Hiking trips with Science tips
Hiking trips with science tips is a collaboration between the Icelandic Touring Association and the University of Iceland. Participants of all ages have enjoyed these hikes over the years, combining the experience and expertise of the tour guides with the knowledge of academics. The aim is to spark interest in science and outdoor activities, especially among children and young adults, with an original family activity. The project began almost ten years ago and has proven to be educational, healthy and interesting, thus increasing a general interest in science and Icelandic nature in the area surrounding Reykjavík. The trips are in accordance with the University strategy to encourage the use of diverse communication of science to motivate the public's interest and knowledge science.
The Children Touring Association, part of the Icelandic Touring Association, has been the main organiser of these trips, consequently the science communication has been especially aimed at children and families.
"The aim of the Children Touring Association has always been to create an interesting option for children and families to enjoy the outdoors, tackle new and exciting challenges and simply play outside," says Dalla Ólafsdóttir, who supervises the association with her husband, Matthías Sigurðarson. He says that the scientists from the University are an invaluable contribution to the tours, knowledgeable and proficient, offering science tips in hikes on birds, insects, mushrooms, volcanoes, and the stars.
"The tours are a success year after year and a special perk is to give children the opportunity to enjoy nature whilst educating them. Research scientists have made quite the impression on the tours, communicating the importance of research and science for Icelandic society, flora and fauna, and the environment."
Reaching for the stars
The tours, Hiking trips with Science tips, are all lined up for next year and start in January with Reach for the stars and the Northern Lights with Sævar Helgi Bragason. The aim of this event is to encourage people to enjoy nature and the they sky in calm weather, providing excellent conditions for stargazing.
Sævar Helgi, a connoisseur in astronomy at the University of Iceland, will describe what is going on in the night sky. Sævar Helgi has successfully taught astronomy at the University of Youth and the University Train in recent years; both award winning projects organised by the University of Iceland.
Reach for the stars and the Northern Lights
Birdwatching in the spring
Even though spring seems far away, the first migratory birds will eventually return back home. Migratory birds are the true indicator of spring in Iceland. It is thus ideal to go birdwatching in April and the beach is the best place to see birds in early spring.
Gunnar Þór Hallgrímsson, professor of zoology at the University of Iceland, and Tómas Grétar Gunnarsson, director at the University of Iceland's South Iceland Research Centre, have guided this annual birdwatching with gusto, as they know practically everything there is to know about birds.
Flying back home - Birdwatching
The seaside is a fascinating world
Even though the a visit to the seaside is a good idea all year round, the spring is ideal for studying the beach. A tour to the Grótta shore is thus planned for the end of April.
Grótta is a gem where we examine various organisms, explore and search for crabs on the beach along with small animals in an exciting exploration. Hildur Magnúsdóttir, doctoral student in biology at the University of Iceland, has led this hike in recent years and numerous participants have benefitted from her wisdom.
Bugs, disgusting! No, not at all, they are amazing
A lot of people hate insects and are thankful for winter when there are few of them about. But bugs have fascinated our young ones in recent years, so Bug watching in Elliðaárdalur has become an annual event each summer.
Insects are the most diverse animal species on earth and have increased in numbers in Iceland in recent years for various reasons, especially global warming. New species have also been added to the fauna. Gísli Már Gíslason, insect specialist from the University of Iceland, has led the hike and enlightens participants on the world of insects.
Bugs life - bug wathcing in Elliðaárdalur
Gathering mushrooms
Gísli Már will also lead the way in this tour with other specialists from the University of Iceland to gather mushrooms in Heiðmörk. Mushrooms are a delicacy but it is better to know the good from the bad and the poisoned! The team will teach participants to recognise edible mushrooms and how to process them and cook, during this interesting hike in Heiðmörk.
The hike has become a part of autumn activities for families to enjoy nature and the beauty in Heiðmörk whilst learning about Icelandic fungi.
Gathering mushrooms in Heiðmörk
More Science tips - new Fun
Geologist from the University of Iceland will guide the tour at Helgafell by Hafnarfjörður in a new hiking trip where experts from the University of Iceland will explain the natural phenomena encountered en route, and participants will explore various caves, fissures and crevices.
Participation is free of charge in all of our hikes and everyone is welcome. No need to book - simply show up. Remember to dress warmly in good shoes and preferably bring a healthy snack for the journey.
