Itinerary | Educational Highlights | Land-Only Prices

8 Days, Priced from $1,249 (land only)

Icelandic Scene. Copyright Jim Miller 2005

An island of dramatic contrasts, Iceland is a landscape forged by fire and ice. Steaming lava fields and hot pools reflect its volcanic nature, while massive glaciers continue to sculpt the mountains and valleys, leaving thundering waterfalls and plunging fjords. The Icelandic people combine a reverence for their Viking heritage and ancient language with an industrialized, progressive society.

Discover the spectacular landscapes and proud people of this small island nation during this fascinating journey.

Itinerary

Day 1: Overnight Flight
Day 2: Reykjavik, Iceland
Your tour begins in Reykjavik, where you embark on a fascinating city tour that highlights such important sites as the 19th-century Parliament House, Austurvollur Square, the Hofoi House, and Tjornin Lake. Visit the Arbaer Open-Air Folk Museum*, which comprises buildings and artifacts from different periods, including an 18th-century turf chapel. Gather this evening for a welcome reception and dinner. (D)
Day 3: Reykjavik - Golden Circle
Today travel the "Golden Circle" which encompasses many of Iceland's most renowned natural scenic wonders. Thingvellir National Park is Iceland's most historic site and one of its most beautiful places. The oldest existing parliament in the world first met here in AD 930. The park also features the geologically significant Mid-Atlantic Ridge, where the American and European tectonic plates collide. Continue to the amazing hot springs of Geysir, then marvel at one of the island's greatest natural wonders, the two-tiered Gullfoss Waterfall. Also visit Hveragerdi, where steam from the earth heats greenhouses that provide Iceland with fresh produce. (B)
Day 4: Reykjavik - Skogar - Vik
Travel across fertile pastures, sand flats, and glacial rivers en route to Skogar, a small settlement located next to a magnificent waterfall. Visit Skogar's Folk Museum, which houses an interesting collection of Icelandic artifacts. Continue south to the town of Vik, your home for the next two nights. Vik is a small town set along Iceland's dramatic southern coast, where black sand beaches, crashing waves, and towering figures of black rock form an unforgettable sight. Today, learn more about the many geologic concepts that have created the fascinating landscape of Iceland. (B, D)
Day 5: Vik - Skaftafell National Park - Vik
Begin the day at Skaftafell National Park, a beautiful green oasis located near the highest peak in Iceland. Later, an unforgettable boat trip amidst graceful, floating icebergs serves as an introduction to Iceland's dramatic glaciers and the perfect opportunity to see many species of birds. (B, D)
Day 6: Vik - Reykjavik
Today, on your trip back to Reykjavik, enjoy a visit to a traditional Icelandic horse farm. Learn how Iceland's horses are directly descended from those brought by the Vikings and how Iceland is preserving this heritage. This evening, attend an in-depth discussion that enhances your understanding of all that you have witnessed. (B)
Day 7: Reykjavik - Reykjanes Peninsula - Reykjavik
During a full-day excursion, explore the scenic landscape of the Reykjanes Peninsula, stopping at Bessastadir, an ancient Viking site that is now the official residence of the current president. Continue to Lake Kleifarvatn to see an amazing display of geothermal activity, including steaming fumaroles, hot springs, and mud pots. Conclude your day at the famous Blue Lagoon, a natural geothermal pool in the middle of a large, dramatic lava field. Enjoy time to relax and/or take a swim in this pleasantly warm, mineral-rich water. Gather for a farewell dinner this evening. (B, D)
Day 8: Reykjavik - Tour Ends (B)

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Educational Highlights in Iceland
Your Icelandic adventure is complemented by intriguing lectures that explore the natural history of this geologically “young” nation.
• Learn how Iceland hopes to become energy independent through its hydro and geothermal power plants from expert Maria Maack. Discover why this is an achievable goal that makes Iceland the envy of energy-import dependent countries.
• Acquaint yourself with the geologic energies at work in Iceland during a lecture by geologist Ari Traustia Gudmundsson, who explains the geothermal hotspots, volcanic rocks, and glaciers that you observe throughout your journey.
• Gain an appreciation for Icelandic culture as historian Anne Yates recounts famous Icelandic sagas, painting a vivid picture of its early history.

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Call us for 2008-2009 departures.

Additional departure dates available
Air inclusive rate starting at $1889 is per person, double from New York City during certain seasons. Call for other air rates and Business Class upgrades.
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