Gurgling hot springs, cascading waterfalls, extinct (and live) volcanoes and Europe’s biggest glacier – this is Iceland! On a six-day adventure, you’ll discover the raw natural beauty of this Nordic wonderland, getting up close to epic glacial sheaths, feeling the icy spray of the Gullfoss Waterfall and becoming acquainted with the culture and cuisine of an Arctic island outpost unlike any other. Spend the days hiking, waterfall chasing and soaking in the gorgeous landscapes, and spend the nights searching for the Northern Lights.
- Day 1 - Reykjavik
Hallo! Welcome to Iceland. Your adventure begins in the world's northernmost capital of Reykjavik, just below the Arctic Circle. Surrounded by volcanic peaks and crystalline ocean, the city boasts a vibrant arts and nightlife scene. Meet your travel group and leader and a welcome meeting at 6 pm tonight. If you arrive early, maybe spend the afternoon exploring downtown, home to boutiques, cosy cafes and art galleries. Maybe visit the National Museum to learn about the history of Iceland from the 9th century, when the first Vikings from mainland Scandinavia arrived and settled. Tonight, maybe head out to dinner and get to know your new fellow travellers.
Special information: It’s very important that you attend the welcome meeting as we will be collecting insurance and emergency contact details at this time. If you are going to be late, please let your travel agent or hotel reception know. Ask reception or look for a note in the lobby for more information on where the meeting will take place.
- Day 2 - Golden Circle / Hvolsvollur Area
Depart Reykjavik early this morning and follow the route of the Golden Circle. Visit Pingvellir National Park – the site of Iceland's first parliament, founded in AD 930 and a geological wonder, where the American and Eurasian tectonic plates are pulling apart. If you notice a big ridge of water in the landscape, you’re probably looking at the Silfra fissure! Next, head to Iceland's Geysir geothermal area, where you'll see the Strokkur geyser shoot water 20 m into the air. Witness the sheer power of the Gullfoss Waterfall (also known as Golden Falls) before continuing to the Hvolsvollur Valley, where you'll spend the night on an Icelandic farm that’s been converted into a guesthouse. Far away from the city lights, the guesthouse is an ideal base to try and spot the Northern Lights. If the skies are clear tonight, why not take a stroll out into the snow and look skywards for the dancing green lights.
Special information: Your travel time today will be approximately 4 hours.
While there is a good chance of seeing the lights of the aurora this far north, there is no guarantee, as they are a natural phenomenon and weather conditions and overall activity can affect visibility. There are several apps you can download that show current and forecast activity of the aurora around the world. Some of these apps have a function that allow you to be alerted at night when the aurora becomes visible in your current location. Remember to pack warm clothes, as temperatures can drop to below –5°C.
- Day 3 - South Coast / Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon
Start the day with a trip to Iceland’s biggest waterfall – Skogafoss. Walk up to the scenic viewpoint and on a sunny day you should be able to sport a rainbow or two in the spray. Continue along Iceland’s South Short to discover the sea stacks rock formations of Reynisdrangar, the promontory of Dyrholaey, the rugged volcanic sea stacks and the seemingly endless black sand beach of Reynisfjara. This afternoon, visit the Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon – a sea of floating iceberg where blues contrast with the sand’s charcoal. Stop for the night at a farm stay on the South Coast. Weather permitting, there will be another opportunity to step outside and witness the natural wonders of the Northern Lights tonight.
Special information: Your travel time today will be approximately 5 hours.
- Day 4 - Vatnajokull Glacier / Vik
Hike Europe’s biggest ice cap, Vatnajokull, which has around 30 glaciers flowing out of it. As you walk, see firsthand the glacial movements and formation changes due to the dramatic effects of climate change on the retreating glacier. Alternatively, you can walk the glacier’s tongue or return to the glacial lagoon at Jokulsarlon or Fjallsarlon. If you would prefer a more relaxing morning, you can explore the farm stay and head to the Thorbergur Centre. Later, journey to the black sand town of Vik and see the most southerly mainland settlement with the sea on one side and high cliffs on the other.
Special information: Your travel time today will be approximately 4 hours.
Today's glacier walk, it's length and the distance covered is dependent on weather conditions. In order to be able to fit the ice crampons, you’ll need to wear ankle high shoes.
- Day 5 - Reykjavik
Head to the Seljalandsfoss Waterfall, then begin your journey back to Reykjavik. When you arrive in t he city, take a short walk to the old harbour, the city centre and the Hallgrimskirkja Church. After, maybe browse some of the city's great art galleries or head for a soak in the geothermal waters of the famous Blue Lagoon. If you haven't seen the Northern Lights yet, you could head out of town to chase them again this evening. Tonight, maybe gather your fellow adventurers and celebrate the end of the adventure with dinner.
Special information: Your travel time today will be approximately 3 hours.
Arrival back into Reykjavik is usually at around 3 pm. Due to frequent delays during winter, it’s recommended you do not book any time slots for the Blue Lagoon before 6 pm (or preferably tomorrow). Please also keep in mind that the Blue Lagoon has limited availability, and during peak times tickets sell out far in advance. We recommend you book your time slot online in advance if you would like to be sure of a certain time/date for your visit: bluelagoon.com.
- Day 6 - Reykjavik
There are no further activities scheduled after breakfast today and it’s time to say 'sjaumst'. If you'd like to extend your stay and book yourself on a Silfra Fissure snorkelling adventure, just get in touch with your booking agent ahead of time.
0800 110 108
info@mondotravel.co.nz
