Iceland’s Magical 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.

Your tour opens in Reykjavík, Iceland’s capital city. Get acquainted with old town Reykjavík on a walking tour featuring 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 exhilarating northern lights cruise** and sail into the darkness of Faxaflói Bay in search of the aurora borealis. (B,D)

Travel the Golden Circle to experience renowned natural wonders, including the explosive Geysir thermal area, the double-cascade Gullfoss waterfall, and the famous Thingvellir National Park, where you’ll stand upon the crest of the MidAtlantic Ridge. Stop at the Lava Exhibition Center and delve into Iceland’s past and present volcanic eruptions. Continue to Vík. Drive out into the stillness of rural Iceland in search of the northern lights or venture out on foot. Enjoy three nights of searching to increase your likelihood of spotting the lights. (B,D)

Journey to Seljalandsfoss, one of Iceland’s most famous and unique waterfalls. Visit Skógar Museum and discover its turf-built homes and artifacts. Stand in awe before the impressive Skógafoss waterfall, one of Iceland’s tallest. Your journey continues to Reynisfjara, a volcanic sand beach surrounded by basalt formations and rich bird life. Look out over the natural rock formations at Dyrhólaey, a volcanic peninsula towering over the ocean. Get a sense of the local culture as you challenge your taste buds and sample traditional delicacies – hákarl (cured shark and brennivín (schnapps). After dinner, gaze at the sky in search of the northern lights. (B,D)

Travel to Jökulsárlón glacial lagoon, filled with floating icebergs. Explore this extraordinary landscape and search for seals swimming in cold waters. Travel to Skaftafell National Park, gateway to Vatnajökull Glacier. Vatnajökull is known for having Iceland’s highest mountains and Europe's largest ice cap. After dinner, continue searching for the northern lights dancing across the night sky. (B)

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. (B)