Iceland touched me like no other place has before. It's vast sweeping vistas, its powerful, evocative elements, and its sheer beauty - at times desolate, at others, luxurious - has for me made it the premier travel destination bar none.
Having been born and brought up in South Africa with an innate passion for nature and the outdoors, I have always been drawn to explore the diverse landscapes and inhabitants - human and otherwise - of this wondrous and curious world. It's also a means to really getting to know oneself, which I've found is a life-long endeavor, and it's taken me to places as distinct and dissimilar as the Namib desert and Zanzibar, Patagonia and the Utah slickrock country, the Italian Apennines and Delhi's Chandni Chowk, and now, the mother of them all, Iceland.
As an avid traveller, maps are my bedrock, and while poring over them is a delightful pastime in and of itself, they also fuel the excitement that builds through that most essential aspect of the trip: planning. My experiences have helped hone my approach to travel preparation so that efficiency and openness to spontaneous opportunity are harmonious bedfellows. Thus far, it's a mantra that has served me well.
What places and activities do you specialize in?
"Tailor-made trips to explore the untrodden paths and untouched beauty of Iceland: help travelers discover lesser-visited parts of Iceland and add flavor to the more frequently traveled routes; provide personalized service to make sure your holiday is all about you; offer local expertise to provide an authentic experience."
How did you get involved in travel?
"Having lived for almost 20 years in the US, I moved to Italy in 2006, launching myself into travel-related initiatives such as self-publishing an online magazine focused on monthly events, local personalities, seasonal food recipes, and "hidden havens"; making presentations on the appeal of my adopted home in Le Marche; and conducting tours to local attractions, all with an off-the-beaten-track bent. When my new-found passion for Iceland guided me to Iceland Offbeat, I realized I'd found the ideal environment to channel my energies through a shared philosophy towards travel."
Please share a unique travel experience you will never forget.
"On a moody, overcast morning in northern Iceland, along with my wife and son I walked up to the rim of the Hverfjall crater. Upon getting to the top, I was immediately filled with a raw emotion that brought me almost to tears - the black earth sweeping away in every direction, the sense of a living earth beneath my feet, a feeling that I was in the presence of the gods."
Duncan's favorite itineraries and travel advice
Top itineraries and travel advice
Family itineraries
Road trip itineraries
Recent trip reviews for Duncan
Amazing Surprise Birthday Trip to Iceland!!!!
Iceland
|
Apr 20 - Apr 28, 2024
Mike R.
San Jose, CA
| Reviewed on May 18, 2024
I had the idea to plan a surprise Iceland trip for my wife’s 50th birthday, and Duncan was phenomenal in every way to turn the idea into an amazing trip!! From the planning phase to answering any questions while we were there, Duncan was always extremely responsive, organized, and knowledgeable! We loved every aspect of our trip from going to the blue lagoon after we landed to the hotels (Hotel Budir was our favorite) to the ice cave and glacier tours to the waterfalls and hikes and...
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I had the idea to plan a surprise Iceland trip for my wife’s 50th birthday, and Duncan was phenomenal in every way to turn the idea into an amazing trip!! From the planning phase to answering any questions while we were there, Duncan was always extremely responsive, organized, and knowledgeable! We loved every aspect of our trip from going to the blue lagoon after we landed to the hotels (Hotel Budir was our favorite) to the ice cave and glacier tours to the waterfalls and hikes and restaurant recommendations (must go to Fridheimar - the tomato farm for an outstanding lunch) and our last couple days in the city. My wife had a wonderful birthday, and we loved our time there. Thank you, Duncan!!!
Local specialist: Duncan Campbell
It’s been a year since we embarked on our fir...
Iceland
|
Mar 17 - Mar 24, 2023
Lily M.
Singapore
| Reviewed on Mar 12, 2024
It’s been a year since we embarked on our first ever Iceland trip as a family. Duncan was incredibly patient, detailed and attentive as we planned the trip months ahead. All the experiences and accommodation arrangements were spot on and suited our budget and adventure appetite. Duncan stayed in touch almost daily while we were in Iceland.
When there were hiccups due to weather, Duncan (and Michele when Duncan could not) were always a text away to rearrange our itinerary.
Definitely recommend their services especially if you are visiting Iceland for the first time.
