6-Day Around Iceland Ring Road Tour

Please be ready at your pick-up location in Reykjavík at 08:00 am. The pick-up process takes up to 30 minutes, so you may have to wait a few minutes, depending on where you are in Reykjavik. 

The first day of this trip is focused on the Golden Circle, the country's most famous sightseeing route.

We start at Þingvellir National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its geological and historical importance. It’s where Icelanders founded Althing, one of the world’s first democratic parliaments, in 930 CE. The dramatic cliffs of the rift valley mark the Mid-Atlantic Ridge, where the Eurasian and North American plates are slowly drifting apart.

Geysir, the hot spring that gave the word “geyser” to the world, is our next stop. Though it’s dormant today, nearby Strokkur steals the show, erupting every few minutes with powerful jets of hot water reaching up to 65-98 ft (20-30 m) into the air. The surrounding area is alive with bubbling fumaroles and steaming vents, showcasing Iceland’s geothermal energy.

Next, we visit the mighty Gullfoss waterfall, one of Iceland’s most iconic natural wonders. The Hvítá River crashes down in two stages, dropping into a canyon. Fed by the Langjökull glacier, Gullfoss is both stunning and powerful, with a rich history tied to Iceland's environmental movement.

Following the Ring Road along the scenic south coast, we arrive at Seljalandsfoss Waterfall. A path leads behind the cascade, and rainwear is a good idea as the spray can be strong. Walking behind the waterfall offers the best view, making it even more beautiful and elegant from every angle.

Next is Skógafoss, with its powerful 197-foot (60-meter) drop. On clear days, the surrounding glacier-topped mountains are stunning, and the spray often creates single or double rainbows, adding a magical touch.

Continuing with South Coast must-sees, we stop at the Reynisfjara black sand beach. Here, you can see the impressive basalt column cave and cliffs and look for the Reynisdrangar rock formations, said to be trolls turned to stone by sunlight.

You’ll spend the night at a country hotel near Kirkjubæjarklaustur. From September to April, it’s a perfect location to step outside to catch the Northern Lights!

Today is all about glaciers. Our journey begins as we pass by the great Mýrdalsjökull glacier, which conceals the feared volcano, Katla, beneath its icy cap. We then cross the vast Eldhraun lava field, a surreal landscape shaped by one of the largest lava flows in history in the 1783 eruption. The moss-covered lava rocks stretch as far as the eye can see!

Next, we arrive at Vatnajökull National Park, home to Europe’s largest glacier, Vatnajökull. This park covers around 14% of Iceland, making it the country’s largest protected area. With towering ice caps, deep valleys, and lush oases like Skaftafell, the harsh, rugged wilderness is strikingly contrasted with pockets of green forests.

From April to October, this tour includes a glacier hike led by an expert guide across one of the outlet glaciers of Vatnajökull, Europe’s largest glacier. During the hike, you’ll encounter incredible ice formations, deep crevasses, and the sparkling blue ice that makes these glaciers world-famous. This glacier hike is part of the Adventure package. 

From October to mid-April, the glacier hike is replaced with an unforgettable journey through the Crystal Ice Cave, a naturally formed cave inside Vatnajökull. The ice cave features dazzling blue colors and intricate formations. Each winter, the glacier shifts and reshapes the cave, making every visit a unique experience. This ice cave tour is part of the Adventure package. 

After your glacier adventure, we visit the famous Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon. Here, you’ll see massive icebergs calving off the Breiðamerkurjökull glacier, floating majestically across the lagoon. The beauty of this place is otherworldly, with icebergs shimmering in shades of blue and white.

From the lagoon, these icebergs drift toward Diamond Beach, where they rest on the black volcanic sands, sparkling like gems against the dark background. It’s a breathtaking sight and a photographer’s dream.

After a day filled with iconic sights, we’ll settle in comfortable accommodation in the Southeast, a prime spot for viewing the Northern Lights from September through April.

Today, we venture into the stunning Eastfjords. This region is known for its sharp mountain peaks, quiet fjords, and small coastal villages. It’s a place where you might spot reindeer roaming or catch sight of puffins along the cliffs. The landscapes here feel untouched and far from the usual paths.

We move on to Djúpivogur, a quiet fishing village on the edge of the fjord. With just a few hundred residents, life moves slowly. Known for its strong connection to nature and sustainability, this small community has unique outdoor artwork scattered around the village.

On our way, we will make a quick stop at Egilsstaðir, the largest town in East Iceland, which sits along the Lagarfljót River. Surrounded by forests and hills, it’s a peaceful place with a legendary twist—the mysterious Lagarfljót Worm, said to lurk in the depths of the lake.

Afterward, we will spend the rest of the day in the Wilderness Center, the only one of its kind in Iceland. On the edge of Iceland’s highlands, it feels like a step back in time. Old farmhouses, restored with care, let you experience how life once was here. It’s a place for stories—about the people who lived on the frontier and the wild, untamed land that still shapes their way of life.

*You will be able to access the museum’s exhibitions free of charge during your stay.  

When you arrive, you'll cross an old wooden bridge to your historic accommodation. In an open kitchen, you'll also enjoy meals made from fresh local ingredients.

After exploring, get ready for soaking in the hot spring spa like a real Viking! The bathhouse is built in an authentic style, with a traditional hot spring made from stones, just like the ones our ancestors used.

