OVERVIEW
Magical connection to this mystical land as you explore its breathtaking scenery. As you journey back to Reykjavík, reflect on the incredible diversity of Iceland’s natural wonders: from majestic glaciers and lava fields to tranquil fjords and dramatic waterfalls. The Snæfellsjökull National Park is a true paradise for nature enthusiasts, offering awe-inspiring views and opportunities for photography. End your adventure in Reykjavík, where you can take in the city's vibrant culture, dynamic art scene, and welcoming cafés. This unforgettable experience captures Iceland’s stunning landscapes, geothermal marvels, and rich Viking history.
Day 1 : Arrival
Arrival at Keflavík airport. Transfers to Reykjavík are not included in the tour. We would be happy to arrange shared or private transfers for you, so let us know at booking time. We can even book atransfer that stops at the Blue Lagoon or the Sky Lagoon for some geothermal relaxation before you head to your hotel.
If you arrive earlier in the day, you might consider adding a day tour. We’d be happy to make suggestions based on your interests. It’s also nice to take a stroll in the old city centre, perhaps visiting one of the museums or relaxing with a cup of coffee in a cosy café.
Early this evening there will be an informational meeting at the hotel with your guide. You’ll learn more about the tour and meet other tour participants.
Dinner this evening is at your leisure. Reykjavík offers a multitude of restaurants and/or coffeehouses, making dinner a great way to get better acquainted with Iceland’s capital.
Please note that hotels in Iceland start check-in around 14:00 (2:00pm), and early check-in is not guaranteed. Most hotels will be happy to store your luggage if you are not able to check in early.
Optional Tours – You can book and pay for these tours in advance for your convenience and to ensure a spot for you on the tour. Let us know during the booking process.
Afternoon Horseback Riding – This tour for both beginning and experienced riders is ideal for experiencing Icelandic nature. | Duration: 4 hours | Includes: Hotel transfers, 1.5 – 2-hour guided horseback riding, use of riding helmet, rubber boots, rainwear, coffee/tea/hot chocolate | Not Included: Meals & refreshments.
Blue Lagoon Comfort Experience Enjoy a relaxing visit to the Blue Lagoon | Duration: flexible | Includes: Bathing fee, towel rental, silica mud mask, first drink of your choice | Not Included: Swimsuit rental. You must also book an unguided Blue Lagoon shuttle between Reykjavík and the Blue Lagoon.
Day 2 : Þingvellir National Park – Geysir – Gullfoss
Approximate Distance: 205 km / 127 miles
National park with geological wonders – Lively geysers – Golden waterfalls
Breakfast at your hotel. Meet your guide and start your Iceland adventure!After a quick introductory of our home city of Reykjavík, head to Þingvellir National Park.
This UNESCO heritage site is where the world’s oldest continuing parliamentary government was founded in the 10th century. It is also the place where the North
American and European tectonic plates meet. You will have the unusual experience of walking between two continents!
Next on your journey is Gullfoss, the “Golden Waterfall”, where various walking paths give you photo-worthy views of the beautiful double-ledged cascade. You’ll also visit the nearby Geysir hot spring area to see the famous Geysir and Strokkur, as well as numerous other hot springs and boiling mud pools.
During the day you’ll get a glimpse into Icelandic local life. Visit an Icelandic family farm where tomatoes are grown using organic geothermal energy. Tour the greenhouse and sample some of the farm’s sweet Icelandic tomatoes.
Dinner and overnight in the Golden Circle area.
Day 3 : Þjórsárdalur Valley – Skógar – Dyrhólaey – Vík
Approximate Distance: 295 km / 183 miles
Volcanic valley – Waterfall duo – Black sand beaches
Breakfast at your hotel. Explore enchanting Þjórsárdalur valley and its ever-changing landscapes of birch woods, sandy lava fields, rivers, and waterfalls. If the skies are clear, you’ll also see the impressive and beautiful Mt. Hekla volcano towering over the region. Visit Stöng, where you can view a replica of a Viking-age longhouse that was buried by a volcanic eruption of Hekla. The area was a filming location for Game of Thrones Season 4.
Drive along the scenic farmlands of Iceland’s South Shore. Stop to admire the scenic waterfalls Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss. Each waterfall has its own charm.
Continue to Dyrhólaey* and the thundering waves of the Reynisfjara black sand beaches. End the day in Vík, Iceland’s southernmost town.
