Category Icon Spring at Sage

Spring at Sage: Iceland

How does Iceland balance extraction and stewardship?

May 24 to 31, 2027

Glaciers, hot springs, and lava tunnels converge to balance your Spring at Sage voyage to Iceland!

This program will take students on an immersive journey through Iceland, exploring how geology, renewable energy, and climate resilience shape the nation’s development and high quality of life. Through geothermal power plant visits, volcanic landscapes, glacier hikes, agricultural innovation, and conversations with scientists and local experts, students will experience firsthand how Iceland harnesses its dynamic natural environment to power communities, support food production, and drive sustainable growth.

By connecting tectonic forces, renewable energy systems, environmental stewardship, and social well-being, the itinerary offers a systems-based understanding of how a country transforms natural volatility into resilience and prosperity.

Itinerary at a Glance

Depart Los Angeles for Iceland.

Walk through the Raufarhólshellir Lava Tunnel, investigate geothermal engineering at Hellisheiði Power Plant, and watch real lava flow during an unforgettable live demonstration.

Explore Hraunfossar and Barnafoss waterfalls, visit historic Reykholt, and soak in geothermal baths fed by Europe’s most powerful hot spring. Meet youth search-and-rescue volunteers for practical activities and a look at community preparedness.

Walk black-pebble beaches and dramatic coastal cliffs on the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, look for seals, and ride an Icelandic horse along Löngufjörur Beach.

See wool transformed with traditional plant dyes, prepare Icelandic food in a cooking class, and explore marine conservation among life-size whale models. Meet scientist “Star Sævar” to connect astronomy with Icelandic storytelling.

Walk behind Seljalandsfoss, climb beside Skógafoss, and experience Reynisfjara’s volcanic coastline. Gear up with crampons, helmet, and an ice axe for a guided glacier hike.

Taste traditional dried fish, visit a volcanic lake and bubbling geothermal fields, walk through a recent eruption site, and stand between tectonic plates before soaking in the Blue Lagoon.

Meet a young Icelander working in leadership, entrepreneurship or environmental action, complete the final reflection and begin the journey home.

Arrive home with a newfound appreciation for the power of the Arctic.

Please note: due to a variety of changing circumstances, itineraries are subject to change. Where originally planned activities cannot be delivered, every effort will be made to offer a similar alternative.

What’s included

  • Round trip flights
  • Local transportation
  • Accommodations
  • Meals and water
  • Program activities and experiences
  • Global facilitators
  • Local guides

Important Considerations

Expect cool, windy, and rapidly changing spring weather, plus approximately 18–20 hours of daylight.

The program includes extensive outdoor time on volcanic, coastal, geothermal, and glacial terrain.

Physical activity is high, including horseback riding, roughly 500 steps at Skógafoss, and a guided 1–3 mile glacier hike.

Swim tests are required for water activities.

Food choices may be simpler and more protein-focused than in large global cities.

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