Upon your arrival in Reykjavik, a representative from Aurora Expeditions will meet you and transfer you to your group hotel. If arriving before 4 pm, you can visit the Aurora Expeditions hospitality area at the hotel to leave your luggage, enjoy refreshments, and collect your luggage tags. The ground operations team will be available to assist with pre-embarkation details or provide information on dining options, withdrawing cash, or shopping for last-minute items. The rest of the day is yours to enjoy at leisure, with meals at your own expense.

This morning, please ensure your cabin luggage is labeled with your name and cabin number. Your luggage will be collected from the hotel, transferred to the port, and delivered to your cabin before your arrival on board. Keep valuables and personal items with you throughout the day.

Today, embark on a tour of the Golden Circle, one of Reykjavik's most popular attractions. Visit Thingvellir National Park, the site of Iceland's first parliament, where the Eurasian and North American tectonic plates meet. Next, stop at the stunning Gullfoss waterfall, which drops 34 meters into the Hvita River, offering excellent photo opportunities. You can also explore the geothermal fields and famous geysers, where the hot springs and erupting steam showcase Iceland's immense geothermal power.

In the late afternoon, return to Reykjavik to board the Greg Mortimer. After settling into your cabin, have safety briefings, and in the evening, join the expedition team and crew for a Welcome Dinner.

Arnarstapi is the starting point of your adventures on the Snaefellsnes Peninsula, the gateway to Snaefellsjokull National Park. Snaefellsnes Peninsula is an area of diverse landscapes characterized by lava fields and glistening fjords and home to a vast array of birdlife. The area is crowned by the magnificent, ice-capped Snaefellsjokull volcano, a 700,000-year-old dormant subglacial volcano, visible from Reykjavik on a clear day and immortalized in Jules Verne's Journey to the Center of the Earth.

Personalize your expedition with the included 'Your Choice' experiences that suit your interests and fitness level.

Option 1 - Highlights of Snaefellsness  
Duration: 8 hours, including lunch 
Level of difficulty: Easy-Moderate (dependent on fitness) 
Your first stop will be the dramatic black pebble beach of Djupalonssandur, where you can marvel at the black sands, colossal rock formations, volcanic landscapes, and remains of a 1948 shipwreck. Next, visit Budir, a picturesque hamlet surrounded by the stunning landscapes of the Snaefellsnes Peninsula. Stop to admire Budakirkja, the 19th-century church, and explore the area before enjoying lunch at Hotel Budir. The restaurant is renowned for its fresh and local food, sourcing fresh ingredients directly from local farmers and fishermen. After lunch, rejoin the coach to travel to Snaefellsjokull National Park, encompassing a large area of Snaefellsnes Peninsula's western tip. For the more active, explore some incredible hiking trails, or enjoy your drive through the park and enjoy the beauty surrounding you. Concluding your day, continue to the iconic Mount Kirkjufell, a favorite among photographers and known to many as a filming location for the TV show "Game of Thrones." Not far from this majestic mountain is a waterfall that completes the picturesque scene.

Option 2 - Natural Wonders of Snaefellsnes  
Duration: 8 hours, including lunch 
Level of difficulty: Moderate
Upon disembarkation, hike the coastal trail connecting the two Arnarstapi and Hellnar villages (2 hours). Now a National Reserve, this easy-level hike encompasses geology, wildlife, amazing photo opportunities, folklore, and adventure. This old trail takes you along the wild shoreline with a view of the ocean, extraordinary columnar basalt and lava cliff formations on one side, and stunning mountains and Snaefellsjokull Glacier. The cliffs are alive with many bird species, such as the Arctic Tern, the kittiwakes, gulls, and fulmars. Next, step into the 8,000-year-old Vatnshellir Cave, replete with stunning geology, fascinating rock formations, and colorful volcanic rock. Meet at the base near the cave, where your friendly guide will provide you with all the necessary equipment, including a helmet and headlamp (it is strongly recommended that you wear comfortable and sturdy footwear, as the volcanic rock can be quite difficult to traverse). Then, your friendly guide will give you a brief safety talk before you descend the spiral staircase into this subterranean wonderland. The tour meanders through the path of the lava flow around 200 meters into a large cave that lies around 35 meters beneath the Earth's surface, where some rainbow-colored volcanic rocks and incredible petrified lava formations will greet you. The cave is a fairly easy walk, although it will involve a degree of climbing (you must be able to participate in prolonged stair climbing). Following lunch, rejoin the coach and travel to the iconic Mount Kirkjufell, a favorite among photographers and known to many as a filming location for the TV show "Game of Thrones." Not far from this majestic mountain is a waterfall that completes the picturesque scene.

