Volcanoes and Glaciers

Day 1 - Three Peaks Volcano

Arrive in Keflavik and meet your personal guide who will take you to the extinct volcano, Thrihnukagigur. The 45 minute hike to the crater affords a panoramic view of Reykjavik and the surrounding lava fields. Descend 200m into the incredible magma chamber.

Later, if desired, hike along the Reykjadalur Valley and relax and bathe in the warm waters of the geothermal pools.

Day 2 - Mount Hekla, The Highlands & Eldgja volcanic fissure

Your guide will drive you through the Mount Hekla vicinity, one of the world’s most famous volcanoes, which last erupted in 2000. The landscape and  lava fields around Hekla are quite humbling. You will pass by Fjallabak Nature Reserve.  Your next stop will be the infamous, Landmannalaugar (nature reserve) in the highlands. The colours and views of the craters, mountains and valleys are awe-inspiring and one of a kind! You can walk through the Laugahraun lava field and bathe in the geothermically heated stream.

You can then explore Eldgja volcanic fissure and hike along the ‘line of fire’ where the earth split open a thousand years ago resulting in a huge eruption.

Day 3 - Waterfalls & Svinafellsjokull Glacier

The next morning as you head east along the coastal road, you will pass by Stjornafoss waterfall. You will then continue onto Skaftafell National Park where you can hike for a couple of hours, if desired, admiring the beautiful landscape and taking in the striking waterfall, Svartifoss (with its distinctive basalt column rock formations). Next it’s onto the beautiful Svinafellsjokull outlet glacier which boasts great views over the valley glacier and up to the highest peak in Iceland, Hvannadalshnukur. Hike over the valley glacier with your guide.

Day 4 - Jokulsarlon & Vatnajokull

This morning you will discover the awe-inspiring Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon where large blocks of ice break off Europe’s largest glacier, Vatnajokull and drift across this unique lagoon. You can go for a walk along the banks of the lagoon, keeping an eye out for seals . Visit the diamond beach a few minutes away where the remnants of the icebergs wash up (an incredible and unique sight). In the afternoon you will continue onto Hofn where you can hike along the scenic coastline. The mountains and glaciers around Hofn are extremely impressive.

Additional excursions:

• boat ride amongst the icebergs on the glacier lagoon
• snowmobiling on Vatnajokull

Day 5 - Reykjavik

This morning you will fly from Hofn to Reykjavik where you can explore some of the many museums, galleries shops and restaurants. The view from Hallgrimsborgir Church is the best one in town. A visit to one of the geothermal municipal pools is highly recommended. This is where locals relax and catch up; a great alternative to socialising in the local pub or bar (and healthier for the body!). If you’re up for another hike, you can walk to the westernmost tip of Reykjavik towards the lighthouse. There is also a small natural hot pool close to the black basalt rock beach.

Day 6 - The Blue Lagoon or Reykjanes Peninsula

Depending on the time of your flight you could spend some time relaxing in the notorious Blue Lagoon geothermal spa where you can relax and unwind and give your body a well-deserved rest. Alternatively, you could walk along the Reykjanes Peninsula and visit Gunnuhver Hot Springs. Then it’s time to say farewell to Iceland (for now).