Enjoy a peaceful evening dedicated to Yoko Ono and John Lennon’s continuing campaign for world peace. The tour unites history, art and nature and is set on the beautiful Viðey island, mere minutes from Reykjavík by boat.

Itenerary

On this 2 hour guided walking tour, you will learn all about the Imagine Peace Tower, a striking light installation created by Yoko Ono, in memory of her late husband John Lennon, and their ongoing campaign for world peace. You’ll also discover the island’s important trading history, artwork, and nature. The Reykjavík skyline and its surrounding area is not to be missed, and if you’re lucky, you might even get a chance to see the northern lights!

What is the Imagine Peace Tower?
The Imagine Peace Tower is more than a work of art; it’s a testament to human aspiration and it symbolises John Lennon and Yoko Ono’s continuing campaign for world peace. Designed in the form of a tranquil wishing well, its sides are adorned with the inscription “IMAGINE PEACE” in 24 languages and stands as a powerful reminder that peace knows no borders. When darkness descends, the tower comes alive with a mesmerising display of light. The beams, stemming from several lights, are ingeniously guided through mirrored corridors. They then ascend to meet the ever-changing Icelandic elements in a unique way!

The environmental sustainability of the Imagine Peace Tower is in perfect harmony with the principles it embodies. All the power to illuminate this radiant beacon is provided by Reykjavik Energy, harnessing geothermal energy which is a clean, renewable source of power. Collaboration was key to the tower’s creation, with Yoko Ono, the City of Reykjavik, Reykjavik Art Museum, and Reykjavik Energy all playing a role in its inception. It’s a testament to the power of collective action in the pursuit of a shared dream.

When is the Imagine Peace Tower lit?
The tower is illuminated from 9 October until 8 December which marks John Lennon’s birthday and day of demise. From Winter Solstice the beam can be seen lighting up the night sky into the morning of the New Year, as well as on Yoko Ono’s birthday and during the week of Spring Equinox. The ever-changing weather conditions on the island impact the strength, intensity and brilliance of the tower, making every experience unique.

Watch a live stream of the Imagine Peace Tower as seen from Skarfabakki pier in Reykjavík.

Feel free to contact us directly for group bookings via tel: +354 519 5000 or at sales@elding.is.

Meeting Type

To be arranged in advance

Meeting Place

Úgisgarður 5c, 101 Reykjavík (Check-in and boarding)

Ticket Text

Short description

Enjoy an evening stroll on Viðey Island, uniting history, nature, and art. The Imagine Peace tour is a guided evening tour dedicated to Yoko Ono’s Imagine Peace Tower and her and John Lennon’s continuing campaign for world peace.

Good to know

The walk is relatively easy but it may involve a short steep climb to a viewing platform. The weather can change quickly so please be prepared for all conditions, we recommend wearing good sturdy footwear, a good warm jacket, thermals, hat, scarf and gloves. Listen to the Ballad of John and Yoko.

Tour area

The Imagine Peace Tour is focused on “Heimaey” area on Viðey Island where the peace tower stands. On the way we make stops on Sjönerhöll hill, Viðey church and walk up close to the IMAGINE PEACE TOWER.

FAQ

What is the IMAGINE PEACE TOWER?
The IMAGINE PEACE TOWER is an outdoor work of art conceived by Yoko Ono in memory of John Lennon. It is composed of a tall shimmering tower of light, a wishing well that the light comes out of and a beautiful platform.

What does the Imagine Peace Tour include?
The Imagine Peace Tour is a guided walk towards the IMAGINE PEACE TOWER. The tour includes the round trip ferry, a guided walk and hot cocoa on the way back. The tour gives great photo opportunities; the IMAGINE PEACE TOWER itself is very picturistic and from the island there is beautiful view of Reykjavík city in its evening lights.

What should I bring?
It is important to dress according to weather and wear good shoes, as this is a guided walk and involves a little hiking. Many guests join the tour to photograph the IMAGINE PEACE TOWER and a tripod comes in handy for those.

When is the IMAGINE PEACE TOWER lit?
Every year the IMAGINE PEACE TOWER is ignited an hour after sunset between 9 October (Lennon’s day of birth) and 8 December (Lennon’s passing). In addition it lights up the evening sky from winter solstice into the New Year, on Yoko Ono’s birthday, for one week during spring equinox and on special occasions agreed upon by Yoko Ono and the City of Reykjavík.

Why is the IMAGINE PEACE TOWER in Iceland?
It was Yoko Ono’s own decision to have the IMAGINE PEACE TOWER built in Iceland because, in her own words, “Iceland is a peaceful country and without an army”. The power used to generate the IMAGINE PEACE TOWER comes from the geothermal power plant Hellisheiðarvirkjun and she was quite fond of the idea of green energy for the peace tower. At last we could mention Iceland’s location, right between Europe and N-America, very convenient.

Can I see Yoko Ono there?
Maybe. In general Yoko Ono isn’t often there but every year since IMAGINE PEACE TOWER’s inauguration Yoko Ono has been in Reykjavík on 9 October to see it lit. In 2007, 2011, 2012, 2013 and 2014 she was present on Viðey Island during the inauguration and re-lighting.

How should I dress for the tour?
The weather can change quickly so please be prepared for all conditions, we recommend wearing good sturdy footwear, a good warm jacket, thermals, hat, scarf and gloves.

Do you sell any refreshments on board?
No we don’t sell refreshment on this tour. We however offer our guests a complimentary hot cocoa after the outing.

Are there toilets on board?
Since this tour is mainly an outdoor activity we recommend using toilet facilities at the Whale Watching Centre before the tour departs.

Do you offer wheelchair access?
Unfortunately the island and the facilities at the island are not wheelchair accessible.

Do you offer hotel pick up?
Yes we offer pick up and drop off at hotels and guesthouses in Reykajvík area for an additional charge.

Is there parking close by?
Yes, about 300 m from our ticket office there is a large gravel parking lot where you can park free of charge. GPS: N64°09′08″ W21°56′55″ / N64 09.141 W21 56.926

My tour was cancelled. What do I do next?
The Elding team happily advises and assists you to find a new departure date if possible when the weather conditions are better. No charge is made on our behalf if you cannot join our tour due to cancellation of the tour.

Vendor

Elding Adventure at Sea

Difficulty Level

Moderate

Duration

2 hours

Price

£97.03

Adventures Globally

Iceland, Reykjavik, ReykjaviK Imagine Peace Tower Tour Experience

Verified Listing

Iceland, Reykjavik, ReykjaviK Imagine Peace Tower Tour Experience

Login