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All you need to know about tours in Iceland
Guide to Iceland proudly offers the largest selection of tours in Iceland at the guaranteed lowest prices, making it easier than ever to plan your dream adventure. From activities like ice cave tours to flexible self-drive tours, our extensive range ensures something for every traveler and budget.
Uniquely, all the tours on Guide to Iceland include free cancellation and a full refund up to 24 hours before departure, providing peace of mind and flexibility for your plans. As the only local travel company in Iceland offering 24/7 service and support, we’re here to assist you anytime, ensuring your trip is seamless and unforgettable. Read on to discover everything you need to know about tours in Iceland, including the best destinations, seasonal activities, and the different types of tours available to suit your travel style.
Tour Types in Iceland
- Day Tours: See the Highlights in a Day
- Guided Multi-Day Tours: Stress-Free Exploration with Experts
- Self-Drive Tours: Freedom to Explore at Your Pace
- Vacation Packages: Hassle-Free Travel with Hotels and Transfers
- Bundle Trips: Great Deals for Packed Itineraries
- Transfers: Mostly Airport to Reykjavik and back
Top Activities in Iceland
Iceland is a land of otherworldly natural wonders and thrilling activities, making it a dream destination for adventurers and nature lovers. Here are the top experiences that make Iceland unforgettable:
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Northern Lights hunting – Witness the spectacular auroras illuminating the Arctic skies during the winter months.
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Ice Caving – Explore mesmerizing natural ice caves within Iceland's glaciers, available exclusively in winter.
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Glacier Hiking – Trek across ancient glaciers like Vatnajokull and Solheimajokull for breathtaking views and a truly unforgettable experience.
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Hot Spring Bathing – Relax in geothermal pools, from the Blue Lagoon to remote natural hot springs like Reykjadalur valley.
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Road Tripping – Discover Iceland's breathtaking landscapes by driving its scenic routes to encounter waterfalls and other natural wonders along the way.
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Silfra Snorkeling – Swim between two tectonic plates in the crystal-clear waters of Thingvellir National Park, one of the world’s top diving sites.
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Volcano tours – Marvel at Iceland’s active volcanoes, lava fields, geothermal hot spots, and volcanic craters, such as those at Landmannalaugar.
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Whale Watching – Spot majestic whales, dolphins, and puffins along Iceland’s coasts in locations like Husavik and Reykjavik.
Regions to Explore
Iceland’s natural wonders are spread across diverse regions, each offering unique attractions and activities:
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Blue Lagoon – A world-renowned geothermal spa, perfect for relaxing in warm, mineral-rich waters.
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Golden Circle – A classic route featuring Thingvellir National Park, the Geysir geothermal area, and the Gullfoss waterfall.
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South Coast – Home to dramatic black sand beaches, glaciers, ice caves, and waterfalls like Seljalandsfoss and Skogafoss.
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Glacier Lagoon (Jokulsarlon) – A breathtaking glacial lagoon filled with floating icebergs and playful seals, adjacent to the sparkling Diamond Beach.
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Ring Road – Iceland’s ultimate road trip, encircling the island and connecting its most famous sights.
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Snaefellsnes Peninsula – Known as “Iceland in Miniature” for its diverse landscapes, including glaciers, lava fields, waterfalls, and coastal cliffs.
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Reykjanes – A dramatic peninsula featuring geothermal wonders, lava fields, and the iconic Bridge Between Continents.
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Westfjords – A remote and rugged region ideal for wildlife spotting, hiking, and experiencing Iceland’s most untouched beauty.
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Westman Islands – A volcanic archipelago with a fascinating history and abundant birdlife, including puffins.
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Highlands – Iceland’s untamed interior, featuring volcanic landscapes, glacial rivers, and stunning hiking trails
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Myvatn – A geothermal wonderland in North Iceland, with hot springs, lava formations, and bubbling mud pools.
