Iceland’s Geological Wonders

9 days from $4,585 Experience the extraordinary geology of Iceland’s western and southern coasts, encountering dramatic waterfalls, glaciers, black-sand beaches, and volcanic landscapes on this leisurely self-driving tour.

HIGHLIGHTS

� Get a local’s perspective on Reykjavík during a private food-focused walking tour.

� Follow ice tunnels deep into Langjökull glacier

on a guided tour. � Snorkel between the tectonic plates in

Thingvellir National Park. � Float amid icebergs calved from Iceland’s largest glacier in Jökulsárlón lagoon.

The itinerary below is a sample of what’s possible. Your Smithsonian Tailor-Made Journey will be handcrafted just for you. Days 1 & 2 – Reykjavík, Iceland

Arrive in Keflavik, and take a private transfer to the Blue Lagoon, where you’ll enjoy the amenities of the Retreat Spa and a restorative soak in therapeutic waters. Join a local guide for a private tour of some of the city’s favorite foodie spots, and sample a wide range of specialties. You’ll have the rest of the day free to explore this spirited capital city.

Day 3 – Stykkishólmur

Collect your rental car in downtown Reykjavík and drive north on the scenic road to the Snaefellsnes Peninsula. Enjoy an afternoon at leisure in the picturesque town of Stykkishólmur.

Day 4 – Snaefellsnes Peninsula

During a full day to explore the Snaefellsnes Peninsula at your leisure, see the iconic peak of Kirkjufell, hike in Snaefellsjökull National Park, and stroll the blackpebble beach of Djúpalónssandur. Then join a boat tour on Breidafjördur Bay and taste “Viking sushi” straight from the ocean.

Day 5 – Langjökull

Drive to Húsafell, set among vast lava fields on the western edge of Iceland’s second-largest glacier, Langjökull. Venture inside the Langjökull glacier on a guided tour, following tunnels that lead to the heart of the blue ice. Later, enjoy free time for a soak in the geothermally heated pools and hot tubs at your hotel.

Day 6 – The Golden Circle

Journey south to the famed Golden Circle region, where you’ll visit the two-tiered waterfall of Gullfoss, the bubbling geothermal hot spot of Geysir, and historic Thingvellir National Park. Don a dry suit and snorkel through the fissure between the continental plates on a small-group guided tour.

Days 7 & 8 – Vík

Following our self-guided tour, walk on Reynisfjara’s black-sand beach, drive to the edge of Sólheimajökull glacier, and experience the towering falls of Seljalandsfoss. Consider stopping at the LAVA Centre museum. The next day, travel east to Skaftafell, and opt for a hike to Svartifoss waterfall. Then float among icebergs during a Zodiac cruise on Jökulsárlón lagoon, and watch for ice calving off the Vatnajökull glacier. Stroll Diamond Beach, where many of the icebergs wash up after being carried out to sea.

Day 9 – Reykjanes Peninsula

Explore the otherworldly Reykjanes Peninsula on your way back to the airport in Keflavik.

WHERE TO STAY Centerhotel Midgardur

Contemporary hotel near Reykjavík’s main shopping street, with Nordic décor, an extensive spa, secluded garden, and relaxed bar.

Hotel Egilsen

Family residence dating back to 1867, this boutique hotel is in the fishing village of Stykkishólmur.

Hotel Húsafell

Stylish, sustainabilityminded hotel near Langjökull glacier featuring geothermal pools.

Hotel Vík í Mýrdal

Contemporary and welcoming base in Vík from which to explore Iceland’s south coast.