Experience true Nordic winter with these Iceland and Canada tours!

About Tour

Picture yourself away on a journey circling Iceland's iconic Ring Road, with expert guides leading the way. Witness geyser eruptions, tour the Golden Circle, see Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon, explore black sand beaches, and so much more. 

Prepare for exhilarating glacier hikes, ice cave explorations, encounters with majestic whales, and relaxation in the geothermal blue waters of Myvatn Nature Bath.

You've got two excellent choices:

  • Standard Package: All sightseeing and accommodations are included, but no extra activities.
  • Adventure Package: Everything in the Standard Package, plus a glacier hike or ice cave exploration and whale watching!

Every detail is taken care of, ensuring you can relax and enjoy Iceland's breathtaking landscapes. From hidden cultural treasures like the Wilderness Center to picturesque wonders like Stuðlagil Canyon, prepare for the adventure of a lifetime with just a click away!

Highlights

  • The Ring Road
  • Golden Circle (Þingvellir, Gullfoss, Geysir)
  • Stuðlagil Canyon
  • Skaftafell National Park
  • Lake Mývatn Geothermal Area
  • Myvatn Nature Baths (optional extra)
  • Crystal Ice Cave (Oct-Apr)
  • Vatnajökull Glacier
  • The Wilderness Center
  • South Coast (Seljalandsfoss, Skógafoss, Reynisfjara)
  • Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon
  • Goðafoss Waterfall
  • Icelandic Horse Farm
  • Northern Lights (Sept-April)

Included

  • Pick-up in Reykjavík
  • Drop-off in Reykjavík or Borgarnes
  • Accommodation with private bathroom - 5 nights
  • Breakfast each morning at your hotel
  • English-speaking adventure tour guide
  • Guided tour in minibus
  • Free WiFi on board your bus
  • All required safety equipment
  • 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
  • Water & wind-proof jacket and pants
  • Headwear and gloves
  • Good hiking boots are recommended
  • Warm socks (wool or synthetic recommended)
  • Sunglasses and sunscreen
  • Swimming suit and a towel

Tour Snapshot

Availability All year
Duration 6 days
Departs From Reykjavik
Difficulty Easy Suitable for most people in fair condition.
Minimum age 6 yrs (standard) / 8 yrs (adventure)
Group maximum 18 people
Meet on Location No
Pick Up Yes
Accommodation Included

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  • Award-Winning Tour
  • Bestseller
  • Small Group Experience
  • Expert Guides
  • Free Wifi
  • No Booking Fees

Activities included in the Adventure Package

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

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Itinerary

On this epic 6-Day Ring Road adventure around Iceland, see every unique side of the country. Witness exploding geysers on the Golden Circle and roaring waterfalls on the South Coast. Feel the contrast of serenity and wild adventure as you stroll on Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach and hike on Vatnajökull Glacier. Set out on a thrilling whale-watching excursion in Dalvik. In winter, explore natural ice caves and have a chance to see the Northern Lights. After these incredible six days in Iceland, you may never want to return home.

Extend Your Trip

Sometimes, you simply need another day in Iceland! If you wish to spend a few more days adventuring in Iceland, check out our 7-Day Tour Around Iceland from Reykjavik or the Ultimate 8-Day Iceland Ring Road Tour.

The 6-day Ring Road tour was awarded the best multi-day travel experience in Iceland by TourRadar, based on traveler reviews worldwide. We operate our tours in small groups to provide an authentic experience for every traveler. Our superb guides — the best in the country — go the extra mile to give you an immersive, once-in-a-lifetime adventure.  

This Iceland tour offers unforgettable experiences year-round. Here are some seasonal extras: from September to April,  you might see the Northern Lights; from October to April, explore the Crystal Ice Cave. In summer, enjoy the Arctic midnight sun and spot puffins. In September, there is sometimes a chance to see a countryside sheep round-up.

people walking on a gravel path in Thingvellir National Park

We will start the day at 8:00 a.m. by collecting all passengers from their pickup locations. Depending on your location, this can take up to 30 minutes. We will then head towards the country's interior and hit the famous tourist route called the Golden Circle. 

