The Wonders of Iceland (9 Days) 

     Depart USA for Iceland. Your flight includes meals, drinks, and in-flight entertainment for your journey.

     An island of dramatic contrasts, Iceland is a landscape forged by fire and ice. Steaming lava fields and hot pools reflect its volcanic nature, while massive glaciers continue to sculpt the mountains and valleys, leaving thundering waterfalls and plunging fjords. The Icelandic people combine a reverence for their Viking heritage and ancient language with an industrialized, progressive society. Discover the spectacular landscapes and proud people of this small island nation during this fascinating journey. Enjoy a day at leisure to relax in Reykjavik.

     Your tour begins in Reykjavik, where you embark on a fascinating city tour that highlights such important sites as the 19th-century Parliament House, Austurvollur Square, the Hofoi House and Tjornin Lake. Visit the Arbaer Open-Air Folk Museum*, which comprises buildings and artifacts from different periods, including an 18th-century turf chapel. Gather this evening for a welcome reception and dinner. (D)

     During a full-day excursion, explore the scenic landscape of the Reykjanes Peninsula, stopping at Bessastadir, an ancient Viking site that is now the official residence of the current president. Continue to Lake Kleifarvatn to see an amazing display of geothermal activity, including steaming fumaroles, hot springs and mud pots. Conclude your day at the famous Blue Lagoon, a natural geothermal pool in the middle of a large, dramatic lava field. Enjoy time to relax and/or take a swim in this pleasantly warm, mineral-rich water. (B)

     Today, travel to the "Golden Circle" which encompasses many of Iceland's most renowned natural scenic wonders. Thingvellir National Park is Iceland's most historic site and one of its most beautiful places. The oldest existing parliament in the world first met here in AD 930. The park also features the geologically significant Mid-Atlantic Ridge, where the American and European tectonic plates meet. Continue to the amazing hot springs of Geysir, then marvel at one of the island's greatest natural wonders, the two-tiered Gullfoss Waterfall. Continue south to the town of Vik, a small town set along Iceland's dramatic southern coast, where black sand beaches, crashing waves, and towering figures of black rock form an unforgettable sight. (B,D)

     Begin the day at Skaftafell National Park, a beautiful green oasis located near the highest peak in Iceland. Later, an unforgettable boat trip amidst graceful, floating icebergs serves as an introduction to Iceland's dramatic glaciers and the perfect opportunity to see many species of birds. (B,D)

     Today, on your trip back to Reykjavik, travel across fertile pastures, sand flats, and glacial rivers en route to Skogar, a small settlement located next to a magnificent waterfall. Visit Skogar's Folk Museum, which houses an interesting collection of Icelandic artifacts. Next, enjoy a visit to a traditional Icelandic horse farm. Learn how Iceland's horses are directly descended from those brought by the Vikings and how Iceland is preserving this heritage. Before arriving into Reykjavik visit Hveragerdi, where steam from the earth heats greenhouses that provide Iceland with fresh produce. This evening, attend an in-depth discussion that enhances your understanding of all that you have witnessed. (B)

     Today is at leisure to explore the capital city of Iceland with its many art galleries and museums. You may choose to join an optional whale watching or "Super Jeep" glacier excursion. During the "Super Jeep" excursion you will travel on top of Iceland's Langjökull Glacier. Gather for a farewell dinner this evening. (B,D)

     Our visit to this remote land finally comes to an end, leaving you with many pleasant memories of a wonderful vacation. (B)