Find the best tour companies in Iceland and experience the country in ways only a local guide can offer. Booking organized excursions saves time and takes the guesswork out of planning a trip to one of the most popular destinations in the world.
Iceland is known for its natural wonders, breathtaking landscapes, rich history, and unique culture. However, many of the country’s top attractions are in remote areas that are difficult to access without the help of local experts. That’s why many visitors book holiday packages instead of taking a DIY approach to planning their trip.
There’s no shortage of tour operators in Iceland ready to make your trip memorable, but finding the one that’s right for you can be challenging. So we’ve compiled a list of the top companies offering everything from relaxing getaways to thrilling outdoor adventures.
Key Takeaways
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Choosing the right Iceland tour company matters — With Iceland’s remote attractions, selecting a reliable tour operator is essential for a smooth and enjoyable experience.
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Iceland has a diverse range of tour options — Tour companies offer various experiences, including glacier hikes, whale watching, helicopter flights, and photography tours.
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Tour company rankings are based on customer experiences — This article ranks 25 of the best Iceland tour operators based on reviews, ratings, and service quality.
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Seasonal considerations impact tour choices — The best time to visit Iceland depends on your interests.
How to Choose an Iceland Tour Company That’s Right for You
Choosing a tour operator to handle your travel planning can make or break your Icelandic holiday. That’s why it’s essential to research the tour company and its products before finalizing your booking.
What makes a tour provider the perfect match for your travel needs? Here are five factors to consider when evaluating Iceland tour operators.
Reputation
You can learn a lot about the level of service a tour company provides by looking at their reviews. The best ones have an online presence, including social media and Google Reviews. Look for five-star ratings and read comments to get a better sense of how the company operates.
Experience
It’s best to hire a tour company with extensive experience providing the type of trip you desire. Agencies with many years in the travel industry have perfected their process of running excursions, curating the top accommodation selection, and setting their clients up for the best vacation possible.
Pricing and Inclusions
Budgeting is a vital part of every traveler’s vacation planning. Before booking, compare similar tours for the best price.
Tour prices in Iceland vary depending on the duration, type of activity, and the number of participants. The best tour operators in Iceland provide detailed information about the experience they offer, so you know exactly what you're getting for the price.
Tour Vehicles
Tour providers in Iceland use different types of vehicles for their packages depending on the type of activity and number of participants. Private tours typically use private cars, super Jeeps, and minibusses. This setup is ideal for travelers who want a more personalized experience with a better pace and privacy.
Tours with more members use large buses to transport travelers to specific destinations. The buses can accommodate 30 passengers or more. This setup is standard for sightseeing excursions, like Golden Circle tours and South Coast tours.
Local Guides
Icelandic tour operators should use qualified local guides who know the tour region like the back of their hand. They’ll add more authenticity to your experience by introducing you to the history and culture of a region. Local tour guides also know all about Iceland's best restaurants and are happy to give you their recommendations.
Confirm that a tour company’s guides speak your language before you book. Many guides and travel agents in Iceland speak English to accommodate tourists. You can also find guides who speak French, German, Spanish, Chinese, and other languages.
Top 25 Best Iceland Tour Companies
Below is a list of 25 tour companies we consider the best in Iceland based on the five factors mentioned above. These operators are ranked and arranged based on their 5-star ratings, reviews, and tour quality — from lowest to highest.
Whether you want to experience lush green landscapes and mild weather with Icelandic summer tours or see glaciers and the northern lights up close on Iceland winter excursions, our list has you covered.
25. Iceland Photo Tours
This world-renowned tour company was founded by Iurie Belegurschi, an award-winning nature and landscape photographer. They offer tours for photography professionals or beginners and teach the best techniques and camera configurations so you get the perfect shots of Iceland’s awe-inspiring landscapes.
An Iceland photography tour is more than an expert-led workshop — it's also a guided sightseeing adventure to some of the most beautiful regions in the country.
Amongst the top-rated trips from Iceland Photo Tours are the eight-day South Coast photography workshop and the four-day northern lights and ice cave photo tour. Both tours include iconic Icelandic destinations like the Golden Circle and the glaciers of Vatnajokull National Park.
These tours include accommodations, breakfast on most packages, and transfers to and from Reykjavik. With expert guidance, stunning locations, and all the essentials covered, Iceland Photo Tours offer a once-in-a-lifetime experience for photographers of all levels.
