Circle of Iceland With Snaefellsnes Peninsula | 10 Day Winter Package

Day two marks the official start of your Ring Road adventure as you set out to explore the Golden Circle and the South Coast. After breakfast, a minibus will pick you up from Reykjavik, taking you to Iceland’s most famous natural sights.

Your first stop is Thingvellir National Park, where you can walk through Almannagja Gorge, a rift formed between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates. As you follow the marked paths, you’ll also see the site of Althingi, the world’s oldest continuing parliament, founded by early Icelandic settlers.

Next, you’ll visit the Geysir Geothermal Area in the Haukadalur Valley, where steaming vents, hot springs, and bubbling mud pots shape the landscape.

Nearby, you’ll find Geysir, the geyser that gave its name to geysers around the world. You’ll also see Strokkur, which erupts every few minutes and sends water high into the air.

Your Golden Circle experience concludes at Gullfoss, one of Iceland’s most impressive waterfalls. Fed by the Hvita River, glacial water crashes over two steps into a deep canyon below. On clear days, mist rising from the falls often creates colorful rainbows.

Afterward, the journey continues along Iceland’s scenic South Coast. You’ll visit Seljalandsfoss and Skogafoss, two iconic waterfalls set against towering cliffs.

At Seljalandsfoss, you can walk behind the curtain of water and see the waterfall from a unique angle. A short drive away, Skogafoss is a wide, powerful waterfall where you can feel the mist at its base or climb the nearby steps for views from above.

The day ends at Reynisfjara, a striking black sand beach framed by basalt columns, the Reynisdrangar Sea Stacks, and crashing waves.

After taking in the beauty of the southern coastline, you’ll settle into your South Iceland accommodation for the night. Keep an eye on the sky, as you might catch a dazzling display of the northern lights.

Day three continues along Iceland’s South Coast, where black sand, glaciers, and deep canyons shape the landscape. Your day begins in Vik, a small coastal village surrounded by volcanic beaches and towering cliffs, offering sweeping views of the Atlantic and the shoreline.

From here, you’ll visit Vatnajokull National Park to explore a natural ice cave inside the glacier. These caves change every year, revealing smooth ice walls, bright blue tones, and unique shapes formed by nature.

Your guide will select the best accessible ice cave based on weather and conditions to ensure a safe and rewarding experience.

The adventure continues to Fjadrargljufur Canyon, a winding gorge carved by a glacial river. You can follow the marked paths along the canyon’s edge, taking in views of moss-covered cliffs and the river flowing far below.

Later in the day, you’ll arrive at Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon, one of Iceland’s most breathtaking sights. Walk along the shoreline as massive icebergs drift slowly across the water toward the ocean, their shapes and colors constantly changing.

Just steps away is Diamond Beach, where chunks of ice rest on black sand and sparkle in the light, creating one of Iceland’s most striking photo spots. Seals are often spotted here, swimming near the shore or resting on the ice.

In the evening, you’ll arrive in Hofn, a quiet coastal town known for its seafood and stunning views. Here, you can take in the peaceful surroundings after a day of adventure.

You’ll travel north through the stunning Eastfjords on day four. This lesser-traveled route reveals a secluded gem of remarkable beauty.

The journey begins in Djupivogur, a small fishing village known for its peaceful atmosphere and scenic harbor. Take time to walk along the waterfront, see the stone egg sculptures at Eggin i Gledivik, and enjoy views of colorful boats and the village lighthouse.

Leaving the coast behind, you’ll continue inland to Egilsstadir, the main town of East Iceland. You will pass by the mysterious Lagarfljot Lake, which is steeped in folklore, with tales of a legendary lake serpent lurking beneath its depths.

Once in Egilsstadir, you’ll take a midday break with time to relax and enjoy lunch at one of the town’s local cafés or restaurants.

In the afternoon, the route takes you to Borgarfjordur Eystri, a remote and scenic area known for its wide views and striking landscapes. In winter, the area feels especially quiet and atmospheric, with snow-dusted hills, empty trails, and panoramic viewpoints overlooking the fjord, making it a peaceful stop for photography and short walks.

Later in the day, you have the option to unwind at the Vok Baths near Egilsstadir. Set on a lake and heated by geothermal energy, the pools offer a relaxing way to end the day.

As the day draws to a close, you’ll return to Egilsstadir for the night, where you can unwind and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere after a full day of exploration.

If conditions are right, keep an eye on the sky, as you may be rewarded with a glimpse of the northern lights before resting up for the next stage of your journey around Iceland.

For day five, you’ll travel north toward some of Iceland’s most striking landscapes. Throughout the day, the constant backdrop of Vatnajokull, Europe's largest glacier, will accompany you, offering numerous breathtaking vistas and photo opportunities.

Your first stop is Studlagil Canyon in the Jokuldalur Valley, a gorge lined with towering basalt columns rising above the river below. This striking canyon remained hidden for many years and is now one of East Iceland’s most impressive natural sights. You’ll have time to take in the views and walk along the paths that reveal the canyon’s unique rock formations.

