4-Day Northern Lights, Glacier Walk, & Hot Springs Tour of the Golden Circle and South Coast

Start your second day with a hearty breakfast at Country Hotel Efstidalur, ready for a full day of Icelandic winter adventures. You’ll explore Iceland’s geothermal landscapes, with both guided hiking and snow-filled outdoor experiences included.

Your journey begins with a scenic 35-mile (57-kilometer) drive through rolling hills and Icelandic farmland with distant glacier views. In winter, the countryside appears calm and expansive, with frosted slopes and icy streams visible along the route.

You’ll arrive at Nesjavellir, Iceland’s second-largest geothermal power plant. It produces around 120 megawatts of electricity and over 290 gallons (1,100 liters) of hot water per second, supplying heat to Reykjavik homes.

Depending on conditions, you can either go hiking or snowshoeing in Iceland, led by an expert guide. Hiking follows well-marked trails across frozen lava fields and the Hengill Geothermal Area. The route covers about 5–6 miles (8–10 kilometers) on moderately challenging terrain.

If you’d rather take it easy, snowshoeing comes with all the gear you need. It lets you glide across soft snow, exploring quieter, more remote areas while enjoying Iceland’s winter scenery.

Both hiking and snowshoeing offer winter views of Lake Thingvallavatn and the surrounding geothermal vents. Icy terrain, rising steam, and snow-covered hills form a striking setting that highlights Iceland’s geothermal activity in winter.

A packed lunch is prepared for the day to keep you energized during outdoor activities. After exploring the Golden Circle’s geothermal wonders, return to Country Hotel Efstidalur for a freshly prepared dinner.

The countryside setting offers a quiet place to rest after a full day outdoors in Iceland’s winter landscapes. As night falls, you can step into the hotel’s outdoor hot jacuzzi. Snow-covered fields and frosted surroundings contrast with the warm water, while the lack of city lights creates favorable conditions for northern lights sightings overhead.

Start your third day with a morning meal at Country Hotel Efstidalur before heading out for one of the most exciting days of the tour. A packed lunch is provided for the day to keep you energized during winter outdoor activities in Iceland.

Today, South Coast waterfalls, glaciers, and black sand beaches shape the winter scenery. Travel approximately 87 miles (139 kilometers), passing sweeping lava fields, volcanic plains, and massive ice caps on the horizon.

The main highlight of your Iceland winter adventure begins at Solheimajokull Glacier. A certified glacier guide provides a safety briefing and fits you with all necessary gear. In winter, the Solheimajokull Glacier walk reveals striking blue ice formations shaped by snow and ice.

You trek across solid ice, past deep crevasses and layers of blue, white, and clear ice. The guide explains how glaciers form, how they shift each year, and how nearby volcanoes shape this frozen landscape.

After the glacier experience, continue east to Reynisfjara Beach. In winter, snow-dusted black sands meet white sea foam, while the Reynisdrangar Sea Stacks rise offshore. With guidance from your guide, you can enjoy the views safely, take striking photos, and feel the raw power of the Atlantic Ocean.

On the return journey, stop at Skogafoss Waterfall, one of Iceland’s most iconic falls. Trails are well-maintained, making it easy to admire the waterfall’s power up close. Waterproof layers are recommended, as icy spray can reach nearby paths. Next, stop at Seljalandsfoss, a broad waterfall fed by meltwater from Eyjafjallajokull Glacier.

When conditions allow, you can walk behind the falling water and see it framed by icy edges from a unique vantage point. Return to Country Hotel Efstidalur for a relaxing dinner. The cozy countryside setting provides comfort and a peaceful atmosphere after a full day outdoors.

Later in the evening, step outside for northern lights viewing. When conditions allow, green and purple auroras may appear overhead, and your guide will alert the group if activity is visible.

Your day begins with breakfast at Country Hotel Efstidalur, with time to fuel up before the final winter adventure in Iceland. The calm morning lets you enjoy one last look at Iceland’s quiet countryside before heading back to Reykjavik.

Today ends your 4-day Iceland winter tour with a rewarding mix of hiking and geothermal scenery in Reykjadalur Valley. This final experience is active but unhurried, a chance to reflect on the journey while exploring one of Iceland’s most unique landscapes.

After packing your bags, travel to the greenhouse village of Hveragerdi. Known for its geothermal heat and year-round farming, the town feels warm and lively even in winter.

From Hveragerdi, begin a guided hike into Reykjadalur Valley, an active geothermal area with a hot spring river. The 6.8-mile (11-kilometer) trail is moderately challenging with some steep climbs through snow-dusted hills.

Along the hike, steam rises from the ground, in contrast with the crisp winter air. Snow settles on colorful hillsides while hot springs bubble nearby, offering stunning photo opportunities.

If conditions allow, soak in a naturally heated river after your winter hike in Iceland. The water’s temperature varies as you move upstream, so you can find a level that feels comfortable. Sitting in gently heated water surrounded by valleys and steam is a unique bathing experience in Iceland.

Bathing is optional, and participants who prefer can enjoy the river scenery from the bank. You should be prepared for basic open-air wooden screens for changing. Make sure to bring a swimsuit and a towel for the hot river.

A packed lunch is provided for the day, with energy for the hike and outdoor exploration without the need for extra stops.

After Reykjadalur, begin the drive back to Reykjavik. The landscape slowly changes as steaming hills give way to roads, towns, and city views, a gentle return to urban life after days spent in nature. You can choose an optional drop-off at your Reykjavik accommodation after the tour.

Arriving back in the city marks the end of your 4-day Iceland winter tour. You’ll leave with lasting memories of Iceland’s glaciers, geothermal valleys, waterfalls, and snowy landscapes.