8 Day Summer Ring Road Tour in Iceland for Small Groups
Explore Iceland Tour
This eight-day journey is ideal for people exploring Iceland’s stunning natural wonders between Reykjavík, the capital, and Akureyri, the “Capital in the North.” It covers the must-see Golden Circle route and all of its amazing locations. You will also witness the magnificent Gullfoss waterfall, the Geysir geothermal area, and Thingvellir National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Highlights
- Visit the distinctive black sand beach, Reynisfjara, and Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon
- Explore the East Fjords and the much-discussed South Coast
- See Lake Mývatn and its distinctive surroundings in the North
- Tour the lava pillars of Dimmuborgir and Akureyri, the northern capital
- Travel south to West Iceland and the Snaefellsnes Peninsula
- Look for the magnificent auroras in the starry night sky
- Hauganes whale watching tour and ice cave activity
- 7 nights accommodation with breakfast
Accommodation
You will stay in various three-star hotels throughout the tour.
Room assignments
Individual travelers will be required to pay for a single supplement fee and will be assigned a single room. When two persons book a reservation, a double room will be assigned. When three or more people book, triple rooms will be automatically assigned.
A party of eight, for instance, will be given two triple rooms and one double room. In case these arrangements fail to fulfill your needs, do get in touch with them and send an inquiry.
Program
The tour includes visits to several natural attractions and landmarks, such as Thingvellir National Park, Geysir geothermal area, Gullfoss waterfall, Reynisfjara black sand beach, Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon, Diamond Beach, the East Fjords, Lake Mývatn, and the Snæfellsnes Peninsula.
Hiking is not included on all days, only on those explicitly mentioned. Specific hikes are included on the glacier hike (Day 2) and possibly around other locations, depending on the participants' preferences and the guide's recommendations.
Participants can expect to deal with ice / snow primarily on the glacier hike and during visits to the ice cave. These activities will occur on Day 2. Other days might involve some snow or icy conditions depending on the specific locations and weather conditions at the time of the tour.
Itinerary
Day 1 | The Golden Circle
Your tour will start with the very popular Golden Circle. You’ll visit all the must-see locations of this popular route: Thingvellir National Park, Geysir geothermal area, and Gullfoss waterfall. Your hotel will be located in the South Coast, right outside of the Golden Circle area.
- Tour duration: 10 hours
Highlights:
- Thingvellir National Park
- Geysir and Haukadalur Geothermal Area
- Gullfoss - The Golden Waterfall
Thingvellir National Park
Thingvellir is Iceland’s most important historical site, a place where Viking chieftains declared laws and made alliances for nearly a thousand years. It was also home to the Althingi, which is thought to be the world’s first democratic parliament. Thingvellir is now protected as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Geysir and Haukadalur Geothermal Area
The next stop will be the Haukadalur Geothermal area, where you’ll find Geysir, the original hot-water spout after which all other geysers around the world are named. Strokkur sits nearby, a reliable “old faithful” spout that sends cascades of superheated water up to 30 meters into the sky every six or seven minutes in a dazzling display.
Just remember to stand upwind to avoid a shower! There are lots of hissing hotpots and bubbling streams to see there too.
Gullfoss - The Golden Waterfall
The Golden Circle is also the home of Iceland’s most famous waterfall, Gullfoss. “The Golden Waterfall” is a roaring double-drop waterfall, with millions of glacial gallons continuously cascading into a deep ravine. Sheets of spray hang in the air and on sunlit days, sparkling rainbows make Gullfoss an unforgettable sight.
Powered by meltwater from the nearby Langjokull Glacier, it’s possible to see Gullfoss from several viewing platforms at varying heights.
- Accommodation: 3-star hotel in Hvolsvollur
Day 2 | South Coast and Katla Ice Cave
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Iceland’s south coast. Witness the powerful Seljalandsfoss and Gljúfrabúi waterfalls, and take in the stunning view of Skógafoss waterfall from the top of the wooden stairs.
See the effects of climate change at the Eyjafjallajökull glacier view, which famously erupted in 2010, and explore the world-famous black sand beach of Reynisfjara with its unique basalt column cave. Don’t miss out on the picturesque Vik village, which offers stunning views of Reynifjara’s basalt stacks.
This tour also includes a three-hour enthralling visit to the breathtaking Katla Ice Cave, which will leave you with lasting memories. Stay the night at the Vik neighborhood, which is close to South.
- Tour duration: 10 hours
Highlights:
- Seljalandsfoss Waterfall
- Skógafoss Waterfall
- Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach
- Katla Ice Cave
Seljalandsfoss Waterfall
You’ll have a unique opportunity to walk directly behind the cascading water, a thrilling experience that promises to leave you refreshed and invigorated. Be prepared for some splashing, so bring your raincoat and sturdy boots for this memorable adventure.
