Iceland Climate & Glaciers Expedition
Study Climate Change on the Edge of the Arctic
Overview
Over 8 days, give your child the chance to explore real glaciers, volcanoes, black sand beaches, rift valleys, and geysers in one of the most spectacular “natural laboratories” on Earth. This immersive expedition combines field science, climate education, and adventure in Iceland’s dramatic landscapes.
Key Features
Exciting Adventures: Discover Iceland’s most breathtaking natural wonders, from thundering waterfalls (Skógafoss & Seljalandsfoss) and black sand beaches at Reynisfjara to glacier lagoons like Jökulsárlón and the rift valley at Þingvellir. Students explore lava fields, geysers, and geothermal areas, turning Iceland into their living science lab.
Intensive Climate & Earth Science Learning: Immerse yourself in our Iceland Climate & Glaciers Expedition with daily field sessions and workshops. Visit a geothermal power plant and carbon-capture site, hike on a real glacier with expert guides, collect data, work on team climate projects, and present findings in a final showcase.
Safety and Comfort First: Supervised by experienced chaperones (male and female, with a low student–staff ratio), students stay in vetted hostels and hotels along the south coast and in Reykjavík. All ground transport is provided by private coach, with clear safety briefings, weather checks, and a supportive environment to build confidence and independence.
All-Inclusive Value: Program tuition covers accommodation, meals, in-country transport, entrance fees, guided activities, and learning materials - making the experience smooth and worry-free for parents and unforgettable for students.
Live Earth & Climate Science in the Field
Students don’t just read about glaciers and volcanoes - they stand on them. From the Hellisheiði geothermal power plant and carbon capture workshop to rift zone and waterfall field studies, students see first-hand how Iceland generates clean power and how climate change affects ice, oceans, and land.
Glacier Hike & Data Collection
A guided glacier hike in Skaftafell is the centrepiece of the trip. Equipped with crampons and helmets, students step onto the ice with professional guides and SkillUp educators to observe features, collect basic field data, and connect textbook climate science with real-world evidence.
Glacier Lagoons & Lava Fields
At Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon and Diamond Beach, students see icebergs calving from glaciers and washing ashore, connecting them to rising temperatures and sea levels. They also walk through ancient lava fields like Eldhraun, learning how volcanic events reshape landscapes over centuries.
Explore. Discover. Lead.
Dates: July 18-July 30
Cost: $9,200 Fully Inclusive
$7,950 if booked by December 15!
What our customers and experts think
The positive feedback from the participants and partners was a testament to the camp's success in creating a compelling and transformative educational experience.
Mr Akram El Ashy
Head of special Projects, KAUST
SkillUp Education is at the leading edge of STEM Education today. Having worked on multiple projects with them from New York, to The Middle East to Shanghai, i have witnessed first had the power of their programs.
Charles Gemar
NASA Astronaut
Special recognition goes to SkillUp education and their STEM education experts, whose rich and insightful lectures were delivered by esteemed doctors and professors and Astronauts.
Ms Heba Ekhlassi
Robotics teacher, Saudi Arabia
Students practice real field techniques such as data collection, environmental observation, geological identification, and basic analysis. Whether on a glacier, beside waterfalls, or in geothermal zones, they build strong scientific habits and problem-solving skills that mirror actual climate and Earth science research.
Practical STEM & Field Research Skills Used by Environmental Scientists
Students deepen their understanding of glaciers, geothermal systems, volcanoes, and tectonic plates by observing them directly in Iceland’s landscapes. Through structured field notes and guided discussions, they connect what they see, from melting ice, coastal changes, geysers, and lava fields to global climate systems and better grasp how Earth is transforming.
Climate & Earth Science Knowledge
Through daily teamwork, outdoor challenges, and their final climate case study, students develop communication, resilience, and collaborative decision-making. They learn to synthesize field observations into clear insights and leave with greater confidence, independence, and an informed sense of responsibility for the planet.
Leadership & Resilience
Where will we stay?
Students stay in hostels and hotels along Iceland’s south coast, typically in Reykjavík, Vík, Skaftafell area, and Höfn. Accommodation is chosen for safety, comfort, and proximity to key field sites. Rooms are shared, separated by gender, with staff accommodations nearby for supervision.
Daily breakfast and dinner are served on-site or at nearby partner restaurants, and packed lunches are provided for field days so students can spend more time outdoors.
Where will we study?
Instead of a single classroom, our “campus” is Iceland itself:
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Geothermal power plant and carbon capture facility at Hellisheiði
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Rift zones, mud pots, and geothermal sites on the Reykjanes peninsula
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Waterfalls, beaches, and coastal cliffs along the south coast
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Glaciers and mountain trails in Skaftafell National Park
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Glacial lagoon and beaches around Jökulsárlón
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Rift valley and parliament plains at Þingvellir
Each location is supported by structured learning materials, guiding questions, and reflective activities.
Who is leading the program?
Dr. Derrick Lim, an accomplished engineer, researcher, educator, and entrepreneur, boasts extensive experience leading innovative education programs with SkillUp Education over the years.
Specializing in STEM and space initiatives, he has organized global high-impact programs for students, including immersive space camps in Thailand and international trips. As founder of Natureverse Thailand, he integrates his passion for astronomy into hands-on learning.
Find Dr. Lim on Linkedin
What do participants get?
Signed completion certificate
All participating students receive a personally signed certificate from a NASA astronaut.
Signed program T-Shirt
Get your exclusive signed program T-Shirt; which serves as an iconic symbol, and commemorates your achievements on the program.
Exclusive Expedition Photo Pack
Students receive a curated collection of high-quality photos capturing their glacier hike, fieldwork moments, team activities, and Iceland’s stunning landscapes that they can proudly share on their socials.
INCLUSIONS
Flights
Return economy class airfare to Keflavík from one of our hubs is included in the price. Students will fly with a chaperone from one of our main hub airports to the Iceland and back again
Meals
All meals, breakfast, lunch, and dinner, are included, featuring healthy, balanced options with fresh ingredients to fuel your teen's adventures and learning.
All venue tickets
All entrance fees to national parks, geothermal facilities, glacier operators, and major natural sites are included, ensuring seamless access to every scientific, educational, and adventurous location throughout the expedition.
Insurance
Comprehensive insurance, for medical emergencies, travel disruptions, and liability, is included, ensuring your teen's safety and providing parents with complete peace of mind throughout the program.
Frequently asked questions
