Northern Lights Escape

Hallo! Welcome to Iceland. Your adventure begins in the world's northernmost capital of Reykjavik, just below the Arctic Circle. The city sees around four hours of sunlight a day in winter and 22 hours or more in summer. Surrounded by volcanic peaks and crystalline ocean, the city boasts a vibrant arts and nightlife scene. It’s recommended you arrive early and head to the National Museum, which depicts the history of Iceland from the 9th century, when the first Vikings from mainland Scandinavia arrived and settled. You could also chill with the locals at the Laugardalslaug Geothermal Pool. Tonight, maybe head out to dinner and get to know your new fellow travellers.

Depart Reykjavik early this morning and follow the route of the Golden Circle. Visit Pingvellir National Park – the site of Iceland's first parliament, founded in AD 930 and a geological wonder, where the American and Eurasian tectonic plates are pulling apart. If you notice a big ridge of water in the landscape, you’re probably looking at the Silfra fissure! Next, head to Iceland's Geysir geothermal area, where you'll see the Strokkur geyser shoot water 30 m into the air. Witness the sheer power of the Gullfoss Waterfall (also known as Golden Falls) before continuing to the Hvolsvollur Valley, where you'll spend the night on an Icelandic farm that’s been converted into a guesthouse. Far away from the city lights, the guesthouse is an ideal base to try and spot the Northern Lights. If the skies are clear tonight, why not take a stroll out into the snow and look skywards for the dancing green lights.

Start the day with a trip to the Skogafoss waterfall – one of the biggest waterfalls in Iceland, Skogafoss is 25 m wide and drops 60 m. To get close, maybe climb the long, windy set of stairs up to the scenic viewpoint. On a sunny day, you should be able to spot a rainbow or two in the spray. Continue along Iceland's South Shore to take in more of the country’s renowned natural wonders. From the stepping-stone rock formations of Reynisdrangar, the promontory of Dyrholaey, and the night black sand beach of Reynisfjara, this is one of the country's most scenic regions. This afternoon, visit the famous Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon – a sea of floating icebergs whose blue contrast with the charcoal sands of the beach. Stop for the night at a farm stay on the South Coast. Weather permitting, there will be another opportunity to step outside and witness the natural wonders of the Northern Lights tonight.

Today, go for a hike on Europe's biggest ice cap, Vatnajokull, which has around 30 glaciers flowing out of it. The glacier is retreating due to rising world temperatures, and in a few years, the glacier may be gone. Alternatively, you can just walk to the glacier's tongue or return to the glacial lagoon at Jokulsarlon or Fjallsarlon. If you would prefer a more relaxing morning, you can explore the farm stay and head to the Thorbergur Centre. Later, journey to the black sand town of Vik. With the sea on one side and high cliffs on the other, this dramatically positioned village is Iceland's most southerly mainland settlement.

Make your way to the beautiful waterfall of Seljalandsfoss, then it’s back to Reykjavik. When you arrive, take a short walk of the city, to the old harbour, the city centre and the famous Hallgrimskirkja Church. After, maybe browse some of the city's great art galleries. If you haven't seen the Northern Lights yet, you could head out of town to chase them again this evening, or head for a soak in the geothermal waters of the famous Blue Lagoon. Tonight, maybe gather your fellow adventurers and celebrate the end of the adventure with dinner.

There are no further activities scheduled after breakfast today and it’s time to say 'sjaumst'. If you'd like to extend your stay and book yourself on a Silfra Fissure snorkelling adventure, just get in touch with your booking agent ahead of time.