Option 3 - Snaefellsnes Adventure 
Duration: 8 hours, including lunch 
Level of difficulty: Moderate-Difficult  
The Land of Fire and Ice is well-known for its incredible landscapes and contrasting terrains, including several natural and geological wonders rarely found anywhere else on Earth. The unique geological history of Snaefellsnes will draw you in, where you can explore sites revealing Iceland's unique geological history up close. Your first stop is at the Pufubjarg bird cliff, home of nesting puffins and fulmars. From here, hike along the rugged coastline to witness the stunning Londrangar basalt cliffs, a geologic wonder that looks like a huge rock castle. Many local birds here are a noisy bunch—puffins, but especially fulmars, nest in the cavities in the two pillars. From here, you hike across a lava field covered in moss to Malarrif, where you can see the lighthouse and explore the beach. Following an early lunch, rejoin the coach and head for Eldborg crater on a short volcanic rift 200 meters in diameter and 50 meters deep. It is the largest crater on this rift and was created in an eruption between 5000 and 6000 years ago. Unlike many of Iceland's volcanoes, it has a classic shape, smooth sloping sides, and a definite crater. A marked hiking path leads through a shrub-covered lava field to the top of the crater, offering incredible views of Snaefellsnes National Park. Concluding your day, continue to the symmetrical, hexagonal-shaped basalt columns at Gerduberg Cliffs. Stand in awe at these impressive cliffs, a natural marvel that spans 500 meters. To enjoy the best view, take a walk by the structures. Climbing up the cliff is possible, but to soak in the views of this geological structure, it's best to enjoy a walk alongside the cliffs.

Over the next three days, explore the Westfjords region, featuring outstanding landscapes with jaw-dropping views of dramatic fjords carved by ancient glaciers, sheer table mountains that plunge into the sea, and pristine North Atlantic vegetation.   

At Patreksfjordur, a shore excursion by a coach takes you to Latrabjarg cliffs. As Europe's largest bird cliff, Latrabjarg is home to millions of seabirds, such as puffin, razorbill, fulmar, and guillemot. Enjoy the impressive variety of natural wonders and unspoiled nature. Latrabjarg is the westernmost point in Europe, on the east coast of the North American continent on the other side of the Atlantic.   

Immerse yourself in the tranquillity of the afternoon as you cruise northward, taking in breathtaking landscapes and keeping a watchful eye for whales. Later, embark on a Zodiac landing to witness the awe-inspiring power of Dynjandi waterfall. 

Thingeyri, a quaint village on a slender strip of land, graces the shores of one of Iceland's most picturesque fjords, Dyrafjordur. Much like many other coastal settlements in Iceland, the village's culture and industry have been intricately woven with the influence of the sea over centuries. The surrounding landscape is adorned with towering mountains, lending a distinctive charm to the scenic expanse that envelops Thingeyri. This idyllic region is often hailed as the "Alps of the Westfjords," especially the highland area between the majestic fjords of Dyrafjordur and Arnarfjordur. The beauty of Thingeyri lies in its coastal simplicity and the dramatic backdrop of high mountains that paints a captivating portrait of this Icelandic village.

