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Iceland’s Fire & Ice Circumnavigation

Land Tour

Embark on a journey through stunning scenery, volcanic landscapes and rich nautical culture on our 11-day Iceland's Fire & Ice Circumnavigation Cruise. Discover a dramatic world shaped by fire and ice, where towering glaciers, enchanting fjords, remote wilderness, rare wildlife and awe-inspiring volcans provide the backdrop to an unforgettable expedition cruise. This cruise around Iceland is widely considered one of the best Iceland cruises available.

Travelling with Heritage Expeditions, aboard our 130-guest ice-strengthened expedition ship, you will benefit from our decades of Arctic experience and industry-leading expedition team. It is a true small ship Iceland cruise experience. Departing from trendy capital Reykjavík, we will explore Iceland's legendary Golden Circle and the glacier-carved grandeur of Grundarfjörður, where charming fishing villages nestle beneath snow-capped mountains. Be dwarfed by the sheer magnitude of towering fjords, where Zodiac cruises will allow us to explore the deep reaches of some of Iceland's most rugged and untouched landscapes, inaccessible to larger vessels. Guided walks, hiking opportunities and wildlife excursions offer immersive ways to experience these remote environments. Out on deck, watch for whales, dolphins and seabirds thriving in some of the world's most nutrient-rich waters, while our on board naturalists help bring these wildlife-rich regions to life.

Birding enthusiasts will relish the opportunity to visit Látrabjarg cliffs, Europe's largest bird cliff and home to up to 10 million seabirds, as well as Borgarfjörður Eystri, Vigur Island and Djúpivogur, where the 1,069-metre basalt mountain Búlandstindur, believed to be eight million years old, provides exceptional birding opportunities. Discover the fascinating folklore deeply intertwined with Icelandic history and culture, from the legendary hidden people and elf folklore to enduring maritime traditions and artisan heritage. Uncover the rich maritime heritage of Siglufjörður and Eurovision-famous Húsavík, explore the geothermal landscapes, bubbling mud pools, lava fields and volcanic terrain of Lake Mývatn, the Westman Islands and UNESCO-listed Surtsey Island, one of the world's youngest islands. A day to remember awaits in Vatnajökull National Park, where eerily blue icebergs glide across the water and chunks of ice lie glittering on the black volcanic sands of Diamond Beach.

Join us for the ultimate Iceland expedition cruise and circumnavigation exploring this fascinating landscape, steeped in history and tradition, of fire and ice. This expedition includes the option to join sea kayaking excursions with an expert guide. Perfect for those seeking an Iceland cruise with kayaking, this Iceland circumnavigation cruise promises a luxury Iceland cruise experience like no other.

Excludes

Kayaking, all items of a personal nature, laundry, drinks, gratuities. International/domestic flights, visas and travel insurance.

From price

$14,400
From price per person, twin share
Number Of Days
11
Start Location
Reykjavík
End Location
Reykjavík
Age Range
Avg. 57+
Group Size
140
Tour Style
Premium
Tour Themes
No specific theme
Physical Rating
Easy to Moderate

Departure dates

From price per person, twin share - (Pricing may vary by accommodation, cabin or fare category)
Start End Availability From price
02 Jun 2027 12 Jun 2027 Available $14,400

Inclusions

  • Local payment, one night hotel accommodation in a twin share room (incl. dinner/breakfast), transfer to ship, all on board ship accommodation with meals, house beer, wine and soft drinks with lunch and dinner and all expedition shore excursions. Programme of lectures by noted naturalists and airport transfer.

