Iceland & Greece 24 Days
Journey through the land of fire & ice on this Iceland summer program! See awe-inspiring glaciers, geysers, waterfalls, volcanoes, hot springs and lava fields. Led by our amazing staff, who are experts at creating a close, inclusive, family-like group, you will explore Iceland’s natural wonders through activities like rafting, hiking and whale watching. After all of that action in and around the Golden Circle, students will get to unwind at the famous Blue Lagoon geothermal spa. But wait! This high school summer program continues on to Greece, where somewhere between stand-up paddleboarding in Paros, kayaking around Santorini and exploring Athens, you’ll realize that this adventure is unlike any other!
Experience new cultures and thrilling activities in a smaller, tight-knit travel group.
Hotels
Includes breakfast & dinner daily.
Includes all recreation & activities listed.
Private motor coach and occasional public transportation such as ferry and bus.
Up to 25 participants.
We can accommodate most dietary preferences and allergies.
Fly overnight to Reykjavík . Once you land, your orientation will officially begin with some of our favorite icebreakers and “get to know you” activities.
Known as ‘smoky bay’ for its natural geysers and geothermal springs, Reykjavík is the northernmost capital of the world and is increasingly well-known for its culture, art, history, and natural beauty. Climb through the Raufarhólshellir lava tubes, relax in a famous Blue Lagoon, raft the Hvítá River and explore Þingvellir National Park, a UNESCO world heritage site. The capital is our base to explore the world’s most magnificent waterfalls, bubbling geysers, black sand beaches and hot springs. It is no surprise that people from around the world flock to the capital and the surrounding areas of the Golden Circle and South Coast to experience these natural wonders.
South Coast
How many rainbows will you spot at Skógafoss and Seljalandsfoss Waterfalls? The natural wonder this program offers continues as you walk by puffins on the Reynisfjara black sand beach. Put on crampons and, with an axe in hand, head up the Sólheimajökull Glacier for a Mountaineering Experience.
Snæfellsnes Peninsula in West Iceland is often referred to as mini Iceland for its dramatic scenery and stunning landscape packed into a 55-mile long surface boasting sheer sea cliffs, mountain peaks, lava fields, volcanic craters, and dramatic glaciers. You’ll hike Eldborg crater, which offers stunning views of Ljósufjöll volcanic system, otherwise known as the mountains of light. Sail from a charming harbor village on a Viking sushi tour. Observe the seal colony at Ytri-Tunga Beach, marvel at the Gerðuberg basalt columns, and walk the awe-inspiring coastal path from Malarrif to Þufubjarg.
Akureyri is on Eyjafjörður, Iceland’s longest and most magnificent fjord, embraced by white tipped mountains, stunning waterfalls and lush countryside. It is the second largest city in Iceland with 18,000 residents and considered the “capital of the north”. Encounter humpback whales and spot white-beaked dolphins as you set out on a whale watching tour. Take a day trip to hike Lake Myvatn, check out the Námaskarð Geothermal Area and hike from the Dimmuborgir Lava Rock Formation to top of Hverfjall Crater. Visit Goðafoss, one of the most beautiful waterfalls in the country.
After the excitement of Akureyri, return to Reykjavik for a day before flying to Greece.
Venture to the heart and soul of Greece and its capital city of Athens. Marvel at the astounding architectural feat of the Parthenon and Acropolis. Swim the turquoise waters during a private sailing charter. See Aphrodite amongst her friends in the New Acropolis Museum just down the hill from where she used to live. Wander through the streets of the Plaka area filled with shops and markets with something for everyone. Take a scenic drive along the western coast of the Attica Peninsula, you will visit the Temple of Poseidon in Cape Sounio before enjoying time on the beautiful beach.
Climb the many steps up to the Palamidi Fortress. Imagine being entertained at the Epidavros Theatre and inspired by the Mycenaean citadel. Relax on Arvanitia Beach.
Ferry across the Aegean Sea to the ancient port town of Parikia. Explore the towns of Naoussa and Parikia with their classic whitewashed and blue-accented houses and historical monasteries and churches. Enjoy an authentic Parian cooking class and marvel at the beauty of the Mediterranean ocean during two days of stand-up paddleboarding and a sunset cruise. This will be a stunning adventure unlike any other!
Once you visit, you'll always remember the signature view of the white-painted houses of Fira, with sheer cliffs, blue skies & sea. Enjoy sunsets over the volcano in this amazing city. Explore the town of Fira with a cable car ride to the port. Voyage across the sea to hike the volcano Nea Kameni and stop to swim in the hot springs that surround it. Enjoy dinner in the town of Oia. Explore the incredible red, white and black sand beaches on our guided sea kayaking excursion and swim in the waters of the Aegean Sea.
