Iceland Circumnavigation: Helicopters, Glaciers & Volcanoes

Arrive at the international airport in Keflavik, and transfer independently to your included hotel in Reykjavik, which is about 40 minutes away. Depending on your arrival time, you may wish to explore Iceland’s fascinating capital. Plenty of cultural and historical landmarks are located right near the walkable city center.

Enjoy your complimentary breakfast at the hotel. Your transfer to the ship is scheduled for the afternoon, leaving you time to explore Reykjavik in the morning and have lunch on your own before you rendezvous back at the hotel for the bus transfer to the port.

The scenic Snaefellsnes Peninsula in West Iceland is renowned for its  diverse landscapes: glaciers, mountains, lava fields, geothermal areas and ruggedly beautiful coastlines. Often referred to as “miniature Iceland” or “Iceland in a nutshell,” the Snaefellsnes Peninsula, while not vast, is a microcosm of all of the natural wonders and dramatic landscapes you’ll see throughout Iceland.

This exciting day begins with disembarking the ship and traveling by coach bus—with local guides and members of your expedition team—to visit the lonely Kirkjufell (“Church Mountain”), which rises from the sea as a dramatic backdrop for Kirkjufellsfoss waterfall—undoubtedly the most photographed location in all of Iceland. Kirkjufell may be extra familiar to fans of “Game of Thrones” in which the mountain appeared as one of the landmarks beyond “The Wall.” The tour of the peninsula may also include visits to some of the tiny, beautiful villages that dot the peninsula. The majority of these small settlements, the most notable of which include Arnarstapi, Grundarfjörður and Stykkishólmur, are located on the northern side of the peninsula, where communities rely on the rich fishing grounds of Breiðafjörður Bay. Tourism and fishing drive the local economy.

You’ll also be able to stretch your legs on a short walk along a craggy but undemanding foot path along coastal cliffs that offers views of the Arnarstapi rock arch, also known as Gatklettur, formed from massive basalt columns. A section of this short trail passes through a lava field, a signature Icelandic experience. Other highlights of today’s outing include a visit to the Bjarnarhöfn Shark Museum, and an Icelandic food tasting experience. You can’t leave Iceland without sampling hakarl (fermented shark).

Each region of Iceland has its own appeal for nature seekers, birding enthusiasts and history-lovers; the seldom-visited Westfjords, where the land meets the sea in the most dramatic fashion, is no exception. Often referred to as “Iceland’s best-kept secret,” this rugged peninsula at the country’s remote northwestern tip is rife with fjords, and mountains that slope gracefully down to the sea. Spend your time exploring the fjords and shores of Iceland’s oldest region, enjoying its kaleidoscope of diverse land and seascapes. Here, tumbling cliffs and gushing waterfalls alternate with colorful beaches, and rolling green hills lead up to high moorlands dotted with rocky outcrops, small lakes and the occasional shaggy Icelandic sheep or pony grazing in the distance. A few modest outposts of civilization, in the form of small fishing communities nestled along the fjords and shores of the Denmark Strait, face out into the mighty Atlantic—keeping alive a maritime heritage going back to the Viking days.

The Westfjords are the least developed parts of Iceland’s coastal areas and, consequently, the wildest. Venture into this territory on Zodiac cruises and during guided shore landings at unspoiled wilderness areas where you can hike and explore on foot. Also hope to visit remote settlements such as the island farm at Vigur, and witness the thousands of seabirds—including puffins, guillemots, fulmars and razorbills—at Látrabjarg, one of the largest bird cliffs in Europe. This is a much sought-after destination for birders and ornithologists from around the world. Also visit the Heritage Museum at Hnjótur, which showcases the history of everyday life in the Westfjords. If weather conditions are favorable, aim to go heli flightseeing during your time in the Westfjords.

Iceland is truly a land of contrasts. This becomes increasingly evident over the next 2 days as your coach bus follows the iconic Diamond Circle route. You’ll soon learn that the north of Iceland, with its long valleys and peninsulas, is interspersed with mountains, lava fields and smooth hills carved out over time by the unceasing river flow. Many first-time visitors to the region are surprised to discover that the deep and numerous indentations along the northern coasts are alternately lush with vegetation—or completely barren. Your sense of awe will be intensified as you approach the Arctic Circle and the captivating brilliance of the midnight sun.

Prepare to be overwhelmed by some of the most impressive waterfalls in Europe: Dettifoss (unrivalled in its thunderous roar), the historic Goðafoss (also known as “Waterfall of the Gods”) and the beautiful Aldeyjarfoss (which cascades 65 feet, or 20 meters, over a wall of hexagonal basalt columns). You’ll be equally awestruck by the spectacular Kolugljúfur and Jökulsárgljúfur gorges, the rocky sea stacks of Hvítserk and Stórakarl, the horseshoe-shaped Ásbyrgi Canyon, the geological wonders of Mývatn and the lava fields of Dimmuborgir—which appeared in numerous scenes in “Game of Thrones.” Anticipate some surreal moments at Hverir, where you’ll witness bubbling mud pots and geothermal vents, and likewise at Skútustaðir, where you’ll encounter pseudocraters, volcanic features formed not by eruptions but by steam from underground.