Skógafoss Waterfall
This is a must-see attraction in South Iceland. Feel the sheer power of this cascading wonder as you stand in its misty embrace. Explore the surrounding area, including the Skógar Folk Museum, where an impressive collection of turf huts and regional artifacts awaits, providing a glimpse into Iceland’s rich cultural history.
Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach
This is a striking black lava beach framed by dramatic rock formations and bird cliffs. There, the crashing waves meet the volcanic sands, creating an ethereal atmosphere. Keep an eye out for the fascinating birdlife that calls this coastline home.
Katla Ice Cave Activity
The friendly local guides will take you on a thrilling super jeep ride through the mountains, where you’ll witness the distinctively green mountains and a variety of breathtaking sights, tones, and textures. Your guide will share fascinating insights about the cave’s formation and history, while you capture the bizarre shapes and crystal ice with your camera.
Glacier Hike
By this time, you will reach the highlights of the tour, the glacier hike. Iceland is well-known for its glaciers. Did you know that glaciers cover about 10% of the total area of Iceland?
On this tour, you will also take part in a glacier hike (approximately one and a half hours long), with a guide and all the necessary safety equipment provided.
A glacier hike, as its name suggests, is a professionally performed activity on which careful glacial routes are selected and thereafter hiked by a small group of people led by a certified guide.
Note: If glacier hike will not be done on this day, it will be moved to the next day.
- Accommodation: 3-star hotel in Vik
Day 3 | Glacier Lagoon and Diamond Beach
Join on a captivating journey through some of Iceland’s most awe-inspiring landscapes and natural wonders. The adventure will begin with a stop at Reynisfjara black sand beach, where a short walk along the shoreline will bring you to the unique and breathtaking basalt-column cave.
You will also see the magnificent Reynisdrangar peaks, rising majestically just off the coast.
- Tour duration: 10 hours
Highlights:
- Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon
- Amphibian Boat Tour
- Diamond Beach
Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon
Continuing with the theme of ice, you will move on to the Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon, one of Iceland’s most famous ice lagoons, known for being featured in James Bond and other movies.
Feast your eyes on the jaw-droppingly beautiful iceberg-filled lagoon and visit the fabulous Diamond Beach. This coal-black beach glitters with shimmering blue and white icebergs washed ashore by the tide, transporting you to a mystical ice realm with magical landscapes.
Amphibian Boat Tour
You will sail around massive icebergs in the stunning Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon throughout the adventure. You can sample the 1,000-year-old ice on the boat, and if you’re lucky, you could even spot some seals.
An English-speaking guide will provide an explanation of the geology and facts of the lagoon during the thirty to forty-minute journey. Upon request, other languages might be provided.
Diamond Beach
At this point, you will have come to the highlight of your South Coast adventure - the Diamond Beach and the Glacier Lagoon at Jokulsarlon. This beach is constantly being shaped by the wind and icebergs, with all of the colorful little pieces of ice slowly melting away into black sand, creating mesmerizing shapes.
The Diamond Beach gets its name from the diamonds-like glittering glints on this black sand Atlantic beach. The eye-catching slivers and chunks of ice of all shapes and sizes will astound you and offer fantastic photo opportunities. It is even the perfect location to pop up the question.
- Accommodation: 3-star hotel in Hofn
Day 4 | The Eastfjords
You will explore Iceland’s breathtaking East Fjords on this day. As you traverse the narrow roads nestled between the mountains and the ocean, you’ll witness the remote and rugged beauty of the Hvalnes Peninsula.
- Tour duration: 10 hours
Highlights:
- Hallormsstadaskógur
- Lake Lagarfljót
- Horseback riding (optional activity)
- Vök Baths (optional activity)
Hallormsstadaskógur
Hallormsstadur is Iceland’s largest forest, conveniently situated just a short drive from Egilstadir. Featuring numerous hiking trails, picnic spots and camping sites, it makes an excellent place for outdoor fun with children or those wanting an enjoyable picnic or a camping trip with family and friends!
Lake Lagarfljót
Lagarfljot is an entrancing lake located a short drive from Egilstadir. Legend has it that an unknown monster lurks below its waters. Visitors may take a boat tour to explore or hike to nearby waterfalls and hot springs for an immersive experience.
- Accommodation: 3-star hotel in Egilsstadir
Day 5 | Akureyri
Embark on a private adventure to one of Iceland’s best-kept secrets: Stuðlagil Canyon and its surrounding areas.
- Tour duration: 10 hours
Highlights:
- Stuðlagil Canyon
- Námaskarð Geothermal Area
- Dettifoss Waterfalls
- Lake Myvatn
Stuðlagil Canyon
One of the most popular destinations in East Iceland. The canyon is located in Efri-Jökuldalur in Egilsstaðir and boasts one of the country’s largest and most beautiful basalt formations.
