18 Night Northern Lights Explorer Cruise and Land Tour from Kirkenes

Having made your way to Kirkenes, you will be met by a representative of Aurora Expeditions and transferred to your group hotel. Upon arrival at your included hotel, please visit the Aurora Expeditions hospitality desk to collect your luggage cabin tags and to speak with the ground operations team, who may have information to share with you about pre-embarkation or to provide you with information about where to dine, withdraw cash, or purchase last-minute items from a local pharmacy or supermarket. The remainder of your time is at leisure. All meals today are at your own expense. Accommodation: Thon Hotel Kirkenes

This morning, please ensure your cabin luggage is fitted with cabin tags clearly labeled with your name and cabin number. Your luggage will be collected from your hotel and transferred directly to the port for clearance and delivered to your cabin ahead of your arrival onboard. Please keep any valuables or personal items with you throughout the day. After a leisurely breakfast, check out of your room before commencing an excursion of Kirkenes and surrounds. Transfer to the pier for embarkation in the late afternoon, when you will have time to settle into your cabin before attending the mandatory safety briefings, and enjoy the thrill of departure as we 'throw the lines' and set sail. This evening, get to know your fellow expeditioners, friendly expedition team, and crew at the Welcome Dinner to celebrate the start of a thrilling adventure.

Over the next few days, we explore parts of Norway's remarkable 1,000-kilometer (600-mile) coastline. Starting in North Cape, in the very north of the country, we make our way south, stopping in the Lofoten Islands. The spectacular northern lights are a natural phenomenon that is most commonly seen in the sky above the Arctic Circle, between autumn and early spring. As we are near North Cape in northern Norway, keep a close watch in hope of witnessing this dazzling spectacle in the night sky. The North Cape is located at a latitude of 71 10' 21" and is Europe's northernmost point. Today, you can choose from a selection of shore excursion options that best suits your interests and level of fitness. Option 1 - Behind the scenes of the seafood industry (Duration: 3 hours; Level of difficulty: Easy): During this tasteful and educational tour, you will learn all there is to know about the leading industry in Finnmark and more specifically, in North Cape municipality. Visit a local fish factory and observe their daily operations before tasting the local delicacies at one of the most scenic locations on the island. As one of the largest factories in the municipality and exporter of king crab, your host does much more than simply processing fish. Your guide will show you around the factory and tell you about the production of stockfish, klipfish, fresh fish, king crab, and less know products such as roe, liver, fish heads, and much more. Undoubtedly, a tour like this requires a seafood tasting! After your visit to the factory in Nordvagen you will be taken to a lavvo restaurant in Sarnes. As one of the most scenic areas on the island, this is the perfect location for a guided seafood tasting. You will have the opportunity to savor various delicacies and taste the national spirit of Scandinavia while your guide explains you exactly what is on your plate. Note: Make sure to wear sturdy (waterproof) footwear. Option 2 - Trek to Kirkeporten (Duration: 3 hours; Level of difficulty: Moderate-Strenuous): Just a short hike away from the village of Skarsvag, Kirkeporten boasts one of the most spectacular views on the island of Mageroya with the North Cape Horn peeking through a gated cliff. After a short drive to the village of Skarsvag make your way up the hill, and if weather permits you will have a spectacular view to the North Cape Horn. This monolith pokes out of the side of the North Cape plateau and makes it very easy to orientate oneself. Continuing down into Mefjorden, the arch-shaped cliff will slowly reveal itself. Kirkeporten is the name of a geological wonder, a fissure several meters wide in an overhanging cliff shaped as a gate. Both Kirkeporten and the North Cape cliff were places of sacrifice for the indigenous Sami population. Note: It is recommended to dress in layered clothing and wear proper hiking boots/shoes. The hike is approximately 3 kilometers (1.9 miles) on dirt and gravel path with boulders, uneven terrain, and some consistent, but gradual slopes. Visibility of sights may be affected in adverse weather conditions. Option 3 - A Panoramic Journey to the North Cape (Duration: 3 hours; Level of difficulty: Easy): Take in magnificent vistas along Europe's far northern shores and enjoy an independent visit at the splendid North Cape. This scenic drive takes you to one of Europe's most stunning natural sights. Located on the reaches of Mageroya island where the Norwegian and Barents seas meet, the cliffs of Nordkapp rise more than 305 meters (1,000 feet) from the sea waters and are topped by a large, flat plateau. Upon arrival at the North Cape Hall, you will have time to take in its spectacular vista of barren tundra. The North Cape Hall has shopping facilities, post office and a chapel, a bar, restaurants, and a cinema with a 225-degree wide-screen. There will be an audio-visual presentation of Mageroya and the North Cape, showing the magnitude of the areas breathtaking scenery during the four seasons. Adjacent to the cinema there is a Hall of Fame, with models of important events that have taken place at the North Cape Plateau, and Cave of Lights with a terrace offering a nice view of the ocean further north. There will be ample time for photo opportunities, shopping, writing, and posting cards, or simply finding yourself the perfect overlook to enjoy the breathtaking views. Note: It is recommended to dress in layered clothing and wear comfortable walking shoes. Walking at North Cape Hall is optional and involves uneven terrain to some of the sites.

