Tour Booking Frauds
Fake Northern Lights Tour Offers
In Iceland, scammers pose as legitimate tour operators on platforms like Facebook groups or at bus stops in Reykjavik, offering discounted Northern Lights tours for around 5,000 ISK per person. They collect payment upfront via cash or bank transfer, then fail to show up, often vanishing after the season starts in September. This scam exploits the high demand for aurora viewings in remote areas like Thingvellir National Park.
- Book only through licensed operators like those affiliated with Iceland's official tourism board, recognizable by their .is domain and VAT numbers.
- Use credit cards for payments to enable chargebacks, as Icelandic banks offer protection for fraudulent transactions up to 30 days.
- Verify tour details with the Icelandic Tourist Board website, which lists authentic providers and warns about unverified ads in English or Icelandic phrases like 'ókeypis' for free deals that are scams.
Glacier Tour Overbooking Scams
Operators in Iceland overbook glacier hiking or ice cave tours, such as those near Vatnajökull National Park, by selling tickets through unofficial apps or street vendors in Reykjavik for 10,000-15,000 ISK. They cancel last-minute citing weather, but resell spots at higher prices, leaving tourists stranded without refunds and forcing them to pay extra for alternative transport back.
- Check for official certifications from the Association of Icelandic Mountain Guides before booking, ensuring guides speak Icelandic or English fluently.
- Purchase through reputable sites like Viator or GetYourGuide, which comply with Icelandic consumer laws requiring full refunds for cancellations.
- Monitor weather via the Icelandic Meteorological Office app and avoid deals offered in ISK cash-only to prevent non-traceable transactions.
Rental Car Damage Claims
Fabricated Vehicle Damage Charges
In Iceland, car rental companies at Keflavik Airport or Reykjavik outlets like Hertz or Avis claim pre-existing damages on returned vehicles, charging extras up to 50,000 ISK for minor scratches allegedly found after inspection. They use photos taken post-return and exploit the Ring Road's gravel roads to blame tourists for normal wear.
- Document the car's condition with photos and videos upon pickup, noting any existing damages in the rental agreement in Icelandic.
- Opt for companies that are members of the Icelandic Car Rental Association, which mandates transparent inspections and limits extra charges.
- Use credit cards that offer rental insurance coverage, as Icelandic law requires companies to provide detailed receipts in ISK for any disputed claims.