Let’s kick off our adventure with a visit to Iceland’s most iconic waterfall, Gullfoss. This majestic waterfall plunges an impressive 32 meters in two breathtaking stages, making it a must-see attraction on the famous Golden Circle route.

Next on our itinerary is Þingvellir National Park, a place of both historical significance and geological wonder. Here, you’ll witness the remarkable Almannagjá ravine, where the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates slowly drift apart. Designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2004, Þingvellir will captivate you with its unique landscapes and rich history.

Our journey continues to the Geysir geothermal area, home to the mesmerizing Strokkur geyser. Watch in awe as Strokkur erupts, shooting scalding water high into the sky every 5 to 10 minutes, creating a truly spectacular sight.

We’ll then head to Reynisfjara, Iceland’s renowned black sand beach, known for its dramatic beauty. While the scenery here is breathtaking, it’s important to exercise caution due to the unpredictable “sneaker waves” that can pose a danger. With proper care, you’ll have the opportunity to experience one of Iceland’s most stunning natural wonders.

Day 1 – The Golden Circle & South Coast

We’ll kick off our day with a pick-up from your accommodation in Reykjavík, or a nearby meeting point. Our first stop is the renowned Golden Circle, starting with Þingvellir National Park. This historic site holds a special place in Icelandic culture, as it was here in 930 CE/AD that the world’s oldest parliament was established. Marvel at the geological wonders as you explore the Silfra fissure, nestled between the Eurasian and North American tectonic plates.

Next, we’ll visit the geothermally active hot spring area at Geysir, where Strokkur puts on a spectacular display every few minutes. Then, we’ll head to Gullfoss waterfall, where you can feel the raw power of nature as the falls cascade through the rugged canyon.

Continuing our journey along the picturesque South Coast, we’ll stop at Seljalandsfoss waterfall, offering a unique opportunity to walk behind the cascading waters. Skógafoss waterfall is our next destination, where the water crashes over ancient sea cliffs, often creating mesmerizing rainbows in the mist.

Our final stop of the day is Reynisfjara black sand beach, home to the striking Reynisdrangar peaks and captivating basalt column cave formations.

After a full day of exploration, we’ll head to a cozy country hotel near Kirkjubaerklaustur, a charming village on the South Coast. If you’re traveling between September and April, our guide will share tips for spotting the Northern Lights in the area.

Day 2 – Vík – Skaftafell – Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon

After a satisfying breakfast and checking out of our hotel, we embark on the next leg of our journey along the stunning south coast towards Skaftafell and Vatnajökull National Park. This vast wilderness, covering 13,600 km2, is home to some of Iceland’s most iconic natural wonders, including Vatnajökull glacier, Hvannadalsnúkur (Iceland’s highest peak), Skaftafell, and the breathtaking Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon.

Our first stop is Skaftafell, where we’ll have the thrilling opportunity to embark on a glacier hike led by one of our experienced guides. With crampons and all necessary glacier gear, you’ll explore one of Vatnajökull’s outlet glaciers, encountering crevasses, moulins, and stunning panoramic views along the way. Our guides are passionate about glaciers and love answering any questions you may have.

During the winter months, from October to April, we trade the glacier hike for an equally exhilarating adventure exploring Vatnajökull’s crystal ice caves. These natural wonders form each winter as meltwater freezes into intricate cave systems within the glacier.

After our glacier experience, we’ll continue to the enchanting Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon. As we approach, you’ll be mesmerized by the sight of towering icebergs drifting gracefully in the lake, having calved from the nearby Breiðamerkurjökull glacier. Keep an eye out for playful seals frolicking in the water, adding to the magical atmosphere.

From there, we’ll head to Diamond Beach, a nearby black sand beach adorned with glistening icebergs washed ashore by the tide. Some liken the sparkling ice formations to diamonds or clear quartz crystals, creating a scene straight out of a movie. In fact, this stunning location has served as the backdrop for several films, including James Bond movies.

Day 3 – East Fjords – Djúpivogur – Wilderness Center

Leaving the captivating landscapes of Vatnajökull National Park behind, our journey continues through the East Fjords towards Egilsstaðir. The roads wind along the coast, offering breathtaking views of mountains and sea. Our first stop is Djúpivogur, a quaint fishing village where black sandy beaches meet the crashing waves of the North Atlantic. Here, you’ll find a vibrant birdlife, with the area serving as a nesting ground for numerous Icelandic bird species during the summer months. With just over 1100 residents, Djúpivogur boasts a welcoming community deeply committed to environmental conservation.

Next, we’ll visit an interactive historical center nestled between Vatnajökull, Europe’s largest glacier, and Lake Lagarfljót. The Wilderness Center offers a glimpse into life in Iceland’s rugged highlands through engaging exhibits and outdoor activities like hiking, biking, and horse riding. Admission to the museum is free, allowing you to immerse yourself in the region’s history and culture. Accommodation is provided in charming historic buildings, where you can savor meals made with local ingredients and unwind in the hot spring spa after a day of exploration.

Our overnight stay is in the picturesque area of Egilsstaðir, where, during the winter months, you may have the chance to catch a glimpse of the enchanting Northern Lights dancing across the sky.

Day 4 – Stuðlagil Canyon – Lake Mývatn – Goðafoss – Akureyri

Filled with stunning North Iceland highlights, our journey takes us through wild and remote landscapes as we depart from Egilsstaðir. Our first stop is the mesmerizing Stuðlagil Canyon, renowned for its enchanting basalt rock formations. Continuing our exploration, we venture to Dimmuborgir, the “dark cities” of lava formations that tower above us like fairytale giants. Dimmuborgir’s origins trace back to the collapse of a giant lava tube, resulting in striking natural sculptures, including one resembling a church known as “Kirkjan.”

