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This Iceland adventure starts and ends in Reykjavík and takes you through glaciers, geysers, volcanoes, and breathtaking waterfalls. Go beyond the usual paths for unforgettable moments. In winter, explore ice caves and observe the Northern Lights.
Choose from two great options:
You’ll be staying in Reykjavík on your first and last nights, so you can settle in easily and enjoy a hassle-free week of adventure.
Given its popularity and unique experiences, this tour has been recognized as a nominee for TourRadar's Best Tour in Iceland.
If you'd prefer a shorter trip without Reykjavík accommodations, take a look at our 6-Day Ring Road Tour of Iceland.
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Activities included in the Adventure Package
On this 8-day Iceland Ring Road tour, we give you the best of Iceland: vibrant Reykjavik, the famous Golden Circle, quaint fishing villages, the majestic Vatnajokull Glacier, lunar-like valleys, and breathtaking coastlines.
Go glacier hiking, envelope yourself in the warm Myvatn Nature Baths, and sail across the longest fjord in Iceland, searching for giant whales. In winter, chase the Northern Lights and visit glistening ice caves. If you’re up for big adventures, you can’t miss out on these eight days in Iceland.
This tour around Iceland includes two nights’ accommodation in Reykjavik. Your first and last nights are spent in the capital city, allowing you to start and end your trip hassle-free.
If you’re not up for a two-night stay in Reykjavik but still want to circle the entire Ring Road with an expert guide, check out our favorite 6-Day Ring Road Tour Around Iceland.
“Best Tour in Iceland” by TourRadar - This adventure earned the prestigious Tour of the Year title, based on glowing traveler reviews from around the world.
Today, you get to explore the city of Reykjavík - you make your own exciting itinerary!
Maybe you want to wander around and get your bearings? Strolling along two great Reykjavík shopping streets, the famous Laugavegur and the slightly less well-known Skólavörðustigur, you will really get a feel for the essence of Reykjavík.
For the best view over the city, visit the Hallgrímskirkja church and climb to the top of the tower. The design was inspired by Svartifoss, the black waterfall at Skaftafell. A white church inspired by a black basalt waterfall? Maybe you will believe us when we say Icelanders are quirky folk!
When you're ready for some culture, visit one of the city’s excellent museums, such as the National Museum, Reykjavík Art Museum, or the quirky Icelandic Phallological Museum.
The city´s thermal swimming pools are open from early until late. Outdoor bathing is a popular year-round pastime activity in Iceland, so quite a few thermal pools are dotted around Reykjavík. Their hot tubs are blissful! Laugardalslaug is the largest outdoor pool, but the smaller ones are incredibly charming, too.
Your hotel or guest house will not be far from Reykjavík´s attractions. Strætó runs a regular bus service, connecting all districts with the city center. You will find their timetables and information in English here. Alternatively, head a couple of miles away from downtown and into nature to chase the Northern Lights in winter.
This tour kicks off with Iceland's most iconic sights. After pick-up at your hotel in Reykjavik between 8:00 and 8:30, we head to the first Golden Circle stop, Þingvellir National Park.
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Þingvellir is where the world’s oldest parliament, Alþing, was established in 930 AD/CE. You'll also see the Mid-Atlantic Ridge, where the tectonic plates slowly drift apart, creating an epic landscape.
Next, we visit the famous Strokkur geyser at Geysir Hot Springs, which erupts every few minutes, shooting water up to 82 feet (25 meters). The nearby Great Geysir gave its name to all geysers. It's a surreal experience surrounded by steam and bubbling geothermal pools.
The last Golden Circle stop is the powerful Gullfoss waterfall, where the Hvítá River drops in two stages, creating a stunning spectacle with mist and rainbows on sunny days.
Afterward, we journey south to visit two epic 200-foot (60-meter) waterfalls. Seljalandsfoss has a unique path that takes you behind the waterfall, while Skógafoss cascades from the former sea cliffs into the tranquil Skóga River below.
Then, we’ll stop at Reynisfjara black sand beach, famous for its dramatic basalt-column cave and the eerie Reynisdrangar peaks rising from the sea.
