Complete 15-Day Northern Lights Winter Tour of the Ring Road and Snaefellsnes

The stunning Godafoss waterfall blanketed with snow.
Likely to sell out soon
Free cancellation
Perfect travel plan
Fully customizable

Description

Summary

Tour starts
Keflavík Airport
Starting time
Flexible
Duration
15 days
Ending place
Keflavík Airport (KEF), 235 KEFLAVÍKURFLUGVÖLLUR, Reykjanesbær,
Languages
English
Difficulty
Easy
Available
Aug. - Mar.
Minimum age
12 years old

Description

Dive into the wonders of Iceland by joining this 15-day winter tour around the country. On this adventure, you'll be driven around the entire Ring Road, with added stops at the Blue Lagoon geothermal spa, Snaefellnes Peninsula, and Reykjavik, all without worrying about organizing accommodation or driving on icy roads.

Traveling in unfamiliar territory, especially in winter, can be stressful and challenging. You have to research and plan the attractions you want to visit several weeks ahead of time, find hotels to stay at and the extra activities you want to experience.

Fortunately, this top-rated winter tour package takes care of your vacation from the first to the last day. 

This vacation offers 14 nights of accommodation, an eight-day guided tour around the Ring Road, airport transfers, a detailed itinerary, and a personal travel agent you can contact 24/7 for questions or assistance.

In addition, by opting for a vacation package with driver-guides, you can sit back, relax, and enjoy the scenery without worrying about navigating or dealing with road conditions. 

This package tour allows you to fully immerse yourself in the beauty of Iceland, making the most of your vacation.

Amongst the highlights of Iceland on your guided minibus tour are the famous Golden Circle sights and the stunning Jokulsarlon glacier lagoon on the South Coast. 

As you continue circling the island, some notable stops are the charming coastal villages of the remote Eastfjords and the otherworldly Lake Myvatn area in North Iceland.

Besides enjoying the countryside, you will spend a few days exploring Reykjavik, the northernmost capital city in the world. The city is brimming with beautiful cultural landmarks, museums, shops, restaurants, and vibrant streets surrounded by a beautiful bay.

This excursion also includes extra activities to make your experience more exhilarating, such as whale-watching, glacier hiking, and ice caving. 

During the booking process, you can add a wealth of optional tours, including Blue Lagoon geothermal bathing, Silfra snorkeling, and Langjokull ice cave tunnels.

This package is available from September to April, meaning that you will avoid the majority of the crowds that come in the height of summer and have a chance to hunt for the northern lights every night.

In the event of any unexpected adjustments to your travel arrangements, there's no need to be alarmed. You can cancel your booking 24 hours before departure and receive a refund.

Come along on this fantastic 15-day winter journey, where you will travel around Iceland for adventure, serenity, culture, and nature. Check availability now by choosing a date.

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Included

Airport transfer on arrival/departure
7 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)
8 day small group guided minibus tour of the Ring Road of Iceland and Snaefellsnes Peninsula
7 nights of accommodation in various country hotels (breakfast included & private bathroom)
Airport transfer on arrival/departure
Detailed Itinerary
Personal travel agent
Northern lights hunting
Taxes
Glacier hiking tour
Whale watching tour
Ice caving tour

Activities

Glacier Hiking
Snorkelling
Caving
Snowmobile
Super Jeep
Horse Riding
Whale Watching
Sightseeing
Northern lights hunting
Hot Spring Bathing
Cultural Activity
Helicopter
Ice Caving

Daily itinerary

Day 1
Harpa Concert Hall, one of the most defining buildings of Iceland's capital city.

Day 1 - Arrival in Iceland

Today is the first day of your 15-day winter adventure in the land of fire and ice.

On the first day of your Icelandic holiday, you will arrive at Keflavik International Airport and take a bus to your hotel in Reykjavik. Your transfer from the airport to Reykjavik is included in your package.

You could stop at the Blue Lagoon geothermal spa on your way to Iceland's capital city. This world-renowned spa is known for its healing waters, vivid azure colors, and luxurious treatments. 

It is in the middle of a moss-covered lava field, giving it an otherworldly atmosphere. Adding the Blue Lagoon geothermal spa to your itinerary will be arranged according to your flights. 

If there is no time to visit the lagoon today, it can be added to another day. Your travel consultant will be able to arrange this for you. 

