First-time visitors in Iceland should consider:
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.
If you're traveling with children, we recommend some of our self-drive tours that give you the freedom to travel from place to place on your own time with pre-booked accommodations around the country. This
1-Week Summer Self-Drive Tour of the Ring Road is ideal for families, and if you want to see the northern lights, we recommend this
11-Day Winter Self-Drive Holiday, which takes you around the island.
There are many great tour companies in Iceland, big and small, that take visitors to popular attractions around the country.
1.
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.
2.
NiceTravel was founded in 2012 by three Icelandic families and provides fun, well-organized tours led by friendly and knowledgeable local guides.
3.
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.
The best tour for you depends on several factors:
1. Your Interests – Whether you prefer nature, adventure, wildlife, or cultural experiences, there’s a tour for you.
2. Physical Ability – Some tours, like glacier hikes, require moderate fitness, while sightseeing tours are more relaxed.
3. Time Available – Choose from short day tours, multi-day adventures, or full vacation packages.
4. Season – Summer tours showcase lush landscapes and long daylight hours, while winter tours focus on the northern lights and ice caves.
5. Budget – Group tours are budget-friendly, while private tours offer a more exclusive and personalized experience.
Guided tours provide the convenience of expert guides, transportation, and planned itineraries, while
self-drive tours offer more flexibility and the freedom to explore at your own pace.
It depends on your preferences.
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.
Yes, you can change the dates of your self-drive tour in Iceland, but it depends on tour availability. However, it's important to note that modifying the dates may also result in a change in the overall price.
It's highly recommended to book tours in advance, especially during the high season (June-August) when they can sell out quickly. Booking in advance ensures that you have a guaranteed spot on the tour and can also sometimes result in discounted prices. Keep in mind that you can cancel most tours for any reason without charge, up until 24 hours before departure.
Glacier exploration is one of the most authentically Icelandic activities available—over 11% of Iceland’s landmass is, after all, covered with ice caps.
Glacier and ice cap tours allow you to explore Iceland’s most popular glacier hiking locations—such as the glaciers
Langjokull,
Vatnajokull,
Myrdalsjokull, and
Solheimajokull—on a snowmobile, in a super jeep or by foot. There are also numerous tours that take you inside a glacier, either into natural ice caves or a man-made ice tunnel.
The best tours for avoiding crowds in Iceland are
self-drive tours where you can explore at your own time and pace by visiting popular attractions outside their busiest hour.
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.
Snowmobile tours in Iceland balance incredible sightseeing opportunities and adrenaline-fuelled action. Whizzing and carving your way across some of Iceland’s most staggering ice caps, you'll be exposed to incredible views, intricate ice sculptures and crevasses, and you'll experience the incontestable thrill of speed.
Ice caves form within the country’s glaciers and melt away during the summer. Most ice caves, therefore, can only be visited during winter with the help of a knowledgeable guide on
ice cave tours. At the start of the winter seasons, glacier guides head out into the unknown to locate newly formed ice caves for exploration. The only ice cave that's possible to visit year-round is in Myrdalsjokull Glacier in South Iceland.
Horse riding tours are a great way to experience the beauty of Iceland's nature while getting to know the amazing Icelandic horse. Horse riding is available for both beginner and experienced riders. While some tour operators set their age limits, most will allow independent riders from five years old, but young children are normally led along by the tour guide.
Whale watching in Iceland is one of the most popular travel activities to engage in, thanks to over twenty species of cetacean that can be found in Iceland's waters. Visitors can choose to go whale watching from various locations, most notably from Iceland’s capital city, Reykjavik, from
Akureyri in the north, or the charming town of
Husavik, which is colloquially referred to as the "Whale-Watching Capital of Europe."
Most tours in Iceland include transportation, a professional guide, and visits to major attractions. Depending on the tour, you may also get hotel pickup, meals, and any required gear, such as crampons for glacier hikes.
Iceland’s weather is unpredictable, and tours run in most conditions—so dress in layers and be ready for sudden changes!
Tours in Iceland can be expensive, but prices vary depending on the type of tour and the length of the tour. Some of the most popular tours, like the Golden Circle and South Coast tours, can be done as a self-drive tour, which can be more cost-effective than joining a guided tour.
Tipping is not expected in Iceland, as service charges are usually included in the bill. However, it's not frowned upon to tip for exceptional service.
There are several benefits to taking a tour in Iceland, including:
• 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, a local perspective, and stress-free travel. It can also offer opportunities for social interaction and time-saving options.
The best time to visit Iceland depends on your interests. If you want to see the northern lights, the best time to visit is between September and April. However, if you want to experience the midnight sun, you should visit during the summer months (June through August).
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.
Guided tours are available throughout the year, with options tailored to each season. Winter tours often focus on activities like northern lights hunting and visiting ice caves, while summer tours highlight long daylight hours, waterfalls, and green landscapes.
Yes, many operators offer
private guided tours in Iceland for a more personalized experience. Private tours are great for families, photographers, or those wanting custom itineraries.
