Stone Independent School Expedition | Reykjavik, Iceland
A STEM-focused expedition into the land of fire and ice
June 9 - 16, 2025
Dive into the Science of Iceland
Embark on an exhilarating STEM expedition to Iceland designed for high school students eager to delve into the wonders of science and nature. This immersive journey combines adventure with education as participants delve into the pristine marine ecosystems to investigate the impact of micro-plastics, gaining firsthand insight into environmental conservation efforts. Traverse the breathtaking landscapes, where towering glaciers and majestic volcanoes serve as living laboratories, offering unparalleled opportunities to study renewable energy sources like geothermal and hydroelectric power. Guided by expert instructors, students will unravel the intricate connections between geology, ecology, and sustainable technology, forging unforgettable memories while fostering a deep appreciation for Iceland's unique natural heritage.
On this expedition, students will:
Understand the geological processes shaping Iceland's landscape, including volcanic activity, glacial erosion, and tectonic plate movement.
Investigate the environmental impact of human activities on Iceland's ecosystems, focusing on topics such as marine pollution, habitat destruction, and climate change.
Explore the principles of renewable energy production through visits to geothermal power plants and hydroelectric facilities gaining insight into Iceland's commitment to sustainable energy solutions.
Examine the biodiversity of Icelandic ecosystems, identifying native plant and animal species and discussing their adaptations to the island's unique environment.
Engage with Icelandic culture and history through interactions with local communities, visits to museums and historical sites, and participation in traditional activities such as Icelandic cuisine tastings.
Develop field research skills by conducting ecological surveys, collecting data on water quality and marine biodiversity, and analyzing samples for micro-plastic contamination.
Foster teamwork and leadership abilities through collaborative projects, group discussions, and outdoor activities such as hiking, glacial walks, exploring natural hot springs, examining unique basalt columns at Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach, visiting a range of habitats/ecosystems, climbing above and behind waterfalls and immersing in Iceland's stunning natural landscapes.
Enhance critical thinking skills by evaluating the ethical implications of scientific research and technology development in Iceland, considering issues such as resource management, conservation ethics, and indigenous rights.
Reflect on personal connections to the natural world and global environmental challenges, considering individual responsibilities and potential contributions to sustainability efforts both locally and globally.
Demonstrate effective communication skills by presenting findings from fieldwork, participating in group presentations, and writing reflective essays that integrate scientific knowledge with cultural insights gained during the expedition.
Sample Itinerary Focus Day Plan:
June 9, Arrival Day and Orientation: our team will welcome your group at the airport and then help everyone settle into the research base in the Reykjanes. After some orientation and a safety briefing, we will head into Reykjavik for some more orientation and practice with navigation and cultural immersion. Today is the perfect balance of briefings and preparation for the week, exploration of the city, introduction to Icelandic culture and adjustment to the new time zone.
June 10, Marine Life: today’s deep dive takes us into the complex marine habitats of Iceland. We will learn about marine ecosystems, explore the local tide pools and analyze water samples for micro-plastics. The group will have the opportunity to learn about local and global impacts, explore local research taking place in the region and brainstorm the efficacy of various conservation and sustainability techniques.
June 11, Geography and GIS: hiking the Icelandic highlands provides students the opportunity to learn about the incredible geography surrounding them and take a closer look at Icelandic flora and fauna using various species identifying techniques. Students will also utilize GPS units and learn about GIS while hiking the trails of southwest Iceland. Note: a variety of hiking options are available depending on student/staff abilities.
June 12, Glaciers, Waterfalls, Reynisfjara and South Shore Exploration: students will take part in a focused lesson on glaciology today and learn about the recent extinction of Iceland’s Okjojull Glacier in 2019. We will then head out on a full day’s adventure along the south shore visiting several wateralls, Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach and take part in a glacial walk on Sólheimajökull Glacier. The opportunities to study local bird species (including puffins), basalt columns and geology, the science and impacts behind the Eyjafjallajökull eruption of 2010 are endless.
