70% of Iceland's energy consumption is achieved through renewable energy sources. This is thanks in huge part to the Hellisheidi geothermal power plant. This morning, visit the plant and join a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience to learn about sustainable energy. In the nearby historical village of Eyrarbakki, take a fascinating storytelling walk with local educator and author Ásta.
Later, visit the ancient bishopric of Skálholt and see the historic church, then continue to the majestic Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss waterfalls. The day's exploring ends in Vik, with a brief orientation tour of the main sights. (B/D) Stay: Hótel Kría, Vik.
Today travel along the south coast of Iceland, beside black sand beaches and basalt rock formations. Cross Eldhraun, the largest lava flow to have occurred on Earth in recorded history (1783 – 1784 AD). At the Fjallsárlón glacier lagoon, learn about the effects of climate change from local guides.
Then explore the glacier with Insight Choice. Choose a glacier lagoon cruise and sail up to the icebergs. Alternatively, choose a guided lake walk with a Local Expert. At the National Park at Skaftafell, admire the largest glacier in Europe, Vatnajökull. Then travel to Diamond Beach to see the luminous blue icebergs of Jökulsárlón Glacial Lagoon. (B/D) Stay: Hótel Höfn.
Enjoy a relaxed start before embarking on a stunning scenic drive. Soak up views of the majestic coastline en route to the East Fjords, where towering mountains plunge vertically into the sea. Stop on the way in the village of Djúpivogur to see the “Eggs at Merry Bay.” This outside artwork consists of 34 huge granite eggs. Each one represents a species of nesting birds in the area. Visit Petra's Stone Garden and see Iceland's beauty showcased through a unique stone collection. The east coast of Iceland was once knowns for its mighty forests, now a fragile eco-system.
Join a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience and take part in re-forestation efforts during a visit to one of Iceland's national forest. Continue to Egilsstadir and join your Travel Director for an orientation. This evening, relax the Icelandic way in the floating geothermal pools of the Vök baths. Off the traditional tourist trail, these baths are mostly frequented by locals. (B/D) Stay: Icelandair Hotel Herad, Egilsstadir.
This morning head to Lake Mývatn, crossing the highland desert plateau Möðrudalsöræfi and colorful boiling mud pools of Námaskarð pass. Explore the wildlife-rich Lake Mývatn area. Marvel at the curious lava formations of Dimmuborgir, the pseudo craters at Skútustaðir and the Laxá salmon river.
Later taste delicious spirulina ice cream on a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience. Meet food scientist Julia, from bio-technology company Mýsköpun. Learn how she is enhancing production of a new type of spirulina algae. The algae are found in hot springs around Lake Mývatn and are said to be the most nutritious spirulina in the world. Continue to Akureyri, stopping at the mighty Goðafoss waterfall. (B) Stay: Icelandair Hotel Akureyri.
Today meet Volcanologist Helga Kristín Torfadóttir, your expert guide for your golden circle tour. A fantastic storyteller and educator, she is carving a name for herself in a traditionally male dominated field. Your day starts in Thingvellir National Park, uniquely situated between two continental plates. The park is home to the oldest ongoing parliament in the world and is a UNESCO World Heritage site.
See the famous hot springs at the Geysir Geothermal Area and the iconic Gullfoss “Golden Falls”. The spectacular two-tiered waterfall drops a total of 32 meters, while spanning the entire width of the Hvítá River. On arrival back into Reykjavik, join a special guided tour of the city. See the sights and learn about the history of the women's movement in Iceland. (B) Stay: Fosshotel Reykjavík.
Enjoy a relaxed start this morning. Then head to the Iceland Ocean Cluster in the new dynamic area of Reykjavik for a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience. Visit the food hall and fish market with a professor and learn about the history of the fishing industry in Iceland. Hear how, through research and innovation, the fish and seafood industry is becoming the most sustainable industry in the world. Taste some of the products and even uncover the secrets of fish leather!
Conclude your Iceland guided tour with an evening toast to your travels and newfound friends over a delicious Celebration Dinner. (B/DW)
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