While it is possible to explore Iceland by
renting a car, there are many guided tours available that take visitors to popular attractions. For those who prefer not to drive, a guided tour is a good option.
It's important to dress appropriately for the type of tour you're going on and the weather conditions. In general, it's recommended to dress in layers, including a waterproof and windproof outer layer, warm and waterproof boots, and a hat and gloves. Some tours, such as glacier hiking and ice cave tours, may require additional gear, such as crampons and helmets, which will be provided by the tour company. If you're hoping to dip into a hot spring or a local swimming pool, make sure to pack a swimsuit as well.
The weather in Iceland is unpredictable, so it is best to pack for all types of weather. Layers are key, and visitors should bring waterproof and windproof jackets, hiking boots, thermal undergarments, gloves, and hats. It's also a good idea to bring a swimsuit for visiting geothermal pools.
• Most tours run regardless of rain, wind, or snow—dressing appropriately is key!
• 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.
It's important to dress in layers and bring waterproof and windproof clothing. Always check the weather forecast and follow the recommendations of your tour operator for specific gear.
Day tours usually last 4–12 hours, while
multi-day tours can range from 2 to 14 days. Shorter experiences like whale watching or northern lights tours may only take 1–3 hours.
The length of your Iceland vacation depends on your interests and itinerary. A vacation package that takes you around the Ring Road, which circles the entire country, can take around 10-14 days. A shorter trip to Reykjavik and the Golden Circle can be done in 3-5 days.
It's possible to book tours in Iceland last-minute, but availability can be limited during peak travel season. It's recommended to book in advance to ensure availability and to secure the best price.
Yes, you can change your tour booking by sending us an email or using our chat widget.
Yes, you can cancel a tour for any reason and receive a full refund if you cancel at least 24 hours before departure.
Accessibility varies among tours in Iceland. It's important to research and inquire about accessibility options before booking a tour. Some tour operators offer accessible vehicles, wheelchair ramps, and other accommodations for people with disabilities
Some tours in Iceland have age restrictions due to safety concerns. It's important to check before booking to ensure that the tour is suitable for your age group.
Iceland is a relatively safe country, but visitors should be aware of the risks of outdoor activities, such as hiking, snowmobiling, and snorkeling in cold water. Visitors should also be prepared for varying weather conditions, which can be unpredictable.
Icelandic culture places a high value on respect and consideration for others. It's important to follow tour guidelines, respect the environment, and be mindful of other participants. Tipping is not expected, but it's common to show appreciation for exceptional service.
There are no restrictions on taking photos or videos on tours in Iceland, but in some places, there might be restrictions on flying drones.
It's recommended to have travel insurance when booking a tour in Iceland to cover unexpected medical emergencies.
Meals are not always included in tours in Iceland, but many tours offer meal options or stops at local restaurants. It's important to check before booking to avoid any surprises.
It's possible to bring your own snacks or food on tours in Iceland, but some tours provide offer meal options or may stop at petrol stations where you can have quick meals like
Icelandic hot dogs.
Yes, just send us a message and we'll help you customize your tour in Iceland.
Visitors can visit most natural attractions in Iceland on their own, but it's recommended to hire a guide for safety and environmental reasons. A guide can also provide valuable information and context about the attraction.
Many tours in Iceland offer multiple activities, such as hiking, snowmobiling, and visiting natural attractions. It's important to check before booking to ensure that the tour includes the activities that you are interested in.
Yes, many tours are ideal for solo travelers, offering opportunities to meet others while exploring Iceland's attractions with the convenience of a guide.
Many tours welcome solo travelers, and group tours are a great way to meet others. Some guided tours do not require a single supplement, making them budget-friendly. Self-drive tours are also an option, but be aware of remote roads and winter driving conditions.
You can pay on Guide to Iceland using major credit cards, including Visa, Mastercard, and American Express, as well as Apple Pay, Google Pay, Alipay, and WeChat Pay. You can also choose to pay later or in installments with PayPal or Klarna at checkout.
You can either pay in full at the time of booking or choose to pay later and split the cost into installments with PayPal or Klarna at checkout.
Yes, all online payments on Guide to Iceland are processed through secure, encrypted systems to protect your personal and financial information. Industry-standard security measures are used to ensure your transaction details remain private and safe.
Yes, the total price will change if you add, remove, or upgrade elements in your package, such as accommodation, rental cars, or activities. Any adjustments are clearly reflected before you confirm changes, so you can review the updated total cost in advance.
The best time to book tours and vacation packages in Iceland is as early as possible, especially for summer travel between June and August when demand is highest. Booking in advance helps secure better availability and pricing, while winter travel often offers more flexibility but should still be reserved ahead of peak northern lights season.
It’s recommended to book tours in Iceland at least 2–6 months in advance for summer travel, especially between June and August when demand is highest. For winter trips, booking a few months ahead is still advised, particularly if you plan to join northern lights tours or visit popular attractions.
