Iceland Beneath the Northern Lights
Overview
Itinerary
Your first glimpse of Iceland begins in Reykjavík, where colourful rooftops sit against a backdrop of mountains and sea and a creative spirit thrives. After transferring to your hotel, depending on your flight time, you'll settle in and explore the city, perhaps strolling towards its harbour or taking in its relaxed cafe culture.
In the early evening you'll meet your Travel Director and fellow travellers for a welcome reception at the hotel sharing appetisers and a drink as you hear what adventures lie ahead. You'll then have free time to sample Reykjavík's fresh seafood or its cosy local dining scene before regrouping to embark on a search for the Northern Lights. You'll head to locations with the best possible viewing conditions and learn more about the science behind this legendary natural phenomenon.
Today you'll step into the raw beauty of the Golden Circle, walking through UNESCO-listed Þingvellir National Park to stand between two continents at the Mid Atlantic Ridge. You'll see the Parliament Plains, where Iceland's early leaders gathered, feel the force of the geothermal energy at the hot springs of Geysir and visit the thundering ‘Golden Waterfall' Gullfoss. At Friðheimar greenhouse you'll discover how Icelanders use natural heat to grow fresh produce year-round before viewing Iceland's most famous crater, Kerið.
Your journey continues along the South Coast to Vík, where you can stretch your legs on the black sand beach. This afternoon, choose an Optional Experience at The Vík Lava Show to hear local folklore and watch real molten lava up close. After dinner, spend a cosy evening indoors by the fire or at the bar, or turn in early before a possible Northern Lights wake-up call. At this time of year, Icelandic hotels automatically notify guests when viewing conditions are good, even during the night. Let the hotel know if you'd prefer not to be disturbed.
Today, travelling east from Vík, you'll journey into a world shaped by fire, ice and open sky. See the moss-covered Eldhraun lava field and sweeping black sand plains of Skeiðarársandur as you make your way into UNESCO-listed Vatnajökull National Park. At Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon, watch icebergs broken from the glacier drift across bright blue water, with time for lunch overlooking this spectacle. Choose an Optional Experience by boat for an even closer look at the icebergs, then step onto one of Iceland's most striking backdrops, Diamond Beach, where pieces of glacier glitter on the shore in sharp contrast with the black volcanic sand.
Your journey continues to Skaftafell for views of glaciers and surrounding peaks before returning to Vík. Enjoy free time today to explore the town and have dinner at a restaurant of your choice.
Journey west along the South coast, where waterfalls, black sand and wide-open views frame Iceland's wild beauty. You'll feel the spray of mighty Skógafoss waterfall, then visit Seljalandsfoss waterfall, where a narrow cascade drops from rugged cliffs into the misty landscape below. You'll also see Hekla and Eyjafjallajökull in the distance, two volcanoes that reveal the island's powerful geology. Your Be My Guest experience takes place at the home of Ásta Kristrún Ragnarsdóttir at Bakkastofa Cultural Centre in historic Eyrarbakki, where you'll hear Icelandic stories, poetry and learn more about local heritage.
After tea and cake at Ásta's house, you'll visit Hellisheiði Geothermal Power Plant for your MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience, where you'll discover how natural energy is turned into everyday power. On your return to Reykjavík this evening, sample the local restaurant scene and then choose to set sail on an Optional Experience of a Northern Lights Cruise.
Dive into Culture this morning by taking a dip in the milky blue waters of the Blue Lagoon. Watch the steam rise around you from the lava fields and unwind in the lagoon's warm geothermal waters, believed to have healing powers. With an exclusive Comfort Package included, you'll also have access to a sauna, steam room, colder lagoon and mud mask, as well as a drink at the swim-up bar to complete this one-of-a-kind, uniquely Icelandic experience.
After a deeply relaxing morning, you'll return to Reykjavík for a city orientation with your Travel Director, who will bring the city's colourful streets, harbour views and local character into focus. Enjoy free time for lunch, then spend the afternoon at leisure or unwind back at your hotel.
