Small Group 6-Day Northern Lights Winter Tour of the Complete Ring Road of Iceland

You will begin the second day of this tour traveling along the scenic South Coast towards Seljalandsfoss waterfall. With a drop of 65 meters, the picturesque Seljalandsfoss makes for incredible photographic opportunities. 

Though you can't usually walk behind Seljalandsfoss waterfall in winter, you can still admire the enormous cavern behind it.

Your next stop is another equally beautiful waterfall, Skogafoss, one of the more powerful falls in the region. Ancient folklore dictates that the first Viking settler that arrived in the area buried treasure in a cave behind the cascading water.

If it is not too wet or icy, you can ascend a set of stairs beside the waterfall for some different views.

Near here, you'll set out on one of the adventures included in the price of this tour: a glacier hike upon Solheimajokull glacier. This exciting opportunity allows you to follow a trained and highly experienced guide across the ice cap's blue crevasses and frozen sculptures. 

As part of this experience, you'll also get to explore Katla ice cave and witness its magical beauty. Ice caves are rare formations and provide a fascinating adventure, so this is a particularly special trip.

Your final stop of the day is Reynisfjara black sand beach which is famous for being enclosed by black basalt columns and widely regarded as one of Iceland's most beautiful locations.

From Reynisfjara, you can look to the Reynisdrangar rock formations, which boldly rise out of the ocean, as well as to the Dyrholaey Peninsula to the west, which features an enormous black lava arch, eroded by the lapping Atlantic Ocean. 

You will then retire to your accommodation for the evening in or near the village of Vik. Vik is a beautiful fishing settlement overlooking the Reynisfjara black sand beach with a quaint church and spectacular surroundings.

Today, you are in for a special treat—a chance to explore an ice cave and embark on a remarkable adventure. Imagine entering a frozen wonderland where nature's magic creates extraordinary formations. 

If you happen to be traveling between April and October, your day will begin with a visit to a cave nestled within the Myrdalsjokull glacier. But if you find yourself in Iceland during any other time of the year, you will have the opportunity to explore a magnificent crystal ice cave within the vast Vatnajokull glacier in the afternoon.

These ice caves are a rare and breathtaking phenomenon, formed naturally each autumn as glacial meltwater freezes into stunning, one-of-a-kind structures. This year’s highlights are the Western Ice Cave, a beautiful blue-colored ice cave in Vatnajokull glacier, and the vast Eastern Ice Cave, located in a more accessible area of the glacier.

As you enter the ice cave, your knowledgeable guide will accompany you, leading the way through these mesmerizing ice formations. They will share their expertise about the glacier, revealing fascinating details and intriguing facts along the journey.

After your ice cave exploration, it's time to venture towards one of Iceland's most iconic treasures—the Jokulsarlon glacier lagoon. You'll board a comfortable boat and witness an awe-inspiring spectacle unfold before your eyes. 

Enormous icebergs, adorned with breathtaking shapes and hues, gracefully float toward the vast sea. From this unique vantage point, you'll experience the beauty of the glacier lagoon up close, allowing you to capture unforgettable moments with your camera.

As your adventure continues, you'll follow the path of the icebergs from the lagoon to Diamond Beach. Here, you’ll see glistening chunks of ice scattered across the black sand, creating a striking and memorable scene.

To make the most of this unique experience, you’ll stay overnight in this remarkable area. As night falls, the surroundings take on a quiet, captivating atmosphere, offering the perfect chance to relax and appreciate the beauty of nature.

On your fourth day of exploration, get ready to discover the wonders of the East Fjords, a region in Iceland known for its incredible variety of wildlife. This area is particularly special because it's the only place in the country where you can catch a glimpse of wild reindeer, majestic creatures that roam freely in their natural habitat.

As you venture through these magnificent fjords, you'll pass by towering mountain ridges, offering breathtaking views of the mighty Vatnajokull glacier to the west. Along the way, you'll come across tranquil fishing villages that provide a glimpse into Iceland's history, culture, and laid-back way of life. These villages offer an excellent opportunity to interact with locals, learn their stories, and immerse yourself in the local traditions.

