Scenic 10-Day Northern Lights Winter Vacation Package Tour around Iceland

The Hofskirkja turf church in East Iceland under blankets of winter snow.
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Description

Summary

Tour starts
Keflavík Airport (KEF), Iceland
Starting time
Flexible
Duration
10 days
Ending place
Keflavík Airport (KEF), Iceland
Languages
English
Difficulty
Easy
Available
Aug. - Mar.
Minimum age
12 years old

Description

Experience the best of Iceland on this 10-day winter package focusing on the famous Ring Road. Adventurers who want to see the highlights of scenic locations like the Golden Circle sightseeing route, the South Coast, and the remote East Fjords while having plenty of time searching for the northern lights will love the itinerary of this vacation package.

Your multi-day adventure in Iceland begins when you land at Keflavik International Airport. You'll take a complimentary bus transfer from the airport to Reykjavik, Iceland's capital city, before spending the next 10 days circling the land of fire and ice.

This winter package is an excellent option for travelers who want all details of their vacation taken care of, from arrival to departure. A detailed itinerary, nine nights' accommodation, a helpline to contact 24/7, and local guides to assist and enrich your experience are included.

By opting for a vacation package with drivers and guides, you benefit from the knowledge and experience of locals who are well-versed in exploring the country. They have the expertise of Iceland's winter road network, ensuring a safe and smooth journey without having to drive yourself.

In addition, the guides can provide you with information, trivia, and stories. Not only will you enjoy the breathtaking scenery, but you will also learn more about their composition and history.

The highlight of this highly-rated winter trip is the six days you will spend along the Ring Road, Iceland's national road, famous for its variety of scenery and picturesque towns. 

Some iconic sights you'll visit include the Thingvellir National Park on the Golden Circle sightseeing route, the Skogafoss and Seljalandsfoss waterfalls on the South Coast, the Jokulsarlon glacier lagoon, and Lake Myvatn in North Iceland.

The settlements in your itinerary include Vik, Hofn, Egilsstadir, Akureyri, Reykjavik, and more. Visiting these charming villages and towns will tell you more about the country's vibrant culture. You can also talk to the locals, as Icelanders are known for their friendliness.

Besides sightseeing, this top-rated winter package lets you experience activity tours to make your trip even more exciting. Glacier hiking, whale-watching, and ice caving are included in this package, and you can add horseback riding and geothermal bathing opportunities during the booking process.

Each night during your adventure, you’ll have the chance to see the elusive aurora borealis against the snowy backdrop of this remarkable vacation destination.

In the event of any unexpected adjustments to your travel arrangements, you can cancel your booking up to 24 hours before departure and receive a full refund.

Take advantage of this excellent opportunity to see why Iceland in winter is a vacation destination filled with adventure and magic. Check availability now by choosing a date.

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Included

4 nights of accommodation in Reykjavik (different levels available, breakfast not included for Super Budget or Budget levels, breakfast included for Comfort and Quality levels, more detailed info below)
5 nights of accommodation around the countryside of Iceland (breakfast included, private bathroom)
6-day tour of the Ring Road of Iceland in a small group
Minibus transportation on the guided Golden Circle tour
Experienced local driver and guide on Golden Circle tour (English speaking)
Return transfer between Keflavik international airport and Reykjavik
Taxes
Personal travel agent
Detailed itinerary
Glacier hike
Ice cave tour
Whale watching tour

Activities

Glacier Hiking
Snorkelling
Hiking
Snowmobile
Horse Riding
Whale Watching
Sightseeing
Hot Spring Bathing
Cultural Activity
Airplane

Daily itinerary

Day 1
The Blue Lagoon geothermal spa, located in the rugged lava field of the Reykjanes Peninsula.

Day 1 - Arrival in Iceland

You will arrive in the country on the first day of your winter vacation in Iceland.

