Ultimate 10-Day Northern Lights Winter Trip to Iceland's Highlands with Ice Caving

One of the greatest draws of visiting the Iceland is winter is the chance to explore the ice caves under Vatnajokull glacier.
Likely to sell out soon
Free cancellation
Perfect travel plan
Fully customizable

Description

Summary

Tour starts
Keflavík Airport (KEF), Iceland
Starting time
Flexible
Duration
10 days
Ending place
Keflavík Airport (KEF), Iceland
Languages
English
Difficulty
Easy
Available
Sept. - Mar.
Minimum age
8 years old

Description

Experience the best of Iceland during winter with this exciting 10-day vacation package. Travelers who want to see the sights of the South Coast, Golden Circle, Snaefellsnes Peninsula, and Highlands while maximizing their chances of seeing the northern lights will love this adventurous travel package.

Travelers on this top-rated trip can enjoy ten action-packed days in Iceland. You'll receive a detailed itinerary with fun facts and information about each attraction and destination. You won't have to spend time organizing car rental or accommodation — we'll sort out hotel bookings and transportation on your behalf.

Anyone nervous about driving Iceland's challenging roads in winter will love a vacation package like this. You don't need to worry about driving — the expert guides will keep you safe as you navigate the country's best attractions. They'll also give you a local's perspective and teach you everything you need to know about Icelandic history and culture.

You'll also get access to a personal travel agent who can help you with any aspect of your trip. They'll be available by phone or email 24 hours a day, seven days a week. If your plans change, you can even cancel your vacation up to 24 hours before your scheduled departure and get a full refund.

The route will take you to Iceland's most popular attractions. You'll discover the beautiful waterfalls and glaciers of the South Coast, the marvels of the Golden Circle, and the diversity of the Snaefellsnes Peninsula. You'll enjoy excursions into the Highlands, with glacier walks and ice-caving trips included. 

Ice caving is a unique winter adventure in Iceland that lets you hike along a glacier and descend into a cave within the ice cap. You'll get close to the bright blue and white ice and see the bizarre shapes carved out as the ice moves.

Your journey will also take you to the "crown jewel of Iceland," the Jokulsarlon glacial lagoon. You can marvel at enormous icebergs floating in the lake and walk along the jet-black sands of Diamond Beach.

Visiting Iceland in the winter also means you have a good chance of seeing the northern lights. You'll visit remote locations away from light pollution to maximize your chances of spotting the magical aurora borealis. You can also enjoy a northern lights tour from Reykjavik by either bus or boat.

If all this isn't enough, you can add extra day trips to help make your vacation even more special. Go horseback riding through the Icelandic countryside, zoom across a glacier on a snowmobile, or fly up to the Lake Myvatn geothermal area from Reykjavik.

Take advantage of this unforgettable winter adventure to the best attractions in Iceland. Check availability now by choosing a date.

Read more

Included

Airport transfer on arrival and departure
Seven nights of accommodation in Reykjavik (different levels available, with breakfast included for Comfort and Quality levels — more detailed information below)
One night of accommodation in a country hotel in Vatnajokull National Park (breakfast included, with private bathroom depending on availability)
One night of accommodation in a country hotel in the Snaefellsnes Peninsula (breakfast included, with private bathroom depending on availability)
Two-day small-group trip to the Jokulsarlon glacier lagoon with ice-caving adventure
Two-day small-group adventure to the Snaefellsnes Peninsula
Small-group day trip of the Golden Circle
Super Jeep day tour to Landmannalaugar in the Highlands
Super Jeep day tour to Thorsmork Valley
Northern lights hunting tour from Reykjavik
Detailed travel itinerary
Personal travel agent available 24/7
Taxes

Activities

Glacier Hiking
Caving
Super Jeep
Horse Riding
Sightseeing
Boat Trip
Northern lights hunting
Hot Spring Bathing
Cultural Activity
Helicopter
Ice Caving

Daily itinerary

Day 1
The warm waters of the Blue Lagoon make it a perfect place to warm up in winter.

Day 1 - Arrival in Iceland & Blue Lagoon

Let the adventure begin!

After landing at Keflavik International Airport and collecting your luggage, you'll go through the Reykjanes Peninsula toward Reykjavik. Your vacation package includes an airport transfer on your arrival, and you can choose from a shuttle bus or a private transfer.

