An island of dramatic contrasts, uncover Iceland’s natural beauty through a land forged by ice and fire. Travel the “Golden Circle” – an epicenter of natural scenic wonders. Explore Skógar Museum and see traditional turf-built homes. Walk on a black volcanic sand beach. See Jökulsárlón glacial lagoon filled with floating icebergs. Discover otherworldly wonders and captivating cultures on a fascinating Icelandic journey.
Opportunities to witness a total solar eclipse are rare. Your chances of experiencing one in the Arctic—from the deck of a polar ship—are even more rare considering the last total solar eclipse north of the Arctic Circle occurred in 2015. The next will take place on August 12, 2026.To satisfy the demand of eclipse-watchers, this longer voyage has been introduced on one of Quark's newest ships, Ocean Explorer. Covering 2,200 nautical miles in total—this expedition features your bucket-list eclipse adventure, time to explore Northeast and South Greenland, plus you get to check off two of the world’s northernmost capital cities: the Icelandic capital of Reykjavik (64°08′ north), where you’ll have time to explore, and Nuuk, Greenland (64°11′ north), where we disembark for our charter flight back to Reykjavik.
World-renown eclipse-cartographer Michael Zeiler will be onboard to deepen your understanding of eclipse-viewing, observational astronomy and celestial mechanics. Of course, you’ll also get to witness waterfalls, towering cliffs and remote fishing villages in the Westfjords, a hidden gem of Iceland, as well as icebergs, wilderness areas, glaciers, and the deep fjords of Greenland.
Special guest Michael Zeiler: The highly respected author, geographer and eclipse cartographer is a member of the International Astronomical Union Working Group on Solar Eclipses – with an asteroid named in his honour. Zeiler has been witnessing solar eclipses since 1991 and was among the first to develop eclipse maps online.
Polar expeditions and cruise
Tour Type
Group Tour
Accommodation
Hotel
Age Range
18-99 yrs
Operated in
english
Destinations
Reykjavik, Northeast Greenland N
Reykjavik, Northeast Greenland National Park, Northeast Greenland National Park, Westfjords, Denmark Strait
Embark on an unforgettable journey through Iceland, blending natural wonders, cultural highlights, and the rare spectacle of a Solar Eclipse. Begin by exploring the Reykjanes Peninsula, known for its dramatic landscapes, geothermal hot springs, and rugged mountains, followed by a relaxing soak in the iconic Blue Lagoon. Discover the charm of Reykjavík with a guided tour showcasing city highlights and local gourmet flavors. Witness the awe-inspiring Solar Eclipse as the sky darkens and day briefly turns to night, with specially designed glasses provided for safe viewing. Continue your adventure along the famous Golden Circle, visiting Þingvellir National Park, the erupting geysers, and the majestic Gullfoss waterfall. While at the Geysir area, enjoy a true taste of Iceland with hot spring bread, Icelandic butter, boiled eggs, and herring, making this experience a perfect blend of nature, culture, and cuisine!
Explorer
Tour Type
Independent TourTypically a private tour undertaken by one or two travelers
In the seldom-visited Westfjords of Iceland − ‘Iceland’s best-kept secret’ − you explore the rugged peninsula of fjords, towering mountains, bird-dwelling cliffs, gushing waterfalls and rolling green hills. Before leaving Iceland, you can also visit the private island sanctuary of Vigur, home to 7,000 eider ducks and 100,000 puffins. In East Greenland, after sailing the length of Ikerasassuaq (Prins Christian Sund), immerse yourself in spectacular glaciers, mountainous landscapes, culturally rich communities, and Nuuk, the capital of Greenland. Together, we explore − by ship, Zodiac, kayak and on foot − some of the longest fjords in Greenland, such as Eternity, Kangerlussuaq and Tasermiut. With the help of expert guides, you also learn about Norse and Viking cultures, traditional Icelandic ways of life, as well as contemporary Greenlandic customs.
Iceland, the mystical island nation sculpted by fire and ice, is popular for its thunderously cascading waterfalls, towering cliffs, geysers spontaneously erupting in full furies of steam, stunning shorelines dotted with fishing villages, expansive glaciers, rarely-visited wild places, and hard-to-reach coastal areas of breathtaking splendor.
