Your true Icelandic winter adventure awaits. Book your tour now!
We've curated this exceptional eight-day tour for those who want to make the most of their time in Iceland, starting and ending in Reykjavík. Explore shimmering glaciers, geysers, volcanoes, and stunning waterfalls. Venture off the beaten path for unforgettable moments. In winter, step into ice caves and chase the Northern Lights.
You can choose between two excellent options:
With accommodations in the capital provided on the first and last nights, you can simply arrive and immerse yourself in an amazing week in Iceland hassle-free.
Join this award-winning experience - TourRadar's Best Tour nominee in Iceland.
We also offer this tour without accommodation in Reykjavík. Please have a look at our 6 Days Around Iceland Adventure.
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Activities included in the Adventure Package
Explore Iceland for over 8 days, with 6 days of pure sightseeing on the Ring Road around the island. You'll stay in Reykjavík at the beginning and end of your journey for a seamless transition into and out of your adventure.
Plus, with our Adventure Package, you can enjoy specially arranged activities throughout the tour. Benefit from expert guides, unique experiences, and insider knowledge that enhance your overall exploration of Iceland.
Each night, you will stay at a different country hotel or guesthouse ideally situated for viewing the Northern Lights from September to April. Your guide will provide tips to help you witness this ethereal spectacle firsthand!
You can find everything you need to know about your tour around Iceland in this printable guidebook, 8 Days Around Iceland Adventure Guide.
Building your own exciting itinerary in the City of Reykjavík is easy!
Walking Laugavegur and Skólavorðustígur shopping streets is a great way to capture the essence of Reykjavík. Browse in shops for unusual items, relax in a charming café, then wander some more.
You will come across local crafts and the iconic tall white Hallgrímskirkja church. Its design is inspired by the Svartifoss waterfall at Skaftafell. Go to the top of the tower for a grandstand view of the city. It is well worth it!
There are a few fabulous museums, covering everything from history and the building of the Icelandic nation at the National Museum to photography at the Reyjavík Museum of Photography or Icelandic culture at the Culture House. If you love art, there are quite a few galleries, including the National Gallery of Iceland, Reykjavík Art Museum, and Kjarvalstaðir.
Rekjavík’s thermal swimming pools are open early and into the evening. The largest open-air pool, Laugardalslaug, has excellent hot tubs where you can relax with the locals and tourists. All year round, outdoor bathing is huge in Iceland!
Your accommodation will be in Reykjavik within easy reach of the attractions in the city. A regular bus service serves all districts to the city center. Strætó operates local buses. Timetables and information in English can be found here.
More ideas for making the most of a short time in Reykjavík, including money-saving tips, can be found in the article Top Things to Do in Reykjavik in 2 Days.
Please check out our Reykjavik City Walking tour if you want a guided tour around the city.
Your first day starts with a pick-up in Reykjavík at 8:00 AM. Today, we'll focus on visiting the fabulous and famous Golden Circle attractions, beginning with Þingvellir National Park.
This UNESCO World Heritage Site holds immense geological, historical, and cultural significance. The historic Icelandic Parliament, called the Alþing, was founded here in 930 AD. The Mid-Atlantic Ridge, where the Eurasian and North American tectonic plates continue to move apart, runs right through Þingvellir. You will see the rugged plate edge of the gorge.
Your next stop is at the Geysir geothermally active area, home to Great Geysir. This famous spouting hot spring gave us the English word 'geyser.' You will witness Strokkur, the most active hot spring in recent times, blasting powerful torrents of superheated water every 5 to 10 minutes. Steaming fumaroles and hot springs can also be seen around the area.
Before we continue along the South Coast, we’ll stop at the last Golden Circle highlight—Gullfoss waterfall, or the "Golden Falls." You’ll see golden mists swirling as the powerful Hvítá River plunges down two drops of 36 feet (11 meters) and 69 feet (21 meters). Hvítá, meaning "White River," is a glacial torrent that begins at Langjökull, Iceland’s second-largest glacier.
