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Geography Trips & Tours to Iceland

Iceland, the geographer’s and geologist’s ultimate playground, offers a unique geography school trip for pupils. This island country has a unique heritage and style all of its own, with a landscape rich in opportunities and challenges that will perfectly complement your group’s studies.

Take your pupils on thrilling geography visits and bear witness to rare phenomena with school trips to Iceland, from dramatic volcanic lunar landscapes and spouting geysers, to diverging plates, glaciers, and outwash plains.

If you’re considering taking a geography trip abroad, there is no better place to observe the ongoing impact of glaciation and vulcanicity: icefields, waterfalls and geothermal pools. To allow your pupils to get the most out of their Iceland geography school trip, our Field Studies Guides will add a wealth of knowledge and experience.

Sample itinerary

Our sample itinerary provides you with an idea of the visits you can cover during your trip. We can tailor-make an itinerary to support your specific learning outcomes.

Morning Afternoon Evening
1 Daytime flight & transfer with assistance to accommodation with en route visit to the Blue Lagoon Evening meal
2 South Shore Adventure: Skogafoss & Seljalandsfoss (Fluvial Systems), Reynishverfi, Dyrolaey coast (Coastal Systems), Sólheimajökull (Glaciation) Evening meal
3 The Golden Circle: Hveragerdi (Geothermal Power), Gullfoss (Fluvial Systems) Geysir Center, Thingvellir (Tectonics) Evening meal
4 Free time in Reykjavik or half day coach excursion including visit to the Perlan Centre (depending on flight time) Transfer to airport for return flight to Ireland
  • 1
  • 2
  • 3
  • 4
Morning Daytime flight & transfer with assistance to accommodation with en route visit to the Blue Lagoon
Afternoon Evening meal
Evening
Morning South Shore Adventure: Skogafoss & Seljalandsfoss (Fluvial Systems), Reynishverfi, Dyrolaey coast (Coastal Systems), Sólheimajökull (Glaciation)
Afternoon Evening meal
Evening
Morning The Golden Circle: Hveragerdi (Geothermal Power), Gullfoss (Fluvial Systems) Geysir Center, Thingvellir (Tectonics)
Afternoon Evening meal
Evening
Morning Free time in Reykjavik or half day coach excursion including visit to the Perlan Centre (depending on flight time)
Afternoon Transfer to airport for return flight to Ireland
Evening

On-tour support

On tour support includes...


Accommodation

Popular options in Iceland include:


Top visits for geography trips in Iceland

Blue Lagoon

Witness and experience the effects of geothermal activity! Take a soak in the steamy 40°C waters of the Blue Lagoon which are fed from a nearby geothermal power plant, rich in minerals such as silica and sulphur, and renowned for their healing properties. An ideal first or final day activity.

South Shore Adventure Day

Visit the 200ft high Skógafoss waterfall then continue on to Seljalandsfoss waterfall to compare differing formations. Study coastal processes and wave characteristics along the black volcanic beaches and basalt-columned cliffs of the Dyrhólaey coast. Then take the rare opportunity to see Sólheimajökull, a glacier tongue extending south from the Mýrdalsjökull Glacier, study the outwash plain, and witness glacial processes in action. A walk on the glacier with an expert guide is available at an extra charge.

Golden Circle Adventure Day

Study geothermal activity at truly spectacular locations! Visit the Hellisheidi geothermal power plant or the Ljosafoss hydroelectric power plant for a guided tour. Appreciate the interaction between tectonic and glacial influences at the spectacular Gullfoss waterfall, which greatly contrasts those waterfalls seen on our South Shore Adventure. Witness Strokkur (the most famous and active geyser in Iceland) in action, before a visit to Thingvellir National Park to walk through its dramatic canyon. This is the only place in the world where the Mid Atlantic Ridge can be observed above sea level.

 

Reykjavik

Explore the city centre and harbour area. Visit the Perlan Centre, a striking visitor centre which holds the city’s geothermal heated water supply in six huge tanks and offers excellent views over Reykjavik itself.

