Geography & Environmental Studies in Iceland
Take your students on the trip of a lifetime to this geographical wonder. Located in the North Atlantic Ocean, it sits on the Mid-Atlantic Ridge, creating around 130 volcanic mountains. Although many of these now lie dormant, there have been several recent high profile eruptions in 2010 and 2011. The interior of the island largely consists of mountains, glaciers and ice fields with many glacial rivers flowing through the lowlands. The island is warmed by the Gulf Stream giving the island a temperate climate despite having high latitude, lying just outside the Arctic Circle. These factors give Iceland an incredibly diverse array of wildlife including many species of whales that follow the Gulf, a wide range of bird life and the rare Arctic Fox. Iceland is home to a wide selection of geysers and hot springs, which has led to the creation of many thermal baths that can be enjoyed on a cold day. Reykjavik is the world’s northernmost capital city and has something to offer to every visitor, whether you have come to Iceland for an exciting experience whale watching and walking or just to relax in the thermal spas.
Our Iceland Itinerary can include a variety of visits including:
- Blue Lagoon - One of the top attractions in Iceland is a beautiful lagoon which is part of a large lava formation. The warm waters are rich in sulphur and silica and are said to help ease aches and pains and skin ailments. The water temperature ranges for 37-39° Celsius, sure to keep you warm on those cold days.
- Hveragerði - A small town to the East of Reykjavik is surrounded by interesting features. The surrounding area is part of the Hengill volcano and experiences frequent (very minor) earthquakes. The town is known for its greenhouses which are heated by volcanic hot springs. There is a borehole on the way to the Gufudalur Valley that is erupting continuously at heights of ten to twelve meters.
- The Reykjanes peninsula - South West of the island is an area of high volcanic activity and an unmissable visit for any geography/geology student. The area is defined by its numerous hot springs and lakes. The Moilina Bridge crosses the Rift Valley, which defines the boundary between the Eurasian and North American Continental tectonic plates making it a particular area of interest. The area makes a fantastic day trip from the capital with stunning scenery and fascinating geographical features unique to the area.
- The Golden Circle - This is a popular day trip in the South of Iceland, where students will visit three points of interest. The route passes through the Pingvellir national park, the Gullfoss Waterfall and the Haukadalur Valley, which contains two active geysers. Other stops can be organised along the way, depending on your preferred itinerary. This trip gives your student the opportunity to see rivers, mountains, glaciers, waterfalls and geysers. It truly is one of the most geographically diverse and fascinating areas in the world!
Other Geography & Environmental Studies Excursions
Reykjavik
Skaftafell
South Shore Adventure
Thorsmork Valley