If you've chosen to add a Blue Lagoon ticket, your travel agent can book your entry for today if you like. This milky-blue hot spring stays warm all year round, and its natural silica mud does wonders for your skin, making it a perfect way to relax after your flight. It's also one of the most famous sights in Iceland — it's a must-see during your time in the land of fire and ice.

If your flight arrives late, your agent will arrange the Blue Lagoon trip for a different day. Instead, you can spend your arrival day exploring Reykjavik, the world's northernmost capital. 

Walk the city's picturesque streets and explore the downtown area. You'll find plenty to keep you busy. Climb the tower of the Hallgrimskirkja church for a sweeping city view, or head to a museum or gallery for a dose of culture. Look out to sea from the Old Harbor, or walk the Laugavegur shopping street and browse the boutiques.

You can spend the evening enjoying a traditional Icelandic meal in one of the city's top restaurants. Don't forget to head to a bar or pub for a drink with the locals after dinner.

Your vacation also includes a free northern lights tour in the evening — you can choose from a boat tour or bus tour when booking your trip. Take a boat from the harbor to see the northern lights dancing over the ocean, or ride the bus into the countryside to watch for the aurora borealis in an idyllic location.

After an exciting first day, you'll spend your first night in Iceland in a cozy hotel in the city center.

Read more
Day 2
A waterfall in Iceland seen at sunset, with pink and orange hues in the sky.

Day 2 - The Golden Circle

Today, you will visit the Golden Circle, one of the most sought-after routes for travelers to Iceland. This group of attractions combines natural wonder with the rich history of Iceland.

A friendly guide will collect you from your accommodation in the morning. You’ll meet the rest of the group taking the trip today before leaving the city behind and heading to a place of enchanting beauty, Thingvellir National Park.

This UNESCO World Heritage Site is the birthplace of the world’s oldest parliament, the Althingi. Your guide will give you an overview of its history as you travel into the park. Once here, you’ll enjoy stunning views of dramatic mountains, waterfalls, lava fields, and valleys.

Thingvellir also sits at the point where the Eurasian and North American tectonic plates are pulling apart.

You can opt to go snorkeling in the Silfra Fissure here, enjoying visibility of up to 330 feet (about 100 meters) through the crystal-clear waters. You’ll receive a dry suit to keep you warm as you participate in this unique excursion. Snorkeling participants need to be comfortable in the water and able to swim.

Next, your group will continue to the Gullfoss waterfall, known in English as the Golden Falls — this is where the Golden Circle gets its name. The two-tiered waterfall is part of the Hvita River, which comes from the Langjokull glacier. Water tumbles 105 feet (about 32 meters) in a dramatic display of nature’s power.

You’ll have time to take plenty of photos from the viewing platform before continuing to the next attraction, the Geysir geothermal area in the Haukadalur Valley. 

Geysir gave its name to all other geysers worldwide, but it’s pretty inactive today. Luckily, the nearby Strokkur geyser erupts every few minutes, shooting hot water up to 66 feet (about 20 meters) into the air.

Other optional excursions today include a horseback riding tour in the Icelandic countryside and a chance to go snowmobiling on a glacier. You can choose which trip to take (if any) when booking — your travel agent will organize everything for you.

After another incredible day, you’ll return to your accommodation in Reykjavik. You can spend the evening sightseeing, eating at a local restaurant, or resting before the adventure continues tomorrow.

Read more
Day 3
The black sands of the Reynisfjara black-sand beach at sunset.

Day 3 - South Coast Day 1

Discover the highlights of the South Coast with a two-day small-group trip out of Reykjavik. 

This morning, you'll leave the city behind you as you travel along a stretch of the Ring Road. You'll spend a night away from Reykjavik, so you need to pack an overnight bag and check out of your room. 

After meeting your group for the next two days, you'll travel through the countryside toward your first stop of the day, the Seljalandsfoss waterfall. On the way, you'll see the famous Eyjafjallajokull glacier. It made headlines in 2010 when the volcano beneath the glacier erupted, halting air travel across Europe due to the enormous ash cloud. 

