Ghosts of Iceland?

    +

    Across 41 reviews averaging 5.0 out of 5, recurring themes include knowledge and storytelling, the guide. Reviewers describe the commentary as informative rather than scripted.

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