National Geographic - Lindblad Expeditions presents an exclusive 8-day maritime journey aboard the National Geographic Explorer, offering an extraordinary insight into the renowned and exceptional natural splendours of Iceland. Commencing and culminating in Reykjavík, this expedition invites adventurers to dive into Iceland's multifaceted landscape, including its breathtaking fjords, striking black-sand beaches, remote cascading waterfalls, and lush forest-filled canyons. Participants have the opportunity to engage with Iceland's rich cultural heritage through local interactions, providing a deep appreciation of timeless traditions and everyday life on this multifaceted island.
Throughout the journey, explorers will marvel at the abundant wildlife, from the captivating Atlantic puffins to elegant Arctic terns, and immerse themselves in the enchanting environment of an ethereal glacier lagoon. Key highlights include experiencing the tranquil beauty of Djúpivogur—recognised for its deliberate, relaxed pace of life—and witnessing the historic seafaring culture of Húsavík, famed as the birthplace of Iceland's whale watching industry. This expedition also highlights Heimaey Island’s remarkable resilience to volcanic activity. With meticulously planned voyages that blend natural charm with cultural allure, this Icelandic journey promises an enriching and memorable exploration.
Reykjavík, Iceland: Sprawling Reykjavík, the nation's nerve centre and government seat, is home to half the island's population. Nestled by a bay overlooked by the proud Mt. Esja, Reykjavík presents a colourful sight with its concrete houses painted in light hues and topped by vibrant red, blue, and green roofs. In stark contrast to the almost treeless countryside, Reykjavík benefits from an abundance of tall, native birches, rowans, and willows, alongside imported aspen, pines, and spruces. The city's name derives from the Icelandic words for smoke, 'reykur', and bay, 'vík', referencing Norseman Ingólfur Arnarson's discovery of the area in AD 874. Today, most houses in Reykjavík flaunt natural heating courtesy of nearby hot springs, which eliminate air pollution albeit leaving a sulphurous tinge in the water. Prices match major European cities, making a Reykjavík City Card a practical option. Available at the Tourist Information Centre or the Reykjavík Youth Hostel, these cards provide unlimited bus usage and entry to several attractions like the city's pools, museums, and the Family Park and Zoo. Even without the card, purchasing admission to one city art museum grants free same-day entry to the others.
Westfjords, Iceland: The Westfjords region, known for its dramatic coastline, offers a serene escape with its majestic fjords cutting deep into steep cliffs. This remote area houses quaint fishing villages and diverse wildlife, including puffins and seals. Travellers can immerse themselves in the enchanting landscapes, explore hidden coves, or take a leisurely hike along the rugged terrain.
Siglufjørdur - Høfn, Iceland: Situated in a narrow fjord and surrounded by towering mountains, Siglufjørdur was once the thriving heart of Iceland's herring industry. Today, it charms visitors with its echo of past glories preserved at the Herring Era Museum. Høfn, a quaint harbour town, serves as the ideal gateway for embarking on awe-inspiring glacier adventures, with Vatnajökull National Park just a stone's throw away.
Husavik, Iceland: The town of Húsavík lies beneath Húsavíkurfjall mountain on the eastern shore of Skjálfandi Bay. Surrounded by rich vegetation and teeming with birdlife, the nearby Lake Botnsvatn is a favoured spot for picnics and hikes. The harbour, once buzzing with a fishing fleet, now captivates with its world-renowned whale watching tours, offering a glimpse of these majestic creatures. Húsavík also boasts a fascinating whale museum by the harbour and is considered Iceland's oldest settlement, with stories tracing back to the winter spent by Swedish explorer Gardar Svavarsson in 870 AD.
Borgarfjørdur Eystri, Iceland: Nestled in a remote fjord, Borgarfjørdur Eystri is renowned for its stunning landscapes and vibrant birdlife, including puffins during the summer months. The area is a haven for hikers, offering trails that lead through rolling hills and colourful rhyolite mountains. Its folklore heritage and charming local culture provide a unique glimpse into Icelandic traditions.
Djúpivogur, Iceland: Djúpivogur may be enveloped by pulse-raising volcanic scenery and extraordinary wildlife, set against a dramatic fjord, but it has embraced the philosophy of slow living as a 'Cittaslow' or Slow City. Visitors are encouraged to take a leisurely approach to exploration, enjoying the area's natural beauty, rich folklore, and delicious local cuisine as they savour the tranquillity of this unique location.
Heimaey Island, Iceland: Strolling through Heimaey’s idyllic streets of white wooden houses, it's hard to imagine that a cataclysmic volcanic eruption once threatened this island. Yet, the community's perseverance in stopping the lava's advance saved their fishing industry and preserved the harbour. Today, it offers breathtaking views of towering volcanic rock formations rising from the ocean and the chance to reflect on the resilience of this island community.
Reykjavík, Iceland: Once more, Reykjavík enchants with its vibrant cultural scene and natural beauty framed by Mt. Esja's ever-changing hues. The city's geothermal energy keeps it smoke-free and eco-friendly, and the Reykjavík City Card offers a seamless way to explore with its unlimited transport and attraction entry. Whether revisiting the captivating museums or simply wandering through the picturesque streets, Reykjavík provides a fitting conclusion to an unforgettable expedition holiday in Iceland.
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