Iceland – Land of Fire and Ice

Today you’ll depart the USA on your overnight flight to Keflavik, Iceland.

Iceland is full of surprises – for one, it isn’t covered in ice! It’s a stunning mix of green plains, wild volcanic scenery, beautiful coasts and lakes, spouting geysers, hot springs, mud pools and sophisticated cities. Topped off by clean, fresh air, you’ll find yourself in a trance surrounded by unique natural beauty throughout the country. Upon arrival, you’ll be met by a representative of Mayflower Cruises & Tours and transferred to your hotel in the town of Hveragerdi or Selfoss. Rooms will be available for check-in upon arrival. All flights should arrive by 3:30 pm. This evening, enjoy a welcome dinner at the hotel. Meal: D

After breakfast, your adventure to the South Shore begins with a journey through small villages and farmlands to the majestic mountains with views including Mt. Hekla, the most active volcano in Iceland, and the towering, ice-capped strato volcano Eyjafjallajokull, which last erupted in 2010. Iceland is also famous for its waterfalls and you’ll see two of the most magnificent—the Seljalandsfoss which tumbles over high rock escarpments allowing you to walk behind the waterfall, and Skogafoss. Learn about the preservation of the Southern Iceland cultural heritage on the visit to Skogar Folk Museum. Exploration continues to Dyrholaey, a magnificent rocky headland with sheer cliffs, en route to the village of Vik. Head to the seashore, flanked by steep bird cliffs rising high above the beautiful black sand beach. In the sea, just outside of Vik, see the Reynisdrangar Rocks which stand 216 feet above sea level at their highest point. Meal: B

This morning, head for the rough tracks of Reykjanes, one of the most active volcanic areas in Iceland. Visit the geothermal area of Krysuvik and Lake Kleifarvatn with its hot springs and solfatares. The moonlike surroundings of the lake never fail to leave a strong impression on visitors! A remarkable life enriching experience is a visit to the Blue Lagoon – a lake of warm, mineral-rich geothermal water, internationally renowned for its healing prowess. Located in the middle of a lava field in the pure and beautiful Icelandic wilderness, water is heated by underground volcanic activity at a depth of 5,400 feet and is pumped to the surface to form this man-made wonder. The Blue Lagoon is known for its special properties and its beneficial effect on the skin. Visitors from all over the world come here in search of health, relaxation and an exotic experience. You’ll have an opportunity to soak in the pleasantly warm mineral-rich water. Meal: B

Reykjavik, Iceland’s capital city of 100,000 people, is unique in many ways. This capital is a modern city with a variety of restaurants, museums, galleries and theaters. Heated entirely by geothermal water, it is home to the “smoking bay”, so named for the rising steam that greeted the city’s Viking founder, Angolfr Arnarsson, as he sailed into the bay here in 874 AD. The city center is the heart of Reykjavik and home to many charming historic buildings of stone and timber contrasting with imaginative modern architecture. It has the features of a modern society complemented by a close connection to natural wonders right on the city’s doorstep. Hot springs, glaciers, lava fields, midnight sun, waterfalls, northern lights, volcanoes and bizarre landscapes – the city has them all! On the included panoramic city tour of the world’s most northerly capital, see the old town center, Parliament, cathedral, harbor, National Museum, “Pearl” and Hofoi House (site of the Iceland summit of 1986), and Hallgrímskirkja Church whose steeple is a landmark of the city. Enjoy free time for lunch on your own and shopping, then prepare to “take off” as you visit FlyOver Iceland. During this virtual flight, experience waterfalls, geysers, scenic landscapes, and the spectacular natural wonders of Iceland like never before. With the special effects of motion, wind, sound and scents, this unique “flying” experience is sure to be a highlight of your day! Return to the hotel late afternoon for an evening at leisure. Meal: B

On the full-day tour of the Golden Circle, enjoy scenic drives along with the geological and historic sites of the island. Your excursion includes a drive to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Thingvellir National Park. A remarkable geological site, it is one of the few spots in the world where the Mid-Atlantic Ridge is seen above water. The amazing canyon that runs through the park is a meeting point of two of the earth’s tectonic plates. The park is situated by Lake Thingvallavatn, the largest lake on the island. The park is also the most historic site on the island as the world’s oldest democratic parliament was founded here in 930 AD. You’ll see outstanding natural wonders when you visit Geysir, Iceland’s most famous area for thermal activity. View “Strokkur”, one of the most active geysers, and “Gullfoss” (Golden Waterfall), Iceland’s most famous waterfall. Before returning to the hotel, a visit to a local farm gives you the chance to meet some of the native Icelandic horses, as well as learn about the growing of healthy tomatoes using green energy, pure water and organic pest controls. This evening, join your travel companions for the farewell dinner. Meals: B, D

Following breakfast, transfer to Keflavik Airport and bid a fond farewell to amazing Iceland, as you return home with memorable life enriching experiences to cherish. Meal: B