Seasonal Travel in Iceland
Iceland transforms dramatically between summer and winter, offering two distinct travel experiences:
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Summer: With nearly 24 hours of daylight, lush green landscapes, and mild weather, summer is ideal for road trips, hiking, and exploring Iceland’s iconic attractions. Rivers swell, waterfalls roar and wildlife such as puffins thrive during this season.
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Winter: Snow-covered landscapes, icy terrains, and the magical northern lights make winter perfect for activities like ice caving, glacier hiking, and aurora hunting. Winter also provides a quieter, more mystical experience of Iceland’s natural beauty.
Best Summer Tours in Iceland
Summer in Iceland is the perfect time for outdoor adventures, with endless daylight and mild weather providing ideal conditions for road trips, hiking, and exploring the country’s most iconic attractions. Whether you prefer self-drive tours or guided day trips, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to experience Iceland’s stunning landscapes and unique activities.
Top Summer Self-Drive Tours
Most visitors in summer choose self-drive tours, which include package discounts, accommodations, and detailed itineraries to guide your journey:
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10-Day Circle of Iceland Self-Drive – Explore every corner of Iceland at your own pace, including glaciers, waterfalls, volcanic landscapes, and black sand beaches.
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2-Week Complete Iceland Self-Drive Adventure – Experience Iceland’s most stunning natural wonders on this epic two-week journey around the entire country.
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One-Week Circle of Iceland Self-Drive Tour – A streamlined itinerary covering all major attractions, from glaciers to geysers, in just one week.
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7-Day Summer Self-Drive Adventure – The ideal one-week tour to explore Iceland’s top highlights during the vibrant summer season.
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One Week South & West Iceland Self-Drive – Discover the best of Iceland’s South Coast and magical West on this slow-paced yet scenic one-week itinerary.
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9-Day Ring Road & Snaefellsnes Self-Drive Tour – Travel the iconic Ring Road and explore the diverse landscapes of Snaefellsnes peninsula in nine unforgettable days.
Best Road Trip Activities in Summer
Most self-drive travelers in summer will enhance their Ring Road adventure with these meet-on-location activities, perfect for those who are driving:
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Jokulsarlon Boat Tour – Sail among towering icebergs at the stunning Jokulsarlon glacier lagoon in Southeast Iceland.
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Glacier Hiking at Skaftafell – Explore Vatnajokull’s icy terrain with a guided glacier hike in Southeast Iceland.
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Katla Ice Cave Tour – Discover a stunning ice cave by the Katla volcano on the South Coast.
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Whale Watching in Husavik – Spot whales Humpback, Minke whales, and more on a boat tour in North Iceland.
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Snorkeling in Silfra – Swim between tectonic plates in crystal-clear waters in Thingvellir National Park.
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Snowmobiling on Langjokull – Ride across Iceland’s second-largest glacier near Gullfoss.
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The Blue Lagoon Comfort – Relax in the world-famous geothermal spa, surrounded by mineral-rich, milky-blue waters.
Top Excursions from Reykjavik in Summer
For those staying in Reykjavík, these guided day tours from Reykjavik are perfect for travelers who prefer not to drive themselves while still enjoying Iceland's top attractions in summer.
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The Golden Circle Tour from Reykjavik – Visit Thingvellir National Park, Geysir geothermal area, and Gullfoss waterfall.
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The South Coast Tour from Reykjavik – Explore the Seljalandsfoss and Skogafoss waterfalls, Reynisfjara black sand beach, and glacier viewpoints.
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Go Inside the Volcano from Reykjavik – Descend into the dormant Thrihnukagigur volcano for a unique underground adventure.
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The Whale Watching Tour from Reykjavik – Spot whales, dolphins, and puffins on a thrilling marine safari.
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The Snæfellsnes Peninsula from Reykjavik – Discover black sand beaches, lava fields, volcanic craters, Snaefellsjokull glacier, and the iconic Kirkjufell mountain.
Best Winter Tours in Iceland
Winter in Iceland offers a magical experience with snow-covered landscapes, northern lights, and ice-filled adventures. From ice caving and glacier hikes to aurora hunting and geothermal relaxation, winter showcases Iceland’s beauty in a completely different light, with guided tours and self-drive options tailored for the season.