The Seljalandsfoss waterfall sits at the foot of the glacier, cascading down almost 200 feet (about 60 meters). It's a narrow and gentle waterfall but gorgeous to see. Next, you'll head to the nearby Skogafoss waterfall, which has the same height but is much broader and more powerful. 

You'll then continue your journey along the South Coast, enjoying a view of the mighty Atlantic Ocean on your right. You'll make another stop at the Reynisfjara black-sand beach, one of the best-known beaches in Iceland. It's appeared in several films and TV shows, including Game of Thrones and Star Wars: Rogue One.

Enjoy a walk along the jet-black sands and admire the views of the Reynisdrangar sea stacks — just ensure you don't get too close to the water, as the sneaker waves here can be dangerous. 

After a break, your group will continue along the road, passing through barren lava fields, rolling hills, and magnificent plains until you arrive at the Jokulsarlon glacier lagoon. This deep lake, often called the "crown jewel of Iceland," is the birthplace of many icebergs. You'll see them floating in the water as they shift and change on their journey to sea.

Next to this lagoon is Diamond Beach, where you can get a closer look at the icebergs — many drift onto shore, creating a jewel-like appearance that contrasts beautifully with the volcanic sands.

You'll then retire to your accommodation in Southeast Iceland, just in time to grab some local cuisine for dinner. Remember to look towards the sky in the evening for a chance to catch the northern lights if the conditions are right.

Read more
Day 4
A person standing in an ice cave within a glacier in Iceland.

Day 4 - South Coast Day 2

Journey into a glacier with an incredible ice-caving tour on day two of your small-group trip along the South Coast.

After breakfast at your accommodation, you'll rejoin your group and return to the Jokulsarlon glacier lagoon car park. Here, you'll meet an experienced glacier guide who will take you onto the ice and into an ice cave.

Ice caves form every year as glaciers melt and refreeze, meaning no two are the same — they're as unique as fingerprints. Visiting a glacial cave is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity and one of the most incredible things to do during your trip to Iceland. They're only accessible during the winter months, meaning you'll have the chance to participate in this fantastic experience during your trip.

Your guide will give you the safety gear you need for this expedition, including crampons and a helmet. You'll then set off over the ice to the cave. The guides choose them carefully to ensure they're safe and picturesque.

Once in the cave, you'll see incredible ice walls in blues and whites, with beautiful shapes that look almost like the inside of a cathedral. Your guide will tell you about the formation of the caves as you explore and take photos.

After your ice-caving experience, you'll return to the Jokulsarlon glacier lagoon to catch another glimpse of it and snap a few more photos. It'll now be time to return to Reykjavik, so you'll travel back along the South Coast. If the northern lights appear, your guide will stop at picturesque points along the way, so you'll have some good photo opportunities.

You'll check back into your accommodation in Reykjavik and can spend the evening at your leisure. Enjoy a meal at a traditional Icelandic restaurant or make the most of the city's bustling nightlife by visiting a local bar.

Read more
Day 5
Bathing in a hot spring in Landmannalaugar in winter is a great way to stave off the chill.

Day 5 - Landmannalaugar Super Jeep Day Tour

Head into the Icelandic Highlands with a Super Jeep tour into the Landmannalaugar geothermal area.

Today, you'll travel out of Reykjavik by Super Jeep, a modified 4X4 vehicle designed for off-roading. It's the ideal way of reaching the remote Landmannalaugar area of the Highlands, which is inaccessible to regular vehicles during the winter. 

Landmannalaugar, also known as "the people's pools," is an area in the Highlands of Iceland. It's a popular destination for hikers and marks the end of the Laugavegur hiking trail, one of the country's best-loved routes. 

First, your experienced off-roading guide will take you into the Thjorsadalur Valley, where you'll see the Hjalparfoss waterfall. This twin cascade results from two streams of the Fossa river merging. It's in the middle of a lava field near the Hekla stratovolcano, surrounded by stunning views.

You'll also visit two beautiful lakes today. The first is Ljotipollur, a crater lake that's vibrant red in color, contrasting perfectly with the bright blue waters inside. The second is Frostastadavatn, a popular photography spot.

