13-Day Iceland Geology Adventure Guided Tour from Reykjavík

Planning a trip to Iceland often means dreaming of its dramatic volcanic landscapes, glaciers, and immense waterfalls — but what if you could deepen that experience with expert insights into how these marvels formed? This 13-day guided tour, led by renowned geologists Dr. Tamie Jovanelly and her husband Joey Cook, promises to do just that. It combines immersive outdoor exploration with engaging lectures, all while offering an authentic slice of Icelandic culture and natural beauty.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the expert-led educational component—Dr. Jovanelly’s deep knowledge and her bestselling book make geology come alive. Second, the extensive itinerary covers iconic sites like Thingvellir, Jokulsarlon, and Dettifoss, ensuring you’ll see Iceland’s most spectacular sights. And third, the focus on active exploration—from glacier hikes to lava cave explorations—means you’ll experience the land rather than just look at it.

A potential consideration? The tour’s price of $9,200 can seem steep, but when you factor in all the included excursions, expert guidance, and the small group size (max 16 travelers), it offers significant value for those passionate about geology or seeking a tailored adventure. This is best suited for curious travelers who love learning while exploring, and are comfortable with a physically active schedule.

Whether you’re a seasoned geologist or simply someone eager to understand Iceland’s volcanic story, this tour offers a balanced mix of education, adventure, and authentic insights—making it perfect for the curious traveler who wants more than just sightseeing.

Key Points

• Expert guides: Led by Dr. Jovanelly, an accomplished author and researcher, ensuring accurate, engaging explanations.
• Comprehensive itinerary: Covers Iceland’s key geological sites, waterfalls, glaciers, volcanoes, and cultural landmarks.
• Active experiences: Glacier hikes, lava cave explorations, and walks between tectonic plates add hands-on learning.
• All-inclusive pricing: Excursion fees, entry tickets, and activities are included, simplifying planning.
• Small group dynamic: Limited to 16 travelers, fostering personalized attention and camaraderie.
• Authentic, immersive: Combines stunning scenery with in-depth geology, making each stop educational and visually breathtaking.

An In-Depth Look at the Iceland Geology Tour

Starting in Reykjavík: A City Introduction

Your journey kicks off in Reykjavik, with a short walk to meet your guides and fellow travelers. This is the perfect chance to get a feel for Iceland’s vibrant capital and settle in before heading out into the wild. The initial gathering sets a friendly tone, and the walk to the group dinner helps establish a relaxed vibe among the small group of travelers who share your interest in geology and adventure.

Relaxation and Recent Volcano Activity: Blue Lagoon & Fagradalsfjall

On your second day, the tour balances relaxation and awe. The Blue Lagoon provides a welcome break from jet lag — imagine soaking in geothermal waters surrounded by lava fields, a quintessential Icelandic experience. As you unwind, your guides will start sharing insights about Iceland’s volcanic activity.

Later, a visit to Fagradalsfjall Volcano offers a front-row seat to Iceland’s recent volcanic eruptions. The last eruption here was a spectacular show, and seeing the fresh lava flows and volcanic terrain will give you a tangible sense of Iceland’s fiery nature. Reviewers highlight how this site is a highlight, with one describing it as “one of Iceland’s most recent volcanic activity” that’s both accessible and fascinating.

Geothermal Energy and Tectonic Plates

The third day dives into Iceland’s geothermal power, with a visit to the Hellisheidi Power Plant. This facility showcases how Iceland harnesses its volcanic energy for clean power, an aspect many travelers find surprisingly inspiring. The Bridge Between Continents offers a literal and visual boundary between North America and Eurasia, standing on a rift that’s continually pulling apart — a sight that makes the tectonic processes feel real. Reviewers describe Stampar as “unlike any other crater field,” emphasizing the landscape’s surreal quality.

The Heart of Iceland’s Tectonic and Cultural Heritage

Visiting Thingvellir National Park is a highlight, especially for its significance in both geology and history. Here, the plates are visibly diverging, and the site of early Viking settlements adds a human dimension to the landscape. As one reviewer notes, “learning about how the plates are spreading apart and Viking settlements was fascinating.” The tours also include Gullfoss, one of Europe’s most powerful waterfalls, and Geysir, where geothermal activity heats up the landscape with erupting geysers.

Volcanology and New Discoveries

The Lava Centre provides a modern, interactive learning environment, perfect for understanding Iceland’s volcanic past and present. Visiting Hekla, one of Iceland’s most active and feared volcanoes, helps contextualize recent eruptions and ongoing volcanic activity. Reviewers mention how guides’ explanations make Hekla’s history accessible, even for those with a casual interest.

Glacier Hiking and Iceberg Marvels

Skaftafell National Park’s glacier hike is a true adventure, with a guided three-hour walk across icy terrain. The scenery is breathtaking, and the small group size ensures personalized safety and instruction. Afterward, a wine and cheese reception offers a well-earned break.

