Classic Iceland Adventure

Today the adventure really begins, as we head northeast to Þingvellir National Park, home to Iceland’s first National Assembly. We’ll stretch our legs at our first waterfall called Öxàrarfoss (‘foss’ is Icelandic for waterfall). As strange as it may sound, this is actually a human-made waterfall, as the water was diverted, back in the 9th Century, to provide members and visitors of the Icelandic parliament ‘Althingi’ with water. There is further fascinating folklore about this region that you’ll soon discover!

After enjoying a traditional Icelandic meat soup for lunch we’ll continue towards the highlands, with stops to learn about Iceland’s Laugarvatan cave people, and view the original Geysir Nature Reserve and the Gullfoss waterfall.
Accommodation: Flúðir Hótel, Flúðir
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Hiking: We'll explore the Nature Reserve, so do as much or as little as you like.

This morning we’ll journey south down the coast to board a ferry. Our scenic crossing takes us to the bustling fishing port of Haeimaey, the only inhabited island in the Vestmannaeyjar archipelago. This tiny island hosts a recent, rich volcanic history that we’ll learn about at the world-class Eldheimar Exhibition.

After fueling up the body we’ll experience the lava fields with a volcanic hike to the Eldfell peak. At the top, you’ll be rewarded with views across to the mainland and a further appreciation for the 1973 eruption.
Accommodation: Hótel Vestmannaeyjar, Vestmannaeyjar
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

Eldfell Peak Hike: 1.2 miles (2 kilometers), 2-3 hours
Elevation Gain/Loss: 656 feet (200 meters) ascent, 656 feet (200 meters) descent

Optional Hike: 0.9 miles (1.5 kilometers), 0.5-1 hour
Elevation Gain/Loss: 656 feet (200 meters) ascent, 656 feet (200 meters) descent

After returning to the mainland we’ll take a hike to the top of Iceland’s most famous and spectacular waterfalls. First to Seljalandsfoss (where we can also walk behind the falls) and then to Skógafoss.

After lunch we’ll hunt for stone trolls along the wild and beautiful South Coast - these trolls occupy an immense portion of Icelandic folklore, described as big, stupid, and greedy, but sometimes kind and wise! Our journey continues alongside the soaring sea cliffs and moss-covered lava fields, where we’ll be able to see the infamous E15 ‘Eyjafjallajökull’ Volcano, Vatnajökull ice cap, and its outlet glaciers.

Tonight, we’ll relax in the wonderfully appointed Fosshótel, with impressive views down towards the coast.
Accommodation: Fosshótel Glacier Lagoon, Öraefi
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

Seljalandsfoss Hike: 0.3 miles (0.5 kilometers), 0.5-1 hour
Elevation Gain/Loss: 65 feet (20 meters) ascent, 65 feet (20 meters) descent

Skógafoss Hike: 3 miles (5 kilometers), 1-2 hours
Elevation Gain/Loss: 300 feet (90 meters) ascent, 300 feet (90 meters) descent

Pack your binoculars this morning as we’re looking for 'Lundi', also known as puffin, Iceland’s iconic and beloved bird. As we hike the high sea cliffs of the Ingólfshöfði headland we’ll also catch glimpses of guillemots and skuas. Please note, in September the puffins will have headed back out to sea. However, we will still enjoy the stunning hike.

After our hike and a bite to eat, we’ll head off to view yet another waterfall, known as Svartifoss, where nearby there are views across Europe’s largest outlet glacier, Skeiðarárjökull. You can decide to hike on the glacier with specialist guides for extra fees. Afterward, we’ll regroup and head back to the Fosshótel, for another relaxing evening.
Accommodation: Fosshótel Glacier Lagoon, Öraefi
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

Ingólfshöfði Headland Hike: 1.9 miles (3 kilometers), 2.5-3 hours
Elevation Gain/Loss: 656 feet (200 meters) ascent, 656 feet (200 meters) descent

Svartifoss Hike: 3.4 miles (5.5 kilometers), 1-2 hours
Elevation Gain/Loss: 324 feet (100 meters) ascent, 324 feet (100 meters) descent

Optional Ice hike on Falljökull Glacier (extra fee applies): An alternative option to the afternoon's waterfall hike is to strap on crampons, pick up an ice axe and hike on the Falljökull glacier! Led by specialist glacier guides you’ll explore amazing ice formations checking out the crevasses, seracs, tunnels, and pools of glacial meltwater - no previous experience is required! The constant movement of the glacier means every day is different, so your guides will cut steps in the ice and make sure you make the most of the conditions. The ice hike is popular, so this option must be selected at the time of booking.

Jökulsárlón Lagoon is a photographer’s dream and a spot where you may see seals playing amongst the icebergs. After hiking the entire length of Iceland’s shortest river (blink and you’ll miss it), we’ll end up on the beach surrounded by stranded icebergs.

A short drive brings us to the hidden canyon Múlagljúfur where we'll hike along this magnificent canyon to waterfalls called Hangandifoss and Múlafoss, offering breathtaking views along the way.

We'll enjoy a picnic lunch before starting our scenic drive back to Reykjavik along the South Coast, stopping to visit beautiful sites along the way. Arriving in Reykjavik in the afternoon where we'll enjoy one last farewell dinner together.
Accommodation: Hotel Reykjavik Centrum, Reykjavik
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Múlagljúfur Canyon Hike: 3.6 miles (5.7 kilometers), 3 hours
Elevation Gain/Loss: 1,204 feet (367 meters) ascent 

Iceland's shortest river Hike: 2-3 hours

This morning is yours to enjoy. Wander the city, indulge in a sleep-in, or pack in some last-minute souvenir shopping. If you’re staying on in Iceland be sure to ask us for advice about where to explore next!
Accommodation: Not applicable
Meals: Breakfast