    • Itinerary details

    Day 1 - Reykjavík, Iceland
    Arrive in Reykjavík, Iceland's trendy capital, where a cutting-edge arts and culture scene rubs shoulders with historic monuments and lively nightlife. It's also the world's northernmost capital of a sovereign state. Make your way to your hotel, where you will spend the first night of the expedition. This evening, meet your fellow voyagers and some of our expedition guides over dinner at the hotel.
    Day 2 - Reykjavík
    After breakfast at the hotel, we have a full day planned to explore Iceland's world-famous sightseeing route, the Golden Circle. Witness the raw power of Gullfoss, a truly epic two-tiered waterfall where 100,000 litres of glacial water from the Hvítá River plunge 31 metres into the Gullfossgljúfur Canyon every second. At the erupting geothermal hot springs of the Haukadalur region, the famous Great Geysir might have retired, but smaller geyser Strokkur still blasts fountains of boiling water up to 30 metres high every 8-10 minutes. Walk between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates at Þingvellir National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Almannagjá Canyon, and explore the site of the world's oldest parliament, dating back to 930 AD. Almannagjá Canyon also featured in Game of Thrones as the entrance to the ancient castle Eyrie. This afternoon, board Heritage Discoverer, where the captain and expedition team will welcome you on board, and you will have time to settle into your accommodations and familiarise yourself with the ship. You are invited to join the expedition team in the Observation Lounge as we set our course for Grundarfjörður and the Snæfellsnes Peninsula. A superb start to any Golden Circle cruise, aboard the Heritage Discoverer Iceland cruise ship.
    Day 3 - Grundarfjörður, Iceland
    This morning sees us greeted by the glacier-carved terrain of Iceland's Snæfellsnes Peninsula, highlighted by the sparkling waterfalls and icebergs of Drangajökull Glacier, Iceland's northernmost glacier. Enjoy exploring the many charms of fishing village Grundarfjörður, surrounded by spectacular mountains, including the town's landmark Mount Kirkjufell, which stands solitary after being carved out of the main mountain range by two glaciers during the Ice Age. With its natural harbour, it is easy to see why this perfectly positioned town was a prominent trading post, with artefacts supporting its history dating back to Viking times. Grandiose views of the majestic glacier-capped Snæfellsjökull volcano and its otherworldly landscape can be enjoyed at the technically 'active' volcano, which last erupted some 1,800 years ago and is still closely monitored. Snæfellsjökull volcano provided the entry point in Jules Verne's 1864 classic Journey to the Centre of the Earth and is a magical setting for the 12th-century Icelandic sagas. Grundarfjörður is also a sanctuary for the White-tailed Eagle, the largest predatory bird in Iceland. Options include exploring the Langjökull Glacier ice cap on Mount Kirkjufell, or a deep dive into local culture and history with a visit to a traditional farm. Try the local delicacy, fermented Icelandic Shark and encounter Iceland's famous Icelandic Horses, one of the world's oldest and purest horse breeds.
    Day 4 - Patreksfjörður & Dynjandi
    Arriving at the coastal village of Patreksfjörður, population 700, rare golden sands, remnants of scallop shells, replace the traditional black volcanic sands elsewhere in Iceland. While the fishing industry on which the village was built remains an important part of daily life, Patreksfjörður's proximity to the Látrabjarg cliffs, Rauðasandur beach and Dynjandi waterfall has made this tiny town a tourist attraction. According to Iceland's Book of Settlers, Patreksfjörður was named Saint Patrick's Fjord by Celtic Viking Örlygur Hrappsson, who believed the 5th-century 'Apostle of Ireland' was his spiritual guide. This morning we will travel to the spectacular Látrabjarg cliffs. This natural wonder is Europe's largest bird cliff, spanning 14 kilometres long and up to a dizzying 441 metres high of sheer towering cliff face, where up to 10 million seabirds breed each summer. A definitive Latrabjarg bird cliffs cruise experience, and a highlight for any Iceland birding cruise. Safe from foxes, this westernmost point of Iceland provides stunning photographic opportunities from close range of the millions of fearless Atlantic Puffins, Common Guillemots, Razorbills, Brünnich's Guillemots, Kittiwakes and Northern Fulmars nesting here. A multisensory experience on every level, marvel at the amazing views stretching out over the Atlantic Ocean, which supports this seabird mega-city, where the air is alive with beating wings. This afternoon, venture further into the heart of the spectacular fjords through some of Iceland's most rugged and untouched landscapes, as we discover world-famous Dynjandi Waterfall. Situated deep within the fjords in a sheltered bay, the water drops 100 metres via a series of six stepped waterfalls in a formidable display of nature as it traverses a lush arctic meadow filled with wildflowers before reaching the shores of the bay.
