South Iceland’s Volcanoes & Glaciers

Upon arrival in Iceland, take the airport bus to your hotel. You also have the option to go to the Blue Lagoon directly from the airport, relaxing in the naturally heated waters and enjoying a shower before going to Reykjavík at your leisure. Rest of the day is at your leisure to explore the capital of Iceland. Reykjavík is a city that is always growing and adding unique shops, world-class restaurants, and attractions that bring the beauty of Icelandic nature into the city. If you are tired from the flight, perhaps head to the amazing Harpa Concert Hall for a coffee and relax. If you are anxious to begin your exploration of the city, walk along the harbor, stopping for a picture at the Sun Voyager statue. Overnight in Reykjavík

The day begins with a drive to visit the LAVA Centre, a multimedia learning exhibition dedicated to the fiery history of Iceland. Next, it is on to Seljalandsfoss waterfall, where a walk behind the tumbling water is possible. Continuing east you will board a ferry to Heimaey Island, the largest of the 15 Westman Islands. Your guide will take you hiking up to Stórhöfði (Storhofdi) Point for a possible sighting of puffins, if traveling mid-May through the beginning of August, or at least a stunning view. It is also possible to walk up Eldfell Volcano and see the crater from the 1973 eruption. A visit to the Eldheimar Museum for a deeper examination of the eruption is included. The remainder of the day is free to explore at leisure, or join one of two optional boat tours to get a closer look at the Westman Islands. Overnight in the Westman Islands

Travel by ferry back from Heimaey to the mainland and head further on along the south shore. Your first stop of the day is Skógafoss waterfall, where you can feel the magical mist and capture fantastic photos. In the Solheimajokull glacier outlet you will have the choice of seeing the glaciers up close on a hike or from the water on a kayak. The day will conclude in Vík, where you will visit the black sand beaches of Reynisfjara and the basalt columns of Reynisdrangar. Overnight in Vík area

The journey across south Iceland continues today as you reach the southeastern corner of the island. Along the way you will pass Eldhraun, the largest lava flow ever recorded, and the village of Kirkjubæjarklaustur. You are headed towards Vatnajökull National Park and Vatnajökull Glacier, the largest glacier in Europe. You will also see one of the glacial lagoons, Jökulsárlón, and the floating icebergs and glimmering ice in the black sand that makes this one of the most breathtaking places in Iceland. You will have the experience to really explore this area more closely with a cruise on the lagoon. You will return to Vík for the night. Overnight in Vík

Travel along the incredible Golden Circle today. Sights to visit include the geothermal area of Geysir and Strokkur hot springs and geysers, the impressive “Golden Waterfall” of Gullfoss, and Þingvellir (Thingvellir) National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site and the rift between tectonic plates. Arrive in Reykjavík this evening. Overnight in Reykjavík

Transfer to the airport for your return flight to the US – or extend your stay in Iceland!