24. Gravel Travel
They use luxury vehicles to drive you to some of the country’s top destinations in comfort and style. For example, this Landmannalaugar super Jeep tour from Reykjavik takes you to the heart of the Southern Highlands, where you’ll see waterfalls, lava fields, and scenic lakes. Meanwhile, the super jeep northern lights hunt is perfect for travelers who want to maximize their chance of seeing spectacular auroras, because these powerful vehicles can go where ordinary tour buses cannot.
23. Nordurflug Helicopter Tours
Hop on their 40-minute helicopter tour and get a bird’s-eye view of Reykjavik before experiencing a mountain summit landing. Nordurflug also offers a geothermal heli highlights tour, featuring unparalleled aerial views of the lava fields, geothermal vents, and hot springs of Hengill.
22. Glacier Journey
Some of Glacier Journey’s top guided excursions include their family-friendly ice cave tour, which starts from Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon, and a snowmobiling tour on Vatnajokull Glacier. Enjoy a rush of adrenaline while exploring these rugged and enchanted landscapes.
With a passion for adventure and a deep connection to Iceland’s glacial landscapes, Glacier Journey provides unforgettable experiences for thrill-seekers and nature lovers alike.
21. Arctic Adventures
Most Arctic Adventures tours operate out of Reykjavik. They offer a range of day and multi-day tours. Popular excursions include their ice tunnel tour in Langjokull Glacier and a two-day northern lights tour where you explore the Snaefellsnes Peninsula and West Iceland.
If you’re planning a long visit to Iceland, consider their six-day guided tour of the Ring Road, with ice caving in winter and a glacier hike in summer. This bus tour includes cozy accommodations, complimentary breakfasts, and stops at some of the most magical sights in Iceland.
20. Special Tours Wildlife Adventures
Special Tours offers a variety of boat excursions, including their top-rated Reykjavik whale-watching tour and a family-friendly puffin tour, which features Iceland's most adorable seabird and is a must-do for those traveling with kids. They also provide a family-friendly sea-fishing tour and a northern lights cruise.
With expert guides and a range of family-oriented excursions, Special Tours offers the perfect way to experience Iceland’s incredible marine life and coastal beauty.
19. Íshestar
Riders of all levels can explore lava fields and volcanic terrain on their top-selling beginner Icelandic horseback tour, a scenic excursion through rugged natural landscapes just outside Reykjavik. For a little more adventure, a three-hour countryside riding tour that showcases Iceland’s natural beauty is a good fit. Looking for something exclusive? Íshestar also offers a private Icelandic horseback riding tour, perfectly tailored to your skill level and interests.
Discover Iceland the way the Vikings did — on horseback with Íshestar.
18. Mountaineers of Iceland
Mountaineers of Iceland offers tours for beginners and experts. Their popular adventures include a four-hour snowmobiling trip on Langjokull Glacier, as well as combination tours like a Golden Circle and snowmobiling tour and a snowmobile tour with ice-caving.
Tours operate out of Reykjavik and from Gullfoss Waterfall, with transfers via bus or minibus. You must be at least age 18 and have a valid driver's license to drive a snowmobile, but children six and older can ride as passengers.
17. Saga Travel | Iceland Horizon
Savor a day of adventure in North Iceland with their Myvatn tour from Akureyri, capped off by a rejuvenating dip in the Myvatn Nature Baths, a lesser-known yet stunning alternative to the Blue Lagoon.
Chase the auroras on a small group North Iceland aurora tour, where expert guides take you to the best viewing locations for an unforgettable night under the Arctic sky. If you’re arriving by cruise ship, the South Coast day tour with a convenient Reykjavik port pick-up offers an immersive journey to Iceland’s black sand beaches, majestic waterfalls, and towering glaciers.
Let Saga Travel craft an adventure tailored to your interests — whether it’s chasing waterfalls, soaking in hot springs, or exploring Iceland’s rugged beauty.
16. Crystal Cave Tours
Venture deep inside a shimmering ice cave with the signature Crystal Blue Ice Cave tour, where natural tunnels of translucent ice create a mesmerizing atmosphere found nowhere else on Earth.
For those looking to experience the thrill of glacier travel, their guided glacier hiking tour offers stunning views and an up-close look at the raw power of nature. Want to take your adventure to the next level? Book a combination excursion, which includes a blue ice cave tour, super Jeep ride, and glacier hike.
Join Crystal Cave Tours for an adventure where ice, light, and nature combine to create an experience you’ll never forget.
15. Elding Adventure at Sea
This family-owned tour company was the first to offer whale-watching tours from the heart of Reykjavik, and their Akureyri whale-watching tour is also a top-rated experience.