You can also fulfill a polar milestone on this voyage by crossing the Arctic Circle. In fact, you’ll get to visit the small island of Grímsey (population: 70), which is the only part of Iceland that lies within the Arctic Circle. Expect to see large populations of puffins. While the stunning scenery will prompt you to reach for your camera over and over again, stand still for a moment, put down your device and simply embrace the wonder of this enchanting landscape.

East Iceland is characterized by fantastic scenery, featuring deep narrow fjords and tall mountains. The region is home to the country’s largest forest (Hallormsstaðaskógur), lush farmlands and plenty of streams and mountains. Thanks to the abundant fjords and their natural harbors, picturesque fishing villages line the coast. Iceland’s biggest rhyolite (volcanic) formations—those easily accessible from an inhabited area—are found around the village of Borgarfjörður Eystri, while impressive magma chambers filled with colorful mineral deposits can be visited along the eastern coast. In the summer months, the east of Iceland becomes a creative hub for artists and young people from Iceland and abroad.

You’ll have opportunities on these 2 days to view some of this stunning scenery during a heli flightseeing adventure (weather permitting, of course), and during a coach excursion to Vatnajökull National Park, with its abundance of glaciers (notably Vatnajökull), volcanoes, waterfalls and geothermal springs. Plentiful activities await in the park: travel to Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon, a stunning glacial lake; explore the spectacular icebergs at Jökulsárlón; spend time at black sand Diamond Beach; and take a guided glacier hike in Skaftafell area.

Today, journey to The Westman Islands by ship and Zodiac. The archipelago of 15 islands, and surrounding sea cliffs, are teeming with birdlife. In fact, The Westman Islands group is home to one of the largest puffin colonies in the world, and is also renowned for its rich fishing grounds and whale population. Formed by below-sea-level eruptions, the islands’ soil is shallow and not suitable for agriculture. You’ll see large stretches of rocky soil and lava. However, some rare plants grow in Herjólfsdalur valley. Also visit Heimaey, the only inhabited island, to see the puffins at Stórhöfði. There’s also a beluga sanctuary and an oceanarium.

You’ll disembark in Reykjavik, Iceland’s bustling capital, at the end of your journey. If you have booked post-expedition accommodation, then be transferred to a central downtown location.

Arrive at the international airport in Keflavik, and transfer independently to your included hotel in Reykjavik, which is about 40 minutes away. Depending on your arrival time, you may wish to explore Iceland’s fascinating capital. Plenty of cultural and historical landmarks are located right near the walkable city center.

Enjoy your complimentary breakfast at the hotel. Your transfer to the ship is scheduled for the afternoon, leaving you time to explore Reykjavik in the morning and have lunch on your own before you rendezvous back at the hotel for the bus transfer to the port.

The seldom-visited Westfjords—where land meets sea in the most dramatic fashion—are often referred to as “Iceland’s best-kept secret.” This rugged peninsula at the country’s remote northwestern tip is rife with fjords, mountains, tumbling cliffs, gushing waterfalls, colorful beaches, rolling green hills, high moorlands dotted with rocky outcrops, small lakes, and the occasional shaggy Icelandic sheep or grazing pony. A few modest outposts of civilization, in the form of small fishing communities nestled along the fjords and shores of the Denmark Strait, face out into the mighty Atlantic, keeping alive a maritime heritage that stretches back to the Viking days. The Westfjords are the least developed of Iceland’s coastal areas and, consequently, the wildest. Guests will venture into this territory on Zodiac cruises and guided shore landings at unspoiled wilderness sites where they can hike and explore on foot.

One of the many waterfall highlights is Dynjandi, meaning “thunderous.” Without a doubt, it’s one of the most spectacular waterfalls in Iceland. The water plunges from a height of 100 meters (328 feet), tumbling over numerous ledges to create an ethereal, otherworldly ambience.

You’ll also get to visit Vigur, a private island where guests can delve into Icelandic culture and heritage as far back as the 11th century. Vigur is widely regarded as a capsule of Icelandic heritage. One of the island’s co-owners is polar explorer Felicity Aston, the first woman to ski solo across Antarctica. You’ll learn about the Icelandic tradition of eiderdown harvesting, as well as the wide array of Arctic birdlife and seals that inhabit the island.

It’s estimated that Vigur is home to more than 7,000 breeding ducks, 100,000 puffins, Europe’s largest colony of Black Guillemots, and vast flocks of Arctic terns. You’ll also have opportunities to ramble about the island, taste local food, and visit the island café.

Today’s adventure options include Zodiac cruising, sea kayaking, your paddle excursion program, and, potentially, a guided shore hike. Right across the bay lies Mongufoss, one of Iceland’s most remote and beautiful waterfalls, which you’ll visit by ship. On your final day in the Westfjords, our Expedition Team will seek out more of the region’s rarely visited, remote corners.

