Adult Expedition | Reykjavik, Iceland

June 25 - 30, 2024 (depart the US on June 24th, arriving in Iceland on the 25th)

 Reykjavik, the golden circle & southern Iceland

Come join us as we explore Iceland's diverse and spectacular natural environment while celebrating Nordic culture. In this expedition, we will be exploring the most stunning and awe-inspiring landscapes along Iceland’s rugged southern coast along with the infamous Golden Circle while comfortably based out of the northernmost capital of the world- Reykjavik. Join us as we celebrate new friendships and a chance to see an enchanting part of the world alongside other amazing adventurers just like you — determined to enjoy the most each day has to offer. (And in Iceland where the sun doesn’t set in the summer, there’s quite a bit to time to enjoy!)

On the Golden Circle we will experience Iceland’s geological wonders including the Strokkur Geysir Geothermal Area, the infamous Gullfoss Waterfall and Þingvellir National Park — where two continents are actively splitting apart. Next, we traverse along the southern coast bearing witness to glaciers, volcanoes, volcanic islands, geothermal hotspots including a thermal river you can soak in, glacial rivers, green pastures, marshes, lakes, undisturbed highlands, basalt columns, puffins, Icelandic horses, and black sand beaches. Living in Reykjavik allows us to recharge in the community hot springs each day where the locals all congregate to share local news and enjoy a rejuvenating soak in the natural hot spring water. We will enjoy daily opportunities to stroll through the many cultural shops, cafes, museums, and embrace all that it means to be Icelandic. We return each evening to relax in our very own sun room of our oceanfront home with our own private hot tub and steam room. The expedition culminates in a visit to the famous Sky Lagoon Spa in the village of Kopavogur outside Reykjavik.

THIS EXPEDITION IS FOR YOU IF:

• You are ready for some FUN!

• You are excited to EXPLORE and share the experience with amazing humans.

• You’re CURIOUS to experience new cultures and local cuisine.

• You ENJOY laughing, relaxing, and waking up to a beautiful view of the Icelandic countryside every day.

• WATERFALLS, GLACIERS, PUFFINS, VOLCANOES and HOT SPRINGS are your jam.

• You are READY to meet other like-minded and fun humans.

       What You Can Expect:

We keep our trips small and intimate and become close friends by the end of the trip. This adventure is a choose your own adventure, meaning participants can individually choose their level of activity each day. Most hikes are easy to moderate level with a balance between group exploration and individual time. Each evening ends with a briefing on the upcoming events allowing for participants to provide feedback and properly prep for the next adventure to come.

We will be navigating the country by private van, enjoying our own pace as we cruise from one breathtaking location to the next. Some sites require only a short walk while others provide the opportunity for longer adventures. Those preferring time in Reykjavik or the waterfront rather than hiking on longer treks always have the option to do so. Breakfast is enjoyed at home each day with lunches prepared at the house between outings to be enjoyed while out exploring or substitute in a local eatery along the way. Dinners are adventures on their own to be enjoyed with the group in the many restaurants Reykjavik has to share or prepared in our cozy family kitchen. Evenings are spent in our own personal hot tub, relaxing outside under the late evening Icelandic sun or out exploring in town. Fall asleep after a warm cup of tea and plenty of relaxing conversations amongst your new adventuring friends.

Experience the Four Elements:

Icelandic Sites we will visit

Reykjadalur Valley: this breathtaking valley is a highlight of southern Iceland. The valley has numerous steam vents, boiling mud pots, a geothermal river, breathtaking views, and numerous back county trails.  Enjoy bathing in the Reykjadalur thermal river. The further you swim up the warmer it gets! 

Thingvellir National Park: the most visited national park in Iceland as it is the site where the two continents are splitting apart and is also the backdrop for scenes from Game of Thrones. We will enjoy a private tour from a local historian and walk the historic sites where the government of Iceland was established.

Skogafoss: is one of Iceland’s biggest and most beautiful waterfalls found among the cliffs of the southern coastline. Climb the stairs to the very top for a bird’s eye view of the southern coast or enjoy the waterfall’s spray from the base.