Our first stop will be Thingvellir National Park, recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its historical and geological importance. There, we will see the historical site where Althingi, the world’s oldest democratic parliament, was founded more than a thousand years ago.  

There is no specific parliament building here, as the people of Iceland used to hold their meetings here under the open sky. Lögberg is a rock, and it was the platform from which the law speakers would proclaim new laws with the imperious rift valley at their backs.

Thingvellir is also famous for being the gap between two tectonic plates. There are several cracks between the Eurasian and North American plates lying at the center of the national park. These two plates continue to drift apart, with the gap widening by about 0.78 in. (2 cm) each year. This movement creates the awe-inspiring geology in the area that we will explore when we walk in between the tectonic plates.

Winter View Of Strokkur Geysir In Iceland Golden Circle

Our next stop is the world-renowned Geysir Hot Spring Area. We will walk among bubbling hot springs and mud pots on the restless ground of an active geothermal area, passing by steaming fumaroles surrounded by colorful minerals. We will see the famous Geysir, from which the English word geyser was adopted, and its younger brother, Strokkur. The Great Geysir is dormant today, but Strokkur erupts every 5-8 minutes, so we will be able to see at least a few eruptions for sure! The unearthly scenery will surely inspire us to know Iceland’s geology even better.  

Then, we will move on to the majestic Gullfoss Waterfall (Golden Falls). Gullfoss was named after the golden-brown hue surrounding the cascade on sunny days. If we are lucky, a stunning rainbow will form over the canyon, providing a fantastic opportunity for photos. 

After wrapping up the Golden Circle, we’ll head south to one of Iceland’s must-see regions—the South Coast. This area is home to some of the country’s most dramatic landscapes. Every stretch of road offers something breathtaking, with scenery so striking it feels straight out of a fairytale.

seljalandsfoss falls at sunset in iceland

On our way to our accommodation, we’ll stop at two of Iceland’s most iconic waterfalls: Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss. You’ll have plenty of time to explore these stunning natural wonders. At Seljalandsfoss, you can even walk behind the cascading water for a unique view. At Skógafoss, we’ll take the stairs to the top, where you’ll be rewarded with panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.

We’ll visit the stunning Reynisfjara black sand beach, known for its dramatic black basalt columns and the iconic Reynisdrangar sea stacks. This place has been ranked among the top ten non-tropical beaches in the world. From here, you’ll also get beautiful views of the sea arches and cliffs at Dyrhólaey. In summer, puffins nest on the cliffs, adding even more charm to this already spectacular spot.

We’ll spend the night at a cozy country hotel near the village of Kirkjubæjarklaustur. If conditions are just right, this location offers a fantastic chance to witness the Northern Lights from September to April!

Day Highlights
  • Thingvellir National Park
  • Geysir Geothermal Area
  • Gullfoss Waterfall
  • Seljalandsfoss & Skogafoss Waterfalls
  • Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach
  • Northern Lights (Sept-Apr
Included
  • Guided tour in minibus
  • Visit to the highlights of Golden Circle
  • Top attractions of the South Coast
  • One-night accommodation
Accommodation
Adventure Hotel Geirland
or similar hotel.

Today is all about glaciers. We begin by passing the massive Mýrdalsjökull glacier, which hides the infamous Katla volcano beneath its ice. Then, we journey across the vast Eldhraun lava field, a landscape shaped by one of history's largest lava flows from the 1783 eruption. The moss-covered lava stretches endlessly in every direction.

Next, we enter Vatnajökull National Park, home to Europe’s largest glacier, Vatnajökull. Covering 14% of Iceland, it's the country’s biggest protected area, filled with towering ice caps, deep valleys, and contrasting green oases like Skaftafell.

