Elís Orri Guðbjartsson

What places and activities do you specialize in?

"I specialize in Iceland, Northern Norway, Greenland, and Svalbard. Although primarily in sailings, both day tours and longer sailings, I have a comprehensive knowledge of all the wonders found in Iceland. "

How did you get involved in travel?

"I've always been fond of the Icelandic nature. Hiking, trekking, and sleeping under the stars during the 'warm' Icelandic summers has been a preferred pastime of mine. Therefore, I've gotten familiar with Iceland, both on and off the beaten track.

After finishing college, my best friend and I decided to backpack around the world for nearly six months. With less than 20kg in our backpacks, we set off from Iceland making our way through four continents before returning back home. It's so eye-opening traveling the world, exposing oneself to different cultures and customs. While on the road, we were fortunate enough to make friends all over the world.

Although I didn't travel as much as I would've liked internationally during my Bachelor's and later Master's, I'm finally able to re-pack my backpack and discover other places in the world! Additionally, working for North Sailing I get to utilize my extensive sailing knowledge and focus on sailings East Greenland, Svalbard and Northern Norway. "

Please share a unique travel experience you will never forget.

"During my travels in New Zealand, I stayed for a couple of days in a small cabin near the Tongariro National Park on the North Island. Although National Park is renowned as the 'Mount Doom' from Lord of the Rings, the scenic neighboring area made the experience so much more memorable. After having completed trekking through the National Park, I decided to hike towards a nearby waterfall. Once at the waterfall, swimming in the cold but refreshing water, I felt like time and place stood still. Feeling alone in the world, the wind playing with my hair and the water keeping my afloat, I knew I would pursue this feeling for the rest of my life. "