Next, the route leads to Dettifoss, Europe’s most powerful waterfall. From the viewing paths, you can watch the Jokulsa a Fjollum River plunge into a deep canyon, feel the mist on your face, and hear the roar of the water echo through the landscape.

The journey continues into the Lake Myvatn area, known for its unusual volcanic landscapes. At Namaskard Pass, you’ll encounter steaming vents, bubbling mud pots, and colorful mineral deposits that show Iceland’s geothermal energy at work. Clearly marked paths allow you to explore the area safely while taking photos of the surreal surroundings.

You’ll then visit Dimmuborgir, a vast lava field filled with jagged formations, arches, and caves formed by ancient eruptions. Walking through this maze-like landscape feels almost otherworldly and is closely tied to local folklore.

A short stop at Skutustadagigar offers views of snow-covered pseudocraters and wetlands around Lake Myvatn, providing a quieter contrast to the day’s more dramatic sites.

Before reaching Akureyri, you’ll stop at the beautiful Godafoss Waterfall, where water flows in a graceful horseshoe shape. In winter, parts of the waterfall may be frozen, adding to its scenic appeal.

As evening approaches, you’ll arrive in Akureyri, the capital of North Iceland, where you’ll settle into your accommodation. After a day of exploration, you can unwind and step outside later in the evening for a chance to see the northern lights dancing above the town.

Day six begins in Akureyri, the capital of North Iceland, before the journey continues west through one of the country’s quieter and less-visited regions.

You have the opportunity to start the day with an optional whale-watching tour from Akureyri, heading out into Eyjafjordur to look for whales and dolphins with snow-covered mountains rising on either side of the fjord.

Leaving Akureyri behind, you’ll travel through rural landscapes toward Glaumbaer, a historic turf farm that offers a glimpse into traditional Icelandic life. Here, you can explore well-preserved turf houses and learn how families once lived and worked in this remote region.

The route then leads to Borgarvirki, a natural basalt fortress perched high above the surrounding plains. A short walk brings you to the top, where you can take in wide views of the countryside and imagine how this formation was once used as a defensive stronghold.

Continuing along the coast, you’ll stop at Hvitserkur, a striking rock formation on the shoreline. Take a moment to capture a few photos of this massive monolith, and imagine as you ponder whether its striking silhouette resembles a dragon or an elephant, allowing you to form your own conclusion.

Next, you’ll visit Kolugljufur Canyon, where a river cuts through the landscape, creating a series of waterfalls and steep cliffs. Follow the paths along the canyon’s edge to watch the water rush below and enjoy the quiet, open surroundings.

As night falls, you might see the northern lights dancing across the sky. You’ll settle into your accommodation in Laugarbakki for the night, where you can relax and reflect on the day’s experiences before resting up for another day of adventure.

Day seven takes you through the heart of Borgarfjordur, a region where volcanic terrain, powerful hot springs, and Icelandic history come together. The day moves at a relaxed pace, blending short walks with scenic stops and moments to take in the quieter side of the country.

Your first stop is Grabrok Crater, an easily accessible volcanic cone with a short path leading to the rim. From the top, you can look out over lava fields and wide valleys, gaining a sense of the volcanic forces that shaped the region.

A short drive brings you to Glanni Waterfall, a gentle cascade set along a calm river. Follow the nearby paths to enjoy the peaceful surroundings before continuing deeper into the Borgarfjordur countryside.

Next, you’ll visit Hraunfossar and Barnafoss, two neighboring waterfalls with very different characters. At Hraunfossar, clear streams flow through dark lava rock, while nearby Barnafoss rushes through a narrow gorge with striking blue water. Walk the connected paths to see both viewpoints and take in the contrast between them.

The journey continues to Sturlureykir Horse Farm, where you can meet Icelandic horses and learn about their unique gait and role in local culture.

Nearby, you’ll also stop at Deildartunguhver, Europe’s most powerful hot spring, where steaming water bursts from the ground and provides heat to nearby towns.

As evening approaches, you’ll arrive in Borgarnes, where you’ll settle into your accommodation for the night. Take time to relax and enjoy the fjord views before settling in for the night. You may also be lucky enough to see the northern lights glowing above the town.

Today marks the end of your memorable Iceland adventure. If you have time before your flight, take the opportunity to make the most of your final moments in Reykjavik. 

Stroll through Reykjavik’s colorful streets, stopping at boutique shops along the way. Immerse yourself in the fascinating history and culture of Iceland by visiting its captivating museums, which offer a deeper understanding of this remarkable country.

If you have a later flight, you might want to visit the Blue Lagoon for a relaxing soak. This famous hot spring provides the perfect setting to unwind before your departure. Immerse yourself in the warm, mineral-rich waters and reflect on the incredible adventure you have just experienced in the captivating land of fire and ice.

If your flight is later in the day, there are still various things to do to enjoy in Reykjavik. Enjoy your final hours in Reykjavik before heading to the airport.

When the time comes, a shuttle bus will transport you back to the airport, making your trip back home hassle-free. As you embark on your return, carry with you a camera full of cherished photos and a heart filled with unforgettable memories of your time in Iceland. 

Safe travels, and we hope to have you back again soon.