Top Day Tours in Winter
Winter offers unique opportunities to explore frosty landscapes and northern lights, with these being the most popular tours in winter.
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Crystal Blue Ice Cave Tour – Discover the magical blue ice caves beneath Vatnajokull glacier, a unique experience available only in winter.
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Northern Lights Tour from Reykjavik – Join expert guides to chase the aurora borealis at the best viewing spots near Reykjavik.
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Blue Lagoon Comfort Admission – Relax in the geothermal warmth of the Blue Lagoon, surrounded by Iceland’s snowy winter landscapes.
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Golden Circle Day Tour – A magical winter version of Iceland’s most famous sightseeing route, featuring geysers, waterfalls, and Thingvellir National Park.
Top Multi-Day Trips in Winter
The most popular guided multi-day tours during winter take travelers on a journey through the south coast of Iceland to the Crystal Ice Cave by Jokulsarlon glacier lagoon.
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5-Day Ultimate Winter Package in Iceland – Experience the best of Iceland in winter with ice caves, northern lights, and iconic sights over five incredible days.
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3-Day South Coast & Golden Circle Ice Cave Tour – Combine glacier hikes, ice caves, and Iceland’s iconic attractions in this three-day winter adventure.
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2-Day South Coast Ice Cave Tour – Explore majestic waterfalls, massive glaciers, and magical ice caves on this compact winter getaway.
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One-Week Guided Winter Circle of Iceland Tour – A full-circle guided winter tour of Iceland, featuring glacier hiking, waterfalls, ice caves, and the northern lights.
Top Winter Self-Drive Itineraries
For independent travelers, these winter self-drive tours provide flexibility and adventure, with the added benefit of increasing your chances to see the northern lights by allowing you to chase clear skies and ideal viewing conditions.
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7-Day Northern Lights Self-Drive Tour – A full week of winter exploration, including top sights and activities.
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6-Day Northern Lights Self-Drive with Ice Caving – Experience Iceland’s winter wonders, including ice caves, glaciers, waterfalls, and the magical northern lights.
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5-Day Northern Lights South Coast Tour – Blend aurora chasing with visits to glaciers and waterfalls.
Summary
As Iceland is currently approaching the solar maximum happening in 2025, it’s the perfect time to plan your visit, with enhanced chances to witness the vibrant northern lights during your trip. With the widest selection of experiences in Iceland, Guide to Iceland makes it easy for everyone to find the adventure they’re looking for. Whether you’re chasing the northern lights during this year's solar maximum—when auroras are at their most vibrant—exploring glaciers and ice caves, or driving through breathtaking landscapes, there’s something for every travel style and season. Iceland’s natural wonders await, offering unforgettable moments year-round.
Frequently asked questions
What are the most popular types of tours in Iceland?
What is the best tour for Iceland?
1. For the full Icelandic experience, the best tour is this 10-Day Complete Ring Road Self-Drive Tour of Iceland, which takes you around the country and to all the top attractions, such as the Godafoss waterfall, Mount Kirkjufell, and many, many more.
2. If you're visiting in winter, you can't go wrong with this 3-Day Northern Lights Self-Drive Tour, which includes glacier hiking and exploring Iceland's South Coast while searching for the aurora borealis.
3. For the perfect day tour, this Small-Group Golden Circle Tour with Bruarfoss waterfall and Kerid crater is a big highlight, as it takes you to three of Iceland's unique natural wonders in one day with additional stops at two other attractions.
4. Want to relax? Make a day of it with this Premium Blue Lagoon Tour with Return Transfer from Reykjavik and soak in the azure-colored geothermal waters of the world-famous Blue Lagoon.
5. Explore the dramatic side of Iceland's nature on this South Coast Day Tour, which takes you to the Jokulsarlon glacier lagoon, Skogafoss waterfall, and the infamous black sand beach of Reynisfjara.
