First Place Photos
United States
Morning at the Bend
Dan Hartford
International
Costa Rican Paradise
Claudia Seelig
The world’s 18th-largest island is also one of the most fascinating, where eons of ice and glaciation, combined with an active molten core, have resulted in a landscape like few others on the planet. Traverse the landscape and national parks on foot, studying Iceland’s natural and cultural history with local experts. Don’t miss a chance to revitalize in one of South Iceland’s many thermal pools.
Highlights
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Learn about Iceland’s energy source at the Nesjavellir geothermal power plant.
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Explore Skaftafell National Park, which spans three glaciers on the southern edge of Vatnajökull, Europe’s largest icecap.
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Soak in a naturally heated river in the colorful, volcanic Landmannalaugar region.
Activity Particulars
Distance/Time: up to 6 miles per day (approximately 4-6 hours). One field trip up to 9 miles (7 hours); alternative walking options available. Terrain: trails with uneven surface, often hilly or mountainous. Ascents/Descents: Up to 530 feet over 1 mile (10 percent).
Day 1
Overnight flight from the U.S.A. | 1 night |
Days 2-3
Arrivals Reykjavik |
Coach to Selfoss | 2 nights |
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Begin your invigorating expedition in Iceland with a soak in its famous thermal waters, the Blue Lagoon. Hike the shores of Thingvellir Lake near the site of Iceland’s Saga-era parliament, and venture to the Geysir geothermal area and the Golden Waterfall of Gullfoss.
Lodging: Comfortable hotel with hot tubs, near hiking trails.
Days 4-5
Coach to Kirkjubæjarklaustur | 2 nights |
En route to Kirkjubæjarklaustur, drive along the south shore between sea and glaciers, and stop to learn about historic rural life at the Skogar Folk Museum. A full-day walking excursion explores the beautiful Fjardargljufur Canyon, Systraspi mountain, Systrafoss waterfall, and Kirkjugolf (Church Floor), a fascinating expanse of columnar basalt in the earth that has the appearance of a tiled church floor.
Lodging: Country hotel
Days 5-10
Coach to Skaftafell National Park | 2 nights |
Coach to Reykjavik | 1 night |
Departure |
In Skaftafell National Park, an extraordinary blend of natural forces join together to create a pristine environment. Hike the birch-covered hillsides and try to catch a glimpse of an arctic fox, then continue your walk near the Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon. A boat ride brings you up-close to the ice- riddled water. Learn about the volcanic and glacial action that continues to shape this region.
Lodging: National park resort; centrally located hotel.
Iceland
This island nation near the Arctic Circle comprises icy glaciers, active volcanoes and an abundance of bubbling, steaming geothermal pools that provide a unique and steady source of heat and energy. Viking history and 13th-century sagas pair with Iceland’s modern citizenry and abundant natural resources to create a vibrant country for the 21st century.
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What's Included...
Walking and Hiking in South Iceland: The Drama of Nature
You won't find a better value. Included at no additional cost on this date...
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7 nights accommodations
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22 meals:
7 breakfasts, 8 lunches, 7 dinners
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Expert-led lectures: 1
Expert-led lectures
Led by one or more of our world-class instructors, typically in a classroom setting, lectures come in the form of presentations, discussions or workshops and offer expert insight into your area of study.
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Field trips: 9
Field trips
The world is your classroom, as you're on location with an instructor to pursue your educational theme firsthand.
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Excursions: 2
Excursions
Not necessarily tied directly to the educational theme of your program, excursions include visits to sites of general interest and may be as much for pleasure as for learning.
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Hands-on experiences: 2
Hands-on experiences
Learn by doing in these "hands-on" activities directed by an expert.
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Flights during the program: 1
Flights during the program
Flights during the program that are included in the program price for all participants.
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