Here, our expert guide will lead us on a glacier hike across one of Vatnajökull’s outlet glaciers. You’ll explore stunning ice formations, deep crevasses, and the glacier’s famous shimmering blue ice. (Part of the Adventure package.)

From October to April, we switch the hike for an incredible journey into the Crystal Ice Cave, where you’ll experience dazzling blue ice formations created by the ever-shifting glacier. Each cave is unique, making the experience truly unforgettable.

After our glacier adventure, we’ll hop back on the bus to continue the journey. Our final stop for the day is the breathtaking Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon, Iceland’s deepest lake, filled with massive floating icebergs. 

The lagoon connects to the sea, where the icebergs drift slowly toward the ocean. The waves then carry them back to shore, creating a striking scene. The sapphire-blue water contrasts with the coal-black sands, dotted with icebergs and ice chunks that shimmer like gems. This stretch of coastline is called Diamond Beach—a place so surreal it will send shivers down your spine!  

In the evening, we will rest at a comfortable accommodation in the Southeast area. Ask your guide for tips on seeing the Northern Lights at night during winter!

Day Highlights
  • Vatnajokull National Park
  • Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon
  • Diamond Beach
  • Northern Lights (Sept-Apr)
Included
  • Breakfast at the hotel
  • Glacier hike safety equipment
  • Guided glacier hike on Vatnajökull Glacier (April-Oct)
  • Visit to Crystal Ice Cave (Oct-April)
  • Visit to Jökulsarlón and the Diamond Beach
  • One-night accommodation
Accommodation
Adventure Hotel Hof
or similar

On day three, we will explore the Eastfjords of Iceland. This coastline stretches for about 75 miles (120 kilometers) along Iceland’s eastern coast, from the village of Djúpivogur in the south to Borgarfjörður Eystri in the north. 

With steep mountains plunging into deep fjords, the region feels like a well-kept secret. Small fishing villages line the rugged coastline, and wild reindeer roam the hills. It’s a place where nature takes center stage, far from the busier tourist spots.

Our first stop of the day will be Djúpivogur, a traditional fishing village with centuries-old, colorful houses that will remind us of the village's long history of trading. Djúpivogur has a population of 450 people. A picturesque, pyramid-shaped mountain nearby and a stunning coastline make the views even more interesting.  

We’ll wind through the scenic Eastfjords before heading inland to Lagarfljót, Iceland’s third-largest lake. Known for the legend of the Lagarfljótsormur, a serpent-like creature, the lake adds a touch of mystery to the beautiful landscape. While the monster’s existence remains a tale, some locals still believe it lurks beneath the surface.

Lagarfljót Lake is located near the town of Egilsstaðir, which is often considered the gateway to East Iceland. Egilsstaðir sits along the banks of the Lagarfljót River and is the largest town in the region.

Afterward, we’ll head to the Wilderness Center—one-of-a-kind in Iceland. Sitting right on the edge of the highlands, this place feels like a step back in time. You’ll stay in carefully restored old farmhouses, offering a glimpse of how life used to be for those living in Iceland’s wild and untamed frontier. The stories of the land and its people come to life here.

You’ll have free access to the museum exhibitions during your stay. When you arrive, you’ll cross an old wooden bridge to your historic accommodation. Meals are made fresh in an open kitchen, using local ingredients. And after exploring, get ready to soak like a true Viking in the hot spring bathhouse, built with stones just like the ones our ancestors used.

If the weather's right, you might also see the Northern Lights from September to April.

Day Highlights
  • The Eastfjords of Iceland
  • Djúpivogur village
  • The town of Egilsstaðir
  • Iceland’s Wilderness Center
  • Northern Lights (September-April)
Included
  • Breakfast at the hotel
  • Exploring Eastfjords of Iceland
  • Free access to Wilderness Museum
  • One-night accommodation
Accommodation
Wilderness Center
or similar

On day four, we will head toward North Iceland. After leaving Egilsstaðir behind, we will drive through a Highlands area, where the landscape is barren and extraterrestrial. 

