Exciting 8-Day Guided Ring Road Small-Group Tour from Reykjavik

On the second day of your eight-day trip around Iceland, you will enjoy a complimentary breakfast before meeting your guide and setting out on your first adventure. Today, you'll see various sites across the Golden Circle and South Coast.

Thingvellir National Park, the Geysir geothermal area, and the Gullfoss waterfall are the destinations on the Golden Circle route.

Thingvellir is between the prominent cliffs of two tectonic plates and boasts magical landscapes and fascinating history. The Geysir geothermal area allows you to marvel over the erupting hot spring of Stokkur, which goes off every five minutes or so. Gullfoss is a magnificent waterfall that originates at the glacier of Langjokull and cascades down two drops.

After marveling over these breathtaking sites, you'll head through volcanic landscapes towards the southeastern shore, where the South Coast portion of today's adventure begins.

The first South Coast attraction is Seljalandsfoss waterfall, one of the most unique in Iceland because you can walk behind the cascading falls into a hidden cavern. Skogafoss waterfall, your next stop, is much more powerful, thundering to the earth with breathtaking force. Both stand around 197 feet (60 meters).

You will likely have enough daylight for summertime tours to visit the world-renowned Reynisfjara black sand beach. This striking beach of black volcanic sand provides impressive views of the ocean and the offshore Reynisdrangar sea stacks.

In winter, you will have the opportunity to hunt for the northern lights as you head to your hotel on the South Coast. Summer means you can enjoy the continued daylight views of Iceland since the midnight sun will illuminate your entire journey.

Once you arrive at your hotel, you will have ample time to get a delicious dinner and explore the area before heading to bed. After a full day of excitement, you will surely get a great night's sleep!

The third day of your trip around the Ring Road of Iceland will allow you to explore the magical attractions of Vatnajokull National Park at the end of the South Coast sightseeing route. You'll also embark on one of two adventures, depending on the season of your arrival.

Today's first significant site you will head to is Skaftafell, a magnificent nature reserve. Surrounded by glacial outlets and jagged mountains and filled with racing rivers, expanses of lava and volcanic ash, and woodland, there are few better places in the world for trekking and photography.

Before the newer Vatnajokull park enveloped it, Skaftafell was a national park in its own right.

In summer, you will take a three-hour glacier hike on one of the ice caps here. You will wear safety gear provided by your guide, and be privy to some of the country's most breathtaking views, alien snowscapes, and unusual, dramatic formations.

The second site you will reach is the Jokulsarlon glacier lagoon. This otherworldly lake has thousands of icebergs cluttering its deep waters, some spectacularly large. Their colors are also striking, with all shades of blue, gleaming whites, and veins of black ash.

You can also find a range of animals such as seals and arctic terns in the area, adding to its already astounding beauty.

If traveling between November and March, you'll board a super jeep and set out on a thrilling ice-caving adventure under the Vatnajokull glacier.

These formations are rare and spectacular, vivid azure and filled with beautiful natural sculptures. The way sunlight refracts and penetrates the walls and ceiling of the cave allows for some fantastic photographic opportunities.

Before continuing to your hotel near the town of Hofn, you'll visit Diamond Beach, which sits beside Jokulsarlon. It is named as such because the icebergs of the lagoon wash up here, glittering like gemstones as they slowly melt away.

In winter, you might see the aurora borealis over one of these natural wonders.

Today, you will embark on an unforgettable journey through the stunning Eastfjords, traveling along winding roads that hug the coastline between towering mountains and the ocean. This remote and scenic route offers dramatic views, including landscapes shaped by landslides and the serene beauty of the fjords. As you make your way through the Hvalnes peninsula, the raw, untouched beauty of East Iceland will leave you in awe.

Your first major stop is Djupivogur, a charming fishing village renowned for its eco-friendly approach and welcoming community. This peaceful settlement is home to Eggin i Gledivik, a striking outdoor sculpture featuring large stone eggs that symbolize the region’s diverse bird species. It’s a perfect spot to stretch your legs, take in the tranquil surroundings, and learn about the area’s unique connection to nature.

Next, you’ll stop in Egilsstadir, the largest town in East Iceland, nestled beside the Lagarfljot river. Known for its picturesque environment, the town is surrounded by lush forests, peaceful lakes, and rolling hills, offering a serene yet vibrant atmosphere. Egilsstadir serves as the cultural and economic hub of the region, making it a convenient stop for travelers.

From Egilsstadir, you’ll venture to the Wilderness Center, an interactive historical site located on the edge of Iceland’s vast, uninhabited highlands. This beautifully restored site, built around old farmhouses, offers a glimpse into the lives of past highland inhabitants. Admission includes access to the center’s fascinating exhibits on highland living, making it an educational and immersive experience.

You’ll stay overnight in rustic accommodations, enjoy meals prepared with locally sourced ingredients, and unwind in the warm pool of a traditional bathing house. If you’re visiting between September and April, ask your guide about the chances of seeing northern lights and head out to spot them!

On the fifth day of your trip around the Ring Road of Iceland, you'll enjoy another delicious complimentary breakfast before setting out on a spectacular journey from the east to the north.

The first attraction on your schedule is the Dettifoss waterfall, one of the main attractions on the Diamond Circle sightseeing route. Dettifoss is Europe's most powerful waterfall, falling from a height of 144 feet (44 meters) with an impressive width of 328 feet (100 meters).

Next, you will head to the Lake Myvatn area. The lakes will be filled with birds and surrounding landscapes covered in verdant moss and wildflowers in summer, while in winter, the waters will be frozen and lands covered in shimmering snow.

