13-Day Iceland Geology Adventure Guided Tour from Reykjavík

Exploring the Land of Fire and Ice with a Geology Twist

If you’re someone who can’t get enough of volcanic landscapes, tectonic plate boundaries, and glaciers, then this 13-day Iceland geology adventure might just be your dream trip. Led by Dr. Jovanelly, an author of well-respected geology books, and her husband Joe Cook, this tour offers an in-depth look at Iceland’s jaw-dropping scenery, all for a hefty $9,200 per person. It’s a serious commitment, but what you get in return is a comprehensive, expert-led exploration of the island’s most spectacular geological features.

What sets this tour apart from the crowd? First, it’s led by someone who truly knows her stuff—Dr. Jovanelly has been researching and leading trips since 2006, and her book on Iceland’s geology is a best-seller. Second, the active nature of the trip—from glacier hikes to lava cave explorations—ensures you’re not just sitting on a bus. We loved how the focus on hands-on learning makes the experience feel authentic and engaging. A possible downside? The price might be steep for some travelers, but the included excursions and expert guidance considerably boost the value.

This journey suits geology buffs, adventure seekers, and curious travelers willing to invest in a deep dive into Iceland’s dramatic landscapes. Even if you’re not a geology expert, the enthusiastic and friendly guides ensure you’ll leave inspired and with a new appreciation for Iceland’s natural wonders.

Key Points

• Expert-led tours with Dr. Jovanelly, a published author and experienced Iceland researcher.
• Active exploration including glacier hikes, lava cave visits, and scenic walks.
• Inclusive costs covering all excursion fees, making logistics easier and more straightforward.
• Diverse highlights from geysers and waterfalls to glacier lagoons and volcanic craters.
• Small group size (max 16 travelers) for a more personal, flexible experience.
• Rich educational content tailored to both geology enthusiasts and curious travelers.

A Deep Dive into the Icelandic Landscape

This tour offers a comprehensive route around Iceland, taking in volcanic sites, tectonic boundaries, glaciers, and waterfalls, all with a focus on understanding how the island’s landscapes are formed. It’s perfect for travelers eager to connect the dots between geological processes and the scenery that makes Iceland such a unique destination.

Reykjavik and First Impressions

The journey begins in Reykjavik, where we get a quick taste of the city’s vibe before diving into the natural wonders. We appreciated that the initial exploration is relaxed—just enough time to settle in and enjoy a group dinner. This sets a friendly tone, especially since the guides, Tamie and Joey, are described as fun and knowledgeable, creating a welcoming atmosphere.

The Geology Focus Begins: Fagradalsfjall and Hellisheidi

The Blue Lagoon offers a chance to unwind after flying in, and then it’s straight to Fagradalsfjall, where recent volcanic activity makes the landscape come alive. Witnessing new lava flows and volcanic formations is an experience that no photo can fully capture. Reviewers often mention being blown away by how recent eruptions are integrated into the tour, making the landscape feel fresh and dynamic.

Later, the Hellisheidi Power Plant introduces geothermal energy and carbon capture technologies—an aspect that adds depth to the tour by highlighting Iceland’s sustainable energy initiatives.

Tectonic Marvels and Waterfalls

A highlight for many is the visit to Thingvellir National Park, where the rift between the North American and Eurasian plates is visible and palpable. The walk through this UNESCO site reveals the power of tectonic plates pulling apart and shaping the land. Several reviewers mention how this is “one of my favorite tectonic spots,” with the landscape offering tangible proof of the Earth’s movements.

Following this, the famous Gullfoss Falls and Geysir geyser showcase Iceland’s volcanic heat, with plenty of opportunities to marvel at raw power in nature. The geyser’s boiling hot springs are a reminder that Iceland is still very much a land of active geology.

Volcanoes and Lava Fields

At the Lava Centre, we get an interactive lesson on volcanology—perfect for visual learners and those wanting to understand eruptions better. Visiting Hekla, one of Iceland’s most active volcanoes, allows us to learn about recent activity and the volcano’s history. Reviewers note that sitting in Hekla’s shadow and hearing about its eruptions adds a sense of awe.

Glacial Adventures and Iceberg Lagoons

The Skaftafell National Park offers a guided glacier hike that spans about three hours, giving us a close-up look at ice formations, crevasses, and the sheer scale of Iceland’s glaciers. Post-hike, the guides host a wine and cheese reception—a thoughtful touch that lets us unwind and reflect on the glacier experience.

Next, we visit Fjallsarlon and Jokulsarlon, where floating icebergs and seals create a surreal scene. The view of icebergs drifting out to sea from Diamond Beach is a visual feast—an Instagram favorite, but also a genuine natural spectacle.

