Name: Iceland in Depth
Brand: Swan Hellenic
SKU: V2123080608

Reykjavík, despite its small size, is the capital of Iceland. At the top of the town stands the distinctive Hallgrímskirkja church, designed by renowned Icelandic architect Guðjón Samúelsson. The revitalised harbour area features the futuristic Harpa Concert Hall and the Maritime Museum, showcasing the city's cultural heritage A trip to Reykjavík would be incomplete without a visit to the Blue Lagoon, famous for its therapeutic geothermal waters.

Considered one of Iceland’s most impressive falls, the thunderous Dynjandi waterfall in the Westfjords region gives the impression of a bridal veil as it spreads down ever-growing cascades. The walk takes 15 minutes passing five smaller waterfalls. Nearby, Hrafnseyri is the birthplace of Jón Sigurðsson, 19th-century leader of the Icelandic Independence movement. The museum includes an Icelandic turf house.

Walk to Dynjandi Waterfall With Swan Hellenic Expedition Team

Included

01 h 30 m

Your onboard expedition team, experts in all things Icelandic, will guide you along the path to this hidden treasure.
Awaken your spirit of adventure as you witness nature's raw power firsthand
Discover the secrets of Dynjandi and providing a deeper understanding of its geological significance and cultural importance.

Surrounded by fjords in the Westfjords region, Ísafjördur is a bustling fishing town in northwest Iceland with colourful wooden 18th- and 19th-century houses in its old town, Neskaupstadur. Nearby, Sudavik is home to the Arctic Fox Centre. Iceland’s only mammal, the arctic fox, lives on the lush tundra of Hornstrandir Nature Reserve, the northernmost peninsula in the Westfjords with two of Europe’s largest bird cliffs.

Arctic Foxes & Avalanches

Included

03 h 00 m

Get to know the history of Súðavík and the avalanche that struck the small village in 1995
Your journey begins with breathtaking views over one of Iceland’s largest fjords, Ísafjarðardjúp, punctuated with the majestic Snæfjallaströnd mountain chain
Enjoy an exciting live performance from a local musician during your visit to Súðavík’s church

Westfjords Life and Culture

Included

03 h 00 m

Discover the time-honoured local methods of salting fishing
Go back in time as you enter the turf-and-stone fishing shacks, greeted by a local dressed in a traditional sheepskin fisherman's outfit
Visit the Maritime Museum, housed in some of Iceland's oldest buildings, to delve into the history of the fishing industry that has sustained the area for centuries

Whale Watching from Isafjordur

Optional

02 h 30 m

Sail along the beautiful Snæfjallaströnd (Snow-Mountain-Coast) while looking out for whales in the water
Besides whales we might encounter seals as well as dolphins

Holt Inn Farmers & Flavours

Optional

03 h 30 m

Get to know the history of the Stadardalur Valley , which at one point was inhabited by multiple farms and one of the first places in Iceland to be settled by the Vikings
Visit the farm and interact with the animals and enjoying Icelandic delicacies

ATV Tour (2 persons/ATV)

Optional

02 h 00 m

Feel the exhilaration of travelling through the mountainous terrain of the Westfjords on your choice of a ATV
When you first arrive, get geared up with all the essentials to venture out on this one of a kind Icelandic experience
Take in the panoramic vistas of deep blue waters and snowy mountains that surround you as you ascend to their peaks

Calm Fjord Kayaking

Optional

02 h 00 m

See for yourself why the Westfjords are a haven for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike with its calm waters and soaring mountains
This journey provides an intimate connection with the environment, allowing you to observe the delicate ecosystems and appreciate the intricate balance of nature
Be on the lookout for curious seabirds soaring above you and active marine life swimming beneath you

A jewel of the Westfjords, Vigur is the fjord's second-largest island and a thriving seabird sanctuary. Flocks of arctic terns, puffins, guillemots and eider ducks nest atop rocky cliffs. As one of only two inhabited islands, Vigur supports a family farm continuing the centuries-old eiderdown harvest across 3,500 nests. This remote pillar also houses Iceland's sole windmill, its tiniest post office and a 200-year-old, still-seaworthy rowing boat.

