Highlights
- Northern Lights search on each night of your tour (if forecast is favorable).
- Golden Circle
- Þingvellir National Park
- Gullfoss waterfall
- Geysir geothermal area
- West Iceland
- Hraunfossar
- Barnafossar
- Snorralaug
- Reykholt
- Hvalfjörður
- Deildartunguhver
- Borgarfjörður
- Snaefellsnes Peninsula
- Kirkjufell
- Arnarstapi
- Djúpalónssandur black sand beach
- Búðir
- Búðakirkja Church
- Saxhóll Crater
- Ólafsvík village
- Ytri Tunga Seal Colony
- Snæfellsjökull glacier (sightings)
Activities
About Tour
Be prepared to capture everything that Iceland has to offer on this 5-day excursion. This amazing tour covers Iceland’s most famous destinations along with the hidden gems that are still untouched by the tourists. From experiencing the Viking era at Borgarfjörður, visiting the majestic Hraunfossar, and Barnafoss, exploring Snæfellsnes Peninsula, West of Iceland to witnessing the famous Kirkjufell mountain. This tour will also include a visit to the lava cave, spectacular Golden Circle with its main attractions including Geysir geothermal area, Gullfoss waterfall, and Thingvellir National Park.
Covering each aspect of Iceland, you will visit Skógafoss and Seljalandsfoss, these are breathtaking waterfalls along the south coast. For adventure freaks, a glacier hike in Skaftafell waits for you; you will be guided by certified trainers and experts. On this 5-day tour minibus tour, you will explore Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon, the Diamond Beach, the crystal blue ice cave, and many more exciting places. So, let’s find out in detail where you would be going and what else is there to see.
Included
- Pick up and drop off in Reykjavik.
- 4 nights accommodation in comfortable country hotels with private bathroom.
- Breakfast each morning at your hotel.
- 5 Days guided sightseeing to all the best locations at the Golden Circle, South Coast & Snaefellsnes.
- English speaking professional guide.
- Glacier Hike.
- Natural Ice Cave.
- Super Jeep Tour
- Certified glacier guide.
- Glacier equipment; helmet, harness, crampons and ice axe.
- Northern Lights hunting every night if the weather allows.
- Small groups
- Wi-Fi and Icelandic music on board the minibus.
What to bring
- Dress according to weather
- Waterproof outdoor clothing
- Warm clothes
- Warm socks
- Gloves & Headwear
- Hiking boots
- Swimsuit and towel
- Camera (optional)
Good to know
- Order or availability of attractions may change due to road or weather conditions.
- The luggage limit for this tour is one suitcase of 24 inches per person. If you have any extra luggage, you can store it in our office for 1,000 ISK. You can add it to your booking in the booking engine.
- If you are traveling on your own, you will receive a single room. Reservations for 2 people will be allocated a double room. For bookings of 3 or more, triple rooms will automatically be allocated. If these arrangements do not meet your requirements, please contact us.
- Remember to choose the Single Supplement Fee in the booking engine if you are traveling alone.
- This tour includes a pick up from Reykjavik. You can see the designated pick up locations in the drop down menu when booking.
- Pick up is not available from Keflavik airport or outside of the greater capital area.
- You will have plenty of chances for bathroom breaks and to buy snacks on the way.
- Age limit for the glacier part of the tour is 8 years.
- The Ice cave that will be visited on this tour is 100% natural and always changing. Since the ice caves are ever changing we will visit new ice caves each year in different areas of the glacier. The photos that you see on our website are from recent tours, but note that the ice caves might have changed due to the dynamic nature of these formations.
- The Northern Lights are a natural random phenomenon and cannot be guaranteed on the tour. However, we will do everything that we can to be able to see them. For example, the hotels are in prime locations to maximize the chances of seeing the northern lights.
- Lunch & dinner is not included in the tour. We will stop on restaurants where you can buy lunch & dinner.
- It is recommended to bring some snacks and drinks for the day time adventures. Some light chips and soda should do the trick.
- This tour is perfect for groups, single travelers and families.
- You will be traveling on a minibus on this tour. The minibus includes free Wi-Fi. We will introduce you to Icelandic music aboard the minibus.
- We recommend you wear proper warm clothing, gloves, hat, scarves, and hiking shoes.
- If you don’t have hiking shoes, you can rent them at the time of booking.
