Compare Scenic Trails of Iceland by Nordika Travel vs Natural Wonders of Iceland - Classic Group by Insight Vacations

Day 1: Arrival

Accommodation: Reykjavík

Start your Iceland experience with an overnight stay in Reykjavík. (Airport transfer not included)

Day 2: Reykjavík – Hvalfjörður - Borgarfjörður

Meals: Dinner

Accommodation: Borgarfjordur area

Tallest Waterfall – Elfin Folklore – Ancient Crater

We begin the day with a short orientation tour of Reykjavik. We drive along the scenic coastline of Hvalfjordur Fjord, one of the longest and deepest fjords in Iceland, on our way to Glymur, Iceland's highest waterfall, which descends gracefully in streaming ribbons down a 200-metre (658 ft) drop into a massive canyon adorned in lush, green moss. Both the fjord and the waterfall are linked to a local legend about a mythical whale that swam up the waterfall into the lake at the top where, eerily enough, whale bones have been found.

We head through Borgarfjordur Valley to our first stop at Glanni waterfall, rumored to be a home of elves and trolls, before enjoying a short hike to 3,500 year-old Grabrok Crater, with remarkable views over the moss-covered lava fields.

Day 3: Reykir - Hofsós – Siglufjörður

Accommodation: Siglufjörður

Viking Folklore – Natural Geothermal Pool - Seaside Swimming Pool

Continuing our journey we cross Holtavörðuheiði plateau, the gateway between North and South, and eventually reach the Reykir geothermal area. Here we find Grettislaug, a pool built over a natural hot spring that is named after Grettir the Strong, one of Iceland’s most beloved Vikings. We continue to the charming village of Hofsós and take a short stroll down to Staðarbjargarvík inlet to admire the group of basalt columns located right at sea level. Then we visit the stunning geothermal swimming pool in the village of Hofsós. The pool is perched on the edge of the seashore, creating an optical illusion, as the pool and ocean appear to merge. We will have the opportunity to bathe in the stunning pool before heading to our accommodation.

Day 4: Siglufjörður- Whale Watching

Accommodation: Siglufjörður

Arctic Whale Watching – Award Winning Herring Era Museum – Remote Mountain Hiking

Today we'll enjoy a brisk sail on the Arctic Ocean aboard a whale-watching vessel from Dalvík village. In these pristine, icy waters we have an exceptionally good chance (98%) of encountering marine-life such as the great Humpback whale, white-beaked dolphins, minke whales, small harbor porpoises and if we are very lucky the majestic Blue Whale. To add to the adventure, we try our hand at sea angling and the freshly caught fish from Icelandic waters is grilled upon arrival in Dalvík for you to taste.

Also on today's agenda is a visit the award winning Herring Era Museum, where a 1950s harbor atmosphere is brought to life, and a nature hike over Siglufjarðarskarð, the old riding trail between Siglufjörður and the Fljót district.

The Siglufjarðarskarð mountain pass is 630 meters (2,068 ft) above sea level and is very rarely used so we will enjoy the sense of discovery in this uncrowded corner of the world, accompanied by a local mountain guide. Once we reach the other end of the pass we transfer back to Siglufjörður to replenish ourselves with a traditional meal of hearty Icelandic Meat Soup made from local ingredients.

Hiking time over Siglufjarðarskarð: About 3,5 hours

Day 5: Goðafoss – Hverfjall – Lake Mývatn

Meals: Dinner

Accommodation: Mývatn area

Waterfall of the Gods - Geothermal & Volcanic Activity – Outdoor Nature Spa

The day begins with epic views of picturesque Goðafoss, ‘Waterfall of the Gods’. Our journey continues with an exploration of the Lake Mývatn Nature Reserve, a geological wonderland of wildly contrasting nature. With the ominous peaks of Mt. Hverfjall and Krafla volcano as a backdrop, Lake Mývatn has a surprising serenity that is ideal for light hiking. Summertime during peak birding season is a good reason to have the binoculars on hand for the diverse species and rare sightings like the barrow’s goldeneye. Many enjoy the ominous scenery around Dimmuborgir (Dark Castles) with its rugged stacks of towering rocks.