First, we will visit Stuðlagil Canyon, one of the world’s most enchanting basalt rock formations.* You’ll see towering basalt columns that rise from the striking turquoise waters of the Jökla River.

Next, we’ll pass through the incredible geothermal area of Námaskarð, one of Iceland’s most active volcanic fields. The landscape is alive with bubbling hot springs and steaming fumaroles, set against vivid, mineral-streaked soil in shades of red, yellow, and orange. The air is thick with the distinct smell of sulfur—similar to rotten eggs—but the dramatic sights more than make up for it!

Then, we will move towards the volcanic wonderworld around Lake Mývatn. Covering an area of 14 mi2 (36.5 km2), Mývatn is the fourth largest lake in Iceland. An incredibly vibrant array of flora and fauna thrives around the lake and on its tiny islands. Myvatn is deservedly one of Iceland’s most valuable protected nature reserves.

During our visit to the region, we'll stop by the renowned Myvatn Nature Baths (optional extra), sometimes referred to as “the Blue Lagoon of the North.” Here, you can unwind in the blue geothermal water, sourced from depths of up to 8,200 feet (2,500 meters) and heated by underground volcanic activity. In addition to the bathing lagoon, you'll also find geothermal steam baths providing a 100% natural experience controlled by the weather.

Woman bathing in Myvatn natural baths

Afterward, we will go for a short walk in Dimmuborgir, “the Dark Fortress,” a charming garden of lava rock sculptures, huge rock pillars, caves, caverns, tunnels, and lava bridges. These strange lava formations are steeped in mythology. Our friendly tour guide will tell us all about Iceland’s thirteen Santas and the many trolls who live among these peculiar sculptures. 

Our final stop of the day will be at the Goðafoss Waterfall. The “waterfall of the gods” was named when Iceland switched from the Norse religion to Christianity. According to the legends, this was the place where the pagan idols were destroyed when Iceland converted to Christianity. The water cascades from a height of 39 ft. (12 m) over a length of 38 ft. (30 m) and has a unique horseshoe shape, making it highly photogenic.

After our memorable day, we'll make our way to Akureyri, the capital of North Iceland. Despite its small size, with around 19,000 residents, Akureyri is the largest city outside the capital area. Nestled in the heart of Eyjafjörður Bay, this picturesque town boasts stunning views in all directions.

We will spend the night in a hotel in the Akureyri area, where you might catch a glimpse of the Northern Lights between September and April.

*In winter, road conditions may limit access to Stuðlagil. But in such case, we'll have plenty of other thrilling activities lined up for you. Your safety and satisfaction are our main concerns. Thank you for your understanding.

Day Highlights
  • Stuðlagil Canyon
  • Lake Mývatn
  • Myvatn Nature Baths (optional extra)
  • Námaskarð Geothermal Area
  • Dimmuborgir Rock Formations
  • Goðafoss Waterfall
  • Northern Lights (September-April)
Included
  • Breakfast at the hotel
  • Guided visit to the highlights of the North
  • One-night accommodation
Accommodation
Berjaya Akureyri Hotel
or similar

On day five, we set off on a whale-watching boat tour from Dalvík (part of the Adventure package). This small fishing village, offers nearly a 100% chance of spotting whales year-round in Eyjafjörður, known as the “island fjord.”

Humpbacks, minke whales, and dolphins are regular visitors here, often swimming right up to the boat. It’s a once-in-a-lifetime chance to see these incredible animals up close. In summer, keep an eye out for puffins and other seabirds that make this area even more special.

Iceland Whale Watching In Dalvik

After our time in Dalvík, we’ll continue to the picturesque village of Siglufjörður, the northernmost town in Iceland. Famous for its vibrant harbor, it was once the bustling center of Iceland’s herring industry during the early 1900s, full of life and activity. Today, it’s a peaceful village with a rich history and rustic charm.