Other popular tours include their whale and puffin watching tour and northern lights cruise, both offering pick-ups from Reykjavik. Most of their tours last 2–3 hours, but they also offer a few combo packages, like a two-port whale-watching tour in Akureyri and Reykjavik.
14. Your Friend in Reykjavik
From casual walking tours to outdoor adventures, Your Friend in Reykjavik is one of the most versatile tour companies in Iceland. They specialize in personalized experiences for those who prefer a laid-back approach.
Your Friend in Reykjavik has you covered if you’re looking for day tours while staying in the capital. They offer some of the city's best-rated walking tours, including an Icelandic folklore walking tour, a Viking history walking tour, and the Reykjavik food lovers walking tour.
Their guides are typically locals with in-depth knowledge of the city and a passion for sharing insights, stories, and recommendations with guests. Planning a special occasion or group trip? Your Friend in Reykjavik also offers private and customizable versions of all their most popular tours.
13. Eldhestar Horse Riding
Horseback riding is a perfect way to tour Iceland in the summer and take in the spectacular natural landmarks. Eldhestar Horse Riding operates out of its farm 29 miles (47 kilometers) southeast of Reykjavik and specializes in horseback riding excursions for all skill levels.
Their Golden Circle day tour with horse riding begins with a morning ride, followed by an afternoon sightseeing excursion around Iceland's iconic Golden Circle, including the Gullfoss Waterfall, the Geysir Geothermal Area, and Thingvellir National Park.
They also offer a horse riding and hot springs tour through the steamy landscapes of Southwest Iceland's Gufudalur Valley.
These tours include Reykjavik pick-ups for a smooth and seamless adventure. Families booking riding tours should note that the minimum age to enjoy most Eldhestar excursions is seven.
In addition to their tour packages, Eldhestar Horse Riding manages Hotel Eldhestar, where you can enjoy top-rated accommodations on their scenic horse farm and savor locally sourced Icelandic dishes at the on-site restaurant.
12. DIVE.IS
On their classic Silfra snorkeling tour, you'll float between two continents in an otherworldly rift where glacial water filtered through lava rock creates visibility exceeding 100 meters.
For the ultimate relaxation after your adventure, combine a Silfra snorkeling tour with the Laugarvatn Fontana visit, a rejuvenating geothermal spa nearby.
Looking to take your skills to the next level? Their specialized PADI drysuit diver training course prepares divers to explore the cold-water environments of Iceland with confidence and comfort.
Whether you’re a first-time snorkeler or a seasoned diver, DIVE.IS provides expert guidance, top-tier equipment, and access to some of the most stunning underwater landscapes in the world.
11. Sólhestar
For those short on time, a scenic horse riding tour through the Raudholar Red Hills, just outside Reykjavik, is an excellent introduction to the Icelandic horse, known for its smooth gait and friendly nature.
If you’re looking for a relaxed journey through lava fields and lush meadows, a one-hour Reykjadalur geothermal valley riding tour offers a taste of Iceland’s rugged beauty. For a more immersive adventure, book the horse riding and hot spring experience, which combines a ride through the steamy landscapes of Reykjadalur with a dip in a natural hot spring for a picturesque and memorable journey.
10. Adventure Vikings
The most popular excursion is snorkeling at the Silfra fissure in Thingvellir National Park. The waters are considered some of the clearest in the world. Their drysuit and wetsuit snorkeling tours give you a chance to explore the tectonic rift and take underwater photos.
They also offer combination tours, such as a Silfra snorkeling and horseback riding adventure. If you're curious to learn more about Iceland's volcanic history, the Leidarendi Cave tour is the perfect place to start.
9. David the Guide
Witness the magic of the Arctic sky on an intimate Reykjavik northern lights tour, where expert guides take you off the beaten path for the best chance to see the auroras dance above the untouched wilderness.
For those craving more adventure, a two-day journey along the South Coast unveils black sand beaches, ice caves, glacier lagoons, and ice-dotted shorelines, offering an awe-inspiring glimpse into Iceland’s dramatic landscapes.
Prefer a mix of history, nature, and culture? A small-group tour of the Golden Circle takes you to geysers, waterfalls, and a volcanic crater, with a stop at a charming greenhouse farm for a taste of locally grown tomatoes.
With David the Guide, every tour is more than just sightseeing — it’s an adventure crafted with passion, connection, and a love for Iceland’s wilderness.
8. Troll Expeditions
If you want to see the best Iceland has to offer, don't miss their 3-day northern lights tour, which highlights all the must-see destinations, including the Golden Circle, South Coast, glacier lagoon, and an ice cave.