Westman Islands

The Westman Islands were formed by submarine volcanic eruptions and remain a very volcanically active area. Volcano Eldfell erupted in January 1973 creating a 700-foot-high mountain and causing the island’s 5,000 inhabitants to be temporarily evacuated. Groups can now take a 30 minute ferry from the brand new harbour to the largest island (Heimaey) to explore the features and perhaps see the puffins in their habitat. We also provide a coach on Heimaey for you to explore the island. (May to September only)

Thórsmörk Valley

At Thórsmörk, students will witness glacial landforms of varying scales, on which glacial retreat and environmental change are strongly evident. You will be transported across the rugged valley and proglacial streams in a purpose built off-road bus where you will see the infamous Eyjafjallajökull volcano that erupted in 2010. Visits will include a stop at Gigjokull to view the outlet glacier, the spectacular ribbon Seljalandsfoss waterfall and the rift canyon at Stakkholtsgja. (April to September only)

Thjorsa Valley

The beautiful Thjorsa Valley is in the shadow of Mount Hekla, one of Iceland’s most active volcanoes. Visit the reconstructed Saga Age Farm and excavations at Stong, and some delightful waterfalls and gorges in the area. You will head east of Hekla and drive through the lava fields, pseudo craters and agricultural areas, following Thjorsa - Iceland’s longest river. (June and July only)

Skaftafell, Jökulsárlón & South Shore

An ideal extension to your itinerary, this remote area showcases some fantastically preserved fragile features. Take a walking tour in Skaftafell National Park which lies below Europe’s largest glacier, culminating at the impressive Svartifoss black waterfall and its basalt formations. Then on to the truly spectacular Jökulsárlón, a proglacial lagoon clustered with ice flows. You’ll stay overnight in a popular Skaftafell hotel and return the next day along the south coast to see the Mýrdalsjökull, Iceland’s fourth largest glacier. Then stop off at Sólheimajökull, an 8km long 2km wide glacier tongue. Overnight stay in Skaftafell required.

Reykjavik Boat Tours

Whale Watching
Catch sight of whales, dolphins, porpoises and seabirds from the fantastic viewing areas aboard your luxury ship during this 3 hour tour (April to October only)

Northern Lights  
Sail away from the coastline of Reykjavik and see the Aurora Borealis out on the North Atlantic Ocean with beautiful mountains and the city lights in the background. A truly memorable experience (September to March only) 

 

Aurora Borealis by Coach

For groups visiting during September through to February, you may be lucky enough to see this wondrous phenomenon. We can provide coaching in the evening to take you to the best sites to observe this.

Glacier walk

What better way to learn about glaciers than to walk on one! This once in a lifetime visit provides groups with an utterly memorable and exhilarating experience, with spectacular views and learning opportunities.

Ice Caves

Visit the Ice Caves and walk INSIDE a glacier! Exploring the inside of a glacier is an incredible experience and offers a unique perspective to study glacial landscapes and processes, as well as witnessing first-hand the effects and consequences of global warming. 

Secret Lagoon

Experience the steamy hot waters of the Secret Lagoon. These natural hot springs provide a traditional and unique Icelandic experience that will leave you relaxed and rejuvenated, and ready to continue your Icelandic adventure!

 

Lava Tubing

This is a walking cave trip inside the lava tube system at Leidarendi - the ‘cave of the lamb’ named after the dead sheep found in it! It is a short walk of approximately 400 metres across an old lava field to the entrance to the cave. Groups will then descend underground and begin the experience. During this visit, groups will witness the effects of volcanic action and lava flows, and will see interesting forms of lava stalactites and different rock formations. This unique underground caving experience is one your students will never forget!

Laugarvatn Fontana Geothermal Baths

Laugarvatn Fontana Geothermal Baths is located in the centre of the Golden Circle route in Iceland. Soak in a natural pool, listen to the bubbling hot spring in the steam rooms, or for the brave - take a dip in the refreshing lake!

Perlan Planetarium

This world-class Planetarium is the first one of its kind in Iceland, built inside one of the Perlan’s hot water tanks. You will virtually travel around Iceland and discover the magic of Icelandic nature. Áróra is the first ever 8K northern lights Planetarium show. A piece of art that brought together Iceland’s best known writers, musician, and photographers. It’s a journey, through the unique landscape of Iceland, to observe Northern lights as you’ve never seen them. Taking you across time and space, to understand the science behind the mystery, and the stories we believed for millenniums. Way beyond the traditional planetarium experience.

Thingvellir Visitor Centre

The visitor centre at Thingvellir is a great addition to the Golden Circle Day, where groups can learn about the cultural and historic relevance of Thingvellir, and the fascinating geography of the area. The centre has interactive exhibits and informative displays that will inspire and educate your students.

