9-Day Northern Lights Winter Vacation Package in Iceland with a Guided Ring Road Minibus Tour

Day two of your winter package is the beginning of your 6-day Ring Road tour. Your guide picks you up from your accommodation in Reykjavik, and you head east to explore some of Iceland’s most famous natural sights. Today combines the Golden Circle with some gems of the South Coast.

Your day starts at Thingvellir National Park, a wide valley filled with history and nature. This is where Iceland’s first parliament was founded more than 1,000 years ago. It is also the place where the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates slowly move apart. Your guide explains both the history and the geology of this stunning place.

The journey continues to the Geysir Geothermal Area in the Haukadalur Valley. Steam rises from the ground, and hot water bubbles just below the surface. Strokkur Geyser erupts every few minutes, sending water high into the air and giving you a close look at Iceland’s geothermal power.

Another Golden Circle highlight is Gullfoss Waterfall. Here, the glacial Hvita River rushes over two wide steps into a deep canyon. The sound is powerful, and the views from the paths are impressive. This is one of Iceland’s most loved waterfalls.

After the Golden Circle, the scenery begins to change as you travel along the South Coast. Following a lunch stop, you reach Seljalandsfoss Waterfall and Skogafoss Waterfall.

Your final stop of the day is Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach. The black volcanic sand, tall basalt columns, and powerful ocean waves create a dramatic coastline. Just offshore, you can see the Reynisdrangar Sea Stacks rising from the sea.

As the day comes to an end, you travel to your hotel in the South Coast area. It is a good place to relax after a full day of sightseeing along the Ring Road. You might get a glimpse of the beautiful northern lights while here, so be on the lookout.

On day three of your Ring Road tour, you'll continue exploring along the South Coast and towards the east. Prepare yourself by bundling up in your warmest jacket and ensuring your camera is ready. Today promises a wealth of remarkable sights and places to explore, an ice cave included. 

The first stop of the day is the village of Vik, a small coastal settlement backed by cliffs and wide stretches of black sand. During your visit, you can explore the surrounding coastline and view the Reynisdrangar Sea Stacks rising from the Atlantic Ocean.

After your time in Vik, the journey continues to Fjadrargljufur Canyon. This long, curving canyon was shaped by melting glacier water over thousands of years. A short walk along the edge gives you amazing views of steep cliffs and a narrow river far below.

Later in the day, you head out for a special ice cave adventure at the Crystal Ice Cave in Vatnajokull. This experience is included in your tour. 

Inside the cave, the ice glows in deep blue colors, with dark lines of volcanic ash frozen inside. It feels like stepping into another world.

All safety gear is provided, and your guide leads the way through the cave. There is plenty of time to take photos and enjoy the shapes and colors of the ice. 

This activity is suitable for most travelers. Wearing waterproof clothes and strong shoes will help you stay comfortable.

The day continues with a visit to Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon. Large icebergs float slowly across the calm water, changing shape and color as they move. Seals are often seen swimming between the ice, adding to the peaceful feeling of the place.

Just across the road is Diamond Beach. Here, pieces of ice wash up onto the black sand and shine like crystals. It is one of the best places in Iceland for photos, especially when the light hits the ice just right.

At the end of the day, you travel onward to your hotel in Hofn, a quiet seaside town. After a full day of glaciers, ice, and wild landscapes, this is the perfect place to relax and take in everything you have seen along Iceland’s South Coast.

Day four of your Iceland winter tour takes you deep into East Iceland, a calm and less crowded part of the country. This region is known for quiet fjords, curving coastal roads, and wide views where mountains meet the sea.

After breakfast, your tour guide takes you on a journey along the eastern coastline. Steep hills rise beside the road, and small villages appear as you follow the edge of the fjords. 

Your first stop is Djupivogur, a small fishing village with a slow and relaxed feel. Surrounded by water and mountains, it is a lovely place to stretch your legs. You can walk along the harbor, watch the fishing boats, and enjoy the fresh sea air. 

Your guide may also show you the Eggin i Gledivik artwork, a row of stone eggs that represent the local birdlife famous in the area.

The route then leads inland toward Egilsstadir, the main town of East Iceland. Located near the Lagarfljot River, it is where you stop for lunch and a short rest. Nearby, you can see the edges of Hallormsstadaskogur Forest, the largest forest in the country.

Later in the day, the scenery changes again as you head toward Borgarfjordur Eystri. This remote fjord is known for its quiet paths, open views, and strong feeling of untouched nature. This area is especially peaceful in the winter. 

To end the day on a relaxing note, you have the option to visit Vok Baths. Floating on Lake Urridavatn near Egilsstadir, these warm geothermal pools are especially nice on cold winter days. The calm water and lake views make it a perfect place to slow down and unwind.

In the evening, you return to Egilsstadir and settle into your hotel for the night. Savor the quiet beauty of East Iceland as you prepare for the continuation of your Ring Road tour tomorrow.

Day five brings you into North Iceland, where the scenery feels very different from the rest of the Ring Road. This part of the journey follows sections of the Diamond Circle and is known for powerful waterfalls, volcanic ground, lava formations, and calm lake views.

