Explore the rugged beauty of this North Atlantic island nation. For most people, the name Iceland conjures up little more than snow and ice. But it is much more than ice — in its sagas, puffins, glaciers, fjords, active volcanoes, lava fields and hot springs, you’ll find the perfect blend of nature, culture and history.
We begin in the sophisticated capital city of Reykjavik, and continue south along the scenic coast, taking in lava fields, hot springs and bird cliffs en route. See the remarkable Geysir, the geyser from which all geysers derive their name, and Hveravellir hot springs — an oasis of warmth amidst two interior glaciers. Experience the hospitality of Icelanders in the quaint coastal towns of Akureyri and Höfn, and enjoy an exciting whale watching trip from Husavik.
Onward to Lake Myvatn — world-famous for its bird life — where we spend time visiting fishing villages, exploring Asbyrgi National Park and marvelling at Dettifoss, one of Iceland’s most impressive waterfalls. Continue to the East Fjords — 18 million-year-old geological wonders carved out by glaciers during the last ice age. Drive along the Vatnajukoll icecap to the southeast coast where we visit Skaftafell National Park and a glacier lagoon. Accompanied by Icelandic mountain guides, explore the park’s surrounding glaciers and be introduced to the “world of ice” that few people know.
En route to Reykjavik, stop to view Dyrholaey — a natural 400-foot high rock arch over the Atlantic Ocean that serves as a nesting point for thousands of puffins, guillemots and kittiwakes. Finally, spend a day exploring the fascinating capital city of Reykjavik. An added bonus for those who venture this far north are the long hours of sunlight. This is the land of the midnight sun — with no mosquitoes. Paradise! Join us for our tour of this unique island in the North Atlantic. Enjoy commentary by expert guides and learn about European life in the Arctic Circle. |
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Day 1 Arrive in Keflavik, to Thingvellir
Day 2 Geyser, Gullfoss Waterfalls, glaciers and hot springs Day 3 Husavik — the whale watching center of Iceland
Day 4 Lake Myvatn: lava, ducks and craters
Day 5 Traditional Farming Heritage, Highland Desert and Fjords.
Day 6 South coast and the village of Höfn Day 7 Vatnajokull Icecap, Glacier Lagoon and Skaftafell National Park Day 8 Skaftafell National Park — glacial hikes, Svartifoss Waterfall Day 9 To Hveragerdi, Skogafoss Falls, Dyrholaey Rock arch and Seljalands Falls Day 10 Hot springs at Hveragerdi, city tour of Reykjavik
Accommodations
Comfortable hotels with private washrooms.
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