Wonders of Iceland - Itinerary
See all that Iceland has to offer – from geysers and hot springs to thundering waterfalls and dramatic lava fields. Thanks to the Gulf Stream Iceland enjoys a relatively temperate climate, and while it possesses its share of glaciers and snow-peaked mountains it also boasts fertile pastures, sand flats, and glacial rivers. Admire the mighty two-tiered Gullfoss Waterfall located in the canyon of Hvita, and enjoy a swim in the pleasantly warm, mineral-rich water of the famous Blue Lagoon.
In the capital city of Reykjavik, see important sites such as the 19th-century Parliament House, Austurvollur Square, and the Hofoi House. Near Skogar, visit a nearby traditional horse farm to learn how Iceland’s horses are directly descended from those brought here by the Vikings and how Iceland is preserving this heritage. Take a memorable boat trip floating among graceful icebergs, and perhaps take part in an optional whale-watching or “Super Jeep” glacier excursion.
The sequence of touring and days may be altered to adjust to religious holidays, special closings of sites, air schedule changes, etc. Hotels listed subject to availability. Meal inclusions may vary by departure.
Day 1: Overnight Flight
Day 2: Reykjavik, Iceland
Your tour begins in Reykjavik, where you embark on a fascinating city tour that highlights such important sites as the 19th-century Parliament House, Austurvollur Square, the Hofoi House, and Tjornin Lake. Visit the National Museum of Iceland where new and dynamic exhibitions increase your knowledge of Icelandic cultural heritage, from the nation´s earliest settlement through to the modern day. Gather this evening for a welcome reception and dinner. (D)
Day 3: Reykjavik - Reykjanes Peninsula - Reykjavik
During a full-day excursion, explore the scenic landscape of the Reykjanes Peninsula, stopping at Bessastadir, an ancient Viking site that is now the official residence of the current president. Continue to Lake Kleifarvatn to see an amazing display of geothermal activity, including steaming fumaroles, hot springs and mud pots. Conclude your day at the famous Blue Lagoon, a natural geothermal pool in the middle of a large, dramatic lava field. Enjoy time to relax and/or take a swim in this pleasantly warm, mineral-rich water. (B)
Day 4: Reykjavik - Golden Circle - Vik
Travel to the "Golden Circle" which encompasses many of Iceland's most renowned natural scenic wonders. Thingvellir National Park is Iceland's most historic site and one of its most beautiful places. The oldest existing parliament in the world first met here in AD 930. The park also features the geologically significant Mid-Atlantic Ridge, where the American and European tectonic plates meet. Continue to the amazing hot springs of Geysir, then marvel at one of the island's greatest natural wonders, the two-tiered Gullfoss Waterfall. Continue south to the town of Vik, a small town set along Iceland's dramatic southern coast, where black sand beaches, crashing waves, and towering figures of black rock form an unforgettable sight. (B,D)
Day 5: Vik - Skaftafell National Park - Vik
Begin the day at Skaftafell National Park, a beautiful green oasis located near the highest peak in Iceland. Later, an unforgettable boat trip* amid graceful, floating icebergs serves as an introduction to Iceland's dramatic glaciers and is the perfect opportunity to see many species of birds. (B,D)
Day 6: Vik - Reykjavik
On your trip back to Reykjavik, travel across fertile pastures, sand flats and glacial rivers en route to Skogar, a small settlement located next to a magnificent waterfall. Visit Skogar's Folk Museum, which houses an interesting collection of Icelandic artifacts. Next, stop at a traditional Icelandic horse farm. Learn how Iceland's horses are directly descended from those brought by the Vikings and how Iceland is preserving this heritage. (B)
Day 7: Reykjavik
Today is at leisure to explore the capital city of Iceland with its many art galleries and museums. You may choose to join an optional whale watching or "Super Jeep" glacier excursion. During the "Super Jeep" excursion you will travel on top of Iceland's Langjökull Glacier. Gather for a farewell dinner this evening. (B,D)
Day 8: Reykjavik - Tour Concludes
Your tour ends, leaving you with many pleasant memories of a wonderful vacation. (B)