This evening, gather with your fellow travellers at a local restaurant for a farewell dinner, sharing stories from your Icelandic adventure.
Enjoy breakfast at your hotel before checking out and saying farewell to Iceland. Your individual transfer takes you to Keflavík Airport for your onward journey.
Trip Inclusions
- Discover Reykjavík
- Visit Akranes Folk Museum, the 'Golden Circle' - Gullfoss Waterfall, Geysir Hot Spring Area and Thingvellir National Park and the geothermal Icelandic Lagoon
- View Harpa Concert Hall, Austurvöllur Square, Hallgrímskirkja Church, and Reykjanes Peninsula
- See Hvalfjörður (Whale Bay), Grundarfjörður Fishing Village, Lake Kleifarvatn and Krýsuvík
Trafalgar Difference
- Reykjavik: Discover local artists at this iconic hotel, located in the heart of the capital. Learn how spellbinding mythology and Icelandic nature inspire the art dotted throughout the hotel.
Iconic Experience
- Reykjavik: Witness one of nature's most unforgettable displays as you travel into the Icelandic night in search of the Northern Lights. You'll journey to areas with optimal viewing conditions for watching the aurora glow green, white and – if you're extra lucky – pink and violet above the dark winter plains. As the Northern Lights are a natural phenomenon, sadly, experiencing their magic on your trip isn't guaranteed. But with clear skies, a little luck and local knowledge, you may be in for a treat.
- Thingvellir National Park: In this UNESCO-listed national park you'll see first-hand how the movements of the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates have carved into the Earth's crust, and explore the Parliament Plains, where Iceland's early leaders gathered from 930 AD. The visit brings together volcanic scenery, cultural heritage and the stories that built the Icelandic nation.
- Gullfoss Falls: Marvel at the impressive beauty and magnitude of the 'Golden Waterfall' of Gullfoss, so called for the golden hue of its waters in the sunshine. You'll learn about its history, including how it was saved at the turn of the last century by the tenacity of a farmer's daughter, who threatened to throw herself into its depths if it was developed for hydroelectric power.
- Strokkur: Witness Iceland's geothermal power at Strokkur, one of the country's most active geysers. Watch as the earth bubbles, steams and suddenly erupts, sending a burst of hot water high into the air. Set in the Geysir hot spring area, this natural spectacle gives you a close-up look at the volcanic forces continually shaping Iceland's landscapes.
- Fridheimar: Discover Icelandic ingenuity at Friðheimar, a family-run greenhouse where natural geothermal heat is harnessed to grow fresh produce year-round. Learn more about sustainable energy and clever growing techniques as you warm up in the greenhouse's Mediterranean climate, and meet the elegant Icelandic horses bred on the estate.
- Vik: Journey to Iceland's most famous crater, a striking volcanic caldera filled with vivid blue-green water. Formed thousands of years ago, its steep red slopes and moss-covered edges create one of the Golden Circle's most colourful natural sights. You'll walk around the rim for wide views across the surrounding landscape.
- Journey into your second UNESCO-listed national park: Vatnajökull, home to Europe's largest glacier and some of Iceland's most powerful scenery. See landscapes sculpted by ice, volcanic fire and shifting weather, from glacier tongues to sweeping black sand plains.
- Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon: Watch icebergs drift across the bright blue waters of Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon, one of Iceland's most unforgettable natural sights. Broken from the nearby glacier, these floating sculptures shift and sparkle as they make their way towards the sea. Pause by the lagoon for wide-open views and a closer look at Iceland's ever-changing glacial landscapes.
- Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon: Step onto a beach where fragments of glacier rest and sparkle on black volcanic sand. Washed ashore from nearby Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon, these stunning pieces of ice create one of Iceland's most unique views. Watch the waves shift the scene moment by moment as you take in this awe-inspiring coastline.