- In the rare case that we need to cancel the tour because of extreme weather, road conditions or other factors, we will assist you with rebooking to another date. If that does not work out for you, you will receive a full refund for the tour.
- In the rare case that we need to cancel the tour because of extreme weather, road conditions or other factors, we will assist you with rebooking to another date. If that does not work out for you, you will receive a full refund for the tour.
- Minimum age is 8 years old for glacier hike and ice caving. If children under those ages are on the tour, then an adult needs to stay with them while others do these activities.
- This tour is perfect for groups, single travelers and families.
- You will be traveling on a minibus on this tour. The minibus includes free Wi-Fi. We will introduce you to Icelandic music aboard the minibus.
- We recommend you wear proper warm clothing, gloves, hat, scarves, and hiking shoes.
- If you don’t have hiking shoes, you can rent them in the booking engine.
Itinerary
Here is the detailed breakup of the 5-day expedition, each destination is mentioned that will be covered on the respective days.
Day 1 - Visiting Waterfalls, Exploring Borgarfjörður Valley and Viking Heritage
On the very first day, you will be picked up from your designated stop at the scheduled time in the morning. The tour will commence by visiting West Iceland. You will come across majestic waterfalls, massive lava fields, caves, beaches, glaciers and not to forget the historical locations too, you will have a glimpse of the Viking era too.
The first destination, you along with your tour-mates will head towards mount Esja, which is approximately 10 km from the main capital city Reykjavík. Mount Esja is a volcanic mountain range and not a single mountain. Mount Esja is best known for the excellent hiking trails. Next up, the snow-capped mountains and massive open fields wait for you at Hvalfjörður fjords, which is approximately 5 km wide and 30 km long fjord.
Borgarfjörður - Deildartunguhver & Reykholt
Now, moving on to the next destination, you will head towards Borgarfjörður, near Borgarnes town. It is believed that Viking sailors settled at this place after they left their homeland. A historical aspect to unfold as you visit Borgarfjörður. From there onwards, you will visit your next destination, Reykholtsdalur valley, where Europe’s most powerful hot spring – Deildartunguhver is located. Deildartunguhver hot spring has the highest flow-rate, while the water is piped to Borgarnes and Akranes. The next visit will be to the Reykholt village, which is also a part of Borgarfjörður. This place used to be the home of famous Icelandic historian, politician, lawmaker, and poet Snorri Sturluson; he is known for the Old Norse language and various other invaluable records. Here you will see Snorralaug hot spring.
Hraunfossar & Barnafoss waterfalls
Now, after having a glimpse of the history, next up are the beautiful waterfalls – Barnafoss and Hraunfossar, located in Borgarfjörður. These two waterfalls are extremely beautiful and are the hidden gems of Iceland. The Icelandic name Hraunfossar translates to “Lava waterfalls”, while Barnafoss translates to “Children´s waterfall”. Hraunfossar has infinite creeks and water cascades that create a visually attractive site, while Barnafoss with its bright blue stream, amidst the great lava plain, looks like a live painting.
And with these beautiful waterfalls, Day-1 comes to an end. You will be headed towards your accommodation. Have some rest and build up the enthusiasm for Day-2.
Day 2 - Snæfellsnes Peninsula:
Gear up and get excited for the Day-2 to explore one of the most amazing places and hidden destinations of Iceland. The tour will continue on the second day and you will visit the Snæfellsnes Peninsula. The dramatic landscapes with volcanoes and glaciers of the Snæfellsnes Peninsula await you.
Snæfellsjokull Glacier
The undeniable beauty of Snæfellsjökull glacier can’t be explained enough; it looks majestic over the Peninsula. This glacier has been an important matter of subject in the “Journey to the Centre of the Earth” novel, by Jules Verne.
Gerðuberg Cliffs
Now, moving on after a healthy breakfast at your hotel, you and your mates will head towards Gerðuberg Cliff from Snæfellsnes Peninsula. Gerðuberg Cliff is a massive basalt column wall. The geometrical symmetry looks like someone has carved the wall. The symmetrical hexagonal basalt columns are spread across a kilometer. So, don’t forget to capture this massive naturally carved wall.
Ytri Tunga Seal Colony
Now, heading towards our next destination, Ytri-Tunga, which is a beautiful Icelandic beach but unlike other beaches, where you will see the black sand, here the sand is golden. Ytri-Tunga is not just known for its golden sand but is also an excellent place to spot the seals. If you love getting close to the marine life, this place is perfect for you. The seal colony is situated behind farmhouses on the southern shore of Snæfellsnes Peninsula. It is one of the best places in Iceland to watch seals closely. But being a responsible tourist, it is recommended to not disturb the seals and let them enjoy themselves in their natural habitat. Although the seals are friendly and would climb up on the rocks to see you.
