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USAExplore Iceland while spotting the gentle giants of the sea – including humpback blue and orcas – in the whale-watching capital of Northern Europe.
Explore Iceland while spotting the gentle giants of the sea – including humpback blue and orcas – in the whale-watching capital of Northern Europe.
Soar over the unique landscape in a state-of-the-art H130-T2 helicopter, kayak past glaciers and volcanoes or discover the marine life during a submarine dive. Take a walking tour of a fishing village, or hear the locals of Seyðisfjörður tell how they pumped cold sea water onto advancing lava streams from nearby Eldfell – ‘Hill Of Fire’ – volcano to save their sea port. This is the best spot in Iceland to see orcas.
Visit Reykjavik – which means Smokey Bay and was named in the first century AD after Viking Ingolfur Arnarson spotted what he thought was smoke coming from the geysers and springs there. The northernmost capital city in the world is home to a 10th-century longhouse, and the famous Blue Lagoon.
Next, head off to Patreksfjörður, previously the pioneering force in Iceland’s fishing industry and explore the coastline which was once the playground of pirates.
In the east, Seyðisfjörður sits at the mount of a beautiful fjord. Known for its 19th-century timber houses perched on the side of the lagoon, a “pearl enclosed in a shell”, it is surrounded by snow-capped mountains and cascading waterfalls. Porpoises frequent the shores, while reindeer often wander into this charming town.
Explore the majestic shores, and unparalleled beauty of Iceland while following in the footsteps of intrepid explorer Leif Eriksson to immerse yourself in nature and observe local wildlife from puffins to the gentle giants of the sea.
Admire one of the most eco-friendly cities in the world from the Perlan – a hilltop glass dome offering spectacular panoramic views of Reykjavik. Then set out in search of the graceful giants in the whale-watching capital of Northern Europe.
Nearly half – 42 per cent – of the world’s whales call these waters home. That’s a staggering 12- 15 species, including Blue, Fin, Humpback and Minke. Head out on a whale safari that will cover a large area during the three-hour tour.
If the gentle giants are camera shy, there’s another chance to see them on another safari from Akureyi where they come into the bay to feed. Look out for visiting humpbacks with their black and white pectoral fins and high-octane acrobatic displays. White-beaked dolphins, harbour porpoises and seabirds are usually close by.
Early spring is the perfect time to visit Iceland. Smaller crowds mean you can enjoy everything at your own pace and revel in the glorious countryside and wildlife.
A visit to Akureyri provides a chance to experience a once-in-a-lifetime adventure on a whale-watching tour. Get up close to Humpback and Minke whales as they return to their breeding grounds. See dolphins and porpoises in their natural habitat, too. Within reach are some of the country’s most incredible natural wonders, including the Godafoss ‘Waterfall of the Gods’ and Lake Myvatn.
Reykjavik – Iceland’s stunning coastal capital – combines a cosmopolitan vibe with some of Iceland’s cultural and historical sights.
The city is home to the Athing, the world’s oldest parliament, and the Saga and National Museums trace Iceland’s Viking history.
Located in southwest Iceland –with its vast peninsulas, coves, straits and islands – Reykjavik is in easy reach of The iconic Golden Circle Trail which includes the Blue Lagoon Spa, the renowned Gullfoss Waterfall, and the Geysir hot springs.