Dinner and overnight in the Vík area.
*Please note that Dyrhólaey is closed for the bird nesting season between mid-May and the 25th of June.
Day 4 : Vatnajökull National Park – Jökulsárlón Glacial Lagoon – Höfn
Approximate Distance: 285 km / 177 miles
Lava fields – Glacial lagoon with icebergs – Europe’s largest glacier
Breakfast at your hotel. Today you will be in a world of glaciers! You’ll be visiting the southern area of Vatnajökull National Park, named after Europe’s largest glacier.
The total park area covers almost 14% of Iceland, making it the largest national park in Western Europe. Drive through vast sand plains created by glacial outwashes as you head east. Visit the national park’s famous Skaftafell area, a site of outstanding natural beauty. Enjoy the views of rich green landscapes and black sands dominated by several magnificent glaciers. You’ll also see Svínafellsjökull, one of the most beautiful glacial “tongues” that are slowly creeping down from Vatnajökull.
Visit Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon where you’ll enjoy the breath-taking sight of icebergs floating in the fantastic 180m (591 ft.) deep glacial lagoon. You also have the option of enjoying a boat tour amid the ice bergs (must be booked in advance). Nearby is the dramatic beauty of the Diamond Beach, named for the shrinking icebergs that settle on the black sands before drifting out to sea. Your overnight is in Höfn, a fishing port in the shadow of Vatnajökull glacier. Dinner is on your own.
Höfn has a nice selection of restaurants and cafes. The local specialty is langoustines (Norway lobsters).
Overnight in Höfn.
Optional Tour – You can book and pay for this activity in advance for your convenience and to ensure a spot for you on the tour. Let us know during the booking process.
Amphibian Boat tour on the Glacier Lagoon – Sail among the drifting icebergs to see them from a different angle | Duration: 30 mins | Includes: Guided tour on amphibian boat.
Day 5 : Höfn – Eastfjords – Egilsstaðir
Approximate Distance: 260 km / 162 miles
Narrow fords – Picturesque coastline – Local microbrewery
Breakfast at your hotel. Drive from Höfn through Almannaskarð pass, stopping to admire the majestic coastline. Continue to the towering mountains plunging vertically into the sea that form the magnificent Eastfjords. We’re sure you’ll love the amazing views, so keep your camera ready! You will also pass villages, each with its own special history and charm. One of these is the tiny village of Breiðdalsvík. Your group will visit the Beljandi Microbrewery and sample some of the wonderful beer. The local community came together in 2017 to transform a rustic warehouse into a charmingly quirky brewery. You’ll meet one of the townsfolk and get a feel for life in a small Icelandic town, as well as see how great beer is made.
The road brings you to Egilsstaðir town, located near Iceland’s largest forest and a lake said to be home to a legendary (friendly) monster.
Dinner and overnight stay in the Egilsstaðir area.
Day 6 : Lake Mývatn Area
Approximate Distance: 255 km / 158 miles
Highland Desert – Bizarre lava formations – Geothermal & volcanic wonderland
Breakfast at your hotel. Explore the empty vastness of the highland desert plateau Möðrudalsöræfi, desolate and yet hauntingly beautiful, as you head towards the Lake Mývatn area.
Visit fantastical Stuðlagil, an impressive canyon made of basalt columns that seem to resemble organ pipes. A viewing platform near the canyon lets you enjoy the canyon’s unique features. Stuðlagil is one of Iceland’s largest basalt formations. You can see how basalt columns like these influenced the design of Reykjavík’s Hallgrímskirkja church.Stop at Dettifoss, Europe’s largest and most powerful waterfall.
Continue onwards to the Námaskarð pass with its boiling mud pools and vibrant colours. We often feel like we are visiting another planet when we come here, and you may feel the same way. It’s such a surreal experience! Walk along the pseudo craters at Skútustaðir and peek into Grjótagjá, a cave with underground hot springs. Explore the peculiar lava formations at Dimmuborgir. They look as if fantasy creatures built them. Legend has it that elves live here, so be respectful during your visit.
You’ll definitely see why the surreal Mývatn area has become so popular as a movie location. Dinner and overnight stay in the Mývatn area.
