G Adventures: Signature: Iceland's Winterscapes, Golden Circle & Northern Lights
Day 1: Reykjavik/Selfoss
Welcome to Iceland. Your expedition begins as you touch down on this volcanic island, greeted by crisp Arctic air.You will be met and transferred to Reykjavík, for an introductory gathering with your fellow travellers, National Geographic Expedition Leader and National Geographic Expedition Expert. From here, venture into the landscapes of Þingvellir National Park to walk between the towering tectonic plates of North America and Eurasia. Next, visit an innovative geothermal greenhouse farm. Learn about zero-waste, earth-powered agriculture before sitting down to a fresh farm-to-table lunch. Settle into your countryside lodging this afternoon. This evening, enjoy a welcome dinner highlighting sustainable local flavours.
Day 2: Selfoss
Under the soft mantle of Nordic winter darkness, visit Sólheimar Ecovillage to learn about this pioneering community's self-sufficiency. From there, head into the volatile heart of the Golden Circle. Witness the Geysir geothermal field, where the restless Strokkur geyser violently ejects boiling columns into the crisp air. Nearby, watch the thundering Gullfoss waterfall plunge dramatically into an icy canyon. Conclude at Laugarvatn Fontana, baking traditional rye bread in the geothermally heated earth before a relaxing soak in lakeside thermal baths. In the evening, venture into the dark with your Expedition Leader to scan the skies for the dancing green ribbons of the elusive aurora borealis.
Day 3: Selfoss/Hella
Feel the ground hum as you plunge into the restless forces shaping Iceland's volatile crust. Descend into a pioneering geothermal power plant to examine the brilliant innovations and cutting-edge technology shaping the future of green energy.Transition from modern technology to raw geology as you step into the cool, silent sanctuary of a subterranean volcanic lava tube. Follow your Expedition Leader along the ancient pathways of underground fire, where specialised illumination reveals spectacular frozen rivers of multi-hued basaltic rock. Afterward, travel to the steaming geothermal valley of Hveragerði, where you have free time for lunch on your own before returning to your hotel to enjoy dinner.
Day 4: Hella
Travel along the dramatic southern coast, where the raw power of ice and rock takes centre stage. Stand before Seljalandsfoss waterfall as glacial meltwaters from Eyjafjallajökull glacier cascade down an ancient, moss-draped cliffside. Continue to the thunderous torrent of Skógafoss, feeling the cool mist from its immense hydraulic power. Following a lunch of local seasonal flavours, step through a living portal of Icelandic resilience at the Skógar Museum. Explore historic turf houses and delicate artefacts that reveal how early settlers survived this unforgiving landscape. After a rest at the hotel, join your Expedition Leader for a nocturnal search for the shifting colours of the aurora borealis.
Day 5: Hella
Uncover the fiery heart of the island at an interactive lava centre. Alongside a volcanologist, analyse the powerful seismic forces that drive iconic peaks like Hekla, Katla, and Eyjafjallajökull. Head to a heritage horse farm for a private session that illuminates living history. Meet purebred Icelandic horses, learning how their unique genetics have been intertwined with the human saga since the days of early settlement. Return to the hotel for some downtime before gathering for a farewell dinner and presentation decoding the science of the aurora borealis and celebrating an amazing time in Iceland.
Day 6: Hella/Reykjavik
Savour a final breakfast as the frost-dusted countryside catches the soft morning light, then transfer to the airport for your onward travel.
Reykjavik
The fire, frost and water symbolized by the red, white and blue of Iceland’s flag are manifested in this land. Reykjavik, or Smoky Bay, was so named in 874 A.D. by Ingolf Arnarson when he sighted the numerous hot springs on the Seltjarnarnes Peninsula. Today this remarkably pollution-free city is wrapped around a sweeping bay and has managed to retain its charming Old-World atmosphere. A pastiche of red-blue-and green-roofed houses together with the tall gray tower of Hallgrim’s Church dominate the skyline. In Old Town, many of the wooden buildings have been lovingly restored and stand side by side with modern timber and concrete structures. There are fine museums and art galleries; historic pubs present activity in late afternoon. The beautiful countryside outside of Reykjavik includes such natural wonders as volcanoes, geysers, glaciers, mountains and spectacular waterfalls.
