Best of Iceland

You’re on your way to Iceland, a land forged by fire and ice, where adventurous landscapes give way to a rich cultural heritage. Discover the dramatic contrasts: from ethereal lava fields and thundering waterfalls to charming coastal villages.

Discover culture and history in Reykjavík, Iceland’s capital. Explore the old section on a walking tour featuring the Parliament, harbor, city hall, and the city’s oldest building. Gaze up at the famous glass facade of the Harpa Concert Hall, a true marvel of modern architecture. Tonight, gather with your fellow travelers and experience the freshness of Icelandic food at a local restaurant.

Travel the Golden Circle to see Iceland's most iconic natural wonders, including the Mid-Atlantic Ridge in Thingvellir National Park where you can walk between two continents. Learn how locals use Iceland’s geothermal energy to cook food and taste “lava bread,” which is submerged into the earth and cooked for 24 hours. Continue along the Golden Circle and take in the beauty of the Gullfoss (Golden Falls) double-cascade waterfall before visiting the explosive Strokkur fountain geyser. Return to Reykjavík for an evening on your own.

This morning, journey inland to Húsafell and look out at the misty waterfalls cascading over lava rocks. Then, experience an Impact Moment with a visit to an Icelandic goat farm. Learn how local farmer, Jóhanna, helped to bring this unique breed, dating back to the time of Iceland’s settlement, back from the brink of extinction. After visiting with the friendly goats, enjoy a simple meal of homemade specialties from the farm. Then, bundle up and ascend Langjökull glacier* via mountain truck and go “Into the Glacier” to experience the purest blue ice color in this man-made tunnel, the world’s largest.** End the day in Borgarnes, your home for the next two nights.

This morning, journey to the Snæfellsnes Peninsula with its camera-ready black sand beaches, mountain peaks, volcanic craters, rocky coastlines, and tiny fishing villages. Enjoy lunch on your own in Arnarstapi, a beautiful small fishing village located at the foot of Mt. Stapafell, and where extraordinary columnar basalt and cliff formations form a safe harbor. This afternoon, take in the views on Mount Kirkjufell with its iconic shape and freestanding form; this is one of the most photographed landscapes in Iceland.

Today, head to the scenic Norðurland Vestra region, famous for horse breeding. On a family-owned farm, grab your camera for a photo tour of the stables and interact with these friendly animals and their caretakers. En route, stop at one of Iceland's most historic waterfalls, Goðafoss, where legend says Iceland converted from its pagan roots to Christianity in AD 1000. End your day in Húsavík, one of the first settlements on the island.

This morning, take in the unique volcanic landscape that surrounds Lake Mývatn. You will have a chance to explore the Hverir geothermal area, where bubbling mud pools resemble a Martian terrain. Join your Tour Manager for a hike through Dimmuborgir and pass by irregular lava formations and mystical caves that inspire your imagination. After free time for lunch, gear up in thermal wear to join expert whale watchers on a cruise on Skjálfandi Bay. Aboard specialized Zodiacs, you’ll get as close as you can to whales in northern Iceland. You may see humpback, minke, fin or harbor porpoise, and possibly the orca or giant blue whales that frequent these waters.

This morning, fly*** back to Reykjavík. Then, it’s your choice! Experience the Icelandic tradition of geothermal bathing with a dip in the warm, mineral rich waters of scenic Sky Lagoon**** -OR- go on a thrilling virtual experience ride, giving you the feeling of flying over Iceland’s glaciers, fjords, and most iconic landscapes. Come together this evening for a farewell dinner at a restaurant featuring Icelandic cuisine.

Head home having uncovered Iceland’s adventurous side.