Small-Group 6-Day Guided Tour of Iceland’s Ring Road and Snaefellsnes with Transfer from Reykjavik

On the second day of your Icelandic experience, you'll continue your journey eastward along the Ring Road, exploring the captivating wonders of South and East Iceland.

The day begins with a visit to the mesmerizing Jokulsarlon glacier lagoon, the crown jewel of Iceland. Massive icebergs gracefully float in the crystal-clear waters, creating a tranquil atmosphere.

Enjoy a sense of calm as you watch the icebergs float on the lagoon.

Next to the lagoon is Diamond Beach, named for the glistening icebergs that wash ashore and resemble precious stones.

Stroll along the black-sand beach and see the icebergs sparkling like diamonds under the Icelandic sun. It's a sight that photographers and nature enthusiasts alike will cherish.

There's an optional amphibious boat tour on the lagoon for those seeking an extra thrill. While it comes at an additional cost, the experience of getting up close to the icebergs is one-of-a-kind and well worth it.

Next on your itinerary is Vestrahorn mountain, a dramatic and photogenic landmark featured in many travel magazines. The jagged peaks of Vestrahorn mountain stand tall against the backdrop of the Atlantic Ocean, offering an opportunity for stunning photographs.

Continuing eastward, you'll explore the southern tip of the East Fjords region. This is the least-visited region in Iceland, but it's also one of the most traditional. Your guide will tell you about the area's history as you walk along the coastline at Djupivogur village.

From here, you'll move on to the town of Egilsstadir, East Iceland's largest settlement. If you want to relax after a busy couple of days, you can add a visit to the Vok geothermal baths. These beautiful hot springs provide an excellent opportunity to unwind and rejuvenate amidst breathtaking Icelandic landscapes. Their lakeside location offers spectacular views.

You'll check in at your comfortable accommodation and enjoy a good night's rest before the excitement continues tomorrow.

On the third day of your Ring Road tour of Iceland, you'll explore the Lake Myvatn geothermal area.

After a good night's sleep at your East Iceland accommodation, you'll reboard the minibus and continue your drive around the Ring Road, heading into North Iceland.

It's another scenic route through Iceland's enchanting landscapes, and you can stay connected onboard the bus thanks to its free Wi-Fi and USB charging ports.

Your first stop is the Studlagil canyon, renowned for its striking basalt columns and serene turquoise river. This natural wonder, often less crowded than other attractions in Iceland, offers a peaceful and breathtaking start to your day.

The focus of day three is exploring the captivating Lake Myvatn geothermal area. Take a leisurely walk through this geothermal area, where bubbling mud pots and steaming hot springs contribute to the colorful landscape.

The lake itself is also a sight to behold, with tranquil waters that mirror the surrounding beauty. Keep your eyes peeled for the various birds that call this area home. It's a haven for birdwatchers.

As your driver takes you through North Iceland, you'll have the chance to see some of the region's most impressive waterfalls. The Dettifoss waterfall is Europe's most powerful cascade, a force of nature that will leave you in awe of its thunderous flow.

The nearby Selfoss waterfall is more delicate. Seeing the contrast between these waterfalls as you snap photos and enjoy the views is fascinating.

You'll also visit the Godafoss waterfall, the "waterfall of the gods." Your guide will tell you about the historical significance of this beautiful waterfall during your trip.

After a busy day exploring the highlights of the Lake Myvatn geothermal area, you'll head up to Akureyri, Iceland's second-largest settlement and the capital of North Iceland. It's a charming town with picturesque streets and plenty of good-quality restaurants.

You'll also have the opportunity to add a visit to the Forest Lagoon geothermal spa to your itinerary. It's an excellent way to unwind after a few days of sightseeing. As the day draws to a close, you'll check into your accommodation in downtown Akureyri.

On day four of your Icelandic tour, you wake up in Akureyri, the vibrant 'Capital of North Iceland.' 

This morning offers a delightful opportunity to explore Akureyri's charm. Wander through its colorful streets, lined with quaint houses, and visit the iconic Akureyri Church, perched on a hill overlooking the city. You can also stroll along the picturesque waterfront, taking in the serene views of the fjord. 

The city's botanical garden, a lush oasis boasting a unique collection of Arctic plants, is a must-visit. You'll also find cozy cafes and local artisan shops, perfect for a leisurely morning.

For those who crave an adventure, an optional whale-watching boat excursion awaits. Departing from Akureyri harbor, this 3-hour journey takes you into the heart of Iceland's majestic marine life. As you sail through the waters, keep your eyes peeled for whales, dolphins, and seabirds in their natural habitat. This experience offers breathtaking wildlife sightings and stunning views of the surrounding mountains and coastline.

After returning to land, your Ring Road journey continues. Your next destination is the charming village of Varmahlid, nestled in a scenic valley. Here, you'll visit a remarkable turf church, an exquisite example of Iceland's traditional architecture, harmoniously blending with the natural landscape. 

As the day progresses, you'll go to the striking Hvitserkur rock formation. Rising starkly from the sea floor, the rock looks like a massive creature coming out of the ocean. This unique landmark is mysterious and awe-inspiring, perfect for capturing gorgeous photographs.