As you continue traveling in comfort and style, you'll discover the magnificent beauty of the Landmannalaugar area. This part of Iceland's southern Highlands is nestled in the black Laugahraun lava field and is filled with rhyolite mountains. This type of volcanic rock creates a full spectrum of dazzling colors. You'll see shades of green, pink, red, and even golden yellow.

Since this is a popular hiking area, you'll be pleased to know that you'll have the chance to take a short hike on one of the area's main trails. You'll also have time for a relaxing dip in one of the numerous geothermal hot pools — make sure you pack your swimsuit and towel in your backpack today.

Before you head back to Reykjavik, you'll stop at Thjofafoss waterfall in the Domadalur Valley. The comfortable Super Jeep you travel in is one of the only vehicles capable of reaching this destination, and you'll enjoy a fun off-roading ride to get here. 

You'll return to Reykjavik after a busy day. You'll sleep in the same city-center accommodation.

Read more
Day 6
The lorthern lights moving like dancers in the sky above a waterfall.

Day 6 - Thorsmork Super Jeep Day Tour

Explore the Thorsmork Valley mountain ridge with another Super Jeep tour from Reykjavik.

You'll spend today heading into the Valley of Thor, a stunning natural area named after the Norse god of thunder. Situated between three glaciers (Eyjafjallajokull, Myrdalsjokull, and Tindfjallajokull), the valley provides sweeping views of mountains and rivers. You'll have many opportunities to take photos as you explore the stunning landscapes.

You'll start the day by boarding a Super Jeep and traveling out of Reykjavik. It takes about two hours to get to the Thorsmork Valley, but it's a gorgeous journey. 

First, you'll quickly stop at the Seljalandsfoss waterfall, allowing you to get more photos of this natural attraction after your South Coast tour. Your guide will also take you to the nearby Gljufrabui waterfall, which visitors often miss as it's tucked away behind cliffs. 

From here, you'll continue into the Thorsmork Valley, passing through incredible untouched landscapes and dramatic river crossings. The Super Jeep will allow your group to travel through remote zones that are typically inaccessible to travelers in regular cars. 

As you travel through the Highland roads and tracks, you can chat with your guide and learn more about the area you'll visit. Traveling with an Icelander means you'll get a unique insight into Icelandic culture.

When you arrive in the Thorsmork Valley, you'll be blown away by the jaw-dropping views. Towering mountains and glaciers will dominate the landscape around you, and you'll get a closer look when you hike up the Valahnukur mountain. 

The hiking route here begins the longer trek that links the Thorsmork Valley with Landmannalaugar. The two days you'll spend in the Highlands will let you experience the start and end of the longer walk without the time commitment of the entire journey.

After a busy day hiking and soaking in the spectacular views, your guide will take you back to Reykjavik. You can spend the evening as you wish, enjoying dinner and drinks or exploring the city on foot.

You'll return to your downtown accommodation for a good night's sleep before tomorrow's adventure.

Read more
Day 7
Snaefellsnes is a peninsula that stretches 55 miles (about 90 kilometers) from the west of Iceland.

Day 7 - Enter West Iceland

Discover the lava fields, caves, waterfalls, hot springs, and glaciers of West Iceland on the first day of this two-day small-group excursion.

You'll leave Reykjavik and meet the other travelers joining you on this two-day adventure. Your guide will drive your group northbound out of the city until you reach the town of Borgarnes. Along the way, you'll enjoy views of Mount Esja, the mountain overlooking Reykjavik, and will see an abandoned WWII naval base.

The settlement of Borgarnes sits on the Borgarfjordur fjord, where Vikings settled over 1,000 years ago. Your guide will tell you about the settlement of Iceland, and you'll have some time to enjoy the view of the fjord and the coastline. 

From here, you'll drive into the Reykholtsdalur Valley, a geothermal hot spot home to the Deildartunguhver hot spring, one of the most powerful in Europe. You'll explore the hot spring by walking along the wooden walkways, keeping you safe from the hot water.

The geothermal energy here is used to heat the homes in nearby towns. You'll learn about geothermal power and its uses as you explore.

Next, you'll head to the village of Reykholt, the former home of Snorri Sturluson, an important figure in Icelandic culture. Sturluson was a lawmaker, historian, politician, and poet. He's thought to be the author of the Prose Edda, an essential resource for those who study Norse mythology.

