THE WONDERS OF ICELAND ITINERARY:
Day 1 — Depart the U.S.
Depart the U.S. and arrive in Reykjavik the next day.
Day 2 — Reykjavik, Iceland
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)
Day 3 — Reykjanes Peninsula
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 take a swim in this
pleasantly warm, mineral-rich water. (B)
Day 4 — Golden Circle and Vik
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 A.D. 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. Vik is 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)
Day 5 — Vik and Skaftafell National Park
Begin the day at Skaftafell National Park, a beautiful green
oasis located near the highest peak in Iceland. Later, an
unforgettable boat trip amid graceful floating icebergs serves
as an introduction to Iceland's dramatic glaciers and the
perfect opportunity to see many species of birds. (B,D)
Day 6 — Vik and Reykjavik
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)
Day 7 — Reykjavik
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)
Day 8 — Reykjavik and Tour Concludes
Transfer to the airport for flights back to the U.S. (B)
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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.
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2008 DEPARTURE
DATES & RATES |
Land Only Rates Per Person:
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Departures |
Double |
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July 13, 2008
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$1,699
|
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July 20, 2008
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$1,699
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July 27, 2008
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$1,699 |
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August 03, 2008
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$1,699
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August 24, 2008
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$1,699 |
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September 14, 2008
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$1,449 |
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September 21, 2008
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$1,449
|
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October 05, 2008 |
$1,249
|
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May 3, 2009 |
$1,599 |
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May 17, 2009 |
$1,749 |
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June 7, 2009 |
$1,749 |
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June 21, 2009 |
$1,799 |
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July 12, 2009 |
$1,899 |
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July 19, 2009 |
$1,899 |
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August 9, 2009 |
$1,899 |
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August 23, 2009 |
$1,899 |
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September 6, 2009 |
$1,749 |
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September 13, 2009 |
$1,699 |
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September 20, 2009 |
$1,699 |
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October 4, 2009 |
$1,499 |
Please call for single supplement pricing
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IMPORTANT INFORMATION |
- Sample land and air rate is subject to availability and
may vary by airline, flight number, or routing.
- Hotel check-in on your day of arrival is 3:00 p.m. Rooms
may not be available prior to that time.
- Due to flight schedules, an additional night may be
required in some Iceland Air gateway cities (at an
additional cost). Please inquire at time of booking.
- Singles are very limited on this tour and are subject to
availability.
- The Arbaer Open-Air Museum is open from June 1-August
31. Departures before and after these dates will visit the
Iceland Culture House.
- The glacier cruise on Day 5 operates early May to
mid-September, weather permitting. It may be substituted
with a lunch when the cruise is not operating during the
off-season.
- Our itineraries include many activities and may consist
of walking on uneven terrain or significant walking at
times. Some of the most unique sightseeing can mean
accessing locations that restrict motorcoaches, especially
in historic areas. For your comfort, we recommend bringing
sturdy walking shoes.
- The days and order of sightseeing may change to best
utilize your time on tour.
- If you have not purchased air through Smithsonian
Journeys Travel Adventures and wish to purchase transfers,
you must transfer at our pre-scheduled times.
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EDUCATIONAL
HIGHLIGHTS |
- Explore the natural history of this geologically "young"
nation during intriguing lectures led by local experts.
- Learn how Iceland hopes to become energy independent
through its hydro and geothermal power plants. Discover why
this is an achievable goal that makes Iceland the envy of
energy-import dependent countries.
- Acquaint yourself with the geologic energies at work in
Iceland during a lecture by a geologist who explains the
science behind geothermal hotspots, volcanic rocks, and
glaciers.
- Gain an appreciation for Icelandic culture as a
historian recounts famous Icelandic sagas, painting a vivid
picture of its early history.
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