They also offer a wide variety of top-rated day trips, including a snorkeling tour in the Silfra fissure, where you’ll dive between two tectonic plates, as well as a small-group tour of the Golden Circle. Looking for more adrenaline? Explore ice ridges, ice caps, and crevasses on their Skaftafell glacier hiking tour.
With a passion for adventure and expertly guided tours, Troll Expeditions ensures an exciting and immersive way to experience Iceland’s breathtaking landscapes.
7. Jokulsarlon | Glacier Lagoon Tours
Join the affordable Jokulsarlon boat tour to get a close-up view of the icebergs as they head toward the ocean. Or, book the glacier lagoon zodiac boat tour for an even more intimate perspective ride. Both tours depart from the Jokulsarlon Cafe and run from May to November.
With top-rated boat tours, Jokulsarlon provides an incredible opportunity to explore Iceland’s ever-changing glacial wonderland.
6. Atlantsflug
See Iceland like never before with Atlantsflug, the premier plane and heli-tour operator specializing in breathtaking aerial adventures over glaciers, volcanoes, and rugged highlands. Based in South Iceland, Atlantsflug’s expert pilots trade office walls for open skies, offering unmatched views of the country’s most dramatic landscapes.
On the volcano helicopter tour, you'll lift off from Reykjavik and soar above a recently active volcanic zone, where steaming craters and blackened lava fields create an otherworldly scene visible only from the air.
For a truly exclusive experience, a Skaftafell airplane tour reveals sweeping glaciers, jagged peaks, and untouched wilderness stretching as far as the eye can see.
Looking for a more remote adventure? Fly over the colorful rhyolite mountains and winding river valleys of Landmannalaugar on a Highlands sightseeing flight, where Iceland’s most stunning terrain unfolds beneath you.
When it comes to experiencing Iceland’s untamed beauty, the best seat is in the sky with Atlantsflug.
5. BusTravel Iceland
BusTravel offers tours to some of the most popular destinations in Iceland. Their South Coast sightseeing tour features waterfalls, glaciers, and black sand beaches. They also offer a top-rated northern lights tour from Reykjavik and a six-day adventure around Iceland's Ring Road.
In addition to their budget-friendly packages, BusTravel provides knowledgeable guides and excellent itineraries so you can sit back and enjoy the experience.
4. Reykjavik Excursions
Reykjavik Excursions is one of the largest and longest-running Icelandic tour companies. They’re known for their affordable bus tours to must-see destinations in and outside of Reykjavik.
Their top excursions from the capital city include a Golden Circle afternoon tour and a South Coast waterfalls and glacier lagoon tour.
For relaxation and seamless travel, their Blue Lagoon comfort package with a transfer from Reykjavik is the ultimate way to add some self-care to your itinerary. If your travel style is more adventurous, their five-day Landmannalaugar Highlands hiking trip is a once-in-a-lifetime journey worthy of your bucket list.
With a wide range of tours catering to every kind of traveler, Reykjavik Excursions makes exploring Iceland easy, comfortable, and unforgettable.
3. Katlatrack
Katlatrack specializes in ice cave tours but also offers other outdoor adventures that take visitors to beautiful destinations in the south. They use super Jeeps, ATVs, buggies, or minibusses on their excursions.
Their black sand beach buggy tour is perfect if you want a fast-paced ride on the South Coast. But their most popular tours include trips to Katla, one of Iceland’s most active volcanoes. Consider their Katla volcano ice-caving tour from Vik for a guided experience within the 800-year-old glacier, or combine an ice cave tour with glacier hiking for a well-rounded glacial adventure.
2. Your Day Tours
Explore Iceland’s most breathtaking destinations with Your Day Tours, a family-owned company dedicated to bringing travelers closer to the country’s natural wonders and rich history. Specializing in small-group experiences, Your Day Tours combines expert storytelling with seamless travel to Iceland’s must-see locations.
Embark on a Golden Circle and Secret Lagoon tour, where you’ll witness geysers erupting and waterfalls cascading, and unwind in a geothermal hot spring tucked away in the countryside.
For those captivated by Iceland’s rugged beauty, a South Coast full-day tour takes you to towering waterfalls, black sand beaches, and a glacier lagoon dotted with floating icebergs.
If you’re drawn to dramatic coastlines and volcanic landscapes, the Snaefellsnes Peninsula tour showcases Iceland’s diverse scenery, including the iconic Kirkjufell Mountain.
During the summer months, don’t miss the Westman Islands puffin and volcano tour from Reykjavik, an exclusive adventure where you can spot puffins in their natural habitat before exploring a historic volcanic site.