There is plenty to see and do in Reykjavik if you have extra free time.

If you choose to add the experience of the Blue Lagoon geothermal spa to your vacation, 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 glass of sparkling wine when dining at the acclaimed LAVA restaurant.

Don’t feel pressured to fit as much as you can into today, as you’ll have plenty of time to explore the city before the end of your vacation. Here, you can unpack, refresh from your travels, and then spend the rest of the day getting to know the capital.

Today, you can stroll down Laugavegur shopping street and explore this strip's many shops, cafés, and restaurants. If not, you can settle in your cozy accommodation in Reykjavik to prepare for tomorrow’s adventures.

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Day 2
A snow-covered park in Reykjavik city.

Day 2 - Blue Lagoon Geothermal Spa & Reykjavik

On day two of your thrilling Icelandic adventure, immerse yourself in the epitome of relaxation at the world-renowned Blue Lagoon Spa. The Blue Lagoon geothermal spa is an ideal start to your vacation, especially if you couldn't visit the geothermal spa the previous day.

Nestled amidst a stunning volcanic landscape, this luxurious resort boasts geothermal pools filled with soothing aquamarine waters that will leave you in awe of nature's wonders. As you step into the lagoon, you'll enjoy its waters rich in minerals like silica.

The Blue Lagoon geothermal spa offers a haven of rejuvenation for every visitor. Pamper yourself in the saunas, steam rooms, relaxation areas, and other state-of-the-art facilities of the geothermal spa.

As part of the experience, the Blue Lagoon geothermal spa allows guests to indulge in the therapeutic benefits of silica mud that are said to have good effects on the skin.

When booking your visit, you will have the option to choose between a morning or afternoon departure. Due to the overwhelming demand for this remarkable attraction, securing an exact time may prove challenging. 

Nevertheless, your dedicated travel planner will do their best to accommodate your preferences and ensure the perfect timing for your unforgettable journey.

Having immersed yourself in the epitome of relaxation, the rest of the day awaits you to explore the captivating city of Reykjavik. 

This vibrant capital city is a harmonious blend of modernity and tradition, with striking contemporary architecture alongside quaint and colorful buildings. 

Stroll through the city's charming streets, and you'll discover various cultural delights, from art galleries showcasing local talent to museums rich with Iceland's fascinating history.

In Reykjavik, let your senses guide you as you savor delectable Icelandic cuisine in charming cafes and restaurants. Take the chance to engage with the warm and welcoming locals who infuse the city with their distinctive charm.

You’ll spend tonight in comfortable accommodation in Reykjavik.

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Day 3
Gullfoss waterfall, on the Golden Circle sightseeing route, is pictured under the northern lights in winter.

Day 3 - The Golden Circle Sightseeing Route

On day three of this winter vacation package in Iceland, you will begin your eight-day journey around the countryside. Your minibus tour will start with visits to the three most popular sites on the Golden Circle route.

The first stop on this trail is Thingvellir National Park, one of the three national parks in Iceland, all of which you will visit on this tour. This location has spectacular geology between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates.

The walls of these plates are visible within the park, and their movements, as they pull apart, have ripped open many ravines that have since filled with spring water. 

Thingvellir National Park's history is as fascinating as its geography, as it was the original location of Iceland's still-ongoing parliament, Althingi, formed in 930 AD.

Geysir geothermal area is the second stop on the Golden Circle sightseeing route. Geysir is a geothermal area named after, as can be presumed, the geysers within it. 

The area's main attraction, the geyser Strokkur, goes off every five to ten minutes, shooting water over 66 feet (20 meters) into the air. 

The surrounding area has many hot springs and fumaroles that can be admired as you wait for an eruption.

Gullfoss waterfall is the final stop on the Golden Circle sightseeing route. Its name translates to 'the Golden Waterfall,' with several theories speculating why. 

Some attribute it to the water's milky hue, which looks golden in the sunset, while others claim it regards a legend about lost treasure.

Either way, the two-step waterfall is beautiful to behold, throwing out rainbows from its mist in the sun and plastering ice over the rocks around it in winter.

You will then spend the night in a country hotel in the area. Watch the sky for a chance to witness the beautiful northern lights in action.

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Day 4
Seljalandsfoss waterfall on the South Coast, pictured here covered in snow.