Vigur Island Walking Tour

Included

01 h 30 m

Spot eider ducks nesting in great numbers, you might even see the majestic birds plucking down from their chests to make a warm shelter for their eggs
Get up close with a 200-year-old, eight-oar rowing boat and the oldest windmill in Iceland
See the charming houses that dot Vigur's landscape including Viktoria House,built in 1862 and restored by the National Museum of Iceland in 1993, as well as a house established by a young priest in 1884

Vigur Island visit by ship zodiacs

Included

01 h 30 m

Spot eider ducks nesting in great numbers, you might even see the majestic birds plucking down from their chests to make a warm shelter for their eggs
Get up close with a 200-year-old, eight-oar rowing boat and the oldest windmill in Iceland
See the charming houses that dot Vigur's landscape including Viktoria House,built in 1862 and restored by the National Museum of Iceland in 1993, as well as a house established by a young priest in 1884

Grímsey is a remote island located 40 km off Iceland’s north coast. Many people travel here for the purpose of setting foot in the Arctic Circle, the only place in Iceland where you can. The island is also home to fewer than 100 people, but over one million seabirds. Birdlife thrives here thanks to the lack of egg predation and the well-stocked surrounding seas. Grímsey has one of Iceland’s largest tern nesting sites and largest puffin colonies.

Life in Arctic Circle

Included

02 h 30 m

Enjoy your stay on Iceland’s northernmost inhabited territory
Be prepared for an exhilarating physical challenge that will take you across approx. 7.5km of invigorating nature walk with some inclines towards the Arctic circle artwork
Stop at the bird cliffs where, depending on the time of the season, you’ll be able to spot several species of birds including puffins, guillemots and gulls

Hrisey Island is a small island in the Eyjafjordur fjord in northern Iceland. It is home to various wildlife, including puffins, seals, and whales. Hriseyjarfjall Mountain is the highest point and offers views of the surrounding landscape and the vast expanse of Eyjafjörður fjord. Despite its size, Hrisey Island possesses a rich cultural heritage. Traditional Icelandic crafts, such as hand-knitting and woodworking, preserve the island's identity.

Home to some 18,000 residents, Akureyri stands proud as the Land of Fire and Ice’s ‘Capital of the North’. It’s the gateway to some natural wonders including the Myvatn region, Dettifoss waterfall, Godafoss waterfall and Asbyrgi canyon. But before you rush off, take some time to explore: Iceland’s winsome second city is colourful, cosy and utterly enchanting – even the red traffic lights are cute. Instagrammers will adore heart-shaped stop signs. Enjoy the quaint harbourfront; climb the steps to the towering Akureyri Church; stroll around Lystigardurinn, the city’s Arctic botanical garden; visit the Laufás Turf Houses; get in the festive spirit early at the Christmas House (Jolahusid); admire the exhibits at the Akureyri Art Museum or the Hof cultural centre; or take a dip in the outdoor, geothermal swimming pool.

Myvatn Hike

Optional

07 h 00 m

Challenge yourself with this trek through the unique and stunning landscapes of northern Iceland that promise to make the entire journey worth the effort
Start your hike at Hverfell, a large, circular volcanic crater about 140 m deep and with a diameter of 1,000 m
As you drive through Dimmuborgir, see the strange formations, columns and arches that have been the source of many folktales in Iceland

Forest Lagoon & Panoramic Akureyri

Optional

03 h 00 m

Pass through the oldest and newest parts of Akureyri to admire the contrast of modern houses and some dating back to the 1800s
After soaking in the geothermal pools, visit the 1,300 sq. m. complex that holds a bistro, two infinity pools, a cold tub and a sauna at the spa
Drive through the forest of Kjarnaskógur to admire the scenery as you pass two small hydroelectric plants, a golf course and the airport

Leisurely Akureyri & Goðafoss Waterfall

Included

03 h 30 m

Let the town's storied past and architectural treasures fill your imagination as you drive through its picturesque streets
Learn about pagan chieftain Thorgeir Thorkelsson’s dramatic declaration in the year 1000 that changed the course of history
Your visit to the Botanical Garden will introduce you to every indigenous species that thrives in Iceland as well as an extensive collection of plants from around the world

Jewels of The North

Optional

08 h 00 m

Savour the flavours of the region with a visit to the local restaurant for lunch
Hear from your guide the riveting tale behind how the Goðafoss, also known as the "Waterfall of the Gods,” earned its name
Your last stop will be at the pseudo-craters of Skútustaðir where there is a natural wetlands conservation area