FlyOver Iceland

FlyOver Iceland uses state-of-the-art technology to reveal some of Iceland’s most awe-inspiring and picturesque landscapes and destinations. Guests will hang suspended, feet dangling, while the ride film whisks them away on an exhilarating journey across Iceland! Special effects, including wind, mist and scents combine with the ride’s motion to create a unique and memorable experience.

Perlan - Wonders of Iceland

Volcanoes, glaciers, geothermal marvels and more come alive through cutting-edge technology and ground-breaking science. Students can see, feel, and live Iceland’s many natural wonders all in one place. The Glaciers and Ice Cave exhibition is included in this unique nature exhibition. Also, on the fourth floor of Perlan is the large observation deck, on the top of the hot water tanks, encircling the entire dome giving amazing 360° views of Reykjavík and the surrounding area.

Reykjanes Peninsula

This day takes a closer look at the 'real Iceland' away from the tourist hotspots. Visit lake Kleifvatn to look at pillow lava before stopping in the Seltún geothermal area. Later in the day you will visit Gunnuhver hot spring area and then the Stampar volcanic fissure, together with Reykjanesviti. You can also include a walk to the lava field from the recent eruption at Fagradalsfjall.

Geothermal Greenhouses

Visitors gain an insight into the processes of greenhouse horticulture, with a short and informative talk on the subject. It is quite remarkable that it should be possible to grow vegetables in this cold climate! See how it's done by creating warm Mediterranean conditions, all year round, through the long dark winter. The Atrium also includes an exhibition about the use of geothermal heating in Icelandic horticulture.

Dairy Farm

On your Golden Circle Day, take the opportunity to visit an Icelandic Dairy Farm to see how the animals are reared and how the dairy products are made. The visit also includes a tasting of some of the produce.

Lava Centre

An interactive, high-tech educational exhibition depicting volcanic activity, earthquakes and the creation of Iceland over millions of years.

UNESCO Global Geopark Visitor Centre

The Reykjanes Peninsula is a UNESCO Global Geopark. Groups can receive a 30-minute presentation about the Geopark, and also visit the Visitor Centre. The visitors' centre has an exhibition on the geology of the Reykjanes Peninsula and its unique geology. 

Lava Show

The Lava Show is a new and exciting visit, completely different from everything you will have ever experienced! It is the only show in the world where you can feel the heat from actual flowing lava in a safe environment. The show recreates a volcano eruption, similar to what Eyjafjallajökull and Katla volcanoes are famous for, by pouring molten lava into a room full of people. It is a unique opportunity to safely experience red-hot lava in close proximity, see it flowing, hear it sizzling, and feel the heat that radiates from it!


Evening activites

Dependent upon your hotel location, you could choose to:

  • Explore Reykjavik
  • Take a boat tour
  • Bowling in Reykjavik
  • Visit Selfoss Thermal Baths
  • Visit Laugardalslaug Geothermal Pools in Reykavik
  • A quiz or disco at your hotel (most hotels can provide a room for groups to use in the evenings)

 


Study themes

Physical:

  • Coastal processes
  • Fluvial systems
  • Plate tectonics
  • Glaciation/cold environments
  • Climate change
  • Environmental change

Human:

  • Energy - geothermal power 
  • Tourism 
  • Hazard management

Educational resources

FREE Educational Resource Pack 
We understand that you want a study visit that delivers the curriculum. To help you achieve this, our free Iceland Educational Resource Pack – developed by experienced geography teachers - contains a wealth of highly relevant information for you to use before, during and after your tour.

You’ll be able to use its contents as a pre-visit planning aid, print off full-colour pupil activity sheets for your group to use at each site whilst away, or even refer to its contents post-visit to assist with case study completion.

 


Transport

We offer flights from a variety of departure airports and we’ll work with you to plan your route at the best value possible.

Flight


Giving you full support throughout

Before your tour

  • Your own dedicated NST contact
  • Bespoke tour itineraries
  • Unrivalled local knowledge & expertise
  • Curriculum linked visit programmes
  • Great value for money - no hidden costs
  • Free group leader inspection visits
  • Risk assessment guidance
  • Safety assured, transport, accommodation and visits

Whilst you're away

  • Free educational resources
  • Group-friendly accommodation
  • Exceptional standards of coaching
  • On-tour support from our reps on the ground
  • Support & assistance from our specialists guides throughout your tour
  • 24/7 support just a call away
  • Extensive group travel insurance

On your return

  • Priority rebooking services
  • Rewarding your loyalty with our reward scheme
  • You say, we listen - we're committed to continuously improving our tours
  • School travel company of choice since 1996