Day 4 - The South Coast

Day four of your winter vacation in Iceland is the second day of your Ring Road minibus tour. Today, you'll start to explore the South Coast of Iceland. 

This region is one of the most visited locations on the Nordic island because of its beautiful natural sceneries and proximity to the Icelandic capital.

Today's journey will take you past a wealth of natural sites. The first are two waterfalls, Seljalandsfoss Waterfall and Skogafoss Waterfall. The former is narrow, falling from 197 feet (60 meters) over a concave cliff. 

It is possible to fully encircle the falls for some fantastic views of the South Coast in good weather.

Skogafoss waterfall, on the other hand, is more powerful. It is the same height as Seljalandsfoss waterfall but with a width of up to 66 feet (20 meters). The land underneath is very flat, allowing you to walk up to the water curtain. 

On a sunny day, seeing rainbows above its cascade is possible.

These waterfalls sit in the shadows of the Eyjafjallajokull Glacier and Myrdalsjokull Glacier. You can see both in clear weather, and both conceal powerful volcanoes.

You will then take part in a glacier hiking tour on one of the tongues of Myrdalsjokull, Solheimajokull glacier. This adventure will reveal the dramatic landscapes of an ice cap and some incredible views of the surrounding area.

The South Coast has even more attractions a little further along, like Reynisfjara Beach, a beautiful stretch of black sands with views of the dramatic rock pillars Reynisdrangar. 

You will have a fantastic view of the Dyrholaey Cliffs from the beach, home to an enormous rock arch large enough for ships to sail through. A few daring pilots have even flown through it.

You will reside for the night in South Iceland. If the weather forecast is good, you will have an excellent chance to see the aurora borealis.

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Day 5
The ice caves in Southeast Iceland in the depths of winter.

Day 5 - Vatnajokull National Park and Ice Caves

On the fifth day of your winter vacation in Iceland, prepare for a breathtaking journey along the South Coast, culminating near Europe's largest glacier, Vatnajokull. 

This scenic route will lead you into Iceland's largest National Park, aptly named after the majestic glacier it features.

As you embark on this adventure, you'll find yourself driving through vast dark desert sands that define the rugged beauty of the South Coast. As you continue eastward, a mesmerizing sight emerges on the horizon: the dazzling white glacier tongues of Vatnajokull glacier. 

These icy giants stand as a testament to the awe-inspiring forces of nature that have shaped Iceland's landscape over millennia.

Eventually, you'll arrive at one of Iceland's most picturesque and cherished locations, the enchanting Jokulsarlon glacier lagoon.

Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon is a sight to behold, boasting the title of Iceland's largest glacier lagoon and deepest lake. You'll witness a captivating spectacle here as enormous icebergs break free from a nearby glacier tongue and gently glide toward the ocean. 

Keep your eyes peeled, as you may be lucky enough to spot playful seals resting or playing in the icy waters.

Adjacent to the glacier lagoon lies the stunning Diamond Beach. This unique stretch of shoreline showcases icebergs that have washed up on the contrasting black sands, shimmering like precious gemstones under the sun.

If you travel in September or October, the day will begin with a mesmerizing experience as you explore the Katla ice cave in the Myrdalsjokull glacier. The ice cave's ethereal beauty will leave you in awe of the wonders beneath the glacier's surface. 

However, if your visit takes place between November and March, you'll have the chance to conclude your day by delving into the crystal ice caves hidden underneath the vast expanse of the Vatnajokull glacier.

You will end your day with a comfortable sleep in one of the countryside hotels in Southeast Iceland.

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Day 6
Vestrahorn mountain in East Iceland in front of the roaring waves of the Atlantic Ocean.

Day 6 - The Eastfjords

On the sixth day of your winter vacation in Iceland, you will explore one of Iceland's most remote and untouched regions, the Eastfjords.

Sparkling bays, quaint fishing villages, and dramatic mountains define the region. It's also notable for its wealth of wildlife. 

You can see reindeer roaming in herds in this region after running wild in the summer up in the highlands, and you'll see different varieties of seabirds in the waters.

After taking in the marvelous views and stopping for many photo opportunities, you will end the day in the largest town in the east, Egilsstadir. 

This cultural hub sits on the bays of the beautiful lake Lagarfljot, which is said to hold a monster within it, records of which date back further than the Loch Ness monster's.

