Reykjanes Peninsula and Blue Lagoon

As you fly over Iceland on your approach to Keflavik you will begin to understand what all the fuss is about. The snowy-capped mountains, deep valleys and dramatic coastlines are just a glimpse of your adventurous trip that lies ahead.

Your first stop is in the Reykjanes peninsula, the stretch of land that reaches into the Atlantic from the southwest of Iceland. This particular area is known for its geothermal activity and rugged landscape.

The famous Blue Lagoon has attracted celebrities and tourists for a number of years and it is easy to see why. The milky blue waters have a variety of health benefits and are always heated at around 37° and 40°C no matter the temperature outside, due to the geothermal power beneath the ground.

You will then travel to your overnight accommodation in the countryside, the best place to spot the northern lights if you are travelling outside of the summer months.

Golden Circle and Snorkelling at Silfra

On day 2 you will get to see some of Iceland’s most famous landmarks during your Golden Circle tour, starting with the area known as Geysir.

Geysir contains many geysers and in fact, gave all geysers their name! There is even a geyser called The Great Geysir in this area, but it erupts very infrequently. For a more regular show, we recommend Strokkur, the most recognisable geyser which erupts every 6 minutes or so.

Only a few minutes from Geysir is Gullfoss, a powerful two-tiered waterfall carved through a large valley. There are some excellent viewing points around the waterfall where your school group will be able to capture some stunning photographs.

After a busy morning, it is time to refuel. Head to Efsti Dalur farm to sample their incredible homemade ice cream and look around their quintessentially Icelandic farm.

The final stop in the classic Golden Circle itinerary is Thingvellir. A favourite with geographers and historians, Thingvellir is a national park scarred by a dramatic valley caused by the Mid-Atlantic ridge which is the boundary between two tectonic plates. The landscape here is stunning and it has great significance with the Icelandic people as it is where their first parliament was founded in the year 930. You will also find some stunning waterfalls and incredible panoramas around the park.

Once you have seen Thingvellir and the Mid-Atlantic Ridge from the surface it is time to zip up your wet suits and see it from a new angle. You’ll spot some lunar rock formations in the clear water and by snorkelling in the Silfra area you will be swimming between continents!

Waterfalls and adventurous glacier walk

First up on day 3 are two of the most remarkably beautiful waterfalls in Iceland.

Seljalandsfoss hangs over a cliff edge and tumbles into a pool of water, forming rainbows in the sunshine. The water has eroded the cliff face to form enough room to walk behind the waterfall and not only hear the roar of the falls but also feel the refreshing spray!

A short walk from Seljalandsfoss is its shy sibling Gljufrabui which is partially hidden by rocks. Upon closer inspection, you will see the entrance to the cavern and when inside you’ll be blown away by this waterfall as it cascades down the mossy rock walls.

Your fantasy storybook trip continues in the style of Game of Thrones as you approach the wall of ice that is Solheimajokull.

Solheimajokull glacier is best viewed close up so you will strap on your crampons and with ice pick in hand climb the glacier under the watch of your experienced guide.

Using ropes to pass through deep crevasses, ice tunnels and other ice features, the walk offers a great sense of adventure combined with a deep appreciation for the glacier.

Finally, you will journey towards the coastline to marvel at the rock formations formed by the force of the Atlantic at Dyrholaey.

Black beaches, Skogafoss, Horse Riding and Lava Tube Caving

Your first stop on your last full day in Iceland will be to one of the most iconic Icelandic landscapes, the black beaches.

The black beaches at Reynisfjara are ideal for any students interested in geology as not only are there fascinating rock formations in the choppy sea but also the cliffs are lined with unusual basalt columns.

Your school group will then reach Skogafoss, another Icelandic must-see stop. This 60m waterfall can be viewed from the ground or for the energetic amongst the group, from above via the stairs to the right of the falls.

Your students are then off to meet some of Iceland’s most unique inhabitants, Icelandic Horses! These hardy but small horses have a unique fifth gait which you will find out about in your horse riding activity.

Next, your students will get a real sense of adventure in Lava Tube Caving. The students will explore the hidden world in and under the great lava field located in the Blue Mountains, only 25km from Fagradalsfjall.