With Your Day Tours, you'll do more than just see the sights — you'll experience Iceland’s landscapes, delve into its local legends, and immerse yourself in its unique charm.
1. Nicetravel
Topping our list of the best Iceland tour operators, Nicetravel is known for its personalized service, small-group experiences, and expertly crafted itineraries. Founded by three Icelandic families, Nicetravel prides itself on delivering immersive and stress-free adventures that showcase the country’s most breathtaking sights.
Embark on a 2-day South Coast and ice cave tour, where you’ll witness powerful waterfalls and black sand beaches and explore a dazzling ice cave in Vatnajokull National Park.
For those captivated by dramatic coastlines and folklore, the 2-day Snaefellsnes National Park tour takes you through lava fields, charming fishing villages, and past the picturesque Kirkjufell Mountain.
If you want to see it all, the 7-day guided Ring Road tour offers a comprehensive journey around Iceland, including glacier hikes, geothermal wonders, and volcanic landscapes. Short on time? The Golden Circle and Blue Lagoon tour combines Iceland’s most famous natural attractions with a relaxing soak in the country’s most renowned geothermal spa.
With Nicetravel, every trip is designed to be effortless and filled with the warmth of true Icelandic hospitality.
Booking Tours with Guide to Iceland
These 25 companies are just some of the best tour operators in Iceland. Each has excellent tour packages that fit the adventure every traveler is looking for.
As the largest travel marketplace in the country, Guide to Iceland partners with these leading tour operators, making it easy to provide you with high-quality tours and services.
Guide to Iceland also offers everything you might need from the start to the end of your holiday. In particular, we provide the best flights and accommodations in Iceland.
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FAQs About Iceland Tour Companies
To help you find the best tours for your trip, here are the most frequently asked questions about tour companies in Iceland.
What is the best time of year to book tours in Iceland?
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Summer (June–August): Best for hiking, road trips, and wildlife (puffins, whales, and birdwatching).
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Winter (September–March): Best for northern lights, ice caves, and glacier activities.
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Shoulder seasons (April–May, September–October): Fewer tourists, lower prices, and still great scenery.
Are Icelandic tours expensive?
Yes, Iceland is known for being pricey, but your costs will vary:
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Budget tours: 50–150 USD (e.g., bus tours)
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Mid-range tours: 150–300 USD (e.g., glacier hikes, ice caving)
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Luxury/private tours: 400+ USD per person
Booking in advance and choosing combo tours can help you save money.
Are self-drive tours better than guided tours?
Self-drive tours offer flexibility but require confidence in driving under Iceland’s unpredictable weather conditions. Guided tours are stress-free, with expert knowledge and no worries about navigation. The choice depends on your travel style!
Are Iceland tours suitable for families with kids?
Yes! Many tour companies offer family-friendly options, including:
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Golden Circle & South Coast tours (easy walks and sightseeing)
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Puffin watching in summer
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Horseback riding on Icelandic horses
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Lava cave tours for an exciting underground adventure
For young kids, avoid high-intensity activities like glacier hikes and ice caving.
Do tour companies offer hotel pick-up and drop-off?
Most Reykjavik-based tours offer pick-up from hotels or designated bus stops. However, some budget tours require you to meet at a central location. Always check the details before booking.
Where is the best place to book tours in Iceland?
The easiest way to browse and book tours is through Guide to Iceland, the largest travel marketplace in Iceland. You'll have a best-price guarantee, an incredible selection to choose from, and a team of local travel experts who are ready to help with booking if you need it.
Are last-minute tour bookings possible in Iceland?
Yes, but availability may be limited, especially for ice cave tours, glacier hikes, northern lights tours, and small-group or private tours.
What types of tours should I book in advance?
It's best to book popular tours ahead of time, especially in peak seasons. These include northern lights tours in winter, as well as ice cave explorations, glacier hikes, multi-day adventures, Silfra snorkeling experiences, helicopter excursions, and super Jeep tours.
What is the cancellation policy for most Icelandic tours?
Most tour operators have flexible cancellation policies, often allowing free cancellations up to 24–48 hours before the tour. Some multi-day tours, however, require at least a week’s notice for refunds.
Note that many whale-watching and northern lights tours offer free rebooking if no whales or auroras were spotted.
Are there discounts for booking multiple tours?
Some companies offer combo deals or discounts for multi-tour bookings, especially on sites like Guide to Iceland. Also, look for early booking discounts.
What Iceland tours sound the most exciting to you? Have you tried any of these tours before? How was your experience? Share your thoughts in the comment section below!
