Arrival in Iceland – Welcome to Reykjavík

Reykjavik - Upon arriving at Keflavík International Airport, proceed independently to your accommodation in Reykjavík, the lively capital of Iceland. Settle into your hotel, unwind after your journey, and begin to immerse yourself in the distinctive atmosphere of Iceland before embarking on your thrilling 7-day Ring Road adventure.

Journey to Akureyri – Exploring North Iceland’s Charm

Borgarfjörður - The guide will direct you to the bus, and the tour will commence at 09:00. Travel northwards through the Hvalfjörður tunnel to Borgarnes. Near Borgarnes, there is a stop at Grábrók Volcano, a volcanic fissure that erupted three thousand years ago. From there, continue over the Holtavörðuheiði highland plateau to reach the flourishing farming region of northwest Iceland.

Skagafjordur - Drive past Skagafjörður, a deep fjord and valley, renowned as one of Iceland’s most prosperous agricultural areas. It is known for extensive dairy and sheep farming, as well as the horse breeding for which the district is famous. Skagafjörður is the only county in Iceland where horses outnumber people.

Glaumbaer Museum - Visit the Glaumbær Museum, a historic turf farm that provides insight into traditional Icelandic life. The museum features well-preserved turf houses from the 18th and 19th centuries, illustrating how Icelanders lived in harmony with their challenging environment. Visitors can explore the old farmhouse, which has been meticulously restored and furnished with period-appropriate items, offering an authentic experience of Icelandic rural life. The museum also provides insights into Icelandic history and culture, making it a captivating destination for those interested in the country’s heritage.

Akureyri - Continue over the Öxnadalsheidi highland plateau to Akureyri, the capital of north Iceland.

Overnight stay in Akureyri.

Lake Mývatn – Volcanic Wonders and Waterfalls

Lake Myvatn - Focus on the stunning area around Lake Mývatn, a shallow lake in a region of active volcanism with significant biological activity.

Godafoss - Starting from Akureyri, the drive to Mývatn takes about an hour and a half. Along the way, stop at Goðafoss, the “Waterfall of the Gods,” a breathtaking cascade with historical importance.

Dimmuborgir Lava Formations - Explore the unique volcanic formations at Dimmuborgir, known as the “Dark Castles.” These formations were created by volcanic activity thousands of years ago, making Dimmuborgir a popular spot for hikers and nature enthusiasts.

Skutustadir - Take a stroll around the pseudocraters at Skútustaðagígar. These formations, created by steam explosions when hot lava flowed over wetlands, resemble volcanic craters but are not true volcanoes.

Grjotagja Cave - Another intriguing site is Grjótagjá, a small lava cave with a thermal spring inside. The cave is a popular spot for travelers seeking a unique and tranquil experience. The warm, clear water in the cave was once a favored bathing spot, although it’s less accessible now due to temperature fluctuations caused by volcanic activity. Grjótagjá also gained fame as a filming location for the popular TV series Game of Thrones, making it a must-visit for both nature lovers and fans of the show.

Námaskarð - Stop by the geothermal area at Námaskarð, where bubbling mud pools and steaming fumaroles create an otherworldly landscape.

Dettifoss Waterfall - On the way to Egilsstaðir in eastern Iceland, stop by Dettifoss Waterfall, reputed to be the second most powerful waterfall in Europe after the Rhine Falls. Then cross the Möðrudalsöræfi highland desert through Jökuldalur to Egilsstaðir.

The East Fjords – Scenic Villages and Wild Reindeer

East Region - From Egilsstaðir, drive through the Eastfjords to Höfn í Hornafirði. This part of the country features many narrow fjords surrounded by steep cliffs. In most of the fjords, there are small and charming fishing villages. Visitors often overlook this part of the country despite its stunning scenery, remote fishing villages, sparkling lakes, and traditional farms. The region boasts the sunniest weather in the country during summer, but in winter, it is often mystically shrouded in dense fog. The area is known for its wildlife, especially as the only part of the country where herds of wild reindeer live. Initially, locals brought them to Iceland for farming, but the industry was never profitable, and the experiment was abandoned. The reindeer remain and have roamed free since.

Hofn - Overnight stay in the town of Höfn í Hornafirði

Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon, Diamond Beach & The South Coast

Jokulsarlon - Depart Höfn to drive along Iceland’s southeast coast. The first stop is at the Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon, where an amphibian boat tour will be taken. The Lagoon developed around 60 years ago with a continuous process of calving and falling icebergs from the glacier tongue Breiðamerkurjökull. These icebergs come in two shades: milky white and bright blue, an interplay of light and ice crystals.

