Program Directed by
Julian Hartmann-Russell
If you have questions or would like to talk further about this program, please get in touch!
Discover Iceland’s dramatic landscapes on this high school summer exploration program. Travel from Reykjavík to the remote Westfjords to hike among calving glaciers, active volcanoes, and thundering waterfalls. Explore craggy lava fields, learn about Icelandic folklore and Viking history, and look for Arctic fox pups in one of Europe’s last true wilderness areas. Take advantage of long summer days and bright northern nights to experience the best of the Land of Fire and Ice.
- Program Highlights
• Strap on crampons and trek atop Snæfellsjokull Glacier with professional guides
• Hike across black-sand beaches and ride Icelandic horses along a fjord
• Discover towering waterfalls, spouting geysers, and bubbling mud pots
• Kayak through pristine fjords and scout for puffins, whales, and seals
• Hike across black-sand beaches and ride Icelandic horses along a fjord
• Discover towering waterfalls, spouting geysers, and bubbling mud pots
• Kayak through pristine fjords and scout for puffins, whales, and seals
“I had the time of my life. I hiked, challenged myself, saw amazing views, and gained friendships that will last me a lifetime.”
—Katelyn Ramona C., Palm Harbor University High School, New York, NY
Itinerary
This itinerary represents our best projection of the group’s schedule. However, we may implement changes designed to improve the quality of the program.
Departure — Travel Day
Meet your fellow high school student travelers and one or more of your leaders in New York, and fly together to Reykjavík, Iceland. To learn more about how we organize travel, click here.
Reykjavík & the Golden Circle — 2 days
Dive right into your program with a swim in Iceland’s most famous geothermal pool, the Blue Lagoon, and get to know your group during an in-depth orientation in Reykjavík. Experience interactive exhibits at the Perlan or explore the ruins of a Viking household excavated beneath the city streets at the Settlement Exhibition. From the futuristic, glass-walled Harpa concert hall and harborfront to the many local eateries and cutting-edge historical museums, take time to explore this colorful and welcoming capital city that is home to a third of Iceland’s population. Head out to the Golden Circle and join an expert guide to look into the inner workings of the geothermal plant that provides much of Reykjavík’s energy. Then continue on to Geysir, home to the earliest geyser known to Europeans—where boiling water can rocket up to 210 feet in the air. Cap off your Golden Circle exploration at iconic Gullfoss, a thundering waterfall that appears to vanish into the earth.
Snæfellsnes Peninsula — 3 days
Journey north and explore Djupalon and Dritvik, the iconic black-sand beaches, and learn the tales of Icelandic strength and seafaring history. Visit the museums and beautiful harbor in Stykkishólmur. Ride Icelandic horses along the shore and learn about the importance of these animals in Icelandic culture. Don crampons and ice picks to trek on the Snæfellsjokull glacier with expert guides, reflect on the contrast with Iceland’s first officially declared “extinct” glacier, and learn why many believe this could be the fate of all glaciers in the country. Go searching for whales and orcas as you take in the beautiful scenery of the fjords.
Breiðavík — 1 days
Board a ferry and head to the southern peninsulas of the Westfjords. Alongside Dynjandi waterfall, climb the rocky outcrops and soak in geothermal hot springs overlooking the ocean. Visit Látrabjarg to witness the famous cliffs that are a sanctuary for millions of seabirds at the westernmost tip of Europe. Hike between cairns that once connected ancient settlements, and photograph puffin nests. Learn about one of Iceland’s key industries as you meet local fishermen and learn how fish stocks are changing with the warming currents along the coast.
Ísafjörður — 3 days
Continue on to Ísafjörður, located just 35 miles from the edge of the Arctic Circle and the largest town in the Westfjords. Scout for playful seals, whales, and seabirds, as you kayak through pristine blue waters. Visit the Arctic Fox Center, which conducts research on this special species. Travel by boat from Ísafjörður to the Hornstrandir Nature Reserve, considered one of the last true wilderness areas of Europe. Hike through fields of wildflowers, along picturesque seaside cliffs, and on rocky plateaus dotted with glacial lakes. Take in the views of the harbor at the “Troll’s Throne” and reflect on tourism’s role in the current Icelandic economy and landscape.
Reykjavík — 1 day
Return to Reykjavík for your final day in Iceland and enjoy a celebratory dinner with your group in the heart of the city, reflecting on your travels together.
Return — Travel Day
Fly from Reykjavík, Iceland, to New York with your group and a leader, then continue on to your final destination. To learn more about how we organize travel, click here.
Featured
Program Leaders
Meet some of our featured leaders. Please note that these may not be your leaders for the program.
Frequently Asked Questions
Review specific program questions here. For more general information, visit our full FAQ:
What are the main focuses of this program?
Our high school Iceland program is centered on outdoor adventure, environmental science, and exploring one of the world's most geologically unique landscapes. Students hike across volcanic terrain, glaciers, lava fields, and black-sand beaches while learning firsthand about plate tectonics, renewable energy, climate change, and Iceland's remarkable landscapes and ecosystems. Along the way, students experience Icelandic culture, build environmental awareness, and gain a deeper understanding of the powerful natural forces that continue to shape this island nation today. To learn more about our Exploration programs click here.
Will students have the opportunity to practice the local language?