Tucked above the Arctic Circle, Tromso is the main gateway to experiencing the northern lights in Norway. Today, we embark on an enchanting journey into the celestial wonders of the Arctic sky at the Tromso Science Centre. Join an immersive experience that combines the magic of the Northern Lights followed by an engaging presentation by an astronomer, providing you with insight into the captivating phenomena of the Aurora Borealis. Settle into the comfort of the planetarium's auditorium for a cinematic journey into the heart of the Arctic night. Join the award-winning photographer Ole Salomonsen on his journey through northern Norway, Finland, and Sweden in pursuit of his passion - filming the wildest and most spectacular light show the nature has to offer. Extreme Auroras is a stunning new full-dome visual, featuring the aurora in science, history, and myths. After the movie, enjoy a live presentation by the in-house astronomer, introducing them, a presentation of the few Norse constellations that are still known, and the Hunting Party story from the Sami mythology. This talk looks at the sky from a northern angle and will add new knowledge to old. At the end you will have time to explore the Science Centre's interactive displays and exhibits. Engage with hands-on activities that further enhance your understanding of the natural forces at play, making this experience both entertaining and educational. Please note: It is recommended to dress in layered clothing. Walking is up to 300 meters and is at the individual's discretion. Optional Evening Tour (paid excursions, please contact reservations for pricing & booking prior to departure) - Aurora Borealis Husky Dinner (Duration: 4.5 hours; Includes: Transport, husky cuddles and presentation, dinner; Minimum and maximum numbers apply: 15/70): Experience an incredible encounter with some of the finest husky sled-racing dogs in this corner of the world, while looking out for the captivating Northern Lights. Enjoy a scenic drive through the charming old city, over the island of Tromso, onto Sandnessund Bridge and to Kvaloya Island with peaks rising to an elevation of over 3,200 feet. Arriving at the Husky Centre, your hosts will welcome you for an eventful evening. With the center being located 25 kilometers away from Tromso and the city lights, the night sky is dark and well suited for viewing the Northern Lights. While you wait for a display of the colorful lights you will have time to cuddle with the huskies and their puppies, and learn about dog-sled racing, breeding, and animal welfare while on tour of the kennel. Your host will also give you some insight into the natural phenomenon of Aurora Borealis. In the cozy gamme-hut you will be treated to dinner around an open fire. The traditional Norwegian fish dish, bacalao, has Portuguese roots but is made from regional produce. While you enjoy your meal, your guide will keep a close eye on the sky and inform you about any Aurora activity. Please note: It is recommended to dress in layered clothing. Walking is up to 400 meters and is at the individual's discretion. Thermal suits and boots are provided at the center. Snow is possible at this time of the year. There is no guarantee the Northern Lights will be visible.