Excursions
Reykjavik - The Golden Circle - FD Tour
Reykjavik - The Golden Circle - FD Tour
Capture the ‘The Big Three’ on this classic excursion to Gullfoss Waterfall, Geysir Strokkur and Thingvellir National Park.
From Reykjavík you will drive over the Mosfellsheidi heath to beautiful Thingvellir National Park, a place of tremendous interest as a primary site of both Iceland’s geological and historical heritage. In 2004 the site of Thingvellir was inscribed on UNESCO’s World Heritage List. On this tour you get the opportunity to walk through the geological fault known as Almannagja - the place where Europe’s oldest national legislative assembly, the Icelandic Althing, was established in the year 930AD, and where it convened in grandiose surroundings every summer for nearly eight centuries. After your walk in Thingvellir, the tour continues over the Lyngdalsheidi heath into the fertile farmlands of the south, to visit the most beautiful waterfall of the country, Gullfoss. Nearby, you’ll also stop at the Geysir geothermal area with its multitude of hot springs, where the most active one, Strokkur, spouts every few minutes. Return to Reykjavik through the Grimsnes region.
Tour Duration: 7-8 hours
Tour can operate: Morning
Wheelchair Accessible: Yes - however some rough grounds
Physical Activity Level: Moderate
Included: Private car with driver-guide Pick up/drop off at the port.
Not Included: Meals
Reykjavik - Bathing in the Blue Lagoon - HD Tour
Reykjavik - Bathing in the Blue Lagoon - HD Tour
Here guests can enjoy a relaxing bathe in the surreal milky waters of Iceland’s most famous of geothermal Spas – The Blue Lagoon. So what exactly IS the Blue Lagoon? Well, it is Iceland's most unique and popular attraction. Guests will enjoy bathing and relaxing in Blue Lagoon geothermal seawater, known for its positive effects on the skin. A visit to the spa promotes harmony between body, mind and spirit, and enables one to soak away the stresses of modern life. The spa's guests rekindle their relationship with nature, soak up the scenic beauty and enjoy breathing the clean, fresh air. In addition to bathing in the lagoon guests have access to a sauna with a view of the lagoon, a sauna with white walls that resemble silica mud and a cozy steam bath carved into a lava cave. Of course, guests bathing in the milky waters of the lagoon have easy access to the famous white silica mud, an essential part of this ultimate in spa experiences.
Tour Duration: 3-4 hours
Tour can operate: Morning or Afternoon
Wheelchair Accessible: Yes
Physical Activy Level: Easy
Included: Private car with driver-guide, Blue Lagoon Comfort Experience (entrance fee, towel rental, Silica Mud Mask, choice of one drink at the Lagoon.) Pick up/drop off at the port.
Not Included: Meals
Reykjavik - Langjökull Glacier & the Ice Tunnel
Reykjavik - Langjökull Glacier & the Ice Tunnel
Experience Iceland's stunning natural topography in an exhilarating new way during this full-day, off-road adventure on the Langjökull Glacier. Start out early morning on a four-wheel-drive tour into Reykjavík’s hinterland. We drive through the tunnel of Hvalfjordur to the Borgarfjordur area. Watch for the historical home of the famed Icelandic historian and law speaker Snorri Sturluson, author of Snorra Edda. Along the way you will see the lava waterfalls of Hraunfossar and Barnafoss. Turning off the paved road you will travel into the gravel desert of Kaldidalur to Langjökull glacier were your driver will drive out onto the icecap to the entrance of the ice tunnel. After about 50 minutes in the glacier our return journey takes us through the Kaldidalur or “Cold Valley” which offers spectacular views of the surrounding glaciers and their imposing landscapes. Our last stop will be at Thingvellir, the most significant historical and geological site in Iceland where in 930 AD the Vikings formed Althingi - the oldest still-existing parliament in the world. In 2004 the site of Thingvellir was inscribed on UNESCO’s World Heritage List. We then drive directly from Thingvellir to Reykjavik.
