Circle of Iceland With Snaefellsnes Peninsula | 10 Day Winter Package

Day two marks the official start of your adventure as you embark on a thrilling sightseeing tour of the renowned Golden Circle. A minibus will pick you up from Reykjavik, taking you to stunning natural wonders and historic landmarks of the area.

First on the itinerary is Thingvellir National Park, a place of great geological and historical significance. 

Thingvellir sits at the meeting point of the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates, creating striking geological formations. As these plates drift apart, they form deep ravines filled with crystal-clear spring water. Thingvellir is also historically significant as the site of Althingi, the world’s oldest continuing parliament, founded by early Icelanders.

Next, your adventure takes you to Haukadalur Valley, renowned for its mesmerizing geysers. 

The most famous, Geysir, is the namesake of geysers worldwide. Though Geysir is less active, its neighbor Strokkur erupts every five to ten minutes, sending water up to 66 feet (20 meters) into the air. 

Haukadalur Valley features numerous hot springs, fumaroles, and bubbling mud pots, shaping a surreal landscape.

Your final stop on this Golden Circle tour is Gullfoss, one of Iceland’s most impressive waterfalls. Here, the Hvita glacier river plunges over two tiers into an ancient canyon. On sunny days, the waterfall’s mist creates rainbows, adding beauty to your visit.

At the end of the day, relax at your South Iceland accommodation and take in the day's experiences. 

Day three takes you along Iceland’s breathtaking South Coast, where nature’s beauty is on full display. This scenic route offers ever-changing landscapes, from waterfalls to glaciers, making for an unforgettable journey. Your day will commence with visits to two iconic waterfalls, Seljalandsfoss and Skogafoss.

Both of these remarkable waterfalls plunge from towering cliffs, which once marked Iceland's ancient coastline during the last ice age. Standing at over 197 feet (60 meters) in height, they showcase their unique personalities. 

Seljalandsfoss flows in a narrow stream, and its concave cliff allows visitors to walk behind it when conditions allow. Skogafoss, in contrast, is a wide and powerful waterfall with a classic shape.

Next, you’ll visit Solheimajokull, a striking glacier tongue known for its vast size and contrasting colors. The glacier displays a mix of white snow, blue ice, and black ash, creating a striking visual contrast. You’ll also have the option to join a glacier hike, stepping onto the icy terrain for an unforgettable experience.

In the evening, you’ll reach Reynisfjara, Iceland’s famous black sand beach known for its dramatic rock formations. Here, the Dyrholaey rock arch juts into the ocean, while the Reynisdrangar sea stacks tower above the waves, creating a striking coastal scene.

You’ll spend the night in South Iceland, surrounded by peaceful landscapes. 

Keep an eye on the sky, as you might catch a dazzling display of the northern lights.

On day four, you’ll venture into the remote South Coast, crossing the vast Maelifellssandur black-sand desert. Your journey leads to Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon, one of Iceland’s most stunning natural wonders.

Walk along the shores of this vast lake, where towering icebergs, once part of a glacier, drift toward the ocean. The shimmering ice formations create an unforgettable view. 

Next to the lagoon is Diamond Beach, where icebergs rest on black sand, glistening in the sunlight. This remarkable location is also a sanctuary for an abundance of seals, making it one of the prime spots in the southeastern corner of the country to catch a glimpse of these charismatic creatures.

Next, you’ll explore Iceland’s incredible ice caves, a rare and breathtaking natural phenomenon. These magnificent caves feature striking ice formations and an otherworldly glow. 

This winter season, two beautiful ice caves have been discovered in the Vatnajokull National Park: the Western Ice Cave and the Eastern Ice Cave. You’ll visit the best accessible ice cave, chosen based on weather and visibility, for a safe and enjoyable experience.

Those fortunate enough to experience an ice cave firsthand are treated to a surreal journey through a world of translucent ice formations. If you're traveling before November, you'll have the opportunity to explore a cave in the majestic Myrdalsjokull glacier during the morning. 

For those traveling later in the year, an ice cave in Vatnajokull National Park awaits in the afternoon, promising an equally awe-inspiring encounter.

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. 

On day seven, you’ll continue exploring Northern Iceland before heading south. Your day begins with a venture to Eyjafjordur, the agricultural heartland of the North, where you'll embark on a scenic tour of this beautiful fjord, marveling at the expansive farmlands and expansive mountain views that define the region.

In the town of Hauganes, you’ll have the chance to enjoy a special experience. If you yearn to witness the captivating view of Eyjafjordur fjord from the perspective of the sea, take the chance to embark on a thrilling whale-watching tour. Head out onto the fjord to spot whales, with mountains providing a stunning backdrop.

Next, 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.

As you make your way towards your accommodations in the Borgarnes region, prepare to be treated to stunning views along the route. Your knowledgeable guide will lead you to hidden gems and make stops for refreshments, ensuring you have the opportunity to fully appreciate the beauty of your surroundings. 

As night falls, you might see the northern lights dancing across the sky. Unwind in the hotel's warm hot tub, gazing upwards in hopes of witnessing this natural phenomenon.

Finally, you'll settle into your accommodations in West Iceland, where you can relax and reflect on the extraordinary experiences. Rest up for another day of adventure as you continue exploring Iceland.

On day eight, start your journey at the impressive Gerduberg cliffs on the Snaefellsnes Peninsula. Marvel at the sight of countless hexagonal basalt columns standing tall like the walls of a medieval fortress. This natural wonder highlights the Earth's geological forces and its striking formations. 

Continuing your adventure, make your way to Ytri-Tunga beach, where you may have the opportunity to observe seals leisurely basking on the soft white sands. Seeing these animals in their natural habitat is a rare and memorable sight.

This 56-mile (90-kilometer) coastal stretch, often called 'Iceland in Miniature,' offers a dense mix of the country's diverse landscapes.

Your next stop is the charming village of Arnarstapi, offering breathtaking views of the ocean, majestic cliffs, and a vibrant avian population. Take a moment to soak in the serenity of this scenic spot and witness the harmonious coexistence of land, sea, and birdlife.

Continue your exploration at Djupalonssandur black beach, where dramatic rock formations line the shore. The landscape here is steeped in history, offering a glimpse into Iceland’s past. 

Throughout your journey, the magnificent Snaefellsjokull glacier and volcano will serve as a striking backdrop, dominating the landscape and adding an element of mystique to your adventures. This majestic feature gained fame through Jules Verne's renowned novel, "Journey to the Centre of the Earth," further enhancing its allure.

Next, you’ll visit Kirkjufell, one of Iceland’s most photographed mountains. This iconic landmark, often captured in photographs alongside the nearby Kirkjufellsfoss waterfall, showcases the epitome of Iceland's natural splendor.

Today, you'll also have the option to embark on a unique lava-caving tour in the impressive Vidgelmir lava tube. Explore underground caves and witness the fascinating geological formations carved by ancient volcanic activity, offering insight into Iceland's volcanic past.

After a full day of exploring the peninsula, you’ll head to your accommodations in the West to rest for the days ahead.