Uncommon Experiences in Iceland With National Geographic-Lindblad Expeditions

Iceland, where travellers could easily fall in love by only seeing a few gems, offers more than the Reykjavik and the Golden Circle. 

For those seeking unique and intimate adventures, the National Geographic-Lindblad Expeditions presents experiences that delve deep into the island nation’s rich culture and natural beauty. Between hidden forests, puffin colonies and ancient seafarers, Iceland’s uncommon experiences reveal that there is much more for travellers to enjoy in this destination. 

In the remote Westfjords, visitors can experience the life of a traditional eiderdown farmer. Each summer, around 7,000 common eiders nest here, lining their nests with soft eiderdown. After the ducklings depart, farmers collect the eiderdown, which is cleaned by hand and used to insulate duvets, jackets, spacesuits and arctic-grade sleeping bags. A visit offers travellers insights into the harvesting process from a walkthrough with some of the farmers, a taste of an icelandic rhubarb cake, Hjónabandssæla, and a stop at Europe's smallest post office. ​

Húsavík, sitting on Skjálfandi Bay in Northeastern Iceland, is renowned as the nation's whale-watching capital. From harbor porpoises to majestic blue whales, observers might spot any of the 23 whale species that frequent these waters. The town also houses the Húsavík Whale Museum, dedicated solely to cetaceans, featuring exhibits like the skeleton of an 80-foot female blue whale that beached in Northern Iceland in 2010.

Just east of Húsavík lies Ásbyrgi Canyon, a horseshoe-shaped depression encircled by 300-foot cliffs and filled with birch, willow and mountain ash trees. According to Norse legend, the canyon was formed by the hoofprint of Sleipnir, Odin's eight-legged steed. Others believe it's the capital of Iceland's “hidden people,” the Huldufólk. While exploring, travellers may encounter the elusive arctic fox amidst the glacial river banks. 

For those seeking adventure off the beaten path, a Super Jeep tour through East Iceland's coastal mountains offers access to remote terrains. These 4x4 ATVs are able to navigate challenging landscapes with ease, leading to secluded waterfalls and wildflower-lined trails with breathtaking fjord views.

Grímsey, a remote island surrounded by the Arctic Ocean, offers the opportunity to step across the Arctic Circle. Visitors can take a photo with the Arctic Circle marker, a sculpture called “Orbus et Globus,” which is a seven-ton concrete sphere relocated annually to align with the shifting Arctic Circle. Between April and August, the island becomes a haven for birdlife, hosting around 80,000 pairs of puffins, making it a great experience for bird-watchers who can observe courting, fishing and the raising of their fluffy puffins.

From experiencing the life of a traditional Eiderdown farmer to riding ATVs, these experiences from National Geographic-Lindblad Expeditions invite travellers to delve deeper into Iceland's rich heritage and natural wonders, offering a fresh perspective beyond the usual tourist trails.​ More hidden gems include hiking craters, diving deep into maritime history, witnessing Iceland’s rewilding in local woodlands and rewinding in Skagafjörður. 

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