The adventure continues as you explore the Kolugljufur canyon, a hidden gem with cascading waterfalls and lush green surroundings. Take a moment to appreciate the serenity of this tranquil canyon, a stark contrast to the rugged landscapes you've encountered in previous days.

In the late afternoon or early evening, you'll start the journey south and westward, driving into the scenic area of West Iceland. Comfortable accommodation awaits you in the town of Borgarnes. It's a strategic location that will help maximize your sightseeing time tomorrow.

As you settle into your hotel, you'll reflect on the incredible wildlife encounters, natural formations, and cultural experiences that have already made this tour a truly memorable and enriching experience.

As you wake up in Borgarnes on the fifth day of your multi-day tour in Iceland, you'll embark on a day exploring the natural wonders in the captivating region of West Iceland.

The sights you'll visit today are sometimes called the Silver Circle sightseeing route. You'll learn more about Iceland's rich cultural heritage, explore quaint villages, and discover the historical significance of this region. The area played a pivotal role in the country's settlement and development, and your guide can tell you more about it today.

After breakfast at your accommodation in Borgarnes, you'll visit several waterfalls. The first, Glanni, is a pretty cascade in the middle of a lava field. Many fish, including salmon, swim in the river waters here. You might see them swimming up the waterfall's three tiers.

Next on your itinerary are the stunning Hraunfossar waterfalls, a unique natural phenomenon where clear, cold springs emerge from beneath a lava field, creating a picturesque cascade of water that seems to flow from nowhere. 

Nearby, you'll also discover Barnafoss waterfall, a powerful waterfall known for its dramatic and turbulent waters. It's fascinating to see the difference between these falls and compare them with other cascades you've encountered on the tour.

Deildartunguhver, your next stop, is Europe's most powerful hot spring. Witness the immense steam and boiling water gushing from the earth's depths, demonstrating the geothermal forces that shape Iceland's landscapes. Your guide will tell you more about the importance of geothermal power in Iceland — Deildartunguhver produces energy that heats local homes.

For many, the day's highlight is an expedition inside the Vidgelmir lava tunnel. Explore the hidden world beneath the surface on this fantastic underground adventure. You'll gain a unique perspective on the geological formations that make Iceland extraordinary.

After a busy day of exploration, you'll board the bus back to the Icelandic capital for your last night of accommodation. 

On day six, you’ll explore Snaefellsjokull National Park, often called “Iceland in Miniature,” because it showcases the country’s most iconic landscapes in one stunning but compact region. This area features towering coastal mountains, a glacier-capped volcano, black-sand beaches, rushing rivers, and cascading waterfalls.

Watching over you this day is the crown jewel of the peninsula: Snaefellsjokull Glacier. This amazing, cone-shaped glacier-capped mountain has inspired artists for centuries and was the setting for Jules Verne's “A Journey to the Centre of the Earth.” This 6-day Ring Road tour gives you the chance to see this glacier’s peak as it dominates the landscape, glistening in the sunlight.

The first stop is Ytri-Tunga, a beach near an abandoned farm home to a thriving seal colony. If you haven’t yet spotted any seals, this is a great place to see them lounging on the rocks, basking in the sun without a care in the world. The stunning view of Snaefellsjokull Glacier adds an element of magic to your seal-watching experience.

Afterward, head to Budakirkja, the famous black church. It’s a highlight of any journey through the Snaefellsnes Peninsula. Built in the 19th century by a determined local woman, this small timber church stands out with its striking black color against the surrounding landscape. It has become a popular wedding venue despite initial resistance from church authorities.

From there, you’ll continue along the coast to the beautiful villages of Arnarstapi and Hellnar. At Arnarstapi, you’ll discover the natural Gatklettur, or "Rock with a Hole," an impressive sea arch made of lava rock, offering dramatic views of the surrounding cliffs and the wild Atlantic Ocean. You’ll also explore the lava bridge here, another fascinating geological feature.

A short drive takes you to the Londrangar Basalt Columns, towering 230-foot (70-meter) high formations that rise from the sea. These majestic columns serve as an important nesting site for puffins and other seabirds, offering excellent wildlife viewing opportunities, particularly in the summer months.

Make your way to the striking Djupalonssandur Black Pebble Beach. Here, you’ll find four large, smooth stones known as the lifting stones, once used by fishermen to test their strength before heading out to sea. Your guide will explain the history behind each stone, and you’ll have the chance to try your hand at lifting them.

Our next stop is Ingjaldshólskirkja, built in 1903 and known for combining history, scenery, and local storytelling. The long-standing claim that Christopher Columbus visited the area adds depth to the experience. From the elevated location, there are expansive views of the ocean, mountains, and glacier.

The last stop of the day is Kirkjufell Mountain. It beautifully rises from the green landscape and is surrounded by trickling rivers and waterfalls. This is one of Iceland's most popular photography spots, so be sure to get a picture for your collection.

The day's final stop is Kirkjufell Mountain, one of Iceland’s most iconic and photographed mountains. Rising dramatically from the surrounding landscape, it is often likened to a shark’s fin.

It is a popular photography spot, especially with the nearby waterfalls, where you can capture the beauty of the mountain with flowing water at its base. Kirkjufell also gained fame from its appearance in the Game of Thrones series as “Arrowhead Mountain."