Depart Reykjavik early this morning and follow the route of the Golden Circle. Visit Pingvellir National Park – the site of Iceland's first parliament, founded in AD 930 and a geological wonder, where the American and Eurasian tectonic plates are pulling apart. If you notice a big ridge of water in the landscape, you’re probably looking at the Silfra fissure! Next, head to Iceland's Geysir geothermal area, where you'll see the Strokkur geyser shoot water 30 m into the air. Witness the sheer power of the Gullfoss Waterfall (also known as Golden Falls) before continuing to the Hvolsvollur Valley, where you'll spend the night on an Icelandic farm that’s been converted into a guesthouse. Far away from the city lights, the guesthouse is an ideal base to try and spot the Northern Lights. If the skies are clear tonight, why not take a stroll out into the snow and look skywards for the dancing green lights.

Start the day with a trip to the Skogafoss waterfall – one of the biggest waterfalls in Iceland, Skogafoss is 25 m wide and drops 60 m. To get close, maybe climb the long, windy set of stairs up to the scenic viewpoint. On a sunny day, you should be able to spot a rainbow or two in the spray. Continue along Iceland's South Shore to take in more of the country’s renowned natural wonders. From the stepping-stone rock formations of Reynisdrangar, the promontory of Dyrholaey, and the night black sand beach of Reynisfjara, this is one of the country's most scenic regions. This afternoon, visit the famous Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon – a sea of floating icebergs whose blue contrast with the charcoal sands of the beach. Stop for the night at a farm stay on the South Coast. Weather permitting, there will be another opportunity to step outside and witness the natural wonders of the Northern Lights tonight.

Today, go for a hike on Europe's biggest ice cap, Vatnajokull, which has around 30 glaciers flowing out of it. The glacier is retreating due to rising world temperatures, and in a few years, the glacier may be gone. Alternatively, you can just walk to the glacier's tongue or return to the glacial lagoon at Jokulsarlon or Fjallsarlon. If you would prefer a more relaxing morning, you can explore the farm stay and head to the Thorbergur Centre. Later, journey to the black sand town of Vik. With the sea on one side and high cliffs on the other, this dramatically positioned village is Iceland's most southerly mainland settlement.

Make your way to the beautiful waterfall of Seljalandsfoss, then it’s back to Reykjavik. When you arrive, take a short walk of the city, to the old harbour, the city centre and the famous Hallgrimskirkja Church. After, maybe browse some of the city's great art galleries. If you haven't seen the Northern Lights yet, you could head out of town to chase them again this evening, or head for a soak in the geothermal waters of the famous Blue Lagoon. Tonight, maybe gather your fellow adventurers and celebrate the end of the adventure with dinner.

There are no further activities scheduled after breakfast today and it’s time to say 'sjaumst'. If you'd like to extend your stay and book yourself on a Silfra Fissure snorkelling adventure, just get in touch with your booking agent ahead of time.

1. A single supplement is available if you’d prefer not to share a room on this trip. The single supplement applies to all nights of your trip and is subject to availability. Please note that due to the small properties we use in Europe there is only a limited amount of single supplements available per trip departure. Please speak to your booking agent for further information.

2. Iceland can be an expensive destination in many ways, from museum entrance fees to outdoor activities, but especially in terms of eating out. Your leader will be able to advise on how to save money. In remote areas the only option for dinner will be at the guesthouse we are staying at. Stock up on food at a supermarket prior to arrival if you would like to opt out eating at the guesthouse's restaurant. Please make sure you read the trip notes carefully in order to know what is and what isn't included in the trip price.