4-Nights North Iceland's Sensational Diamond Circle - Tailormade Journeys — CALL

Itinerary Details

1 Arrive Akureyri, Iceland

Set on the shores of the Eyjafjordur, Akureyri has a small-town feel despite its population. Cozy cafes and the world’s northernmost botanic garden offer peaceful respite, though the allure of the great outdoors is undeniable. Serving as a gateway to wilder realms, Akureyri is a home base for whale-watching excursions from Husavik, expeditions to the awe-inspiring Askja volcano and explorations of glacially and volcanically sculpted Vatnajokull National Park.

Rise to see cascades of Godafoss Waterfall, a symbol of Iceland’s Christian embrace. Husavik, the whale capital, is where Viking Gardar Svavarsson first settled Iceland. In Vatnajökull National Park, horseshoe-shaped Asbyrgi Canyon is said to bear the mark of Odin’s eight-legged horse, Sleipnir. Dettifoss, a mighty waterfall, plunges 148 feet into the abyss. Meanwhile, Krafla Mountain overlooks a geothermal power station, with Viti crater offering a glimpse into its fiery heart. Nearby, Hverir is a vibrant geothermal wonderland that erupts with bubbling mud pots and steaming vents. Lake Myvatn (“Midge Lake”) is another creation of volcanic forces, nestled amid a surreal landscape of lava formations. A haven for birdwatchers, the lake teems with activity, especially during summer.

Askja, a large volcanic caldera renowned for its rugged beauty and remote location, is part of Vatnajökull National Park. Within, picturesque Lake Oskjuvatn — among Iceland’s deepest — was formed by a powerful volcanic eruption generations ago. Nearby is smaller, warm crater Lake Viti, known for its striking turquoise color and geothermal activity. See firsthand Askja’s barren, moon-like landscape, which is so otherworldly NASA used it to train astronauts for lunar missions. Between the Askja volcanic system and Vatnajokull Glacier lies the vast lava field of Holuhraun, created by a massive eruption in 2014. Notable sights along the way include Hrafnabjargarfoss Waterfall and Aldeyjarfoss, its falls framed by basalt columns. The road then takes you to Skutustathir, home to crater-like formations created when hot lava met wetlands and marshes.

Dimmuborgir — the Black Fortress — is a dramatic lava expanse amid geothermal landscapes. An Icelandic farm offers an immersive blend of stunning nature, sustainable living and a firsthand taste of farm-produced delights. Nestled in Iceland’s breathtaking landscapes, this family-run venture — a peaceful retreat — features a petting zoo and artisanal goat cheese production.