June 13, Volcanos and Tectonic Plates: today we will visit Thingvellir National Park, the most visited national park in Iceland as it is the site where the two continents are splitting apart. We will enjoy a private tour from a local historian and geologist, walk the historic sites where the government of Iceland was established, dive into plate tectonics and identify the geologic history proudly on display in the dramatic rock features overhead. Following our visit to Thingvellir, we will complete the Golden Circle with visits at Gullfoss Waterfall and Kerid Crater. Gullfoss Waterfall has an interesting history whereby locals fought to keep this region free of hydroelectric power plants and dams. Students will have the opportunity to explore the dynamic ethics of environmental topics comparing subjective and objective arguments.
June 14, Geology and Hot Springs: today’s focus is on the hot springs, hot pots, geothermal landscapes and natural pools of the Reykjanes and southern Iceland. We will focus on the chemistry of the local geology and dive into the different colorful clues of the landscapes. Students will have the opportunity to hike to a natural hot spring river and if time allows, visit a local bakery that utilizes the hot steam to bake bread.
June 15, Renewable Energy: students will do a deep dive into Iceland’s incredible access to renewable energy sources. We will visit both a hydroelectric and geothermal power plant to meet with the experts, explore their science and learning centers and analyze the cultural, economic and environmental impacts.
June 16, Departure Day: depending on flight times, a variety of activities (hiking, city exploration, museum visits, university tours, botanical gardens, community pools, etc.) can be utilized today prior to the group’s departure.
Additional Activity and Location Options:
Skogafoss: one of Iceland’s biggest and most beautiful waterfalls found among the cliffs of the southern coastline. Climb the stairs to the very top for a bird’s eye view of the southern coast or enjoy the waterfall’s spray from the base as we utilize the opportunity to study the migrating bird species.
Volcanoes: are found all throughout Iceland and have been erupting regularly in recent years. Depending on the status and location of any eruptions, students will have the opportunity to explore the impacts of recent eruptions on the landscapes and culture of Iceland in the Reykjanes Peninsula.
Seljalandsfoss: a spectacular waterfall you can actually hike behind. It easily lends itself to dramatic pictures. Make sure to bring a rain jacket! It is one of Iceland’s most visited and photographed waterfalls. It is found along the base of the infamous volcano, Eyjafjallajökull, which kept all flights aground in 2010 and provides the perfect backdrop for a discussion on volcanology.
Turf Houses: traditional turf houses made of mud and stone are scattered around the coastline and countryside. We will explore turf homes and experience what life was all about in traditional Iceland exploring how villagers utilized the local natural resources to live in such a difficult climate zone.
Kerid Crater: located in the Grímsnes region of the Golden Circle, this dramatic crater is made up of red volcanic rock. We will hike the trail among the upper or lower rim and then take the trail to the neighboring craters as we observe the presence of various elements creating a colorful spectrum unique to this part of the island.
Geysir Hot Spring and Strokkur: this dramatic exploding geysir sits along the golden circle. You can also find vibrantly colored hot springs and boiling mud pots.
Local Museums and Botanical Gardens: connect with local experts at several museums to learn more about natural resources, flora and fauna and sustainability efforts of the arctic island nation.
Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach and Puffins: Found along the south coast of Iceland the expansive black sand beach is also the site of basalt column cliffs, caves as well as nesting puffins.
Icelandic Horses: The Icelandic horse, nearly pony size, came to Iceland along with the first settlers 1100 year ago. They are a prized and protected horse as they have been bred in isolation for the past millennium providing a rare opportunity to learn about the unique island-protected DNA.
Our Housing in Reykjavik
Depending on the group size, we typically stay at the either the International Science Research Base located in the Reykjanes peninsula or our second base closer to Selfoss. For larger groups, we may also utilize local hostels in the capital region or Selfoss to recharge every night. Dorm rooms will be shared by same gender groups. Teachers and guides will have shared private rooms with single beds separate from the students.
Program Costs: $3,400
What is included:
This fee covers all lodging, in-country transportation, all daily breakfasts/lunches/dinners, all activities and park fees, professional Global Treks guide, dedicated medical staff for the group and 24/hr support before/during and after your expedition.
What is not included:
International airfare from the U.S. to Iceland, souvenirs and travel insurance.