Personalize your expedition with the included 'Your Choice' experiences that suit your interests and fitness level. 

Option 1 - That Viking Thing Experience  
Duration: 2 hours + free time 
Level of difficulty: Easy  
Today, step back in time and learn about the Viking ways and how the hardy Norse people lived off the land. Walk through a recreated Viking area, learning about what is fact and what is fiction in the many stories you've heard about the famous Vikings. A short hike brings you to the old ruins of the Viking meeting place called a Thing - the closest translation in English is 'parliament.' Step inside the interactive Viking Museum for a chance to dress up in authentic hand-sewn Viking clothing, take photographs, drink Icelandic Viking beer, bake your own Viking bread, and explore the museum - all part of learning more about Viking ways.

Option 2 - Sandafell Mountain Hike   
Duration: 3 hours  
Level of difficulty: Moderate-Difficult (dependent on fitness level)  
For avid explorers, Iceland is littered with hidden gems, and possibly the best-kept secret of all is the Westfjords. Lying in the most north-westerly area of the island, this sprawling area of natural beauty is truly a hiker's paradise. Rocky peaks, deep crevices, and charming Icelandic towns all add to the appeal of the Westfjords, not to mention the various hiking trails snaking across the unusual countryside. Today, hike Sandafell, which offers gorgeous views over the town, surrounding mountains, and the water below. 

Picturesque Akureyri is Iceland's second-largest city outside the capital area, blessed with a superb snow-capped mountain backdrop.
  
Personalize your expedition with the included 'Your Choice' experiences that suit your interests and fitness level.

Option 1 - Godafoss, Lake Myvatn & Baths 
Duration: 8 hours, including lunch 
Level of difficulty: Easy 
Your first stop will be the Godafoss waterfall, one of the most spectacular waterfalls in Iceland. There is a 400-meter trail, easy and mostly flat, and it takes approximately 10 minutes to get to the main viewpoint. Next, visit Lake Myvatn and explore the area. After lunch, rejoin the coach to travel to Myvatn Nature Baths. Drawing on a centuries-old tradition, the tastefully designed complex offers bathers a completely natural experience that begins with a relaxing dip amidst clouds of steam rising from a fissure deep in the Earth's surface and ends with a luxurious swim in a pool of geothermal water drawn from depths of up to 2,500 meters / 8,200 feet.

Option 2 - Godafoss, Lake Myvatn & Dimmuborgir 
Duration: 8 hours, including lunch 
Level of difficulty: Moderate 
Your first stop will be the Godafoss waterfall, one of the most spectacular waterfalls in Iceland. There is a 400-metre trail, easy and mostly flat, and it takes approximately 10 minutes to get to the main viewpoint. Next, visit Lake Myvatn's Skutustadagigar pseudo craters. Wander the marked walking paths through the area. You can easily walk around the bowl-like landmasses or hike to reach the top for a magnificent view of the scenic surroundings. After lunch, rejoin the coach to travel to Dimmuborgir, an area strewn with enormous lava rocks and cliffs. These extraordinary lava cliffs and pillars form from molten lava flowing over a pond in the eruption of Ludentsborgir and Þrengslaborgir some 2,300 years ago. The most famous of these formations is "The Church," aptly named as this is a cave, open at both ends and with a dome-like ceiling.

Option 3 - Hverfjall Volcanic Crater Hike, Dimmuborgir & Dettifoss 
Duration: 8 hours, including lunch 
Level of difficulty: Strenuous 
Your first stop will be Dimmuborgir, an area strewn with enormous lava rocks and cliffs. These extraordinary lava cliffs and pillars form from molten lava flowing over a pond in the eruption of Ludentsborgir and Þrengslaborgir some 2,300 years ago. The most famous of these formations is "The Church," aptly named as this is a cave, open at both ends and with a dome-like ceiling. From here, walk up the steep slopes of Hverfjall Crater and around the crater's rim for otherworldly and awesome views of the surrounding landscape. This is a 9km loop trail and takes approximately 3 hours or 3.5 hours to include walking around the rim. After lunch, rejoin the coach to travel to Dettifoss waterfall in northeast Iceland, which is reputed to be the most powerful waterfall in Europe. The falls are 100 meters / 328 feet wide and drop 44 meters / 144 feet down to the Jokulsargljufur canyon.

