Starts | Reykjavik, Iceland |
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Ends | Reykjavik, Iceland |
Region | Europe |
Duration | 8 days |
Tour Operator | Peregrine |
Itinerary
Day 1 - Starting: Reykjavik & Finishing: Reykjavik
Arrive in Reykjavik and settle into your hotel. There are no activities planned for today, but if you arrive early, take a stroll and acquaint yourself with the world's northernmost capital. Perhaps take a trip to the National Museum to see the permanent exhibition on the history of Iceland from the 9th century to the present. Meet your fellow travellers and trip leader at 6 pm for a welcome meeting.
Day 2 - Starting: Reykjavik - Golden Circle - Hvolsvollur & Finishing: Reykjavik - Golden Circle - Hvolsvollur
After breakfast, explore Reykjavik on a city tour, passing the old harbour, city centre, towering Hallgrimskirkja church and the dome-shaped Pearl. Continue to the geologically and historically important Thingvellir (Parliament Plains), the original site of Iceland’s old parliament. You will also visit the geothermal geysers and witness spouting hot springs before driving to Gullfoss (Golden Waterfall). Here at Iceland’s largest waterfall, a rainbow is often visible on a sunny day. It's a beautiful sight amid the spray above the falls. After checking into tonight’s accommodation near the town of Hvolsvollur, enjoy dinner with your fellow group members. Far away from the lights of the city, your hotel is an ideal base from which to see the spectacular Northern Lights. Look to the skies tonight in search of them. While there is a good chance of seeing the lights of the aurora from this far north, there is no guarantee, as weather conditions can affect visibility. Remember to pack warm clothes, as temperatures can drop to below –5°C. Notes: You will cover a distance of approximately 250 km today.
Day 3 - Starting: Hvolsvollur - Skaftafell National Park - Jokulsarlon - Vik & Finishing: Hvolsvollur - Skaftafell National Park - Jokulsarlon - Vik
Begin the day by visiting Skogafoss, a waterfall on the Skoga River. At 60 metres high and 25 metres wide, it's one of the largest – and most impressive – waterfalls in Iceland. It has been used for several settings in popular film. After spending some time taking in the glory of this stream, drive to Skaftafell National Park. En route, you'll travel through the lava of 1783’s Laki volcanic eruption. From there, drive on to Jokulsarlon, also known as the Glacier Lagoon. Take a walk around this astounding glacial lake and learn a little more about its history, perhaps taking some photos along the way. Then continue to the small village of Vik for your overnight stay. Notes: You will cover a distance of approximately 500 km today.
Day 4 - Starting: Vik - Blue Lagoon - Reykjavik & Finishing: Vik - Blue Lagoon - Reykjavik
Drive through the beautiful scenery of Iceland’s South Shore. Wander past the enormous basalt sea stacks at Reynisdrangar, marvel at the colours of Solheimajokull Glacier and admire the spectacular Seljalandsfoss waterfall. You can walk right behind the stream of the latter to see it from another angle. Afterwards you will stop at the Blue Lagoon for a relaxing bath in this geothermal spa. Next, return to Reykjavik and enjoy an evening of free time. Perhaps try the famous lobster soup or the infamous fermented shark washed down with a shot of Brennivin (Icelandic schnapps) in the Old Harbour, or enjoy a beer in a cosy city bar. Notes: You will cover a distance of approximately 300 km today.
Day 5 - Starting: Reykjavik - Akureyri - Lake Myvatn & Finishing: Reykjavik - Akureyri - Lake Myvatn
After an early morning flight (approximately 45 minutes) to Akureyri, transfer to Lake Myvatn, one of the most interesting geological areas in the northern hemisphere. Walk past solfataras – natural volcanic mud pits that bubble and boil, omitting a rather strong odour. You'll also pass the craggy lava fields of Dimmuborgir and the strange pseudo-craters at Skutustadir. Notes: You will drive approximately 100 km today.
Day 6 - Starting: Lake Myvatn & Finishing: Lake Myvatn
Enjoy a free day to explore Lake Myvatn and its surrounds. There are plenty of options to keep you occupied. Perhaps visit Husavik (a well-known spot for whale watching), relax in the Myvatn Nature Baths or head to Godafoss (if you haven’t had enough of stunning waterfalls). In the evenings, enjoy dinner at the hotel and look skyward for the incredible northern lights again.
Day 7 - Starting: Reykjavik & Finishing: Reykjavik
Return to Reykjavik by plane (approximately 45 minutes). Spend the afternoon exploring the city at your own pace. Iceland's capital has an eclectic arts and music scene, an abundance of quirky cafes and a laid-back vibe. Perhaps window-shop in the central city, hire a bike and cycle around the harbour front, go on a self-guided tour through the cemetery or browse some of the city's excellent art galleries. If you feel like something more active, you can take a ride on an Icelandic horse, or see killer whales just offshore on a whale watching expedition. Alternatively, if you are after another look at the Northern Lights, you can head out of town to chase them again this evening.
Day 8 - Starting: Reykjavik - Departure Day & Finishing: Reykjavik - Departure Day
Your journey comes to an end after breakfast this morning. Those looking to extend their stay can arrange additional nights' accommodation at the time of booking the trip (subject to availability).
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