Iceland Circle & Westfjords Discovery

Friday. Welcome to Reykjavik! On arrival at Keflavík International Airport, you'll be transferred by Flybus shuttle to our accommodation. The remainder of the day is at leisure.

Reykjavik - Grabrok - Akureyri. This morning we meet our tour guide and depart from the hotel. We travel west, passing the town of Borgarnes and stopping to climb the Grabrok volcano crater. Further north we stop at the turf church of Vídimyri which has been extensively restored to its original form and is widely considered one of the purest and most beautiful examples of traditional Icelandic architecture.

We continue along scenic fjord landscapes and over several mountain passes until we reach Akureyri, the capital of North Iceland.

Akureyri - Lake Myvatn. This morning we explore Akureyri, a charming town of 17,000 inhabitants and enjoy the panoramic view over Eyjafjördur fjord. From April-October optional whale watching tours are available from 09:00-12:00.

In the afternoon we visit spectacular Godafoss, the waterfalls of the Gods and Lake Myvatn, which is known for its geological wonders and active bird life during summer. Next stop is the bizarre lava formations at Kalfastrond to walk around the many pseudo craters. End an exciting day with a relaxing soak at Myvatn Nature Baths - the waters here contain a unique blend of minerals, silicates and geothermal micro-organisms. The warm soothing waters benefit both skin and spirit alike.

Lake Myvatn - Namaskard - Egilsstadir. In the morning we explore the otherworldly lava labyrinth at Dimmuborgir, “the dark castles”. Afterwards we visit the hot spring area of Namaskard with bubbling mud pools and steaming solfataras. Continue through the uninhabited highlands and moonlike surrounding to East Iceland. The day ends with a visit to the majestic Dettifoss waterfall, adding another layer of awe to our adventure.

Egilsstadir - Vatnajokull - Skatafell. Today we admire the dramatic fjord landscape, twisty roads and tiny fishing villages in the East Fjords. En route we visit an interesting stone and mineral collection. This afternoon we admire Vatnajokull, Europe’s biggest glacier and take a boat tour on ethereal Jokulsarlon glacial lagoon, gliding amidst the shimmering icebergs and tranquil waters. Our adventure continues to the beautiful Diamond Beach, where we see the glittering ice sculptures adorning the black volcanic sands.

Skatafell - Reynisfjara - Skogafoss - Seljalandsfoss - Hella. We journey along the southern part of the Vatnajökull glacier this morning and take in the sights of Europe’s second-largest national park, boasting Iceland’s tallest mountains, alpine landscapes, and the continent’s largest glacier.

In the afternoon, a beautiful drive with many natural wonders awaits us as we head across the Eldhraun lava field, cross the sandy desert of the south coast, overlooked by mountainous cliffs, glaciers and waterfalls. Stroll along the black lava beach of Reynisfjara near Vík. In the small village of Skogar, there is Skogafoss waterfall which is 60 meters high and is one of the most impressive waterfalls in the country. Iceland’s past comes alive at one of Iceland’s finest museums, the Skógar folk museum with its turf houses assemblage of traditions of territorial relics on display. Continue to the high but narrow Seljalandsfoss waterfall which plunges over the mountain.

Hella - Golden Circle - Reykjavik. Today we explore Iceland's famed Golden Circle. We begin the day at Fridheimar learning about the special qualities and history of the Icelandic horse and visit a geothermal greenhouse. Later on we visit the Geysir geothermal fields to see a variety of hot springs, bubbling pools and the mighty Strokkur, "the Churn", which erupts at 5-10 minute intervals. We continue to Gullfoss, “the golden falls“, which is a double waterfall that tumbles 34 meters into the Hvítá River. Continue inland to Thingvellir National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site. As we return to Reykjavík, we take you for a short city tour of the highlights of the world's northern-most capital. We then depart for three days in Rekjavik until meeting the next group.

Explore Reykjavík at leisure over the next three days. Stroll along charming streets, browse the local boutiques and museums, or unwind in one of the city's inviting cafes.

This afternoon join a Reykjavík Food Lovers Tour. Embark on a culinary adventure through the city's finest restaurants, enjoying traditional Icelandic dishes while delving into the local food culture. This tour offers a delectable and informative experience, shedding light on Iceland's rich culinary heritage.

Begin the day with leisurely exploration, or join one of the optional tours. There's the choice of an ATV adventure, or a horseback riding excursion. The ATV tour navigates through volcanic fields and lush valleys. Alternatively, follow scenic trails on horseback, under the guidance of experienced locals.

After a day of activity, unwind in the Sky Lagoon and soak in geothermal waters, paired with a complimentary refreshing drink. This tranquil oceanside lagoon is home to stunning views, and it's natural forces rejuvenate the body and soul. This offers the perfect chance to relax and recharge before continuing our adventure.

