Iceland’s geology in all its manifestations is world-class: glaciers, thundering waterfalls, immense cliffs, geothermal springs, boiling mud pots, and rock and lava-scapes of unearthly beauty. It alone makes a circumnavigation a very compelling idea. But when you add in components like Iceland’s people, their unique cultural heritage and contemporary character, as well as the island’s geography and birdlife, seeing it all in one 360º expedition is irresistible. Join the National Geographic Endurance on this 10-day Arctic expedition cruise to see the best that Iceland has to offer.
Highlights
Meet Iceland’s people and learn about their cultural heritage
Actively explore Iceland's rugged coasts in one 360º expedition
Experience all of Iceland’s unique geological manifestations
Travel with an expert team on a holistic, narrative voyage
Activity options vary depending on destination and operator. Activity level is determined by the range and intensity of activities you choose to participate in. Discuss with your Trip Planner which options are best for you.
Arrive in Reykjavik, the world’s northernmost capital, which lies just below the Arctic Circle. Transfer from the airport and spend the day exploring the sights, sounds, and tastes of this Arctic capital before embarking on the ship in the afternoon.
Explore Iceland’s western frontier, visiting Flatey Island, a trading post for many centuries, turned sleepy summer islet. Walk around the charming little hamlet that has survived, and hike across hiking trails that trace the path past seasonal puffin population on the cliffs.
Skagafjordur is the gateway to north Iceland, known for its glacier rivers, Icelandic horses, and saga history. Take a float trip on the Jokulsa river or visit a historic rural turf farm to understand rural life in Iceland. Or choose to explore Drangey Island and learn about Grettir the Strong and the saga named after him. You'll also have a chance to spot the multitudes of birds that call the island home, such as kittiwakes, shearwaters, and possibly even ravens and gyrfalcons.
Siglufjordur was the center of Iceland’s once-thriving herring industry. You stop by the Herring Museum for a salting demonstration and a tasting. Enjoy the surroundings of Iceland's northern most mainland settlement by joining the local forestry association for an afternoon of conservation in their local woods.
Husavik, the site of the first house built in Iceland, is our gateway to the geological exploration of northern Iceland. Depart for a full day overland visiting one of the largest waterfalls in Iceland, Godafoss, as well as the Lake Myvatn area, the most geologically active area in Iceland. Alternatively, enjoy an adventurous journey through Ásbyrgi Canyon, said to be formed from the hoof of Odin, filled with hiking and waterfall exploration, or stay along the coast and take a slower pace to the day with forest bathing, bird watching, and a soak in the GeoSea bath.
This morning, take Zodiacs ashore to the tiny island of Grimsey, which lies exactly on the Arctic Circle. Here we celebrate being officially in the Arctic, in the company of nesting arctic terns, fulmars, and puffins in burrows. Enjoy an afternoon at sea as you sail around the northern corner of Iceland to start your journey south.
Located on the eastern shore of Iceland, Bakkagerdi is well known for its local puffin colony. Walk across boardwalks to witness these colorful symbols of Icelandic wildlife. Once you have your best puffin photos, take an invigorating hike up to the best panoramic view of the fjord or bike along the fjord for an alternative view.
Arrive in Djupivogur and drive down the coast to explore the foot of the vast Vatnajokull icecap and the deep blue icebergs of the large ice lagoon of Jokulsarlon. Alternatively, go by 4x4 vehicle to visit some of the secluded valleys and remote waterfalls in the countryside around Djupivogur or join a hike to the black sand beaches of southern Iceland.
Day 9: Islands of Heimaey & Surtsey, Westman Islands
The Westman Islands were formed by undersea volcanoes between 5,000 and 10,000 years ago and are among the youngest of the world’s archipelagos. In 1963, the world witnessed on film the birth of its newest island, Surtsey—a UNESCO World Heritage site—which you see as you cruise past the coast. In 1973, Heimaey was threatened by lava flows that nearly closed off its harbor. Visit the crater, where the earth is still hot, for amazing views of areas that have been engulfed by lava.
Day 10: Reykjavik | Disembark | Home
1 Breakfast, 1 Lunch
Today, disembark in Reykjavík and transfer to the airport for flights home. For those with later flights, take a morning excursion and then transfer to the airport for flights home.
Apologies for the inconvenience. Prices for not yet published. Below per person rate based on previous season. Contact us to confirm upcoming season pricing.
Prices for are estimated based on inflation. Contact us to confirm pricing and availability for your desired departure date.
$18,4002-3 travelers
Rates are subject to change without notice. Book early to get the best rate.