In Myvatn, you will visit the Dimmuborgir lava fortress, a mind-blowing expanse of caves and rock stacks created when a volcanic eruption boiled away the lake. The nearby Namaskard geothermal area is sure to amaze, with its barren slopes splashed with vivid colors from the minerals of the hot springs.

It is recommended to organize admission to the Myvatn Nature Baths for this day as you will have several hours to enjoy the healing waters here. Considering your action-packed adventures so far, this is an excellent opportunity to relax and reflect.

If you choose not to enter the baths, you can spend the time sightseeing around the beautiful area.

Your next stop on the Diamond Circle is the Godafoss waterfall. Stunning landscapes surround this natural feature, and you can learn about the fascinating history here by reading the signs dotted around the attraction.

You'll end your day at a hotel near Akureyri, the largest town in North Iceland. In winter, you will hunt for the northern lights should conditions allow, with a better chance of seeing them due to the region's longer hours of darkness, higher latitude, and generally clearer skies.

On the sixth day of your travels around the country, you will head out to explore the incredible landscapes and wildlife of North Iceland.

Your day will start with a drive along the magnificent fjord of Eyjafjordur to the coastal village of Dalvik. This tiny settlement is world-renowned for its incredible whale-watching opportunities, and you will set off on such an adventure from the harbor.

In summer, humpback whales are abundant. You have a good chance of seeing several on your trip, often displaying magnificent surface behavior with breaches and tail slaps. Puffins can also be seen on the water's surface and swooping in the skies throughout this season, as can many other seabirds.

In winter, your trip will focus more on dolphins and porpoises, although you might see some great whales that have not migrated. The views of distant snowy mountains from the water are hard to beat.

Year-round, you have a chance to spot rare creatures such as orcas, belugas, and blue whales. There is no guarantee that these elusive beauties will appear, but keep an eye out, and you may be lucky!

After this memorable trip, you'll continue along Eyjafjordur to visit the lovely settlement of Siglufjordur. This village has spectacular views and a long history as one of the country's fishing capitals.

You will then traverse the magnificent Trollaskagi peninsula, an area of immense mountains, numerous farms, and a low population. It is an excellent example of rural farmland in Iceland.

This part of the country is known for its abundance of Icelandic horses, precious animals famous for their sweet demeanor, intelligence, and unique gait called the Tolt. Most of the farms on the Trollaskagi peninsula are horse farms, and riding is a popular activity here.

You will end your day at a welcoming countryside hotel in the Laugarbakki area. Here you can rest up in preparation for an active day tomorrow.

On the seventh day of your eight-day trip around Iceland, you will journey through magnificent West Iceland as you make your way back to Reykjavik. This region tends to be overlooked by tourists, meaning you will have endless views unspoiled by crowds.

The first stop is the Grabok volcanic crater, where you will hike up to the rim. The panoramic views from the top allow you to marvel over a range of Icelandic scenery and the dramatic consequences of its eruption. Be sure to bring your camera!

After your hike, it is time to visit the highest-flowing hot spring in Europe, Deildartunghver, and marvel over its near-boiling waters. The spring hovers around 207 degrees Fahrenheit (97 degrees Celsius), so it makes sense that this dramatic feature heats homes across the region.

You will then continue to the waterfalls of Hraunfossar and Barnafossar, located near Deildartunguhver. Hraunfossar translates to "lava falls" and is a lovely collection of large and small cascading out of the volcanic rock.

Barnafossar, or "children's fall," has a dark legend surrounding it, supposedly getting its name after two children fell into the water. Sad story aside, it's a stunning location for photos.

Your next stop is the beautiful village of Reykholt, home to a beautiful church and fascinating museum on Snorri Sturluson. This medieval writer and chieftain once lived here and recorded much of what we know about the Old Norse Gods and the lineages of Scandinavian royalty.

He was also a central figure in Iceland's dramatic civil war and submission to the crown of Norway.

On your way back to Reykjavik, you will see the magnificent fjord of Hvalfjordur. In winter, you will hopefully have a fantastic last aurora viewing before arriving in the capital.

Your final day dawns with breakfast at your Reykjavik hotel. Then you are free to spend the day as you please.

You may be tired from your eight days of adventure around the country, so today would be an excellent day for simply wandering through the colorful streets of Reykjavik. Laugavegur street, or Main Street, is best known for its superb shopping opportunities. Be sure to get your souvenirs before heading home!

If you're up to it, you can take numerous day trips or excursions from Reykjavik. A whale-watching tour departing from Reykjavik harbor provides the opportunity to spot some gentle giants, and winter vacations allow you to take a cruise to hunt for the northern lights.

Learn more about Iceland with a visit to one or more of Reykjavik's educational museums. The Reykjavik City Card allows entry to a selection of Reykjavik's museums, galleries, and thermal pools and is a wonderful choice for budget-savvy travelers.

For true relaxation, you might enjoy a visit to the world-famous Blue Lagoon. Many travelers like to visit the spa on their way to the airport since it's about 30 miles (49 kilometers) from Reykjavik and only 13.6 miles (22 kilometers) from Keflavik airport.

The Blue Lagoon is a favorite stop for a good reason. These electric blue waters are temptingly warm and provide unbeatable relaxation opportunities. To treat yourself further, consider booking a massage or spa package.

If you are heading home today, you can say goodbye to Iceland as you make your way to the airport. The 31-mile (50-kilometer) journey between Reykjavik and Keflavik International Airport has scenic views of expansive lava fields and distant mountains, providing some final photo opportunities.

Your incredible eight-day tour of Iceland's Ring Road is complete, and you will have lifelong memories of this beautiful country.