Discover the Land of Fire & Ice - Sample Itinerary
Conveniently located near the East Coast, Iceland is a must-visit destination. From its dynamic business landscape to its stunning cultural and natural wonders, the Land of Fire and Ice offers endless opportunities. Discover geothermal energy innovations, explore otherworldly landscapes, and experience a nation defined by its bold spirit, creative culture and deep connection to nature.
* Please note that this is only a sample itinerary for a full-time MBA group. All of our itineraries are tailor-made and can accommodate any academic level and theme. All itineraries are subject to change.
Day 1: Saturday, September 7Sat September 7Day 1: velkominn til Íslands!
orientation talkby ISP Program Manager & faculty
ONE WEEK PRIOR TO DEPARTURE: Get familiar with the upcoming schedule and activities, uncover the secret ingredients for a successful trip, and learn some useful tips before the trip. Use the time to also define your very own learning goals and plan out a strategy for achieving them. What questions will you need to ask and what places will you need to explore?
intercity transfersarrive in Reykjavik
Own arrangements
own arrangements
welcome to Iceland
Iceland is an island in the North Atlantic. It is home to a progressive and peaceful nation that has formed a modern society where freedom and equality are held in high regard. Iceland continuously ranks near the top for measurements of quality of life, gender equality, and democracy, and is one of the highest ranked countries in the world for health care, education and internet availability. Iceland is a country of extreme geological contrasts. Widely known as “The Land of Fire and Ice”, Iceland is home to some of the largest glaciers in Europe, and some of the world’s most active volcanoes. Iceland is also the land of light and darkness. Long summer days with near 24-hours of sunshine are offset by short winter days with only a few hours of daylight.
transportationtransfer to hotel, check-in
Own arrangements
own arrangements
transportationmeet in hotel lobby, depart for foodie tour
afternoon
cultural eventthe flavors of Iceland: Reykjavík food walk
Kick off your stay in Reykjavík with the Reykjavík food walk and discover the essence of Icelandic culinary delights. Enjoy a guided stroll through Reykjavík's historic streets, exploring the city's rich culture and vibrant food scene. Savor the flavors of Iceland as you sample distinctive dishes, from time-honored comfort food that has nourished the Icelandic people for centuries, to delectable street food offerings, and finally, a refined take on Icelandic cuisine's classic dishes.
walk
rest of the day at leisure
ISPer's recommendations: one of the greenest and healthiest ways to spend your afternoon in Reykjavik is swimming! Visit one of the 18 municipal swimming pools in Reykjavík, all heated by Iceland's legendary geothermal energy. Savor living like a local for a few hours!
Day 2: Sunday, September 8Sun September 8Day 2: into the land of fire and ice
breakfast
hotel
transportationmeet in hotel lobby, depart for day trip
bus full day
morning
cultural eventday trip to Golden Circle
Embark on the Golden Circle Adventure, an unforgettable journey through Iceland's most iconic natural wonders. Your adventure begins at Thingvellir National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site where the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates meet, creating a dramatic landscape of rift valleys, clear glacial springs, and historical significance. Next, witness the raw power of nature at the Geysir hot spring area, home to the original geyser and its more active counterpart, Strokkur, which erupts every few minutes, sending boiling water high into the sky. The journey culminates with a visit to the majestic Gullfoss waterfall, where the Hvítá river plunges into a deep canyon, creating one of Iceland's most breathtaking sights.
bus/walk
Thingvellir - National Park
Geysir - hot spring area
Gullfoss - golden waterfall
early afternoon
mealslight group lunch at Friðheimar
Enjoy the special experience of entering a greenhouse with its fragrant tomato plants – and then sitting down to a feast of the famous and delicious Friðheimar‘s tomato-based cuisine – with tomato plants all around. Some would also like to raise a glass of tomato schnapps!
restaurant/farm house
afternoon
cultural eventFriðheimar
Friðheimar is a farm operated by an Icelandic family who breed Icelandic horses and grow vegetables all year round. After lunch, take a tour of the farm including the greenhouses and stables.
late afternoon
transportationtransfer to hotel, rest of the day at leisure
bus transfer
rest of the day at leisure
ISPer's recommendation: Explore the city and familiarize yourself with the hotel surroundings by utilizing local electric transportation. Numerous electric buses operate in Iceland, and within the capital, convenient options such as bicycle rentals, electric bikes, and scooters are readily available for easy access and efficient mobility.