Most visitors have confined themselves to very established tourist routes, largely by automobile, and thus have limited their experience of Iceland.
That’s the challenge we presented to our team of innovators: how can you do it all on a trip through Iceland? How can you authentically explore the entire country, take in all of its main attractions—while also exploring the rarely-visited side of Iceland?That kernel of inspiration led to the creation of our 12–day Iceland Circumnavigation: Helicopters, Glaciers and Volcanoes, which enables us to take travelers around the entire island—a complete circumnavigation starting and ending in Reykjavik—and explore by small polar ship, Zodiac, coach bus, kayak and helicopter.
The genesis for this adventure dates to November 24, 2003, the day Quark Expeditions became the first operator to successfully lead a total solar eclipse voyage in remote Antarctica.
On that day, we provided 100 people, from 17 different nations, the experience of becoming the first-ever humans to witness a total solar eclipse in Antarctica. Now we’ve decided to achieve a comparable feat in the Arctic. However, with innovation as our DNA, we set out to make it distinct from any other eclipse-viewing experience in the industry.
We’ve assembled a taskforce of eclipse experts, a meteorologist and members of our Expedition Team to research the geography, terrain, angles of the sun, and Arctic weather patterns to prepare for one of the rarest experiences on the planet – observing a total solar eclipse in the High Arctic.
In addition, you’ll discover the natural wonders of the Westfjords – the unsung wonder of West Iceland. Our journey also takes us into the immense Northeast Greenland National Park, where we cruise the 70mi (110km) King Oscar Fjord. You’ll also get to unleash your inner adventurer on thrilling heli-flightseeing adventures over remote Greenland on Ultramarine’s state-of-the-art helicopters.
Special Guests
David Baron: The veteran science journalist, broadcaster and umbraphile – who has witnessed nine total solar eclipses across the globe – is also the author of the award-winning American Eclipse: A Nation’s Epic Race to Catch the Shadow of the Moon and Win the Glory of the World. Baron has travelled to every continent and more than 50 countries for work and pleasure.
Michael Zeiler: The highly respected author, geographer and eclipse cartographer is a member of the International Astronomical Union Working Group on Solar Eclipses – with an asteroid named in his honour. Zeiler has been witnessing solar eclipses since 1991 and was among the first to develop eclipse maps online.
Polar expeditions and cruise
Tour Type
Group Tour
Accommodation
Hotel, Hut
Age Range
18-99 yrs
Operated in
english
Destinations
Reykjavik, Scoresbysund, Westfjo
Reykjavik, Scoresbysund, Westfjords, Northeast Greenland National Park, King Oscar Fjord
Get ready to explore Iceland’s most stunning sights on this unforgettable journey from west to east. Your adventure begins in Reykjavik, where you’ll immerse yourself in Icelandic history, culture, and cuisine. Next, venture to the Snaefellsnes Peninsula—an otherworldly landscape of jagged coastlines, glacier tongues, black pebble beaches, ancient lava fields, and the iconic Kirkjufell mountain. In Borgarfjörður, marvel at natural wonders like Hraunfossar waterfall and Europe’s most powerful hot spring, Deildartunguhver. Explore the historic village of Reykholt, learn about medieval poet Snorri Sturluson, and choose between relaxing in the Krauma geothermal baths or visiting the family-run Sturlureykir horse farm. Continue to the famous Golden Circle, where you’ll witness Thingvellir National Park’s rift valley, the roaring Gullfoss waterfall, and the erupting Strokkur geyser. Travel along the scenic South Coast to visit Seljalandsfoss waterfall and the dramatic black sands of Reynisfjara Beach. One of the tour’s highlights is a visit to Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon, where shimmering icebergs drift across the water before washing ashore at the nearby Diamond Beach. You’ll also have the chance to explore a natural ice cave inside Vatnajökull glacier or visit the Katla Ice Cave—an unforgettable experience available even in summer. Your adventure wraps up with a stop at the powerful Skógafoss waterfall, and a drive through moss-covered lava fields and alongside snow-capped mountains as you return to Reykjavik—completing your epic Icelandic summer journey !
