All Around Iceland

Arrival transfer by airport bus to your hotel. There is also the option to head first to the Blue Lagoon and relax in the picture-perfect blue waters for the morning, a great way to wind down after a long overnight flight. Upon arrival in Reykjavík you have the day free to explore on your own. As the capital of Iceland, Reykjavík has some great amenities and experiences. Perhaps walk along the bay to see the Sun Voyager sculpture, or enjoy a delicious meal at one of the many world-class restaurants Reykjavík boasts. Overnight in Reykjavik

This morning you will meet your tour guide and the rest of the tour group before heading out of the city, going northwest. Travel through the Hvalfjörður (Hvalfjordur) Tunnel to Borgarnes where you will stop for a hike to Grábrók volcano crater. The hike is fairly easy, as there are stairs, and it takes about 20 minutes to get to the top of the crater for stunning views of the surrounding landscape. From there you will continue north, stopping at the Seal and Natural History museum in Hvamstangi, and then the restored turf church Vídimyri before arriving in the capital of the north, Akureyri. Overnight in Akureyri

Today you have time to explore Akureyri independently before departing the city and visiting Goðafoss (Godafoss), the waterfall of the Gods. From there the next stop is Lake Mývatn, an area known for the lake itself, strange and rocky lava formations surrounding it, and hot springs bubbling in underground caves. After visiting some of these unique landscapes you will spend the evening soaking in the Mývatn Nature Baths, naturally heated pools that are filled with healing and rejuvenating minerals and vitamins. You will head to your accommodation for the evening with glowing, healthy skin and a fully relaxed mind. If you are traveling between late fall and early spring, there is the chance to see the Northern Lights in the nighttime sky. Overnight in Mývatn

First thing this morning you will have an opportunity to hike through the lava formations of Dimmurborgir, directly translated to dark castles in English. There is a mystical feel to these formations that has led to the rumor of trolls living amongst the lava. As you head east you will visit the hot springs of Námaskarð, followed by the moon-like craters and fields that continue throughout the drive today. It will be easy to see why NASA sent astronauts to this area to prepare for moon landings. Arrive in Egilsstaðir (Egilsstadir), the entrance to the East Fjords this evening. Overnight in Egilsstadir area

The drive today takes you south along the amazing East Fjords, where quaint fishing villages and dramatic views are not in short supply. Stop at the Petra Stone and Mineral Collection, a private home where an Icelandic woman’s private collection is on display for visitors interested in the unique geology of Iceland. As you continue south, soon you will see Vatnajökull Glacier, the largest glacier in Iceland and Europe. Overnight in Höfn

This morning, it’s time to visit Vatnajökull National Park, a great area for hiking and exploring. Your first stop in the park is Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon, an amazing lagoon filled with floating icebergs. You will head south with some time for independent hiking in the Skaftafell portion of the park. The journey continues as you cross the massive Eldhraun lava field, visit the village of Vík, and see the basalt columns of Reynisdrangar, located on the black sand beach of Reynisfjara. From there you will head to Skógafoss Waterfall and then Seljalandsfoss. In the distance on your drive you will possibly be able to start seeing Eyjafjallajökull, the notorious volcano that erupted in 2010 and created quite a stir due to the effect it had on air traffic. You will also have the chance to visit a center dedicated to the infamous event and learn more about the impact it had on locals, and the world. Overnight in Hvolsvöllur

Your first stop along the famous Golden circle route is a ranch and greenhouse Friðheimar, where you will formally be introduced to the Icelandic horse. These purebred horses are very special to Icelanders as they have a fascinating history, being originally brought over by Vikings. Their solitude on Iceland led the horse to develop independent of other breed influences. Continue along the Golden Circle visiting the hot springs and geysers of Strokkur and Geysir, the golden Gullfoss waterfall, and lastly Þingvellir (Thingvellir) National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site and the rift between the continents. Finally, this afternoon you will return to Reykjavík, with a short city tour ending at your hotel. Overnight in Reykjavik

Departure transfer to the airport with the airport bus. If you didn’t visit the Blue Lagoon on your arrival day, it would be possible to visit today instead. Depart on your flight to the US – or extend your stay in Scandinavia!