Local specialist: Duncan Campbell
Duncan Campbell
Local specialist in Italy
| Replied on Mar 12, 2024
Thanks so much for your great review, Lily, it was a pleasure to help, and glad your trip went smoothly.
Duncan
Duncan did an amazing job planning my family'...
Iceland
|
Dec 18 - Dec 27, 2023
finley B.
Richardson, TX
| Reviewed on Dec 29, 2023
Duncan did an amazing job planning my family's trip to Iceland. He always responded promptly and was patient with me as we figured out a plan that would work best for our 9 day trip. It was a Christmas trip to remember!
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Duncan did an amazing job planning my family's trip to Iceland. He always responded promptly and was patient with me as we figured out a plan that would work best for our 9 day trip. It was a Christmas trip to remember!
Hotel Reviews
Hótel Keflavík by Keflavík Airport
Keflavík
Wonderful spot to stay since we arrived late and needed to hit the road early.
Hótel Húsafell
Húsafell, Borgarbyggð
Such a beautiful spot in West Iceland, with little around to take away from the beauty.
Hótel Egilsen
Stykkishólmur
Absolutely loved the character of this place. So intimate and fun with its unique flair.
Hótel Klaustur
Kirkjubæjarklaustur
The staff was amazing and made sure that our stay, over Christmas Eve, was very enjoyable. The food was so good!
Great location near the geyser and waterfall. We loved the staff and this location.
What a great location in Reykjavík! We could walk to everything we wanted to see and everyone was so kind.
Activity Reviews
Vidgelmir cave guided tour
Iceland
This cave tour was such a fun experience. Our guide was knowledgable and entertaining. He led a wonderful tour!
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Langjokull Glacier Snowmobiling
Iceland
The snowmobiling was a thrilling experience. It was the coldest day of our trip so definitely recommend packing plenty of layers. The staff was great and the view from on top of the glacier cannot be matched.
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Crystal Blue Ice Cave
Iceland
This was by far my family's favorite tour. I would do this over and over again. It was an unreal experience to walk on and in the largest glacier in Europe.
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Local specialist: Duncan Campbell
Duncan Campbell
Local specialist in Italy
| Replied on Dec 30, 2023
What a great review, Finley, thank you so much. It was a real pleasure working with you, and I'm so glad your trip was a success.
What an easy/breezy way to set up a trip!
Iceland
|
Sep 11 - Sep 22, 2023
Kim J.
Moab, UT
| Reviewed on Dec 08, 2023
What an easy/breezy way to set up a new trip to literally anywhere. We spent 12 days exploring Iceland and I cannot imagine how difficult it would have been to set this trip up on my own. Our specialist, Duncan, helped us with every step of the way from hotels to vehicles to fun activities. I will be using KimKim again for sure for other countries and cannot recommend working with Duncan enough!
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What an easy/breezy way to set up a new trip to literally anywhere. We spent 12 days exploring Iceland and I cannot imagine how difficult it would have been to set this trip up on my own. Our specialist, Duncan, helped us with every step of the way from hotels to vehicles to fun activities. I will be using KimKim again for sure for other countries and cannot recommend working with Duncan enough!
Activity Review
Expensive but worth it. Very well set up and a great way to start (or end) an Iceland trip.
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Local specialist: Duncan Campbell
Duncan Campbell
Local specialist in Italy
| Replied on Dec 08, 2023
Thanks for the great review, Kim, I'm so glad you had a rewarding trip, with (mostly) good weather. It was a real pleasure working with you!
Awesome trip. Saw so much in 10 days and real...
Iceland
|
Aug 3 - Aug 13, 2023
Jennifer R.
Hanover, PA
| Reviewed on Aug 20, 2023
Awesome trip. Saw so much in 10 days and really appreciated having to plan so little!! Totally worth the cost and wil use kimkim in the future.
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Awesome trip. Saw so much in 10 days and really appreciated having to plan so little!! Totally worth the cost and wil use kimkim in the future.
Hotel Reviews
Fosshotel Hellnar
Hellnar
Lovely location. Rooms basic and small but clean. Restaurant was excellent.
Locks on room doors were REALLY hard to open with the keys. They really need to modernize the locks.
Location
Great hike along the coast from the hotel. Views of the glacier.
Fosshótel Reykholt
Reykholt
Much more modern than the first Fosshotel.