This morning is at leisure again, before heading out on an Atlantic Ocean wildlife adventure with a Whale Watching tour from the city. Keep an eye out for Iceland's diverse bird and sea species - including minke whales, humpback whales, harbour porpoises, and white-beaked dolphins.

Reykjavik - Grabrok - Eiríksstadir - Thingmannaá Waterfall - Patreksfjordur. We'll kickstart the day by meeting our tour guide bright and early, setting off on a journey towards the West. The first captivating stop awaits at Grábrók, a 3,400-year-old volcanic crater boasting a breathtaking 360-degree panoramic view of the entire valley.

Continuing the adventure, we'll reach Eiríksstadir, once the dwelling place of Viking explorers Eirik the Red and his son Leif the Lucky. Here, within a replica of their longhouse and immersive living museum, we'll delve deep into Viking life, Icelandic history, and folklore.

The next destination reveals the enchanting Thingmannaá Waterfall, the first among the many charming waterfalls dotting the Westfjords.

Finally, we'll settle in the quaint fishing village of Patreksfjördur. Overlooking serene fjords and the Greenland Sea, this is where we will stay for the next two nights.

Patreksfjordur - Raudasandur - Latrabjarg - Patreksfjordur. The day begins with a visit to Raudasandur, one of Iceland's most captivating beaches. Stretching 10 kilometers, its iridescent red sands blend seamlessly with turquoise waters, creating a picturesque landscape. Our journey then leads to the Hnjotur Folk Museum, offering insight into daily life in the Westfjords and showcasing Iceland's agricultural and seafaring history.

Continuing on, we reach Latrabjarg, Europe's towering seabird cliffs and Iceland's westernmost point. Here, an uninterrupted view of the North Atlantic unfolds. Here, catch glimpses of vibrant bird colonies, including puffins, razorbills, and guillemots. Last on the agenda is a visit the shipwreck Gardar, Iceland's oldest steel ship. As the day winds down, the journey leads us back to Patreksfjordur.

Patreksfjordur - Dynjandi - Fleteyri - Isafjordur. Today we visit the Dynjandi waterfall, celebrated as one of Iceland's most magnificent. Its tiered structure creates a mesmerizing array of small cascades. Continuing along the coastline and fjords, our journey leads us to the pier of Onundarfjordur, extending gracefully into the water from a stunning golden beach. Next stop is the village of Flateyri, where we visit the historic Gamla bokabudin, "The Old Bookstore," operating since 1914. At this charming store, enjoy browsing for unique souvenirs that showcase traditional Icelandic design. Delving deeper into Flateyri's history, we'll learn about the devastating 1995 avalanche, and venture to the avalanche protection fences built to safeguard locals from future tragedies.

We end the day in Isafjordur, the largest town in the Westfjords.

Isafjordur - Sudureyri - Isafjordur. The morning unfolds with a trip to Bolafjall, a soaring 640-meter-high mountain adorned with a steel viewing platform extending over the cliff's edge, offering views of the sea and nearby fjords.

The adventure then leads to the Osvor Maritime Museum, where a restored fishing hut invites visitors to step into the past, delving into the 19th-century life of rowboat fishing.

Following this experience, the journey continues to Sudureyri, where a walk through the village offers insights into Iceland's rich fishing heritage. Here, you can opt to try seafood sourced from local producers.

In the afternoon, enjoy leisure time in Ísafjördur, to explore at your own pace or opt for an activity. There's the choice of an ATV tour, or set off on a trip to the captivating island of Vigure, famous for its rich wildlife, including puffins, Arctic terns, eiders, guillemots and more,

Ísafjordur - Holmavík - Breidafjordur. Today's journey begins along the breathtaking fjords of Ísafjardardjúp. Enjoy awe-inspiring vistas with the possibility of encountering majestic whales along the way.

A stop at the Saltverk factory offers insights into salt manufacturing powered entirely by geothermal energy—an example of Iceland's sustainable practices.

Continuing the adventure, we'll head to the picturesque village of Holmavík, to explore the Museum of Icelandic Sorcery and Witchcraft. Here, captivating tales of Iceland's mystical history unfold. Delve into folklore and explore an array of artifacts.

The day concludes in West Iceland, in a tranquil location nestled near the remarkable Breidafjordur Bay.

Breidafjordur - Reykjavik. We travel back to Reykjavík today, with a few stops along the way. Our first stop is at Hraunfossar, the mesmerizing "lava waterfalls," where glacial waters weave through lava rocks, creating a spectacular natural display. Continuing on, a visit to a local horse farm awaits, granting us the opportunity to encounter the beloved Icelandic horses, known for their fluffiness and amiable nature.

In the afternoon, we'll return to Reykjavík and explore the capital, delving into its rich history and visiting iconic landmarks that showcase Reykjavík’s unique charm.

Our Icelandic adventure comes to an end after breakfast today. Take the Flybus shuttle from your accommodation in Reykjavik to Keflavik airport.