We make our way to the stunning Lofoten - meaning lynx's foot - Islands. This is a land scoured by ice and legend, the towering crags with their sharp edges, standing in silent protection of the villages below. Following lunch onboard, you can choose from a selection of shore excursion options that best suits your interests and level of fitness: Option 1 - Guided hike towards Tjeldbergtind (Duration: 3 hours; Level of difficulty: Moderate-Strenuous): Experience the pristine landscape of Lofoten on this adventurous hike to a mountain top overlooking the beautiful peaks of the archipelago. After a steep ascent your reward awaits you with a 360 panoramic view of Lofoten's iconic jagged mountains, picturesque lakes, and peaceful surroundings. You will also have a spectacular view of Svolvaer, Kabelvag, Vagan and on a clear day you can see the mainland. Note: It is recommended to dress in layered clothing and wear proper hiking boots. This hike is approximately 5 kilometers (3.1 miles) on uneven terrain with loose gravel and some steep and consistent inclines. The highest point is 367 meters (1,204 feet). Visibility of sights may be affected in adverse weather conditions. Participants should be in good physical condition. Option 2 - Taste of Lofoten (Duration: 2 hours including snacks; Level of difficulty: Easy; Limited seats available): Lofoten lies in the middle of what is often called "the world's largest dinner plate", and the unique commodities the inhabitants of Lofoten have fed on and lived from for centuries, are in large scale. Experience real flavors and an authentic gastronomic experience. On the way to the tasting venue, you will make stops to see the fish racks and the first taste of Lofoten is served. Arriving at the tasting venue the stories and delicacies from the north continue. Enjoy dried Arctic cod, salmon, Lofoten lamb, tasty cloudberries, and locally produced yoghurt made from local milk grazing right by the arctic coast. You will also get a taste of roe/caviar from Arctic cod. Note: The tour includes tastings of eight delicacies and should not be considered as a full meal. Drinks are not included, and a selection of beverages is available for purchase. Option 3 - Lofoten Fishing Village (Duration: 2 hours; Level of difficulty: Easy): Combine history and culture in the urban fishing village of Svolvaer. Join this cultural walk featuring the history of the fisheries, the historical land-owning fish buyers, and the present day sights in the center of Svolvaer. During this 3-5 kilometer (up to 3.1 miles) cultural walk you will make several stops of interest and your local guide welcomes all questions and comments to ensure the best possible experience. You will visit the most important current and historical sites and includes a tasting of stockfish. Optional Evening Tour (paid excursion, please contact reservations for pricing & booking prior to departure) - Northern Lights at Hov Farm (Duration: 6 hours; Includes: Transport, three-course meal, guided beach walk; Minimum and maximum numbers apply: 15/120): You are invited to the small village of Hov on the island of Gimsoya for a chance to appreciate Norway's scenery and hopefully get a glimpse of the famous Northern Lights. Take in lovely Norwegian vistas enroute to Hov, located approximately one hour from the pier. One of the oldest inhabited places in Lofoten, Hov is home to burial mounds and boat landings dating to the Stone Age and Viking Age. Hov also boasts a beautiful beach with fine, snow-white sand, on which you walk along on your evening hike to Hovsund Lighthouse. Arriving at Hov your host will welcome you and invite you to join them for an unforgettable evening. During the visit you will be invited into the restored barn from the 1950s. To the north there have been installed large windows that deliver beautiful views of the ocean, and the Northern lights should they appear. At the barn you will be treated to a northern lights presentation by the host as well as a delicious three-course dinner with a focus on food produced in local area. You will also be taken on a guided stroll on the beautiful Hov beach towards Hovsund Lighthouse. The coastal walk is approx. 4 kilometers and easily accessible for everyone. There is no light pollution and therefore gives you a great advantage to see the Northern Lights should they appear. Please Note: Guests should bring warm, layered clothing and good hiking/winter boots. There is no guarantee the Northern Lights will be visible.

