Expedition Itinerary
Our Expedition begins in Reykjavik, where we meet at the historic Hotel Borg, a landmark in the heart of the city. Over the coming days, this exclusive Explora itinerary will lead you through a captivating tapestry of volcanic landscape, majestic glaciers, and breathtaking vistas of the Icelandic Highlands. Immerse yourself in the extraordinary beauty of Iceland, culminating with a visit to the iconic Sky Lagoon on the last day. Throughout this adventure, the expert Explora team and our dedicated, certified staff will be at your side, ensuring a seamless and unforgettable experience.
Day 1: The Adventure Begins
Your journey begins with a check-in at the iconic Hotel Borg, a historic landmark nestled in the heart of Reykjavik. Enjoy an evening aperitif as you meet your fellow travelers and our experienced team. After a detailed briefing on the upcoming adventure, prepare to embark on your expedition early the next morning.
Accommodation: Hotel Borg
Day 2: The Thorsmork Valley
Travel south to the stunning Thorsmork Valley and marvel at hanging glaciers cascading from the Eyjafjallajokull Volcano, accompanied by breathtaking waterfalls and one of Iceland’s most remarkable ecosystems. In addition to the day’s curated Explorations, your journey includes a twoand-a-half-hour drive with a scenic stop along the way. Later, arrive at your cozy hotel and enjoy a relaxing evening.
Accommodation: Hotel Skálakot
The journey includes a 2.5-hour drive with a scenic stop along the way. Depending on weather conditions and the physical abilities of the group, we’ll choose from four carefully crafted exploration options.
Day 3: Southern Highlands
Experience profound solitude as we venture beyond the typical tourist paths. Discover dramatic Tindfjall Mountain and one of the country’s deepest canyons. Marvel at the otherworldly landscapes surrounding Maelifell Mountain and Myrdalsjokull Glacier, which conceals the Katla Volcano beneath its icy surface. Enjoy curated Explorations as well as scenic stops during your four-hour drive today. For more adventurous spirits, a challenging 10-kilometer (6.2-mile) hike to the Strutslaug Hot Springs offers a rewarding experience.
Accommodation: Hotel Hrífunes
Choose from five carefully curated exploration options, tailored to the weather and the physical abilities of all travelers. For the most adventurous spirits, a challenging 10-kilometer (6.2-mile) hike to the Strútslaug Hot Springs offers a rewarding experience. Total time on drive: 4 hours
Day 4: Vatnajökull Adventure
Vatnajökull, Europe’s largest ice cap, offers a spectacular display of hanging glaciers, dramatic canyons, and unique waterfalls. Experience the glaciers with guided hikes in the surrounding canyons, admiring breathtaking views from multiple vantage points, or even walking on the ice for an unforgettable adventure. Scenic views during the day’s two-and-ahalf-hour drive complete your discovery. Later, return to your charming hotel to rest and relax.
Accommodation: Hotel Hrífunes
The journey includes a 2.5-hour drive with a scenic stop along the way. We will choose from five carefully crafted exploration options, taking into account the weather, the physical abilities of our travelers, and their preferred way to experience the glaciers.
Day 5: Into the Highlands
Today, return to the Highlands to explore the aweinspiring Lakagígar region, the volcanic fissure responsible for the devastating European famine of 1783. This extraordinary day features the stunning Langisjor Lake, northern edge of the Vatnajokull ice cap, and the pristine beauty of the Fjallabak Nature Reserve. In addition, enjoy several scenic stops during the day’s three-and-a-half-hour drive.
Accommodation: Highlands Center Hotel
During the day the drive will take approximately 3.5 hours, with at least three scenic stops along the way. We will choose from five carefully crafted exploration options, tailored to the weather and the physical abilities of our travelers.
Day 6: Landmannalaugar
Begin the day by heading south to Landmannalaugar. Nestled within the Fjallabak Nature Reserve, this kaleidoscopic landscape is renowned for some of Iceland’s most iconic hiking trails. Today’s hikes are the most challenging of our journey, promising breathtaking discoveries and views. Inside the Fjallabak Nature Reserve, choose from four hiking options ranging from 1.5 miles (2.5 kilometers) to 12.4 miles (20 kilometers). Today’s three-hour drive reveals majestic scenery and stops along the way. Return to your hotel after an invigorating day.
Accommodation: Highlands Center Hotel
The drive will take approximately 3 hours, with three scenic stops along the way. Inside the Fjallabak Nature Reserve, we’ll choose from four hiking options ranging from 2.5 kilometers (1.5 miles) to 20 kilometers (12.4 miles).
Day 7: Valleys, Craters and Sky Lagoon
Return to Reykjavik with a visit to two stunning craters, followed by a scenic drive through the picturesque Thjorsardalur Valley. The drive will take approximately two-and-a-half hours, including a stop at three of the valley’s most beautiful waterfalls. In the afternoon, unwind with a relaxing soak in the geothermal waters of Sky Lagoon, a perfect way to rejuvenate after an incredible adventure. In the evening, gather in Reykjavik with your fellow travelers for a final dinner, reminiscing about the unforgettable moments of your Expedition.
Accommodation: Borg Hotel
The drive will take approximately 2.5 hours, including a stop at three of the valley’s most beautiful waterfalls.
Day 8 -Returning Home
Check-out is at 10:00 am and we will transport you back to the Airport.