- Skogar: Stand before one of Iceland's most powerful waterfalls as it plunges from the cliffs in a curtain of spray. Feel the force of the water, watch for rainbows in the mist and enjoy the wide-open scenery that surrounds it.
- Seljalandsfoss: Walk to one of Iceland's most distinctive waterfalls, where water tumbles from the cliffs into the pool below. Take in the spray, sound and scale of Seljalandsfoss as it frames the wild volcanic scenery of the South Coast.
- Travel through landscapes watched over by Hekla and Eyjafjallajökull, two of Iceland's most famous volcanoes. Admire their snow-dusted slopes from afar as you travel through an area known for stunning views that reveal the island's powerful geology.
- Reykjavik: Explore the world's northernmost capital in more detail with your Travel Director. You'll learn about Icelandic culture, creativity and coastal life as you visit landmarks from The Sun Voyager sculpture on the waterfront and Harpa Concert Hall's striking glass facade to the colourful Old Harbour. You'll also enjoy the peace of Tjörnin lake and the hilltop church Hallgrímskirkja, Perlan nature museum with its 360-degree panoramic views of the city, and the lively shopping street Laugavegur.
- Blue Lagoon: Soak in the warm, mineral-rich waters of the Blue Lagoon, one of Iceland's most iconic geothermal spas. Surrounded by black lava fields and clouds of steam, you'll experience the island's volcanic energy in a deeply relaxing way. Let the milky-blue waters and striking scenery create a soothing final moment on your Icelandic journey.
Be My Guest
- Selfoss: Join local storyteller Ásta Kristrún Ragnarsdóttir for insights into her family history and an exclusive Be My Guest meal. Alongside delicious local food, you'll be treated to Icelandic stories, poetry and learn more about the Island's heritage.
Make Travel Matter®
- Hellisheidavirkjun: Experience first-hand how green, sustainable energy is produced at Iceland's newest geothermal heat and power station in Hellisheiði. Learn how pressurised water, heated to over 300°C (570°F) underground, generates electricity and heat. Discover why Iceland leads the world in renewable energy use and climate innovation, protecting nature while powering everyday life. Your visit directly supports United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 13: Climate Action.
- An expert Travel Director and professional Driver
- Cherry-picked hotels, all tried and trusted
- All porterage and restaurant gratuities
- All hotel tips, charges and local taxes
- Breakfast daily and up to half of your evening meals
- Must-see sightseeing
- Audio headsets for flexible sightseeing
- Luxury air-conditioned coach with Wi-Fi in most countries or alternative transportation (such as rail journeys)
- Optional Experiences (Additional Cost) and free time
- On occasion, hotels of similar standard and location may be utilised
- 5 Breakfasts (B)
- 1 Lunch (L)
- 1 Dinner (D)
- Itinerary and inclusions are subject to change
- Price is for land, cruise and internal flights as specified. Flights not specified are not included
You’ll enjoy the icons and hidden gems with a Local Specialist by your side. Read more
With one on every itinerary, Be My Guest ensures your journey is truly one-of-a-kind, wherever it takes you. Read more
Find yourself overnighting in accommodations with stories as rich as the destinations you’re exploring. Read more
Download Brochure
Trafalgar Worldwide Tours (2027-28)
Dates & Pricing
Global Tour Rewards
GJ Loyalty Discount
A definite departure means minimum numbers have been reached for this departure to operate. Your Global Journeys Travel Advisor will check the availability of your departure date when you Enquire. Additional savings may apply. T&C’s apply.
Tour & cruises prices are per person. Prices shown have savings applied, are subject to availability and may be withdrawn at any time without notice. Pricing and trip details are correct at this point in time, however are subject to confirmation at the time of booking and are subject to change by Trafalgar. For cruise itineraries, cabin images are sourced from the cruise-line and should be treated as indicative only. Cabin inclusions, upholsteries and room layout may differ to the image(s) shown depending on the ship selected and your sailing dates.