Your day ends with a stay at the country hotel in the Kirkjubæjarklaustur area. From September to April, if conditions allow, your guide will help you search for the Northern Lights.
Today, we journey through surreal landscapes to reach Skaftafell in Vatnajökull National Park. On the way, we’ll catch glimpses of Mýrdalsjökull glacier, home to the notorious Katla and the imposing Eyjafjallajökull - volcanoes covered by glaciers.
Crossing the expansive Eldhraun lava field, we arrive at Skaftafell, a green oasis amidst black volcanic sands. Under the jagged mountain peaks and glaciers, the area is sheltered by a gentler climate than the surrounding area. The scenery is majestic and dramatically contrasting.
If you’ve chosen the Adventure Package, an expert guide will take you on an exhilarating glacier hike across one of Vatnajökull’s outlet glaciers, the largest glacier in Europe. The glacier is stunning, but there is more to this blue-and-white ice than meets the eye! You will learn some incredible glacier facts and see sights that will be treasured memories forever.
From October to April, the glacier hike is replaced with an extraordinary tour of the crystal ice caves that form each winter within the glacier. Your guide will lead you through these caves to explore the magic of glaciers from the inside!
Next, we visit the famous Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon, where massive ice chunks that brief off a glacier float across the shimmering waters. This lagoon, known for James Bond and other movies, is a world-famous destination. Most people are astounded by the incredible shapes, blue tones, and the large size of many of the icebergs. Nearby, we’ll stop by Diamond Beach, where the blue and white icebergs wash ashore and glisten against the black volcanic sands, creating an unforgettable sight.
From September to April, if conditions are right, we’ll chase the Northern Lights. Your accommodation will be in the Southeast, and if the skies are clear, your guide will give tips for spotting the aurora.
Today, we journey through the stunning Eastfjords, a remote region known for its dramatic landscapes. Towering mountains and narrow fjords will fill the horizon, creating views that will keep you captivated the entire day.
Our first stop is Djúpivogur, a quaint fishing village nestled at the edge of the land. Known for its rich birdlife and natural beauty, the village is also home to the famous outdoor sculpture Eggin í Gleðivík, which features 34 large eggs representing the bird species that frequent the area. It’s a lovely tribute to the wild nature that thrives here.
Afterward, we’ll make a brief stop in Egilsstaðir, the largest town in East Iceland, set along the Lagarfljót River. Surrounded by peaceful forests and hills, it’s the perfect spot for a quick break before continuing our journey.
Our day ends at the Wilderness Center, an immersive destination where you’ll experience authentic Icelandic highland life. You can enjoy outdoor activities and access the museum's exhibits on highland living and Icelandic history free of charge. Afterward, relax in the warm pool at the traditional bathhouse and enjoy local cuisine before resting in your accommodation in charming historic buildings.
Tonight, we’ll stay in the unique rooms of the Wilderness Center. If conditions are right, your guide can help you see the Northern Lights (from September to April).
On this tour, but especially today, you will witness the incredibly different sides of Icelandic nature, from the barest Arctic desert lands to the lush fertility.
Our journey to North Iceland will take us first to Stuðlagil Canyon, one of the world’s most enchanting basalt rock formations. It's famous for its striking columnar basalt formations and the vibrant blue-green waters flowing through the canyon.
Your next attraction is the lunar-like vistas, steaming fumaroles, and boiling multi-colored mud pots at the Námaskarð geothermal area. This place will leave you feeling like you have taken flight and arrived on another planet with starkly barren yet beautiful scenes!
We continue our journey around Lake Mývatn - a shallow lake formed by volcanic activity around 2,300 years ago. Its landscape is shaped by craters, lava fields, and geothermal areas, making it a fascinating spot to explore. The area is also home to diverse bird species, including more types of ducks than anywhere else in Europe.
As an optional extra, you can visit the naturally heated Mývatn Nature Baths, also known as the "Blue Lagoon of the North." These geothermal pools are fed by mineral-rich water from deep below the surface, about 8,200 feet (2,500 meters) down. There’s a swim-up bar and steam baths, making it an ideal place to relax in the natural warmth from the earth.