Seljalandsfoss: is a spectacular waterfall you can actually hike behind. It easily lends itself to dramatic pictures. Just make sure to bring a rain jacket! It is one of Iceland’s most visited and photographed waterfalls. It is found along the base of the infamous volcano, Eyjafjallajökull, which kept all flights aground in 2010. 

Reykjavik: the cultural and economic hub of Iceland is located in the southwestern peninsula of the island. We will enjoy plenty of time here with access to local businesses, restaurants, religious places of worship, cultural centers, and seasonal festivals. 

Turf Houses: traditional turf houses made of wood, stone are scattered around the coastline and countryside. We will explore the turf homes and experience what life was all about in traditional Iceland.

Kerid Crater: Found in the Grímsnes region of the Golden Circle this dramatic crater is made up of red volcanic rock. Enjoy hiking the trail among the upper or lower rim or take the trail to the neighboring craters.

Geysir hot spring and Strokkur: This dramatic exploding geysir sits along the golden circle. You can also find vibrantly colored hot springs and boiling mud pots.  

Gulfoss: The largest waterfall in Europe (by volume) the force, sound and mist of Gulfoss is mesmerizing. It also makes a perfect stop while exploring the Golden Circle.  

The Sky Lagoon: Iceland is known everywhere around the world for it’s incredible hot spring spas and often finds itself atop most people’s bucket lists. Enjoy hours soaking in the geothermal waters or choose to immerse yourself in an optional add-on massage!

Black Sand Beach and Puffins: Found along the south coast of Iceland the expansive black sand beach is also the site of basalt column cliffs, caves as well as nesting puffins.

Sólheimajökull Glacier: Take a short hike up to the base of one of Iceland’s most dramatic glaciers. Experience the immense size of this glacier and feel the cool breeze coming off the glacial river.

Icelandic Horses: The Icelandic horse, nearly pony size, came to Iceland along with the first settlers 1100 year ago. They are a prized and protected horse as they have been bred in isolation for the past millennium.

Reykjavik’s Community Thermal Pools: Reykjavik has many community pools to enjoy that have numerous hot tubs are varying temperatures, lap pools, and ice baths.

Our Housing in Iceland

The group will enjoy our own private Icelandic Cabin in the Icelandic countryside outside the village of Selfoss, 45 minutes from the city center of Reykjavik. The house consists of three bedrooms with two twin beds in each room, 1 room with a king size bed for a couple or traveling pair, 1 bathroom (the norm in Iceland) and our very own private hot tub.

travel Costs: $2,750

What is included:

This fee covers all lodging, in-country transportation including airport pickup and drop off, daily breakfasts/lunches, 3 evening meals, a visit to the Sky Lagoon Spa outside Reykjavik, all activities and park fees, two experienced and energetic guides, and 24/hr support before/during and after your expedition.

What is not included:

International airfare from the U.S. to Iceland, 3 evening meals out to enjoy local cuisine of your choice, souvenirs and gratuities.

A note on airfare:

We are more than happy to help you book your flight. Flights typically start around $600 depending on your departure location. We will meet you at the Keflavik International Airport (airport code KEF) with our company shirt on and a sign that says Global Treks to whisk you to your new Icelandic home away from home. Please note, most flights from the US depart the previous night and land the following morning. For this trip, please plan on arriving the MORNING of June 25th (meaning you’ll likely depart the night of the 24th from the US). You can depart anytime on the 30th as the shuttle provides airport service in the morning.

CHECK OUT SOME OF OUR PAST GLOBAL TREKS MAGIC:

Meet your Expedition Guide:

Jen Herdina, co-founder of global treks and adventures

Jen has been adventuring around the world with clients of all ages since 2006. Jen’s a paramedic, business owner, college instructor, sailboat captain, community creator and seeker of connections. After 46 countries and sailing more than a few seas, Jen has happily found her home away from home in the gorgeous landscapes of Iceland. Jen brings almost a decade of guiding experience in Iceland and is stoked to share the many hidden gems throughout the country. Come share a week of community-building, adventure, relaxation and exhilaration as we dive into the magical land of fire and ice!