Geography Expedition to Iceland Report

Our recent geography trip to Iceland was an unforgettable adventure that brought our classroom learning to life. From glaciers to geysers, we experienced first-hand the dramatic and varied landscapes that make Iceland so unique.

One of the most memorable activities was walking on a glacier. Wearing crampons on our boots and using pickaxes, we explored the ice, even creating small water holes from which we could drink. Along the way, we encountered fascinating features like moulins - deep shafts in the glacier that seemed to go on forever. It was a surreal experience, both fun and educational, as we learned how these landforms develop and change over time.

Waterfalls were another major highlight. Iceland’s landscape is dotted with them, and we had the chance to see many from different angles. We climbed hundreds of steps to reach a viewpoint that revealed a rainbow forming in the mist - perfect for photos. At one point, we ventured into a cave behind a waterfall, getting soaked but loving every second of the adventure. It was an unforgettable way to witness the sheer power of nature up close.

Throughout the trip, we saw a range of landforms, including volcanic craters, black sand beaches, and geothermal areas like the Secret Lagoon. Each location deepened our understanding of physical geography, especially the processes that shape the Earth's surface. At the black sand beach, we learned about the dangers of "sneaky waves" and how the beach's formation is linked to volcanic activity.

We also gained insight into Icelandic life. From visiting rural areas to learning surprising facts - like Iceland's population of just over 400,000 - we got a feel for how people live in such a vast and sometimes harsh environment. 

The last day in Reykjavik, Iceland’s capital, offered a striking contrast between urban life and the natural world, with snow-capped mountains visible in the distance. We wrapped up our trip with a VR flyover experience, bringing together all we had seen in a high-tech and immersive way.

Overall, this trip was more than just a sightseeing tour - it was a chance to apply our geographical knowledge in real-world settings, bond as a group, and create memories that will stay with us for years to come.

Shannon Davies, Rebecca Roberts-Haggis and Amy Lettuce-Wilson (Year 10)