As you traverse the scenic vistas of Lofoten, marvel at majestic mountain peaks and expansive fertile lands that once set the stage for Viking sagas. Your expedition begins in Haukland Beach, a paradisiacal haven with its pearly white sands and sapphire waters, embraced by lush greenery and towering peaks, evoking the essence of an Arctic paradise. We will have ample time to hike from Uttakleiv to Haukland Beach-a gentle stretch over hills and along the coastal path to the pristine white-sand beach. Upon reaching the Viking Museum in Borg, enjoy an exhibition showcasing archaeological discoveries and meticulous recreations of Viking dwellings, gaining a vivid understanding of the daily lives of these seafaring people a millennium ago. The museum endeavors to authentically recreate the Viking village atmosphere, complete with handicrafts, traditional buildings, and era-specific cuisine. As part of this immersive experience, you'll be treated to a soup crafted from an ancient North Norwegian recipe, prepared over an open fire-a culinary journey back in time amid the fascinating history of the Vikings. Drive through the scenic landscapes of Lofoten to Norway's renowned Sund where you will visit a blacksmith at the Fishery Museum, famous for his beautiful cormorants made of steel. The decorative wrought iron cormorants are famous all over the world, and can be found in the Pentagon, Kremlin, and in the King of Norway's palace. Continue to the village of Reine where your ship will be waiting for you. This fishing village is one of the most beautiful in Norway, and when you see it you will understand why!

Enjoy the crossing to Jan Mayen, accompanied by seabirds as we search for whales. Enjoy informative talks from the onboard team of experts, get to know your fellow expeditioners, or stay active in the gym. Remember to look to the skies at night and hope for sightings of the northern lights.

The approach to Jan Mayen is spectacular. The huge 2,277-meter (7,470-foot) Beerenberg volcano is the northernmost active volcano in the world, and it last erupted in 1985. The northern part of the island is a great place to look for whales and dolphins and contains impressive glaciers, some of which reach the sea. If the weather is favorable, we will try to land at Kvalrossbukta, a relatively sheltered bay on the island's west coast. This is one of the landings used to supply the weather station Olonkinbyen, situated on the eastern side of the island.

Our series of onboard lectures continue as sail towards the wild coast of East Greenland. You will learn about sea ice, glaciers, the unique geology found in East Greenland, and daring tales of European exploration. We are also in the prime zone to view the northern lights, so glance up to the skies and you might just see more than shimmering stars.

In the coming days, a host of choices are available to us, and depending on ice and weather conditions, the east coast of Greenland is ours to explore. The members of our experienced Expedition Team, who have made countless journeys to this area, will use their expertise to tailor our voyage to suit the day-to-day conditions. This allows us to make best use of the prevailing weather, ice conditions, and any opportunities for wildlife encounters. We generally attempt up to two landings or Zodiac excursions per day, including cruising along spectacular ice cliffs, following whales feeding near the surface. Be prepared to experience ice - and lots of it! East Greenland contains some of the Arctic's most impressive scenery. Deep fjords and narrow channels, flanked by sharp ice-clad peaks soaring up to 2,000 meters (6,562 feet), and glaciers birthing gigantic icebergs that drift throughout the fjord system, combine to create breathtaking scenes. The tundra landscape is home to musk oxen, Arctic hares, and reindeer. Throughout the area there are ancient Thule archaeological sites, historical trappers' huts, and the cabins of present-day Inuit hunters. A highlight is a visit to the Inuit village of Ittoqqortoormiit, the most isolated and northernmost permanent settlement in the region, with approximately 450 inhabitants. The community has an excellent museum, gift shop, an abundance of Greenlandic sled dogs and provides the opportunity to meet the friendly locals. Explore Scoresbysund, the world's largest fjord system and a favorite hunting ground of the local Inuit. Massive glaciers flow into this fjord, the birthplace of hundreds of majestic Greenland icebergs. It is a spectacular place that simply needs to be seen to be believed. North of Scoresbysund lie Kong Oscar and Kaiser Franz Josef fjords, two of the most significant fjord systems in Greenland, each one encompassing several smaller fjords and sounds. Thanks to the fertile volcanic soil and the surrounding mountains offering protection from strong winds, the area is rich in wildlife. You may spot everything from musk oxen and Arctic foxes to mountain hares, and even reindeer, near the fjord. Look skyward and you could catch a glimpse of birds, including the glaucous gull, black-legged kittiwake, northern fulmar, common raven, and common eider. We will attempt to enter Kaiser Franz Josef Fjord, a remote and rarely visited fjord system with countless opportunities for exploration, located within the Northeast Greenland National Park. Cruising through Kong Oscar Fjord, we marvel at the geological beauty of the mountains. We will then head south along the coast of Liverpool Land, with our passage dependent on ice conditions. We stretch our legs on hikes across tundra in search of ancient graveyards and summer villages occupied 3,000 years ago by Inuit. We may see musk oxen, Arctic hares, and reindeer grazing. The maze of calm, interconnecting waterways in this area provides excellent opportunities for sea kayaking. We will see ring seals, perhaps catch a glimpse of the elusive narwhal, and maybe even a polar bear hunting on pack ice.