On our way to your country hotel, we’ll stop at two of Iceland’s most iconic waterfalls, Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss. Both stand around 197 feet (60 meters) tall but are strikingly different. Skógafoss flows gracefully from ancient sea cliffs, while Seljalandsfoss has a pathway that lets you walk behind the cascading water for a unique perspective.
Next, we’ll visit Reynisfjara, the famous black sand beach. A short stroll along the shore brings you to an impressive basalt-column cave, and just offshore, you’ll see the towering, troll-like Reynisdrangar sea stacks rising from the waves.
After settling into the country hotel in Kirkjubæjarklaustur, if conditions are good, you can slip away for a couple of hours to chase the Northern Lights (from September to April).
We journey through surreal landscapes to reach Skaftafell in Vatnajökull National Park. Along the way, you'll catch glimpses of Mýrdalsjökull glacier, home to the infamous Katla volcano, and the mighty Eyjafjallajökull. Crossing the vast Eldhraun lava field, we arrive at Skaftafell, a green oasis surrounded by black volcanic sands. Its sheltered location allows lush vegetation and birch forests to thrive.
If you’ve chosen the Adventure Package, our expert glacier guide will lead you on a thrilling hike across one of the outlets of Vatnajökull, Europe’s largest glacier. You’ll explore the striking blue and white ice formations up close.
From October to April, this adventure transforms into a magical journey through the glacier's crystal ice caves, where new ones form each winter. It’s a truly otherworldly experience, with a unique look at the glacier from within!
Next, we head to the breathtaking Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon, where towering icebergs drift through the shimmering waters. Made famous by James Bond and other films, this is the most iconic ice lagoon in the world. After soaking in the lagoon’s beauty, we’ll visit the stunning Diamond Beach, where blue and white icebergs, washed ashore by the tide, glisten against the coal-black sand. It feels like stepping into a magical world of ice and surreal landscapes.
From September to April, if conditions are right, we’ll be on the lookout for the Northern Lights at night. Your accommodation will be in the Southeast, and if the skies are clear, ask your guide for tips on the best places to spot the aurora.
Today, we journey through the stunning Eastfjords, traveling along narrow roads that wind between towering mountains and the ocean. We’ll pass through the remote Hvalnes Peninsula and witness the dramatic landscapes of landslides, and the picturesque fjords.
Our next stop is Djúpivogur, a charming fishing village known for its eco-friendly and welcoming community. Here, you’ll see the famous outdoor sculpture Eggin í Gleðivík, a series of large stone eggs symbolizing local bird species.
On our way to the last destination of the day, we’ll stop in Egilsstaðir, the largest town in East Iceland, set along the Lagarfljót River.
Afterward, we head to the Wilderness Center, an interactive historical site on the edge of Iceland’s large adn uninhabited highlands. The center is built around old farmhouses, carefully restored to reflect the way people lived here centuries ago.
Admission to the museum’s exhibitions is included, offering fascinating exhibits on highland living. You’ll stay in historic buildings, savor locally sourced meals, and unwind in the traditional bathing house’s warm pool.
We’ll spend the night in our rustic accommodations at the Wilderness Center, and if conditions are right from September to April, ask your guide for tips to go out in search of the Northern Lights!
Today, we’ll explore some of the most incredible sights in North Iceland. First up is Stuðlagil Canyon, one of the most spectacular basalt column formations in the world. These towering pillars, carved by the Jökla River, rise above vibrant blue-green waters—a sight that’s truly unforgettable.
Next, we’ll head to Námaskarð geothermal area, where you’ll step into a steaming, bubbling landscape that feels almost otherworldly. With its colorful mud pots and fumaroles sending clouds of steam across the bright, mineral-rich soil, it’s a view unlike anything else.
We’ll continue our journey around Lake Mývatn, a place shaped by volcanic forces and teeming with birdlife. The lake is scattered with over 50 small islands, all created by volcanic activity.
As an optional extra, you can visit the Mývatn Nature Baths, often called the "Blue Lagoon of the North." These geothermal pools are filled with mineral-rich water from 8,200 feet (2,500 meters) below the surface. You can also enjoy a swim-up bar and steam baths - it’s the perfect spot to enjoy the warmth coming straight from the earth’s core.
