Journey to Akureyri – Unveiling the Charms of North Iceland

Borgarfjörður - Hotel or nearby bus stop pickup between 08:30-09:00.

Travel north through the Hvalfjörður tunnel to Borgarnes. Near Borgarnes, visit Grábrók Volcano, a volcanic fissure that erupted 3,000 years ago. Continue over the Holtavörðuheiði highland plateau to reach the flourishing farming region of northwest Iceland.

Skagafjordur - Pass by Skagafjörður, a deep fjord and valley, renowned for its prosperous agriculture, including dairy, sheep farming, and horse breeding. Skagafjörður is unique in Iceland for having more horses than people.

Glaumbaer Museum - Visit Glaumbær Museum, a historic turf farm offering insights into traditional Icelandic life. The museum features well-preserved 18th and 19th-century turf houses, showcasing how Icelanders lived harmoniously with their environment. Explore the restored farmhouse, furnished with period items, for an authentic experience of rural Icelandic life. The museum also provides insights into Icelandic history and culture, making it a captivating destination for those interested in the country’s heritage.

Akureyri - Travel over the Öxnadalsheidi highland plateau to Akureyri, the capital of North Iceland.

Overnight stay in Akureyri.

Lake Mývatn – Volcanic Wonders and Stunning Waterfalls

Lake Myvatn - Focus on the beautiful area around Lake Mývatn, a shallow lake in a volcanically active region with abundant biological activity.

Godafoss - From Akureyri, drive to Mývatn, stopping at Goðafoss, the “Waterfall of the Gods,” a breathtaking cascade with historical significance.

Dimmuborgir Lava Formations - Explore the unique volcanic formations at Dimmuborgir, known as the “Dark Castles,” created by volcanic activity thousands of years ago, making it a popular spot for hikers and nature lovers.

Skutustadir - Stroll around the pseudocraters at Skútustaðagígar, formed by steam explosions when hot lava flowed over wetlands, resembling volcanic craters but not true volcanoes.

Grjotagja Cave - Visit Grjótagjá, a small lava cave with a thermal spring inside, offering a unique and serene experience. The warm, clear water was once a favored bathing spot, though less accessible now due to temperature changes from volcanic activity. Grjótagjá gained fame as a filming location for the TV series Game of Thrones, making it a must-visit for nature enthusiasts and fans of the show.

Námaskarð - Stop by the geothermal area at Námaskarð, where bubbling mud pools and steaming fumaroles create an otherworldly landscape.

Dettifoss Waterfall - En route to Egilsstaðir in eastern Iceland, visit Dettifoss Waterfall, reputed as the second most powerful waterfall in Europe after the Rhine Falls. Cross Möðrudalsöræfi highland desert through Jökuldalur to Egilsstaðir.

The East Fjords – Picturesque Villages and Wild Reindeer

East Region - From Egilsstaðir, drive through the Eastfjords to Höfn í Hornafirði. This region features narrow fjords surrounded by steep cliffs and charming fishing villages. Despite its stunning scenery, remote villages, sparkling lakes, and traditional farms, this area is often overlooked. It boasts the sunniest summer weather in the country, though winter often brings a mystical fog. The region is known for its wildlife, particularly as the only part of the country where wild reindeer roam. Initially brought for farming, the industry was abandoned, and the reindeer have roamed free since.

Djupivogur - After traversing the beautiful East Fjords, arrive at Djúpivogur, a quaint coastal village celebrated for its peaceful atmosphere and artistic charm. It features the unique outdoor sculpture Eggin í Gleðivík and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and coastline.

Hofn - Overnight stay in Höfn í Hornafirði.

Höfn is a charming fishing town in southeast Iceland, known for its stunning views of Vatnajökull, Europe’s largest glacier. It’s a gateway to glacier tours, hiking, and fresh local seafood, especially langoustines.

Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon, Diamond Beach & Iceland’s South Coast

Jokulsarlon - Depart Höfn to drive along Iceland’s southeast coast. First stop at Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon for an amphibian boat tour. The Lagoon formed around 60 years ago, with continuous calving and falling icebergs from the Breiðamerkurjökull glacier tongue. These icebergs appear in milky white and bright blue shades, a play of light and ice crystals.

Below the Lagoon, sparkling ice shards and orbs wash up on Breiðamerkursandur shore, earning it the name Diamond Beach.

Diamond Beach Jokulsarlon - Below the Lagoon, sparkling ice shards and orbs wash up on Breiðamerkursandur shore, earning it the name Diamond Beach.

Vatnajokull National Park - Continue through Vatnajökull National Park, passing Hvannadalshnúkur, Iceland’s highest peak (2,119m), before crossing the vast lava fields of Eldhraun and the black glacial plains of Mýrdalssandur.

Reynisfjara Beach - Pass by the village of Vík and visit the black sand beach at Reynisfjara, known for its puffin colony, unique geological formations, and powerful tidal waves. Exercise caution as the waves can be dangerous.

Dyrholaey - From Reynisfjara, view the impressive Dyrhólaey promontory, where the sea has carved a massive hole through the rock.

Skogafoss - Stop at Skógafoss, a majestic waterfall on the Skógá River, known for its 60-meter drop and mist that creates vibrant rainbows on sunny days. Surrounded by lush greenery and steep cliffs, it is one of Iceland’s most iconic and photogenic natural landmarks.

Seljalandsfoss - At Seljalandsfoss Waterfall, walk behind the waterfall but dress appropriately, as the mist can make you wet.

The Golden Circle & Optional Blue Lagoon Experience

Gullfoss Waterfall - Tour the renowned Golden Circle, starting with Gullfoss, the “Golden Falls,” a breathtaking two-tiered waterfall in the Hvítá River canyon. Known for its power and beauty, Gullfoss plunges into a rugged gorge, creating a mesmerizing spectacle that attracts visitors worldwide.

Geysir - Visit the Geysir hot spring area, home to the famous Geysir hot spring, from which all other geysers are named. Geysir is inactive, but Strokkur erupts every few minutes.

Thingvellir National Park - Visit Þingvellir National Park, where the North American and European tectonic plates drift apart, creating a rift valley. The ancient Icelandic parliament, Alþingi, was established at Þingvellir in 930. Now in Reykjavík, it is one of the world’s oldest surviving parliaments. Þingvellir is a sacred place for Icelanders.

Reykjavik - Return to Reykjavík for the final night. Guests not opting for the Blue Lagoon visit will be driven to their hotel, while others continue to enjoy their excursion.

• Amphibian Boat Tour on Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon
• Free Wi-Fi on board
• Visit to Glaumbær Folk Museum
• Breakfast at the hotels
• Small group tour in spacious vehicle with no restrictions on luggage allowance
• Accommodation with private bathroom for 4 nights
• Pickup and drop-off at your hotel or a nearby bus stop
• Expert guidance from a professional local guide

• Accommodation in Reykjavík
• Meals other than breakfast at the hotel
• Optional Extras (see different price options in booking process)

This is the classic tour, offering an exploration of Iceland’s famous landmarks that showcases the country’s rich history and geography.

Guided by experienced guides, participants will experience stunning natural wonders, such as waterfalls, Europe’s largest glacier, the enchanting glacier lagoon, a powerful geyser eruption, charming fishing villages, and the birdlife haven of Mývatn.

This extensive journey promises an engaging experience, providing insight into the diverse and breathtaking attractions that characterize Iceland’s remarkable landscape.

• No luggage limitation

If you cancel at least 6 full day(s) before the scheduled departure time, you will receive a full refund.
If you cancel between 2 and 6 day(s) before the scheduled departure time, you will receive a 50% refund.
If you cancel within 2 day(s) of the scheduled departure, you will receive a 0% refund.