Next we hike up to Mt. Leirhnjúkur hot spring area, which is part of the Krafla volcanic area and is teeming with ancient lava flows and fissures. Visiting Námafjall geothermal field we encounter boiling fumaroles and violently bubbling pools of mud. To enjoy the benefits of this highly active geothermal area, and to relax our muscles, a stop will be made at the Mývatn Nature Baths for an optional dip in the warm and soothing waters.

Day 6: Ásbyrgi - Jökulsárgljúfur - Dettifoss

Forested Area – Europe’s Largest National Park – Europe’s Mightiest Waterfall

We travel towards Tjörnes Peninsula where we discover the enormous horseshoe-shaped canyon of Ásbyrgi National Park that according to Norse mythology is the hoof-print left by Sleipnir, the magical eight-legged horse of the pagan god Óðin. Onwards to the entrance to Vesturdalur, Hljóðaklettar or ‘Echo Rocks’, a distinctive cluster of columnar rocks in all angles. The basalt columns in various shapes, cliffs, and honeycomb weathering create interesting acoustics and echoes, from which the cliffs derive their name.

We spend the remainder of the day exploring the lush vegetation and forested area of Jökulsárgljúfur the northeastern area of Vatnajökull National Park. Literally translated, Jökulsárgljúfur means glacial-river-canyon and it is aptly named for the country’s longest river canyon (25 kilometers / 16 miles).

The day ends with an unforgettable visit to Europe’s mightiest waterfall, Dettifoss, a thundering cascade of glacial water and mist among shattered cliffs.

Day 7: Kjölur - Hveravellir – Gullfoss – Geysir

Meals: Dinner

Accommodation: Hella area

Highland plateau – Geothermal Scenery - Waterfall Queen & Geyser King

Today we'll traverse Kjölur mountain track straight through Iceland’s uninhabited interior highlands. This unique trek through vibrant thermal areas between the Langjökull and Hofsjökull glaciers reveals Iceland’s true remoteness and nature at its rawest. This area has numerous walking paths along the way, dotted with hidden geothermal treasures and strange oases of vegetation. We’ll stop at Hveravellir, one of the most beautiful geothermal areas in the world, with a natural pool under open sky that is perfect for a relaxing break.

Upon arriving on the other side of the Kjolur highland route we’ll be at the Gullfoss and Geysir area, where we are introduced to the Queen of Icelandic waterfalls herself, Gullfoss. This majestic waterfall of sparkling mist and golden charm is situated on the Hvítá River, which is fed by Iceland’s second largest glacier, Langjökull. King of all geysers, the great Geysir resides nearby in a steamy geothermal field of bubbling mud and hot springs.

Day 8: Day In Landmannalaugar

Accommodation: Hella area

Untouched Interior – Hekla Volcano – Hot Springs

Iceland’s uninhabited interior sets a surreal stage for today's adventure. The untouched nature areas of Landmannalaugar and Fjallabak reveal geological elements in volcanic craters, multi colored Rhyolite Mountains, steaming lava fields, and the ominous Hekla volcano. There are many beautiful walking trails in the area and a crater-filled lake lush with brown trout.

We enjoy the benefits of this geothermal area with a refreshing dip in the Landmannalaugar Hot Spring, one of the less frequented but most scenic springs in Iceland.

Day 9: Þórsmörk - Seljalandsfoss – Reykjavík

Accommodation: Reykjavik

Thor’s Playground – Glacial Views – Walk Behind a Waterfall

Þórsmörk, a.k.a. Thor’s Playground, should be on every nature lover’s bucket list as this hidden valley resembling paradise is nestled between two glaciers and shielded by rivers and mountains. On our way to Þórsmörk we stop by Seljalandsfoss waterfall, where you can gain a different perspective by walking behind the curtain of cascading water. Once within the Nature Reserve, we walk along marked trails in the beautiful scenery of delicate trees and green grass surrounded by towering mountains and glacial tongues. We continue to Reykjavik.

Day 10: Departure

If your flight is in the afternoon we recommend taking the time to explore Reykjavík or to enjoy a relaxing dip in the popular Bláa Lónið (Reservation required) on your way to Keflavík airport. (Airport transfer not included)

Note: We reserve the right to alter routes without prior notice due to road conditions.