Continuing with the unearthly theme, we visit the Dimmuborgir lava formations. Your guide will tell you how these fantastic lava shapes, often called 'the Dark Castles,' were created and the rich mythology linked to them.
Finally, we’ll stop at Goðafoss, a glorious crescent-shaped waterfall. According to the legend, this is the waterfall into which Iceland's last great Pagan leader is said to have cast his statues of the Pagan Gods when Iceland converted to Christianity.
Your accommodation for the night will be at a country hotel in Akureyri. If the conditions are favorable, you can hunt for the Northern Lights on winter nights.
* 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.
Today is a dream day for lovers of wildlife. From Akureyri, our route to Dalvík follows the western side of stunning Eyjafjörður (the Island Fjord). The views are absolutely eye-candy, with towering mountains and open ocean views. The mountains keep getting steeper as we approach Dalvík, a charming village still a traditional fishing community.
From Dalvík’s harbor, we set sail on an exciting whale-watching boat tour, included in the Adventure Package. With a 98% success rate, you’ll have an incredible chance to spot majestic creatures like humpback and minke whales, along with playful white-beaked dolphins and porpoises.
Next, we will make a stop in Siglufjörður, a little town with a fascinating fishing history. It is, perhaps, hard to believe now that this picturesque place was referred to as ‘the herring capital of Europe’ in the first half of the 20th century.
We continue our journey around the stunning Tröllaskagi (Troll Peninsula), passing through charming villages and lush farmlands that offer a glimpse into rural Icelandic life. You'll spot plenty of sturdy Icelandic horses grazing in the fields—this region is known for its horse farms. Before reaching our accommodation, we'll explore the picturesque Skagafjörður, a fjord dotted with islands and brimming with hidden wonders.
You will spend your night at a hotel in the little university-centered community at Laugarbakki. From September to April, ask your guide to direct you toward the Northern Lights at night if the conditions will be good to spot them.
The final day of your fantastic trip around Iceland has a water and history theme! We’ll explore the natural and historic wonders of West Iceland. The day begins with a short hike up Grábrók crater, for superb views over the surrounding lava fields.
Afterward, we’ll visit the historic site of Reykholt, once the home of Snorri Sturluson, one of Iceland’s most famous medieval writers and historians. You’ll see Snorralaug, the ancient geothermal pool where Snorri is said to have bathed, and learn about his remarkable contributions to Icelandic culture and Norse mythology.
Our next stop is at Deildartunguhver, the most powerful hot spring in Europe, which releases an incredible volume of hot water that supplies homes and towns in the area. The sight of the bubbling geothermal activity is quite a spectacle.
From there, we’ll head to the unique Hraunfossar, where water cascades out from underneath a lava field, creating a series of delicate, wide falls. Just a short distance away is Barnafoss, or "Children’s Falls," a waterfall with a local legend about the tragic origin of its name.
Before making our way back to Reykjavík, we’ll stop at Sturlureykir horse farm, where you’ll meet the charming Icelandic horses and learn more about their special role in Icelandic life. Our journey concludes as we drive along the scenic Hvalfjörður, arriving in Reykjavík around 5-6 p.m., where you'll be dropped off at your accommodation.
Today, you get a second chance to catch up on any Reykjavík must-see sights and experiences you missed out on before your tour. After breakfast at your hotel, check off anything remaining on your capital city of Iceland bucket list.
If you haven’t tried an outdoor thermal pool yet, consider visiting Laugardalslaug, Iceland's largest pool, or the charming Sundhöllin in central Reykjavík. Walking or cycling paths also connect Reykjavík to beautiful spots like Seltjarnarnes Peninsula or Mosfellsbær, both reachable by bus.
Whether it's relaxing, exploring museums, or taking one last adventure, your day is wide open for discovery!
The ice cave’s look cannot be guaranteed to match the photos, as these natural formations change with the seasons, time of day, lighting, and other environmental factors. Thank you for your understanding.
Our multi-day tours will give you a small group experience as they are operated in a mini-bus and you get a better connection with the guide.