Crossing the Denmark Strait to Iceland, search for whale blows and photograph the many seabirds that trail our ship in the ever-present arctic winds. The dark night skies promise more opportunities to experience the northern lights.

Picturesque Akureyri is Iceland's second-largest city outside the capital area and is blessed with a superb snow-capped mountain backdrop. Choose from a selection of shore excursions in Akureyri to best suit your interests and level of fitness. Option 1 - Godafoss, Lake Myvatn & Baths (Duration: 8 hours including lunch; Level of difficulty: Easy): Our first stop will be the Godafoss waterfall, one of the most spectacular waterfalls in Iceland. In the year 1000 the Lawspeaker Thorgeir Ljosvetningagodi made Christianity the official religion of Iceland. There is a 400-meter trail, easy and mostly flat, approximately 10 minutes to get to the main viewpoint. Next, you'll visit Lake Myvatn and explore the area. At the conclusion of lunch, re-join the motorcoach to travel to Myvatn Nature Baths. Drawing on a centuries-old tradition, the tastefully designed complex offers bathers a completely natural experience that begins with a relaxing dip amidst clouds of steam rising up from a fissure deep in the Earth's surface and ends with a luxurious swim in a pool of geothermal water drawn from depths of up to 2,500 meters / 8,200 feet. Option 2 - Godafoss, Lake Myvatn & Dimmuborgir (Duration: 8 hours including lunch; Level of difficulty: Moderate): Our first stop will be the Godafoss waterfall, one of the most spectacular waterfalls in Iceland. In the year 1000 the Lawspeaker Thorgeir Ljosvetningagodi made Christianity the official religion of Iceland. There is a 400-meter trail, easy and mostly flat, approximately 10 minutes to get to the main viewpoint. Next, you'll visit Lake Myvatn's Skutustadagigar pseudo craters. Wander the marked walking paths through the area. You can easily walk around the bowl-like landmasses or take a hike to reach the top for a magnificent view of the scenic surroundings. At the conclusion of lunch, re-join the motorcoach to travel to Dimmuborgir, an area strewn with enormous lava rocks and cliffs. The formation of these extraordinary lava cliffs and pillars are the result of molten lava flowing over a pond in the eruption of Ludentsborgir and Threngslaborgir some 2,300 years ago. The most famous of these formations is "The Church", aptly named, as this is a cave, open at both ends and with a dome-like ceiling. Option 3 - Hverfjall Volcanic Crater Hike, Dimmuborgir & Dettifoss (Duration: 8 hours including lunch; Level of difficulty: Strenuous): Our first stop will be Dimmuborgir, an area strewn with enormous lava rocks and cliffs. The formation of these extraordinary lava cliffs and pillars are the result of molten lava flowing over a pond in the eruption of Ludentsborgir and Threngslaborgir some 2,300 years ago. The most famous of these formations is "The Church", aptly named, as this is a cave, open at both ends and with a dome-like ceiling. From here walk up the steep slopes of Hverfjall Crater and around the crater's rim for otherworldly and awesome views of the surrounding landscape. This is a 9-kilometer loop trail and takes approximately 3 hours or 3.5 hours to include walking around the rim. At the conclusion of lunch, re-join the motorcoach to travel to Dettifoss waterfall in northeast Iceland which is reputed to be the most powerful waterfall in Europe. The falls are 100 meters / 328 feet wide and have a drop of 44 meters / 144 feet down to the Jokulsargljufur canyon. In the late afternoon, we reboard our vessel in Akureyri, Iceland's second-largest city outside the capital area, blessed with a superb snow-capped mountain backdrop.