Diamond Beach Jokulsarlon - Below the Lagoon, the sparkling shards and orbs of ice wash up on the shore of Breiðamerkursandur, earning it the name Diamond Beach in English.

Vatnajokull National Park - Continue through Vatnajökull National Park, passing Hvannadalshnúkur, Iceland’s highest peak (2,119m), before traveling over the vast lava fields of Eldhraun and the black glacial plains of Mýrdalssandur.

Reynisfjara Beach - Pass by the village of Vík and visit the black sand beach at Reynisfjara, known for its colony of puffins, unusual geological formations, and powerful tidal waves. Be cautious not to step too close as the waves can be dangerous.

Dyrholaey - From Reynisfjara, view the impressive promontory Dyrhólaey, where the sea has carved an enormous hole through the rock.

Skogafoss - Next, stop at Skógafoss, a majestic waterfall located on the Skógá River in Iceland, known for its impressive 60-meter drop and constant mist that creates vibrant rainbows on sunny days. Surrounded by lush greenery and steep cliffs, it stands as one of Iceland’s most iconic and photogenic natural landmarks.

Seljalandsfoss - At Seljalandsfoss Waterfall, you can walk behind the waterfall, but dress appropriately, as the water mist behind the waterfall can make you wet.

The Golden Circle & Optional Blue Lagoon Experience

Gullfoss Waterfall - On this day, tour the renowned Golden Circle. Start with a visit to the majestic Gullfoss, often referred to as the “Golden Falls,” a breathtaking two-tiered waterfall situated in the canyon of the Hvítá River in Iceland. Renowned for its sheer power and beauty, Gullfoss plunges dramatically into a rugged gorge, creating a mesmerizing spectacle that attracts visitors from around the world.

Geysir - Then head to the Geysir hot spring area, home to the famous Geysir hot spring from which all other geysers take their name. Geysir is no longer active, but another hot spring, Strokkur, erupts every few minutes.

Thingvellir National Park - Next, visit the National Park at Þingvellir, where the North American and European tectonic plates drift apart and create a rift valley. The ancient Icelandic parliament, Alþingi, was established at Þingvellir in 930. Now residing in Reykjavík, it is one of the oldest surviving parliaments in the world. Þingvellir is, consequently, a sacred place for Icelanders.

Reykjavik - From Þingvellir, return to Reykjavík for the final night. Guests who have not booked the optional Blue Lagoon visit will be driven directly to their hotel, while the rest continue on to enjoy their excursion.

Farewell Iceland – Departure Day

Keflavik - After breakfast, enjoy some free time (depending on your flight time). Make your own way from your hotel in Reykjavik to Keflavik airport.

• Amphibian Boat Tour on Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon
• Free Wi-Fi on board
• Visit to Glaumbær Folk Museum
• Breakfast at the hotels
• Accommodation with private bathroom for 6 nights
• Small group tour in spacious vehicle with no luggage restrictions
• Expert guidance from an English-speaking local guide

• Optional Extras (see different price options in booking process)
• Airport transfers
• Meals other than breakfast at hotels

Embark on a classic 7-day guided small group tour along Iceland’s iconic Ring Road, highlighting the nation’s most celebrated natural wonders, cultural landmarks, and distinctive geological features. Travel in comfort with expert local guides who provide insights into Iceland’s history, folklore, and landscapes, while staying in highly-rated hotels throughout each region.

Explore majestic waterfalls, sparkling glaciers, black sand beaches, steaming geothermal areas, quaint fishing villages, and the birdlife of Lake Mývatn. Be amazed by Europe’s largest glacier, sail among icebergs at Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon, and visit Gullfoss Waterfall and the erupting hot spring at Geysir.

Delight in visits to museums, wander through coastal towns, and capture Iceland’s stunning volcanic scenery. With comfortable transport, knowledgeable guides, and thoughtfully selected accommodations, this tour provides the perfect way to experience Iceland’s top attractions and rich culture in just one week.

If you cancel at least 6 full day(s) before the scheduled departure time, you will receive a full refund.
If you cancel between 2 and 6 day(s) before the scheduled departure time, you will receive a 50% refund.
If you cancel within 2 day(s) of the scheduled departure, you will receive a 0% refund.