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Iceland is an island of dramatic contrast and a landscape forged by fire and ice. Streaming lava fields and hot pools reflect its volcanic nature. Massive glaciers sculpt the mountains and valleys leaving thundering waterfalls and plunging fjords. The Icelandic people combine a reverence for their Viking heritage and ancient language with an industrialized and progressive society. Discover the spectacular landscapes and proud people of this small island nation during this fascinating journey.
Day 1: New York / Reykjavik, Iceland
We depart JFK International Airport, New York for our overnight flight to Iceland. Meals aloft. Morning arrival in Reykjavik International Airport.
Day 2: Reykjavik, Iceland
Your tour begins in Reykjavik where you embark on a fascinating city tour which highlights the 19th century Parliament House, Austurvollur Square, the Hofoi House and Tjornin Lake. Visit the National Museum of Iceland where new and dynamic exhibitions increase the knowledge of Icelandic cultural heritage from the nation’s earliest settlement to modern day. Gather this evening for a welcome reception and dinner. Today dinner (included) and overnight in Centerhotel Plaza, Reykjavic.
Day 3: Reykjavic / Reykjanes Peninsula
During this full day excursion explore scenic landscape of the Reykjanes Peninsula, stopping at Bassastadir, an ancient Viking site, now the official residence of the current president. Continue on to Lake Kleifarvain to see the amazing display of geothermal activity, includiong steaming fumaroles, hot springs and mud pots. We conclude the day at the famous Blue Lagoon, a natural geothermal in the middle of a large dramatic lava field. Enjoy time to take a swim in this pleasantly warm and mineral rich water. Today breakfast is included. Overnight in Centerhotel Plaza, Reykjavic.
Day 4: Reykjavic / Golden Circle / Vik
Today we travel to the “Golden Circle” which encompasses many of island’s most renowned natural scenic wonders. Thingvellir National Park is Iceland’s most historic site and most beautiful places. The oldest existing Parliament in the world first met here in AD 930. The park also features the geologically significant Mid-Atlantic Ridge, where the American and European tectonic plates meet. Later continue on to the amazing hot springs of Geysir, then marvel at one of the island’s greatest natural wonders, the two-tiered Gullfoss Waterfall. We continue south to Vik, a small town set along Iceland’s southern dramatic coast where black sand beaches, crashing waves and towering figures of black rock form an unforgettable feast for the eyes. Today breakfast and dinner are included and overnight will be in Hotel Hofdabrekka in Vik.
Day 5: Vik / Skatafell National Park
Today we begin our day a Skattafell National Park, a beautiful green oasis located near the highest peak in Iceland. Later, an unforgettable boat trip (weather permitting) amid graceful, floating icebergs serves as an introduction to Iceland’s dramatic glaciers. Also a perfect opportunity the island’s many species of birds. Today breakfast and dinner will be included and overnight will be in Hotel Hofdabrekka in Vik.
Day 6: Vik /Reykjavic
On the trip back to Reykjavic we will travel across fertile pastures, sand flats and glacier rivers en route to Skogar, a small settlement located near a magnificent waterfall. Visit Skogar’s Folk Museum which houses and interesting collection of Icelandic artifacts. The next stop will be at a traditional Icelandic horse farm. We will learn how Iceland’s horses are directly descended from those brought by the Vikings and how Iceland is preserving this heritage. Today breakfast will be included and overnight will be in Centerhotel Plaza, Reykjavic.
Day 7: Reykjavic
Today is at leisure to explore this wonderful capital city of Iceland with it’s many art galleries and museums. It’s also a great time to shop in it’s many quaint boutiques and shops. You may choose to join an “Optional Excursion” such as Whale Watching or “Super Jeep Glacier Excursion” to the top of Iceland’s Langjokull Glacier. (Ask for details) Tonight we gather for a farewell dinner. Today breakfast and dinner are included and overnight is in Centerhotel Plaza, Reykjavic.
Day 8: Reykjavic/New York
Unfortunately, all good things come to an end and our tour ends with many pleasant and wonderful memories of a land little known to most of the world. We depart with a better understanding of the proud lives and country of our Viking neighbors to the north east.
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