The guide will now take your group to two waterfalls near Reykholt, Hraunfossar and Barnafoss. The waterfalls are a short walk from each other but very different in appearance. Hraunfossar trickles down a broad cliff face into a lava field, while Barnafoss is a rapid waterfall with gushing torrents of water.

After a fascinating day exploring West Iceland and learning more about the country's early history, you'll travel to your accommodation. 

Depending on your choice when booking, you'll stay in the village of Borgarnes or on the Snaefellsnes Peninsula, both in West Iceland. Either way, you'll be well-placed to see the northern lights if they appear, so keep your eyes peeled.

Read more
Day 8
Kirkjufell, on the northern edge of the Snaefellsnes Peninsula, has an adjacent waterfall called Kirkjufellsfoss.

Day 8 - Snaefellsnes Peninsula

Enjoy a journey around "Iceland in miniature" with a trip to the best sights of the Snaefellsnes Peninsula.

After breakfast at your accommodation, you'll start your journey along the peninsula's coastal edge. Locals often refer to the Snaefellsnes Peninsula as "Iceland in miniature" due to the variety of landscapes and natural sights within a small area. You'll visit glaciers, waterfalls, volcanoes, mountains, picturesque coastal villages, and black-sand beaches.

You'll start your journey by stopping at the Gerduberg Cliffs, a giant wall of basalt columns formed by volcanic activity. The hexagonal columns formed when hot lava cooled rapidly, creating natural shapes that look to have been carved by hand.

You'll now drive along the peninsula's southern edge until you reach the Ytri-Tunga beach. This beach is unusual for Iceland because it has golden sands instead of the usual black. Your guide will explain why as you walk along the coast. Keep your eye out for seals — this is one of the best locations in Iceland to spot them.

The next stop is the coastal village of Arnarstapi, which is surrounded by basalt cliffs, ravines, and caves. You'll journey along the coastline, enjoying the views and watching the waves of the Atlantic crash into the cliffs below.

Your guide will take you to the Djupalonssandur beach next. The beach is formed of black sands and volcanic pebbles, creating an otherworldly atmosphere. You'll walk through a maze of natural lava pillars to reach the beach and see a shipwrecked fishing boat.

Next, it's time to head into Snaefellsjokull National Park, home to the twin-peaked Snaefellsjokull stratovolcano. This enormous glacier-topped mountain is visible from Reykjavik on a clear day. It served as the entrance to the underworld in Jules Verne's novel Journey to the Center of the Earth

When you've finished exploring the national park, you'll continue your journey along the peninsula's northern coastline. You'll stop at the Kirkjufell mountain (used in Game of Thrones in a scene north of the Wall) and the nearby Kirkjufellsfoss waterfall. The mountain is one of the most photographed spots in the country, so make sure you get a snap here.

After a busy day exploring the Snaefellsnes Peninsula, your guide will take you back to Reykjavik. You'll check into your accommodation in the city center and can spend the evening relaxing.

Read more
Day 9
The Sun Voyager sculpture in Reykjavik at sunset.

Day 9 - Relax in Reykjavik

Spend a day enjoying everything Reykjavik offers with free sightseeing time or optional excursions. This day may fall between other excursions from the city.

Since your accommodation in Reykjavik is in the heart of the city, you can easily explore on foot. 

You'll find plenty of museums and galleries to keep you entertained. Art lovers can visit the National Gallery of Iceland or the Einar Jonsson Museum and Sculpture Garden. You can also find sculptures dotted around the city, such as the Sun Voyager near the Old Harbor.

If you want to learn more about Iceland's geography, the Perlan Museum could be a great choice. It has interactive exhibitions that teach you more about glaciers and volcanoes. It also boasts stunning city views from its observation deck. 

Keen historians might prefer a trip to the Settlement Exhibition, part of the Reykjavik Museum. You'll get a fantastic overview of Iceland's early settlers, who they were, and why they came.

Reykjavik is also home to several swimming pools. Relaxing in a pool is a classic Icelandic pastime, so don't miss your chance to swim a few laps in true Icelandic style. Depending on your travel plans, you could also visit the Blue Lagoon today instead of doing it on your arrival or departure day.