Wear/Bring: Warm clothes for cold weather, waterproof/warm coat and suitable footwear
Tour Duration: 11-12 hours
Tour can operate: Mornings
Wheelchair Accessible: No
Physical Activity Level: Moderate / Strenuous
Included: Transportation by private 4x4 super jeep with driver-guide. Pick up/drop off at the port.
Not Included: Meals
Reykjavik Highlights - HD Tour
Reykjavik Highlights - HD Tour
Reykjavík is the world's most northerly capital, with more than one third of Iceland’s population. Today Reykjavík is a modern city with a variety of restaurants, museums, galleries and theatres. Visit the most important sights of the city, including the Old Town, the city cathedral, Hallgrimskirkja church and the “Pearl” (no entrance fees included in this tour).
Add ons:
- A visit to the open-air museum of Arbaer Travel back to Reykjavik’s past with a visit to a fascinating collection of town and farm buildings from the last few centuries.
- A visit to the Pearl vantage point. The new Perlan is an exciting interactive exhibition about Iceland’s nature and geology. Entrance includes the “Wonders of Iceland Exhibit (including Glaciers and Ice Cave) and the 360° Observation Deck.
- Hallgrimskirkja Church Climb the tower of this iconic church for a beautiful view over the city and sea. (Tower access closed during church services and some events)
- A visit to the National museum The National Museum of Iceland’s permanent exhibition, Making of a Nation - Heritage and History in Iceland, provides insight into the history of the Icelandic nation from the Norse Settlement to the present day. The exhibition includes about 2.000 objects.
Tour Duration: 3-4 hours
Tour can operate: Morning or Afternoon
Wheelchair Accessible: No - Arbaer museum is not accessible
Physical Activity Level: Easy
Included: Private car with driver-guide, Pick up/drop off at the port.
Not Included: Meals and entrance fees (optional)
Reykjavik Blue Lagoon experience with transfers – 4 Hours
Reykjavik Blue Lagoon experience with transfers – 4 Hours
In the southwest corner of Iceland is the Reykjanes peninsula, less than 1-hour drive from the capital or 20-minute drive from Keflavik International Airport.
There the Mid-Atlantic Ridge comes ashore. The nature is magnificent. Various volcanic formations are found on Reykjanes Peninsula, such as mountains and hills chiefly made of volcanic tuff, large and small lava flows plus different types of volcanoes and volcanic edifices. The Reykjanes peninsula volcanic zone is a direct continuance of the North Atlantic Ridge that surfaces from the ocean at Reykjanes, and it is home to many important geological formations, some of which are utterly unique, including numerous types of volcanoes, naturally carved pools, craters, and geothermal pools.
Few things are cozier than relaxing in a hot pool in the middle of nature. Iceland has an abundance of easily accessible natural pools, but it is perhaps the Blue Lagoon the most spectacular of them all.
The Blue Lagoon was founded in 1992. Its specialty is the geothermal sea, which is two thirds of salt water and one third of fresh water. It is found at a depth of up to 2000 meters and is led by a pipe from the source to the lagoon where guests can enjoy it and relax. It is rich in minerals, silica, and algae, which is the basis of all skin products in the Blue Lagoon.
National Geographic has chosen the Blue Lagoon as one of the 25 wonders of the world. The Blue Lagoon has developed into an experience company based on spas, research and development, skin care, hotels, and restaurants
Treat yourself and experience it during your stay in Reykjavik. Alternatively, this is the ultimate way to unwind and chill after or prior a long-haul flight when you arrive of depart to / from Iceland.
What to expect: Landmarks of natural wonders of the country, insight into geology, relaxation.
Basis: Private tour.
Start / End: City center Hotel or address or Keflavik International Airport.
Duration: 4 hours.
Vehicle: 01st Class.
Guide: English-speaking driver guide. Other languages on request.
Entrances: Comfort entrance to Blue Lagoon with use of the towel, mud mask and first drink at your choice.
Meals: None.
Physical activity level: Grade Easy. Walking required over uneven surfaces.
Wheelchair accessible: NO
Tour operates: morning, afternoon.
Notes: Tour program may be reversed for logistic / planning purposes.