Day 7 : Lake Mývatn Area – Goðafoss – Akureyri
Approximate Distance: 85 km / 53 miles
“Waterfall of the gods” – Iceland’s colourful northern “capital”
Breakfast at your hotel. Start your day’s adventure with visiting sites in the Mývatn area. Next, head to magnificent Goðafoss waterfall, one of North Iceland’s most important symbols. You will also learn how the waterfall got its interesting name.
Afterwards, you’ll head to Akureyri, the colourful northern “capital“ of Iceland. The town has charming buildings and a beautiful view of the Eyjafjörður fjord. Though small in size, Akureyri has a lively cultural scene.
The rest of the day is open for you to explore Akureyri. If you’re interested in culture, check out the trendy Listagil area, the “Art Canyon.” You can stroll the street here, browsing art galleries and stopping in at one of the friendly cafés or pubs for delicious, locally sourced food. Several museums are worth a visit. The botanical garden is open year-round; many visitors find it interesting that a garden so close to the Arctic Circle has such a large variety of plants. Akureyri also has a nice variety of restaurants, so you’ll certainly enjoy the chance to dine out tonight.
Overnight in Akureyri. Dinner is on your own.
Optional Tours – You can book and pay for these tours in advance for your convenience and to ensure a spot for you on the tour. Let us know during the booking process.Whale Watching from Akureyri – Take a boat tour to view whales and other marine life in Eyjafjörður fjord | Duration: 3 hours | Includes: Guided boat tour, Wi-Fi on boat, use of warm overalls if needed. | Not Included: Transfers to/from the harbour.
Forest Lagoon Geothermal Spa – Relax in geothermal pools surrounded by trees and a beautiful fjord. | Duration: Flexible | Includes: Forest Lagoon bathing fee and towel rental | Not Included: Swimsuit (rentals available). Transfers to/from the Lagoon.
Day 8 : Skagafjörður Borgarnes
Approximate Distance: 415 km / 258 miles
Viking horse demonstration – Europe’s largest hot spring – Picturesque waterfalls
Breakfast at your hotel. Drive through scenic valleys framed by dramatic mountains as you head into the historical Skagafjörður region. Icelanders consider the Skagafjörður area to be one of the country’s finest places for horse breeding. Enjoy an introduction to the unique Icelandic horse breed with its special fifth gait – the tolt. This horse breed has remained unchanged since Viking times. Cross the Holtavörðuheiði plateau taking you into West Iceland.
Drive through Borgarfjörður, a region that has been getting international recognition for its lovely volcanic and wooded scenery and for its Viking history. Listen to the powerful rushing waters of Deildartunguhver, Europe’s mightiest hot spring area. Stop to admire the beautiful Hraunfossar waterfalls, were brightly blue water rushes through black lava formations. Nearby is Barnafoss, a waterfall with even more brilliantly blue colours. There is an interesting and poignant legend associated with this waterfall.
Dinner and overnight stay in the Borgarfjörður area.
Day 9 : Borgarfjörður – Snæfellsjökull National Park – Reykjavík
Approximate Distance: 405 km / 252 miles
Snæfellsjökull glacier – Pebble beaches – Sea cliffs with birdlife
Breakfast at your hotel. Today, you will explore the amazing variety of natural landscapes in Snæfellsjökull National Park. The park’s crown jewel is Snæfellsjökull glacier itself, which covers a dormant volcano that last erupted in 250 AD. In addition, you’ll also see Kirkjufell, one of the most photographed mountains in Iceland.
Walk along the uniquely pebbled seascape of Djúpalónssandur beach. At the picturesque harbour village of Arnarstapi, you can observe magnificent basalt rocks in stacked formations.
One Icelandic Saga mentions that Snæfellsnes and its people are protected by a benevolent half troll who lives high on the glacier. You might even find a sense of magic and healing energy in this beautiful peninsula.
During the day, your group will visit Bjarnarhöfn Shark Museum, where you’ll learn about “hákarl,” the cured shark meat specialty that Icelanders have enjoyed since Viking times. You can even try some for yourself (if you dare).
At the end of the afternoon, your motor coach heads back to Reykjavík. Your guide will bid you farewell at your hotel.
Overnight stay in Reykjavík. Dinner is on your own.
Day 10 : Farewell to the Land of Fire and Ice
Breakfast at your hotel. Please note that this might be a light breakfast if you are taking an early morning flight. Transfer on your own to the international airport for your departure flight.
