9 Day Northern Lights Winter Tour of the Total Iceland Experience with Ice Caving & the Blue Lagoon

Today kicks off your two-day journey along Iceland’s stunning South Coast, packed with incredible sights. You’ll be picked up early, so dress warmly and be ready for the day’s adventure.

First on your list of attractions to visit is Seljalandsfoss, a tall, graceful waterfall that cascades from a cliff, hiding a cave behind its misty curtain. You can walk behind the waterfall and enjoy the view, but mind your steps, the rocks can be slippery with ice in the winter! 

Next stop is Skogafoss, one of the most popular waterfalls in Iceland. This one is even bigger than Seljalandsfoss and is the last in a long row of impressive waterfalls that cascade down from the infamous Eyjafjallajokull Volcano on the South Coast.

Eyjafjallajokull is a glacier with a volcano underneath the ice cap. In 2010, European air travel was shut down for several days because of its eruption.

After exploring these waterfalls, you’ll continue to Reynisfjara, a striking black sand beach with dramatic rock formations and crashing waves. The rocks at Reynisdrangar, beyond the coast, stand strong against unpredictable Atlantic Ocean waves. 

This beach is breathtaking but also dangerous due to unpredictable waves. With that said, be careful while taking photos as sudden waves can be powerful. It is advised to keep a safe distance from the shore.

After lunch, you’ll head east, passing vast black sand plains formed by a massive volcanic eruption. This area is home to one of the biggest pseudo-crater collections in the world. You'll see the impressive Vatnajokull glacier right next to these enormous sand plains.

Finally, you’ll reach Jokulsarlon glacier lagoon, where icebergs float gracefully in the calm, blue waters. The lagoon is stunning in low light, the floating ice sparkling in shades of gold. When an iceberg has just tumbled into the lagoon, you'll be able to see the gorgeous deep blue color of the ice. 

To finish off the day with even more spectacular sights, you'll go hunting for northern lights in the evening if the sky is clear. 

Tonight, you’ll stay in a cozy country hotel in Southeast Iceland.

Today, you’ll start a two-day journey through the Snaefellsnes peninsula, often called 'Iceland in miniature' for its diverse landscapes.

After pickup, your first stop is Ytri-Tunga, a scenic beach known for its playful seal colony. In winter, the beach feels peaceful, making it the perfect spot to stand on the rocky shore and take in the endless ocean views.

Next, venture to Raudafellsgja, a captivating fissure nestled on the eastern side of Mt. Botnsfjall. This natural wonder is fed by a nearby stream, nurturing an array of vibrant plant life. 

In summer, the moss-covered walls of the fissure create a lush, green landscape. In the winter, however, the imposing cliff walls are adorned with glistening ice and snow, adding an ethereal touch to the landscape.

Next, you'll pass through two historic fishing villages, each with its own coastal charm. A one-hour leisurely stroll awaits you at Hellnar, where picturesque cliffs invite exploration and offer awe-inspiring views of the surrounding natural wonders.

Then, you'll go to Snaefellsjokull National Park, where for a small additional fee, you have the option of another experience deep in the caves. This time, a lava cave formed more than 7,000 years ago, Vatnshellir.

Next, you’ll visit Djupalonssandur and Dritvik, two dramatic coastal spots shaped by the forces of nature. Take in the rugged coastal views, feel the sea breeze, and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.

End the day with a hike to Londrangar, a striking black basalt formation towering 230 feet (70 meters) above the coast. Stand in awe of the dramatic silhouette against the sky and absorb the grandeur of this natural masterpiece.

You'll retire in a cozy country hotel for the night in West Iceland.

Today is yours to explore Reykjavik, whether on your own or by joining one of many available tours.

Animal lovers can take a whale-watching tour from Reykjavik harbor aboard a well-equipped vessel with indoor seating and great views. Despite taking this tour in winter, you can still see minke whales, dolphins, porpoises, seals, and seabirds. For your comfort, the vessel has warm overalls and seasickness tablets standing by.

Alternatively, take a horseback riding tour around the outskirts of Reykjavik. Icelandic horses, known for their small size and friendly nature, offer a great way to explore the landscape.

Another adventure activity is a snorkeling tour in Thingvellir National Park. This experience is conducted in Silfra fissure, where crystal-clear water streams between two tectonic plates. This location is regarded as one of the world's best underwater sites, and you'll be protected from the cold by wearing a dry suit.

Buggy and ATV tours are great options if you prefer land-based adventures. ATV tours offer a more hands-on, adrenaline-filled experience with smaller vehicles suited for rugged terrain. Buggy tours provide a smoother, group-friendly ride in larger, stable vehicles, ideal for scenic exploration. The difference is intensity versus comfort.

You can also take to the skies today by booking a flightseeing tour. Whether you choose a helicopter or a plane, you'll get stunning aerial views of Iceland. One of these helicopter tours even includes a spa visit.

Speaking of spas, you can also visit the Sky Lagoon in Reykjavik today. Relax in the geothermal infinity pool, admiring the ocean views, and take the revitalizing seven-step ritual.

Other Reykjavik activities today include a visit to the Whales of Iceland exhibit, the Wonder of Iceland museum at Perlan, the virtual FlyOver Iceland experience, or the Lava Show. You can also book a Reykjavik City Card for free or discounted entry to museums and pools around the capital or take a walking tour to get to know the city better.

Those eager for a full-day tour can book a Golden Circle trip or a super jeep trip to Landmannalaugar. The Golden Circle has three of Iceland's most famous sites: Thingvellir National Park, the Geysir geothermal area, and Gullfoss waterfall.

Landmannalaugar is a spectacular highland reserve with natural geothermal springs and unbelievable landscapes.

In the evening, you can choose between a range of northern lights tours. One of these is conducted on a super jeep, allowing you to reach more distant, less crowded viewing areas, while another is conducted on a boat, providing a unique experience. A classic northern lights tour also includes professional photos to capture the experience.

No matter what you choose, you'll have a great day before settling in for the night in Reykjavik.

Use your free day to explore Reykjavik and discover what makes this city special. Wander through the charming streets and discover plenty of small businesses and quirky shops that cater to a variety of interests. 

Try local cheeses and baked goods, or browse Icelandic wool crafts, books, and volcanic jewelry as souvenirs of your trip. Keep an eye out for the Little Christmas Shop (Litla Jolabudin) on the main shopping street, a whimsical establishment that celebrates the holiday spirit year-round.

Reykjavik has plenty of great restaurants, so you’ll never run out of dining options. Try the fresh seafood, tender lamb, and rich Icelandic coffee at the city’s many restaurants and cafes.

Also for today, you can explore at your own pace, from the Harpa Concert Hall by the Old Harbour to the towering Hallgrimskirkja church, where you can enjoy panoramic city views. Pop inside Reykjavík's City Hall to see a large 3D map of Iceland and get tips from the traveler information center about live music in the evening.

You may also want to visit various theatres, art galleries, or museums that showcase Iceland's vibrant art community. Explore Iceland’s art, history, and culture through its galleries, museums, and theaters.

At night, once again, you may book an extra bus tour to view the northern lights. The northern lights can be unpredictable, so booking another tour increases your chances of seeing them. With another night spent in Reykjavik, savor the anticipation of possible encounters with this natural phenomenon.