If you wish to add some adventure to this day of sightseeing, you can join a horseback riding tour. Icelandic horses are adorable, intelligent, curious creatures. Take advantage of this chance to explore the Eastfjords on horseback.

The experienced local guides of this horseback riding tour will share fascinating stories and insights into the area's history and folklore, adding depth to your adventure. 

They will lead you to hidden spots that offer breathtaking views of snow-capped mountains and glaciers, making each moment of the journey a visual feast.

You can also book admission to the Vok Baths. This facility is the only geothermal spa in East Iceland, immersed in a lake and surrounded by mountains.

Vok Baths, tucked away in the serene and pristine landscape of East Iceland, presents an enchanting haven for those seeking an exceptional and revitalizing retreat. 

Positioned on the shores of Lake Urridavatn, this geothermal spa extends a warm invitation to all visitors, enticing them to indulge in the calming embrace of its naturally heated waters.

You will then spend the night in one of the lovely towns of the Eastfjords.

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Day 7
Namaskard Pass is a geothermal area, pictured here in winter under the northern lights.

Day 7 - Lake Myvatn and Akureyri

On day seven of your Icelandic adventure, you'll embark on a captivating journey northwest to explore the extraordinary Lake Myvatn region, a place of unparalleled beauty and geological marvels. This leg of your trip promises an enriching experience that adds depth and diversity to your Icelandic exploration.

Nestled in the heart of North Iceland, Lake Myvatn is one of the country's most renowned and cherished natural treasures.

As you approach Lake Myvatn, the first thing that will strike you is the sheer expanse of the area as the fourth-largest lake in Iceland. Despite its size, the lake is relatively shallow, with an average depth of around 8 feet (2.5 meters). 

Lake Myvatn is a paradise for geologists and nature enthusiasts and a haven for birdlife. The lake's diverse ecosystems provide a sanctuary for various avian species, making it a birdwatcher's paradise.

The area around Lake Myvatn is a geological wonderland shaped by intense volcanic activity. As you explore the region, you'll encounter vast fields of lava and craters, evidence of the area's volcanic history. 

Among the most impressive is the Dimmuborgir lava field, a labyrinth of dark and twisted lava formations often called the "Dark Cities." During winter, a blanket of snow covers the lava field.

Besides its geological and ecological wonders, Lake Myvatn offers numerous opportunities for outdoor activities. Adventurers can take hiking trails that wind through the surrounding landscapes, leading to mesmerizing viewpoints and hidden gems.

Your exploration of the Lake Myvatn region will undoubtedly be a highlight of your Icelandic journey. Its ethereal beauty, rich geological history, and vibrant birdlife will leave you with a deep appreciation for the natural wonders of this extraordinary corner of Iceland.

As the day draws to a close, you'll arrive in the charming town of Akureyri.

You will spend the night in a comfortable accommodation in North Iceland. 

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Day 8
The impressive Hvitserkur rock stack.

Day 8 - Hauganes and Hvitserkur

On the eighth day of your Icelandic winter adventure, you will continue from Iceland's unofficial northern capital to the quaint village of Hauganes, one of the most picturesque settlements in North Iceland.

Starting your eighth day in Akureyri, take the opportunity to explore this charming coastal town. 

Before your guide leads you on a drive further north, take some time to wander through Akureyri's picturesque streets, where you'll discover a delightful array of excellent shops, inviting restaurants, and intriguing cultural attractions.

From Akureyri, your journey will lead you toward the scenic village of Hauganes, nestled on the shores of Eyjafjordur, Iceland's longest fjord. 

This long fjord is surrounded by snowcapped mountains, rugged cliffs, and verdant valleys, creating a postcard-worthy setting at every turn.

While you're free to explore the quaint Hauganes village at your own pace, a thrilling whale-watching tour awaits, included in your package. 

As the boat sets sail, you'll take a breathtaking cruise along North Iceland's striking coastline, with its dramatic cliffs and picturesque fjords. 

During the journey, your knowledgeable guides will share captivating insights into the local geography, wildlife, and conservation efforts, deepening your appreciation for the region's natural wonders.

Venturing further into the vast ocean, watch for the magnificent marine creatures that call these waters home. 

Eyjafjordur is renowned for its rich biodiversity, making it a prime location to spot various whale species, including humpback whales, minke whales, and white-beaked dolphins.