Once you have arrived at Keflavik International Airport, you have two options to start your winter vacation in the land of fire and ice. You can either head straight to Iceland's capital city, Reykjavik, or opt for a bathing experience at the famous Blue Lagoon geothermal spa.

If you arrive before 3:00 p.m. (15:00), a direct transfer from the airport to the Blue Lagoon geothermal spa is available. 

If your flight arrives after this time, you can add a trip to the Blue Lagoon geothermal spa on another day so you won't miss out on this incredible experience.

Situated on the Reykjanes Peninsula, the Blue Lagoon geothermal spa is one of Iceland's most famous attractions. The sparkling blue waters of this mesmerizing attraction are in the middle of a black and moss-covered lava field.

The warm waters of the Blue Lagoon geothermal spa are known for their healing properties, which can both relax and revitalize you. It's an incredible way to unwind after a flight before beginning the next leg of your journey.

If you choose to add the experience of the Blue Lagoon geothermal spa to your vacation package, two options are available. The comfort entrance gives you all you need for relaxation, including a silica mud mask and towel use. 

The premium entrance provides extras like more silica mud masks, a bathrobe and towel use, and a table reservation at the acclaimed LAVA restaurant.

Later, you will arrive in the nation's capital, Reykjavik. Here, you will have a chance to take in the sights and sounds of an incredibly vibrant city with the title of the most northern capital in the world. 

You can spend the rest of your day exploring, taking in famous landmarks, and enjoying the local atmosphere before you head to your accommodation.

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Day 2
Snow covered trees in the city of Reykjavík in winter.

Day 2 - Free Day in Reykjavik

The second day of your winter vacation in Iceland is an opportunity to get to know Reykjavik. 

If you enjoy sightseeing, today is a great chance to take in the city's surroundings by exploring Reykjavik on foot. Reykjavik's small size makes it a perfect place to take it all in on a stroll. 

You should make sure to visit Hallgrimskirkja church. It's the largest church in Iceland, and a trip up to the top of Hallgrimskirkja church's tower gives an incredible panoramic view of the city. 

The basalt columns surrounding a waterfall in the Skaftafell Nature Reserve inspired the church's majestic architecture.

Another fantastic place to admire the city is the Perlan Museum and Observation Deck. You could also wander towards the sea and see the Harpa Concert Hall, an award-winning cultural center made from over 700 glass panels.

You can add some activities to your free day if you crave adventure. 

If you travel in September or October, you can explore the inside of a volcano. The now dormant Thrihnukagigur caldera is your window to another world. The interior of this magma chamber is filled with color and geological history.

You could also choose to go whale watching from the old harbor in Reykjavik. A boat will take you into the natural habitat of these gentle giants, and you might even get an enchanting glimpse at some of the unique birdlife off the coast of Reykjavik. 

Some marine animals frequently seen here include humpback whales and white-beaked dolphins.

Meanwhile, if you still need to visit the Blue Lagoon geothermal spa, today provides the perfect chance to enjoy a soak in its relaxing waters. If you choose to add this activity, a transfer is provided.

After a day of adventure, you will return to your accommodation in Reykjavik for the night.

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Day 3
Moss-covered lava fields at Thingvellir National Park, one part of the famous Golden Circle route.

Day 3 - The Golden Circle Sightseeing Route

On day three of your winter vacation in Iceland, you get to experience one of Iceland's most popular sightseeing routes, the Golden Circle. This scenic route spans around 190 miles (300 kilometers) and is home to three of the most visited attractions in the country.

You will start your day with a journey to Thingvellir National Park. This UNESCO site is not only home to some breathtaking scenery but is also the site of the world's oldest parliament, Althing. 

One of the most exciting aspects of Thingvellir National Park is that it is the place where two tectonic plates meet. Here, you can explore the rift valley and canyon separating the Eurasian and the North American tectonic plates. 

Stunning geological formations and vibrant vegetation surround you.

