6-Day Around Iceland Small-Group Tour from Reykjavik

Embark on a 6-day guided tour around Iceland’s legendary Ring Road and discover the island’s most breathtaking natural wonders in a small group setting. Explore top highlights like the Golden Circle, South Coast waterfalls, Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon, East Fjords, and the geothermal marvels of Lake Mývatn and the North of Iceland. Enjoy thrilling activities such as glacier hiking on Vatnajökull, whale watching in Eyjafjörður, and scenic hikes through dramatic landscapes. With expert local guides, comfortable transport, and personalized attention, this adventure is the perfect way to experience Iceland’s diverse beauty. Ideal for nature lovers and adventure seekers, this is one of the best multi-day tours from Reykjavik.

Itinerary

1. 1

   Day 1 — Golden Circle and South Coast of Iceland

   • Discover Þingvellir National Park, Iceland’s only UNESCO World Heritage Site and a place of deep historical and geological significance. This is where Iceland’s first parliament, the Althing, was established over 1,000 years ago, and where you can see the dramatic rift between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates.
   • Experience the stunning Gullfoss Waterfall, a must-see highlight and one of the three iconic stops on Iceland’s famous Golden Circle route. Marvel at the powerful cascades as they plunge into a deep canyon, creating a breathtaking natural spectacle.
   • Visit the geothermal area to see the famous Geysir erupt, shooting jets of hot water and steam into the air every few minutes. Explore the bubbling fumaroles nearby and capture stunning photos of this natural spectacle.
   • Experience the stunning Seljalandsfoss waterfall, famous for the unique opportunity to walk behind its cascading waters. This iconic waterfall offers a one-of-a-kind perspective that sets it apart from many others in Iceland.
   • Discover Skógafoss, one of Iceland’s largest and most breathtaking waterfalls. With a stunning width of 25 meters (82 feet) and a dramatic drop of 60 meters (197 feet), it’s a must-see natural wonder.

   Overnight stay at Hotel Geirland, or similar.

2. 2

   Day 2 — South Coast of Iceland

   • Explore Reynisfjara, Iceland’s famous black sand beach known for its striking basalt columns and powerful Atlantic waves. This dramatic coastline offers breathtaking views and unique geological formations.
   • You’ll stop at the charming coastal village of Vík, famous for its beautiful black sand beaches and dramatic cliffs. Take in the stunning ocean views and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of this small Icelandic town.
   • You’ll pass by the impressive Mýrdalsjökull glacier, home to the infamous and unpredictable Katla volcano hidden beneath its icy surface. This glacier is one of Iceland’s most powerful natural landmarks.
   • You’ll enter Skaftafell National Park, where you’ll meet your guide and begin the day’s exciting activity. This stunning park is the perfect starting point for your adventure.
   • You’ll embark on a three-hour glacier hike led by an expert guide on an outlet glacier of Vatnajökull, Europe’s largest glacier. From November to March, this hike is replaced by a magical tour inside a stunning natural ice cave within the glacier.
   • Next, visit the famous Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon, a stunning and magical lagoon filled with floating icebergs. This unique location offers breathtaking views of the glacier’s icy wonders.
   • From Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon, take a stroll to the nearby Diamond Beach. This striking black sand beach is scattered with sparkling blue and white icebergs that have washed ashore, creating a breathtaking natural display.
   • This night, you’ll stay at Hotel Hof. Enjoy a comfortable and relaxing evening in this cozy accommodation.

   Accommodation will be at Hotel Hof, or something similar. Ideal location to chase the Northern Lights in winter.

3. 3

   Day 3 — East Fjords of Iceland

   • You’ll visit Djúpivogur, a charming traditional fishing village known for its peaceful atmosphere. Don’t miss the famous outdoor sculpture, Eggin í Gleðivík, also called The Eggs of Merry Bay.
   • You’ll hike to Hengifoss, Iceland’s second highest waterfall at 128 meters. Along the trail, enjoy stunning views of a gorge that showcases colorful layers formed by ancient volcanic eruptions.
   • You’ll visit Litlanesfoss waterfall, a striking cascade beautifully framed by towering hexagonal basalt columns. This natural spectacle highlights Iceland’s unique volcanic geology.
   • You’ll spend the night in Egilsstaðir, the largest town in East Iceland. This charming town offers a comfortable base for exploring the surrounding natural beauty.
   • Wilderness Center: Just 40 minutes from Egilsstaðir, enjoy an overnight stay immersed in nature. Experience the wilderness, explore the museum, and relax in the free hot pots!

   Accommodation at Wilderness Center, or similar. Perfect for chasing the Northern Lights during winter nights.