6. For the best winter day tour in Iceland, this Ice Cave Tour in Vatnajokull National Park takes you inside a glacier and into a naturally-formed blue ice cave which is only accessible during the winter.
What is the best day trip from Reykjavik?
1. Among the best day trips from Reykjavik is this Small Group Minibus Tour of the Golden Circle, which takes you to see bursting hot springs and golden waterfalls.
2. Another great day tour is this Small Group Tour of the Snaefellsnes Peninsula, which takes you around the beautiful peninsula just north of Reykjavik, which includes glaciers, waterfalls, and the iconic Kirkjufell mountain.
3. If you want to explore the south, this South Coast Tour from Reykjavik takes you to dramatic black sand beaches and breathtaking waterfalls before returning to Reykjavik.
What is the best tour package in Iceland?
1. This 5-Day Summer Vacation Package in Iceland takes you to beautiful places such as Jokulsarlon glacier lagoon and the Snaefellsnes peninsula while making the most of the midnight sun.
2. If you're visiting during winter, you can't go wrong with this 5-Day Winter Vacation Package in Iceland, which includes ice caving and a visit to the famous Blue Lagoon geothermal spa.
3. If time is not a concern, the absolute best tour package is this 2-Week Self-Drive Tour of the Complete Ring Road & the Westfjords, which takes you around the country to all the major attractions, as well as adventuring to the remote and beautiful Westfjords of Iceland.
What are the best tours for first-time visitors?
1. Golden Circle Tour from Reykjavik – A must-see route with geysers, waterfalls, and Thingvellir National Park. The experience also includes a guide and departure from Iceland’s capital.
2. South Coast Tour from Reykjavik – See glaciers, stunning waterfalls, and the stunning Reynisfjara black sand beach on a guided tour with pick-up and drop-off in Reykjavik.
3. Northern Lights Tour in Iceland (if visiting in winter) – A chance to see the aurora borealis in the company of expert guides and a small group of travelers.
4. Blue Lagoon Bathing or Sky Lagoon Tour – Enjoy the ultimate relaxation in Iceland with a visit to Iceland’s top geothermal spas.
5. Whale Watching Tour from Reykjavik – See marine life from Reykjavik, including humpback whales and white-beaked dolphins. This exciting wildlife tour is also available in Akureyri and Husavik in North Iceland.
What are the best holiday packages in Iceland for families?
What is the best 5-day tour package in Iceland?
What is the best one week vacation package in Iceland?
If you're visiting during the summer, check out the 8-Day Summer Vacation Package of the Best Attractions in Iceland. This package includes a trip to the South Coast and exploring the Golden Circle.
What is the best 10-day vacation package in Iceland?
What is the best tour company in Iceland?
- Troll Expeditions is a tour company based in Reykjavik that focuses on small groups and adventurous activities and consistently has good reviews and happy travelers.
- NiceTravel was founded in 2012 by three Icelandic families and provides many fun tours to be a part of and knowledgeable guides leading the way.
- Reykjavik Excursions is the largest and most prominent travel company in Iceland, with various bus tours to well-known destinations, and they also operate the popular FlyBus airport shuttle.
What types of tours are available in Iceland?
1. Sightseeing Tours – Explore famous Icelandic routes like the Golden Circle, South Coast, and Snaefellsnes peninsula.
2. Adventure Tours – Experience thrilling activities in Iceland, such as glacier hiking in Skaftafell, whizzing across snowy plains with a snowmobiling tour in Langjokull, and exploring the hidden wonders of a glacier on an ice caving tour in Vatnajokull.
3. Wildlife Tours – Get up close with wildlife on a guided whale and puffin watching tour from Reykjavik and a selection of horseback riding tours in Iceland.
4. Northern Lights Tours – Chase the aurora borealis by bus, boat, or Super Jeep during winter.
5. Self-Drive Tours – Enjoy the freedom of a road trip in Iceland with a pre-planned itinerary and accommodations.
6. Cultural Tours – Discover Iceland’s rich heritage through Viking history, food tastings, and geothermal spa visits.
How do I choose the right tour in Iceland for me?