Next to visit is the Geysir geothermal area in the Haukadalur Valley. This area is a fascinating visual representation of Iceland's geothermal and volcanic history. While exploring the field, you'll see steam vents, fumaroles, and hot springs.

The main attraction of the valley is a geyser called Strokkur, which forces a massive jet of hot water out of the ground every five to ten minutes. This burst can rise to around 66 feet (20 meters) in the air.

The impressive Gullfoss waterfall is the last destination on the Golden Circle sightseeing route. Its name means Golden Falls.

Gullfoss waterfall's rapid waters cascade down a 105-foot (32-meter) drop into a narrow canyon of the Hvita River. The dramatic fall of water creates an incredible mist that reflects rainbows on a sunny day. 

While in the area, you can choose from multiple viewing options to admire and photograph its beauty.

At the end of the day, you will retire to your accommodation in the Golden Circle area near the town of Hella. You'll have an excellent chance to see the northern lights if the skies are clear.

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Day 4
The midnight sun illuminating the sky above Seljalandsfoss waterfall on the South Coast.

Day 4 - The South Coast

On day four of your winter vacation package, your small group will take a trip along the stunning South Coast of Iceland. 

The South Coast is a scenic region near Reykjavik known for its stunning natural landscapes. Waterfalls, glaciers, coastal areas, and black-sand beaches will welcome you here.

Your first stop for the day will be Seljalandsfoss waterfall, an incredibly tall and majestic waterfall. Its location and unique beauty make it a top-rated stop, even in winter. 

Seljalandsfoss waterfall features a staggering drop of approximately 197 feet (60 meters). Besides its stunning water curtain, the waterfall is unique because you can view it from behind and from different angles. 

A small cave goes behind Seljalandsfoss waterfall's cascade, where travelers can walk.

The next stop is Skogafoss waterfall, one of Iceland's largest waterfalls with a 197-foot (60-meter) cliff height, the same as Seljalandsfoss waterfall. 

The waters drop onto an almost flat platform, which creates a magnificent spray. Sometimes, the mist created by the Skogafoss waterfall gives off a double rainbow.

You can go on a glacier hike in Solheimajokull glacier for an exciting addition to your day. This tour is included in the price of the package. Solheimajokull Glacier is an outlet glacier on the South Coast with crevasses, ice walls, and rugged terrain fit for thrill-seekers.

You can experience the thrill of standing on top of an ice sheet with glistening colors of blues and whites beneath you. The views from the top of a glacier are an experience few get to witness.

An expert guide will accompany you on the glacier hiking experience to ensure your safety and enjoyment. 

Your final stop of the day is the famous Reynisfjara black sand beach, one of the most fascinating places in Iceland. The black sand is a reminder of Iceland's volcanic past and present.

You will rest at your accommodation in South Iceland at the end of your day.

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Day 5
Icebergs floating on the serene Jokulsarlon glacier lagoon in the summertime.

Day 5 - Jokusarlon Glacier Lagoon

The fifth day of your winter vacation package in Iceland includes an ice cave adventure and a trip to the Jokulsarlon glacier lagoon. 

The day starts with ice caving. The location of the ice cave will depend on what month you are traveling in.

In September or October, you will visit an ice cave at Myrdalsjokull Glacier, the glacier on top of the Katla volcano. Myrdalsjokull Glacier is the fourth-largest glacier in Iceland and is known for its spectacular landscapes and ice formations.

If you are here from November to March, it will be near Vatnajokull Glacier, the largest glacier in Europe. The Vatnajokull glacier covers at least 10% of Iceland’s total landmass.

Ice caves are naturally forming, each one unique. Every experience of an ice cave is different as the ice caves freeze and melt with the passing of seasons.

Deep inside this ice cave, you will see a fascinating contrast of ice walls mixed with ashy black streaks running through like veins. An expert guide leads your trip, telling you more about the composition and history of the winter attraction.