    Day 5 - Vigur & Ísafjörður
    This morning, we explore the small, family-owned private island and wildlife sanctuary of Vigur. Just two kilometres long and 400 metres wide, it was named for its spear-like shape but is also known as 'Puffin Island'. More than 60 species of birds can be seen on the island, including 100,000 Atlantic Puffins, 1,500 Black Guillemots, 1,700 Arctic Terns and more than 7,000 Common Eiders. The sixth-generation farming family still practice the same sustainable eiderdown harvesting traditions of this valuable commodity. During our explorations discover Europe's smallest post office and Iceland's only windmill, dating back to the 1840s. Just a short distance away is the small fishing community of Ísafjörður, a 16th-century trading post and now cultural epicentre located in the heart of the famed Westfjords region. Renowned for its scenic beauty and expansive wilderness, it is the least-populated region in Iceland and, with its layered volcanic fjord shores, is considered one of its most scenic. An afternoon visit to Ísafjörður is planned to explore the Hornstrandir Nature Reserve with our naturalists, or the town's museums, galleries, and artisan workshops, making this a true Westfjords Iceland cruise highlight.
    Day 6 - Siglufjörður & Grímsey
    Be sure to be out on deck or in the Observation Lounge as we sail towards the picture postcard town of Siglufjörður, where rows of colourful houses sit nestled at the end of a narrow fjord framed by dramatic mountain scenery on the Trollaskagi Peninsula, and a stone's throw from the Arctic Circle. This former tiny shark fishing village of the 1900s became the capital of the herring fishing boom in the Atlantic, resulting in Iceland's northernmost town becoming one of its most prosperous, fuelling some marvellous examples of Icelandic architecture. While the herring era went bust, locals gave the town a new lease of life, turning the former industrial buildings into cafés, ski resorts and breweries. Wander through the town exploring its quirky cafes, galleries, workshops, church, Folk Music Centre, and famous Herring Era Museum housed in an old herring factory. Enjoy lunch on board as we sail to the remote and rugged island of Grímsey. This tiny island, just five square kilometres, is the northernmost inhabited point of Iceland, and where seabirds outnumber locals by 10,000 to one. The Arctic Circle bisects the island and is marked by the iconic photo op known as the Arctic Circle Monument – a 9-tonne, three metre stone sphere which is moved each year to align with the Arctic Circle. Renowned for its tiny, plucky community, its rugged coastline is dominated by towering columnar basalt cliffs up to 100 metres high and wrapped in an endless expanse of the Arctic Ocean. Zodiac ashore and join our expedition team members for nature and photography walks among wandering sheep, incredible birdlife, and the iconic Grímseyjarviti lighthouse built in 1937 and perched above a sheer cliff on the northern coast. A much loved and incredibly memorable Grimsey Arctic Circle cruise stop.
    Day 7 - Húsavík
    Today, we explore the many charms of Húsavík, a small town overlooking Skjálfandi Bay, known as the whale watching capital of Iceland and immortalised in the parody Eurovision song 'Húsavík – My Home Town' in the Eurovision Song Contest: The Story of Fire Saga film. Once the centre of the Icelandic whaling industry, today it enjoys a thriving whale watching industry where Humpback and Minke Whales can be observed alongside White-beaked Dolphins and Harbour Porpoises in the rich feeding grounds of Skjálfandi Bay. One of the best Husavik whale watching cruise experiences in Iceland. Explore Húsavík's whaling history at the Whale Museum, where you will find an upside-down Blue Whale skeleton in the renovated former slaughterhouse. Eurovision fans will want to visit the Eurovision Museum and bar Jaja Ding Dong, or venture inland to discover the spectacular sight of Goðafoss waterfall, or 'waterfall of the gods', where Skjálfandafljót River crashes 12 metres down volcanic basalt, resulting in a 30-metre-wide horsesh-shaped cascade. Our explorations continue at Mývatn, a stunning volcanic lake rich in wildlife formed around 2,300 years ago and surrounded by hot springs, lava fields, bubbling mud pools, sulphur vents and striking geological formations revealing the activity which continues to shape Iceland's landscape. The lake is also a renowned birding site, attracting Whooper Swans, Arctic Terns, Red-necked Phalaropes, Great Northern Divers, Eurasian Wigeons, Tufted Ducks, Greater Scaups, Barrow's Goldeneyes and Northern Shovelers, among others. Though it is named 'Midges Lake' for a reason, the tiny insects are prolific here in summer and an important part of the ecosystem; don't forget the insect repellent.
