Length: 9 Days. Group educational tour to Iceland to study and many natural local landmarks (for 12 or more students or adults.) Self-designed custom tours typically led by teachers of high school juniors and seniors.
Highlights: Blue Lagoon, Aurora Borealis, Guided City Tour of Reykjavik, Whale-Watching Tour, Guided Tour of The Golden Circle, Þingvellir, Gulifoss Waterfall, Geothermal Strokkur Geysir, Seljalandsfoss & Skogafoss Waterfall, Sólheimajökull & Mýrdalsjökull Glaciers, Skaftafell National Park, Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon, Diamond Beach, Skaftafell Glacier, Svartifoss Waterfall, Blue Ice Cave & Glacier Hike Tour, Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon (amphibian boat tour,) Raufarholshellir Lava Tunnel, Snaefellsnes National Park, Snaefellsjokull
Itinerary: Reykjavik (2), Hella (1), Vik Village (1), Reykjavik (3)
Day 1 – USA - Reykjavik
Board your flight and journey to Iceland.
Day 2 – Reykjavik
Welcome to Iceland! Meet your coach and driver to transfer to the Blue Lagoon, a highly popular destination for visitors. Mineral-rich hot water from far beneath the earth forms the spectacular lagoon, where a luxurious health spa has been developed in the rugged lava landscape. The lagoon’s geothermal seawater is known for its positive effects on the skin. Enjoy the geothermal seawater and its active ingredients: Minerals, silica and algae. Transfer to your hotel in Reykjavik. Dinner at your hotel. Later this evening, discover the famous aurora borealis (northern lights) or perhaps reschedule on another evening depending on the sky conditions.
Day 3 – Reykjavik
This morning, begin your guided city tour including Reykjavik harbor, town hall, Hallgrimskirkja Church, the Presidential Residence at Bessastadir, the Fish Market and the University of Iceland. Depart on an exhilarating whale-watching tour to witness majestic whales breaching and frolicking in the wild.
Day 4 – Reykjavik - Hella
Begin your guided tour of The Golden Circle. A scenic drive covers about 300km looping from Reykjavík into central Iceland. The three primary stops on the route are the national park Þingvellir, the waterfall Gullfoss (meaning “golden falls”), and the geothermally active valley of Haukadalur, which contains the geysers Geysir and Strokkur. Though Geysir has been inactive for a long time, Strokkur, on the other hand, continues to erupt at 5–10 minutes intervals. Continue to Gulifoss Waterfall and Geysir Geothermal Strokkur. On to Hella for overnight.
Day 5 – Hella - Vik Village
After breakfast, depart for your further exploration of the Golden Circle. Stopping at Seljalandsfoss Waterfall and Skogafoss Waterfall offers visitors a chance to witness Iceland’s most iconic cascades, where the impressive size and breathtaking scenery provide perfect photo opportunities. Additionally, visit Sólheimajökull and Mýrdalsjökull glaciers for an up-close experience with stunning ice formations. Optional: Ride snowmobiles for 3 hours on the glacier* or an ice walk on the glacier. Continue to Dyrholaey and Reynisfjara Black Sand Beaches and spend the night at Vik Villlage.
Day 6 – Vik Village - Reykjavik
Depart for Skaftafell National Park, Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon and Diamond Beach. At the majestic Skaftafell Glacier, we embark on a guided walk through lush birch forests, rocky terrain, and scenic viewpoints, with panoramic vistas of the glacier and surrounding mountains. The trail is moderately challenging and is marked by vibrant flora and fauna. Arrive at the breathtaking sight of Svartifoss Waterfall. Optional: Blue Ice Cave & Glacier Hike Tour (crampons and all equipment and professional guide included). Continue to Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon for an amphibian boat tour. On to Reykfavik.
Day 7 – Reykjavik
This morning, explore the Raufarholshellir Lava Tunnel. Enjoy this magnificent lava tunnel, one of the longest and best know lava tunnels in Iceland. Spend the rest of the day with the group at your leisure.
Day 8 – Reykjavik
Full day excursion with your guide to Snaefellsnes National Park. In the middle of the Peninsula sits Snaefellsjokull, the stunning glacier and fishing village of Arnarstapi. Gain real insight into quintessential volcanic craters. On to visit Djupalonssandur Bay, which is a favorite among photographers.
Day 9 – Reykjavik - USA
Private transfer to the airport this morning for your return flight back to the U.S. with many new memories of your wonderful adventures in Iceland!