Iceland Express
5 days
From
$ 1350
Duration5 days
Visit Iceland and see glaciers, geysers and geothermal hot springs. Travel to Iceland and delve into the ancient land of Vikings and volcanoes on this 5-day Icelandic adventure. Marvel at geothermal hot springs, witness the steamy eruptions of a giant geyser, touch the tongue of one of Europe's biggest glaciers and scale giant waterfalls. Travel through Iceland's desolate lands, so mysterious and ethereal that they have inspired artists, poets and musicians for centuries. The ancient, untamed beauty of Iceland will stay with you forever.
This tour is operated by
-
Duration: 5 daysService level: Basic
-
Physical Grading: Light
-
Ages: 15+
Tour Gallery
Itinerary
Day 1: Reykjavik
Hallo! Welcome to Iceland. The world's northernmost capital of Reykjavik lies just below the Arctic Circle. The city sees around four hours of sunlight a day in winter and 22 hours or more in summer. Surrounded by volcanic peaks and crystalline ocean, and boasting a vibrant arts and nightlife scene, Reykjavik's contrasts are utterly beguiling. Why not arrive early and head to the National Museum, which depicts the history of Iceland from the 9th century (when the first Vikings from mainland Scandinavia arrived and settled) to the present day, or join locals who gossip and chatter in the Laugardalslaug Geothermal Pool.
Day 2: Golden Circle / Hvolsvollur Valley
Head out of town early this morning to follow the route of the 'Golden Circle' and head out to Þingvellir National Park, home to the Parliament Plains. Þingvellir was the location of Iceland's first parliament, founded in 930 and ostensibly the world’s oldest, and is the location of the Silfra fissure, where the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates slowly pull apart. The resulting gap is partly filled with fresh water and is clearly visible. From here head to the Geysir geothermal area, checking out the Strokkur Geyser – get a thrill as the geyser swells with blue water before erupting and shooting a cloud of water some 20-30 metres in the air. Finally, be spellbound by the immense beauty and sheer power of the Gullfoss (Golden) double waterfall on the Hvita River, before proceeding to your guesthouse in the Hvolsvöllur region. The guesthouse is the leader in responsible tourism and sustainability in Iceland. Since the arrival of the first settlers to Iceland, deforestation has taken place in order to make space for pastures. Overgrazing has then led to soil erosion. With this in mind, the owners had the idea to start a tree planting project on their land to contribute to lowering CO2 and counteract soil erosion. You will have the option to join the effort and head out into the hills surrounding the property to plant trees yourself.
Meals: B
Day 3: Myrdalsjokull / South Coast / Reynivellir
Begin the day with a visit to a breathtaking waterfall, Skógafoss. Skógafoss is a giant of a waterfall, 25 metres wide and also dropping down 60 metres. You can get up close and feel its power, and also climb a (long) windy set of stairs up to a stunning viewpoint. Then you'll have the option take a walk on the tongue one of Europe's biggest ice caps – Myrdalsjokull – which has a multitude of glaciers flowing out from it, and is covering the active volcano Katla. No experience is necessary to partake in the hike. It’s sobering to think that the glacier is retreating due to rising world temperatures, and in some years the glacier may be gone. If you don't want to partake in the glacier walk you can explore the area around the glacier tongue where you can walk all the way up to the edge of the ice. Alternatively Skogafoss waterfall has a number of walking trails, or you can visit the Skogar folk museum. From here, continue along Iceland's beautiful South Shore to take in more of the country’s renowned natural wonders, spotting bird colonies on the promontory of Dyrhólaey, which is rich in birdlife and Iceland's southernmost point. You’ll also see the amazing stepping-stone rock formations of Reynisdrangar and its night black sand beach Reynisfjara. Continue to our overnight stop in the countryside near Reynivellir.
Day 4: Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon / Vik / Reykjavik
This morning visit one of Iceland's undisputed highlights, the glacier lagoon of Jökulsárlón. Perhaps embark on an optional cruise among the icebergs, or simply walk along the shore of the lagoon and down to the famous Diamond Beach, where icebergs from the lagoon wash up on the black sand beach. Later on today, journey on to the black sand seaside town of Vik for lunch. With the sea on one side and high cliffs on the other, this dramatically positioned quaint little village is Iceland's most southerly mainland settlement. In the afternoon it is time to head back to Reykjavik for a short guided walk of Reykjavik, visiting the old harbour, the city centre and the famous Hallgrimskirkja church. The evening is free for you to enjoy all the capital has to offer. Perhaps head out with your fellow travellers for a final meal.
Day 5: Reykjavik
Today is departure day and time to say 'sjaumst'. As there are no activities planned, you are able to depart the hotel at any time. If you wish to stay on in Reykjavik we are happy to book additional accommodation for you (subject to availability). Please speak to your travel agent at the time of booking. Iceland's capital has an eclectic arts and music scene, an abundance of quirky cafes and a laidback vibe. Perhaps browse some of the city's great art galleries. If you feel like something more active, you can take a ride on an Icelandic horse, or see killer whales just offshore on a whale watching expedition. Alternatively, while away the hours with a soak in the geothermal waters of the famous Blue Lagoon.
Meals: B
Inclusions
Included
- Golden Circle (Thingevellir National Park, Strokkur Geysir, Gullfoss Waterfall)
- Skogafoss Waterfall
- Dyrholaey & Reynisfjara Rocks
- Reykjavik Walking Tour
- Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon
-
Transport
Private minibus with free Wi-Fi -
Accommodation
Guesthouses & Farm Stays (4 nights)