We enjoyed the hot tub and spa here. The restaurant was also very good.
The Greenhouse Hotel
Hveragerdi
Cool place in a great area. Rooms were small but nice. Food hall downstairs was great for late meals when everything else was closed.
Staff
Very helpful thank Ben we had a problem with a room lock.
Volcano Huts Þórsmörk
Thorsmork
We stayed in the Glamping tents. They were beautiful. My only complaint is that the tiny heater in tent number two did a pretty poor job of keeping us warm at night. Thank goodness for the heavy down comforters!
Staff
Great at recommending hikes.
Cleanliness & Comfort
Better beat for tents. Showers were also cold unless you waited for the first one. Bathrooms were pretty nasty and need to be cleaned better.
Pretty dated but very nice rooms. Their new hot tub was beautiful. The restaurant was excellent.
Hótel Klaustur
Kirkjubæjarklaustur
Lovely, modern hotel in a tiny town in South Iceland. The rooms were beautiful. The common spaces at the hotel are also beautiful. The breakfast was excellent.
Apótek Hotel by Keahotels
Reykjavík
Great location right in the heart of historic area. Rooms were small, but well appointed. The bathrooms are beautiful. I was a bit disappointed that the bar was so crazy but we happen to be there on the day of the pride parade so I’m guessing it’s not normally that crowded.
Staff
Efficient bit not terribly friendly.
Activity Reviews
Magical first stop. It was not very crowded because we were there early. The kids loved it.
Quality of Experience
The dressing rooms need to be warmer, especially because they don’t give you robes unless you pay extra. Bigger towels would also be nice.
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Staff not very friendly.
Silfra Snorkeling
Iceland
Did this with her two teenage boys. It was very cool. It was a bit cold, but not intolerable. The staff was awesome.
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Solheimajokull Glacier Hike
Iceland
I loved this experience. It was very informative and beautiful.
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Jokulsarlon glacier lagoon Zodiac boat tour
Iceland
Our boat captain, Adam, was fantastic. He clearly loves his job and his country. This was my favorite experience of the whole trip.
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Local specialist: Duncan Campbell
Duncan Campbell
Local specialist in Italy
| Replied on Aug 20, 2023
Thanks so much for your great and informative review, Jennifer. It was a pleasure to work with you and I'm really glad you had such a wonderful time with your family. Thanks for the pics as well, I always enjoy seeing travelers in situ. Wishing you exciting adventures in the future.
Duncan
Duncan made us feel well taken care of and th...
Iceland
|
Jul 6 - Jul 15, 2023
carol c.
Centennial, CO
| Reviewed on Jul 21, 2023
Duncan made us feel well taken care of and the itinerary was fantastic. I was a little concerned about accommodations but we stayed in nothing but lovely places and the food all over Iceland was delicious. A beautiful country and the self drive option is the way to go!
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Duncan made us feel well taken care of and the itinerary was fantastic. I was a little concerned about accommodations but we stayed in nothing but lovely places and the food all over Iceland was delicious. A beautiful country and the self drive option is the way to go!
Hotel Reviews
Fosshotel Stykkisholmur
Stykkishólmur
Very nice accommodation, restaurant dinner was first rate
Húsavík Cape Hotel
Husavik
My favorite. We had a corner room with bay views, lovely. Gentleman at the front desk was so delightful! A fun touch was the Eurovision exhibit. Not far from the Geoseas for a lovely soak in the evening!
Authenticity & Character
Simple classy decor
Staff
Front desk and a delightful chef!
Hotel Latrabjarg
Vesturbyggð
Seemed family run and the couple were so lovely! Food good, beds comfy!
Storm Hotel by Keahotels
Reykjavík
Local specialist: Duncan Campbell
Duncan Campbell
Local specialist in Italy
| Replied on Jul 24, 2023
Thanks so much for your positive review Carol, I'm so gald you enjoyed it, particularly after your fall. You have a great attitude and it was a pleasure working you. Looking forward to welcoming you back to Iceland sometime in the future.
Trip driving the Ring Road around Iceland.
Iceland
|
Jul 7 - Jul 18, 2023
Nels M.
Shaw, DC
| Reviewed on Jul 20, 2023
Duncan did a great job of planning our driving times and giving us so many options on sights and hiking. The hotels were nice and very accommodating. We enjoyed having the breakfasts included, made for a good send off every day.