In the late afternoon, reboard your vessel in Husavik, the whale-watching capital of Iceland.

Located approximately 40 km (25 miles) off the mainland, Grimsey is a verdant grassy island, probably best known for its proximity to the Arctic Circle, which cuts across the island. Many people travel to Grímsey to say they have crossed the imaginary line. With a tiny population of approximately 100 inhabitants, it’s a fantastic place for Zodiac cruising, kayaking, and photographing seabirds such as guillemots, gulls, and puffins.  

Leaving Grimsey to return closer to the mainland, you spend time scanning the waters of Skjalfandi Bay around Husavik, a town known as Iceland’s ‘whale watching capital,’ home to up to 24 different whale species, as well as dolphins and 30 variety of birds. The largest animal on earth, the blue whale, has also been spotted in Skjalfandi Bay, and if you are lucky, you might catch a glimpse of this magnificent creature as well as others, such as orcas, fin whales, and pilot whales.

In the afternoon, explore Seydisfjordur, a picturesque fishing village renowned for its charming collection of colorful wooden buildings around the lagoon. Take a stroll around town and discover the remnants of the timber houses from when the Norwegians settled here and established the herring fishing facilities from 1870-1900. Fjardara tumbles down in beautiful cascades from the valley above the town to the lagoon. There are several delightful hiking trails to explore, or you can discover a flourishing cultural scene with an arts center, the famous blue church that stages music concerts, and the only two cinemas in the east of Iceland. Back in town, browse the stores where you can discover handicrafts by local artists and artisans – perfect as a souvenir or gift.

In Iceland's east, you disembark in Djupivogur, your gateway to Vatnajokull National Park, home to Europe's largest glacier.

Personalize your expedition with the included 'Your Choice' experiences that suit your interests and fitness level.

Option 1 - Waterfalls, Glacial Lagoons & Hot Tubs 
Duration: 10 hours, including driving to/from Djupivogur 
Level of difficulty: Easy  
Maximum numbers: 60 (2 x 30)
Your first stop is at Fossarfoss, a waterfall surrounded by majestic mountains with spectacular views. The layered basalt flow formations surrounding the area offer a striking contrasting vista, making this a favorite location for photographers. From here, you depart for Vatnajokull National Park, one of the most famous natural attractions in the world. Explore the astonishing and exotic natural beauty of Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon by a four-wheeled Amphibian boat. Here, you observe giant icebergs float slowly towards the ocean from the glacier.  
Following lunch, rejoin the coach and head for Diamond Beach, a black sand beach where the icebergs are washed ashore, and Fjallsarlon Lagoon, renowned for the shimmering icebergs that float in its waters. Concluding your day, continue to the geothermal hot tubs in Hoffell, which are perfect for a nice, relaxing soak with an otherworldly view.

Option 2 - Wonders of Vatnajokull National Park & Canyon Hike 
Duration: 9 hours , including driving to/from Djupivogur 
Level of difficulty: Moderate 
Maximum numbers: 40 
Your first stop is at Fossarfoss, a waterfall surrounded by majestic mountains with spectacular views. The layered basalt flow formations surrounding the area offer a striking contrasting vista, making this a favorite location for photographers. From here, you depart for the dramatic Mulagljufur Canyon, a true hidden gem ideal for hiking. You navigate through overgrown bushes, small river streams, and trails along the canyon's rim. Find yourself marveling at the panoramic views of the Fjallsarlon glacier lagoon, picturesque mountains, vibrant textures, and intriguing rock formations. Following lunch, rejoin the coach and head for Vatnajokull National Park, one of the most famous natural attractions in the world. Explore the astonishing and exotic natural beauty of Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon on foot. Here, you observe giant icebergs float slowly towards the ocean from the glacier. Rejoin the coach for Diamond Beach, a black sand beach where the icebergs are washed ashore.
Note: Mulagljufur Canyon Hike is 3.8km (2.35 miles) one way and is approximately 3 hours long. Terrain – 315-meter elevation with a narrow, unpaved trail with two small river crossings, very easy to cross.