As we traverse around picturesque Lake Mývatn en route to Akureyri, we pause at the breathtaking Goðafoss Waterfall, aptly named the “Waterfall of the Gods.” Its horseshoe shape and symbolic history from the year 1000 AD, when pagan idols were cast into its waters, add to its allure.

Throughout our journey, the landscape unfolds with bubbling mud pots and unique lava formations, showcasing the natural wonders of the region. A notable highlight is the Mývatn Nature Baths, often dubbed the “Blue Lagoon of the North.” Here, travelers have the option to indulge in a relaxing dip in the authentic hot springs, drawing from depths of about 2500 meters. These mineral-rich waters, teeming with tiny geothermal creatures, offer a rejuvenating experience amidst Iceland’s northern nature.

Day 5 – Whale watching from Dalvík – Siglufjörður -Tröllaskagi – Laugarbakki

We kick off the day with a scenic drive through Akureyri, the vibrant capital of North Iceland. If time permits, we might even make a short stop along the way. As we head towards the picturesque fishing town of Dalvík, keep your eyes peeled for breathtaking views of Eyjafjörður, Iceland’s longest fjord.

In Dalvík, we board a whale-watching boat to embark on an adventure across Eyjafjörður Fjord, where we’ll search for whales, dolphins, and other fascinating marine life. It’s not uncommon to spot humpback whales, dolphins, and porpoises during our excursion, and if we’re lucky, we might even catch a glimpse of seals or blue whales!

Continuing our journey, we drive along a scenic route nestled between towering mountains and the stunning fjord, winding our way around the Tröllaskagi peninsula. Along the route, we pass through charming villages and hamlets before reaching Siglufjörður. Once known as the herring fishing capital of the Atlantic, Siglufjörður exudes a rich history and charm, offering a glimpse into its bustling past during the herring boom of the early twentieth century.

While the herring may no longer swarm the waters as they once did, the legacy and atmosphere of that era are beautifully preserved in Siglufjörður and its surrounding villages. As we journey through the picturesque farmlands, dotted with fields of Icelandic horses, we eventually arrive at Laugarbakki, where we’ll settle into our accommodation for the night. Keep an eye out for the Northern Lights with the guidance of our expert guide, available from September to April.

Day 6 – Day Borgarfjörður – Reykholt – Hraunfossar – Borgarnes

Today, we’re exploring the captivating area around Borgarfjörður in West Iceland, a destination lauded by Lonely Planet in 2016. Our journey begins with a visit to Grábrók, a volcanic crater where we’ll embark on a short hike to the summit. From here, on a clear day, you’ll be treated to breathtaking views spanning across lava fields and expansive landscapes.

Our next destination offers a stark contrast as we venture to Deildartunguhver hot spring, Europe’s most powerful hot spring. This natural marvel supplies much of the area’s hot water and provides a fascinating glimpse into Iceland’s geothermal wonders. Continuing our exploration, we’ll marvel at the Hraunfossar waterfall, where icy water emerges from lava formations, creating a mesmerizing cascade of streams. Nearby, we’ll discover Barnafoss, or “Children’s Falls,” and learn the legend behind its name from our knowledgeable guide.

Our final stop of the day brings us to Reykholt, a place steeped in Icelandic history, particularly during medieval times. Here, we’ll visit Snorralaug, a historic hot spring pool named after Snorri Sturluson, a renowned scholar, lawyer, and saga writer from the 12th and early 13th centuries. Standing beside the pool where Snorri is said to have bathed, we’ll reflect on the rich tapestry of Icelandic history intertwined with this remarkable location.

Day 7 – Borgarnes – Snaefellsnes Peninsula – Reykjavík

Join our expert Snæfellsnes guide for a full-day adventure on the magical Snæfellsnes Peninsula, starting with an 8 a.m. pickup. As we journey through breathtaking countryside with stunning mountain and coastal views, we’ll make our first stop at the charming seaside village of Arnarstapi. Here, you’ll have the opportunity to explore the natural Miðgjá rock arch and the historic Búðakirkja church dating back to the 19th century.

For lunch, we’ll pause in the village of Hellnar (food and drink not included) before continuing into Snæfellsnes National Park. Among moss-covered lava landscapes, we’ll marvel at the panoramic views of Snæfellsjökull Glacier, famously featured in Jules Verne’s novel “Journey to the Center of the Earth.”

Our journey then takes us to the stunning black pebble beach at Djúpalónssandur, where you can explore the coastline and test your strength with the traditional ‘lifting stones’ once used by fishermen.

As we make our way back to Reykjavík, we’ll pass through legendary scenery and stop at Kirkjufell, often hailed as Iceland’s most photographed mountain. Here, you can capture your own memorable moments amidst the breathtaking landscape.

• Warm layers
• Waterproof top layer
• Headwear
• Gloves
• Scarves
• Hiking boots
• Camera
• Swimsuit
• Towel
• Strong hiking boots are essential

• Cancellations for all-day excursions can be made by email up to 24 hours before departure, and the entire money will be returned. Any cancellations made less than 24 hours before the scheduled departure time are not subject to refund.
• If the operator cancels the trip due to severe weather, hazardous driving conditions, or other reasons, we will help you rebook a different day or book alternate activities if feasible, or we’ll give you a full refund.