Reykjavik Blue Lagoon & Reykjanes Peninsula – 8 Hours
Reykjavik Blue Lagoon & Reykjanes Peninsula – 8 Hours
In the southwest corner of Iceland is the Reykjanes peninsula, less than 1-hour drive from the capital or 20-minute drive from Keflavik International Airport.
Explore the Reykjanes peninsula and visit the Blue Lagoon. This geothermal area includes solfataras, fumaroles, mud pots and hot springs and sulphur was mined there early in the 18th century and then again in the 19th century. Gunnuhver is the largest mud geyser in Iceland, about 20 metres wide. Grindavik, the small fishing village with about 3000 inhabitants, has a long history, including when pirates from Morocco and Algeria arrived in the 17th century and took fifteen residents to sell as slaves. Additionally, we will take in the magnificent coastline and dramatic breaking waves by the Reykjanes lighthouse and “The Bridge Between the Continents” which connects the American and Eurasian tectonic plates.
Few things are cozier than relaxing in a hot pool in the middle of nature. Iceland has an abundance of easily accessible natural pools, but it is perhaps the Blue Lagoon the most spectacular of them all.
Treat yourself and experience it during your stay in Reykjavik. Alternatively, this is the ultimate way to unwind and chill after or prior a long-haul flight when you arrive of depart to / from Iceland.
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What to expect: Landmarks of natural wonders of the country, insight into local history and geology, relaxation. Coastal villages.
Basis: Private tour.
Start / End: City center Hotel or address or Keflavik International Airport.
Duration: 8 hours.
Vehicle: 01st Class.
Guide: English-speaking driver guide. Other languages on request.
Entrances: Comfort entrance to Blue Lagoon with use of the towel, mud mask and first drink at your choice.
Meals: None.
Physical activity level: Grade Easy. Walking required over uneven surfaces.
Wheelchair accessible: NO
Tour operates: morning, afternoon.
Notes: Tour program may be reversed for logistic / planning purposes.
Reykjavik Golden Circle Classic – 8 Hours
Reykjavik Golden Circle Classic – 8 Hours
Iceland’s main attraction is the Golden Circle, it combines most of what Iceland has to offer, beautiful landscape, powerful geysers and the most magnificent waterfall. The highlights of the tour are Thingvellir National Park, the Geysir area and the Gullfoss waterfall.
This tour is designed to let you explore the highlights of Golden Circle route. We will show you sights that are not marked on a map, and only the locals know about. We will start the tour by heading to Þingvellir, a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Thingvellir, 50 km (31 miles) to the east of Reykjavík, is the national shrine of Iceland and its most historic site, and one of its most beautiful places. The oldest existing parliament in the world first met here in AD930. It has always been the focal point for the country, and whenever a major event is to be celebrated, thousands of people come here.
We continue the Golden Circle by heading to the famous Geysir geothermal area which is home to The Great Geysir and its active sidekick Strokkur! Although the original Geysir is not predictably active, its neighbour, Strokkur, will erupt every 5-7 minutes - so have your camera ready.
We then drive a few minutes down the road to the most famous part of the Golden Circle: Gullfoss, or “Golden Falls “. To stand at Gullfoss and bask in the beauty and the wonder of nature is an uplifting experience. One certainly feels energized after this tour and contact with stunning nature.
During the tour, a delicious lunch will be offered at the local geothermal tomato farm, a unique venue for a special lunch.
,What to expect: Stunning scenery, landmarks of the natural wonders of the country, insight into local history.
Basis: Private tour.
Start / End: City center Hotel or address.
Duration: 8 hours.
Vehicle: 01st Class.
Guide: English-speaking driver guide. Other languages on request.
Entrances: Greenhouse visit.
Meals: Lunch at Geothermal farm.
Physical activity level: Grade Easy. Walking required over uneven surfaces.
Wheelchair accessible: no
Tour can operate: morning and afternoon.
Notes: Tour program may be reversed for logistic / planning purposes.
Reykjavik South Shore Adventure – 10 Hours
Reykjavik South Shore Adventure – 10 Hours
We take you along the south coast of Iceland, one of the country’s most scenic regions, as far as Vík, a charming village surrounded by high beautiful bird cliffs.