The airport transfer is not included, but we are happy to help you arrange shared or private transfers. We recommend you depart your hotel no later than three hours before your departure flight.
We wish you a pleasant trip back to your homeland and hope to see you in Iceland again.
End of our services.
Our services include :
- Guided Coach Tour from day 2 to day 9
- Welcome meeting with guide at hotel on evening of day 1
- Expert professional English-speaking local guide from day 2 to day 9
- Free Wi-Fi on board motor coach
- Accommodation 2 nights in a standard room with facilities in Reykjavík
- Accommodation 7 nights in a standard room with facilities in the countryside
- Icelandic breakfast (except arrival day)
- 5 two-course local-cuisine dinners in the countryside (main course and dessert) or buffet dinners, including coffee/tea
- Visit to Friðheimar Geothermal Greenhouse (day 2)
- Visit to the Stöng Viking-age longhouse (day 3)
- Microbrewery visit and beer tasting in Breiðdalsvík (Day 5)
- Horse Show in Skagafjörður (Day 8)
- Visit to the Bjarnarhöfn Shark Museum (Day 9)
- The Iceland Travel App, which has interesting information about the areas your tour visits
- Great photo stops
- Seat rotation during the tour
- Customer care service during office hours
- 24-hour Iceland Travel emergency line assistance while you are in Iceland
Our services do not include :
- Breakfast on arrival day
- International airfare
- Baggage porterage at airport/hotel
- Personal travel insurance (highly recommended)
- Round-trip transfers between airports and hotels
- Dinners in Reykjavík, Akureyri and Höfn
- Beverages, snacks, lunches, dinners unless otherwise noted in itinerary
- Guaranteed early check-in (check-in time for most hotels in Iceland starts between 14:00 and 16:00 (2:00pm and 4:00pm)
- Guaranteed late check-out
- Any service not specifically listed under “Included”
B=Breakfast L= Lunch D= Dinner BL= Box Lunch
Day |
Hotel |
Day 1 |
Fosshótel Reykjavík |
Day 2 |
Hótel Selfoss |
Day 3 |
Hótel Katla |
Day 4 |
Hótel Höfn |
Day 5 |
Hótel Hallormsstaður |
Day 6 |
Laxá Hotel |
Day 7 |
KEA Hotel Akureyri |
Day 8 |
Hótel Hamar |
Day 9 |
Fosshótel Reykjavík |
Iceland is an extraordinary destination known for its stunning natural landscapes, from erupting geysers and active volcanoes to massive glaciers and geothermal hot springs. Here’s a complete guide for planning an adventure to this Nordic island.
Overview
- Capital: Reykjavik
- Official Language: Icelandic (English is widely spoken)
- Currency: Icelandic króna (ISK)
- Best Time to Visit: Summer (June to August) for the midnight sun and mild weather; Winter (November to March) for Northern Lights and winter sports.
Top Destinations
1. Reykjavik
- Description: Iceland’s vibrant capital offers a mix of artsy culture, lively nightlife, and historical landmarks.
- Must-See Spots: Hallgrímskirkja Church, Harpa Concert Hall, the National Museum of Iceland, and the Sun Voyager statue.
- Activities: Explore Reykjavik's hip coffee culture, enjoy geothermal pools (like the Blue Lagoon), and sample Icelandic cuisine.
2. Golden Circle
- Description: A popular day trip route that includes Þingvellir National Park, the Geysir geothermal area, and Gullfoss waterfall.
- Must-See Spots: Þingvellir (site of Iceland’s first parliament and part of a tectonic rift), Strokkur Geyser, and the powerful Gullfoss waterfall.
- Activities: Snorkel between tectonic plates in Silfra at Þingvellir or walk the trails around the geyser fields.
3. South Coast
- Description: Known for black sand beaches, waterfalls, and volcanic landscapes.
- Must-See Spots: Skógafoss and Seljalandsfoss waterfalls, Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach, and the Sólheimajökull Glacier.
- Activities: Take glacier hikes, explore lava fields, and visit the famous plane wreck on Sólheimasandur.
4. Snæfellsnes Peninsula
- Description: This region offers a taste of Iceland’s diverse geography, including lava fields, mountains, and quaint fishing villages.
- Must-See Spots: Snæfellsjökull National Park, Kirkjufell Mountain, and Arnarstapi cliffs.