Next, the Fjallsarlon Iceberg Lagoon, Diamond Beach, and Jokulsarlon showcase Iceland’s icy masterpieces. The chance to see seals and birdlife adds a wildlife component, and the floating icebergs are mesmerizing. Reviews note how these sites are “a different view of the glacier — from the water,” making for memorable photos and awe-inspiring moments.

Northern Wonders and Unique Geology

Moving north, Dettifoss, Europe’s most powerful waterfall, impresses with its raw power and exposed basalt columns. The journey continues with visits to Hverfjall, a massive crater, and Dimmuborgir, a volcanic lava labyrinth whose origins are debated, adding a layer of intrigue.

Cultural and Scenic Highlights

A free day in Akureyri allows for rest, shopping, or optional activities like whale watching, making the trip flexible for different interests. The visit to Stykkisholmur offers artistic insights, especially at the Water Museum, which links Iceland’s glaciers to cultural memory.

Snaefellsnes Peninsula: Volcanoes and Lava Caves

Finally, the Snaefellsnes Peninsula delivers stunning views of Snaefellsjokull Glacier and the stratovolcano that dominates the landscape. Exploring the Vatnshellir Lava Cave adds a subterranean adventure, revealing how lava tubes form. The park’s beauty, combined with the guided tour, makes this a fitting conclusion to your geological journey.

Practical Details That Matter

Transportation and Group Size: The tour operates with a small group cap of 16 travelers. This setup means more personalized attention and less time waiting for others, creating a more intimate experience. The transportation is comfortable, accommodating all the diverse sites efficiently, which is important given Iceland’s vast and sometimes remote locations.

Timing and Duration: Each day is thoughtfully scheduled, balancing sightseeing with active exploration. Most hikes and tours are several hours long but include breaks and opportunities for photos and rest. For example, the glacier hike is around 3 hours, giving you enough time to truly get a feel for the ice without feeling rushed.

Cost and Value: At $9,200, the price includes all excursions, entrance fees, and guided activities, which adds up considering the number of sites visited. The guides’ expertise, particularly Dr. Jovanelly’s, is a major value-add, turning geological facts into engaging stories.

Weather and Cancellations: Iceland’s weather can be unpredictable. The tour is weather-dependent, but if canceled, you’ll be offered a different date or full refund. This flexibility provides peace of mind.

Why This Tour Might Be Perfect for You

This adventure is ideal if you’re passionate about geology, natural sciences, or outdoor exploration. The guides’ extensive knowledge ensures you’ll learn more than just surface-level facts, making the scenery come alive with meaning. The active itinerary also suits travelers who enjoy hiking and physical activity, as glacier walks and lava cave explorations are part of the experience.

If you’re traveling with a curious, adventurous spirit and want to see Iceland beyond the typical tourist spots, this tour offers a tailored, educational, and genuinely memorable journey. It’s perfect for those who value small group sizes, expert guidance, and authentic experiences.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for beginners in geology?
Yes. You don’t need a background in geology — guides will explain concepts in an accessible way, and most activities are suitable for active travelers regardless of expertise.

What is included in the price?
All excursion fees, entry tickets, and active experiences like glacier hikes and lava cave tours are included. It’s a comprehensive package that minimizes additional costs.

How physically active is the tour?
Expect some active exploration, including hiking on glaciers and walking through lava fields. The schedule is designed to be manageable, but a good level of fitness will enhance your experience.

Can I participate if I have mobility issues?
While most activities are outdoors and involve walking or hiking, some sites might require mobility. It’s best to contact the provider for specific accommodations.

What makes this tour different from other Iceland trips?
The focus on geology, led by an expert author and researcher, sets it apart. The small group size, active explorations, and inclusion of all excursion fees also make for a more personalized and hassle-free experience.

Are meals included?
The itinerary mentions a group dinner and a wine and cheese reception, but not full meals. Travelers should plan for some meals on their own.

What is the best time to take this tour?
While the specific dates aren’t listed here, Iceland’s weather varies, and the tour likely runs during the warmer months when outdoor exploration is easiest. The mention of July 2025 suggests summer is ideal for optimal weather and accessibility.

Final Thoughts

This 13-day Iceland Geology Adventure offers a carefully curated blend of science, scenery, and activity. Led by experts with a passion for their field, the tour turns Iceland’s landscapes into a living classroom. Travelers will leave with a deeper understanding of volcanic and tectonic processes, along with unforgettable views of waterfalls, glaciers, and lava fields.

It’s perfect for geology enthusiasts, adventurous travelers, or anyone eager to explore Iceland’s dramatic natural features with knowledgeable guides. The small-group format and all-inclusive pricing mean you can focus on enjoying the experience without surprises.

If you’re looking for a trip that combines learning and adventure in one of the world’s most visually stunning landscapes, this tour is a compelling choice. Just be prepared for physical activity, variable weather, and a whole lot of awe-inspiring geology.

Note: Since this is a non-refundable tour, ensure your travel plans are flexible or well-confirmed before booking.