Head back to Athens for a banquet dinner and final night of exploration around the Acropolis.
Say farewell to your new friends as you part ways for your return home. The summer might be over, but all the memories you’ve made will last a lifetime!
Reykjavík, Iceland
Hotel Fron and Park Inn offer outstanding locations when visiting Reykjavik. All rooms have Wi-Fi access and a TV.
Snæfellsnes Peninsula, West Iceland
Hotel Hellissandur is ideal for exploring the beautiful Snaefellsnes Peninsula. The property is just a short distance from all of the Snaefellsnes Peninsula's main attractions.
Akureyri, Iceland
Enjoy a cozy stay at Hótel Kjarnalundur. Take in the beautiful views of the Tröllaskagi Mountains from this quaint seaside village.
Athens, Greece
While visiting Athens, we stay at either the Acropolis Select Hotel or Acropolis Hill Hotel, located in the center of Athens. These properties provide comfortable accommodations that are within walking distance of Athens’ famous Plaka Street and the Acropolis.
Nafplio, Greece
The Amalia Hotel Nafplio is located right at the entrance to Nafplio town and is surrounded by alluring gardens with palm trees and flowers. After a day of touring, unwind by the hotel’s beautiful pool and enjoy the peace and serenity this unique environment has to offer.
Paros, Greece
Located in the seaside town of Pounta and right on the island’s beautiful beaches, Selina Paros & Cowork offers a gorgeous space to take advantage of the sun and relaxation that the Greek islands boast.
Santorini, Greece
While in Santorini, we will be staying at either Santorini Palace or Splendour Resort. Both properties are luxury resort hotels located minutes away from the center of the magnificent capital town of Fira.
Flight To Reykjavík, Iceland
Participants on this trip have the option to fly overseas on our chaperoned flight that leaves in the evening from the New York area to Reykjavík. Our leaders greet you at the check-in area and are there to assist you and introduce you to new friends. For the many travelers from outside the New York area, you can choose to join the chaperoned flight and we are happy to assist you with arranging connecting flights at suitable times into New York. You may also choose to meet us in Reykjavík and we will help coordinate your flight times and greet you upon arrival.
Internal Flight
Separate from the airfare to and from this program, there is an additional $975 USD fee for internal flights between Iceland and Greece.
Return Flight Home From Athens, Greece
For your return from Athens, we offer a chaperoned flight to New York. For travelers from outside the New York area, we can help you arrange transfers at the suitable times after the group has cleared customs and immigration or you may fly home directly from Athens to your home city and our leaders help you to check-in and remain in the airport until flights in designated times have departed.
Meals
Breakfasts are at our hotels and dinners are enjoyed out at restaurants. For lunch, you will have the opportunity to eat in smaller groups and to choose from different options in the various towns and cities you’ll be visiting. No matter what, there is always choice and variety.
We have satisfied the choosiest of eaters and gladly accommodate most special dietary requests including vegetarian, food allergies, lactose intolerance, celiac disease, and kosher style. We welcome discussing your individual requirements with you and have extensive experience in this area.
Laundry
You will only need one week’s worth of clothing as outlined in the packing list that will be sent to you prior to departure. Every week you may drop off your laundry at a local wash and fold service and then pick it up clean, folded and ready to go.
What’s Included
Included in your program tuition is all lodging, breakfast and dinner daily, recreation & entertainment listed, airport transfers in designated times, gratuities & taxes.
Not included is transportation to and from the program, lunches, snacks, personal spending money for souvenirs, and laundry. We also make available optional travel insurance that is not included, but highly recommended.
Please contact us with any questions. We are happy to hear from you!
Who are the staff and what are their qualifications?
Our staff are educators, guidance counselors, coaches, college and university students, former camp counselors, residence life coordinators, community volunteers, world travelers, and other leaders with diverse backgrounds. Many are former participants themselves who couldn’t get enough of the Westcoast experience! Learn more about our summer leaders.
What if I need to contact my teen during the program?
Participants may bring their cell phones so parents may call and message their kids directly. You may also contact our Communication Centers which serve as the official link between programs on the road and parents. We are staffed every day during the summer and have somebody on call for after hours emergencies ready to assist you 24/7.
What is the difference between an Active Teen Tour and a Global Adventure program?
Our Active Teen Tours offer larger group sizes (generally 35-48 participants) and travel in deluxe motor coaches. Accommodations include quality hotels and occasional fun college residences.
Global Adventures are smaller group experiences (generally up to 26 participants). Groups travel by private motor coaches and occasional public transportation internationally, and use passenger vans in the USA. The France, Switzerland and Italy itinerary travels exclusively by train and public transportation. While these programs have a slightly bigger focus on adventure travel, we stay in quality hotels and lodges, always ensuring a good night’s rest.
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