Iceland: Hike, Bike & Kayak

Velkominn! Welcome to Reykjavik, Iceland’s colourful capital and the northernmost capital city in the world. Your adventure begins with 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. Visit Hallgrimskirkja Church for sweeping city views or stroll along the waterfront to admire the futuristic Harpa Concert Hall and the Sun Voyager sculpture. Head to the National Museum or the Settlement Exhibition and learn about Iceland’s Viking heritage or relax at Blue Lagoon’s geothermal pools. Tonight, maybe head out with your group to try some Icelandic cuisine at one of Reykjavík’s acclaimed restaurants or grab a hot dog from the iconic Baejarins Beztu.

Depart from Reykjavik to Iceland’s famous Golden Circle. Begin at Thingvellir National Park, where shifting tectonic plates and rich Viking history set the stage. Next, witness the explosive power of Strokkur Geysir and feel the mist of the mighty Gullfoss Waterfall. After, set off on the Reykjadalur thermal river hike, passing the Djupagilsfoss waterfall, hot spring pools, and many steaming vents in this geothermal landscape along the way. At the end of the hike is a boardwalk along the thermal river. Maybe take a dip in the river before continuing to your cosy cabin in Hvolsvollur for the night.

Today, you'll set off to the Westman Islands. When you arrive, pick up your bikes and cycle the island’s scenic coastal road, passing sea cliffs where puffins nest above the waves. In the town, you’ll have time to find a local cafe for lunch before continuing to Eldfell Volcano. If you like, you can hike to the summit for sweeping views over Heimaey village, the surrounding islands and the Icelandic mainland (on a clear day). Take the ferry back to Hvolsvollur, where you’ll stay for the night.

This morning, journey east to witness the massive Skogafoss Waterfall– one of the most dramatic sights in all of Iceland where you can often spot a rainbow (or two) in the spray. Stop at the Seljalandsfoss Waterfall, where you can walk behind the curtain of water for a different perspective (bring a raincoat!), then, swing by Dyrholaey to see rugged volcanic sea stacks and an endless stretch of black sand beach. Gear up for your glacier trek on Solheimajokull. After a safety briefing, you’ll strap on crampons, helmets and ice axes – then you’re off! After a short trek across rocky moraine left by the retreating glacier, you’ll step onto the ice and enter an otherworldly landscape of deep blue crevasses, ice caves and glacial waterfalls (known as moulins). Navigate around the ice while your expert guide explains glacial movement and the glacier’s formation, seeing firsthand the dramatic effects of climate change on a retreating glacier. After a big day, return to your cosy cabins in Hvolsvollur.

Set off on a hiking adventure to Nauthusagil Canyon, one of South Iceland's lesser known highlights, a moss covered narrow canyon with waterfalls. When you reach the top, maybe climb up and over the waterfall to get a view of a larger waterfall beyond. Then, head to Stori-Dimon. Here you’ll hike to the summit of this lonely mountain with panoramic views of the southern lowlands and the glacial river Markarfljot. After, travel to the sleepy fishing village of Stokkesyri, where you’ll join a guided kayak tour. Paddle through the narrow canals and out to a sea lagoon where you might see a curious seal playing in the water nearby. Later this afternoon, you’ll arrive back in Reykjavik and check into your hotel, with time to relax or explore the city. Tonight, maybe have dinner at a local restaurant and celebrate an incredible trip – your leader will always have some great recommendations.

There are no activities planned for today and you’re free to depart at any time. If you didn’t have the opportunity to see Reykjavik before your trip, consider staying an extra few days. Maybe explore Iceland’s geological marvels at the Perlan Museum or if you’re an ocean lover, the Maritime Museum. If you’re looking for more adventure, maybe head underground on the Lava Tunnel Tour. If you would like to extend your stay, just speak to your booking agent ahead of time.