Off The Beaten Track (Off-roading in Northern Iceland)

Optional

07 h 30 m

Standing on the rim of the old crater Lúden, you'll be rewarded with an incredible pano-ramic view of the surrounding area
Stop to hear the birds singing in the birch and flower covered area Vaglaskógur forest
Situated at the edge of the Highlands, stop at Aldeyjarfoss Waterfall with white water cascading from the towering cliff into a ravine lined with black basalt columns, a typical and breathtaking Icelandic landscape

Whale Watching

Optional

04 h 00 m

The best time to spot whales is from May to September when the conditions are optimal for feeding
Akureyri’ boasts an impressive 95% success rate for spotting these magnificent creatures
Get the chance to see a variety of whale species including the blue-fin, the humpback, the minke, and the sei

Brightly painted wooden houses line Seyðisfjörður’s port, regarded as east Island’s cultural hub with a lively arts scene disproportionate to its size. Seyðisfjörður has attracted writers and artists and hosts a summer arts festival. Surrounded by incredible nature, the nearby Skálanes nature reserve is known for its diverse wildlife with over 47 bird species, as well as 150 plant species. Reindeer, seals and porpoises often populate the area.

Skálanes Nature Reserve - incl

Included

03 h 15 m

Enjoy this guided tour of Skálanes nature reserve where your guide will point nesting seabirds, like the large colony of Eiders and Arctic Terns, as well as stunning cliffs reaching up to 640 m
Explore the landscape that still holds remnants of farms and turf structures that demonstrate the relationship of humans and nature since the settlement of Iceland
This tour also includes a stop to an archaeological dig site, called Thorarinsstaðir, to see the stave church and graveyard discovered by a team in 1998

Vök Nature Baths

Optional

03 h 00 m

Take a soak in the floating geothermal pools at the Vök Baths to unwind and revitalize while complete surrounded by the rest of Lake Urriðavatn
Admire the architecture of the baths, designed to evoke a deeper connection and appreciation for the beauty of Iceland’s one-of-a-kind nature
Learn the legend of the thermal pools and how it was once believed to be created by a monster living at the bottom of the lake, preventing the ice above it from forming

Horseback Riding in the Eastern Fjords

Optional

04 h 30 m

Journey on horseback through the stunning East Fjords to discover the bountiful and vibrant unspoiled nature of the region
Listen as your local guide recounts stories and folklore from area as they lead you to to some of the most picturesque points for pictures
Get to know the five gaits of the small sturdy Icelandic horses are famed for: the walk, trot, gallop, tölt (a smooth run) and skeið (flying pace)

Archaeology, History and Heritage Walk

Included

02 h 00 m

Fjörður archaeological excavation site under mt. Bjólfur
Explpore the town of Seyðisfjörður and enjoy refreshments at Skaftfell Bistro
Visit the fascinating Technological Museum of East Iceland

Chasing Waterfalls – Hike

Optional

02 h 30 m

Hike up to Vestdalur Valley near Seyðisfjörður
Magnificent waterfalls and the surrounding nature of the area

With Viking-era origins, Djupivogur, a tranquil fishing village with fewer than 500 residents, is renowned for its unhurried pace of life and the art installation 'The Eggs at Merry Bay,' featuring 34 granite eggs representing local bird species. Nearby, Vatnajökull National Park, covering 14 percent of Iceland, offers a wild expanse with Europe's largest ice cap, Vatnajökull Glacier, thundering glacial rivers and active volcanoes.

Cultural Walk in Djúpivogur

Included

02 h 00 m

Let your imagination soar as you discuss the symbolism behind the intriguing “Eggs” sculpture with your guide
Uncover the hidden story behind the repurposed Tank and marvel at the ingenuity that has transformed it
Your exploration wouldn't be complete without a visit to a local craft museum and store to admire the craftsmanship and artistry that have been passed down for generations

4x4 Waterfalls & Bragðavellir

Optional

03 h 30 m

Visit the nature lovers haven of Bragdavellir cottage and farm where you’ll find an abundance of bird life set against picturesque views
Get to know the local farmers who keep the site in impeccable shape and also run the Bragdavellir café
Relax to the roaring sounds of rushing waterfalls and even get the rare opportunity to dismount your vehicle and walk up close to Einstigsfoss waterfall