Category 1
Located on the Fore Deck. 183 square ft room with two large windows, Alcove seating, Relax chair, private bathroom, tv, Wi-Fi and hair dryers
Category 2
Located on the Fore Deck. 205 square ft. room with two large windows, Alcove seating, Relax chair, private bathroom, tv, Wi-Fi and hair dryers.
Category 3
Located on the Main Deck. 205 square ft. suite with balcony, sofa, private bathroom, tv, Wi-Fi and hair dryers
Category 4
Located on the Lounge Deck. 205 square ft. suite with balcony, sofa, private bathroom, tv, Wi-Fi and hair dryers
Category 5
Located on the Bridge Deck. 205 square ft. suite with balcony, sofa, private bathroom, tv, Wi-Fi and hair dryers
Category 6
Located on the Bridge Deck. 344 square ft suite with large balcony, sofa bed, private bathroom, tv, Wi-Fi and hair dryers
Category 7
Located on the Bridge Deck. 430 square ft. suite with large balcony, sofa bed, bathtub, walk-in closet, private bathroom, tv, Wi-Fi and hair dryers
Category A Solo
Located on the Main Deck. 140 square ft. suite with balcony, sofa, private bathroom, tv, Wi-Fi and hair dryers
Category B Solo
Located on the Lounge Deck. 140 square ft. suite with balcony, sofa, private bathroom, tv, Wi-Fi and hair dryers
For full cancellation policy details, please contact us for a quote.
Included
9 Breakfasts, 10 Lunches, 9 Dinners
9 Nights Accommodations
Accommodations as listed
Ground transportation as listed
Activities as listed
Meals as listed
Access to a 24-7 Emergency line while traveling
Assistance by the onboard National Geographic Photography Expert
Access to the OM System Photo Gear Locker with the latest gear to try out on loan (aboard Lindblad Expeditions-National Geographic fleet)
Beer, wine, cocktails, and spirits are available aboard the ship. Additionally, a selection of super premium wines and liquors is offered for purchase.
Crew gratuities
Complimentary Starlink-enabled Wi-Fi internet is available to all guests aboard Lindblad Expeditions-National Geographic fleet, enabling email, messaging, and social media.
Park and site entrance fees, special access permits, and port taxes
Excursions, hotels, and airport transfers, as indicated in the itinerary
Selection of exploration tools curated to your destination, such as Zodiacs and glass-bottom boats, stand-up paddleboards, kayaks, snorkeling equipment (including wetsuits, masks, and fins), and other state-of-the-art gear
Guidance and company of leading expedition staff
All meals as indicated in the itinerary, both aboard and onshore. Meals are inspired by regional cuisine and locally sourced where possible
Hors d’oeuvres inspired by regional cuisine and locally sourced where possible
24-hour access to snacks, premium coffees and teas, non-alcoholic beverages, and filtered water
Presentations on your destination by expedition staff and expert guest speakers
Complimentary reusable water bottle to fill at onboard water refill stations
The services of a physician, physician’s assistant, nurse practitioner, or paramedic where available
Morning stretch classes and 24-hour access to exercise equipment where available
24-hour access to lounges, observation decks, library stocked with regionally relevant literature, and other shared spaces
Fuel and transportation surcharges (when applicable)
Laundry, spa treatments, scuba diving, Wi-Fi and phone services (except when indicated as included)
We strongly recommend our guests to take Travel Protection Plan. A Plan with comprehensive coverage to protect you from cancellation fees, costs incurred due to trip delays/interruption, damaged or lost baggage, medical assistance, and evacuation during your travels
Airfare (except flights when indicated as included), pre- and post-expedition extensions, additional hotel nights, and private transfers (except when indicated as included)
Travel protection plans and passport, visa, and immigration fees
Enhanced and premium Wi-Fi plans, which may enable video chat, web browsing, and streaming (connectivity permitting)
We are so glad that we chose Adventure Life. The service is top-notch. Everything is well taken care of and we just have to print the documents and go. Franny even gave us timely updates on possible airport strike.
Friendly people who ask good questions to make sure your trip is what you want
K.Godinez
5 months ago
Our six-day tour in Iceland went smoothly with one exception. We had asked for two rooms each night. Somehow we were booked with one room with three beds. It could not be fixed at the first hotel in Reykjavik because the hotel was fully booked. Once informed of the problem, however, Adventure Life rebooked for two rooms for the remainder of the trip. As an 85-year-old traveler, I appreciated that one could participate at different physical levels at many of the stops. Iceland is a great place to visit but on the expensive side.