As you marvel at these fascinating creatures and capture them on camera, your guide will regale you with intriguing trivia and stories about their behaviors, migration patterns, and the importance of preserving their habitat.

After your time in the captivating Eyjafjordur region, your journey will take you westward, where you will stop to admire the awe-inspiring rock formation known as Hvitserkur.

Named "White Shirt" in Icelandic due to the abundance of guano covering its surface, Hvitserkur has become a subject of local folklore and imagination. 

Some claim the rock stack resembles a troll, while others envision it as a dragon or an elephant leaning down to drink from the ocean.

You will spend the night in West Iceland.

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Day 9
Two Icelandic horses in the snow during winter.

Day 9 - Snaefellsnes Peninsula

On day nine of your winter tour of Iceland's Ring Road, you will have the opportunity to immerse yourself in the wonders of the Snaefellsnes Peninsula. 

This region is often called 'Iceland in Miniature,' as it has a wide array of sights along its 56-mile (90-kilometer) stretch.

Mount Kirkjufell, a pyramid-shaped peak with a picturesque adjacent waterfall, is the most notable feature of the peninsula. You will stop by this impressive feature to capture its beauty and the nearby waterfall on film.

Pop culture enthusiasts may recognize this beautiful peak from the HBO series Game of Thrones as it was featured as the "Arrowhead Mountain" in one of its episodes.

You will stop at the picturesque Djupalonssandur beach where, after following a path through free-standing lava pillars, you will find a beautiful stretch of shoreline filled with smooth black pebbles and the remains of a trawler that perished in the ocean around 50 years ago.

Snaefellsjokull, the glacier-capped volcano at the peninsula's tip, forms a magnificent backdrop to many surrounding sites. 

This glacier has inspired literature for centuries, most notably in Jules Verne's 'Journey to the Centre of the Earth,' and is now protected within a national park of its name.

If you wish to have an underground adventure, you can tour Vidgelmir Cave, a long lava tube with stunning geological formations and volcanic rocks in West Iceland. 

You'll follow a path that melted lava created thousands of years ago, seeing the strange rock formation and colors it left behind.

You will have the chance to go lava caving in Vidgelmir if you choose to do so while booking. This exciting experience provides a fascinating insight into the volcanism of this beautiful country.

Once again, you will spend the evening in West Iceland, relaxing in hot tubs and looking out for the northern lights above.

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Day 10
The aurora borealis descends from the night sky in Iceland.

Day 10 - West Iceland

On the tenth day of your winter vacation in Iceland, you will set off to further explore West Iceland. You will first drive through the stunning scenery of the Borgarfjordur region, where you'll pass towering mountains, broad valleys, and a few Icelandic horses.

Begin your day's journey at the awe-inspiring hot spring known as Deildartunguhver, a geothermal marvel. It is Europe's most powerful and highest-flowing hot spring, boasting an impressive flow rate of around 380 pints (180 liters) per second. 

This natural wonder is a crucial heat source for towns up to 31 miles (50 kilometers) away, a testament to the immense forces beneath the Earth's surface. 

Your Ring Road adventure then takes you next to the charming village of Reykholt in Borgarfjordur, a place steeped in captivating historical significance. 

Reykholt was once the residence of Snorri Sturluson, a prominent figure from the Middle Ages, celebrated for his contributions as a poet, scholar, chieftain, and writer of Sagas. 

Engage with your knowledgeable guides to delve deeper into the town's rich history, enriching your visit with fascinating tales from the past.

Next on your itinerary are the magnificent waterfalls of Hraunfossar and Barnafoss, two mesmerizing wonders of nature. 

Hraunfossar waterfall presents a magical sight as water seemingly emerges from the ground and gracefully cascades down its cliffs within the encompassing lava field. 

The tranquil beauty of the Hraunfossar waterfall contrasts with its neighboring waterfall, Barnafoss, which showcases a more dramatic scene. 

Barnafoss waterfall rushes down a rugged gorge in a turbulent torrent, often displaying a breathtaking blue hue that adds to its allure.

As you explore the captivating beauty of Barnafoss waterfall, your guide will share the intriguing folklore associated with this enchanting waterfall, immersing you in the mystical atmosphere surrounding it.

Concluding your countryside tour, you'll return to your accommodation in Reykjavik in the evening, reflecting on the day's extraordinary experiences and marveling at the natural wonders that make Iceland a truly exceptional destination.