Natural landmarks sightseeing
Tour Type
Independent TourTypically a private tour undertaken by one or two travelers
Our Icelandic Adventure is filled with iconic experiences that highlight the very best of the region. We have included comfort admission into the famous Blue Lagoon, renowned for its rejuvenating geothermal waters and a natural wonder of the world. Next on your list is a guided excursion into the natural ice caves of Katla. You will embark on a beautiful and exciting super jeep ride to the secret area of one of 13 glaciers where you'll take a short walk through an amazing glacier area towards the natural ice cave - an experience like no other!
Also included within your Icelandic Adventure is entry to Hvammsvik Hot Spring Baths. Away from the crowds, you can enjoy 8 hot springs right on the Atlantic ocean, with water levels and temperatures fluctuating with the tides. Depending on the time of year, we include a Northern Lights by Boat Tour or a Whale Watching Tour. Sail away from the coastline of Reykjavik with a local guide in search for the amazing natural phenomenon that are the Northern Lights. Alternatively, on your guided whale watching tour from Reykjavik, you have the incredible opportunity to see minke and humpback whales, porpoises and dolphins.
Amongst all the above, you will also have the opportunity to drive the iconic Golden Circle route where you can visit UNESCO World Heritage Site Thingvellier National Park, Geysir Geothermal Area and the spectacular glacial waters of Gullfoss Waterfall. Whilst staying in Borgarfjordur within Western Iceland, you can explore the nearby Snaefellsnes, often referred to as 'Iceland in miniature' because of the wealth and diversity of its natural features. The coastline here is adorned with white and black sand beaches including Ytri-Tunga beach where you can observe its year-round seal colony.
Your trip begins and ends in the bustling city of Reykjavik; we recommend adding extra nights here should you want more time to explore the capital.
YEAR-ROUND TOUR: Enjoy a relaxing Reykjavik arrival day on this 8-day escorted tour, which takes in the best of Iceland's nature. Explore the famed Golden Circle to see erupting geysers, thundering waterfalls and Thingvellir National Park. Walk behind Seljalandsfoss, see the icebergs of Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon and enjoy an included 3-hour whale watching cruise. Depending on your seaosn of travel, enjoy an included glacier hike or ice cave tour, explore Lake Myvatn and Akureyri in the north and hike up the Grabrok volcano crater in the west of the country.
Whale watchingGeysers
Tour Type
Small Group TourSmall group tours usually have 8-12 participants and maximum up to 18 travelers
Accommodation
Hotel
Age Range
18-80 yrs
Operated in
english
Destinations
Reykjavik, Kirkjubæjarklaustur
Reykjavik, Kirkjubæjarklaustur, Hof, Lake Myvatn, Akureyri, Laugarbakki
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Get ready to uncover Iceland’s breathtaking landscapes on this incredible tour. Your adventure kicks off in Reykjavik, the world’s northernmost capital, where you’ll immerse yourself in Icelandic history, culture, and gastronomy. From here, you’ll visit the three iconic attractions of Golden Circle - Þingvellir National Park, the geothermal wonders of the Geysir hot spring area and iconic Gulfoss waterfall, after which you’ll head towards the Southern Coast of Iceland. After visiting Skogafoss, you’ll tick off Vatnajökull glacier, Iceland's highest peak Hvannadalshnúkur, Skaftafell, and the breathtaking Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon. Next, you’ll continue your journey towards the East Fjords, stopping at Egilsstaðir, the picturesque town on the banks of the Lagarfljót River, and at the Wilderness Centre. Continue the journey around picturesque Lake Mývatn towards Akureyri, stopping at the stunningly beautiful Goðafoss Waterfall, known as the "Waterfall of the Gods." From there, you’ll journey west to Borgarfjörður, where you’ll witness the impressive Deildartunguhver hot spring and the stunning Hraunfossar and Barnafoss waterfalls. Next, explore the Snaefellsnes Peninsula, with highlights including the striking black sands of Djúpalónssandur beach and the remains of the British trawler Epine.The tour concludes as you return to Reykjavik, wrapping up this unforgettable journey through Iceland’s natural wonders.
