Day 1: Arriving in Iceland
On the first day of your tour, you will touch down at Keflavík International Airport and collect your rental vehicle. From here, you will embark on a scenic drive across the Reykjavík Peninsula, where you will be greeted by stunning views of moss-covered lava fields. After a short drive, you will arrive at your accommodation in Reykjavík. Take your time to explore the city and soak up its unique atmosphere before settling in for the night.
Hightlights:
- Reykjanes Peninsula
- Reykjavík
- Laugavegur Shopping Street
- Hallgrímskirkja Church
Optional Activities
- Blue Lagoon: Your experience includes access to the Blue Lagoon, a rejuvenating silica mud mask, complimentary towel service, and your choice of a first drink.
- Sky Lagoon: Included is access to the Sky Lagoon, with the exquisite Skjól Ritual experience.
Day 2: Exploring the Golden Circle
On the second day of your tour, you’ll embark on a journey to the Golden Circle, a popular destination for tourists in Iceland. The Golden Circle is a route that includes three main attractions: Thingvellir National Park, Geysir geothermal area, and Gullfoss waterfall. You’ll have the opportunity to explore each of these locations and take in the breathtaking natural beauty of Iceland before retiring to your accommodation on the South Coast.
Highlights:
- Þingvellir National Park
- Geysir Geothermal Area
- Gullfoss Waterfall
- Kerið Crater Lake
Optional Activities
- Snorkeling in Silfra: Swim between continents in crystal-clear water. Includes a tour with a certified PADI divemaster, all necessary snorkeling gear, Silfra admission fee, and hot chocolate to warm up afterward.
- Horseback Riding: Get to know the Icelandic horse on a riding tour through the countryside. Icelandic horses are small, friendly, and very intelligent creatures, making this excursion perfect for both new and experienced riders. Riding helmets, boots, and rainwear are provided.
- Langjökull Glacier Snowmobiling: Race across a glacier on a snowmobile. No prior experience is needed; you only have to bring warm clothes and good shoes. Use of overalls, helmets, and balaclavas are included.
Day 3: Hiking in Thorsmörk
Today, a guide will pick you up in the morning to take you to Þórsmörk, a remote and beautiful valley deep in the Icelandic Highlands. You’ll travel in a super jeep, a large vehicle designed to cross rivers and tackle the rugged Highland terrain. From the super jeep, you’ll have spectacular views of mountains and glaciers, but once in Þórsmörk, you’ll have the opportunity to explore the area on foot. After a day of adventure, you’ll return to your accommodation in South Iceland.
Highlights:
- Icelandic Highlands
- Þórsmörk Valley
- Mt. Hekla
- Krossá River
Optional Activities
- There are no optional activities for this day
Day 4: Visiting the South Coast
On the fourth day of your tour, you’ll explore the beauty of South Iceland. You’ll visit several waterfalls, including Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss, both of which are known for their impressive height and power. From there, you’ll travel to the black-sand beach of Reynisfjara. Keep an eye out for puffins, which can often be spotted nesting in the cliffs during the summer months. As the day draws to a close, head to your accommodation in the charming seaside village of Vík.
Highlights
- Seljalandsfoss Waterfall
- Skógafoss Waterfall
- Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach
- Vík Village
Optional Activities
- Sólheimajökull Glacier Hiking: This glacier hike is fun and easy, requiring no prior experience. The tour provides an English-speaking glacier guide and supplies necessary safety gear such as a helmet, crampons, and an ice axe.
- Sólheimajökull Glacier Snowmobiling: Race across a glacier on a snowmobile. No prior experience is needed; you only have to bring warm clothes and good shoes. Use of overalls, helmets, and balaclavas are included.
Day 5: Discovering Vatnajökull National Park
On this day of your tour, you’ll embark on a scenic drive towards Vatnajökull National Park, where you’ll find the beautiful Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon and the Diamond Beach. On the way, you can stop at Skaftafell Nature Reserve for a hike if you’re feeling adventurous. The reserve is home to stunning hiking trails, offering views of glaciers and waterfalls. At the end of the day, you’ll retire at accommodation in the charming fishing village of Höfn.