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Day 11
Snow-capped hills in the Landmannalaugar area in the Highlands.

Day 11 - Exploring Reykjavik and Optional Tours

Day 11 of your vacation in the land of fire and ice will be your first of four consecutive days exploring Reykjavik, the capital of Iceland.

There are many ways to enjoy the city, and you can do the activities and sightseeing you want today. You may want to add more adventure to your holiday, and there are two optional tours you can choose from during the booking process, both at a discounted price.

You could take a helicopter ride over the capital and its surrounding geothermal landscapes. As you will have seen over the past ten days, Iceland's landscapes are spectacular, but to see them from above is a unique experience.

As the helicopter gracefully soars over the city, you'll be mesmerized by the stunning contrast between the vibrant urban life and the rugged Icelandic wilderness that unfolds before you.

The snow-capped mountains and volcanic landscapes stretching beyond the city's limits create a breathtaking panorama that highlights the stark beauty of Reykjavik's natural surroundings.

Your pilot, a seasoned expert familiar with Iceland's terrain, will share captivating stories and insights throughout the tour, adding depth to your experience and providing interesting facts about the city and its history.

Alternatively, you could take a super jeep tour into the Highland region of Landmannalaugar. Its brightly colored rhyolite mountains, stunning hikes, and many bubbling hot springs define this beautiful area.

The Highlands are mostly inaccessible during winter. Specially adapted vehicles or super jeeps are the only vehicles that can access this remote region, making this an excellent opportunity to see even more of the country.

If you would rather spend the day enjoying the city than adventuring, you are more than welcome to do so. The city has a wealth of museums, galleries, swimming pools, and sights to see.

Your day ends with a comfortable night's sleep in cozy accommodation in Reykjavik.

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Day 12
Four people hold hands while snorkeling in the Silfra fissure in the Thingvellir National Park.

Day 12 - Snorkeling and Ice Caving

On day 12 of your winter adventure in Iceland, you have another day in Reykjavik. You can explore the city's charming streets or opt for a tour of the neighboring countryside. Today's tour options are snorkeling and adventuring in the Ice Cave Tunnel.

The snorkeling tour takes place in the Silfra fissure within the Thingvellir National Park, which you visited on day three. Though the water is cold here, it is incredibly clear because it is a natural spring, making the Silfra fissure one of the best snorkeling sites globally.

The Silfra fissure lies on a rift between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates, providing a rare chance to dive or snorkel right where these continents drift apart. Participants need to be comfortable in the water and be able to swim.

It's a humbling experience to know you are moving through this geological marvel, immersing yourself in a constantly evolving landscape.

As you snorkel through the narrow channel of the Silfra fissure, you'll be surrounded by ancient lava rocks, polished to perfection by the constant flow of glacial water. You are provided with protective drysuits, wetsuit hoods, and gloves to make this adventure possible.

The second option for today is ice caving in the second-largest glacier in Iceland, Langjokull Glacier. It is an artificial tunnel carved into the ice cap and the only one in the world that visitors, not just scientists, can explore.

This tunnel is much more reliable than the ice caves, as it is often unaffected by bad weather.

The journey through the tunnel takes you deep into the glacier, and each step brings you further into this icy labyrinth. Along the way, you'll encounter ethereal ice formations, shimmering blue hues, and intricate patterns etched into the ice by the forces of nature.

You are welcome to spend the day in Reykjavik, exploring the many sights this city has to offer. Why not check out the view from the top of Hallgrimskirkja church or the observation deck at Perlan Museum?

In the evening, you'll return to your accommodation in Reykjavik.

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Day 13
A snowy winter's day in Reykjavík.

Day 13 - Reykjavik's Food and Culture Scene

On day 13 of your vacation in Iceland, you'll get to spend more time in Reykjavik, soaking up the local atmosphere and traditions.

Iceland is a nation of beer drinkers, and you can immerse yourself in this side of the culture by taking a beer-tasting tour.

The downtown area in Reykjavik has the best pubs and cafes where you can sample tasty, locally brewed beers. The beer-tasting experience extends beyond the flavors and aromas, as you'll also discover Iceland's unique beer-related customs and traditions.

With the help of a local guide, you'll learn about the brewing process, the carefully selected ingredients, and the unique techniques that go into creating Iceland's finest brews. You will also meet friendly locals to enrich your learning experience.

