The recent geography expedition to Iceland provided students with a comprehensive look at the country’s unique tectonic and volcanic features. Over the course of the week, the group visited several key sites that illustrate the raw scale of Icelandic geology, moving from the southern coastlines up to the capital city.

The itinerary included visits to the thundering waterfalls of Skógafoss and Gullfoss, as well as the Geysir geothermal area. A significant highlight for many was the time spent at Þingvellir National Park, where students were able to observe the visible rift between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates. The group also explored the black sand beaches and basalt columns of the south, providing a practical look at the results of historic volcanic activity.

The final stage of the trip focused on the cultural and scientific aspects of life in Iceland. In Reykjavik, the group joined our guide, Helgi, for a walking tour that covered the city’s history and its development into a modern capital. Following some independent time for students to explore the city centre, the group visited the Perlan Museum. The interactive exhibits and indoor ice caves served as an excellent summary of the glacial and geothermal processes studied throughout the week.

The trip concluded with a walk along the coastline by the local lighthouse before the group began their journey home. This expedition was an important opportunity for students to apply their classroom learning to a real-world context while developing their independence. The students are to be commended for their conduct throughout the week, and we look forward to seeing how they apply this experience to their future studies.