Island Tour: Helicopters, Glaciers, and Volcanoes 16% Discount

Discover the spectacular beauty of Iceland on a remarkable circumnavigation of the island with Ultramarine. This journey offers you the opportunity to experience the impressive diversity of Icelandic landscapes, from majestic glaciers and active volcanoes to picturesque waterfalls and dramatic coastlines. During the 12-day expedition from Reykjavík, you can expect fascinating helicopter flights over remote regions, visits to two national parks, and the chance to cross the Arctic Circle. Enjoy the rich wildlife, including the iconic puffins, and be enchanted by the unique culture and history of Iceland. This journey promises an extraordinary adventure full of impressive experiences.
 

Itinerary: Iceland Circumnavigation: Helicopters, Glaciers and Volcanoes

 
Day 1: Arrive in Iceland
Arrive at the international airport in Keflavik, where your Icelandic adventure begins. From here, you will transfer independently to your included hotel in Reykjavik, a journey that takes approximately 40 minutes. As you make your way to the city, take in the unique landscapes that Iceland is renowned for. Once you arrive in Reykjavik, depending on the time of your arrival, you might feel the urge to start exploring this captivating capital. Reykjavik is a city that seamlessly blends the old with the new, offering a rich tapestry of cultural and historical landmarks. Many of these attractions are conveniently located near the walkable city center, making it easy to immerse yourself in the local culture and history. Whether you choose to stroll through the charming streets, visit a museum, or simply enjoy the vibrant atmosphere, Reykjavik promises a memorable start to your Icelandic journey.
 
Day 2: Embark on Ultramarine
Begin your day with a delightful complimentary breakfast at the hotel, setting a pleasant tone for the adventures ahead. The morning is yours to savor, offering a perfect opportunity to explore the vibrant city of Reykjavik at your own pace. Whether you choose to wander through its charming streets, visit local attractions, or simply soak in the unique atmosphere, the city has much to offer. As lunchtime approaches, indulge in a meal of your choice at one of the many inviting eateries scattered throughout the city. With your appetite satisfied and your curiosity piqued, make your way back to the hotel in time for the scheduled afternoon transfer. The bus will whisk you away to the port, where the next chapter of your journey awaits aboard the Ultramarine.
 
Day 3: The West-Snaefellsnes Peninsula: Dramatic Landscapes
The picturesque Snaefellsnes Peninsula in western Iceland is known for its diverse landscapes: glaciers, mountains, lava fields, geothermal areas, and a rugged and beautifully shaped coastline. Often referred to as "Miniature Iceland" or "Iceland in Miniature," the Snaefellsnes Peninsula, though not extensive, is a microcosm of all the natural wonders and dramatic landscapes that can be seen throughout Iceland. This exciting day begins with the disembarkation of guests from the Ultramarine and continues with a bus journey—accompanied by local guides and members of our expedition team—to visit the solitary Kirkjufell ("Church Mountain"), which rises as a dramatic backdrop for the Kirkjufellsfoss waterfall—undoubtedly the most photographed location in all of Iceland. Kirkjufell might be particularly familiar to fans of "Game of Thrones," as the mountain appeared as one of the landmarks beyond the "Wall." The tour of the peninsula might also include visits to some of the tiny, beautiful villages that line the peninsula. The majority of these small settlements, the most notable of which are Arnarstapi, Grundarfjörður, and Stykkishólmur, are located on the north side of the peninsula, where the communities rely on the rich fishing grounds of the Breiðafjörður Bay. Tourism and fishing drive the local economy. You will also have the opportunity to stretch your legs on a short walk along a rugged but not demanding footpath along the coastal cliffs, offering views of the Arnarstapi rock arch, also known as Gatklettur, formed from massive basalt columns. A section of this short path leads through a lava field, a typical Icelandic experience. Other highlights of today's excursion include a visit to the Bjarnarhöfn Shark Museum and an Icelandic tasting experience. One cannot leave Iceland without trying Hakarl (fermented shark).
 
Day 4 to 6: The Westfjords: Hidden gem of Iceland
Every region of Iceland has its own appeal for nature lovers, bird watchers, and history enthusiasts, and the rarely visited Westfjords, where the land meets the sea in a dramatic way, are no exception. Often referred to as "Iceland's best-kept secret," this rugged peninsula at the remote northwestern tip of the country is rich in fjords and mountains that gently slope down to the sea. We will spend our time exploring the fjords and coasts of Iceland's oldest region, enjoying the kaleidoscope of diverse land and seascapes. Here, plunging cliffs and roaring waterfalls alternate with colorful beaches, and gentle green hills lead up to high moors dotted with rocky outcrops, small lakes, and occasionally grazing, shaggy Icelandic sheep or ponies in the distance. Some modest outposts of civilization, in the form of small fishing communities along the fjords and coasts of the Denmark Strait, look out over the mighty Atlantic and preserve a maritime heritage that dates back to the Viking Age. The Westfjords are the least developed parts of Iceland's coastal areas and consequently the wildest. Guests will explore this area on Zodiac cruises and guided landings in pristine wilderness areas, where they can hike and discover on foot. We also hope to visit remote settlements like the island farm on Vigur and observe the thousands of seabirds—including puffins, guillemots, fulmars, and razorbills—at Látrabjarg, one of Europe's largest bird cliffs. This is a highly sought-after destination for bird watchers and ornithologists from around the world. We will also visit the local museum in Hnjótur, which showcases the history of everyday life in the Westfjords. If weather conditions are favorable, we plan to take guests on a helicopter sightseeing flight during our time in the Westfjords.
 