You will then visit a place known as the ‘Crown Jewel’ of Iceland, the Jokulsarlon glacier lagoon.

This vast lagoon is filled with ice-cold water, and icebergs drift and reform here as they slowly head out to sea. Visitors will see giant icebergs floating in Jokulsarlon glacier lagoon’s waters that almost glow in shades of blue and white. 

Seals have also been spotted in the area, swimming and sunning themselves on the ice.

Yow will be able to follow the icebergs as they meet the sea. The area where they enter the ocean is a black sand beach. 

The whites and blues of ice against the dark backdrop give the beach a jeweled appearance, which is why this area has been affectionately named ‘Diamond Beach.’

You will spend the night near this area in South Iceland, giving you plenty of time to hunt the skies for the northern lights.

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Day 6
A house on the banks of Lake Lagarfljot in East Iceland during winter.

Day 6 - Eastfjords

On day six of this winter trip in Iceland, you will head to the Eastfjords, an area of serene beauty and diverse wildlife.

This area in the land of fire and ice is mainly untouched because of its remote location. The region provides a haven for various native birds and other animals. It’s also the only place in Iceland where you can spot wild reindeer.

Traveling throughout the Eastfjords, you will glimpse some spectacular views of the coast and the Atlantic Ocean.

You will pass through the many small fishing villages comprising the Eastfjords. These places are a fascinating snapshot of how important the sea was to Icelanders in the past. 

These towns are rich in culture and history, allowing you to learn more about Iceland’s past.

You will also travel alongside a lake that is said to be home to a mythical monster. Lake Lagarfljot hides a mysterious worm-like monster in its depths. The best way to describe this elusive mythical creature would be to call it the Loch Ness Monster of Iceland.

Besides sightseeing, you can add a unique animal encounter to your day to make it more exciting.

You can add a horse-riding tour. The Icelandic horse is known worldwide for its small, sturdy frame and pleasant nature. Nothing can compare to seeing the Icelandic countryside on horseback, and the Icelandic horse is perfectly adapted to this rugged terrain.

Another option is to finish the day by heading to the Vok Baths, a spa and wellness center that harnesses natural geothermally heated water to create a soothing and relaxing experience. Even in winter, these outdoor baths are hot, relaxing, and healing.

If the sky is clear, you might also be treated to a show of the aurora borealis while you soak.

You will spend your night in one of the towns in the Eastfjords.

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Day 7
A steaming hot spring found in a geothermal area near Lake Myvatn.

Day 7 - The Lake Myvatn Area

The seventh day of your winter vacation in Iceland takes you to the Lake Myvatn area of Iceland.

The country is known for its rich geological and volcanic history, and you'll find out more today.

From Egilsstadir town in the Eastfjords, your guide will take you northward to explore a region called Myvatn before heading to Akureyri, the capital of North Iceland.

The Myvatn area landscape is filled with unique scenery. The region's main attraction is the lake of the same name, famous for its rich birdlife, pseudocraters, and other geological features.

Unlike most lakes in Iceland, Lake Myvatn is unusually shallow, only reaching a maximum depth of around 13 feet (4 meters). During winter, the area transforms into a snowy wonderland that is breathtaking to experience up close.

The area around the lake is brimming with geothermal activity. You will see bubbling mud pools and rock formations made from lava and feel the power of the heat coming from the earth.

You will visit the Namaskard Pass, an area of high geothermal activity. Here you will see steam rising from the ground as the earth boils. The reds and oranges of the landscape make the space seem more like Mars than anywhere on the planet.

You will then travel to the Dimmuborgir lava field, an area of mystic beauty. This geological attraction boasts lava pillars and cliffs, which almost form a rock labyrinth. 

Dimmuborgir lava field is believed to be the home of elves, trolls, and the 13 Icelandic Santas known as the Yule Lads. You'll learn more about this local folklore from your tour guide.

