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Day 1 Reykjavik

Welcome to Reykjavik, the world’s most northerly capital and the starting point of your Icelandic adventure. Enjoy a complimentary airport arrival transfer to your hotel and settle in before meeting your tour leader and fellow travellers for a 6pm welcome meeting. If you arrive early, this little city punches above its weight when it comes to things to see and do. Perhaps take a trip to the National Museum, where you can see its permanent exhibition depicting the history of Iceland, or hit the city’s brightly coloured streets to explore an exciting display of shops and cafes. If you’re interested in visiting the Blue Lagoon at the end of the trip and haven’t already booked yourself a slot, it’s best to mention this to your local leader at the welcome meeting so they can attempt to arrange tickets. After the welcome meeting, celebrate the start of a new adventure with an included dinner with your group, where your tour leader will introduce you to the best of Icelandic cuisine.

Day 2 Reykjavik / Golden Circle / Fludir

This morning head to the geologically and historically important Thingvellir National Park. To those not in the know, the national park may seem to simply be a stunning natural wonder, but your leader will be on hand to provide historical context and explain that this was the original site of Iceland’s old parliament from AD 930. Visit the spouting hot springs of Geysir and Strokkur before driving to the spectacular Gullfoss, Iceland’s largest waterfall. After your visit, head to your base for the evening in Fludir. This afternoon you may like to pay a visit to the Secret Lagoon, a natural geothermal pool warmed by the nearby hot springs – this is a classic Icelandic experience. This evening will be a good opportunity to turn your head to the skies in search of the Northern Lights.

Day 3 Skaftafell National Park / Jokulsarlon

Begin the day by travelling through the lava fields of the Laki volcanic eruption in 1783, as your leader explains how this devasting event shaped not only Iceland’s landscape, but also its culture. Next is Skaftafell National Park where you’ll come face-to-face with Vatnajokull, Europe's biggest glacier. Carry on to some of the country’s most impressive, uninterrupted scenery and wander past the enormous basalt sea stacks at Reynisdrangar. Later discover the Fosshotel Glacier Lagoon, your feature stay for this evening. This modern and contemporary hotel carefully considers its surroundings as spacious rooms with huge windows show off views of the mountains and sea, while stylish interiors reflect the colours of the world outside. This evening you’ll enjoy an included dinner at the excellent on-site restaurant serving up a creative list of dishes made with local Icelandic produce.

Day 4 Jokulsarlon / South Coast / Reykjavik

Start the day with a short drive on to Jokulsarlon, also known as the Glacier Lagoon. Take a walk around this astounding glacial lake and learn a little more about its history. Continue through the beautiful scenery of Iceland’s South Shore, marvel at the colours of the glaciers spilling down the mountains in the distance and admire the spectacular Skogafoss, a waterfall on the Skoga River. At 60 metres high and 25 metres wide, it's one of the largest and most impressive waterfalls in Iceland. The otherworldly topography you see today is bound to inspire questions, and your leader will be on hand to explain how these geographical wonders came to be. Continue to Seljalandsfoss waterfall, where you can walk right behind the stream of rushing water to see it from another angle. Next, return to Reykjavik and enjoy a free evening. Perhaps head to the Old Harbour to try the famous lobster soup, or if you’re feeling brave, the infamous fermented shark washed down with a shot of Brennivin (Icelandic Schnapps).

Day 5 Borgarfjordur / Snaefellnes Peninsula

After breakfast, see Reykjavik’s through the eyes of a local on a tour of the city with your leader. Learn the history of the Old Harbour and pass through the city centre. Reykjavik celebrates its uniqueness with stand-out pieces of architecture, which you’ll witness first-hand during visits to the Hallgrimskirkja church and the dome-shaped Pearl. Then head to the remote and geographically fascinating Snaefellsnes Peninsula, your home for the next two nights. On your way visit the Borgarfjordur area and be amazed by the stunning waterfalls of Hraunfossar and Barnafossar, then continue to Deildartunguhver, Europe’s most powerful hot spring. Reap the benefits of your surroundings during a relaxing dip in the Krauma thermal pools, where waters from the hot spring mix with glacial waters to create the perfect bathing temperature. This evening you’ll enjoy a comforting dinner at your accommodation before looking to the skies in search of dancing lights.

Day 6 Snaefellsnes Peninsula

Today you will explore the Snaefellsnes Peninsula, beginning with the Snaefellsjokull glacier, an icecap that covers a dormant volcano. Travel to the small fishing village of Arnarstapi, where a short stroll along the coastal cliffs will reveal rich birdlife. Stop by Djupalonssandur, a basaltic pebble beach framed by strange lava formations, then visit the charming village of Grundarfjordur, famous for its million-dollar views of Mt Kirkjufell. Travel to the horse farm of Lysuholl where a local will welcome you in for a delicious home-made dinner. Head back to your accommodation, and depending on the weather, rug up in warm clothing and head out in search of the northern lights.

Day 7 Reykjavik

Today you will return to Reykjavik. On the drive, your leader may share some stories of Norse mythology, so keep an eye out for elves and fairies along the way. Iceland's capital has an eclectic art and music scene, and this afternoon you may like to browse some of the city's excellent art galleries and museums. If you feel like something more active, you can take a ride on an Icelandic horse, or see killer whales just offshore on a whale watching expedition. Alternatively, if you are after another look at the Northern Lights, you can head out of town to chase them again this evening. Ask your leader for more information on these activities. Tonight you may wish to join your group for a final dinner at one of the city’s great restaurants.

Day 8 Reykjavik

Your Icelandic journey comes to an end after breakfast this morning. Those looking to extend their stay can arrange additional nights' accommodation at the time of booking the trip (subject to availability).