Adventurer of the Week: Natassia and the Glaciers

Natassia B

Welcome to our “Adventurer of the Week” series! Each week we will feature individuals that were inspired to make every moment an experience in Iceland by going out on epic tours with us that allowed them to interact with nature.

 

This week's installment of our "Adventurer of the Week" series tells the story of Natassia, who came to Iceland and was taken aback by how much the glaciers are receding in a land that has always been primarily shaped the elements. 

 

What motivated you to visit Iceland?

 I've always been in awe of the landscape of Iceland. I visited Iceland a year ago and was completely blown away by the magnificence, so I was just dying to come back to see and experience more of this beautiful country again!

There was a spring bubbling out of the glacier, there was a cave carved by a glacial river, and a delicate arch we were able to trek under. I was just in awe the whole time.

Natassia B

How long was your stay? Did you travel solo or with a group?

I was only in Iceland for 4 days, but in that amount of time I was able to see and experience a lot. I did travel solo as well, which was a bit intimidating as I'm not even 20 yet, but I felt very safe in Iceland. 

 

Which tour did you take and why did you choose it?

I chose the glacier hike and northern lights tour. I specifically chose this one because I love a challenge and trying new things. I had seen glaciers before, but never the opportunity to hike on one. Also, I have seen the northern lights before, but I couldn't pass on the opportunity to maybe see them again. 

Natassia B

What is one thing you will always remember about your tour?

One thing I will always remember about this tour is that despite wind, rain, and cold, Solheimajökull was so beautiful and blue. There was a spring bubbling out of the glacier, there was a cave carved by a glacial river, and a delicate arch we were able to trek under. I was just in awe the whole time. 

 

What is something that you learned about Iceland that surprised you?

One thing that I learned about Iceland from a guide was why Iceland looks the way it does, and how the elements have shaped this country. I also learned a bit about the first settlers to Iceland. But if anything was surprising, it was how much those beautiful glaciers are melting. It's one thing to be aware and realize climate change, but when you see it with your own eyes while standing on that glacier, it's shocking. 

 

If you had more time in Iceland, what else would you like to see and do?

 I would love to visit Westfjords and northern Iceland, as I've only been in the south. 

it was how much those beautiful glaciers are melting…

Natassia B

What tips do you have for people who want to visit Iceland?

Pack layers! I have learned that it is essential if you want to stay warm. Also, just take time to enjoy your stay, soak up the whole experience in, put the camera down and just see and feel the beauty of Iceland. 

Natassia B

What adventure are you off to next? What is your next dream adventure?

I'm undecided as to where to go next, as I want to travel everywhere, but I will be in the Caribbean within the next two months! But Patagonia has been a dream of mine for awhile, so someday I'll get there. 

Natassia’s adventure is only one of the many features that make for an unforgettable experience. Book your tour and join us for an excursion that is guaranteed to make memories that last a lifetime.  

Have you been on a tour with us in Iceland and would like to be featured as an “Adventurer of the Week”? Feel free to email us at [email protected].

About the Author

Joseph Mattos-Hall

Joseph Mattos-Hall

Hailing from London and born into a British/Brazilian/Italian household, Joseph came to Iceland originally to complete a master’s degree in Environment and Natural Resources from the University of Iceland: the rest is history.

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