Iceland's Celestial and Earthly Wonders

STYLE: Fun exploration

STANDARD: 4 - 5 Star

Day 1 - Friday, February 1, 2025 - Reykjavik Arrival & Exploration

Welcome to the land of fire and ice! Your exciting expedition begins in the vibrant heart of Reykjavik, Iceland's one-of-a-kind capital. Upon arrival, a warm transfer whisks you from the airport to your comfortable hotel, where your fellow adventurers await. If your flight gets you in early, take advantage of the extra time to wander the charming streets of the world's northernmost capital. Consider a visit to the National Museum, where Iceland's captivating history comes to life through immersive exhibits. Gather with your fellow travelers for a delectable dinner at one of Reykjavik's fantastic local restaurants. Here, you'll not only savor the flavors of Icelandic cuisine but also learn about the local produce that plays a starring role in these culinary delights. (D)

Day 2 - Saturday, February 2, 2025 - Reykjavik 

Get ready to unravel the tapestry of Reykjavik's allure. Embark on a short tour led by your experienced guide, introducing you to the city's main highlights and quirky charm. With the evening at your leisure, lose yourself in the city's vibrant atmosphere. (B)

Day 3 - Sunday, February 3, 2025 Thingvellir National Park & Borgarfjordur

Today ushers you into the heart of Icelandic history and geology. Set your course for Thingvellir National Park, a remarkable site that once housed Iceland's ancient parliament and is a geological marvel in its own right. As you journey through the Borgarfjordur region, discover the mesmerizing Hraunfossar and Barnafossar waterfalls, each a unique work of nature's art. Pause at Deildartunguhver, where Europe's hottest water spring bubbles, before settling in for the night in the southern reaches of the Snaefellsnes Peninsula. (B.D)

Day 4 - Monday, February 4, 2025 Snaefellsnes Peninsula & Skagafjordur

The captivating Snaefellsnes Peninsula unfolds before you today. Marvel at the towering Snaefellsjokull glacier, which conceals a dormant volcano beneath its icy cloak. Explore basaltic pebble beaches adorned with enigmatic lava formations, and soak in the breathtaking beauty of Arnarstapi's coastal cliffs and rich birdlife. Your journey then leads to Grundarfjordur, known for its local artist, Liston. Continue to Saudarkrokur, a gem on Skagafjordur Fjord, where your Feature Stay at Hotel Tindastoll promises a unique and cozy experience. (B,D)

Day 5 - Tuesday, February 5, 2025 Trollaskagi Peninsula & Akureyri

Embark on a picturesque drive around the captivating Trollaskagi Peninsula. Your destination: Siglufjordur, a quaint fishing town nestled among soaring mountains and serene fjords. Take in the scenic coastal views and even dip your toes into the Arctic Ocean, a truly memorable experience. Journey to Akureyri, Iceland's second-largest town, where the iconic church stands as a testament to the town's character. (B)

Day 6 - Wednesday, February 6, 2025 Exploration in Akureyri

Relish an extra day in Akureyri, allowing for a leisurely exploration. Begin your day at the Exploration Museum Husavik, uncovering Iceland's fascinating involvement in lunar exploration. Delight in a tranquil afternoon at geothermal baths, immersing yourself in the soothing waters of relaxation.

Day 7 - Thursday, February 7, 2025 Husavik Whale Watching & Glacial Majesty

Step into a world of wonder as you set sail on an eco-friendly whale watching expedition in Husavik. Aboard a carbon-neutral electric boat, you'll glide through the Arctic waters, encountering the majestic minke and humpback whales.  From the ocean's embrace, your adventure takes you to the mesmerizing Godafoss waterfall. Aptly named "The Waterfall of the Gods," it's a sight that resonates with Iceland's mythical past. Continue your journey to the captivating Lake Myvatn area, a geological wonderland that provides a glimpse into the Earth's primal forces. Explore this intriguing landscape, where bubbling mud pots, volcanic craters, and otherworldly formations create a surreal tableau. (B,D)