The best view of the canyon is on the east side of Jökulsá, and you will need to walk for about 25 to 35 minutes to get there. But don’t worry, as the hike will not be very long, and it will be worth it to see the stunning basalt columns up close.
Námaskarð Geothermal Area
This is where the Earth’s raw power is on full display. Immerse yourself in a surreal landscape adorned with bubbling mud pools and steaming hot springs. The air there is thick with the scent of sulfur, a testament to the fiery energy that will be lying beneath your feet. It’s a sensory adventure like no other, where you’ll feel the pulse of the Earth itself.
Dettifoss Waterfalls
Dettifoss is the most powerful waterfall in Europe. This spectacular spectacle attracts hundreds of tourists every day. Milky glacial water falls from more than 40 meters, crashing into the colossal Dettifoss canyon, fed by Vatnajökull. You’ll also see Selfoss, a gentler waterfall near Akureyri.
Lake Myvatn
Mývatn is one of Iceland’s largest lakes, home to thousands of migrating birds in the summer. You’ll enjoy fantastic views of lava fields and volcanic craters as far as the eye can see.
- Accommodation: 3-star hotel in Akureyri
Day 6 | North Iceland
Get ready for an adventurous day in North Iceland! You’ll start with a short stop in the charming capital of the North, Akureyri, surrounded by mountains and overlooking the mesmerizing Eyjafjörður Fjord.
- Tour duration: 10 hours
Highlights:
- Dimmuborgir
- Godafoss Waterfalls
- Hauganes whale watching
Dimmuborgir
Take a walkover to Dimmuborgir (Dark Cities), where you can go among the extraordinary lava formations and jagged volcanic rocks. Some say that trolls were there!
Godafoss Waterfalls
You will end the tour's sixth day with a visit to Godafoss, the “Waterfall of the Gods." It is where Iceland’s religious leaders threw away their pagan idols and committed to Christianity.
Hauganes whale watching
The tour includes a whale-watching excursion from Hauganes harbor. The boats that will be used are traditional, spacious, and comfortable oak fishing boats. The likelihood of spotting whales during the tour is high. During the summer of 2021, the success rate was 99% for all the tours.
- Accommodation: 3-star hotel in Borgarnes
Day 7 | Snaefellsnes Peninsula
Embrace the wonders of the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, often dubbed as “the peninsula of the snowy mountain.” This striking landform stretches out from Iceland’s west coast, akin to an extended arm ending in a dramatic fist. It’s a condensed version of Iceland’s majesty: rugged mountains, quaint fishing villages, and striking coastlines.
- Tour duration: 10 hours
Highlights:
- Ytri Tunga
- Djúpalónssandur Beach
- Búðir Church
- Arnarstapi
- Kirkjufell
Ytri Tunga
Ytri-Tunga, close to the farm of the same name, has golden sand and is framed by a gentler landscape. There is even a seal colony there, and often, but especially in summer, the seals go up onto the rocks. What a photo opportunity!
Djúpalónssandur Beach
The incredibly beautiful beach, and the atmospheric surroundings, cannot fail to leave you very impressed. When you stand on Djúpalónsperlur, the smooth black andesite will pebble, and when you look back up across the fine black sand, you will feel like you are in a natural amphitheater.
The surrounding cliffs "embrace" the beach and rise to the headland, where a footpath leads to Dritvík, a short walk away. In fine weather, views of the pristine glacier are glorious.
The place lends itself to drama and trials of strength, or trials of survival. Try out the four lifting stones that the fishermen of the past used to demonstrate their physical prowess. Plus, the wreckage of the British trawler at Dritvík serves to remind visitors that some paid the ultimate price for their courage in entering these treacherous waters.
Búðir Church
Búðakirkja is a charming black wooden church set in one of the most picturesque landscapes ever. Not surprisingly, it is a very popular wedding venue. Visit the church and follow the pathways around the area, and you will come to another of Iceland’s rare golden beaches and the gorgeous Hótel Búðir.
Arnarstapi
On your way in, at the top of the village above the cove, you cannot miss the towering monument to the legendary half-troll / half-man, Bárðar of the Snæfellsás Saga. You will find restaurants, some with interesting local photographs and information.
To get the best of Arnarstapi, you will have to explore the coastal paths and go down to the beautiful, steep-sided little cove, with its boat jetty. The unique cliff formations include Gatklettur, and the ocean passes through the archway at high tide. Iceland Highlights Travel Agency recommends walking to Hellnar if you can spare 40 minutes each way.