4. 4

   Day 4 — Stuðlagil - Mývatn - Nature Bath - Goðafoss - Akureyri

   • Starting from Egilsstaðir, you’ll travel through the beautiful Mörðudalur valley. This scenic route offers stunning landscapes that showcase Iceland’s natural charm and rugged terrain.
   • You’ll stop at Dettifoss, Europe’s most powerful waterfall, where the immense volume of water creates a truly awe-inspiring sight. Prepare to be amazed by the raw power and thunderous roar of this natural wonder.
   • You will explore the mystical landscapes surrounding Lake Mývatn, known for its unique volcanic formations and rich birdlife. This area offers stunning views and fascinating natural wonders that showcase Iceland’s diverse geology.
   • Next, you’ll visit the steaming, lunar-like landscape of the Námaskarð geothermal area. Here, you’ll witness boiling hot springs, colorful bubbling mud pots, and powerful steaming fumaroles that highlight Iceland’s geothermal activity.
   • You will visit the impressive Hverfjall crater, a striking volcanic formation known for its nearly perfect circular shape. Explore the rim and take in panoramic views of the surrounding volcanic landscape.
   • You’ll also see the amazing Dimmuborgir lava formations, often called the Dark Castles. These dramatic volcanic rock structures create an otherworldly landscape that looks like a natural fortress.
   • The wide, crescent-shaped Goðafoss waterfall is your final stop of the day. After taking in this stunning sight, you'll continue to Eyjafjörður, a beautiful fjord surrounded by towering mountains, where you'll spend the night.
   • The basalt column canyon rises dramatically above a turquoise glacial river, creating one of Iceland’s most breathtaking natural sights. Nestled in the upper part of Jökuldalur Valley in East Iceland, this scenic valley is also known for its numerous sheep farms.
   • Unwind in the soothing geothermal waters of Mývatn Nature Baths, renowned for their milky blue color rich in skin-beneficial minerals and silica. Set in a stunning natural area near Lake Mývatn, these baths offer a serene and rejuvenating experience surrounded by Iceland’s beautiful landscape. Until May 27th 2026, Forest Lagoon replaces the Mývatn Nature Baths due to renovations.
   • At the end of the day, we’ll stay at a charming hotel in Akureyri. You'll also have the opportunity to discover this wonderful fishing town and its unique character. Between September and April, step out from your warm guesthouse after dark to catch a glimpse of the mesmerizing Northern Lights dancing overhead.

   Accommodation at Berjaya Akureyri Hotel or similar.

5. 5

   Day 5 — Whale watching in Eyjafjörður Fjord - Siglufjörður - Tröllaskagi - Borgarnes

   • We'll start the day from Iceland's "Capital of the North". This charming town is known for its vibrant culture and beautiful surroundings.
   • Enjoy breathtaking views of the fjord surrounded by majestic, mountain-covered landscapes throughout the day. This stunning scenery showcases Iceland’s natural beauty at every turn. Here, we'll embark on an unforgettable whale-watching adventure! With a remarkable 98% chance of sightings, you'll likely encounter magnificent marine life such as humpback whales, porpoises, dolphins, and other fascinating ocean creatures. The tour typically lasts for around 3 hours so plenty of time to admire your favourite marine mammals.
   • Next, we’ll drive to Siglufjörður, a charming fishing village known for its rich history. In the 20th century, it became the herring fishing capital of the Atlantic.
   • Your journey around Tröllaskagi, also known as the Troll Peninsula, will treat you to some of Iceland’s most stunning ocean views and renowned skiing spots. The peninsula is dotted with small villages, offering a unique glimpse into life in Iceland’s remote coastal communities.
   • You'll spend the night at a cozy hotel located in the Laugarbakki region. On winter nights, step outside and venture into the darkness to witness the breathtaking Northern Lights as they dance across the sky in vibrant shades of green and violet.

   Accommodation will be at Hotel Laugarbakki, or similar. Ideal for Northern Lights hunt in winter months.

6. 6

   Day 6 — Borgarfjörður - Reykholt - Hraunfossar - Hvalfjörður - Reykjavik

   • You’ll explore Borgarfjörður, an area named one of the best destinations by Lonely Planet in 2016. The day starts with a short hike up to Grábrók, a stunning volcanic crater, followed by visits to many other incredible sights in the region.
   • You’ll visit the breathtaking Hraunfossar waterfall, where icy-cold water flows gently out of the lava fields. It’s a unique and stunning natural sight that highlights Iceland’s volcanic beauty.
   • The final stop is Reykholt, a site rich in Iceland’s medieval history. Here, you’ll see Snorralaug, a historic hot spring pool named after Snorri Sturluson, the renowned 12th/13th-century scholar, lawyer, historian, and saga writer.
   • On your way back to Reykjavík, you’ll drive along the stunning Hvalfjörður, also known as Whale Fjord. This scenic route offers breathtaking views of the fjord’s dramatic landscapes and tranquil waters.
   • Deildartunguhver, Europe’s most powerful hot spring, is not only a stunning natural wonder but also a crucial energy source for the Borgarfjörður region. Its abundant geothermal water supplies heating for homes and businesses, showcasing Iceland’s innovative use of geothermal power in everyday life.

What's included

• ✓Glacier Hike (mid-April to October)
• ✓Stop at Myvatn Nature Baths (Forest Lagoon until May 27th, 2026), optional activity
• ✓Ice Cave Tour (October to mid-April)
• ✓On-board WiFi
• ✓Whale Watching in Eyjafjörður Fjord
• ✓Professional guide
• ✓National Park fees
• ✓Glacier Hiking adventure
• ✓Accommodation for 5 nights
• ✓Reykjavik pick-up and drop off
• ✓Breakfast
• ✓Live commentary on board

Not included

• ✗Meals
• ✗Gratuities
• ✗Entrance fee to the nature baths (optional at an extra charge ~40EUR)
• ✗Rental waterproof gear and hiking shoes are available as optional extras ( ~28 EUR per item)

What to expect

• Public transportation options are available nearby
• Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
• Minimum age: 8 years old
• Please note that if you are a solo traveler you will be paired in a twin room with another participant of the same gender
• If you are a solo traveler and wish to have your own room then you can opt for a single room upgrade directly with the operator at an extra charge
• The operator reserves the right to alter the itinerary due to weather and/or other conditions outside its control.
• Pick up is offered from authorized pick up points in Reykjavik. Contact the operator for further details.
• What to bring: Warm outdoor clothing, waterproof clothing, headgear, gloves and hiking boots.
• Waterproof clothing and hiking boots can also be rented from the operator for a small fee if you let them know in an advance.

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