Today, we journey from East to North Iceland, with plenty of jaw-dropping sights along the way. First up is Stuðlagil Canyon, where you’ll see towering basalt columns rising straight from the turquoise waters of the Jökla River. The contrast of the dark, geometric rock formations against the vibrant blue-green water is unforgettable. This is one of the best-preserved basalt formations in the world, and the view from the canyon rim is truly breathtaking.

We travel from the roaring glacial rivers to the mystical, steam-filled landscape of the Námaskarð geothermal area. Here, vibrant boiling mud pools bubble beneath colorful mineral deposits while gentle clouds of sulfur-scented steam rise from fumaroles, drifting across the land like something out of this world.

We continue our journey around the peaceful Lake Mývatn, a region famous for its unique volcanic landscapes and diverse birdlife. The shallow lake is scattered with over 50 small islands shaped by volcanic activity.

As an optional extra, you can visit the Earth Lagoon (formerly Myvatn Nature Baths) (optional extra), often referred to as the “Blue Lagoon of the North.” These geothermal hot springs are fed by water drawn from 8,200 feet (2,500 meters) underground. Relax in the mineral-rich, warm water, surrounded by the tranquil beauty of northern Iceland. From Jan–July 15th 2026, we’ll go to Forest Lagoon instead of Earth Lagoon due to renovations.

Next, we visit Dimmuborgir rock formations, known for their dramatic, troll-like looks. This area, often called the "dark cities," was created when the roof of a massive lava tube collapsed, leaving behind towering lava pillars.

The vast and dreamy crescent-shaped waterfall - Goðafoss, is the last stop of the day before we journey to Eyjafjörður, an outstandingly beautiful fjord with high mountains.

Our accommodation for the night will be at a country hotel in Akureyri. You will also have a chance to explore the fishing town in the north. From September to April, you can head out from your cozy guesthouse at night to see the Northern Lights.

*Please be aware that during winter, road conditions may prevent access to Stuðlagil. However, we'll make sure to offer other exciting activities for you to enjoy. Your safety and satisfaction are our top priorities. Thank you for your understanding.

Get ready for an exciting whale-watching boat tour from Eyjafjörður Fjord today! With a 98% success rate, you’re almost guaranteed to spot cetaceans like humpback whales, dolphins, porpoises, and other ocean wildlife. (Part of the Adventure package.)

After whale watching, we’ll head to the charming village of Siglufjörður, Iceland’s northernmost town. Known for its colorful harbor, it was once the country's herring capital, full of activity in the early 20th century.

As we make our way around Tröllaskagi (the Troll Peninsula), you’ll see some of Iceland’s best coastal views and ski areas. The small, character-filled villages give a real sense of what life is like in these remote parts of the country. We’ll also pass through active farming areas on the way to Laugarbakki, where you’ll get a closer look at the rural side of Iceland.

Before reaching our accommodation, we’ll make a few stops to explore the picturesque Skagafjörður, a fjord dotted with islands and full of secrets.

Your accommodation for the night will be at a small hotel in the Laugarbakki area. In the winter evenings, you can slip away from the hotel to chase the spectacular light show, which paints the sky with green-purple hues.

On our final day, we will find ourselves in West Iceland – an area that Lonely Planet voted as one of the best travel destinations. Borgarfjörður fjord area has many splendid sights, and we will focus on these today. Your itinerary will begin with a short hike up to Grábrók volcano crater, with fantastic views of the surrounding lava fields.

After our hike, we’ll head to Reykholt, a key historical site. Here, we’ll visit Snorralaug, the hot spring pool of Snorri Sturluson, one of the most well-known Icelanders of all time. Snorri was a leader, historian, and the author of some Icelandic Sagas.

Next, we’ll visit Deildartunguhver, Europe’s most powerful hot spring. Its abundant geothermal water is essential for the people of Borgarfjörður. It is used to fill swimming pools, heat homes, and provide hot water in towns like Borgarnes and Akranes.

Next, we’ll visit Hraunfossar Waterfall, where countless tiny, ice-cold streams pour out from the Hallmundarhraun lava field, creating a stunning and graceful display. Just a short walk away is Barnafoss, or “Children’s Falls,” named after a local legend about a tragic accident that gave it its haunting name.

We’ll also stop at Sturlureykir horse farm, where you’ll meet the friendly Icelandic horses, pet them, interact, and learn about these fascinating creatures that have been part of Icelandic life for centuries.

On our way back to Reykjavík, we’ll take the scenic route via Hvalfjörður (Whale Fjord). We expect to arrive in the capital around 5–6 p.m. and will drop you off at your original pick-up point.

• Myvatn Nature Baths are not included in any package and must be paid for separately as an optional extra.
  
  
• Solo travelers have to choose the single room supplement if they want a private room. Otherwise, they might be accommodated with another solo traveler of the same gender.
  
  
• Sometimes, due to weather conditions, we may need to change the glaciers or glacier outlets on this tour. Glacier outlets might include Svínafellsjökull, Falljökull, and Sólheimajökull, all equally as beautiful.
  
  
• From Jan–July 15th 2026, we’ll visit Forest Lagoon instead of Mývatn Nature Baths, which will be closed for renovations.
  
  
• We replace the glacier hike from October to April with a journey through the Crystal Ice Cave.
  
  
• Hotels can change during your trip.
  
  
• During the booking process, you can rent sturdy hiking boots, a waterproof jacket, and pants. Please note that these items must be ordered in advance, as they are not available for rent on-site.

Pick-up starts at 08:00 am from your hotel or a nearby meeting point in Reykjavík. Picking everyone up can take up to 30 minutes, your patience is much appreciated. Available pick-up points: Arctic Adventures’s pick-up list.