Many tours in Iceland can be booked up to 24 hours before departure, and some even allow same-day booking depending on availability. Multi-day tours and vacation packages are best secured at least a couple of weeks in advance, as hotel rooms and popular activities often sell out quickly, especially during peak travel months in summer and around the northern lights season.
Many tours in Iceland can be booked up to 24 hours before departure, and some even allow same-day booking depending on availability. Multi-day tours and vacation packages are best secured at least a couple of weeks in advance, as hotel rooms and popular activities often sell out quickly, especially during peak travel months in summer and around the northern lights season.
Inclusions vary by tour and package in Iceland, but most include accommodation, transportation, and any guided activities listed in the itinerary. Meals, international flights, travel insurance, and optional add-ons are usually not included unless clearly stated on the tour page, so reviewing the full description before booking is always recommended.
Yes, every tour and package includes a detailed day-by-day itinerary on the product page, outlining activities, accommodation, and key attractions. You can review the full schedule, inclusions, and important travel information before booking to ensure the trip matches your expectations.
Yes, every tour and package includes a detailed day-by-day itinerary on the product page, outlining activities, accommodation, and key attractions. You can review the full schedule, inclusions, and important travel information before booking to ensure the trip matches your expectations.
International
flights to Iceland are not typically included in vacation packages unless clearly stated on the booking page. Most packages focus on accommodation, transportation within Iceland, and planned activities, but you can review each package’s inclusions before booking to see exactly what is covered.
If your flight to Iceland is delayed or canceled, contact Guide to Iceland as soon as possible so your booking can be reviewed and adjusted if needed. The support team will assist with rescheduling airport transfers or tours based on availability and supplier policies.
Most Iceland vacation packages include airport transfers, while multi-day guided tours typically do not unless specifically stated. Always check the tour page for detailed inclusions so you can confirm whether airport pickup and drop-off are part of your booking.
After arriving at Keflavik International Airport, follow the instructions provided in your booking confirmation for airport transfer or rental car pickup. If your package includes transfers, you’ll receive details about where to meet your driver or board your shuttle, and if you’ve booked a rental car, pickup information will be clearly outlined in your travel documents.
The
weather in Iceland can occasionally affect tour schedules, especially during winter when snow, wind, or road conditions may require adjustments. In such cases, operators may modify the itinerary, reschedule activities, or offer suitable alternatives to ensure safety while maintaining the best possible experience.
Yes, some Iceland tours operate only during specific seasons due to weather and road conditions.
Ice cave tours and
northern lights tours are available mainly in winter, from October to April.
Midnight sun tours and
Highland tours run in summer, from June to early September, when mountain roads are open and daylight hours are at their longest.
Many Iceland tours are suitable for seniors and travelers with limited mobility, but accessibility varies depending on the activity and terrain. Sightseeing tours by coach and city experiences are generally easier to access, while glacier hikes or highland excursions may require good physical condition. If you have specific mobility needs, you can contact our travel agents for help finding accessible tours that match your requirements.
Yes, Iceland offers tours and vacation packages designed for honeymooners and special occasions, including luxury stays, private tours, and unique experiences such as northern lights excursions or geothermal spa visits. You can choose from romantic packages or customize your itinerary to create a more personalized celebration.
Group discounts may be available for larger bookings, private tours, or custom vacation packages in Iceland. Pricing depends on group size and the services included, so contacting Guide to Iceland for a tailored quote is recommended.
Travel insurance for Iceland should cover medical expenses, trip cancellations, delays, and lost luggage. While Iceland is a safe destination, comprehensive coverage is recommended due to changing weather conditions and outdoor activities that may involve some level of risk. Always review your policy details to ensure it covers the specific tours and activities you plan to join.
Safety is a top priority on Iceland tours, and licensed operators follow strict local regulations and weather guidelines. Professional guides are trained to assess conditions and provide safety instructions, and specialized equipment is provided when required for activities such as glacier hikes or snowmobiling.
Many Iceland tours and vacation packages offer free cancellation up to a specified time before departure, but policies vary by product. The exact cancellation terms and refund eligibility are always listed on the tour page, so reviewing them before booking is recommended.
Guide to Iceland offers 24/7 customer support to assist with bookings, changes, or travel questions. You can reach the support team through the contact options provided on the website for prompt assistance.
Guide to Iceland offers a best-price guarantee, meaning you won’t pay more than the standard listed price for the same tour or package. If you find the same product available at a lower price under the same conditions, you can contact our travel agents for review according to the guarantee terms.
All Iceland vacation packages are customizable, allowing you to choose your preferred accommodation, transportation option, and add extra tours or experiences during booking. If you’d like a fully tailored trip, Guide to Iceland’s travel specialists can help design a personalized itinerary based on your travel dates and interests.
Yes, in most cases, you can add extra tours or experiences after booking, depending on availability and timing. It’s best to contact us as early as possible to update your booking and secure any additional activities.
