Reykjavík: Imagine Peace Tower
Discover Yoko Ono’s iconic Imagine Peace Tower on this 2-hour walking tour of Viðey Island.
Description & Booking
Description
On this 2 hour guided walking tour, you will learn all about the Imagine Peace Tower, a striking light installation by Yoko Ono in memory of 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 appear overhead!
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 it lit?
The tower is illuminated 1 hr. after sunset until midnight from 9 October until 8 December (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 a New Year, as well as on Yoko Ono's birthday and in the week of Spring Equinox. The ever-changing weather conditions on the island impact the strength, intensity and brilliance of the tower.
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.
Start Points
64.1513961, -21.9444449
Included
- Excellent live guidance
- Flashlight (if needed)
- Crampons (if needed)
- Ferry to and from island
Excluded
- Pick up / Drop off (available for an extra charge)
- Refreshments
Important Information
Departure schedule:
10 Oct - 8 Dec (on Fri+Sun) at 20:00
21, 22, 27, 28 & 30 Dec at 18:00
31 Dec at 16:00
18 Feb at 20:00
20-26 Mar at 21:00
This a small group tour that requires decent weather and a minimum number of participants in order to operate. In case of a cancellation, we will contact you as soon as possible, but advise you to check our website for updates.
Keep in mind that due to certain terrain challenges, the tour is not advisable for young children or individuals with mobility issues.
The wishing well can be seen (albeit unlit) during regular Viðey ferry operating hours. It is situated on a platform on Heimaey (Home Island), just behind Sjónarhóll hill.
Requirements
Please be sure to dress according to weather! We recommend sturdy footwear, thermal garments as well as a hat and gloves. We will provide headlamps and crampons if needed.