North Iceland’s Waterfalls and Pseudo Craters

In the north, Dettifoss provides a thunderous display of water and exposed columnar basalt formations, which are a geologist’s delight. Moving on, Hverfjall crater and Skutustaoagigar pseudo craters offer further insights into volcanic activity and its impact on the landscape, with the latter explained as impacting the Viking settlements historically.

The Final Days: West and Snaefellsnes

The charming town of Akureyri offers a well-deserved free day—whether you choose rest, shopping, or whale watching. In the west, Stykkisholmur, the Water Museum, and the Snaefellsjokull National Park complete the trip with stunning views of glaciers and volcanic formations. Exploring a lava tube at Vatnshellir gives that feeling of stepping into the Earth’s interior, while the glacier itself is a reminder of Iceland’s ongoing volcanic and glacial interplay.

The Experience: What Travelers Say

Reviewers consistently praise the guides’ expertise, describing Tamie and Joey as friendly, fun, and deeply knowledgeable. Several highlight that even those without a geology background come away fascinated, a testament to how engaging and accessible the guides make complex topics.

Many mention how the landscapes are breathtaking—from waterfalls and geysers to glaciers and volcanic craters—and how the active nature of the trip keeps things exciting. The small group size (up to 16 travelers) fosters a more personalized experience, allowing for spontaneous conversations and better access to sites.

The overall sentiment is that this tour is well-organized, educational, and fun. One reviewer summed it up well: “If you’re looking to learn about Iceland’s geology, see amazing scenery, and have fun, this is it.”

Price and Value

While the tour’s cost may seem high, many reviews argue that the value lies in the expert guidance, inclusiveness of excursions, and the immersive nature of the experience. The fact that all excursion fees are included simplifies budgeting, eliminating surprise costs.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This Iceland adventure appeals most to geology enthusiasts or adventure travelers eager to see Iceland’s landscapes through a scientific lens. It’s also perfect for those who want a small, well-led group and prefer active days over passive sightseeing. If you’re interested in learning about volcanoes, glaciers, and tectonic plates, and enjoy a mix of sightseeing and hands-on exploration, this trip will resonate deeply.

However, the price tag might be a consideration for budget travelers, and the physical demands of glacier hikes and cave explorations should be taken into account.

The Sum Up: Who Is This Tour Best For?

If you’re a curious traveler who values expert insights and wants to see and understand Iceland’s geological features firsthand, this tour offers exceptional value. It’s especially suitable for adventure lovers and geology buffs who appreciate active exploration and small group intimacy. The knowledgeable guides, engaging itinerary, and included excursions make this a comprehensive, educational, and memorable way to experience Iceland’s natural beauty.

For those looking for a more relaxed, less intensive option, this tour might be too packed or expensive. But for anyone eager to connect with the land’s deep volcanic roots and experience Iceland’s stunning scenery up close, this is a rare opportunity to learn, explore, and have fun in a setting unlike any other.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for people without a geology background?
Absolutely. The guides, especially Tamie and Joey, are known for making complex geological concepts understandable and engaging, even for beginners.

What kind of active experiences are included?
Expect glacier hikes, lava cave explorations, and walking tours of tectonic rift zones. The trip emphasizes hands-on learning and physical exploration.

Are all excursions included in the price?
Yes, all excursion fees are included, which simplifies planning and budgeting and ensures you won’t face unexpected costs.

How many people are on the tour?
The group is limited to 16 travelers, fostering a more intimate and flexible experience.

What kind of travel pace should I expect?
It’s a full itinerary with early mornings, lots of sightseeing, and active excursions, so be prepared for a busy but rewarding trip.

Is it suitable for families or older travelers?
While most travelers can participate, the active parts might be challenging for those with mobility issues or very young children. Always check with the provider for specific needs.

What makes this tour stand out from other Iceland trips?
The focus on geology, led by a published expert, combined with active exploration and small group size, makes it uniquely immersive and educational.

Can I join the trip if I only want to learn about Iceland’s landscapes, not geology?
Yes. Enthusiastic guides ensure that curious travelers of all backgrounds will find the experience rewarding, even if their primary interest isn’t geology.

This 13-day Iceland geology tour offers a remarkable balance of education, adventure, and scenery. Whether you’re a geology nerd or simply someone who wants to see Iceland’s stunning landscapes up close and understand how they formed, you’ll find plenty to love here. Just be ready for a trip that’s both physically engaging and visually breathtaking—an experience you’ll want to remember for a lifetime.