Afterward, we’ll visit Dimmuborgir, home to eerie, lava formations that look like they belong in a fantasy novel. Known as the "Dark Castles," these towering natural sculptures create an atmosphere full of mystery.
Then, it's on to Goðafoss, the "Waterfall of the Gods." Spanning 98 feet (30 meters) in a horseshoe shape, this stunning waterfall is steeped in history, tied to Iceland’s shift to Christianity when idols were cast into its powerful waters.
We’ll finish our day in Akureyri, where you’ll settle in for the night. If the skies are clear, your guide will help you chase the Northern Lights during the winter months.
* Please note that in winter, road conditions might limit access to Stuðlagil Canyon. If that happens– we’ll have other exciting activities lined up for you. Your safety and enjoyment always come first. Thank you for your understanding!
Our day begins with a scenic drive through charming towns nestled between mountains along the mesmerizing Eyjafjörður Fjord, Iceland’s longest fjord. We’re heading to Dalvík, a picturesque fishing town with a busy harbor and stunning views over Eyjafjörður and Hrísey Island. The high mountains behind us are home to some of the best ski slopes in the country.
From Dalvík’s harbor, you'll embark on an exctitng whale-watching boat tour, part of the Adventure Package. This experience boasts a 98% success rate in spotting whales, including humpbacks, white-beaked dolphins, and minke whales. Eyjafjörður’s striking natural beauty will be all around as we search for these magnificent creatures.
Next, we journey to the historic fishing village of Siglufjörður, famous for its herring boom in the early 20th century, which transformed the town into the herring capital of the North Atlantic. You’ll get a real feel for how life used to be in these remote coastal communities.
Continuing around Tröllaskagi (the Troll Peninsula), you’ll witness dramatic coastal scenery and towering mountains. Before reaching our accommodation, we’ll make a few stops to explore the picturesque Skagafjörður, a fjord dotted with islands and full of secrets.
We then pass through the agricultural heart of Iceland, known for its farms, as we make our way to Laugarbakki, where we’ll spend the night. If the conditions are right, your guide will help you chase the Northern Lights (from September to April).
On the final day of your adventure, we'll explore the remarkable sights of West Iceland. Our first stop is at Grábrók, an impressive volcanic crater surrounded by rugged, lunar-like lava fields. We will take a short hike to the top and get rewarded with sweeping views of the surrounding landscape.
At Reykholt, you'll step into one of Iceland’s most significant historical sites. This was once the home of Snorri Sturluson, a renowned saga writer, historian, and chieftain from the 13th century. As we explore, you’ll see Snorralaug, the ancient geothermal pool where Snorri is believed to have bathed.
Next, we’ll head to Deildartunguhver, Europe’s most powerful hot spring. Here, an incredible 50 gallons (180 liters) of boiling water per second gush from the earth at around 97°C (200°F). This natural powerhouse provides geothermal heating for nearby towns, and seeing it in action is an impressive reminder of Iceland’s volcanic energy.
We’ll then move on to witness the unique Hraunfossar waterfalls. Here, countless streams of water flow straight out of the lava field, creating a wide, mesmerizing cascade. Just a short walk away is Barnafoss, or "Children’s Falls," a waterfall with a tragic folklore tale behind its name.
Our journey continues to Sturlureykir horse farm, where you'll have the chance to meet the friendly Icelandic horses and learn about their role in Icelandic history and culture.
Finally, we’ll make our way back to Reykjavík, traveling via the scenic Hvalfjörður (Whale Fjord), and expect to arrive in the city around 5 – 6 pm, where you’ll be dropped off at your hotel.
You have another full day to soak in the beauty of Reykjavík, Iceland's vibrant capital. There’s still plenty to explore and discover! Wander along the scenic coastal paths that crisscross the city, offering stunning views from areas like Seltjarnarnes and Mosfellsbær, both easily accessible by bus. You could also visit Grasagarðurinn, the Reykjavík Botanical Gardens, next to Laugardalslaug, Iceland’s largest swimming pool.
Whether you choose to shop, relax in a cozy café, explore more museums and galleries, or book a last-minute adventure tour, the day is yours to enjoy!
