Natural Wonders of Iceland


Natural Wonders of Iceland is an experience designed to see, feel and explore some of Iceland's spectacular natural wonders.  From cascading waterfalls, spurting geysers and bubbling hot springs; towering volcanoes, glistening glaciers and extensive lava fields; you will literally be able to feel the volcanic energy around you.  Based in a traditional Icelandic hotel in the centre of Reykjavik, each day you will explore different areas, encountering the country's unique geological landscapes, volcanic energy and hopefully some of the many whales which reside in Iceland's waters.

Only a moderate level of fitness is required for all activities and day trips undertaken during your stay in Iceland.  Your journey will begin with a walk behind Seljalandsfoss waterfall, followed by a hike over the ancient glacier of Sólheimajökull, then a stroll along the black sand beach of Reynisfjara, with its famous basalt columns and caves.  Your geological exploration continues with visits to the 60 metre high cascading falls of Skógafoss, through some of Iceland's fertile farmlands and areas of historic interest and past the foothills of the notorious Eyjafjallajökull volcano (infamous for the 2010 volcanic eruption).

The Golden Circle is renowned for its extraordinary geological formations and to explore it we need to make use of a broad wheeled four wheel drive, commonly referred to as a 'Super Jeep'.  This journey will begin underground in the Gjábakkahellir cave where you can witness up close how natural forces have formed Iceland's fascinating geological landscapes.  This exciting jeep safari will take you to the spectacular 32 metre high Gulfoss waterfall, the famous Geysir hot springs and Thingvellir National Park, where you will witness one of the only two tectonic rift valleys in the world.

On the outskirts of the picturesque town of Hveragerð, lies the geothermal valley of Reykjadalur, an area overflowing with geothermal energy. Throughout the year, pillars of steam can be seen rising from hot springs in and around the town.  Here we will be taken on a leisurely hike through this beautiful green and flourishing valley, past gurgling mud pots, hot springs and mountain waterfalls, with the opportunity to bathe in the naturally heated streams.

Your exploration continues by 4WD to Thorsmork, a beautiful valley surrounded by glacers and mountains. You will witness the effects from the Eyjafallajokull eruption of 2010. This quite challenging hike is around 16km in total with an elevation gain of 700 - 800 metres. During the summer, the colours of the surrounding mountains, glacier views and craters make for some fantastic scenery.

After all the inland exploration and geological excitement, we will then take you out off the coast of Reykjavik in search of whales. Of course, nothing is guaranteed in Nature, but species most often spotted include minke, humpback, blue, fin, sei, sperm, orca and pilot whales.

Your journey draws to a close with a relaxing bathe in the world famous Blue Lagoon. Here you can soak up the scenic beauty, fresh air and geothermal seawater after a week's exploration in this unique geological island.

Northern Lights

The itinerary for this trip can run as written 1st May - 30th September. Outside of that period some elements will need some modification. An option from mid Sept - March is to incorporate some night time opportunities to see the Northern Lights (Aurora borealis).

Itinerary

Sample 7 Day Itinerary

Please note that this itinerary can be shortened, lengthened and changed to incorporate any of the other short trips you can find through the Iceland Home Page on our website.

Day 1: Arrive Reykjavik

Fly to Reykjavik on the afternoon or evening flight.  Please Contact Us to receive a flight price quotes.

You will step onboard a pre-arranged shuttle to your hotel.

If you arrive early enough, you will be able to join a free walking tour of Reykjavik.

You will be spending the next 6 nights in a comfortable traditional style hotel within the heart of Reykjavik, conveniently located on one of the city's oldest streets, close to shops, restaurants and bars.  Hotel upgrades can be arranged.

Day 2: South Coast Glacier Hiking, Waterfalls & Volcanoes

Your first day of Icleandic exploration will begin with a visit to the magnificent Seljalandsfoss waterfall, where you will get the opportunity to walk behind the cascading falls.  You will then walk upon the ice of the 700 year old Sólheimajökull glacier and afterwards take a leisurely stroll along the black sandy beach of Reynisfjara, characterised by its famous basalt columns and caves.  The day is rounded off with a visit to the 60 metre high thundering waterfall of Skógafoss and insightful exploration through fertile farmland and through the foothills of the infamous Eyjafjallajökull volcano.  This day trip is the ideal way to spend your first full day in Iceland and will provide an interesting initial insight into the country's fascinating geology.