Day 8 - Friday, February 8, 2025 Glacial Lagoon Marvels & Northern Adventure

Prepare for a day of unparalleled beauty as you embark on a journey along Iceland's eastern coastline, where nature's artistry is on full display. The coastal road treats you to breathtaking vistas, revealing a diverse landscape of soaring mountains and serene fjords. Your destination is the mesmerizing Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon, a realm of milky blue waters adorned with colossal icebergs. Here, you'll embark on an unforgettable boat tour, coming face to face with the grandeur of icebergs originating from Vatnajokull, Europe's largest ice cap. As the day progresses, you'll find yourself drawn to Fosshotel Glacier Lagoon, your haven for the evening. Immerse yourself in the tranquil ambiance and enjoy an exquisite dinner at the on-site restaurant, savoring the flavors of local Icelandic produce. (B,D)

Day 9 - Saturday, February 9, 2025 Glacial Wonders & Sustainable Insights

Dive into the heart of Iceland's natural wonders as you journey to Skaftafell National Park. Embark on a walk to the glacier tongue of the same name, feeling the palpable connection to Iceland's icy realms. En route, traverse the stark black sands and lava formations born from the cataclysmic Laki eruption of 1782-1783, an event that has left an indelible mark on the country's history and culture. Pass by the village of Vik, a quaint settlement nestled against the dramatic backdrop of towering basalt cliffs. Continue your exploration of Iceland's awe-inspiring South Shore, where the Solheimajokull glacier and the enigmatic Reynisdrangar rock formations await. In the afternoon, your journey takes a sustainable turn as you visit an eco-farm in the Hvolsvollur Valley. Learn about the farm's pioneering efforts in responsible tourism and sustainability, and become part of a reforestation project that combats CO2 emissions and soil erosion. Plant trees in the surrounding hills, contributing to the preservation of Iceland's natural beauty. (B)

Day 10 - Sunday, February 10, 2025 Greenhouse Marvels & Geothermal Wonders

Prepare for a day of contrasts that showcase Iceland's ingenuity and geothermal treasures. Visit Friðheimar, a remarkable greenhouse where around 10,000 plants thrive year-round in Iceland's cold climate. Immerse yourself in an informative talk about this fascinating feat, discovering how the greenhouse creates warm Mediterranean conditions, defying the harsh winter.

Your journey then leads to the geothermal region of Geysir, where you'll witness the spouting hot springs of Geysir and the ever-reliable Strokkur, erupting every ten minutes on average. Continue to Gullfoss, the renowned "Golden Waterfall," where, on sunny days, rainbows weave a kaleidoscope of colors through the cascading spray. (B,L)

Day 11 - Monday, February 11, 2025 Coastal Culinary Farewell

Your Icelandic adventure draws to a close, but not without a final taste of the country's coastal splendor. As you journey back to Reykjavik Airport, a special stop awaits: an early lobster lunch at a charming coastal restaurant. Savor the flavors of the sea as you reflect on the remarkable journey you've undertaken.

With memories of glacial lagoons, sustainable endeavors, and cultural encounters etched into your heart, bid farewell to Iceland, enriched by a tapestry of experiences that will remain with you for a lifetime. (B)

Inclusions:

· Tour Host – Fred Watson

· Tour Manager – Marnie Ogg

· Accommodation as listed

- Motorcoach transfers

· Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner daily

· Entry to all sights, and activities listed

· Air-conditioned coach and driver

· Local Guides, behind-the-scenes experiences

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Not included:

· International Flights - into and out of Reykjavik

· Tips

· Drinks

· Items of personal nature

· Travel Insurance

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​Cost: $8,945 per person (16 - 20 guests)^

Single Supplement: $1,595

*Tour will operate with a minimum of 16 /maximum 20 guests

Payment schedule

$500 pp - nonrefundable deposit

$2,000 pp- 1 October 2024

finals - 2 December 2024

NOTES

Tour itinerary and pricing are subject to change at any time.  Your place is confirmed on receipt of a non-refundable deposit.

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Finals are due 80 days prior to departure. Please see our terms and conditions for cancellation details. All prices are in Australian dollars and subject to currency fluctuations. 

If the minimum numbers (16 pax) are not met alternative travel arrangements may be made, however in the instance that this is not possible, the tour may be cancelled. and your deposit returned. Please note twin rooms are based on two co-travellers sharing a room - if you choose this option as a single traveller, you may be required to pay the full supplement in the event no other single traveller wishes to share. Travel insurance is required to participate.