We cannot guarantee that the actual view during your visit will match the photographs since ice caves are a natural phenomenon that undergoes constant change. How they look may vary depending on the season, time of day, lighting, and other factors.
We always recommend booking a multi-day tour starting at least one day after arriving in Iceland. If you’re flying in from the US or will be landing early (4-6:30 am) you should be able to join the tour, but some risks would follow (i.e if the flight gets delayed) and could, therefore, miss out on the tour.
Most of the hotels we use during our tours are remotely located and therefore ideal for spotting the northern lights. If the forecast is in your favor, then it is more than likely that you will be able to see the magical show put on by the dancing northern lights during your tour with us. Most of the hotels offer a Northern Lights wake-up call-up on request if the lights are spotted.
The Northern Lights are a natural phenomenon; therefore, we can unfortunately never promise they will be seen. Their appearance depends upon atmospheric and weather conditions. The best time to see them is between September and March when it’s dark and clear. The sky needs to be as dark as possible, so the best places to see them are well away from city lights (that’s where we are going!).
For more information on the Northern Lights, please look at our blog about Northern Lights.
If you are not sure that you have suitable gear for your tour, we offer some necessary items for rent. For most of our multi-day tours, we rent out waterproof jackets and pants as well as hiking boots. You can book these items and more under the selection “Extras” in the booking widget when booking your tour on our website.
If you have already booked the tour and wish to add some rental gear to your booking, you can do so at least 24 hours prior to your tour starting by using our customer portal - My Adventures, or contacting our customer care.
We drive on average around 300 km (186 miles) per day on our multi-day tours. You will be spending approximately 4-5 hours in the car each day. We do of course stop on multiple locations throughout the tour for sightseeing, activities, bathroom breaks and lunch stops.
We do welcome participants of all ages older than the listed minimum age for each tour. We have people of ages ranging from 8-99 years joining our multi-day tours. Our average group usually consists of participants between the age 20-55 years. We do get a lot of solo travellers joining our tours, as well as families and friends.
If you have difficulties participating in any of the activities included in the tour, for example, a glacier activity, you are more than welcome to skip it. You can explore your surroundings in the meantime or wait elsewhere. Our guide should be able to drop you off at a nearby place where there are some services available.
For multi-day tours, each participant is allowed to bring a small backpack and 1 piece of luggage weighing a maximum of 20 kg (44 lbs). If you have more or heavier luggage with you, you will need to book storage for the surplus luggage before you arrive, there is a small fee for using this facility. Luggage storage in Reykjavík can be added during the booking process of your order in the extras section.
* The combined dimensions of each bag must not exceed 158 cm (62 in).
Breakfast is included at all the hotels we stay in during the tour. The breakfast will be a typical breakfast buffet, offering bread, toppings, cereal, yogurt, fruits, coffee, and tea etc.
Your guide will also find a good place for the group to eat lunch. We always try to choose places that have a wide selection of dishes on the menu, so there will be options available for everyone. The dinner is usually at the hotels we stay at for the night.
If your tour includes accommodation, breakfast is always included during the tour at the hotel/guesthouse restaurant.
Meals and beverages are otherwise not included on your tour. (Unless it’s specifically stated in the description of the tour)
On our multi-day tours, we will be making stops at restaurants and convenience stores where you will be able to purchase all necessities. Cash is not necessary, as credit cards are almost always accepted. Having a small amount of cash doesn’t hurt though.
A single supplement is available if you want to have your own room, but you are not required to pay a single supplement. If you are a single traveler and do not wish to book a single room, you’ll be roomed with another traveler of the same gender.
When booking with Arctic Adventures, you are guaranteed an accommodation at a nice country hotel and/or a guesthouse. The hotels we have partnered up with are all of the same standard and offer nice rooms with made-up beds and private bathrooms. The standard room is a twin room but it’s possible to request a double room or a triple room, with no extra charge.
If you are traveling solo, you will have to add the single room fee if you wish to have a single room.
All hotels have free Wi-Fi. Towels, a hairdryer and a kettle are accessible at all of the hotels. Hotel breakfast is included!