While simple sightseeing tours like the Golden Circle or whale-watching tours are suitable for all ages and abilities. It's also important to consider the time of year, as some tours are only offered during certain seasons, such as ice-caving, which is only available during winter.
How do I know which tour is right for me?
Your Interests: Whether you prefer nature, adventure, wildlife, or cultural experiences, there’s a tour for you.
Physical Ability: Some tours, like glacier hikes, require moderate fitness, while sightseeing tours are more relaxed.
Time Available: Choose from short day tours, multi-day adventures, or full vacation packages.
Season: Summer tours showcase lush landscapes and long daylight hours, while winter tours focus on the Northern Lights and ice caves.
Budget: Group tours are budget-friendly, while private tours offer a more exclusive and personalized experience.
What is the difference between guided tours and self-drive tours in Iceland?
Are guided tours better than self-drive tours?
• Guided tours in Iceland offer convenience, expert insights, and transportation—ideal for those who prefer structured itineraries.
• Self-drive tours in Iceland provide flexibility, independence, and the ability to explore at your own pace—perfect for adventurous travelers comfortable driving in Icelandic conditions.
Can I change the dates of my self-drive tour in Iceland after I have booked?
Do I need to book a tour in Iceland in advance?
Where do Golden Circle tours take me in Iceland?
Thingvellir is a UNESCO World Heritage site and is located within a forty-minute drive from Iceland's capital, Reykjavik. Haukadalur valley is home to the famous hot springs Strokkur and Geysir. The route draws its name from the beautiful Gullfoss waterfall, which translates to "Golden Falls."
What are glacier tours in Iceland?
What tours in Iceland are good for avoiding crowds?
This 8-Day Self Drive Tour of the Ring Road takes you around the country, visiting all the major natural wonders and attractions along the coast. Since you're driving yourself there, you can choose to go there when it's the least busy, such as early in the morning or around dinnertime.
In short, the best way to avoid crowds in Iceland is not being part of one.
What is the appeal of snowmobile tours in Iceland?
Can I go on ice cave tours year round in Iceland?
Can anyone go on horse riding tours in Iceland?
Where can I go on whale watching tours in Iceland?
What should I expect on a typical tour in Iceland?
Iceland’s weather is unpredictable, and tours run in most conditions—so dress in layers and be ready for sudden changes!
Are tours in Iceland expensive?
Should I tip my tour guides in Iceland?
Are tours in Iceland suitable for families with children?
What tours in Iceland are suitable for families with children?
1. Golden Circle and South Coast tours, which feature stunning waterfalls, geysers, and black sand beaches with minimal walking required.
2. Whale watching and puffin spotting tours, offering an exciting way for children to see Iceland’s diverse wildlife up close.
3. Horseback riding on Icelandic horses, a fun and beginner-friendly activity for kids and adults alike.
Some adventure tours, such as glacier hikes and snowmobiling, may have age restrictions (usually 8+ or 12+ years old), so be sure to check the tour details before booking.
What are the benefits of taking a tour in Iceland?
Convenience: A tour in Iceland can be a convenient way to explore the country's top attractions. Tour operators provide transportation, accommodation, and other logistics, which can make travel planning easier and more efficient.
Expert guidance: Tour guides in Iceland are knowledgeable about the country's culture, history, and natural attractions. They can provide valuable information and context about the places you visit, which can enhance your travel experience.
Safety: Outdoor activities in Iceland can be dangerous, especially for inexperienced travelers. Tour operators in Iceland prioritize safety, and they have experienced guides who can provide safety tips and guidelines.
Local perspective: Tour guides in Iceland are often locals who can provide an authentic and unique perspective on the country's culture and way of life. They can also recommend local restaurants, shops, and other hidden gems that may not be found in guidebooks.
Stress-free travel: Traveling in a foreign country can be stressful, especially if you are unfamiliar with the language and customs. Taking a tour in Iceland can provide a stress-free travel experience, as you don't have to worry about transportation, navigation, or other logistical details.