After breakfast, you continue your exploration along the Ring Road and up north. Open plains give way to rugged terrain, and signs of volcanic activity become more common.

One of the day’s first highlights is Studlagil Canyon. Tall basalt columns rise along the river, creating a striking natural scene. Your guide explains how this canyon was hidden for many years and only became visible after a nearby hydroelectric project lowered the water level in 2009.

The scenery grows even more dramatic as you approach Dettifoss Waterfall. Known as the most powerful waterfall in Europe, Dettifoss sends huge amounts of water crashing into a deep canyon. 

You can feel the force of the Jokulsa a Fjollum River beneath your feet as your guide leads you to safe viewing areas, especially important during winter conditions.

Volcanic energy is on full display at Namaskard Geothermal Area. Steam rises from the ground, mud pools bubble, and the earth glows with shades of red, yellow, and orange. Wooden paths guide you through the area while your guide explains how heat from below the surface shapes this active landscape.

The journey continues into Dimmuborgir, a large lava field filled with strange rock formations, arches, and caves. The shapes feel almost unreal, and local stories link this area to elves and trolls. Walking through the lava formations feels like stepping into a natural maze.

A calmer stop follows at Skutustadagigar, where you see pseudocraters formed by steam explosions long ago. An easy walking path offers open views across Lake Myvatn, one of North Iceland’s most important natural areas.

To cap the day off, you visit Godafoss, the “Waterfall of the Gods.” Its wide, curved shape and strong flow make it one of the most beautiful waterfalls in the north. Your guide shares the history behind its name, connecting the site to an important moment in Iceland’s past.

The day ends in Akureyri. With its cozy harbor, small cafes, and relaxed feel, it is a great place to unwind after a full day of exploring. You settle in for the night, ready for the next chapter of your winter Ring Road tour.

After breakfast, Day 6 of your small-group Iceland winter tour begins in Akureyri, a cozy town set between mountains and the calm waters of Eyjafjordur Fjord. One of the morning highlights is the option to join a guided whale-watching tour straight from the harbor.

Eyjafjordur Fjord is one of the best whale-watching areas in Iceland thanks to its protected waters. As you head out onto the fjord, keep watching the surface of the sea. Humpback whales and minke whales are often seen here, and dolphins sometimes swim close to the boats, adding to the excitement.

Back on land, there is time to enjoy lunch in Akureyri. The town has several local cafes where you can relax before continuing the journey west along the Ring Road.

As you leave Akureyri, the scenery slowly opens up. The coastal views give way to wide valleys as you enter Skagafjordur, a region known for its horse farms, open farmland, and strong Icelandic traditions.

A meaningful stop along the way is Glaumbaer, one of Iceland’s best-preserved turf farms. The grass-covered buildings show how families once lived through long winters. Inside, the low ceilings and thick turf walls tell the story of daily life in the past.

Not far from there, Borgarvirki rises above the surrounding plains. This natural rock formation was once used in defense. From the top, you can take in wide views of the countryside and understand why this location was important.

As the route continues, the coastline comes back into view on the Vatnsnes Peninsula. Here, you stop at Hvitserkur, a large sea stack standing just offshore. Wind and waves have shaped it into a unique form, making it one of North Iceland’s most photographed natural landmarks.

Before reaching your hotel, you visit Kolugljufur Canyon. Named after the legendary giantess Kola, this narrow gorge is carved by the Kolufoss Waterfalls rushing through it. Viewing platforms make it easy to enjoy the dramatic scenery from above.

The day ends in the small village of Laugarbakki. After checking into your accommodation, you can relax and enjoy the quiet surroundings. On clear nights, this area offers a good chance to spot the northern lights dancing across the sky, a perfect way to end another unforgettable day in Iceland.

As your adventure comes to an end, it's time to pack your bags and prepare for the journey back home. Ensure you leave ample time to catch your complimentary shuttle ride to the airport, allowing for a smooth departure.

For those who have a later flight and choose to visit the Blue Lagoon today, you'll finish your stay unwinding before heading to the airport. This is the perfect place to relax as you bathe in the warm, mineral-rich waters and look back on the incredible adventure you have just had.

If you have a much later flight, consider further exploring the city of Reykjavik, where you'll find more activities and attractions to fill your remaining time.

Dive into the city's rich history by visiting the Settlement Exhibition, which showcases the archaeological remains of a Viking-age longhouse. Wander around the Old Harbor and breathe in the fresh sea air, all while watching ships come and go. Don't miss Tjornin, the city's central pond, where you can feed the ducks and enjoy a serene view.

For those who love art, the Einar Jonsson Museum and Reykjavik Art Museum hold impressive collections of Icelandic visual art. Before you leave, stroll down Laugavegur, the main shopping street, to grab souvenirs or to taste local delicacies at one of its many cafes and restaurants.

You'll head to the airport in plenty of time for your flight home. As you depart from the shores of Iceland, know that you've witnessed the magnificent beauty of the Icelandic winter in all its glory. The memories you've made and the stunning photographs you've captured will serve as timeless reminders of this extraordinary experience.

We hope you have a safe and comfortable journey home. Remember, you're always welcome to return to Iceland to create new memories and embark on further adventures. Until we meet again, farewell, and may your travels be filled with joy and wonder.