Signature: Iceland's Reykjavik, Golden Circle, & Fjords of the North - 9 Days
Trip Snapshot
Age range
12 - 100Start / End
- Reykjavík
- Reykjavík
Physical rating
Group size
1 - 22Meals included
20Highlights
- Embark on an immersive journey through Iceland's fiery heart with an exclusive volcanologist-led tour of the Lava Centre, gaining unique insight into the magmatic forces beneath your feet. Feel the raw power of nature as you walk behind the majestic Seljalandsfoss waterfall, then strap on crampons for an exhilarating guided hike across the gleaming blue ice and deep crevasses of the Sólheimajökul glacier.
- Discover the iconic Golden Circle, where geological wonders abound. Witness the earth's dramatic forces at Gullfoss, the 'Golden Falls,' and be mesmerized as the Strokkur geyser erupts skyward. Stand where continents diverge in the historic Þingvellir National Park and enjoy a unique, geothermally-powered lunch at the innovative Friðheimar Greenhouse.
- Venture deep into Iceland's pristine wilderness by an 8-wheel glacier truck to explore the magnificent Langjökull ice cap. Delve into illuminated, man-made tunnels carved deep into its blue heart, learning the science of ice cores from a glaciologist. Later, descend into the vast Viðgelmir lava tube to marvel at vibrant rock formations and ancient Viking lore.
- Unwind in the blissful, secluded Húsafell Canyon Baths, a private experience in stone-lined pools fed by natural hot springs, offering breathtaking canyon views for a moment of pure geothermal bliss. Complement this tranquility with a visit to the ethereal Hraunfossar waterfalls, where glacial water mysteriously emerges from beneath a lava field.
- Journey to the captivating northern fjords, stepping back in time at the Glaumbær Turf Museum's traditional 18th-century sod farmhouses that blend seamlessly into the landscape. Then, set sail from Húsavík, Iceland's whale-watching capital, for an unforgettable expedition to spot magnificent humpback, minke, and blue whales, complemented by insights from a dedicated marine biologist on cetacean conservation.
- Conclude your adventure back in Reykjavík, ascending to the glass-domed Perlan Museum for 360-degree city views and an immersive experience with Iceland's geology, glaciers, and climate, including a walk through a real indoor ice cave. Enjoy free time to explore the vibrant capital, perhaps soaking in the thermal springs of the Sky Lagoon.
Everything you need to picture the adventure and pack with confidence — in one free PDF.
What's inside the PDF
Day-by-day itinerary
Every day mapped out, covering activities, travel times, meals and where you'll stay.Packing & kit list
Exactly what to bring, from clothing and essentials to luggage guidelines and what's available to hire locally.What's included
Accommodation, transport, guides and meals, so you can see exactly what your price covers.
Summary
Traverse the land of fire and ice, from the thundering waterfalls of the south to the whale-rich waters of the north. Walk inside a glacier, soak in secluded geothermal pools, and meet researchers protecting the Arctic ecosystem. Guided by experts, explore a landscape defined by volcanic power and glacial beauty.
Itinerary
Day 1
Reykjavik
Welcome to Iceland. Your expedition begins as you touch down in Keflavík airport. You will be met and transferred to your hotel–crossing the moss-covered lava fields to reach Reykjavík, the world’s northernmost capital. In the evening, meet your fellow travellers and National Geographic Expedition Leader for an introduction and welcome reception. Enjoy a short presentation from the National Geographic Expedition Expert before heading to a local restaurant for dinner, sampling modern Icelandic cuisine and sharing toasts as you prepare for your exploration of this dynamic island.
Day 2
Reykjavik/Hella
Venture to the stunning southern coast of Iceland, a landscape shaped by the earth’s powerful natural forces over millions of years. Begin at the Lava Centre for an exclusive tour with a leading volcanologist. Gain unique insight into the magmatic forces rumbling beneath your feet. Continue to Seljalandsfoss, walking behind the thundering curtain of water to feel the cool spray on your face. Then, strap on crampons for a guided hike on Sólheimajökul glacier. Traverse the gleaming blue ice and deep crevasses, witnessing firsthand the immense power of the ice cap before settling into your hotel for the night.