Day 7 & 8: Northern Iceland (Norourland): Waterfalls, lava fields, and geothermal areas
Iceland is truly a land of contrasts. This becomes increasingly evident over the next two days as our coach bus follows the iconic Diamond Circle route. You’ll soon learn that the north of Iceland, with its long valleys and peninsulas, is interspersed with mountains, lava fields, and smooth hills carved out over time by the unceasing river flow. Many first-time visitors to the region are surprised to discover that the deep and numerous indentations along the northern coasts are alternately lush with vegetation—or completely barren. Your sense of awe will be intensified as we approach the Arctic Circle and the captivating brilliance of the midnight sun. Prepare to be overwhelmed by some of the most impressive waterfalls in Europe: Dettifoss (unrivalled in its thunderous roar), the historic Goðafoss (also known as “Waterfall of the Gods”) and the beautiful Aldeyjarfoss (which cascades 20 meters over a wall of hexagonal basalt columns). You’ll be equally awestruck by the spectacular Kolugljúfur and Jökulsárgljúfur gorges, the rocky sea stacks of Hvítserk and Stórakarl, the horseshoe-shaped Ásbyrgi Canyon, the geological wonders of Mývatn and the lava fields of Dimmuborgir—which appeared in numerous scenes in “Game of Thrones.” Anticipate some surreal moments at Hverir, where you’ll witness bubbling mud pots and geothermal vents, and likewise at Skútustaðir, where you’ll encounter pseudocraters, volcanic features formed not by eruptions but by steam from underground. You can also fulfill a polar milestone on this voyage by crossing the Arctic Circle. In fact, you’ll get to visit the small island of Grímsey (population: 70), which is the only part of Iceland that lies within the Arctic Circle. Expect to see large populations of puffins. While the stunning scenery will prompt you to reach for your camera over and over again, we invite you to stand still for a moment, put down your device, and simply embrace the wonder of this enchanting landscape.
 
Day 9 & 10: East Iceland (Austurland): Fjords, mountains, and helicopters
East Iceland is a region that captivates with its remarkable scenery, where deep, narrow fjords carve through the landscape and tall, majestic mountains rise dramatically against the sky. This area is home to Hallormsstaðaskógur, the largest forest in the country, surrounded by lush farmlands and crisscrossed by numerous streams and mountains. The abundant fjords, with their natural harbors, have given rise to picturesque fishing villages that dot the coastline, each with its own unique charm. Around the village of Borgarfjörður Eystri, you can find Iceland’s largest rhyolite formations, which are volcanic in nature and easily accessible from inhabited areas. Along the eastern coast, impressive magma chambers filled with colorful mineral deposits await exploration. During the summer months, East Iceland transforms into a vibrant creative hub, attracting artists and young people from both Iceland and abroad. Over the course of these two days, you will have the chance to take in some of this stunning scenery from above during a heli flightseeing adventure, weather permitting, of course. Additionally, a coach excursion to Vatnajökull National Park is on the agenda, where you will encounter an abundance of glaciers, including the notable Vatnajökull, as well as volcanoes, waterfalls, and geothermal springs. The park offers a wealth of activities: you will travel to Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon, a breathtaking glacial lake; marvel at the spectacular icebergs at Jökulsárlón; spend time at the striking black sand Diamond Beach; and embark on a guided glacier hike in the Skaftafell area.
 
Day 11: The Westman Islands (Vestmannaeyjar): Nature rich archipelago
Today we embark on a journey to the Westman Islands, both by ship and Zodiac. This archipelago, consisting of 15 islands and surrounded by impressive sea cliffs, is a true paradise for bird watchers. In fact, the island group hosts one of the largest puffin colonies in the world and is also known for its rich fishing grounds and the population of whales found in the surrounding waters. The Westman Islands were formed by underwater volcanic eruptions, resulting in flat terrain unsuitable for agriculture. Instead, vast areas of rocky ground and cooled lava stretch across the landscape. Nevertheless, some rare plants thrive in the Herjólfsdalur Valley, giving the region a special botanical appeal. On our exploration tour, we will also visit Heimaey, the only inhabited island of the group, to observe the puffins at Stórhöfði. Additionally, there is a beluga sanctuary and an oceanarium, providing further insights into the fascinating wildlife of the region.
 
Day 12: Disembark in Reykjavik
On the twelfth day of your journey, you will reach Reykjavik, the vibrant capital of Iceland, thus concluding your remarkable expedition. The city, known for its unique blend of modern culture and impressive nature, offers a variety of experiences waiting to be discovered. Should you have decided to extend your stay and booked additional accommodation after the expedition, we will ensure a convenient transfer to a centrally located spot in the downtown area. This allows you to begin your exploration of Reykjavik at your leisure and enjoy the many facets of this fascinating city. Whether you choose to explore the charming streets with their colorful houses or sample the culinary delights in one of the numerous restaurants, Reykjavik has something to offer for every taste.
 
Accommodation: Your overnight stay will be in a comfortable hotel in Reykjavík, providing you with an excellent base for your explorations. Enjoy the amenities of the establishment as you prepare for the upcoming adventures. The central location allows you to conveniently reach the cultural highlights of the city.
 
Further Information: The journey lasts 12 days and starts in Reykjavík, Iceland. The expedition takes place on the ship Ultramarine. It is important to note that departures may vary between July 2026 and August 2026.
 
Discover the fascinating landscapes of Iceland on a remarkable tour that combines adventure and nature experiences. The spots for this exclusive expedition are limited, so we recommend you to act quickly and plan your personal journey. Secure your spot now for an extraordinary experience!
Show all dates