Over the coming days, we explore the Westfjords region, which features outstanding landscapes with jaw-dropping views of dramatic fjords carved by ancient glaciers, sheer, table-top mountains that plunge into the sea, and pristine north Atlantic vegetation. The region features attractive towns such as Isafjordurr, surrounded by sheer mountains and steeped in history, evident in its preserved wooden architecture. Delight in its lively cultural scene and abundant outdoor activities.

Thingeyri, a quaint village nestled on a slender strip of land, graces the shores of one of Iceland's most picturesque fjords, Dyrafjordur. Much like many other coastal settlements in Iceland, the village's culture and industry have been intricately woven with the influence of the sea over centuries. The surrounding landscape is adorned with towering mountains, lending a distinctive charm to the scenic expanse that envelops Thingeyri. This idyllic region is often hailed as the "Alps of the Westfjords", especially the highland area nestled between the majestic fjords of Dyrafjordur and Arnarfjordur. The beauty of Thingeyri lies not only in its coastal simplicity but also in the dramatic backdrop of high mountains that paints a captivating portrait of this Icelandic village. Visit the dramatic and powerful Dynjandi waterfall, then choose from two shore excursion options that best suits your interests and level of fitness. Option 1 - That Viking Thing Experience (Duration: 2 hours + free time; Level of difficulty: Easy): Today, you will step back in time and learn about the Viking ways and how the hardy Norse people lived off the land. Walk through a recreated Viking area, learning about what is fact and what is fiction in the many stories you've heard about the famous Vikings. A short hike brings you to the old ruins of the Viking meeting place called a Thing - the closest translation in English is 'parliament'. Step inside the interactive Viking Museum for a chance to dress up in authentic hand-sewn Viking clothing, take photographs, drink Icelandic Viking beer, bake your own Viking bread, and explore the museum - all part of learning more about Viking ways. Option 2 - Sandafell Mountain Hike (Duration: 3 hours; Level of difficulty dependent on fitness level: Moderate-Difficult): For avid explorers, Iceland is littered with hidden gems, and possibly the best-kept secret of all is the Westfjords. Lying in the most north-westerly area of the island, this sprawling area of natural beauty is truly a hiker's paradise. Rocky peaks, deep crevices, and charming Icelandic towns all add to the appeal of the Westfjords, not to mention the various hiking trails snaking across the unusual countryside. Today, we will hike Sandafell, offering gorgeous views over the town, surrounding mountains, and the water below.