Experience the freedom of the open road as you journey through Iceland’s most awe-inspiring natural landscapes on this unforgettable self-drive tour. Navigate scenic routes that wind through dramatic coastlines, rugged lava fields, vast glaciers, and thunderous waterfalls—each bend revealing a new wonder to explore. This carefully crafted itinerary takes you deep into Iceland’s remote wilderness as well as to its most celebrated landmarks. Discover the untamed beauty of the countryside, where few travelers venture, and immerse yourself in the island’s rich history, unique culture, and warm local hospitality. Travel along the iconic South Shore to witness majestic sights such as Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss waterfalls, Reynisfjara’s black sand beach, and the extraordinary Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon, where icebergs of all shapes and sizes drift silently across the water. Just nearby, walk along Diamond Beach where crystal-clear ice shards shimmer against volcanic black sands. No Iceland journey is complete without exploring the legendary Golden Circle. Stand in awe at Þingvellir National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site where tectonic plates drift apart. Feel the earth’s power at the erupting geysers of the Geysir geothermal area, and marvel at the mighty Gullfoss waterfall as it plunges into a dramatic canyon. From iconic highlights to hidden gems, this self-drive adventure showcases the very best of Iceland—offering a perfect balance of independence, discovery, and unforgettable moments in nature’s raw embrace.
Self-drive or vehicle rental
Tour Type
Independent TourTypically a private tour undertaken by one or two travelers
Accommodation
Hotel
Age Range
8-99 yrs
Operated in
English
Destinations
Reykjavik, Thingvellir National
Reykjavik, Thingvellir National Park, Dyrholaey, Hofn, Egilsstadir, Akureyri, Skagafjordur, Borgarnes
Embark on an Icelandic journey with our thrilling self-drive tour! Begin your exploration in Reykjavik, where you'll take your rental vehicle, granting you the freedom to uncover the charms of this dynamic capital. Delight in leisurely days in Reykjavik, savoring its culinary treasures and immersing yourself in the city's charm. Later, traverse the scenic Ring Road, marveling at Iceland's awe-inspiring landscapes—rolling hills and lava fields. Discover the captivating village of Vik, renowned for its striking cliffs and the otherworldly Reynisfjara black sand beach. Soak yourself in the mesmerizing beauty of nature with visits to the Dyrhólaey peninsula, offering breathtaking coastal vistas and the opportunity to encounter puffins. Wrap up your adventure by returning to Reykjavik, where you'll bid farewell to your rental car, cherishing the memories of this unforgettable Icelandic escapade.
Natural landmarks sightseeing
Tour Type
Independent TourTypically a private tour undertaken by one or two travelers
SUMMER TOUR: Embark on a captivating adventure through Iceland's majestic West Fjords. From exploring ancient volcanic craters and Viking history at Eiríksstaðir to the ethereal beauty of Rauðasandur beach and the Látrabjarg seabird cliffs. Traverse through picturesque villages like Flateyri, and dive into Icelandic sorcery's mystical tales at the Museum of Icelandic Sorcery and Witchcraft. Savour the flavors of Suðureyri's seafood, encounter Icelandic horses, and explore Reykjavík's iconic landmarks.
The fabled sea route connecting the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans, the Northwest Passage has gripped imaginations for centuries. On this captivating voyage, we invite you aboard our game-changing new vessel, Ocean Explorer, to discover this fascinating waterway with an incredible range of on-board comforts and off-ship adventures no other vessel can offer.
Passing through the Canadian Arctic archipelago, you journey back in time to the height of Arctic exploration, while visiting areas that Inuit people have made their home for thousands of years.
Marvel at highlights of the Canadian Arctic and Greenland’s stunning west coast, stopping at Inuit and Greenlandic communities. Visit the Ilulissat Icefjord, whose Sermeq Kujalleq glacier calves off enormous icebergs. And keep your eyes peeled for the elusive and majestic creatures who make their home in these harsh, remote landscapes, such as whales, walrus, muskoxen and polar bears.
Polar expeditions and cruise
Tour Type
Group Tour
Accommodation
Hotel
Age Range
18-99 yrs
Operated in
english
Destinations
Toronto, Calgary, Qaanaaq, Nuuss
Toronto, Calgary, Qaanaaq, Nuussuaq, Reykjavik, Resolute, Devon Island, Smith Sound