Day 3
Hella
Explore the famed Golden Circle, where the earth’s power is once again on full display. Feel the ground shake at Gullfoss, the "Golden Falls," and watch the Strokkur geyser erupt skyward in a column of steaming water. Stop at the Friðheimar Greenhouse and learn how they harness geothermal energy to grow food year-round, then enjoy a lunch served on site. Conclude at Þingvellir National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site that sits atop of the Mid-Atlantic Ridge, separating the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates, and stand where the continents are slowly drifting apart.
Day 4
Hella/Húsafell
Continue west through the rugged landscapes of Borgarnes, where jagged peaks rise from the sea. In Húsafell, board a massive 8-wheel glacier truck to ascend the slopes of Langjökull, then venture into the glacier itself, walking through illuminated, man-made tunnels carved deep into the blue heart of the ice cap. Feel the ancient chill of the ice as a glaciologist explains the science of ice cores and the impact of climate change on this fragile environment. In the evening, settle into your hotel, surrounded by the silence of the highlands.
Day 5
Húsafell
Descend into the darkness of Viðgelmir, the largest lava tube in Iceland. Set off with a local guide to explore the colorful rock formations and learn about Viking outlaws who once hid here. Then, marvel at the Hraunfossar waterfalls, where glacial water streams mysteriously from beneath a lava field. In the afternoon, enjoy an unforgettable private experience at the Húsafell Canyon Baths. Relax in secluded, stone-lined pools fed by natural hot springs, gazing out at the remote canyon walls — a moment of pure geothermal bliss before a delicious dinner.
Day 6
Húsafell/Akureyri
Travel north across the highland moors to the Skagafjörður region. Step back in time at the Glaumbær Turf Museum, wandering through traditional 18th-century sod farmhouses that blend seamlessly into the landscape. Continue to Akureyri, the "Capital of the North" and stroll through the Akureyri Botanical Garden, admiring a surprising collection of Arctic and foreign flora thriving just miles from the Arctic Circle.
Day 7
Akureyri
Drive along the coast to Húsavik, the whale watching capital of Iceland. Visit the University of Iceland research center for an exclusive meeting with a marine biologist. Learn about their research into cetacean populations and sustainable fishing then take to the sea on a whale watching boat. Scan the dark, cold waters of Skjálfandi Bay for the blow of humpback, minke, and blue whales, hoping to catch a glimpse of these giants breaching against a backdrop of snow-capped mountains. Return to Akureyri for some free time to explore or relax before dinner in the evening.
Day 8
Akureyri/Reykjavik
Fly back to Reykjavík this morning, watching the volcanic landscape pass below you. Visit the Perlan Museum, a glass-domed landmark offering 360-degree views of the city. Explore interactive exhibits showcasing Iceland’s geology, glaciers, and climate, including a real indoor ice cave. Spend the afternoon exploring the vibrant streets of Reykjavik on your own, perhaps take an optional visit to soak in the thermal springs of the Sky Lagoon before a farewell dinner in the evening.
Day 9
Reykjavik
Your expedition to Iceland concludes today. After breakfast, enjoy a final breath of fresh Arctic air before your transfer to Keflavík International Airport, provided at any time during the day.
What's Included
Accommodation
Hotels (8 nts).
Meals
Breakfasts: 8, Lunches: 4, Dinners: 8
Vegetarian options are available on all meals throughout the adventure.
Vegetarian options availableLocal Guide
GuidedThis adventure is led by a local guide throughout. The main language of this adventure is English. Please contact us for other languages available.
Airport Transfers
Arrival OnlyAn airport transfer to the start of the tour is included. Please contact our team if you require a quote for a return transfer.
Wifi
Wifi is available during the adventure. In some areas and / or accommodation / transport Wifi may be free.
Dates & Prices
May 2027
from £10,249Jun 2027
from £10,799Jul 2027
from £10,799Aug 2027
from £10,799Sep 2027
from £10,249
- Saturday 15 May 2027to Sunday 23 May 20276+ spaces of 22 leftGuaranteed Departure£10,249Pay MonthlyBest offerBook for£250 today, pay the rest later
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What changes when you go private
Travel with just your own group
No other travellers on the trip — just the people you choose to bringTravel on your schedule
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Enjoy this handcrafted itinerary with a dedicated private guide just for you.
Essential trip information
Our Important Notes and Packing List cover all essentials, from necessary equipment to inclusions, ensuring you're fully equipped and informed for this extraordinary adventure and more.
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