The sights were amazing. The activities he planned for us were great, the 3 water parks were so relaxing, the walking on a glacier was a first for us, the zodiac boat ride with the icebergs was fantastic.
All the hiking we did each day was an experience in sights...
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Duncan did a great job of planning our driving times and giving us so many options on sights and hiking. The hotels were nice and very accommodating. We enjoyed having the breakfasts included, made for a good send off every day.
The sights were amazing. The activities he planned for us were great, the 3 water parks were so relaxing, the walking on a glacier was a first for us, the zodiac boat ride with the icebergs was fantastic.
All the hiking we did each day was an experience in sights and endurance that we enjoyed.
The restaurants and also the different foods was something that gave us a great understanding of what Iceland had to offer.
I just have to close by saying Duncan listened to what would work for us and he came through with a home run. We would definitely use KimKim again and ask for Duncan.
Hotel Reviews
Skuggi Hotel Reykjavík by Keahotels
Reykjavík
It was a decent place for me to sleep and eat. The staff was helpful and the check-in process was smooth. The breakfasts were enjoyable and the location was convenient. Overall, it was comfortable and met our needs.
Hotel Langaholt
Stadarstadur
It was a satisfactory stay. The hotel staff was accommodating and the check-in process was seamless. The hotel met my expectations for a one-night stay.
Birkilauf Guesthouse
Lake Myvatn
This was a bit different as it was a shared kitchen and living space which was a new experience.
Activity Reviews
Myvatn Nature Baths
Lake Mývatn
The nature baths were calming and enjoyable. The weather was good which made the experience even more enjoyable
Guides, Drivers and Staff
It was a relaxing activity right after a long flight. I had a good time and slept well after.
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Jokulsarlon glacier lagoon Zodiac boat tour
Iceland
This was an amazing experience. The tour was well-organized.
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Solheimajokull Glacier Hike
Iceland
This was a highlight of the trip. The hike was arranged well and we started at the time it was scheduled. The guides were friendly and answered all our questions.
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Local specialist: Duncan Campbell
Duncan Campbell
Local specialist in Italy
| Replied on Jul 21, 2023
Hi Nels, thanks so much for your great review, it's much appreciated. I'm so glad your trip went well, and the you were able to get a really good taste of Iceland's wonders. I wish you smooth and rewarding travels in the future.
Outstanding Itinerary
Iceland
|
Jul 7 - Jul 18, 2023
Robert K.
Janesville, WI
| Reviewed on Jul 20, 2023
We were very pleased with the entire trip. The itinerary worked out just perfectly. The pre-booked activities were excellent, especially the zodiac ride, glacier hike and the Sky Lagoon. Duncan’s suggestions for hikes and points of interest were very helpful; we did many of them. The accommodations were very good with the exception of Heradsskolinn Guest House.
So very glad that we booked with Duncan and Kimkim and would recommend the company to others.
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We were very pleased with the entire trip. The itinerary worked out just perfectly. The pre-booked activities were excellent, especially the zodiac ride, glacier hike and the Sky Lagoon. Duncan’s suggestions for hikes and points of interest were very helpful; we did many of them. The accommodations were very good with the exception of Heradsskolinn Guest House.
So very glad that we booked with Duncan and Kimkim and would recommend the company to others.
Hotel Reviews
Skuggi Hotel Reykjavík by Keahotels
Reykjavík
Authenticity & Character
Modern and a bit sterile
Location
Easy walking to restaurants and attractions
Hotel Langaholt
Stadarstadur
A bit tired and in need of update
Authenticity & Character
A bit run down and the dining was poor
Location
Nice views, and enjoyed the golf course
Staff
Very helpful and friendly
Cleanliness & Comfort
Rooms and public places were clean
Hótel Valaskjálf
Egilsstadir
Gauksmyri Lodge
Gauksmyri
Fosshótel Vatnajökull
Lindarbakki
Location
Very pastoral and quiet
Héradsskólinn Historic Guesthouse
Laugarvatn
Worst accommodations on our trip. Restaurant was overwhelmed and food poor. No shower in room, tub only. Made us remove our shoes at the door. Staff was over whelmed and confused.