Grundarfjordur is the starting point of our adventures on the Snaefellsnes Peninsula, gateway to Snaefellsjokull National Park. Snaefellsnes Peninsula is an area of diverse landscapes that is characterized by lava fields and glistening fjords and home to a vast array of birdlife. The area is crowned by the magnificent, ice-capped Snaefellsjokull, a 700,000-year-old dormant subglacial volcano, visible from Reykjavik on a clear day and immortalized in Jules Verne's Journey to the Centre of the Earth. You can choose from a selection of shore excursion options that best suits your interests and level of fitness. Option 1 - Highlights of Snaefellsnes (Duration: 8 hours including lunch; Level of difficulty: Easy-Moderate): Our first stop will be the iconic Mount Kirkjufell, a favorite among photographers and known to many as a filming location for the TV show "Game of Thrones". Not far from this majestic mountain is a waterfall that completes the picturesque scene. Next, you'll visit Snaefellsjokull National Park, encompassing a large area of Snaefellsnes Peninsula's western tip. For the more active, explore some incredible hiking trails, or simply enjoy your drive through the park and take in the beauty that surrounds you. Continue to the dramatic black pebble beach of Djupalonssandur, where you can marvel at the black sands and colossal rock formations, volcanic landscapes, and remains of a 1948 shipwreck. Following lunch, re-join the motorcoach to travel to Budir, a picturesque hamlet surrounded by the stunning landscapes of the Snaefellsnes Peninsula. Stop to admire Budakirkja, the 19th-century church and explore the area before embarking the ship in Arnarstapi. Option 2 - Natural Wonders of Snaefellsnes (Duration: 8 hours including lunch; Level of difficulty: Moderate): Upon disembarkation, we will stop will be the iconic Mount Kirkjufell, a favorite among photographers and known to many as a filming location for the TV show "Game of Thrones". Not far from this majestic mountain is a waterfall that completes the picturesque scene. Next, you'll step into the 8,000-year-old Vatnshellir Cave, replete with stunning geology, fascinating rock formations, and colorful volcanic rock. We will meet at our base near the cave, where your friendly guide will provide you with all the equipment that you need, including a helmet and headlamp (consider wearing comfortable and sturdy footwear, as the volcanic rock can be quite difficult to traverse). Then your friendly guide will give you a brief safety talk before we descend the spiral staircase into this subterranean wonderland. The tour meanders through the path of the lava flow around 200 meters into a large cave that lies around 35 meters beneath the surface of the earth, where we will be greeted by some rainbow-colored volcanic rocks and incredible petrified lava formations. The cave is a fairly easy walk, although it will involve a degree of climbing. Following lunch, re-join the motorcoach and travel to Arnarstapi and hike the coastal trail that connects the two villages of Arnarstapi and Hellnar. Now a national reserve, this easy level hike encompasses geology, wildlife, amazing photo opportunities, folklore, and most of all adventure. This old trail takes us along the wild shoreline with a view of the ocean and extraordinary columnar basalt and lava cliff formations on one side and stunning mountains and Snaefellsjokull Glacier on the other. The cliffs are alive with a wide range of bird species such as the Arctic terns, kittiwakes, gulls, and fulmars. Option 3 - Snaefellsnes Adventure (Duration: 8 hours including lunch; Level of difficulty: Moderate-Difficult): The Land of Fire and Ice is well-known for its incredible landscapes and contrasting terrains that include several natural and geological wonders rarely found anywhere else on Earth. The unique geological history of Snaefellsnes will draw you in where you can explore sites revealing Iceland's unique geological history up close. Your first stop is at Eldborg crater, located on a short volcanic rift, just 200 meters in diameter, and 50 meters deep. It is the largest crater on this rift and was created in an eruption which occurred somewhere between 5,000 and 6,000 years ago. Unlike many of Iceland's volcanoes, it has a very classic shape, with smooth sloping sides and a very definite crater. A marked hiking path leads through a shrub-covered lava field to the top of the crater offering incredible views of Snaefellsnes National Park. We continue to the symmetrical, hexagonal-shaped basalt columns at Gerduberg Cliffs. Stand in awe at these impressive cliffs, a natural marvel that spans 500 meters. To enjoy the best view, take a walk by the structures. Climbing up the cliff is possible but to really soak in the views of this geological structure, it's best to enjoy a walk alongside the cliffs. Following lunch, re-join the motorcoach and head for the Thufubjarg bird cliff, home of nesting puffins and fulmars. From here, hike along the rugged coastline to witness the exceptionally beautiful Londrangar basalt cliffs, a geologic wonder that looks like a huge rock castle. There are many local birds here, and they are a noisy bunch. Puffins, but especially fulmars, nest in the many cavities in the two pillars. From here you hike across a pretty lava field covered in moss to Malarrif, where you can see the lighthouse and explore the beach.

During the early morning, we cruise into Reykjavik and disembark at approximately 8 am. Farewell your expedition team and fellow passengers as you continue your onward journey. Transfer options are as follows: direct to Keflavik Airport; or Bus Stop #12 Hofdatorg (outside the Fosshotel Reykjavik); or for late afternoon and evening airport departures, Bus Stop #12 Hofdatorg (outside the Fosshotel Reykjavik) where we will hold your luggage on the motorcoach until your departure to the airport at 1 pm.; Note: Booking flights departing prior to 12 pm on the day of disembarkation is not recommended, as we may experience delays at the conclusion of the voyage.