Hoffelsjökull Glacier & Lagoon

Optional

05 h 00 m

Your first stop is Hoffellsjökull, an outlet glacier formed during the "little ice age” which played a crucial role for the local communit
The glacier tongue was also a hub for groundbreaking glaciological studies, offering invaluable insights into the mysteries of these frozen giant
Understand the effects of climate change from your guide and the indelible mark it has left on Hoffellsjökull

Jökulsárlón Cruise & Scenic Drive

Optional

08 h 30 m

Feel the exhilaration of navigating through the icy wonderland of Jökulsárlón by boat, immersing yourself in otherworldly landscapes that will leave you in awe
See some of Iceland’s finest scenery as you pass mountains with glacial tongues penetrating downward and pastoral landscapes squeezed between shifting black sands
On your way back, stop for a traditional Icelandic meal at a local restaurant and glimpse at the beautiful village of Höfn

Vatnajökull Adventure & Sightseeing

Optional

09 h 00 m

Drive through the beautiful Mýrar district and arrive at your destination of the mighty Vatnajökull ice cap, the largest outside the Arctic regions
Follow the tortuous roads on your ascent up the Skálafellsjökull Glacier as the anticipation builds with each meter you rise above sea level
Ride aboard a 4x4 jeep, a snow scooter or a Snow Truck (assigned by the local operator) and embark on this action packed adventure of a lifetime

4x4 The Valley of Waterfalls

Optional

04 h 30 m

Enjoy an off-the-beaten tracks tour to discover many of the hidden gems of East Iceland
Learn to appreciate Iceland’s rugged yet exceptionally beautiful landscape
Ride with your driver/guide on a 4x4 vehicle along a peaceful fjord before entering countryside paths to reach beautiful waterfalls

Ten million Atlantic puffins make Heimaey, a 13-km square island in the Westman Islands off southern Iceland, the largest puffin colony in the world. Despite a population of 4,000 people, puffins have even been spotted in the town of Vestmannaeyjar. The fascinating Eldheimar museum charts the story of the town’s devastation by lava from Eldfell volcano in 1973. Nearby, Vestmannaeyjar Bird Cliff is home to puffins, guillemots and razorbills.

Pompeii of the North

Included

03 h 00 m

Visit a birdwatching house in Stórhöfði, providing a wonderful opportunity to see the largest puffin colony
Drive between two incredible volcanoes, the 5,000-year-old volcano Helgafell (Holy Mountain) and the considerably younger volcano Eldfell (Fire Mountain)
Brace yourself for the untamed power of nature with a stop at the windiest place on Earth, where the average wind speed reaches 11 m/s

Caves & Islands RIB Safari

Optional

02 h 00 m

Cruise through the waters at high speeds, jetting from cave to cave and maybe even spotting some wildlife like orcas, dolphins, seals, puffins and fulmars
Visit the Ægir cave, an extremely deep and beautiful cave with basalt columns, and the Klettahellir cave, known as the roomy cliff cave with excellent acoustics
Your guide will point out unusual rock formations that have been shaped over years of interplay by the sea and volcanic activity

Volcano ATV Tour (2 persons/ATV)

Optional

02 h 00 m

Experience the thrill of driving amidst the remnants of volcanic activity as you explore this unique geological wonder
Gear up with all the essentials for your exciting ride, including a helmet with a built in communication gadget so you can listen to your guide’s stories as your tour about the island
You ride will take you to historical points of interest including the scene where Guðlaugur Friðþórsson reached land after swimming 5 km in the dark, cold sea after his trawler Hellisey VE 503 sank

Make sure there is sufficient timeto explore this diminutive but dramatic capital city. Despite its small size, you won’t be short of things to see and do. To get your bearings, take the elevator to the top of Hallgrímskirkja. This church, designed by famed Icelandic architect Gudjón Samuelsson is one of the most distinctive buildings in town. When you return to earth, visit the city’s other renowned building Harpa Concert Hall, located at the heart of Reykjavík's regenerated harbour – also the home of the Maritime Museum. Speaking of cultural spaces, tour the National Museum to learn the story of Iceland from past to present. The Reykjavík Art Museum houses an impressive contemporary collection including eye-catching pieces by Erró. And, of course, just 50 kilometres outside the city lies Thingvellir National Park, the site of Iceland’s original Viking parliament.

Iceland in Depth

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