Solar Eclipse
Erupting geysers at Geysir
Starting at $7,495 per person
Embark on an unforgettable journey through Iceland’s dynamic landscapes, guided by the scientific expertise of renowned geophysicist Dr. Michael Wysession. This immersive itinerary blends natural wonder with intellectual discovery, offering travelers a rare opportunity to explore the forces that shape our planet—from geothermal energy and glacial movement to volcanic activity and tectonic drift—and culminates with one of the most striking planetary events: a solar eclipse. Each day features hands-on experiences and in-depth commentary from Professor Wysession, whose engaging storytelling brings Iceland’s unique geology and climate science to life. Experience a once-in-a-lifetime total solar eclipse, viewed from a remote lava field along the path of totality. With a reception at the Aurora Basecamp and a pre-eclipse lecture by Professor Wysession, you’ll gain a deeper understanding of celestial mechanics and the cosmic choreography behind this awe-inspiring event. Whether you're a curious traveler or a lifelong learner, this expedition promises both inspiration and illumination beneath Iceland’s ever-changing skies.
Experience a total solar eclipse during a private viewing event at a lava-field basecamp, perfectly situated in the zone of totality. Enjoy expert commentary, live music, and a celebratory dinner reception.
Discover geothermal innovation at Hellisheiði Power Plant, home to the groundbreaking CarbFix project that turns carbon into stone. Learn how Iceland harnesses Earth’s heat and runs almost entirely on renewable energy. Then, experience Iceland’s geothermal wonders with bread baked beneath the earth.
Traverse a lave tube and explore Iceland’s dramatic South Coast, featuring stunning glacier-fed waterfalls and rugged volcanic rock formations.
Michael Wysession is a Professor of Geophysics and the Executive Director of the Center for Teaching and Learning at Washington University in St. Louis. Wysession is a world leader in seismology, using earthquake seismic waves to create three-dimensional images of Earth’s interior, and a leader in geoscience literacy and education. He has coauthored more than 100 research papers and 35 textbooks, grade school to graduate school. Wysession chaired NSF’s Earth Science Literacy Initiative, as well as the Earth and Space science for both the National Academy of Science report A Framework for K-12 Science Education and the K-12 Next Generation Science Standards, adopted by 45 US states. He has been an editor of five geophysical journals and is currently editor-in-chief of the journal Perspectives of Earth and Space Scientists. An authority and frequent lecturer on critical Earth-related issues, Wysession has produced three popular series with The Great Courses: How the Earth Works, The World’s Greatest Geological Wonders, and The Science of Energy: Resources and Power Explained, and he has contributed lectures to Polar Explorations.
Reykjavik
Welcome to Iceland! Upon arrival at Keflavík International Airport, transfer to Reykjavik, a city where Nordic charm meets cutting-edge sustainability and modern innovation. This afternoon, you’ll explore the capital on a guided walking tour, visiting iconic sites like Hallgrímskirkja Church and the Harpa Concert Hall. As you stroll through the city, begin to uncover the geological and cultural forces that have shaped this island nation. In the evening, gather for a welcome dinner featuring seasonal Icelandic cuisine. Your Great Courses Journeys expert, Professor Michael Wysession, a renowned geophysicist and science communicator, will share insights about Iceland’s volcanic origins, tectonic activity, and astronomical significance—laying the foundation for the days ahead.
Included Meal: Dinner
Accommodations: Fosshotel Reykjavik
Your day begins at the Hellisheiði Power Plant, where Iceland’s geothermal energy is harnessed to power homes and industries. Learn about the innovative CarbFix project, which turns carbon emissions into stone—an environmental breakthrough Professor Wysession will place in the context of global climate solutions. Continue to Laugarvatn to sample rye bread baked beneath the earth. Then visit Friðheimar Farm, where tomatoes thrive in greenhouses heated by volcanic warmth. After that, enjoy a fresh, greenhouse-to-table lunch featuring fresh tomatoes at a nearby farm. In the afternoon, explore the Golden Circle’s geological marvels, including the erupting geysers at Geysir and the tectonic rift at Thingvellir National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. As you stand on the dividing line of two continental plates, Professor Wysession will explain the dynamic forces at play beneath your feet, bringing Iceland’s seismic story vividly to life.
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Accommodations: Fosshotel Reykjavik
Skógafoss waterfall
Travel along Iceland’s dramatic South Shore today, where waterfalls, volcanoes, and glaciers define the landscape. Begin at Seljalandsfoss, a waterfall you can walk behind, then continue past the Eyjafjallajökull volcano to Sólheimajökull Glacier. Here, gear up for a guided glacier walk across ice-carved terrain. As you explore, learn how glaciers form, move, and melt—linking your experience to the broader story of climate change and Earth’s evolving systems. After a group lunch near the stunning Skógafoss waterfall, return to Reykjavik for an evening at leisure. Throughout the day, Professor Wysession’s commentary will deepen your understanding of Iceland’s ever-changing landscape and the geologic forces that shape it.
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Accommodations: Fosshotel Reykjavik
Aurora Basecamp
Begin the day with a visit to Raufarholshellir, a vast lava tunnel formed by ancient eruptions. Walk through this subterranean world where lava once flowed as Professor Wysession explains the volcanic processes that created it. After a midday break, continue to the Aurora Basecamp, a remote lava field along the eclipse’s path of totality. Enjoy a reception with live music and refreshments. Before the eclipse, Professor Wysession and other experts will share a wealth of scientific background about solar eclipses, celestial mechanics, and Iceland’s unique vantage point for viewing this rare event. Then, witness the total solar eclipse—from 4:47 to 6:47 p.m. GMT, with 2 minutes and 18 seconds of totality at 6:08 p.m. Celebrate with a farewell dinner under Iceland’s twilight sky.
Note: Eclipse visibility is weather-dependent. While the Aurora Basecamp is located along the path of totality, viewing cannot be guaranteed.
Included Meals: Breakfast, Dinner, Reception
Accommodations: Fosshotel Reykjavik
Castello Verrazzano
Today, Professor Albala will offer a grand overview of the history of Italian cuisine from ancient times to the present and its impact globally. Travel south through the scenic Chianti hills to Castello Verrazzano today. As you approach the hilltop location of this award-winning winery, be sure to admire the breathtaking views of cypress-lined roads and terraced vineyards. Explore the historic castle, once home to the famed explorer Giovanni da Verrazzano, and wander through the ancient cellars as you learn about the estate’s commitment to sustainability. The experience concludes with a tasting of their acclaimed wines. Professor Albala will discuss Florence’s role in global trade, including that of both Verrazzano and Amerigo Vespucci. Later, enjoy free time in Siena, strolling through the medieval streets, visiting the picturesque Piazza del Campo and the magnificently decorated cathedral, or exploring artisan shops. Meet at a local grocery store, operating since 1879, for a tasting of Siena’s historic sweets, including the richly spiced panforte, dating back to medieval times, and the soft almond ricciarelli cookies. Return to Florence in the early evening. Gather for a farewell dinner at the family-run Trattoria Cammillo.
Included Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Accommodations: Hotel Cellai
This morning, bid farewell to the Andes as you take a short flight from Cusco to Lima. From there, connect to your international flights home.
Included Meals: Breakfast
Fosshotel Reykjavik - 5 nights
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