9-Day Vacation Package in Iceland with a Guided Tour of the Ring Road

Your second day starts with an accommodation pick-up by your guide, and head east out of the city on day two. Your first stop is Thingvellir National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site where the tectonic plates of Europe and America meet, shaping rugged cliffs and lava-strewn valleys.

You will also visit a family-owned dairy farm called Efstidalur. This site is a great place to take in real Icelandic country life. One of the highlights is Efstidalur’s cozy cafe, where you can enjoy a snack or drink while taking in the peaceful rural landscape. Try their homemade ice cream, made with fresh milk from their own cows—likely the freshest you’ll ever have.

Other must-see stops include the scenic Oxararfoss waterfall and the Silfra fissure, where crystal-clear waters reveal a world between two continents. In this place, Icelanders founded what is now the longest-running democratic parliament in the world, more than a thousand years ago.

Your next stop is the Haukadalur valley, where the Geysir hot spring resides. While this feature is currently inactive, a neighboring geyser, Strokkur, erupts to heights that have been known to exceed 66 ft (20m) every five to ten minutes.

Not far away, the great river Hvita rushes down into a deep canyon in the form of the waterfall Gullfoss. The glacier-fed river crashes down over two tiers, sending mist into the air and creating a dramatic scene for visitors.

End the day with a stay in the Golden Circle area, surrounded by Iceland’s breathtaking landscapes.

You'll hit the road early on day three and follow the southern coastline to Vatnajokull National Park. Along the way, you’ll stop at some of the South Coast’s most breathtaking landscapes. You'll start the day by visiting Seljalandsfoss waterfall, famous for the small cavern found behind its tumbling water. You will then visit Skogafoss waterfall, a wide and stunning cascade fed by the infamous Eyjafjallajokull volcano glacier.

Next, you’ll visit the Dyrholaey Sea Arch, a striking rock formation jutting into the ocean. This rocky promenade stretches out from the mainland of the South Coast into the sea. From here, you’ll have panoramic ocean views framed by black sand beaches, vast plains, and distant mountains.

Next up is the black sand beach of Reynisfjara, where you'll have a spectacular view of the great Reynisdrangar sea stacks, which rise out of the Atlantic Ocean like mighty trolls.

If you’re up for an unforgettable experience, you can explore a naturally formed ice cave. These natural wonders form during glaciers' regular melt and freeze cycles and are as unique as fingerprints. Stepping into one of these icy wonders will leave you with lasting memories.

Your journey for the day ends in the charming coastal village of Vik, where you’ll settle in for the night.

On Day 4, you’ll head to Vatnajokull National Park to visit Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon, often called “Iceland’s Crown Jewel.” Here, massive icebergs break off from the Breidamerkurjokull glacier tongue, drifting through the calm, blue waters in a breathtaking display.

If you arrive between May and August, you can take a boat ride on the lagoon, getting a close-up view of these towering ice formations. A guide will teach you all about the geology and history of the lagoon itself, and if you're very lucky, you may even spot some seals!

After visiting the lagoon, walk over to the nearby Diamond Beach, where glistening icebergs wash up on the black sand. Its name is derived from the fact that icebergs wash up here on their way out to the Atlantic Ocean. This is one of the most beautiful spots in the country for nature enthusiasts and photographers alike.

Today, you will also see Skaftafell Nature Reserve, which sits within Vatnajokull National Park. From here, you will take a glacier hike. You will be suited up with all the things you need on your adventure: helmet, crampons, and an ice ax. With your gear ready, you’ll climb the glacier and take in sweeping views of Iceland’s southern landscapes.

You’ll wrap up the day with a stay in southeast Iceland, surrounded by stunning scenery.

On the fifth day of your journey, you’ll explore the remote Eastfjords, a region of dramatic mountains, winding rivers, and breathtaking scenery. Throughout your trip across the area, your guide will make several stops of their choice based on the preferences of your now well-acquainted group.

A unique stop on today’s route is the charming town of Djupivogur, known for its local art and geology. Here, you’ll find an impressive collection of polished gemstones and minerals sourced from the surrounding area. Auduns Rock Collection attracts people from all over the world.

You will also be introduced to life in the countryside, stopping off at a number of the region's quaint towns and villages. On top of that, you will pay a visit to the hub of the Eastfjords, Egilsstadir.

Near Egilsstadir, you’ll find Iceland’s largest national forest, Hallormsstadaskogar, and the mysterious Lake Lagarfljot. Legends claim that Lake Lagarfljot is home to a mythical creature, with sightings reported for centuries. Similarities can be drawn to Scotland's Loch Ness monster, although the myth at Lake Lagarfljot is far older.

If you elect to do so while booking, you can go horseback riding through the beautiful landscapes of the East today.

You’ll spend the night in Egilsstadir. If time allows, take a dip in the local pool or enjoy a peaceful walk by the water.

The Diamond Circle, a counterpart to the Golden Circle, takes you through the stunning landscapes of Lake Myvatn, where you’ll spend day six exploring.

For a relaxing break before heading off, you can unwind in the soothing geothermal waters of the Vok Baths. This spa facility offers tranquil geothermal waters with incredible views of the surrounding landscape.

Your journey begins at Dettifoss, Europe’s most powerful waterfall, located in Jokulsargljufur Canyon within Vatnajokull National Park. Next, you will make your way to the impressive Asbyrgi Canyon, verdant with vegetation shaped like a horseshoe.

According to legend, Odin’s eight-legged horse, Sleipnir, left this canyon as a footprint when he touched the ground. Once you have enjoyed this fascinating feature, you will move on to the quaint little town of Husavik, prized for its multi-colored houses, an ornate wooden church, and charming harbor.

Afterward, you will traverse the dramatic, moss-covered lava fields that surround Lake Myvatn. This area has high geothermal activity, as you'll note at the Namaskard geothermal area, rich in boiling mud puddles and steaming fumaroles.

Next, you’ll visit Godafoss, a waterfall steeped in history and natural beauty. This spectacular wonder was also the site where Icelanders decided to adopt Christianity over a millennia ago.

Finally, you’ll arrive in Akureyri, the vibrant capital of the north, where you’ll settle in for the night.

Today, you’ll begin your journey back to Reykjavik, bidding farewell to the charming northern town of Akureyri. You will then head to the beautiful Eyjafjordur fjord to the town of Hauganes. It’s an ideal stop to stretch your legs, enjoy a snack, and take in the stunning views.

There will be time to explore the local sights on foot or take part in an optional activity.

The northern waters of Iceland are a prime spot for whale activity, making Hauganes an excellent place for a whale-watching tour. You can board a boat that will take you out into the sea to meet these friendly giants.

You will then head to the mysterious Hvitserkur area. This is home to a rock formation of the same name. Hvitserkur, one of Iceland’s most photographed landmarks, stands just offshore, shrouded in legend. Local tales tell of a troll that stayed out too long and was turned to stone by daylight, becoming the formation standing there today.

As the day winds down, you’ll journey back to Reykjavik, bringing your adventure full circle.