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About Tour

Imagine going away on an epic journey around Iceland’s entire Ring Road. Led by our expert guides, you'll explore the best of Iceland, from the erupting geysers of the famous Golden Circle to hidden gems like the Wilderness Center and Stuðlagil Canyon, perfect for epic photos. 

Choose between two fantastic options:

  • Standard Package: Relax with all sightseeing and accommodations, no extra activities.
  • Adventure Package: Everything in Standard, plus glacier hike or ice cave visit, and whale watching!

We handle all the planning and accommodations while you soak in Iceland's beauty. 

According to glowing reviews, this tour is as good as it gets. Book now and explore Iceland!

Highlights

  • The Ring Road
  • Stuðlagil Canyon
  • Golden Circle (Thingvellir, Geysir, Gullfoss)
  • Vatnajökull Glacier
  • Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss Waterfalls
  • Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach
  • Skaftafell National Park
  • Whale Watching in Dalvík
  • Icelandic Horse Farm
  • Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon
  • Lake Mývatn Geothermal Area
  • Goðafoss Waterfall
  • Wilderness Center
  • Northern Lights (Sept-Apr)
  • Myvatn Nature Baths (optional extra)

Included

  • Pick-up in Reykjavík
  • Drop-off in Reykjavík or Borgarnes
  • Accommodation with private bathroom - 5 nights
  • Breakfast each morning at hotels
  • English-speaking tour guide
  • Guided tour in minibus
  • All required safety equipment
  • Free WiFi on the bus
  • Activities in Wilderness Center
  • Glacier Hike on Vatnajökull Glacier from April to October *Adventure package only
  • Crystal Ice Cave from October to April *Adventure package only
  • Whale Watching in Dalvík *Adventure package only

What to bring

  • Warm outdoor clothing
  • A waterproof jacket and pants
  • Headwear and gloves
  • Good hiking boots are recommended

Tour Snapshot

Availability All Year
Duration 6 days
Departs From Reykjavik
Level Easy Suitable for most people in fair condition.
Minimum age 6 years (standard) / 8 years (adventure)
Ratio 1:18 Guide to client ratio
Accommodation Included
Pick Up Yes
Meet on Location No

From

1 950
Per
Adult

Activities included in the Adventure Package

  • Glacier hike on Vatnajökull Glacier (Apr-Oct)
  • Crystal Ice Cave visit (Oct-Apr)
  • Whale watching in Dalvík

You have selected Standard Package
You have selected Adventure Package

From

1 950
Book Now

Itinerary

Join this journey through Iceland's diverse landscapes, where every season brings its unique charm. From the mesmerizing Northern Lights in winter to the midnight sun of summer, experience the best of Iceland year-round!

In winter, you may witness the magical Northern Lights. You can also opt for the Adventure Package to explore the Crystal Ice Cave.

During summer, bask in the glow of the Arctic midnight sun and keep an eye out for playful puffins along the coastline. You might even encounter reindeer in the East.

In September, we might experience the countryside come alive during the annual sheep round-up!

6 Days Around Iceland Adventure Guide has a detailed list of information about everything you need to know about this 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.

Woman with red jacket by waterfall in Iceland

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!

Day Highlights
  • Þingvellir National Park
  • Geysir Hot springs
  • Gullfoss Waterfall
  • Seljalandsfoss Waterfall
  • Skógafoss Waterfall
  • Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach
  • Northern Lights (Sept-Apr)
Included
  • Guided tour in minibus
  • Visit to the highlights of Golden Circle
  • Visit the most famous attractions of the South Coast
  • One-night accommodation
Accommodation
Adventure Hotel Geirland
or similar

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.

Here, we will join our expert guide on a glacier hike across an outlet glacier of Vatnajökull. You’ll encounter incredible ice formations, crevasses, and the sparkling blue ice that glaciers are famous for! (Part of the Adventure package.)

Glacier hiking tour group going back

The hike is available in summer, but from October to April, we replace it with an unforgettable journey through the Crystal Ice Cave, a naturally formed ice cave with dazzling blue hues and intricate ice formations. The experience is surreal, and each cave is unique, shaped by the shifting glacier.

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.

Giant icebergs in Icelandic glacier lagoon

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.

Day Highlights
  • Vatnajökull National Park
  • Jökulsarlón Glacier Lagoon
  • The Crystal Beach (Diamond Beach)
  • Northern Lights (Sept-Apr)
Included
  • Breakfast at the hotel
  • Guided glacier hike (Apr - Oct) *Adventure package only
  • Visit to Crystal Ice Cave (Oct - April) *Adventure package only
  • Certified Glacier Guide
  • Specialized glacier gear
  • Visit to Jökulsarlón and the Diamond Beach
  • One-night accommodation
Accommodation
Adventure Hotel Hof

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.

Woman exploring exposition in Wilderness Center

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.

Day Highlights
  • The Eastfjords of Iceland
  • Djúpivogur Fishing Village
  • The town of Egilsstaðir
  • The Wilderness Center
  • Northern Lights (Sept-Apr)
Included
  • Breakfast at the hotel
  • Exploring the East Fjords of Iceland
  • Visit to the small fishing village of Djúpvogur
  • Free access to Wilderness Museum
  • One-night accommodation
Accommodation
Wilderness Center
or similar

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.

Studlagil canyon from above

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 Mývatn Nature Baths, 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.

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.

Day Highlights
  • Stuðlagil Canyon
  • Mývatn Lake area
  • Myvatn Nature Baths (optional extra)
  • Námaskarð geothermal area
  • Dimmuborgir formations
  • Goðafoss Waterfall
  • Northern Lights (Sept-Apr)
Included
  • Breakfast at the hotel
  • Guided visit to the highlights of the North
  • One-night accommodation
Accommodation
Berjaya Akureyri Hotel
or similar
Fishing village by the sea in Iceland

Get ready for an exciting whale-watching boat tour from Dalvík 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 Dalvík, 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.

Whale jumping near the tour boat

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.

Day Highlights
  • Akureyri - Capital of the North
  • Whale Watching from Dalvík
  • Siglufjörður Fishing Village
  • Tröllaskagi Peninsula
  • Northern Lights (Sept-Apr)
Included
  • Breakfast at the hotel
  • 3-hour Whale Watching sail tour *Adventure package only
  • Visit to Siglufjörður and other highlights
  • One-night accommodation
Accommodation
Hotel Laugarbakki
or similar

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.

Hraunfossar waterfall during autumn in Iceland

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 around 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.

Day Highlights
  • Borgarfjörður region
  • Hike up to Grábrók volcano crater
  • Deildartunguhver hot spring
  • Barnafoss & Hraunfossar waterfalls
  • Icelandic horse farm
  • Reykholt town
Included
  • Breakfast at the hotel
  • Visit to the highlights of Borgarfjörður
  • Visit to the historic site of Reykholt
  • Drop-off in Reykjavík or Borgarnes
  • 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.

  • 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.

Attractions Map

Explore the top attractions of the tour with our interactive map

Places You'll see

FAQ

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!

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