Social interaction: Tours in Iceland can provide opportunities for social interaction with other travelers. Group tours can be a great way to meet new people and make connections with like-minded individuals.
Time-saving: Iceland has many natural attractions that are spread out across the country, and it can be time-consuming to visit them all on your own. Tours in Iceland can provide a time-saving option, as they typically visit multiple attractions in a single day or week.
In summary, taking a tour in Iceland can provide convenience, safety, local perspective, and stress-free travel. It can also provide opportunities for social interaction and time-saving options.
When is the best time of year to visit Iceland?
The shoulder seasons of May and September can also be a good time to visit, as the crowds at the most popular attractions are smaller.
Are there tours available year-round in Iceland?
However, some activities are seasonal:
• Summer (June–August):
1. Experience the magic of the midnight sun tours in Iceland, where you can explore breathtaking landscapes under 24-hour daylight. For example, this Midnight Sun ATV Tour from Reykjavik lets you experience a thrilling quad biking experience through mountains and a lake for two hours.
2. Take advantage of Highland hiking tours to remote areas like Landmannalaugar, only accessible in summer. This top-rated Day Tour to Landmannalaugar from Reykjavik combines hiking with a super jeep right and natural hot spring bathing.
3. It’s also the best time for puffin watching tours, as thousands of these charming seabirds nest along Iceland’s cliffs. An excellent option is this Puffin Boat Tour from Reykjavik Harbor, which takes an hour inside a comfortable boat.
• Winter (September–April):
1. Chase the aurora borealis on unforgettable northern lights tours, which take you to dark, remote locations for the best viewing conditions. If you’re staying in Iceland’s capital, don’t hesitate to book this Northern Lights Super Jeep Tour from Reykjavik.
2. Explore stunning ice cave tours inside Iceland’s glaciers, where you’ll witness dazzling blue ice formations. The Vatnajokull Ice Caving Tour from Jokulsarlon is your most popular adventure to join.
3. For adventure seekers, glacier hikes let you trek across vast ice caps with expert guides. The easiest yet most exciting option is this Solheimajokull Glacier Hiking Tour, which is suitable for beginners.
Are there guided tours available year-round in Iceland?
Are private tours available in Iceland?
Can I book a private tour in Iceland?
Do I need to rent a car to explore Iceland?
What should I wear on a tour in Iceland?
What should I pack for a tour in Iceland?
Do Iceland tours operate in bad weather?
• Tours may be canceled or rescheduled in severe weather conditions (e.g., storms, heavy snowfall).
• If a tour is canceled, most operators offer full refunds or rebooking options.
How can I prepare for tours in Iceland's unpredictable weather?
How long do tours in Iceland last?
What is the average duration of tours in Iceland?
• Day tours typically last between 4 to 12 hours, covering popular routes like the Golden Circle and South Coast.
• Multi-day tours range from 2 to 14 days, ideal for in-depth adventures such as a Ring Road tour or self-drive packages.
• Short experiences last 1 to 3 hours, perfect for activities like whale watching, horseback riding, or northern lights hunting.
How long is the perfect vacation in Iceland?
Can I book tours in Iceland last-minute?
Can I change my tour booking?
Can I cancel my tour in Iceland?
Are tours accessible for people with disabilities?
Are there any age restrictions for tours in Iceland?
Are there any health concerns I should be aware of when participating in tours in Iceland?
Are there any cultural norms I should be aware of when participating in tours in Iceland?
Are there any restrictions for photography or filming on tours in Iceland?
Is it necessary to have travel insurance when booking a tour in Iceland?
Are meals included in tours in Iceland?
Can I bring my own snacks or food on tours in Iceland?
Can I customize my own tour in Iceland?
Do I need a tour guide to visit natural attractions in Iceland?
Can I book a tour that includes multiple activities?
Can I join a tour in Iceland as a solo traveler?
Are there any special considerations for solo travelers?
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