the Heritage Museum at Hnjótur, which showcases the history of everyday life in the Westfjords. If weather conditions are favorable, we aim to take guests heli flightseeing during our time in the Westfjords. DAYS 7 & 8 | NORTHERN ICELAND (NOROURLAND): WATERFALLS, LAVA FIELDS AND GEOTHERMAL AREAS Iceland is truly a land of contrasts. This becomes increasingly evident over the next two days as our coach bus follows the iconic Diamond Circle route. You’ll soon learn that the north of Iceland, with its long valleys and peninsulas, is interspersed with mountains, lava fields, and smooth hills carved out over time by the unceasing river flow. Many first- time visitors to the region are surprised to discover that the deep and numerous indentations along the northern coasts are alternately lush with vegetation—or completely barren. Your sense of awe will be intensified as we approach the
Arctic Circle and the captivating brilliance of the midnight sun. Prepare to be overwhelmed by some of the most impressive waterfalls in Europe: Dettifoss (unrivalled in its thunderous roar), the historic Goðafoss (also known as “Waterfall of the Gods”) and the beautiful Aldeyjarfoss (which cascades 20 meters over a wall of hexagonal basalt columns). You’ll be equally awestruck by the spectacular Kolugljúfur and Jökulsárgljúfur gorges, the rocky sea stacks of Hvítserk and Stórakarl, the horseshoe-shaped Ásbyrgi Canyon, the geological wonders of Mývatn and the lava fields of Dimmuborgir—which appeared in numerous scenes in “Game of Thrones.” Anticipate some surreal moments at Hverir, where you’ll witness bubbling mud pots and geothermal vents, and likewise at Skútustaðir, where you’ll encounter pseudocraters, volcanic features formed not by eruptions but by steam from underground.
You can also fulfill a polar milestone on this voyage by crossing the Arctic Circle. In fact, you’ll get to visit the small island of Grímsey (population: 70), which is the only part of Iceland that lies within the Arctic Circle. Expect to see large populations of puffins. While the stunning scenery will prompt you to reach for your camera over and over again, we invite you to stand still for a moment, put down your device, and simply embrace the wonder of this enchanting landscape. DAYS 9 & 10 | EAST ICELAND (AUSTURLAND): FJORDS, MOUNTAINS AND HELICOPTERS East Iceland is characterized by fantastic scenery, featuring deep narrow fjords, and tall mountains. The region is home to the country's largest forest (Hallormsstaðaskógur), lush farmlands and plenty of streams and mountains. Thanks to the abundant fjords and their natural harbors, picturesque fishing
Call your Travel Professional or a Quark Polar Travel Adviser at 1.888.892.0073 | Visit QuarkExpeditions.com for additional details
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