Iceland’s Northern LIghts

You’re on your way to Iceland, a land and culture forged by fire and ice. Where steaming lava fields and massive glaciers sculpt mountains and valleys, leaving thundering waterfalls and plunging fjords. In this land of many natural wonders, enjoy the rare opportunity to search for the aurora borealis — one of nature’s most dazzling light displays, also known as the northern lights.

Welcome to Iceland’s capital city, Reykjavík. Make yourself comfortable at your hotel before refueling with breakfast. This afternoon, get acquainted with old town Reykjavík on a walking tour with a local guide to see the harbor, city hall, the Parliament building, and the nearby cathedral dating back to 1796. Gather with your fellow travelers at a popular restaurant for dinner featuring Icelandic cuisine. This evening, take an adventurous northern lights cruise and sail into the darkness of Faxaflói Bay in search of the aurora borealis. (B, D)

Travel the Golden Circle this morning to experience natural wonders, including the explosive Geysir thermal area and the double-cascade Gullfoss waterfall. You’ll also experience the famous Thingvellir National Park, where you’ll stand upon the crest of the Mid-Atlantic Ridge. In the afternoon, stop at the Lava Exhibition Center and delve into Iceland’s past and present volcanic eruptions. Afterward, witness Seljalandsfoss, a rushing waterfall where you may walk behind the water for unique views from the inside out before continuing onto Vík. Drive, or venture on foot, into the stillness of rural Iceland in search of the northern lights. You’ll enjoy three nights of searching to increase your likelihood of catching a glimpse of these elusive lights. (B, D)

Begin your day with journey to Reynisfjara, a volcanic sandy beach surrounded by basalt formations and home to thousands of nesting sea birds. Look out over the natural rock formations at Dyrhólaey, a small peninsula of volcanic origin towering over the ocean. Next, visit the Skógar Museum and discover its turf-built homes and artifacts. Afterward, stand in awe before the impressive Skógafoss waterfall, one of Iceland’s biggest and most beautiful waterfalls. Cap off your day with a visit to Sólheimajökull Glacier, Iceland’s fourth largest glacier. After dinner, gaze at the sky in search of the northern lights. (B, D)

This morning, travel through the area of Vatnäjökul National Park to Jökulsárlón glacial lagoon and marvel at all the floating icebergs. Explore this extraordinary landscape as you search for seals swimming in cold waters. Enjoy even more breathtaking scenery on your way back to Vik. After dinner, continue searching for the northern lights dancing across the night sky.(B, D)

Drive along the south shore towards the Reykjanes Peninsula. Known for its rugged landscape, lava fields, and numerous hot springs, the peninsula is home to the Blue Lagoon. Take a dip in the warm, mineral-rich waters of the geothermal pool, located in the heart of a dramatic lava field. Return to Reykjavík for your farewell dinner and overnight stay. (B, D)

Depart for home with many incredible memories of your time in Iceland. (B)