Discover Iceland’s majestic shores and experience the breathtaking beauty and wealth of wildlife this island has to offer aboard a Viking cruise.
Take an epic journey into nature to discover this stunning country enjoying a once in a lifetime experience with as much or as little excitement as guests can manage!
As visitors explore magical Iceland, they have the chance to encounter unparalleled natural beauty, witness cascading waterfalls amid pristine fjord landscapes and observe the wealth of wildlife, from puffins to whales, the gentle giants of the sea.
About forty two percent, or twelve to fifteen species of the world’s known whale species call these waters home.
An eight-day cruise aboard Viking leaves and returns to Reykjavík, the world’s northernmost capital city yet captures the distinctive feel of a fishing village.
The country is lauded as one of the cleanest and most civilized committed to finding the perfect balance between day-to-day living and harnessing its natural resources with eco-friendly practices.
For those who favour equine pursuits, there is nowhere more exciting to explore on horseback than the volcanic landscape of the Hafnarfjörður while riding a purebred Icelandic horse.
Icelandic horses are direct descendants of their Viking ancestors; these sturdy animals are known for their sure-footedness and a calm and friendly disposition.
Guides take riders across the lava fields of Mt. Helgafell and the Kaldarsel area, or to Lake Hvaleyrarvatn.
The beauty of this rugged region, where ever-changing lava formations contrast with green meadows as the Bláfjöll Mountains loom in the distance is a joy to witness.
Guests can watch jets of steam erupting from the ground and learn about the ongoing efforts to reforest the region and trot through this idyllic countryside.
For those curious travellers, Viking offers guests the opportunity to head underground to explore the interior of a glacier during an all-day excursion to a manmade ice cave.
The journey to the breathtaking Langjökull Glacier, the second-largest glacier in Iceland; covering more than 361 sq mi, its thick ice sheet measures 1,900 feet at its deepest point is again a high point for travellers.
The guide leads the excursion descending almost 100 feet below the surface through a carved-out ice tunnel, to witness the ice transform from white to rich blue.
It is a chance to learn about glaciology and the effects of climate change on the glaciers and marvel at the unique subterranean scenery.
This excursion also includes a visit to the powerful hot springs at Deildartunguhver, photo stops at the picturesque waterfalls of Hraunfoss and Barnafoss, and a delicious lunch at a local restaurant.
Those who love to explore thermal pools can enjoy the warmth of a rejuvenating oceanside geothermal lagoon during a visit to the Sky Lagoon.
This offers a chance to unwind and enjoy breathtaking views of the North Atlantic while exploring the spa or partaking in the Ritual, a unique seven-step experience.
Begin with an immune system-stimulating dip in the cold plunge, then visit the sauna, letting the heat open pores, remove toxins and cleanse the skin. Slowly stroll through the cold fog-mist space, balancing out the heat of the sauna, breathing deeply and refreshing the senses. Guests are then invited to apply the lagoon’s signature body scrub to exfoliate the skin before entering the steam sauna to maximize its healing benefits.
For those with energy and an abundance of curiosity take the opportunity to cycle through stunning scenery and explore the vast fjord by bicycle Navigate the streets of Isafjördur, past classic Icelandic homes and scenes of local life.
Cycle alongside the fjord and marvel at the steep walls of the mountains that cloister this area. Enjoy a glimpse of Iceland’s quintessential tundra landscape and a beautiful waterfall into the Tungudalur valley before a stop at a local brewery for a refreshment and a small snack.
Water lovers will have the chance to paddle through calm waters to discover the area’s natural beauty by kayak. This region has earned its reputation as the kayaking centre of Iceland. Experience the nature and the beauty of the surroundings and a delight for nature fans and birdwatchers is the opportunity to witness some of Iceland’s wildlife up close or for a chance to watch the seals as their heads bob playfully in the water.
Unwind in the hot waters of Lake Urridavatn during a rejuvenating visit to the Vök Baths in a private setting. Centuries ago, the residents who lived around the lake discovered that certain spots, known as vöks, or ice-free holes, refused to ice over during the Arctic winters due to underground geothermal activity.
Viking guests can relax in one of the two lakeshore pools while sipping herbal tea brewed from pure spring water. Here enjoy the steam bath and cold tunnel equipped with an inside mist shower.
For those who enjoy exploring with a bit of excitement make time to discover the desolate beauty of Heimaey’s volcanic terrain during an ATV ride.
Navigate the two-person ATV across the volcanic bedrock past the rusting remains of the fishing trawler Pelagus and enjoy the stunning views and the brutal power of nature around Eldfell.
For a different pace enjoy a narrated ride by e-scooter through scenic landscapes to a puffin colony. The e-scooters are equipped with front and rear brakes and feature a single seat providing a leisurely ride in total comfort.
At the end of each cruise guests have the chance to either end their cruise or join one of the Viking extensions which means more days and more to discover.
With extension packages travellers can enjoy additional days to explore the disembarkation city or see a new destination altogether with a choice of exciting cities.
To really explore Iceland and view the behind-the-scenes activity with expert guides, access to many locations not available to all travellers, join Viking for a truly immersive experience that brings you closer to this magnificent country and all her splendour.
To learn more about Viking’s cruises, please visit www.viking.com or phone 138 747.