Icelandic is the official language of Iceland and English is widely spoken throughout the country. A descendent of ancient Norse, Icelandic is considered one of the oldest living languages in the world, and has changed very little since it was spoken by the island’s original Nordic settlers. Students have many opportunities to learn a few Icelandic words and phrases.
What is the technology and cell phone policy?
To encourage full engagement and immersion in the Putney Student Travel experience, we limit the use of cell phones and other devices on our High School programs. Students are allowed to use their phones in transit to and from the program. During in-country orientation, leaders facilitate a call home, then collect and securely store all phones for the first half of the program. At the end of this tech-free period, leaders return student phones for the second half of the program. During the tech-free portion of the program, students have the opportunity for a weekly call home according to a pre-arranged schedule. For more details, please see our FAQ.
What is an Independent Project?
All students on Putney programs pursue an independent project as a way to more deeply engage with aspects of local culture that are of particular interest to them—in Iceland, you might document how Iceland has positioned itself as a renewable energy leader, develop a photo essay on Iceland’s dramatic geology, document the training it takes to become a glacier guide, become an expert on Viking folklore, or delve into the origins of an Icelandic children’s tale.
How physically active is this program?
This is a physically active high school summer travel program that includes hiking and glacier trekking. Life in Iceland is best experienced outdoors, and you will be moving about often throughout the program—there’s so much to see! You do not need to have previous outdoor experience in these activities, or be at peak fitness to participate, but it is important that you have a desire to be physically active outdoors, and that you are interested in trying all activities.
What are the accommodations for this program?
Our high school Exploration Iceland program stays in comfortable family-run guesthouses, hostels, and small hotels throughout our time in Iceland. Leaders reside together with the students throughout the program.
What are meals like in Iceland?
Our Exploration Iceland program mixes picnics with dining out in Icelandic restaurants, along with traditional family-style dinners taken at our accommodations.
What type of student is most successful on this program?
Our Exploration Iceland program is designed for high school students (grades 9–12) who are adventurous, curious, and open-minded. They enjoy outdoor activities, are willing to challenge themselves physically, have an interest in nature and environmental issues, and are eager to learn about Icelandic culture! Above all, students who approach new challenges with enthusiasm and an open mind will get the most from Iceland's extraordinary landscapes, unique geology, and immersive outdoor experiences.
What makes Iceland a good location for a Putney Student Travel program?
Putney’s extensive experience in Iceland over many decades, and our longstanding relationships with our local contacts there, make our Exploration Iceland program unique. Iceland is an ideal classroom for students interested in the natural world, offering extraordinary access to active geological processes, diverse ecosystems, and innovative approaches to sustainability. Few places allow students to hike on glaciers, walk through lava fields, witness waterfalls and geothermal features, and learn about renewable energy and climate science, all within a single program. Combined with Iceland's welcoming culture, safe environment, and spectacular scenery, these experiences create an immersive educational adventure that inspires curiosity, resilience, and a lifelong appreciation for the natural world.
How does the Iceland program compare to Putney’s other Exploration programs?
Iceland stands out among Putney's Exploration programs for its strong emphasis on environmental science, climate resilience, and active outdoor adventure. While every Exploration program encourages students to discover a destination through immersive travel and cultural exchange, Iceland offers an especially hands-on experience in one of the world's most dynamic natural landscapes. Students spend much of the program outdoors, exploring glaciers, volcanoes, waterfalls, geothermal areas, and black-sand beaches while learning about geology, renewable energy, and climate science. This program is an excellent choice for high school students who are excited by the outdoors and want to understand the natural forces shaping our planet as they experience them firsthand. The program is designed to go beyond classic Icelandic sightseeing to explore from Reykjavik all the way to the Westfjords, one of the least visited regions in Iceland.
Do students need prior experience or specific skills to join this program
No specific experience or skills are required for success on our Exploration Iceland program, aside from coming with an open mind, a willingness to try new things, and participating positively in a supportive, small-group environment.
What outcomes, skills, or growth can students expect to gain from this experience?
Students return from Iceland with greater confidence, resilience, and a deeper appreciation for the natural world. Spending time outdoors in challenging environments helps students build independence, adaptability, teamwork, and sound decision-making. By studying Iceland's geology, renewable energy systems, and changing ecosystems firsthand, students also develop a stronger understanding of environmental science and climate issues. Students leave with renewed curiosity, a greater sense of environmental stewardship, and the confidence that comes from exploring extraordinary landscapes alongside a supportive group of peers.
A Day in the Life: Snæfellsnes Peninsula
Due to the traveling nature of this student program abroad, each day is different. Here is a snapshot of a day in Mývatn.
- Morning
8:00am
Enjoy a delicious breakfast with our guesthouse hosts
9:00am
Ride Icelandic horses and learn about their historical importance
- Afternoon
12:00pm
Have lunch with your group near the Snæfellsjokull Glacier
2:00pm
Walk the rugged coastline between Arnarstapi and Hellnar
5:00pm
Journal, read, work on your independent project, or relax
- Evening
6:00pm
Have dinner with your group at our accommodations or a local restaurant
7:00pm
Head to the public baths to soak in the geothermally heated, mineral-rich water
9:00pm
Group meeting to discuss the day and upcoming schedule
“Her eyes have been further opened to the world outside of the U.S. and she has an increased sense of self-reliance and wonder. Her passion for travel has been ignited by Putney Student Travel.”
—Andrew & Margaret L., Washington, D.C.
