Reykjavik’s Golden Circle & Blue Lagoon Pre-Voyage Extension

Day 1 - Keflavik/Reykjavik

After an early-morning arrival at Iceland’s Keflavik airport we make the classic introduction to Iceland with a visit to the famous Blue Lagoon thermal baths. Whether you choose to enjoy the surreal bath and spa facilities or just stroll around the fascinating environs, the Blue Lagoon is an essential part of any visit to Iceland. It is also efficiently and conveniently designed to allow for bathing and easy changing. We’ll wash off our overnight flights and be dazzled by Iceland’s living landscape before driving to the capital city of Reykjavik.

We'll arrive at our hotel in the heart of the city and lunch will be served. After that we will check into our rooms to relax and unpack. The rest of the afternoon is devoted to exploring the northernmost capital city of Reykjavik, with a guided introduction on foot before taking some time to explore on your own. We’ll have dinner together in Reykjavik. (L,D)

Day 2 - The Golden Circle/Embark Ship

The Golden Circle is the name given to the driving route in southwest Iceland that captures some of the country’s most unique and impressive sites. We’ll get an early start and leave for a full day that starts with a visit to Geysir, site of the spouting water vent for which the phenomenon is named. While the original is now inactive, the area is alive with boiling and bubbling pools, and the neighboring geyser, “Strokkur,” is sure to put on a show.

Continue on for a short walk to Gullfoss, a spectacular two-tiered waterfall. After lunch we drive to Thingvellir National Park, a valley where one can clearly see the two oceanic plates splitting Europe and North America. Not only is Thingvellir an impressive geological landscape, it is also the site of the famous Icelandic “ting,” an annual gathering of the Icelandic Viking chiefs, which started in the 10th century. Return to Reykjavik and embark ship. (B,L,D)

Cost Includes:

Hotel accommodations, meals as indicated, transfers, sightseeing, entrance fees at the Blue Lagoon.

Not included:

International airfare, personal items, treatments/facilities at the Blue Lagoon.