Búðir & Búdakirkja: Visiting “The Black Church”
Now, moving towards the next destination on the south coast of the peninsula to a village that has a single hotel accompanied by a black church, which is named Búðakirkja or often known as “the Black Church of Búdir”. It sits on the massive lava rock field. Built-in 1703, Búdakirkja was reconstructed in 1987. The beautiful landscape surrounding the church looks spectacular and mesmerizing. Búðakirkja is owned by the National Museum of Iceland and has a bell, chalice, and historic graveyard since its establishment. Under the clear sky, this church looks like a beautiful painting.
Arnarstapi Fishing Village, Hellnar and The Stone Arch
How about visiting a small fishing village? Yes, the next would be Arnarstapi fishing village, also known as Stapi, with interesting natural surroundings including the lava pillars and the basalt ravines. Arnarstapi in the past used to be an extremely busy commercial center and fishing port. You can see the landing spots and varied other things that reflect its historical aspect. You might also spot fulmars, kittiwakes, and razorbills with many other birds. Apart from this, you can also make your way to the coast to see the beautiful Gatklettur arch rock with Atlantic Ocean waves crushing over it!
Lóndrangar
Lóndrangar is an interesting place with unique geological shape. The Basalt Cliffs would be your next destination on this tour around Snæfellsnes Peninsula. The rock pinnacles were formed due to multiple erosions and are approximately 75-meter-high. The pinnacles are home to puffins, northern fulmars, and other sea birds.
Djúpalónssandur Black Lava Pearl Beach
Next, the journey continues and will head towards Djúpalónssandur, which is a sandy beach at the foot of Snæfellsjökull. This place is characterized by stunning landforms, high-dramatic cliffs, and mysterious rocks. You will see beautiful pebbles that cover the beach and, these pebbles are known as Djúpalónsperlur that translates to “pearls of the deep lagoon”.
Vatnshellir Lava Cave
The thought of visiting an 8000-year-old lava cave is sure to give you goosebumps. Isn’t it? Yes, our next destination is Vatnshellir lava cave, which is going to be an unforgettable experience of your lifetime. So, be prepared to get through a lava cave and follow the path that was created nearly 8,000 years ago.
Kirkjufell Mountain & Kirkjufellfoss Waterfall
Moving towards the northern area of the Peninsula, Kirkjufell mountain is all set to welcome you. Our next destination is the Kirkjufell mountain. This iconic mountain with its unique shape has gained popularity and is the most photographed mountain across Iceland. The isolated position and the unique shape will surely want you to capture it from every possible angle. Kirkjufell is also a part of the most popular series Game of Thrones.
With the last destination, Day-2 comes to an end and you will be dropped off at your respective place. And yes, don’t forget to look for the Northern Lights, if the sky is clear, you will witness the amazing bands of colors fluttering over the sky.
Day 3 - The Golden Circle
As Day-3 arrives, get yourself prepared for witnessing some of the majestic, and spectacular places in Iceland that are famous around the world too! From waterfalls to geothermal areas, Day-3 will include a visit to the stunning Golden Circle.
Geysir Geothermal
The first destination on The Golden Circle tour is the Geysir geothermal area, which is home to infinite colorful erupting hot springs and also two geysers. The most famous geysers “Geysir” and “Strokkur” are present in this area. Geysir erupts occasionally while the other one – Strokkur erupts every 5 minutes (approximately up to 40 meters).
Gullfoss Waterfall
The next to visit is the Gullfoss Waterfall, fed by the glacier Langjökull, which is Iceland’s second biggest glacier. The beautiful “Golden Falls” is the most iconic waterfalls, located in the Hvítá river’s canyon, in southwest Iceland. This is another majestic waterfall of Iceland that gently falls into a canyon, further creating a perfect setup for rafting too. There is a spot right below the fall (canyon), which is known as the base for rafting. A perfect place for adventure enthusiasts! So, enjoy getting drenched in the water, and also you might see a lovely rainbow over the fall.