Day 3: Monday, September 9Mon September 9Day 3: leading by example
breakfast
hotel
transportationmeet in the hotel lobby, depart for the visits
Delve into the practices of ethical leadership and gender diversity within Iceland’s banking industry. Understand how ethical principles guide business strategies, customer relations, and stakeholder engagement and learn about policies and programs aimed at promoting gender equality, such as mentorship schemes, leadership training for women, and efforts to close the gender pay gap.
visitsustainable power for a resilient future: lessons from a renewable energy leaderLandsvirkjun
Delve into the heart of sustainability in the power business as you explore the journey of a company that generates 75% of Iceland's electricity from renewable sources. Explore how a focus on renewable hydroelectric and geothermal sources has led to not just exceptional energy generation but also to the aspiration of becoming a true leader in sustainable energy utilization, both within Europe and beyond.
management presentation, discussion
rest of the day at leisure OR
late evening
optional cultural eventthe Northern lights adventure
Embark on a magical evening journey from Reykjavik to witness the awe-inspiring Northern Lights. As night falls, leave the city lights behind and venture into the Icelandic countryside, where the sky is at its darkest and the auroras shine their brightest. Accompanied by an expert guide, you'll learn about the science and folklore behind this natural phenomenon while you wait for the vibrant, dancing lights to illuminate the night. With a bit of luck and clear skies, you'll experience the ethereal beauty of the Northern Lights, creating memories that will last a lifetime. Don't forget your camera to capture the breathtaking display!
sts pay individually
Day 4: Tuesday, September 10Tue September 10Day 4: sustainable thinking
breakfast
hotel
transportationmeet in the hotel lobby, depart for the visits
bus full day
morning
visitrevolutionizing healthcare: unveiling Iceland's innovations in wound care and regenerative medicineKerecis
Witness firsthand the innovative technologies behind their groundbreaking products - from fish skin-derived treatments to regenerative medicine solutions, explore the forefront of biotech innovation. Learn how Kerecis utilizes fish skin, a natural and renewable resource, to create medical solutions that promote sustainable practices. Understand their commitment to reducing waste and their strategies for minimizing environmental impact in the biotech industry. Discuss their approach to ethical decision-making and governance. Explore how their values-driven leadership fosters a culture of integrity, transparency, and social responsibility.
management presentation, case study, discussion
mealslunch: own arrangements
Own arrangements
restaurant
afternoon
entrepreneurial labsReykjavik's energy start up ecosystemStartup Iceland
The country may be a world leader in renewable energy per capita, but it is still investing into innovation and advancement in the sector through a variety of schemes. Meet with the organization fostering a new generation of renewable energy companies and hear about some of their brightest start ups and why grass roots start ups have an important role to play in the green energy sector.
management presentation, discussion, tour of premises
late afternoon
cultural eventa relaxing soak in the Blue Lagoon geothermal spa
Indulge your senses in a truly rejuvenating experience as we embark on a journey to the world-renowned Blue Lagoon geothermal spa. Nestled amidst Iceland's volcanic landscapes, this iconic destination offers a haven of relaxation and wellness like no other. Immerse yourself in the soothing warmth of the mineral-rich waters, where the natural healing properties of geothermal energy work wonders on body and soul!
rest of the day at leisure
Day 5: Wednesday, September 11Wed September 11Day 5: tidal growth
Join a panel discussion on how Icelandic companies are at the forefront of sustainable fishing, marine technology, and ocean conservation. Industry experts will share insights on leveraging technologies for sustainability, maintaining transparent supply chains, and balancing economic growth with environmental responsibility. The session will also highlight emerging opportunities in marine entrepreneurship and renewable energy.
Iceland's climate may seem like a disadvantage when you talk about agriculture, but the advantages are too huge - an endless supple of pure water and renewable energy. Learn how Iceland tries to satisfy the internal demand for vegetables by using the most profound agricultural technologies with the most effective usage of resources and minimal waste. How to make an effective business out of growing crops in a controlled environment?
management presentation, discussion, tour of facilities
evening
mealsViking feast farewell dinner
Time to say skál (or cheers) to a successful Icelandic journey in true Nordic fashion with a hearty meal of Icelandic fare. Share insights gained from places you have visited and people you have met along the way. Enjoy the feast before you step back on the longboat to Vinland.
restaurant
Day 6: Thursday, September 12Thu September 12Day 6: depart Iceland