    Day 8 - Borgarfjörður Eystri
    Enjoy a leisurely morning listening to lectures, catching up on our latest adventures or watching our passage unfold from your favourite spot on Heritage Discoverer before we arrive at Borgarfjörður Eystri. Located on Iceland's eastern coastline, the small town of Borgarfjörður Eystri is a renowned puffin viewing site, outdoor adventure playground and Elfin hot spot with what is believed to be one of the most populated 'hidden people' settlements in Iceland. Indeed, the fjord is named after the residency of the Icelandic Elf-queen – Álfaborg, a rocky hill next to the village. During our time exploring this stunning fjord, framed by the peak of Svartvell, stretch your legs with a challenging hike which rewards with sweeping panoramas. Explore the surrounding countryside with your expedition guides or join a local guide touring the small village, including a stop at the local eiderdown shop and an exhibit of Johannes Kjarval, one of Iceland's greatest painters, who grew up in the area. There will also be time to enjoy observing the puffins, beaks filled with fish to feed their young, at their bustling island colony, providing never-ending photographic opportunities.
    Day 9 - Djúpivogur & Vatnajökull National Park
    This morning, we sail into the sheltered waters of Djúpivogur, famed for its outdoor lifestyle, fascinating geology and birding, on the Búlandsnes peninsula. Nestled between the Hamarsfjörður and Berufjörður fjords, it is also home to Iceland's iconic glacier-carved 1,069-metre basalt mountain Búlandstindur, believed to be 8 million years old. Travelling southward, we make our way to Vatnajökull National Park, one of Iceland's most celebrated natural wonders and largest national park covering 13% of the island. This incredible UNESCO World Heritage site was uniquely shaped by the combined forces of rivers, glacial ice, and volcanic and geothermal activity. This stretch is the highlight of any Vatnajökull National Park cruise tour. We start our exploration with a visit to the breathtaking Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon, one of Iceland's premier natural wonders, where you will enjoy the unforgettable experience of navigating immense, startlingly blue icebergs, calved from the Breiðamerkurjökull Glacier as they serenely float across the still turquoise water towards the Atlantic Ocean. We follow their passage to Diamond Beach, where chunks of the crystal-clear ice litter the black volcanic sand sparkling like scattered diamonds. A bucket-list Diamond Beach Iceland tour moment.
    Day 10 - Westman Islands
    Our final full day of adventure sees us visiting what is considered Iceland's best-kept secret - the otherworldly, unrestrained rugged beauty of the Westman Islands or Vestmannaeyjar. Resembling the islands featured in Jurassic Park, this archipelago of 15 islands and 30 rock stacks, off the South Coast of Iceland, formed by undersea volcans between 5,000 and 10,000 years ago, is among the youngest of the world's archipelagos – and the location of the world's youngest island, Surtsey. Now a UNESCO World Heritage site, it was formed during a three-year underwater eruption starting in 1963. Meanwhile, the scarred terrain from the main island, Heimaey's 1973 eruption of Eldfell, which saw the island grow from 11 to 13.5 square kilometres, can still be seen today. We plan to cruise by Surtsey, now the location of ground-breaking research on how plants and animals colonise new land, on our way to Heimaey harbour. As the location of the world's largest population of nesting puffin, mixed with fascinating geology, stunning natural scenery, the opportunity to walk to the summit of Eldfell, and the resilient culture of the remarkable locals, all makes for an exceptional expedition day and a fitting Westman Islands cruise finale.
    Day 11 - Reykjavík, Iceland
