Iceland’s Midnight Sun: Glaciers, Geysers, and the Golden Circle

Set out on a journey full of dramatic contrasts. Come to know Iceland; a place where steaming lava fields reflect a volcanic nature and massive glaciers sculpt mountains and valleys, leaving behind thundering waterfalls and plunging fjords.

Begin in the capital city of Reykjavík. Get to know your fellow travelers during an Icelandic lunch at a popular local restaurant. Next, join a walking tour of old town Reykjavík with a local guide and learn about the City Hall, Parliament building, and the iconic Harpa Concert Hall with its’ stunning geometric glass façade. Later, check into your hotel and spend the afternoon at leisure.

Travel the Golden Circle and experience renowned natural wonders. Marvel at the double-cascade Gullfoss waterfall, the explosive Geysir thermal area, and the famous Thingvellir National Park where you’ll stand upon the crest of the Mid-Atlantic Ridge. Along the way, stop at a family-run dairy farm to enjoy various cheeses and their famous ice cream during a light lunch. Your day ends with a visit to Friðheimar stud farm and greenhouse cultivation center to learn about the tradition of breeding Icelandic show horses as well as how pesticide-free produce is grown with the aid of geothermal energy before returning back to Reykjavík.

Explore Iceland’s western coastline with a visit Akranes, an old fishing town at the base of Akrafjall Mountain. Don’t miss a photo opportunity of one of the most picturesque lighthouses* in the world. Perhaps, you’ll climb up the stairs to take in its stunning views or take a leisurely walk along the historical harbor if you choose. Continue to Deildartunguhver, the highest-flowing hot spring in Europe. Stroll along several wooden walkways and observation points to explore the hot springs safely. Listen to local stories and legends while visiting Barnafoss, which translates to “the Children’s Falls.” Your day comes to an end in Borgarnes, a small West Iceland town with deep Viking roots.

Discover the diversitiy of the Snæfellsnes Peninsula. Begin your day with stunning views on Ytri Tunga beach, where you may spot seals** basking on the shore. Marvel at the majestic Bjarnarfoss waterfall, which plummets like a beautiful white ribbon against the dramatic backdrop of dark basalt cliffs. Explore the dramatic coastal cliffs and stunning stone arch at Arnarstapi and spend some time exploring this small fishing town and enjoying lunch on your own. Feel the power of the Atlantic at the black pebble beach of Djúpalónssandur, then end your day with a photo stop at Iceland’s most photographed mountain, Kirkjufell, beautifully framed by the Kirkjufellsfoss waterfalls, before returning to Borgarnes for an evening at leisure.

Learn about geothermal renewable energy on a visit to Hellisheiðavirkjun, the largest power station in Iceland and the second largest geothermal power station in the world. Visit the Lava Exhibition Center and delve into Iceland’s past and present volcanic eruptions. Afterward, witness Seljalandsfoss, a rushing waterfall where you may walk behind the water for unique views from the inside out. Arrive in Vík, Iceland's southernmost village, and one of the most remarkable spots in Iceland.

Travel along the scenic south shore to the Skógar Museum and discover its turf-built houses and collection of historic Icelandic artifacts. Nearby, stand before the impressive Skógafoss waterfall, one of the tallest in Iceland. Behold Reynisfjara, a black volcanic sand beach scattered with caves and surrounded by basalt columns and cliffs. At Dyrhólaey, you may spot nesting puffins*** perched along the dramatic rock formation. And finally, take in stunning views of Sólheimajökull Glacier, part of Iceland’s fourth-largest ice cap.

This morning, embark on a spectacular journey east along the coast to the world-famous Jökulsárlón Glacial Lagoon. Witness the breathtaking sight of icebergs calving from a glacier and floating serenely toward the Atlantic Ocean as you board a cruise on an amphibian boat.**** Float alongside the huge icebergs as you search for seals swimming in cold waters. Explore the “Diamond Beach,” where ice formations from the lagoon wash ashore and glitter brilliantly against the stark black sand. After soaking in this unforgettable landscape, return to Vik.

Today, make your way back to Reykjavik while taking in stunning backdrops as you approach the Reykjanes Peninsula. Visit a local studio and learn about Icelandic traditions of wool dyeing using natural ingredients and traditional techniques. Later, visit the scenic Sky Lagoon***** and experience the Icelandic tradition of geothermal bathing. Take a dip in the warm, mineral-rich waters and enjoy sweeping ocean views. This evening, join your fellow travelers for a farewell dinner at a local restaurant and reflect on your journey through the Land of Fire and Ice.

Depart for home with memories of your Icelandic adventure.