You will then head to Iceland's unofficial capital of the north, Akureyri. Before you arrive, you will visit the stunning natural feature, Godafoss waterfall, known as "Waterfall of the Gods," where you can snap a few photos for your social media.

You'll spend the night in comfortable accommodation nearby.

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Day 8
The mighty Hvitserkur rockstack.

Day 8 - Akureyri, Hauganes & Hvitserkur Rock Stack

On your eighth day in Iceland, you'll explore Akureyri before heading north to discover more villages and geographical features.

Your first stop is Akureyri to explore this picturesque coastal town. Before the guide takes you on a drive further north, you can visit its excellent shops, restaurants, and cultural attractions.

From Akureyri, you will head towards the scenic village of Hauganes, located on Iceland's longest fjord, Eyjafjordur. The fjord, spanning around 47 miles (70 kilometers), is surrounded by snow-capped mountains, rugged cliffs, and lush valleys.

While you are free to explore Hauganes village, a whale-watching tour is included in the price of this package. This wildlife tour offers an opportunity for an up close and personal experience with Iceland's gentle giants. 

As the boat sets sail, you'll cruise along the stunning coastline of North Iceland, with its dramatic cliffs and picturesque fjords. 

The guides will share fascinating insights about the local geography, wildlife, and conservation efforts, providing a deeper understanding of the area's natural wonders.

As you venture further into the ocean, keep your eyes peeled for the magnificent creatures that call these waters home. 

Eyjafjordur is renowned for its abundant marine life, and there's a high chance of encountering various species of whales, including humpback whales, minke whales, and white-beaked dolphins.

While admiring and photographing these curious creatures, the guide will tell you exciting trivia and stories about them. Your guide will tell you about their surfacing behaviors, migration patterns, and ways to protect them.

After your time in the Eyjafjordur region, you will head west, stopping on the way to appreciate the towering rock stack, Hvitserkur.

Hvitserkur rock formation is also known as "White Shirt" in Icelandic, thanks to the abundance of guano covering this natural structure. 

Many travelers and locals claim the rock stack resembles a troll, while others consider it a dragon or elephant leaning down to drink from the ocean.

You will then head back to Iceland's capital, Reykjavik, where you will spend the night.

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Day 9
A snow-covered park in Reykjavik during winter.

Day 9 - Free Day in Reykjavik

Day nine of this winter package in Iceland is your last full day in Reykjavik. After a week of exploring the beautiful countryside, now is a chance to revisit the city.

There’s an almost endless list of things to do in Reykjavik, which means that you can take a day to do some sightseeing, or you can choose to add some final adventures to your Icelandic experience.

For example, you could join a day tour of the incredibly captivating Snaefellsnes peninsula. This charming region contains most of the variety of landscapes available in Iceland. 

Rugged mountains, black sand beaches, ice caps, and volcanic fields are all present in this small corner of the country, which has led to the Snaefellsnes peninsula being nicknamed ‘Iceland in miniature.’ 

The peninsula’s namesake, the Snaefellsjokull Glacier volcano, towers over the area at around 4,744 feet (1,446 meters).

You can decide to see Iceland from a completely different perspective on a snorkeling tour. In this incredible experience, you will dive into the underwater world between two continents in the Silfra fissure in the Thingvellir National Park. Snorkeling participants need to be comfortable in the water and be able to swim.

The area where the Eurasian and North American tectonic plates meet is filled with crystal-clear waters. A snorkeling tour here reveals underwater mountains with incredible visibility and geological formations unique to the land of fire and ice.

If you are here in September or October and haven’t already done it, you can use this day to visit the inside of a volcano.

You’ll finish your day by retiring to your accommodation in Reykjavik. If the skies are clear, you should look to the sky for more aurora borealis hunting. Day nine is your last night in Iceland, so you should take advantage of this time to hunt for the northern lights.

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Day 10
Reykjavik during winter, seen from across the bank of the river.

