Day 1 — Depart the U.S.
Depart the U.S. and arrive in Reykjavik the next day.
Day 2 — Reykjavik, Iceland
Your tour begins in Reykjavik, where you embark on a fascinating city tour that highlights such important sites as the 19th-century Parliament House, Austurvollur Square, the Hofoi House, and Tjornin Lake. Visit the Arbaer Open-Air Folk Museum, which comprises buildings and artifacts from different periods, including an 18th-century turf chapel. Gather this evening for a welcome reception and dinner. (D)
Day 3 — Reykjanes Peninsula
During a full-day excursion, explore the scenic landscape of the Reykjanes Peninsula, stopping at Bessastadir, an ancient Viking site that is now the official residence of the current president. Continue to Lake Kleifarvatn to see an amazing display of geothermal activity, including steaming fumaroles, hot springs, and mud pots. Conclude your day at the famous Blue Lagoon, a natural geothermal pool in the middle of a large, dramatic lava field. Enjoy time to relax and take a swim in this pleasantly warm, mineral-rich water. (B)
Day 4 — Golden Circle and Vik
Today, travel to the "Golden Circle" which encompasses many of Iceland s most renowned natural scenic wonders. Thingvellir National Park is Iceland s most historic site and one of its most beautiful places. The oldest existing parliament in the world first met here in A.D. 930. The park also features the geologically significant Mid-Atlantic Ridge, where the American and European tectonic plates meet. Continue to the amazing hot springs of Geysir, then marvel at one of the island s greatest natural wonders, the two-tiered Gullfoss Waterfall. Continue south to the town of Vik. Vik is a small town set along Iceland s dramatic southern coast where black sand beaches, crashing waves, and towering figures of black rock form an unforgettable sight. (B,D)
Day 5 — Vik and Skaftafell National Park
Begin the day at Skaftafell National Park, a beautiful green oasis located near the highest peak in Iceland. Later, an unforgettable boat trip amid graceful floating icebergs serves as an introduction to Iceland s dramatic glaciers and the perfect opportunity to see many species of birds. (B,D)
Day 6 — Vik and Reykjavik
On your trip back to Reykjavik, travel across fertile pastures, sand flats, and glacial rivers en route to Skogar, a small settlement located next to a magnificent waterfall. Visit Skogar s Folk Museum, which houses an interesting collection of Icelandic artifacts. Next, stop at a traditional Icelandic horse farm. Learn how Iceland s horses are directly descended from those brought by the Vikings and how Iceland is preserving this heritage. (B)
Day 7 — Reykjavik
Today is at leisure to explore the capital city of Iceland with its many art galleries and museums. You may choose to join an optional whale watching or "Super Jeep" glacier excursion. During the "Super Jeep" excursion you will travel on top of Iceland s Langjökull Glacier. Gather for a farewell dinner this evening. (B,D)
Day 8 — Reykjavik and Tour Concludes
Transfer to the airport for flights back to the U.S. (B)
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