Day 3: Golden Circle Safari & Lava Caving

In a specially designed Super Jeep, this morning you will head to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Þingvellir National Park and explore the lava caves.  Here you will also be able to witness one of the only two tectonic rift valleys in the world.  In the afternoon you will journey to Iceland's Golden Circle in a Super Jeep and witness such fascinating geological wonders as the famous Geysir Hot Springs and the impressive waterfall of Gullfoss.  Please Click Here for more details.

Day 4: Hiking Amidst Iceland’s Hot Springs

Today you will be picked up from Reykjavik in the morning to begin an interesting half day hike into the beautiful Reykjadalur Valley. During the summer, the landscape is characterised by colourful flowers, steaming hot springs and rushing mountain streams.  Don't forget your bathing suit, as you will also get the chance to take a relaxing dip in the hot springs.  Click Here to read more about this interesting half day trip.

Day 5: Thorsmork Volcano Hike & Super Jeep

You will be picked up from Reykajvik from 8am in a Superjeep, seating 5 – 14 for the ultimate small group experience!

Thorsmork, a beautiful valley surrounded by glaciers and mountains, is the setting for today’s tour. Your tour starts with a pick you up from your hotel in Reykjavík and from there you will drive out of the city heading towards the east of the island. After passing through a few small villages you will arrive at the first stop of today‘s tour, the mighty Seljalandsfoss waterfall.  Seljalandsfoss is the famous waterfall that is best known for the fact that when conditions are good, you can walk behind it, enjoying it from both sides.

Next, you will pass Gígjökull glacier where you will see some of the effects of the famous Eyjafjallajökull eruption of 2010 before arriving in Thorsmork. From Basar cabin, in the heart of Thorsmork, you will start your hike to Fimmvorduhals, a popular hiking route among locals in Iceland. Here you will see the two craters, Magni and Modi, formed in this infamous eruption. The new lava, large craters, glacier view along with the surrounding mountains and vibrant colors make this hike truly outstanding. The elevation gain is between 700-800 meters and length approximately 16 km in total.The Thorsmork – Fimmvorduhals hike should not be missed by any outdoor enthusiasts visiting Iceland. Get physically active while you enjoy one of the most scenic places you will ever come across. In Thorsmork, every season has its charm, giving you a great opportunity to visit again and again.

Day 6: Whale Watching & the Blue Lagoon

This morning we take to a boat in search of whales in Faxafló Bay from Reykjavik.  During this whale watching trip, you will be on the lookout for such species as minke, humpback, fin and orca.  For further details about this expert guided whale watching trip, please Click Here.    

This afternoon you will head to Iceland's famous geothermal spa - the Blue Lagoon for an ideal finale to your week of geological exploration.  Here you will be able to soak up the beauty of your surroundings and breathe in the fresh air whilst bathing in the naturally heated pure geothermal seawater.

Day 7: Depart Reykjavik

After breakfast, a shuttle transfer bus will come to your hotel and take you to the airport.  Alternatively, if you are departing on the afternoon flight, you will have the morning free to explore Reykjavik and spend as you wish.

Dates

The majority of the activities specified within this 7 day itinerary can be enjoyed all year round.  The hiking trip on Day 5 however, only operates from 15th June - 30th September, so please Contact Us to discuss other day trip options available outside these dates.

Price includes
All accommodation
Transfers between airport and Reykjavik
Meals as specified (B=breakfast L=lunch D=dinner)
All guided activities and equipment as specified in the itinerary

Price excludes
International flights
Blue Lagoon Entrance Ticket
Meals and services not otherwise specified
Evening meals
Items of a personal nature such as telephone calls, laundry etc
Travel insurance
Tips

Single Supplement For single occupancy standard rooms, there will be an additional supplement.  Single Supplements start from £315

Upgrades Double / Twin Deluxe Room upgrades are available from £75 per person (6 nights)
Single Room upgrades are available from £45 (6 nights)

Flights Please call us for a quote on flights. We can arrange your flight for you from a choice of several airports within the UK.

All trips (apart from Day 2) are guided in small groups of between 2 and 20 people (50 - 200 on the whale watching trip)

Activity Level Moderate

  • Humpback Whale Tail Iceland
  • Geyser Hot Spring Golden Circle Iceland
  • Skogarfoss Waterfall Iceland
  • Thorsmork Volcano Hike
  • Gullfoss Waterfall Iceland
  • Hot Spring Hunt in Winter
  • Hot Spring Hunt in Summer
  • Thingvellir National Park Iceland
  • Iceland Hot Spring Hunt Summer
  • Blue Lagoon Iceland
  • Geyser Hot Spring Iceland Ready to Errupt
  • Thingvellir National Park Iceland
  • Northern Lights Jeep Safari Iceland
  • Seljalandsfoss Waterfall Iceland
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