Thingvellir National Park
Now going further to the next destination, you will visit Thingvellir, which is a famous place and is known for the North American and the Eurasian tectonic plates that are moving apart. This national park and a historic place is all surrounded by vast fractures, fissures like the huge Almannagjá fault, rocky cliffs, and also the old stone shelters’ ruins. You will have an opportunity to witness the massive cliffs spread across a huge area with fissures and of course the tectonic plates that are separating away. Thingvellir translates to “Parliament Plains”, and the reason behind this is that at this place the natives founded their parliament, and at that time, annual meetings used to take place. Thus, Thingvellir becomes an extremely important place when it comes to Icelandic national history.
And here comes the end of Day 3. After experiencing the most beautiful and magical places, you along with your troupe will head back towards the pavilion. Enjoy your dinner and have some to re-energize and get back to start Day-4 with even more excitement.
Day 4 – Exploring the South Coast and A Stunning Glacier Hike
There is no doubt Iceland is full of waterfalls and on your trip, you are sure to cross infinite small and big waterfalls.
Walk-Behind the Seljalandsfoss Waterfall
So, why not start Day-4 by visiting one of the most beautiful waterfalls of Iceland. Yes, the first destination of the day would be Seljalandsfoss that is a beautiful waterfall and allows you to walk behind it. You can walk behind the waterfall too. Isn’t that great? The magnificent view is sure to leave you stunned. Don’t forget to carry raincoats and your warm clothes too. You might get drenched in water and also the weather is unpredictable, come prepared with everything.
Skógafoss Waterfall
Now, moving towards the next destination, you will visit another most beautiful and scenic waterfall – Skógafoss. No doubt every waterfall in Iceland is amazing, but this one looks extremely majestic and equally stunning. With a drop of approximately 62 meters, this spectacular waterfall at the Skógá River is one of the biggest waterfalls of Iceland. And, what’s even better? You can hike up to the top of this waterfall. There is a staircase, so make your way up to the top.
Skaftafell Glacier Hike
Lined up next would be an extremely exciting adventure activity! You and your tour-mates will hike a glacier, which is spawning from another one of the largest and famous glaciers – Vatnajökull. You will be thoroughly guided about the safety measures to be taken while hiking, by the experts and trainers, having rich experience of glacier hiking. Fret not about the safety equipment – you will get be guided about the glacier equipment like helmets, crampons, harnesses, and ice axes too. This session about safety might take 20-30 minutes as this is a very important step to move further with the group. This is a beautiful and breathtaking area that has also been a part of famous films and TV shows. Skaftafell area can be seen in James Bond, Game of Thrones, Interstellar, and many others too.
Northern Lights
With this, Day-4 will come to an end and you will be dropped off at your respective places. And, yes if the sky seems clear, you will also witness nature’s extreme phenomenon – the Northern Lights. So, keep an eye on that as well!
Day 5 - The South Coast and Exploring Blue Ice Cave
Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon
Starting the Day-5 on a beautiful note by visiting Jökulsárlón, an extremely deep and large glacier water lagoon that is fed by Breiðamerkurjökull. Jökulsárlón glacial lake is known for the huge chunks of ice that are floating and flipping the lake. The icebergs are there in the lake throughout the year and thus, you can visit them any time. Not just icebergs, but you can spot seals too!
The Diamond Beach
These icebergs that are present in the Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon flows to the Atlantic Ocean, from where they crash to the shore owing to the extreme winds and high tides. This is on the other side of the road. The black sand beach has infinite smaller ice blocks that look like real diamonds under the sun, sparkling brightly. This is why the beach is called the Diamond Beach. These massive to small icebergs on the black sand creates a beautiful contrast.
Crystal Blue Ice Caves
Now, with that, you will head towards your next destination – Ice caves. Yes, you and your friends will be taken on a super jeep tour so that you can explore the ice cave. Your guide will help you know everything about the caves and you can bombard your questions too! After exploring the caves, the journey will continue to the next destination for the day.
Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach
The last but definitely the most dramatic place of all – Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach. You will surely have a live theatrical experience where Atlantic coastline with its exceptionally massive waves hit the basalt pillars with all their force. Yes, you need to be extremely careful too. Not only the dramatic and strong waves, but this place is also a heaven for bird lovers. You can spot razorbills, puffins, and many other species over the cliffs, during summertime.
Additional Details of the Tour
- For ice caving and glacier hike, the minimum age limit is 8 years old, and in case, on tour, if you have children under the specified age, then during these activities, an adult needs to stay with them and wait until others are back.
