National Geographic Student Expeditions: Iceland

  Iceland

• Other Cities in Iceland: 
Reykjavik,  Rural Areas

Duration of Program: 2-4 weeks
Dates: June 28-July 14, 2010, July 13-July 29, 2010

Description: Iceland is a nation of dramatic extremes, where geysers and steaming lava flows coexist with powerful waterfalls and vast calving glaciers. Located at the edge of the Arctic Circle, much of the country remains under ice. At the same time, Iceland is one of the most volcanically active countries on the planet. This unique combination makes Iceland an ideal laboratory for the study of geothermal energy and climate change.

Choose one of these On Assignment projects. Throughout your expedition, break into teams to delve further into your selected area of focus.

PHOTOGRAPHY: Capture images of gushing waterfalls, steaming fumaroles, and glaciers that stretch for miles and develop a photo-essay on Iceland's fascinating geology. Tell the story of Icelandic culture through portraits of fishermen, children, scientists, and farmers you meet. Hone your skills as you shoot pictures of Icelandic horses and puffins.

CLIMATE & GEOLOGY: Delve into the science behind global climate change and thermodynamic energy. Initiate a GPS project to measure and map the recession of glacial tongues. Build a model glacier, or measure your group's carbon footprint. Trek up a glacier with a professional guide to learn about glacial dynamics and morphology.

FILMMAKING: Document your journey as part of a digital video-production team. Film receding glaciers, erupting geysers, and hissing volcanic steam vents. Interview local experts on the effect of climate change in this region, or film a day in the life of an Icelandic teenager. Use mobile-editing technology to produce a short film.

Highlights:
* Trek across glaciers and lava fields
* Measure receding glaciers using GPS tracking systems
* Search for blue and humpback whales on a boat cruise in the Arctic Ocean
* Discuss climate change and biodiversity with Icelandic scientists
* Swim in natural hot springs
* Explore remote black-sand beaches where herds of Icelandic horses roam
* Delve into your On Assignment project: Photography, Climate & Geology, or Filmmaking

Cost in US$: USD 7,490

International airfare is not included. We have arranged round-trip international group flights between New York and Reykjavik.

This Program is open to Worldwide Participants.

Application Process Involves:

• Online Application plus Application Assessment

Post-Program Services Include:

• Alumni Network

National Geographic Student Expeditions's Mission Statement: In the spirit of adventure and discovery that has inspired National Geographic photographers, writers, and scientists over the years, National Geographic Student Expeditions invites the next generation of explorers to join us in the field. Our expeditions go beyond just exploring great destinations. Students participate in an On Assignment project, get involved in local communities, and travel in the company of dynamic trip leaders and a National Geographic expert. By offering high school students the opportunity to experience new cultures and environments firsthand, National Geographic Student Expeditions is an extension of the National Geographic Society's mission to increase global understanding through exploration, geography, education, and research; and to inspire the next generation to care about our planet.

Year Founded: 1888