- Activities: Glacier hiking, cave tours, and visiting picturesque fishing villages like Stykkishólmur.
5. The North (Akureyri and Lake Mývatn)
- Akureyri: Iceland’s second-largest city offers a cozy charm and is a gateway to northern attractions.
- Lake Mývatn: Known for its geothermal activity, lava formations, and unique birdlife.
- Must-See Spots: Goðafoss waterfall, Húsavík (Iceland’s whale-watching capital), and the Myvatn Nature Baths.
- Activities: Whale watching, exploring lava fields, and bathing in geothermal pools.
6. East Fjords
- Description: Known for remote fjords, fishing villages, and hiking opportunities.
- Must-See Spots: Seyðisfjörður, Hengifoss waterfall, and the scenic coastal roads.
- Activities: Hiking, bird-watching, and exploring Iceland’s lesser-known countryside.
7. The Highlands
- Description: A rugged and remote area with volcanic landscapes, often accessible only in summer by 4x4 vehicles.
- Must-See Spots: Landmannalaugar, known for its colorful rhyolite mountains, and Hveradalir geothermal area.
- Activities: Hiking, natural hot springs, and off-road adventures.
Key Activities in Iceland
- Northern Lights Viewing (October to March): Ideal viewing locations include Reykjavik, Thingvellir, and remote northern areas.
- Hot Springs and Geothermal Pools: Blue Lagoon, Secret Lagoon, and natural hot springs like Reykjadalur.
- Ice Caving and Glacier Hiking: Popular on glaciers like Vatnajökull, Sólheimajökull, and Skaftafell.
- Whale Watching: Húsavík is one of the best places, with opportunities to see humpback and minke whales.
- Hiking: Trails range from easy walks to challenging hikes in places like Landmannalaugar and Þórsmörk.
- Bird Watching: The puffin colonies in places like the Látrabjarg cliffs and Vestmannaeyjar (Westman Islands) are a highlight.
- Snorkeling/Diving: Silfra fissure in Þingvellir National Park offers unique diving between the North American and Eurasian plates.
Practical Tips for Visiting Iceland
- Accommodation: Reykjavik offers various hotels, but in rural areas, guesthouses and farm stays are common. Book early, especially in summer.
- Transportation: Renting a car is popular for flexibility, but check for conditions if you plan on driving in winter or on gravel roads. Buses also run between major towns.
- Food: Iceland is known for seafood, lamb, and traditional dishes like skyr (Icelandic yogurt). Dining out can be expensive; self-catering is a good option.
- Weather: Unpredictable, with rapid changes even within a day. Layers, waterproof clothing, and sturdy shoes are essential.
- Cost-Saving Tips: Iceland can be costly, but you can save by shopping at supermarkets like Bonus, cooking meals, or using refillable water bottles (Icelandic tap water is excellent).
Important Travel Considerations
- Weather Conditions: Iceland’s weather is highly changeable; be prepared for quick shifts in conditions, especially in winter.
- Safety: Stay on marked paths when exploring natural sites; geothermal areas and cliffs can be dangerous if not navigated carefully.
- Environmental Responsibility: Iceland’s delicate ecosystem requires care; follow Leave No Trace principles to protect its landscapes.
- Money: Credit cards are widely accepted; you rarely need cash.
Iceland’s unique landscapes, volcanic activity, and stunning natural phenomena make it a magical destination. Whether you’re planning a quick stopover or a full circuit of the island, Iceland offers memorable experiences for all types of travelers. Prepare, pack for varied conditions, and embrace the adventure in this captivating destination!
Iceland Complete
Reference #: WTP0408
- Golden Circle
- Glacier Lagoon
- Reynisfjara Beach
- Dettifoss waterfall
- Mývatn nature reserve
- Icelandic life
- Snæfellsnes Peninsula
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Magical connection to this mystical land as you explore its breathtaking scenery. As you journey back to Reykjavík, reflect on the incredible diversity of Iceland’s natural wonders: from majestic glaciers and lava fields to tranquil fjords and dramatic waterfalls. The Snæfellsjökull National Park is a true paradise for nature enthusiasts, offering awe-inspiring views and opportunities for photography. End your adventure in Reykjavík, where you can take in the city's vibrant culture, dynamic art scene, and welcoming cafés. This unforgettable experience captures Iceland’s stunning landscapes, geothermal marvels, and rich Viking history.