Reykjavik, Iceland
Reykjavik, the golden circle & southern Iceland
Come join us as we explore Iceland's diverse and spectacular natural environment while celebrating Nordic culture. In this expedition, we will be exploring the most stunning and awe-inspiring landscapes along Iceland’s rugged southern coast along with the infamous Golden Circle while comfortably based out of the northernmost capital of the world- Reykjavik. (And in Iceland where the sun doesn’t set in the summer, there’s quite a bit to enjoy in a day!) On the Golden Circle we will experience Iceland’s geological wonders including the Geysir Geothermal Area, the infamous Gullfoss Waterfall and Þingvellir National Park — where two continents are actively splitting apart. Next, we traverse along the southern coast bearing witness to glaciers, volcanoes, volcanic islands, geothermal hotspots including a thermal river you can soak in, glacial rivers, green pastures, marshes, lakes, undisturbed highlands, basalt columns, puffins, Icelandic horses, and black sand beaches. Living in Reykjavik allows us to recharge in the community hot springs each day where the locals all congregate to share local news and enjoy a rejuvenating soak in the natural hot spring water. We will enjoy daily opportunities to stroll through the many cultural shops, cafes, museums, and embrace all that it means to be Icelandic. We return each evening to relax in our very own sun room of our oceanfront home with our own private hot tub and steam room.
Iceland Activities and Places We Will Visit
Reykjadalur Valley: this breathtaking valley is a highlight of southern Iceland. The valley has numerous steam vents, boiling mud pots, a geothermal river, breathtaking views, and numerous back county trails. Enjoy bathing in the Reykjadalur thermal river. The further you swim up the warmer it gets!
Thingvellir National Park: the most visited national park in Iceland as it is the site where the two continents are splitting apart and is also the backdrop for scenes from Game of Thrones. We will enjoy a private tour from a local historian and walk the historic sites where the government of Iceland was established.
Skogafoss: is 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.
Seljalandsfoss: is a spectacular waterfall you can actually hike behind. It easily lends itself to dramatic pictures. Just 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.
Reykjavik: the cultural and economic hub of Iceland is located in the southwestern peninsula of the island. We will enjoy plenty of time here with access to local businesses, restaurants, religious places of worship, cultural centers, and seasonal festivals.
Turf Houses: traditional turf houses made of wood, stone are scattered around the coastline and countryside. We will explore the turf homes and experience what life was all about in traditional Iceland.
Kerid Crater: Found in the Grímsnes region of the Golden Circle this dramatic crater is made up of red volcanic rock. Enjoy hiking the trail among the upper or lower rim or take the trail to the neighboring craters.
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.
Gulfoss: The largest waterfall in Europe (by volume) the force, sound and mist of Gulfoss is mesmerizing. It also makes a perfect stop while exploring the Golden Circle.
The Blue Lagoon: Known everywhere around the world, the Blue Lagoon Spa finds itself atop most people’s bucket lists. Enjoy hours soaking in the geothermal waters or choose to immerse yourself in a floating in-water massage!
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.
Sólheimajökull Glacier: Take a short hike up to the base of one of Iceland’s most dramatic glaciers. Experience the immense size of this glacier and feel the cool breeze coming off the glacial river.
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.
Reykjavik’s Community Thermal Pools: Reykjavik has many community pools to enjoy that have numerous hot tubs are varying temperatures, lap pools, and ice baths.
Our Housing in Reykjavik
The group will enjoy staying in a hostel in the capital of Reykjavik 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.
travel Costs: $2,550
What is included:
This fee covers all lodging, in-country transportation, daily breakfasts/lunches/dinners, all activities and park fees, an experienced and energetic Global Treks guide, 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.
Teachers:
One teacher goes free for every 10 students. Alternatively, that discount can be applied to the groups total or offered as a scholarship to an underrepresented student.