During your journey, you'll also encounter Hallormsstadaskogur, Iceland's largest forest. This expansive recreational area is a haven for nature lovers, boasting a network of footpaths and trails that lead to various natural treasures, including enchanting waterfalls, captivating moors, and hidden coves. As you navigate through this lush forest, you'll be surrounded by the serene beauty of nature, providing a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

Along the banks of Lake Lagarfljot, an intriguing legend awaits. It is said that a wyrm-like monster resides in the depths of these mysterious waters. Although the existence of the creature remains a mystery, the lake's folklore adds a touch of enchantment to your journey, sparking your imagination and curiosity.

If you're seeking to add an extra dash of excitement to your already thrilling day, you have a couple of options. 

You can choose to embark on a horse riding tour, where you'll have the chance to meet gentle Icelandic horses and explore the picturesque countryside from a unique perspective. 

Alternatively, you can treat yourself to a rejuvenating experience at the Vok baths. These geothermal baths offer a soothing soak in warm, mineral-rich waters, allowing you to unwind while marveling at the stunning landscapes that surround you.

After a day filled with unforgettable experiences, you'll find yourself in a charming town in East Iceland, where you'll spend the night. Take this opportunity to relax, reflect on the day's adventures, and prepare for the wonders that lie ahead as your Icelandic journey continues.
 

You'll spend day five exploring the staggeringly beautiful geothermal region around Lake Myvatn. This area encapsulates everything that makes Iceland truly unique, with its bubbling mud pools, captivating lava formations, and an array of geologically fascinating features.

Before bidding farewell to the east, an exciting opportunity awaits you—exploring the mesmerizing Studlagil Canyon. This awe-inspiring canyon, adorned with towering basalt columns and crystalline blue waters, presents a sight that will leave you breathless. Take your time to wander along its trails, capturing unforgettable photographs that will forever preserve the sheer beauty of this natural wonder.

Next, you'll venture to the Namaskard pass in the north—a geothermal area where the earth reveals its raw power in mesmerizing ways. Here, you can witness the spectacle of boiling, smoking landscapes up close. The striking dark red and orange hues of the surroundings serve as a testament to the diversity found in the Icelandic countryside.

Continuing your journey, you'll arrive at Dimmuborgir, an expanse of lava pillars and cliffs that form an otherworldly labyrinth of unbelievable beauty. These peculiar formations, with their intriguing shapes, have given rise to countless myths and legends. It is believed that this mystical place serves as the abode of mythical creatures like trolls, elves, and the mischievous Icelandic Yule Lads.

As you make your way to Akureyri, where you'll spend the night, be prepared to stop at one of the most magnificent waterfalls in northern Iceland—Godafoss. This waterfall not only captivates with its breathtaking beauty but also holds historical significance. Known as the "Waterfall of the Gods," it played a prominent role in Iceland's conversion to Christianity in the year 1000.

Before retiring to your accommodation for the night, keep an eye on the sky. If the clouds clear, you may be fortunate enough to witness the mesmerizing dance of the Northern Lights. This natural phenomenon, with its vibrant colors illuminating the night sky, is a sight that will leave you in awe.

On your last day, you will make your way from the capital in the North, Akureyri, to Reykjavik, but not without a stop along the way!

You'll head to the little village of Hauganes, located just a short drive from Akureyri. Although the settlement is small, it is a world center for whale watching, and you will have a ticket to set sail in search of Humpback Whales, Minke Whales, Harbour Porpoises, or other gentle giants found in the ocean near the Arctic Circle. 

Once you return to Reykjavik, how you choose to spend the rest of your time is up to you entirely. You could visit the city's museums and art galleries, go on a whale watching tour, try your hand at some shopping in town, or experience Reykjavik's cafe culture. For your convenience, it is not recommended that you book your flight home on the same evening as bad weather and delays could affect your journey.