- A certified glacier guide will help you and guide you about the safety before the start of the glacier hike.
- Iceland’s weather is extremely unpredictable, thus, be prepared and come along with an extra set of warm clothes. Don’t forget to carry your essential gear including sturdy hiking boots, a camera, waterproof clothing, swimsuits, and towels.
FAQ
You can choose a pick up in Reykjavik or the capital area. Find the designated pick up locations in the drop down menu when booking.
If you don’t know your pick up point for your tour yet, you can let us know later. Note that you need to send us the pick up location for your tour at least 24 hours prior to the departure of the tour. It would also be great if you can give us your phone number so we can call you if we can not find you at the pick up location.
Due to the regulations of the city of Reykjavik, tour companies are only allowed to stop at certain designated bus stop locations in the city center to pick up passengers. It is stated on your voucher if we will pick you up directly from your hotel or from the designated bus stop locations. Find the closest designated pick up location using the map on www.busstop.is.
Pick up starts at the scheduled departure time on your voucher ticket. Note that the pick up can take up to 30 minutes. Please be at your listed location so our guide can easily find you.
No, this tour does not include a pick up from Keflavik Airport.
If you are arriving in Iceland early morning on the day of your tour, it would be best to take a taxi or bus from the airport to BSI bus station. Choose your pick up for the tour at BSI bus station and we will pick you up there.
A multi day tour is a tour that includes guided sightseeing and activities for more than one day. Accommodation is usually included in multi day tours.
The multi day tours are ideal if you would like to make the most of your time in Iceland.
- You do not have to worry about finding accommodation that will fit to your day full of sightseeing and activities.
- Most multi day tours are operated in small groups with personal guidance.
- The tours will drive further into the countryside and give you the opportunity to explore locations that you would not be able to do in the day tours from Reykjavik.
You will be staying in a comfort hotel with private bedroom and private bathroom on this tour.
Yes, breakfast after each night of accommodation spent during the multiday tour is included.
You will be traveling in a minibus.
Yes, the single supplement fee is mandatory for solo travelers. This is to ensure your private room in the accommodation. There is no way to skip on the single supplement fee if you are a solo traveler.
Since the northern lights are a natural phenomenon, we can not guarantee the sightings of northern lights on the tour. We will do everything that we can to make your chances of seeing the northern lights as high as possible. This includes staying in hotels that are located in prime areas to spot the northern lights. If the forecast is good, you will have high chances of seeing the northern lights outside the hotel.
In the rare case that we will have to cancel the tour because of extreme weather, road conditions or other factors, we will assist you with rebooking to another date or provide a full refund.
The tour can be cancelled up to 48 hours from the departure time with 85% of the total price refunded.
However, we would kindly as you to cancel the tour as soon as you know that you won’t be able to participate in it. The multi day tours require a lot of bookings on our half that needs to be cancelled in time (accommodation, activities, meals and more).
Please send us an email to info@icelandtravelguide.is as soon as you know that you have to cancel the tour.
All cancellations requested less than 48 hours from the departure time are non refundable.
If you have more luggage, you can store your extra luggage in our office for a small extra price of ISK 1.000. Add it as an extra at the time of booking. This fee is non refundable upon payment.
Yes, and you definitely should! The setting on the tour is full of amazing, scenic views.
You will also find a tablet in the bus with information about the northern lights and how to photograph them.
For winter tours in Iceland, wear warm clothing as first layer and waterproof outdoor jacket and pants as a second layer. Hiking boots with high ankle protection is ideal for the glacier hike and ice cave experience. You will get crampons to put on your boots before you go to the glacier. If you do not have hiking boots, you have to rent them at the time of booking. A hat and gloves are also ideal for the glacier tours.
Yes, you need sturdy hiking boots for the glacier hike. They have to have hard sole and be tight around the ankle. If you don’t have hiking boots, you can rent them in all sizes when booking the tour. It is also possible to rent the shoes at the glacier hiking location.
The glacier hike is considered to be safe for anyone in good physical condition. You have to be able to walk for about an hour up and down on slopes and uneven surface.
We offer all safety equipment necessary and you will always be hiking with a professional and certified glacier guide.
This is always a personal choice and depends on your physical health at the time of the glacier hike. We have had pregnant women on this glacier hike but not all pregnancies are the same. We recommend that you read the description of the tour to get a good idea and ask your doctor about it.
Do you have a question?
We would love to hear from you
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