Among the stops on this tour are at the gorgeous Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss waterfalls, the Reynisfjara black sand beach, Dyrhólaey and Vik..
Driving through Vatnajökull National Park, established in 2008 covers 14,1% of Iceland and ranks as Europe's second largest. The unique qualities of Vatnajökull National Park are primarily its great variety of landscape features, created by the combined forces of rivers, glacial ice, and volcanic and geothermal activity. Vatnajökull is Europe's largest glacier.
The south side of Vatnajökull is characterized by many high, majestic mountain ridges, with outlet glaciers descending between them onto the lowlands. Sheltered by the high ice, the vegetated oasis of Skaftafell overlooks the black sands deposited to its west by the river Skeiðará.
Dyrhólaey is a 120-metre high promontory, not far from Vík. The place got its name from the massive arch that the sea has eroded from the headland. (The name literally means "door-hole"). There are also amazing rock formations all along the Birdlife here is abundant, with puffins and eider ducks being the most common species in the area. The lighthouse on the top of the cliff stands impressive and stoic in this often very windy area.
What to expect: Stunning scenery, landmarks of the natural wonders of the country, insight into local history and geology. Coastal villages.
Basis: Private tour.
Start / End: City center Hotel or address.
Duration: 10 hours.
Vehicle: 01st Class.
Guide: English-speaking driver guide. Other languages on request.
Entrances: None.
Meals: None.
Physical activity level: Grade Easy. Walking required over uneven surfaces.
Wheelchair accessible: no
Tour can operate: morning and afternoon.
Notes: Tour program may be reversed for logistic / planning purposes.
Reykjavik Food tour – 3 hs
Reykjavik Food tour – 3 hs
Experience the foodie side of the Icelandic capital!
On this food walking tour you will try the truly authentic food from Iceland and also get a nice orientation of Reykjavik city.
Some of the highlights of this tour are the visit of Reykjavik’s oldest restaurant, a stop at a gastropub, and of course, the possibility of trying a variety of local dishes. Among the specialties included in this tour, we can mention the special Lamb soup, the Unique Icelandic Lamb Hot dog, Lobster soup, and a Skyr Dessert.
You also get tips on what to eat, drink and where to have fun for the rest of your stay in Reykjavik.
Basis: Private tour.
Duration: 3 hours walking tour.
Start / End: Ingólfur Square/City Center.
Vehicle: None.
Guide: English-speaking. Other languages on request.
Entrances: None.
Meals: Tastings. Icelandic Traditional food is based on meat, fish and dairy, but other options may be available.
Physical activity level: Grade Easy. Walking required over uneven surfaces.
Wheelchair accessible: NO
Tour operates: morning, afternoon.
Notes: Tour program may be reversed for logistic / planning purposes. This tour is not offered on public holidays.
Reykjavik Walking tour – 3,5 hours
Reykjavik Walking tour – 3,5 hours
Reykjavík is a city of bold contrasts. The capital of Iceland is small but cosmopolitan and small-town; vibrant and sophisticated; young-at-heart and yet full of history. In this tour you will walk around the city and discover the main sights.
Together with your local guide, you will pass by the Hallgímskirkja church, the highest and probably most iconic building in town, as well as the Dome Church, which is Reykjavik’s Lutheran Cathedral and the bishop’s place in Iceland. The Dome Church is located downtown, next to the Alþingi, house of parliament.
You will see other emblematic sites like the “Sun Voyager” sculpture created by Icelandic sculptor Jon Gunnar Arnason. This gleaming steel sculpture is located on Reykjavik’s splendid waterfront and resembles a Viking long-ship, the ‘Solfar’ or ‘Sun Voyager.’ You will also see the modern building Harpa, a cultural and social centre in the heart of the city, and the Old Harbour.
Basis: Private tour.
Duration: 3,5 hours walking tour.
Start / End: City.
Vehicle: None.
Guide: English-speaking. Other languages on request.
Entrances: None.
Meals: None.
Physical activity level: Grade Easy. Walking required over uneven surfaces.
Wheelchair accessible: NO
Tour operates: morning, afternoon.
Notes: Tour program may be reversed for logistic / planning purposes.