Option 3 - Falljokull Glacier Hike 
Duration: 9 hours (4 hours on the glacier) 
Level of difficulty: Moderate-Difficult 
Maximum numbers: 45 
Your first and only stop today is at Falljokull, one of the most impressive outlet glaciers of the Vatnajokull ice cap and a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Take an inspiring walk along a winding path through the glacier's dramatically changing landscape. Arriving at the tongue of the glacier, have your crampons ready and waiting for you. With your knowledgeable guide leading the way, you soon be exploring impressive terrain, walking through a wonderland of ice formations and brilliant blue colors. Following a hard-earned late lunch, rejoin the coach and depart for the ship in Djupivogur.
Note: Falljokull Glacier Hike equipment provided - ice axe, crampons, harness and helmet. The minimum shoe size to attach crampons is EU 35 (boots can be hired at additional cost if necessary). Requires a higher level of fitness and agility as you are on your feet for a long period (4 hours), and the terrain is challenging. Please note the transfer to and from the ship and Falljokull Glacier is 3 hours each way, so come prepared with a book or enjoy the magnificent scenery and a nice nap en route. 

Enjoy a morning and lunch onboard, searching for whales and seabirds. Your team of experts entertains you with informative talks.
Located off Iceland's south coast, the Westman Islands were formed by volcanic eruptions around 10,000 years ago. Westman Islands are surrounded by 15 other uninhabited islands and around 30 rocks and skerries, offering refuge for a rich array of seabirds. Westman Islands are considered to have the largest Atlantic puffin colony in the world, and when sailing around the islands, it is not uncommon to see puffins, but whales and seals are also present.

Personalize your expedition with the included 'Your Choice' experiences that suit your interests and fitness level.

Option 1 - Eldheimar Volcano Museum & Puffin Viewing 
Duration: 3 hours 
Level of difficulty: Easy  
Located off Iceland's south coast, the Westman Islands were formed by volcanic eruptions around 10,000 years ago. Heimaey is the main island in the archipelago, with a population of around 4,200. Various catastrophes have befallen the island of Heimaey and its inhabitants throughout history. The most tragic incident was probably the volcanic eruption in 1973. Visit a unique volcano museum that tells the story of the Heimaey volcanic eruption, the emergence of Surtsey Island in 1963, and the geology of the Westman Islands.  
Continue your drive to Storhofdi cape for some puffin watching, offering ample photo opportunities to capture shots of the charming little birds. Afterward, enjoy some free time to explore the island if time permits.

Option 2 - Eldheimar Volcano Climb & Museum   
Duration: 3 hours  
Level of difficulty: Difficult  
Learn more about the geology and volcanology of Iceland during a two-hour hike up a volcano. Reaching the summit, you can still feel the warmth emanating from its subterranean activity. At the end of the hike, you visit a unique volcano museum that tells the story of the Heimaey volcanic eruption, the emergence of Surtsey Island in 1963, and the geology of the Westman Islands. Afterward, enjoy some free time to explore the island if time permits.

Sail past Surtsey Island, a UNESCO World Heritage site that emerged from the sea in 1963 and is one of the youngest land masses on Earth.

During the early morning, cruise into Reykjavik and disembark at approximately 8.00 am. Farewell to your Expedition Team and fellow passengers as you continue your journeys. Transfer to Keflavik airport.

Note: After the voyage, booking flights departing after 12.00 pm on the day of disembarkation is recommended in case of delays.