In winter, Iceland is elemental. Walk the fractured rift between two tectonic plates at Þingvellir, feel the ground hum above ancient lava tubes, and experience an island that has learned to live with fire. Alongside dedicated volcanologists and local pioneers, explore the Golden Circle's geothermal fury — then step out into the Arctic night and wait for the aurora borealis to find you.
Call or email our experts to find out more and help with ideas and planning.
Sarah
Petra
CharlotteWelcome to Iceland. Your expedition begins as you touch down on this volcanic island, greeted by crisp Arctic air.You will be met and transferred to Reykjavík, for an introductory gathering with your fellow travellers, National Geographic Expedition Leader and National Geographic Expedition Expert. From here, venture into the landscapes of Þingvellir National Park to walk between the towering tectonic plates of North America and Eurasia. Next, visit an innovative geothermal greenhouse farm. Learn about zero-waste, earth-powered agriculture before sitting down to a fresh farm-to-table lunch. Settle into your countryside lodging this afternoon. This evening, enjoy a welcome dinner highlighting sustainable local flavours.
Under the soft mantle of Nordic winter darkness, visit Sólheimar Ecovillage to learn about this pioneering community's self-sufficiency. From there, head into the volatile heart of the Golden Circle. Witness the Geysir geothermal field, where the restless Strokkur geyser violently ejects boiling columns into the crisp air. Nearby, watch the thundering Gullfoss waterfall plunge dramatically into an icy canyon. Conclude at Laugarvatn Fontana, baking traditional rye bread in the geothermally heated earth before a relaxing soak in lakeside thermal baths. In the evening, venture into the dark with your Expedition Leader to scan the skies for the dancing green ribbons of the elusive aurora borealis.
Feel the ground hum as you plunge into the restless forces shaping Iceland's volatile crust. Descend into a pioneering geothermal power plant to examine the brilliant innovations and cutting-edge technology shaping the future of green energy.Transition from modern technology to raw geology as you step into the cool, silent sanctuary of a subterranean volcanic lava tube. Follow your Expedition Leader along the ancient pathways of underground fire, where specialised illumination reveals spectacular frozen rivers of multi-hued basaltic rock. Afterward, travel to the steaming geothermal valley of Hveragerði, where you have free time for lunch on your own before returning to your hotel to enjoy dinner.
Travel along the dramatic southern coast, where the raw power of ice and rock takes centre stage. Stand before Seljalandsfoss waterfall as glacial meltwaters from Eyjafjallajökull glacier cascade down an ancient, moss-draped cliffside. Continue to the thunderous torrent of Skógafoss, feeling the cool mist from its immense hydraulic power. Following a lunch of local seasonal flavours, step through a living portal of Icelandic resilience at the Skógar Museum. Explore historic turf houses and delicate artefacts that reveal how early settlers survived this unforgiving landscape. After a rest at the hotel, join your Expedition Leader for a nocturnal search for the shifting colours of the aurora borealis.
Uncover the fiery heart of the island at an interactive lava centre. Alongside a volcanologist, analyse the powerful seismic forces that drive iconic peaks like Hekla, Katla, and Eyjafjallajökull. Head to a heritage horse farm for a private session that illuminates living history. Meet purebred Icelandic horses, learning how their unique genetics have been intertwined with the human saga since the days of early settlement. Return to the hotel for some downtime before gathering for a farewell dinner and presentation decoding the science of the aurora borealis and celebrating an amazing time in Iceland.
Savour a final breakfast as the frost-dusted countryside catches the soft morning light, then transfer to the airport for your onward travel.
Our Important Notes and Packing List cover all essentials, from necessary equipment to inclusions, ensuring you're fully equipped and informed for this extraordinary adventure and more.
Cold Weather: • Long-sleeved shirts or sweater • Scarf • Warm gloves • Warm hat • Warm layers • Warm waterproof jacket Documents: • Flight info (required) (Printouts of e-tickets may be required at the border) • Insurance info (required) (With photocopies) • Passport (required) (With photocopies) • Vouchers and pre-departure information (required) • Visas or vaccination certificates (With photocopies) Essentials: • Binoculars (optional) • Camera (With extra memory cards and batteries) • Cash, credit and debit cards • Day pack (Used for daily excursions or short overnights) • Ear plugs • First-aid kit (should contain lip balm with sunscreen, sunscreen, whistle, Aspirin, Ibuprofen, bandaids/plasters, tape, anti-histamines, antibacterial gel/wipes, antiseptic cream, Imodium or similar tablets for mild cases of diarrhea, rehydration powder, water purification tablets or drops, insect repellent, sewing kit, extra prescription drugs you may be taking) • Flashlight/torch (Headlamps are ideal) • Fleece top/sweater • Footwear • Hat • Hiking pants (Please bring long pants that are not jeans or cotton in fabric. We suggest hiking pants, windproof pants, or waterproof pants in order for you to be comfortable.) • Locks for bags • Moneybelt • Outlet adapter • Personal entertainment (Reading and writing materials, cards, music player, etc.) • Reusable water bottle • Shirts/t-shirts • Sleepwear • Small travel towel (For visits to hot springs and rivers) • Sunglasses • Swimwear • Toiletries (Preferably biodegradable) • Watch and alarm clock • Waterproof backpack cover • Windproof rain jacket Health & Safety: • Face masks (Clients will be only be required to wear a face mask where it is mandated by local regulations.) • Hand sanitizer • Pen (Please bring your own pen for filling out documents.) Smart Dress: • Smart outfit (For evenings out)
"When deciding what to pack, considerations will vary based on your specific itinerary, the regions you are visiting, and the season in which you are travelling. Generally speaking, we recommend packing thoughtfully and keeping your luggage to one checked bag at a manageable weight to facilitate seamless transitions throughout your expedition.In addition to your primary luggage, you will also require a small day pack or shoulder bag. This smaller bag is essential for keeping your camera, water, and personal items close at hand during day walks, excursions, and daily explorations."
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