Spend the next three days exploring Northern Iceland by Zodiac, on foot, and occasionally by coach. The north of Iceland, with its long valleys and peninsulas, is interspersed with mountains, lava fields, and smooth hills carved over time by the unceasing flow of rivers. Many first-time visitors are surprised to see that the deep indentations along the northern coasts are alternately lush with vegetation—or completely barren. Your sense of awe will grow as you approach the Arctic Circle and experience the captivating brilliance of the midnight sun.

Prepare to be overwhelmed by some of the most impressive waterfalls in Europe, including thunderous Dettifoss and historic Goðafoss, the “Waterfall of the Gods.” Equally striking are the geological wonders of Mývatn and the lava fields of Dimmuborgir— featured in numerous scenes in Game of Thrones. At Hverir, bubbling mud pots and steaming vents create a surreal landscape, while at Skútustaðir you’ll encounter pseudocraters—volcanic features formed not by eruptions but by underground steam.

You can also fulfill a polar milestone on this voyage by crossing the Arctic Circle. We’ll visit Grímsey (population: 70), the only part of Iceland that lies within the Arctic Circle. Expect to see large colonies of puffins. Other highlights in Northern Iceland include Skagafjörður, a fjord known for its impressive birdlife. Guillemots, kittiwakes, puffins, and other seabirds nest on the near-vertical cliffs of Drangey.

Iceland is truly a land of contrasts. This becomes increasingly evident over the next 2 days as your coach bus follows the iconic Diamond Circle route. You’ll soon learn that the north of Iceland, with its long valleys and peninsulas, is interspersed with mountains, lava fields and smooth hills carved out over time by the unceasing river flow. Many first-time visitors to the region are surprised to discover that the deep and numerous indentations along the northern coasts are alternately lush with vegetation—or completely barren. Your sense of awe will be intensified as you approach the Arctic Circle and the captivating brilliance of the midnight sun.

Prepare to be overwhelmed by some of the most impressive waterfalls in Europe: Dettifoss (unrivalled in its thunderous roar), the historic Goðafoss (also known as “Waterfall of the Gods”) and the beautiful Aldeyjarfoss (which cascades 65 feet, or 20 meters, over a wall of hexagonal basalt columns). You’ll be equally awestruck by the spectacular Kolugljúfur and Jökulsárgljúfur gorges, the rocky sea stacks of Hvítserk and Stórakarl, the horseshoe-shaped Ásbyrgi Canyon, the geological wonders of Mývatn and the lava fields of Dimmuborgir—which appeared in numerous scenes in “Game of Thrones.” Anticipate some surreal moments at Hverir, where you’ll witness bubbling mud pots and geothermal vents, and likewise at Skútustaðir, where you’ll encounter pseudocraters, volcanic features formed not by eruptions but by steam from underground.

You can also fulfill a polar milestone on this voyage by crossing the Arctic Circle. In fact, you’ll get to visit the small island of Grímsey (population: 70), which is the only part of Iceland that lies within the Arctic Circle. Expect to see large populations of puffins. While the stunning scenery will prompt you to reach for your camera over and over again, stand still for a moment, put down your device and simply embrace the wonder of this enchanting landscape.

Djúpivogur sits where east and south Iceland meet. Here, the rugged, verdant topography of the east gives way to the gentler forelands of the south, which ultimately rise to Vatnajökull, Iceland’s famous ice cap, crowned by its tallest peaks, the 2,100-meter (6,890 feet) Hvannadalshnúkur. Though Djúpivogur has the infrastructure to welcome ships like Ultramarine, it remains a small community, situated amid ranges of triangular mountain peaks. These mountains are lush with vegetation, accented by rocky outcrops, lingering snowfields, and cascading waterfalls.

From here, you’ll travel westward by coach, as the south coast’s waters are shallow and wave-battered, making them inhospitable for landing. Instead, you’ll journey inland to Vatnajökull National Park, celebrated for its glaciers, volcanoes, waterfalls, and geothermal springs. Explore Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon, marvel at its drifting icebergs, walk along Diamond Beach with its striking black sands, and hike this otherworldly coastline.

Today, journey to The Westman Islands by ship and Zodiac. The archipelago of 15 islands, and surrounding sea cliffs, are teeming with birdlife. In fact, The Westman Islands group is home to one of the largest puffin colonies in the world, and is also renowned for its rich fishing grounds and whale population. Formed by below-sea-level eruptions, the islands’ soil is shallow and not suitable for agriculture. You’ll see large stretches of rocky soil and lava. However, some rare plants grow in Herjólfsdalur valley. Also visit Heimaey, the only inhabited island, to see the puffins at Stórhöfði. There’s also a beluga sanctuary and an oceanarium.

You’ll disembark in Reykjavik, Iceland’s bustling capital, at the end of your journey. If you have booked post-expedition accommodation, then be transferred to a central downtown location.