Authenticity & Character
Too authentic! Like staying in a dormitory. Uncomfortable and in need of update.
Staff
Confused and under staffed
Cleanliness & Comfort
Overcrowded, and noisy
Activity Reviews
Too crowded and a bit tired.
Vatnshellir lava cave tour
Iceland
Very informative and an excellent guide.
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Myvatn Nature Baths
Lake Mývatn
Very enjoyable and organized.
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Jokulsarlon glacier lagoon Zodiac boat tour
Iceland
One of the trip highlights! Very well organized with excellent staff and a super guide.
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Solheimajokull Glacier Hike
Iceland
Terrific experience!! Great staff and guide, very conscientious. A real highlight of our trip.
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Local specialist: Duncan Campbell
Duncan Campbell
Local specialist in Italy
| Replied on Jul 21, 2023
Hi Robert, thanks so much, I appreciate your positive review, and am really happy things worked out well for you. It's very useful to hear which aspects of your trip were highlights, and it would be equally useful if you could share your experience at the Heradsskolinn Guest House so that we could learn for the future.
Iceland
Iceland
|
Jun 9 - Jun 18, 2023
Marion L.
Leawood, KS
| Reviewed on Jun 26, 2023
Duncan was a terrific planner and guide for our first trip to Iceland! He listened to our interests and provided terrific options. The itinerary, restaurant suggestions, and optional activities were all first-rate! When we had a few questions during our trip, Duncan was immediately available & always helpful! Overall a great experience! Thank you Duncan!!!
Local specialist: Duncan Campbell
Duncan Campbell
Local specialist in Italy
| Replied on Jun 26, 2023
Marion, thanks so much for the great review. I'm really pleased you and your family had a great trip, it was my pleasure to help create it.
Regards
Duncan
My son and I had the trip of a lifetime! Havi...
Iceland
|
May 18 - Jun 1, 2023
Julie S.
Wausau, WI
| Reviewed on Jun 20, 2023
My son and I had the trip of a lifetime! Having Duncan and our local person to contact as well was the way to plan a trip. They helped us when weather unexpectedly changed our plans, they also made our trip exactly like we asked them too! Each activity was exactly what we wanted and more. I look forward to using them in the future.
Read more
My son and I had the trip of a lifetime! Having Duncan and our local person to contact as well was the way to plan a trip. They helped us when weather unexpectedly changed our plans, they also made our trip exactly like we asked them too! Each activity was exactly what we wanted and more. I look forward to using them in the future.
Hotel Reviews
Blue Hotel Fagrilundur
Bláskógabyggd
Authenticity & Character
Nice place
Location
Close to the sites we were touring for the day
Cleanliness & Comfort
Nice place
Hotel Katla by Keahotels
Vík
Hótel Vestmannaeyjar
Vestmannaeyjar
Unfortunately we did not get to stay at this hotel, but if it was like any of the others, weather was the reason but they found us a great alternative!
Hótel Valaskjálf
Egilsstadir
Hotel Hvammstangi Guesthouse
Hvammstangi
Hotel Isafjördur
Ísafjörður
Fosshotel Westfjords
Patreksfjörður
Fosshotel Stykkisholmur
Stykkishólmur
Fosshótel Reykholt
Reykholt
Fosshotel Baron
Reykjavík
Berjaya Hotel Myvatn
Myvatn
Activity Reviews
The Geothermal Vok Baths
Iceland
The Vok Baths were a great place to unwind. At first, I was hesitant due to fatigue, but it turned out to be the perfect way to relax.
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Myrdalsjokull glacier snowmobiling
Iceland
Snowmobiling on the glacier was an unforgettable experience. Being from Wisconsin, snowmobiling isn't new, but doing it on a glacier was thrilling!
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Jokulsarlon glacier lagoon amphibian boat tour
Iceland
The tour was fascinating. We saw seals and got to touch a piece of iceberg that's thousands of years old. However, it was also a stark reminder of global warming.
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Husavik Whale Watching
Iceland
The whale watching was one of the highlights of the trip. We got to see whales up close, which was a fantastic experience.
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Local specialist: Duncan Campbell
Duncan Campbell
Local specialist in Italy
| Replied on Jun 20, 2023
Thanks so much for this glowing review, Julie, I'm so glad you and Jacob had a great experience.
Regards
Duncan
