One-Week Northern Lights Winter Package with Ice Caving & National Parks

On day two of your eight-day Icelandic adventure, get ready to explore the breathtaking sights of the Golden Circle.

Your day begins by meeting your expert local guide and the rest of the group, ready to embark on today’s journey. 

The first stop is Thingvellir National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Iceland's three national parks. Here, you’ll discover the historical significance of the park, where the world’s first parliament was founded in the 10th century. You’ll also encounter Viking-era booths and assembly structures scattered throughout the grounds. The park boasts stunning natural beauty, including Thingvallavatn, Iceland’s largest natural lake.

Thingvellir is also home to the Silfra Fissure, a deep crevasse filled with crystal-clear water from an underground river. Situated between the Eurasian and North American tectonic plates, it offers a unique opportunity to witness geological activity up close. 

For a truly memorable experience, you can add a snorkeling excursion in the Silfra fissure. Be sure you’re comfortable in the water and able to swim to fully enjoy this amazing adventure.

After exploring Thingvellir, you’ll continue along the Golden Circle sightseeing route with a visit to the Geysir in the Haukadalur Valley. Geysir is the geothermal hot spring after which all geysers are named, though it’s now dormant. Nearby, however, you’ll find Strokkur, an active geyser that erupts every five to 10 minutes. The area also features steam vents, fumaroles, and mud holes—each bubbling with geothermal energy.

The day’s final stop is the magnificent Gullfoss Waterfall, a powerful cascade fed by glacial meltwater. Stand near the viewing platforms and feel the spray as the water bursts through the winter ice, creating an unforgettable scene.

For those seeking a bit more excitement, consider adding a snowmobiling tour. From the Gullfoss parking lot, you’ll head to Langjokull Glacier, where you can zoom across the ice cap at high speeds.

Alternatively, you can opt for a horseback riding tour, where you’ll ride Icelandic horses, known for their gentle nature and unique gait, through scenic countryside trails, taking in the spectacular views.

After an action-packed day, you’ll return to Reykjavik, where you will have the chance to spot the northern lights as you drive back.

You’ll spend the night in your cozy hotel in downtown Reykjavik, ready to rest and recharge for the adventures ahead.

On day 4 of your one-week adventure, you have the chance to explore a natural ice cave in Vatnajokull and witness the stunning landscape of the Jokulsarlon glacier lagoon before heading back to Reykjavik.

If you opt for the ice-caving tour today, you’ll rejoin your group after breakfast for an exciting ride in a Super Jeep, a modified vehicle designed for off-roading across Iceland's rugged terrain. The ride will take you towards the glacier, where the real adventure begins.

From the parking area, there’s a short hike to the ice cave, so make sure to wear sturdy hiking boots that cover your ankles to stay dry and secure on the icy terrain.

Each year, ice cave specialists search the glaciers to find caves that are safe for exploration. Since glaciers constantly melt and refreeze, the ice cave layouts can change quickly, ensuring that each visit offers a completely unique experience.

This winter season, two incredible ice caves have been discovered within Vatnajokull: the Western Ice Cave and the Eastern Ice Cave. Your expert guide will take you to the best available cave for the day, considering weather and visibility conditions to ensure you get the most out of this incredible glacier adventure.

Inside the ice cave, marvel at the magnificent crystal-blue ice, lace-like frosts, and stunning ice sculptures. Take in the beauty of the spiky icicles hanging from the cave's ceiling. You’ll have around 45 minutes to explore, take photos, and immerse yourself in the magical atmosphere.

After the ice cave, you’ll head back to the Jokulsarlon glacier lagoon to see the landscape in a new light before traveling back along the South Coast to Reykjavik.

If the northern lights appear in the sky as you travel, your driver will stop for a chance to admire the aurora borealis and capture the moment with photos. Watching the vibrant colors twinkle across the Icelandic sky is an unforgettable experience.

Arriving in Reykjavik in the evening, you’ll have time to enjoy a quick dinner in the city center before returning to your accommodation for the night.

On day six of your eight-day Icelandic adventure, you’ll explore the captivating highlights of West Iceland.

If you stayed on the Snaefellsnes Peninsula the previous day, you’ll begin with a visit to Mount Kirkjufell and the nearby Kirkjufellsfoss waterfall. Fans of Game of Thrones will recognize Kirkjufell as 'the mountain shaped like an arrowhead' north of the Wall. It’s a strikingly unique landmark, offering incredible photo opportunities.

From here, you’ll journey off the peninsula into the heart of West Iceland, stopping at the charming town of Borgarnes. Here, you can enjoy spectacular views over Borgarfjordur, one of the region’s most picturesque fjords.

Next, you’ll visit two iconic waterfalls: Hraunfossar and Barnafoss. These waterfalls are located just a short walk apart but are visually distinct. Hraunfossar is a series of serene waterfalls streaming from rivulets in a lava field, while Barnafoss is faster and more powerful.

Another highlight of your day is the Deildartunguhver hot spring, Europe’s highest-flowing hot spring. The geothermal energy here heats many homes in West Iceland. You can explore the wooden walkways that allow for safe viewing, but be sure to stay a safe distance from the water — it’s a scorching 207 F (97 C), making it far too hot to swim.

Your journey continues inland to the historic village of Reykholt, once home to Snorri Sturluson, a notable figure of the Icelandic Middle Ages. Sturluson was a politician, poet, chieftain, and possibly the author of the Prose Edda, which remains a vital source for understanding Norse mythology and religion.

After a full day of exploration, your driver will take you back to Reykjavik. You’ll have time to unwind and enjoy the city’s vibrant nightlife at a local pub or head back to your accommodation to relax after a fascinating day.