Traverse the land of fire and ice, from the thundering waterfalls of the south to the whale-rich waters of the north. Walk inside a glacier, soak in secluded geothermal pools, and meet researchers protecting the Arctic ecosystem. Guided by experts, explore a landscape defined by volcanic power and glacial beauty.
Travel Style
National Geographic Signature
Service Level
Luxury
Physical Grading
3 - Average
What's Included
Signature Moment: Lava Centre Visit with a Vulcanologist, Hvolsvollur
Signature Moment: Meet with a Marine Biologist at the University of Iceland’s Research Center, Husavik. Arrival and Departure Transfers. Seljalandsfoss Waterfall Visit. Sólheimajökul Glacier Hike. Gullfoss Waterfall Visit. Geysir Geothermal Field Visit. Greenhouse tour at Friðheimar. Guided walk at Þingvellir National Park. Into the Glacier Tour. Guided Tour Viðgelmir Lava Cave. Hraunfossar & Barnafoss Waterfalls Visit. Húsafell Canyon Baths. Visit Glaumbær Turf Museum. Visit Akureyri Botanical Garden. Whale-watching expedition from Húsavík Harbor. Free time in Akureyri. Perlan Museum Visit. Engaging Discussions with the National Geographic Expert Throughout. All transport between destinations and to/from included activities.
What are the main highlights of this trip?
Join a volcanologist for an exclusive tour of the Lava Centre’s seismic exhibits, Travel by specialized vehicle to walk the illuminated ice tunnels deep inside Langjökull, Meet a researcher in Húsavik to discuss whale conservation and sustainable fishing, Soak in secluded natural hot pools nestled in a remote volcanic canyon in Húsafell, Enjoy the local flavours inside a geothermal greenhouse powered by renewable energy.
How large will the group be?
Max 22.
What meals are included in this trip?
8 breakfasts, 4 lunches, 8 dinners
What are the modes of transportation on my trip?
Private vehicle, boat, airplane, walking.
Is there an extra cost for travelling solo?
Yes, for those travelling solo there is a single supplement.
Where will we stay during the trip?
Hotels (8 nts).
Itinerary
Reykjavik
Welcome to Iceland. Your expedition begins as you touch down in Keflavík airport. You will be met and transferred to your hotel–crossing the moss-covered lava fields to reach Reykjavík, the world’s northernmost capital. In the evening, meet your fellow travellers and National Geographic Expedition Leader for an introduction and welcome reception. Enjoy a short presentation from the National Geographic Expedition Expert before heading to a local restaurant for dinner, sampling modern Icelandic cuisine and sharing toasts as you prepare for your exploration of this dynamic island.
Reykjavik/Hella
Venture to the stunning southern coast of Iceland, a landscape shaped by the earth’s powerful natural forces over millions of years. Begin at the Lava Centre for an exclusive tour with a leading volcanologist. Gain unique insight into the magmatic forces rumbling beneath your feet. Continue to Seljalandsfoss, walking behind the thundering curtain of water to feel the cool spray on your face. Then, strap on crampons for a guided hike on Sólheimajökul glacier. Traverse the gleaming blue ice and deep crevasses, witnessing firsthand the immense power of the ice cap before settling into your hotel for the night.
Hella
Explore the famed Golden Circle, where the earth’s power is once again on full display. Feel the ground shake at Gullfoss, the "Golden Falls," and watch the Strokkur geyser erupt skyward in a column of steaming water. Stop at the Friðheimar Greenhouse and learn how they harness geothermal energy to grow food year-round, then enjoy a lunch served on site. Conclude at Þingvellir National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site that sits atop of the Mid-Atlantic Ridge, separating the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates, and stand where the continents are slowly drifting apart.
Hella/Húsafell
Continue west through the rugged landscapes of Borgarnes, where jagged peaks rise from the sea. In Húsafell, board a massive 8-wheel glacier truck to ascend the slopes of Langjökull, then venture into the glacier itself, walking through illuminated, man-made tunnels carved deep into the blue heart of the ice cap. Feel the ancient chill of the ice as a glaciologist explains the science of ice cores and the impact of climate change on this fragile environment. In the evening, settle into your hotel, surrounded by the silence of the highlands.
Húsafell
Descend into the darkness of Viðgelmir, the largest lava tube in Iceland. Set off with a local guide to explore the colorful rock formations and learn about Viking outlaws who once hid here. Then, marvel at the Hraunfossar waterfalls, where glacial water streams mysteriously from beneath a lava field. In the afternoon, enjoy an unforgettable private experience at the Húsafell Canyon Baths. Relax in secluded, stone-lined pools fed by natural hot springs, gazing out at the remote canyon walls — a moment of pure geothermal bliss before a delicious dinner.
Húsafell/Akureyri
Travel north across the highland moors to the Skagafjörður region. Step back in time at the Glaumbær Turf Museum, wandering through traditional 18th-century sod farmhouses that blend seamlessly into the landscape. Continue to Akureyri, the "Capital of the North" and stroll through the Akureyri Botanical Garden, admiring a surprising collection of Arctic and foreign flora thriving just miles from the Arctic Circle.
Akureyri
Drive along the coast to Húsavik, the whale watching capital of Iceland. Visit the University of Iceland research center for an exclusive meeting with a marine biologist. Learn about their research into cetacean populations and sustainable fishing then take to the sea on a whale watching boat. Scan the dark, cold waters of Skjálfandi Bay for the blow of humpback, minke, and blue whales, hoping to catch a glimpse of these giants breaching against a backdrop of snow-capped mountains. Return to Akureyri for some free time to explore or relax before dinner in the evening.
Akureyri/Reykjavik
Fly back to Reykjavík this morning, watching the volcanic landscape pass below you. Visit the Perlan Museum, a glass-domed landmark offering 360-degree views of the city. Explore interactive exhibits showcasing Iceland’s geology, glaciers, and climate, including a real indoor ice cave. Spend the afternoon exploring the vibrant streets of Reykjavik on your own, perhaps take an optional visit to soak in the thermal springs of the Sky Lagoon before a farewell dinner in the evening.
Reykjavik
Your expedition to Iceland concludes today. After breakfast, enjoy a final breath of fresh Arctic air before your transfer to Keflavík International Airport, provided at any time during the day.
Is travel insurance required for my trip?
Travel insurance is compulsory in order to participate on any of our trips. When travelling on a group trip, you will not be permitted to join the group until evidence of travel insurance has been sighted by your leader, who will take note of your insurance details. When selecting a travel insurance policy we require that at a minimum you are covered for medical expenses including emergency evacuation and repatriation. A minimum coverage of USD200,000 is required. We strongly recommend that the policy also covers personal liability, cancellation, curtailment and loss of luggage and personal effects. Some tours include adventure activities that require extra coverage (e.g. crampon use); please review your itinerary and make sure that you are covered for all included activities. If you have credit card insurance we require proof of purchase of the trip (a receipt of credit card statement) with a credit card in your name. Contact your bank for details of their participating insurer, the level of coverage and emergency contact telephone number.
Terms, conditions and restrictions apply; pricing, availability, and other details subject to change and/ or apply to US or Canadian residents. Please confirm details and booking information with your travel advisor.