As we make our way around Tröllaskagi, or the Troll Peninsula, you’ll get some of the best coastal views in Iceland, along with a peek at the country’s top ski spots. 

We’ll also cut through active farming regions where you’ll see Iceland’s rural side up close. Before settling in for the night, we’ll swing by Skagafjörður—a fjord dotted with islands and filled with stories waiting to be uncovered.

Finally, we will head to Laugarbakki, where you will spend the evening at the hotel. In winter evenings, if the conditions are right, you can go out of the hotel to view the dazzling Northern Lights, painting the sky with vibrant hues of green, purple, and blue (September-April).

Day Highlights
  • Whale Watching from Dalvík
  • Siglufjörður 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 sixth day, we will explore West Iceland, which the Lonely Planet voted as one of the best holiday destinations. We will spend most of our time in the Borgarfjörður area, which has many spectacular natural sights and is famed worldwide for its majestic beauty. 

Our day will begin with a short hike up to a highly scenic volcano crater, Grábrók. The red volcanic soil is covered with green moss patches, making it look like a vibrant painting. On a clear day, there are fabulous views over the lava field and the area. 

Next, we’ll visit the historic site of Reykholt, once home to the famous Icelandic writer and politician, Snorri Sturluson. Snorri, who lived here in the 12th and 13th centuries, is best known for his detailed accounts of Nordic mythology. We’ll see Snorralaug, “Snorri’s pool,” a geothermal hot pool dating back to the 10th century.

Our next stop is the bubbling Deildartunguhver, Europe’s most powerful hot spring. It pumps out 50 gallons (180 liters) of water per second at a scorching 200°F (97°C). The hot water here supplies towns and farms within a 40- to 45-mile (60 to 70-kilometer) radius, making it an essential resource for the area.

Next, we’ll visit the unique Hraunfossar, or “Lava Falls,” where countless streams flow directly from the ground—a rare phenomenon for a waterfall. The water emerges over a stretch of about 0.55 miles (900 meters), creating a stunning and beloved natural sight for all who visit.

Hraunfossar waterfall in Iceland view from above

Just a short walk from Hraunfossar is Barnafoss, or “Children’s Waterfall.” According to legend, children tragically fell into its striking cyan waters, and your guide will share more of the story as we explore the area.

Next, get ready to meet the charming Icelandic horses at Sturlureykir horse farm! You’ll have the chance to pet, interact with, and learn all about these incredible creatures that have been an integral part of Icelandic culture for centuries.

On our way back to Reykjavík, we’ll take the scenic route around Hvalfjörður (Whale Fjord). We plan to arrive in the capital between 5 and 6 p.m., dropping you off at your original pick-up location.

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
  • Drop-off in Reykjavík or Borgarnes
  • We will collect you from your hotel or a nearby meeting point in Reykjavik. You can find available pickup locations here. Pickup begins at 8 a.m. and can last up to 30 minutes, depending on your location. We apologize if you have a short wait.
  • The Mývatn Nature Baths are not part of the tour packages and must be booked separately as an optional add-on.

  • Solo travelers wishing for a private room should select the single room supplement. Otherwise, they may be paired with another solo traveler of the same gender.

  • Depending on weather conditions, we may need to alter which glaciers or glacier outlets are visited on this tour. Possible glacier outlets include Svínafellsjökull, Falljökull, and Sólheimajökull, each offering stunning scenery.

  • From October to April, the glacier hike is replaced with an exploration of the Crystal Ice Cave.

  • Hotels along the tour route may vary during your trip.

  • You can rent sturdy hiking boots, a waterproof jacket, and pants when booking your tour. These items must be reserved in advance, as they are not available for rent on-site.

Reviews

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Based on 18 reviews

6-Day Ring Road Tour Around Iceland

FAQ

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.

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