By booking a multi-day tour with us, you don’t need to have to worry about finding accommodation during the time of the tour as our multi-day tour includes accommodation which is often booked far in advance. You will get more opportunities to explore Iceland further and experience places that you would normally not be able to see on a one-day tour.
All of our tours are English guided so you will have English speaking licensed guide throughout the tour that will tell you everything about what you see along the way and knows where the best locations to stop by at to get the absolute best experience.
When booking your tour you are guaranteed accommodations at a friendly country hotel and/or guesthouse. All of the hotels we work with are of the same standard and offer nice rooms with beds and linen. The standard room is a twin room but it is possible to request a double room or a triple room, with no extra charge. The rooms come with private or shared bathrooms, depending on your booking.
Free Wi-Fi, towels, a hairdryer, and a kettle are accessible at all of the hotels.
If you want to have your own room, then a single supplement is payable in order to secure a single room. If you do not wish to book a single room then you will be roomed with another traveler of the same gender.
Breakfast is included at the hotel/guesthouse restaurant during the tour. Meals and beverages are not included on your tour. However, we will make stops at restaurants and conveniences stores where you are able to purchase all necessities.
The average amount spent on food each day per person is 8,000 ISK (80$). Cash is not necessary, as credit cards are accepted at all restaurants and stores. A small amount of cash won't hurt though.
A typical breakfast buffet is included at all the hotels/guesthouses we stay at during the tour, allowing you to fuel up for the day on various slices of bread, toppings, cereal, fruits, and yogurt. Tea and coffee are also included, alongside a variety of additional tasty options.
Your guide will also find a good place for the group to eat lunch, where you can find a wide selection of dishes on the menu, so there will be options available for everyone. The dinner is usually at the hotels/guesthouses we stay at for the night. We will make stops at restaurants and convenience stores where you will be able to purchase all necessities.
The average amount spent on food each day per person is 8,000 ISK (80$). Cash is not necessary, as credit cards are accepted at all restaurants and stores. A small amount of cash won't hurt, though.
For multi-day tours, each participant is allowed to bring a small backpack and one piece of luggage weighing a maximum of 20 kg (44 lbs). If you are traveling with extra bags or heavier luggage, you will need to book suitable storage before you arrive; this will incur a small fee. There is the option to add luggage storage in Reykjavík during the booking process of your order in the extras section.
* The combined dimensions of each bag must not exceed 158 cm (62 in).
We welcome all participants of all ages older than the listed minimum age for each tour. Our average group usually consists of participants between the ages of 22 to 55 years. However, we have people of all ages, ranging from 8 to 99 years, joining our multi-day tours. We get a lot of solo travelers joining us, as well as families and friends.
If you find yourself having difficulties participating in any of the activities included in the tour, for example, a glacier activity, then you are more than welcome to skip it. Iceland is surrounded by beautiful scenery so you can explore your surroundings in the meantime r wait elsewhere while others do the activity. Our guide should be able to drop you off at a nearby place where there are some services available if requested.
The average is around 300 km (186 miles) per day on our multi-day tours. You’ll spend approximately 4-5 hours in the car each day. Stops are of course, made at multiple locations throughout the tour for sightseeing, activities, bathroom breaks, lunch stops, etc.
We do offer some necessary items for rent. For most of our multi-day tours, we rent out waterproof jackets and pants as well as hiking shoes. These items are available to book 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 that at least 24 hours before your tour starts, via our Customer Portal.
The Northern Lights are a natural phenomenon, and therefore we can unfortunately never promise that they will be seen on your tour. Their appearance depends upon atmospheric and weather conditions. The best time to see the lights is between September - March when it’s a dark and clear sky. The sky needs to be as dark as possible, so the best places to see them are well away from the city lights.
Most of the hotels on our tours are remotely located and, therefore, ideal for spotting the northern lights. If the forecast is in our favor, then it is very likely that you will be able to see the northern lights. Most of the hotels offer a Northern Lights wake-up call upon request if lights are spotted, so it is more likely that you will see the lights on a multi-day tour!
We always highly 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) you should be able to join the tour, but be aware that some risks could follow such as flight gets delayed and could, therefore, miss out on the tour.