Day 10 - Departure

Day ten of your winter vacation is your final day in Iceland. Although your trip is ending, there is still some time to get some last glimpses of the incredible sights of Reykjavík.

Before you depart, stroll down the high street of Reykjavik, Laugavegur. Laugavegur Street is the perfect place to find those last-minute souvenirs of your time in Iceland.

This vibrant area has different shops, boutiques, and specialty stores.

Downtown Reykjavik is also a place immersed in coffee and food culture. Many incredible restaurants and cafes throughout the city boast fantastic food paired with a cozy atmosphere.

While in the area, don’t miss your chance to sample some iconic Icelandic snacks and dishes. For example, one famous snack you can try is the pylsur or Icelandic hot dog. Many hot dog stands are in the city, but the most famous is Baejarins Beztu.

Unlike other hot dogs worldwide, the Icelandic pylsur is unique because of its lamb, pork, and beef blend. There are also different choices for toppings, such as fried onions, mustard, and special remoulade sauce.

For those who have a later flight and choose to visit the Blue Lagoon geothermal spa today, you will finish your stay unwinding before heading to the airport. 

The Blue Lagoon geothermal spa is the perfect place to relax as you bathe in the warm, mineral-rich waters while looking back on the incredible adventure you have just taken in the land of fire and ice. 

When you are ready to say goodbye to this incredible country, you will take a bus to the Keflavik International Airport. You’ll drop your baggage and check-in for your flight. You can do some last-minute shopping or grab a drink at the airport.

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What to bring

Warm, waterproof clothing
Good outdoor shoes
Camera
Reusable water bottle
Snacks
Swimsuit and towel

Good to know

The Northern Lights are a natural phenomenon and therefore cannot be guaranteed, but this itinerary is designed to maximize your chances to see them if the weather allows. Please be aware that your itinerary may have to be rearranged to better fit your arrival date and time.

Some optional activities might need a valid driver's license, or you might need to send additional information to your travel planner.

Those who opt to go snorkeling must be comfortable in the water and able to swim, and must present medical documents before snorkeling or diving.

It can happen, in the case of extreme weather, that an activity is canceled. If your chosen activity is canceled, we will assist you with rearranging or booking other activities when possible, and any potential price difference will be refunded to you.

Note that Icelandic roads and pavements can be slippery in the wintertime. We recommend you bring shoes with slip-resistant soles or ice-grip shoe covers. The covers can be purchased in most supermarkets and gas stations around the country.

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Accommodation in Reykjavik

See our accommodation levels below and our preferred accommodation partners under each day in the daily itinerary. Super budget level accommodations will be arranged in hostel dorm beds. For budget and comfort levels, bookings for one person will be arranged in single rooms, and bookings for two or more people will share a twin/double or triple room(s). For quality level, odd number groups will always be allocated a single room. If you are travelling in a group, but prefer a single room, please make separate bookings. Teenagers and children will be arranged in the same room with parents. If additional room(s) is needed, additional costs will incur.

For multi-day guided tours, accommodation cannot be upgraded and the levels below do not apply. Guide to Iceland will provide you with the best available accommodation at the time of your booking from our preferred partners. If our preferred partners are fully booked at the time of your booking, we will find another suitable accommodation for you of similar level.

We always do our best to accommodate special requests, which may incur additional costs. Press choose a date to find availability.

Super Budget

Dormitory beds with shared bathrooms in guesthouses or hostels, such as HI Hostels. Located in the capital region. Breakfast is not included.

Budget

Private rooms with shared bathroom in guesthouses or hostels such as Capital Inn Guesthouse. Located in the capital region. Breakfast is not included.

Comfort

Rooms with a private bathroom at three-star hotels such as Hótel Klettur, or quality guesthouses. Located in the city center or in close vicinity. Breakfast is included.

Quality

Rooms at four-star design hotels in the city center with a private bathroom at the absolute best locations downtown such as Hotel Alda. Breakfast is included.

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