Highlights:
- Skaftafell Nature Reserve
- Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon
- Diamond Beach
Optional Activities
- Skaftafell Glacier Hiking: This glacier hike is fun and easy, requiring no prior experience. The tour provides an English-speaking glacier guide and supplies necessary safety gear such as a helmet, crampons, and an ice axe.
- Amphibian Boat Tour: Sail amongst the enormous icebergs on Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon. This tour is especially suited for families with young children as well as photographers looking for a great shot of the ice. Included is a guided tour in English and the use of a lifevest.
- Zodiac Boat Tour: Get a front-row seat to see giant icebergs floating on a glacier lagoon. The small Zodiac boat can get close to the icebergs, giving you a unique perspective over the bergs. Includes the use of floatation overalls and lifejackets.
Day 6: Exploring East Iceland
Exploring East Iceland will take you through many breathtaking fjords and charming fishing villages. The scenery will be stunning as you drive along the winding roads, taking in the beauty of the rugged landscape. You’ll have the opportunity to explore Hallormsstaðaskógur Forest, home to Iceland’s largest natural woodland. While there, you can keep an eye out for the legendary Lagarfljót Worm; a monster said to inhabit the nearby Lagarfljót Lake. You’ll spend the night in or near Egilsstaðir Town.
Highlights:
- Mt. Vestrahorn
- Djúpivogur Town
- Lake Lagarfljót
- Hallormsstaðaskógur Forest
Optional Activities
- Vök Nature Baths: Vök Nature Baths are surrounded by nothing but the untouched nature of East Iceland. The ticket includes entry to the baths and a tisane brewed from spring water and local herbs at the infusion bar.
Day 7: Relaxing by Lake Myvatn
On your 7th day, you’ll explore the breathtaking sites near Lake Mývatn. In addition to Lake Mývatn itself, you’ll visit Dimmuborgir, a unique lava field made up of twisted rock formations created by volcanic activity thousands of years ago, and Námaskarð Pass, an otherworldly geothermal area. After a full day of exploration, you’ll spend the night in the area, allowing you to rest and recharge before your next adventure.
Highlights:
- Lake Mývatn
- Grjótagjá Cave
- Námaskarð Geothermal Area
- Dimmuborgir Lava Field
Optional Activities
- Mývatn Nature Baths: Unwind in geothermal water just South of the Arctic Circle. Your experience includes access to the Mývatn Nature Baths’ geothermal waters and steam room. Alcoholic beverages are available to purchase for those over 20 years of age.
Day 8: Driving the Diamond Circle
On this exciting day of your tour, you’ll embark on a scenic drive along the Diamond Circle, one of Iceland’s most iconic routes. Your first stop will be at the magnificent Dettifoss Waterfall, known for its impressive power and size. Next, you’ll visit Ásbyrgi Canyon, a unique horseshoe-shaped valley steeped in mythology and legend, before heading to the charming town of Húsavík, one of the best places in the world to go whale watching. Spend another night at your Mývatn accommodations.
Highlights:
- Dettifoss Waterfall
- Selfoss Waterfall
- Ásbyrgi Canyon
- Húsavík Town
Optional Activities
- Húsavík Whale Watching Tour: See the whales in their natural habitat. Admission includes a professionally guided tour and warm, floatable overalls for your safety and comfort. Also included is a second try in case there are no sightings.
- Whale and Puffin Watching RIB Boat Tour: Hop aboard a boat and explore the diverse marine life around Iceland. You’ll search for both the mighty whales and the adorable puffins on this tour. This tour includes a specialized guide, warm safety overalls, and a little surprise from a local winemaker.
- GeoSea Geothermal Sea Baths: Unwind and enjoy the stunning view at GeoSea Geothermal Sea Baths in the town of Húsavík. GeoSea limits the number of guests, allowing for a more peaceful and relaxing experience for those who visit.
Day 9: Sights and Sounds of the Troll Peninsula
Begin the day with a visit to the beautiful Goðafoss Waterfall, followed by a stop at the North’s largest town, Akureyri. Then, it’s time to head to the Troll Peninsula, where you’ll drive on scenic mountain roads until you reach Siglufjörður, a charming fishing village that boasts colorful houses, a scenic harbor, and a fascinating history. Before arriving at your accommodation in northwest Iceland, stop at the iconic rock stack Hvítserkur.