Kirkjufell
This mountain and the nearby Kirkjufellsfoss Waterfall are often cited to be the most photographed sites in Iceland. The mountain is shaped like a peak of whipped cream, and the falls will remind you that a waterfall doesn’t have to be high to be stunning - no wonder this location has appeared in Game of Thrones.
- Accommodation: 3-star hotel in Borgarnes
Day 8 | West Iceland
This day will be the your last tour day. You’ll be heading to the West of Iceland to explore stunning attractions such as Deildartunguhver, Europe’s most powerful hot spring, Hraunfossar and Barnafossar waterfalls, and Reykholt, which holds a significant historical heritage. You’ll arrive in Reykjavík in the evening.
- Tour duration: 10 hours
Highlights:
- Deildartunguhver Geothermal Area
- Hraunfossar and Barnafoss Waterfall
- Reykholt
Deildartunguhver Geothermal Area
The strongest hot spring in Europe is called Deildartunguhver. 180 L/sec of hot water at 100°C is produced by it. This hot spring provides the majority of the water used for central heating in the cities of Borgarnes and Akranes.
The longest hot water pipeline in Iceland, spanning 64 kilometers, delivers hot water to Akranes at a temperature of between 78 and 80 degrees. You would have already soaked in the hot water from this potent spring if you had taken a shower anywhere within 65 miles of the spring!
Hraunfossar and Barnafoss Waterfall
After absorbing the tranquil beauty of Hraunfossar, you’ll visit Barnafoss, also known as Children’s Falls. The waterfall is linked with an eerie story of two children falling in the waterfall, but your guide will tell you all the haunting details!
Reykholt
Snorralaug (Snorri’s Pool) is a small hot spring found just a few minutes away in Reykholt, where local people have bathed since the 12th century. This pool was first mentioned in the medieval writings of Snorri Sturluson, a famous Icelandic poet and chieftain, who used to live and bathe there too. Snorralaug is now a protected archaeological site.
After this activity, you will meet your private guide again, and then you will be taken back to Reykjavik.
Included excursions
- Ice cave activity
- Glacier hike
- Jökulsárlón amphibian boat ride
Location
The much-discussed South Coast is where you get to visit the distinctive black sand beach, Reynisfjara, and Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon.
Once you’ve explored the East Fjords, the North’s Lake Mývatn and its distinctive surroundings await. After touring the lava pillars of Dimmuborgir, you will continue your journey to Akureyri, the northern capital.
From there, you will travel south to West Iceland and the Snaefellsnes Peninsula, where you can explore some undiscovered attractions and places like Kirkjufell Mountain.
The evenings will be ideal for looking for the magnificent auroras in the starry night sky.
Food
Breakfast is included in the package.
The following meals are included:
- Breakfast
The following dietary requirement(s) are served and/or catered for:
- Regular (typically includes meat and fish)
Things to do (optional)
The program includes several optional activities that will be available at an additional cost: Horseback riding on Day 4 and Vök Baths on Day 4.
Horseback riding (optional activity)
Participants are going to be taught the art of riding Icelandic horses by a riding instructor! They will set off on horseback to explore the breathtaking scenery of the Icelandic wilderness, with each one receiving their own horse.
These are the only breed of horse in the world with five gaits, including the four-beat lateral ambling gait known as the “tölt,” proving that Icelandic horses are exceptional. There is no other horse breed in the world that has this particular gait.
Icelandic horses are also renowned for their hardiness and sure-footedness, which enable them to endure severe weather conditions and navigate challenging terrain. They are also excellent companions for both work and play because of their intellect and amiable dispositions.
Vök Baths (optional activity)
To end the day, you can soak in the geothermal Vök Baths, nestled amidst the serene scenery of Lake Urriðavatn. These modern, floating infinity pools are a unique experience not to be missed. Please note that enjoying the hot baths is an optional extra, and you’ll need to book it during the booking process at your own expense.
What's included
- 8-day English guided small-group tour
- Ice cave activity
- Glacier hike
- Jökulsárlón amphibian boat ride
- Wi-Fi on board
- Transportation via minibus
- 7 nights of accommodation with breakfast
What's not included
- Flights
- Lunch and dinner
- Horseback riding tour
- Vök baths
- Vidgelmir lava cave
- Airport transfer
How to get there
Recommended Airports
Keflavík International Airport
119 km
Transfer not provided
Pickup from the location of your choice will take place between 08:00 and 08:30. Please send an inquiry to know the specific locations in Reykjavík where you can be picked up from. Pickup isn’t offered from Keflavik Airport or from locations outside of the main city.
Cancellation Policy
- A reservation requires a deposit of 14% of the total price.
- The deposit is non-refundable, if the booking is cancelled.
- The rest of the payment should be paid 30 days before arrival.
For this organizer you can guarantee your booking through Tripaneer.com. All major credit cards supported.