Day 1: The Smoky Bay of Reykjavík

Welcome to Iceland. On arrival at Reykjavik’s Keflavik Airport, you will be transferred to your hotel on your complimentary Insight shuttle operated by Gray Line. Join your Travel Director and travel companions at 18:15 for a Welcome Drink served with canapés.

Fosshotel Reykjavík.

Day 2: Hot Springs, Waterfalls and Vík

Join a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience, heading east to visit Iceland’s newest geothermal and electric power station at Hellisheiðavirkjun. Later, travel on to the ancient bishopric of Skalholt and see the historic church, set in a remote location amid magnificent natural scenery. Continue to the hot springs at Geysir and the mighty Gullfosswaterfalls, the Icelandic equivalent of Niagara Falls. In the afternoon, visit the majestic south coast waterfalls ofSeljalandsfoss and Skógafoss before continuing to your hotel in Vik.

Hótel Kría, Vik.

Breakfast, Dinner

Day 3: By Glaciers and Icebergs to Höfn

Travel along the southern coast of Iceland, beside the black sand beaches and basalt rock formations.Continue through the National Park at Skaftafell and see the largest glacier in Europe, Vatnajökull.Travel on to the luminous blue icebergs of Lake Jökulsárlón, the highlight of the day. This dramatic setting was featured in two James Bond films.Arrive in the small harbour town of Höfn, an active lobster fishing hub. From here, your Travel Director will lead a short orientation.Dine at your hotel's restaurant tonight and experience what the local produce has to offer.

Hótel Höfn.

Breakfast, Dinner

Day 4: Eastern Fjords to Egilsstaðir Relaxed Start

Explore yet another face of Iceland, as you drive through narrow fjords surrounded by steep cliffs and past small fishing villages. Catch a glimpse of Friar Island, once the home of Gaelic monks who settled here before the arrival of the Vikings. Continue to the lakeside town of Egilsstaðir.

Icelandair Hotel Herad, Egilsstadir.

Breakfast, Dinner

Day 5: By Desert, Lakes and Divine Waterfalls to Akureyri

Continue on to the beautiful Lake Mývatn and explore a wide spectrum of geological formations and the concentrated geothermal activity produces mud pools and spectacular coloured deposits. This afternoon is a taste of the local rúgbrauð, a sweet and dense rye bread which is buried underground and baked by the heat from nearby hot springs.After an introduction how they use the Dimmuborgir lava fields for the cooking process enjoy a sample of the delicious bread served with butter. Continue to Akureyri where you have the evening to relax or explore at your leisure. Perhaps embark on an optional whale watching experience? (available during whale season)

Icelandair Hotel Akureyri.

Breakfast

Day 6: From the Capital of the North to Borgarnes Relaxed Start

Enjoy an orientation of Akureyri, the capital of northern Iceland, first established as a trading centre in 1602. Travel past mountains, waterfalls and green coastal regions. Later, continue on to the southwest coast of Borgarnes.

Icelandair Hotel Hamar, Borganes.

Breakfast, Dinner

Day 7: Exploring Snæfellsjökull National Park

Travel along the Snæfellsnes Peninsula to Snæfellsjökull National Park, known as the Jewel of West Iceland and home to the country’s most famous volcano. See the magnificent Snæfellsjökull glacier surrounded by unspoiled natural beauty. En route, admire the impressive landscapes of Búðir, offering a mixture of sandy hills, black lava fields and a yellow beach. Next, take a stroll along the sea cliffs of Arnastapi with its unique column rock formations and take in the beautiful scenery.

Icelandair Hotel Hamar, Borganes.

Breakfast, Dinner

Day 8: Thingvellir, Blue Lagoon and on to Reykjavík

Journey south to Thingvellir. This remarkable UNESCO World Heritage Site lies on the Mid-Atlantic Ridge, where the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates meet.Explore Reykjavik with Insight Choice. Choose to visit the mineral-rich waters of the Blue Lagoon. Alternatively, discover Reykjavik's top sights on a walking tour with your Local Expert and stop along the way to sample local specialties.This evening, delight in a delicious Celebration Dinner at a local restaurant where you round off your journey through one of the world's most naturally beautiful places.

Fosshotel Reykjavík.

Breakfast, Dinner with Wine

Day 9: Farewell Reykjavík

Your Icelandic adventure comes to an end, with a transfer to Reykjavík's Keflavík Airport.

Breakfast