    Early this morning, we will arrive back in Reykjavík. After a final breakfast, we bid farewell to our fellow voyagers and take a complimentary coach transfer to a central city location or Keflavík International Airport. In case of unexpected delays due to weather and/or port operations, we ask you not to book any onward travel until after 12 noon. A very fitting close to this Reykjavik round trip cruise. Note: During our voyage, circumstances may make it necessary or desirable to deviate from the proposed itinerary. This can include poor weather and opportunities for making unplanned excursions. Your Expedition Leader will keep you fully informed. This tour offers a variety of activities and excursions. Your personal interests will determine which of these you wish to join. Please note that some activities and excursions will run at similar times, and it will not be possible to participate in both. Accordingly, refunds for excursions and missed landings are not available. Voyages are planned and scheduled pending final regulatory approval.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    You should choose this tour if you are looking for a comprehensive 11-day circumnavigation of Iceland aboard a luxury, ice-strengthened expedition ship. This journey offers a unique blend of stunning volcanic landscapes, towering glaciers, and rich nautical culture, led by an industry-leading expedition team with decades of Arctic experience. From Zodiac cruises in rugged fjords to visiting Europe's largest bird cliffs, this tour provides an immersive experience of Iceland's most remote and breathtaking environments.
    This tour is designed for explorers who appreciate a premium, small-ship experience and have a passion for nature, wildlife, and culture. Birding enthusiasts will particularly enjoy the visits to Láttrabjarg cliffs and Vigur Island, while those interested in geology, folklore, and maritime history will find the itinerary deeply rewarding. It is ideal for travellers who enjoy a mix of guided walks, hiking, and the option for sea kayaking.
    The pros include the use of a small, 130-guest ship that can access remote areas unreachable by larger vessels, a highly experienced expedition team, and a diverse itinerary covering key highlights like the Golden Circle and Vatnajökull National Park. On the downside, certain activities like kayaking are not included in the base price, and because some excursions run simultaneously, you may have to choose between activities, meaning you cannot participate in everything.
    While the text does not explicitly categorize the tour for specific groups, its premium nature and small-ship atmosphere make it a versatile option. The communal dining and shared expedition experiences are great for solo travellers to meet others, while the luxury accommodations and stunning scenery provide a romantic setting for couples. Families with a keen interest in nature and exploration would also find the educational aspects of the expedition rewarding.
    This tour is excellent for both. First-time visitors will benefit from seeing the most iconic landmarks, such as the Golden Circle and Reykjavík, while experienced travellers will appreciate the deep dive into remote regions like the Westfjords, the Arctic Circle at Grímsey, and the youngest islands of the Westman archipelago.
    The tour's physicality rating is listed as 'Easy to Moderate.' While the ship provides a luxury base, the itinerary includes guided walks, hiking opportunities, and the use of Zodiac boats to reach rugged landscapes, which may require a certain level of mobility. We recommend contacting the provider for specific accessibility details regarding the shore excursions.
    This tour offers a balanced blend of all three. Sightseeing is prominent with visits to the Golden Circle and Diamond Beach; culture is explored through Icelandic folklore, maritime museums, and traditional farms; and adventure is integrated through Zodiac cruising, hiking, and optional sea kayaking excursions.
    The pace is moderate and well-structured. While the itinerary is comprehensive, covering a full circumnavigation of the island, it includes dedicated time for leisure, such as a relaxed morning of lectures and observation on Day 8, ensuring guests can absorb the experience without feeling constantly rushed.
    The itinerary feels thoughtfully planned to balance exploration with relaxation. By utilizing a small ship to move between destinations and providing a mix of active excursions and on-board downtime in the Observation Lounge, the journey allows guests to experience a vast amount of territory in a comfortable and steady manner.
    Yes, the tour includes many of Iceland's most famous highlights, including the Golden Circle (Gullfoss, Geysir, and Þingvellir National Park), Vatnajökull National Park, the Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon, Diamond Beach, and the capital city of Reykjavík.
    While the text does not explicitly mention translation services, the tour is led by an industry-leading expedition team and on-board naturalists who facilitate all guided walks, wildlife excursions, and educational lectures, ensuring a seamless experience for the guests.
    Disclaimer:
    These FAQs have been generated with the assistance of AI to provide a general overview. They are intended as a starting point only and should be reviewed based on your knowledge, current supplier information and client requirements.
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