Day 1 : Fly to Iceland

Depart the USA for a restful overnight flight to Iceland.

Day 2 : Arrive in Iceland

We arrive early morning and enjoy a group breakfast. Afterward, we begin our exploration in the Land of Fire and Ice at FlyOver Iceland. Experience the ultimate introduction to this beautiful country with motion seating and a wraparound screen, simulating a flight over expansive mountains and glaciers. We also gaze upon the colorful, shimmering exterior of Harpa Concert Hall, take in beautiful panoramas of Reykjavik from the Perlan observation deck, and enjoy stunning views from the city’s best-known landmark, Hallgrimskirkja Church. Later, we check in to our hotel then gather for a fantastic Welcome Dinner and get to know our traveling companions.

Day 3 : Reykjavik

After breakfast, we’re off to enjoy more city sights of Reykjavik. Though one of the smallest capital cities in the world, it is brimming with adventures! Learn about the aurora borealis at Aurora Reykjavik and view Parliament, one of the oldest stone buildings in Iceland. Next, we descend under Whale Bay through an undersea tunnel to Folk Museum in Akranes where we view a vast collection of architecture, maritime exhibits, and artifacts. We then see Europe’s most powerful hot spring, Deildartunguhver, which provides water and geothermal heat for much of the area. Today’s adventure concludes with visiting two incredibly unique waterfalls: Hraunfossar, several creeks cascading down a wall of lava rocks creating a spectacular display of colors; and Barnafoss, cutting deep through a narrow canyon and steeped in mystery and folklore. Before dinner together this evening, we check in to our hotel for the next two nights, the perfect location to hunt for northern lights dancing above.

Day 4 : Breidafjordur Bay

Following breakfast, we travel to Stykkisholmur, a gateway city to several islands in Breidafjordur Bay. We embark on a maritime escapade, passing by hundreds of tiny islands and viewing quaint fishing villages. Revel in the opportunity to experience Viking sushi, where a large selection of shellfish is pulled straight from the pristine waters for tasting. Arriving at Arnarstapi, we walk along incredible stacked columnar basalt rock formations. We then visit Snaefellsjokull National Park to gaze upon the variety of landscapes, from moss-blanketed lava fields to jagged cliffs and pebbled beaches. We bid the bay farewell, then head back to our hotel for dinner and relaxation. Tonight, we have another opportunity to discover the mysterious aurora borealis.

Day 5 : Golden Circle of Natural Wonders

Today is brimming with history and extraordinary marvels, starting with the Golden Circle of Natural Wonders. Experience the power of Gullfoss Waterfall as glacial water thunders down a rugged canyon and stroll through Geysir Hot Springs area, packed with bubbling mud pits and explosive geysers including Strokkur, which spouts water 100 feet into the air like clockwork. Another highlight is Thingvellir National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the world’s oldest ongoing parliament. Observe the dramatic landscape as it displays how the North American and Eurasian continental plates meet, creating geological phenomena such as bulging lava fields and glacial pools. We then learn about Iceland’s important dairy history while tasting regional delights at Efstidalur dairy farm, followed by a special lunch at Fridheimar farm. Afterward, we see how tomatoes are grown in greenhouses year-round and learn about the fascinating gaits of the famed Icelandic horses. We stay in the Hveragerdi region this evening and gaze upward for views of the spectacular aurora borealis.

Day 6 : Reykjanes Seacoast & Blue Lagoon

Rise and shine for a spectacular coastal drive along Reykjanes Peninsula, a UNESCO Global Geopark. Here we witness the Mid-Atlantic Ridge, the only place in the world it is visible above sea level. Afterward, we visit Iceland’s most popular attraction, the Blue Lagoon. Soak in the mineral-rich seawater, naturally a constant 102°F. Don’t miss out on the included silica mud mask or experiencing the geothermal massage waterfall. We leave the Blue Lagoon feeling refreshed and energized. Lunch this afternoon is in the fishing town of Grindavik, followed by sights of Lake Kleifarvatn, uniquely filled entirely by underground water. Later, we return to Reykjavik and enjoy a Farewell Dinner.

Day 7 : Fly Home

We return home with fond memories of our adventures in Iceland.