This day also offers excellent possibilities if you need more adventure. If you feel like exploring more of the country, you could join a tour of Lake Myvatn in North Iceland, visiting some of the country's most impressive lava fields and geothermal sites. The add-on includes return flights from Reykjavik Domestic Airport.

If you'd rather stay in the south, you could go on a horseback-riding tour in the Icelandic countryside. Another fantastic option is to visit the ice tunnels in Langjokull glacier in the western highlands.

Whatever you choose, you're sure to have an excellent day. You'll return to your accommodation in Reykjavik for the final night.

Read more
Day 10
The skyline of Reykjavik when clad in its winter coat.

Day 10 - Farewell!

As your Icelandic adventure comes to an end, you have a few options for your last day. 

If you're lucky to have extra time, you can do some last-minute shopping and savor the fresh Nordic air before heading to the airport for your departure.

For those with later flights, consider a visit to the Blue Lagoon. It's a perfect spot to unwind and soak in warm, mineral-rich waters, giving you time to reflect on the amazing journey you've had in the land of fire and ice. It's a soothing experience that will leave you refreshed for your flight home.

If your flight is later in the day, you can explore Reykjavik, Iceland's charming capital. You can visit local shops, enjoy a meal at a cozy cafe, take a leisurely stroll to soak in the city's atmosphere, or do some last-minute shopping.

However, if you have an early flight back home, we wish you a safe and pleasant journey. 

We hope your stay in Iceland was truly wonderful, and we look forward to seeing you again. Perhaps next time, you can visit during the summer and witness the country's beauty in a different season. Safe travels!

Read more

What to bring

Warm, waterproof clothing
Sturdy hiking shoes
Hat, gloves, and scarf
Luggage
Passport
Refillable water bottle
Camera and charger
Swimsuit and towel

Good to know

The northern lights are a natural phenomenon and, therefore, cannot be guaranteed. This itinerary is designed to maximize your chances to see them if the weather allows. In the event of extreme weather, certain activities may be canceled at short notice.

Those who opt to go snorkeling must be comfortable in the water and able to swim and must present medical documents before snorkeling or diving.

If your chosen activity is canceled, you can contact your personal travel agent to help you with rearranging your activity or booking another. Any potential price difference will be refunded to you.

Icelandic roads and pavements can be slippery in the winter. We recommend bringing shoes with slip-resistant soles or ice-grip shoe covers, which you can purchase in many supermarkets and gas stations around Iceland.

Read more

Accommodation in Reykjavik

See our accommodation levels below and our preferred accommodation partners under each day in the daily itinerary. Super budget level accommodations will be arranged in hostel dorm beds. For budget and comfort levels, bookings for one person will be arranged in single rooms, and bookings for two or more people will share a twin/double or triple room(s). For quality level, odd number groups will always be allocated a single room. If you are travelling in a group, but prefer a single room, please make separate bookings. Teenagers and children will be arranged in the same room with parents. If additional room(s) is needed, additional costs will incur.

For multi-day guided tours, accommodation cannot be upgraded and the levels below do not apply. Guide to Iceland will provide you with the best available accommodation at the time of your booking from our preferred partners. If our preferred partners are fully booked at the time of your booking, we will find another suitable accommodation for you of similar level.

We always do our best to accommodate special requests, which may incur additional costs. Press choose a date to find availability.

Super Budget

Dormitory beds with shared bathrooms in guesthouses or hostels, such as HI Hostels. Located in the capital region. Breakfast is not included.

Budget

Private rooms with shared bathroom in guesthouses or hostels such as Capital Inn Guesthouse. Located in the capital region. Breakfast is not included.

Comfort

Rooms with a private bathroom at three-star hotels such as Hótel Klettur, or quality guesthouses. Located in the city center or in close vicinity. Breakfast is included.

Quality

Rooms at four-star design hotels in the city center with a private bathroom at the absolute best locations downtown such as Hotel Alda. Breakfast is included.

Verified reviews

Similar tours

Link to appstore phone
Install Iceland’s biggest travel app

Download Iceland’s biggest travel marketplace to your phone to manage your entire trip in one place

Scan this QR code with your phone camera and press the link that appears to add Iceland’s biggest travel marketplace into your pocket. Enter your phone number or email address to receive an SMS or email with the download link.