Highlights:
- Akureyri Town
- Goðafoss Waterfall
- Siglufjörður Town
- Hvítserkur Rock Stack
Optional Activities
- Akureyri Whale Watching Tour: See the whales in their natural habitat. Admission includes a professionally guided tour and warm, floatable overalls for your safety and comfort. Also included is a second try in case there are no sightings.
- Beer Spa: Soak in hops and yeast at the Beer Spa. Your experience includes a soak in a single or double tub, a beer draught at every tub for anybody over 20, and access to the outside hot tubs.
- Horseback Riding: Get to know the Icelandic horse on a riding tour through the countryside. Icelandic horses are small, friendly, and very intelligent creatures, making this excursion perfect for both new and experienced riders. Riding helmets, boots, and rainwear are provided.
Day 10: Exploring West Iceland
Begin your day with a scenic drive to West Iceland, where you’ll be immersed in the area’s rich history and natural beauty. You’ll visit two stunning waterfalls, Hraunfossar and Barnafoss, known for their unique geological formations and picturesque views. Next, you’ll stop at Deildartunguhver Hot Springs, the largest hot spring in Europe. Finally, you’ll head to your accommodation in the Borgarnes area, where you can relax and take in the beautiful surroundings.
Highlights:
- Hraunfossar Waterfalls
- Barnafoss Waterfall
- Reykholt Village
- Borgarnes Town
Optional Activities
- Langjökull Ice Cave Tunnels: Step inside Iceland’s second-largest glacier. The man-made tunnels provide visitors with the unique opportunity to explore deep inside the heart of an ice cap. Included are a guided tour, transportation from the base camp up the glacier, and free wifi on the glacier shuttle.
- Viðgelmir Lava Cave: One of the largest caves in Iceland. The tour includes an English-speaking guide and the use of caving equipment such as a helmet and headlamp.
Day 11: Discovering the Snæfellsnes Peninsula
Today’s tour itinerary will take you on a journey to discover the wonders of the Snæfellsnes Peninsula. You’ll start by visiting Arnarstapi, a small fishing village that offers breathtaking views of the rugged coastline. Next, you’ll travel to Djúpalónssandur, a black sand beach known for its unique rock formations and otherworldly atmosphere. You’ll then move on to Mt. Kirkjufell, one of Iceland’s most iconic landmarks. After a full day of exploring, you’ll return to Reykjavík.
Highlights:
- Arnarstapi Hamlet
- Djúpalónssandur Beach
- Lóndrangar Cliffs
- Mt. Kirkjufell
Optional Activities
- Ólafsvík Whale Watching Tour: See the whales in their natural habitat. Admission includes a professionally guided tour and warm, floatable overalls for your safety and comfort.
- Viking Sushi Boat Tour: Travel around the countless islands found in Breiðafjörður Bay. Keep an eye out for birds such as fulmars and adorable puffins. The tour’s highlight is when the crew pulls up fishing nets and allows guests to try fresh scallops and sea urchins.
Day 12: Departure and Goodbye to Iceland
On the final day of your tour in Iceland, you can explore Reykjavík a little if your flight doesn’t depart until later in the day. Alternatively, you take an optional tour like visiting a geothermal spa or going whale watching. When it comes time to leave for the airport, allow plenty of time to return your rental vehicle to ensure a safe and stress-free journey back home. Though your time in Iceland may have come to an end, the memories and experiences you’ve gained over the past few days will stay with you for a lifetime.
Highlights:
- Harpa Concert Hall
- Alþingi Parliament House
- Tjörnin Lake
Optional Activities
- Blue Lagoon: Your experience includes access to the Blue Lagoon, a rejuvenating silica mud mask, complimentary towel service, and your choice of a first drink.
- Sky Lagoon: Included is access to the Sky Lagoon, with the exquisite Skjól Ritual experience.
- FlyOver Iceland: FlyOver Iceland will allow you to virtually soar over Iceland’s most iconic landscapes, while special effects — including wind, mist, scent, and motion — help create the illusion of flight.
- Whales of Iceland: Whales of Iceland is the largest whale exhibition in Europe. The display features life-size models of 23 whale species found in Icelandic waters, as well as interactive information stands that help enhance the experience and educate visitors.