If you'd rather explore other parts of the culture, visit the Arbaer Open Air Museum to see reconstructed turf houses and learn how Icelandic communities have existed for centuries.

Alternatively, you can visit the maritime museum to learn about Icelandic seafaring from the Viking settlement to the Cold Wars.

If you seek a more unique experience, you can also visit the world's only Phallological Museum near Hlemmur Food Hall in downtown Reykjavik.

While the museum's collection may initially appear humorous, it is underpinned by a genuine scientific and cultural curiosity.

As you move through the museum's displays, you'll encounter anatomical specimens and a variety of phallic-themed artworks, artifacts, and cultural references from around the world.

If you would rather venture out to the countryside, you can add a volcano tour or an ATV adventure in Southwest Iceland during the booking process. These optional activities are for thrill-seekers who want to see more of Iceland's beautiful natural scenery.

Once again, you'll end your day at your accommodation in Reykjavik. You may even see the northern lights brighten the winter skies with the right weather and sky conditions.

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Day 14
A park in the city of Reykjavik covered in snow during winter in the city.

Day 14 - Geothermal Bathing in Reykjavik and the Seltjarnarnes Peninsula

Day 14 of your winter tour of Iceland is your final full day in the country. You can tailor your itinerary today to your desires, making the most of your incredible experiences over the past fortnight.

Whether you wish to indulge in relaxation, seek out urban delights, or immerse yourself in nature's wonders, Reykjavik offers diverse choices to satisfy your preferences.

For those seeking relaxation, Reykjavik's geothermal pools are a perfect option. You can soak in the soothing waters of the city's thermal baths or the local hot springs and let the mineral-rich waters work their magic on your mind and body.

Afterward, stroll along the bustling shopping streets, lined with charming boutiques and souvenir shops, to pick up souvenirs from your Icelandic adventure.

If you love nature, you can explore the enchanting Seltjarnarnes Peninsula. This picturesque area boasts a protected birdwatching site where you can witness various native bird species in their natural habitat.

Marvel at the stunning Grotta lighthouse, perched gracefully at the peninsula's tip, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding coastline.

For art enthusiasts, a visit to Videy Island is an absolute must. This island houses an array of captivating artworks, including the iconic Imagine Peace Tower, created by Yoko Ono. The tower's illuminated beam illuminates the night sky, symbolizing peace and unity.

If you seek an adventurous final day, consider taking a journey to Mount Esjan, which majestically overlooks the city from across the bay.

This scenic mountain is easily accessible by bus, and a rewarding hike to its summit promises breathtaking panoramic views of Reykjavik and its surroundings.

Ensure that the forecast has given good weather to guarantee a memorable and safe hike.

For those still craving more exploration, your travel agent can recommend additional tours and excursions.

You will spend your last night in Iceland at your accommodation in Reykjavik.

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Day 15
The Sun Voyager sculpture on the coast of Reykjavik.

Day 15 - Departure

Today is the end of your 15-day winter adventure and your departure day from Iceland.

If your departure from Reykjavik is scheduled for later, take the opportunity to browse through the wonderful selection of souvenirs along the main shopping street, Laugavegur.

This vibrant street in downtown Reykjavik is a must-visit for last-minute shopping, offering an array of top-rated souvenir shops, specialty stores, and charming boutiques.

No matter your budget, you'll find various items in this area.

For a delightful culinary experience, explore the numerous restaurants and cafes scattered along Laugavegur Street and its neighboring streets.

Sample some local dishes and take advantage of the chance to savor the famous Icelandic hot dogs from various stalls throughout the city. Among the most renowned hot dog vendors is Baejarins Beztu.

Alternatively, if you prefer a more leisurely day, spend your remaining time in Iceland discovering the city's iconic landmarks and cultural attractions.

One of the most prominent landmarks is the Hallgrimskirkja church, an awe-inspiring structure towering over the city center. As Iceland's tallest and most famous church, it stands at an impressive height of around 240 feet (74.5 meters).

It features a unique architectural design inspired by the basalt columns of the Svartifoss waterfall in the Skaftafell Nature Reserve.

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.

You will take a bus to the Keflavik International Airport with enough time to get through customs comfortably before boarding your flight home.

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What to bring

Warm and waterproof clothing
Winter hiking boots
Camera
Swim suit
Reusable water bottle
Snacks

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, 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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