Spectacular 6-Day Guided Ring Road Tour with Golden Circle and Optional Activities from Reykjavik

Gullfoss waterfall is the most visited waterfall in the land of fire and ice.
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Description

Summary

Tour starts
Reykjavík, Iceland
Starting time
at 08:30
Duration
6 days
Ending place
Reykjavík, Iceland
Languages
English
Difficulty
Easy
Available
May - Oct.
Minimum age
5 years old

Description

Discover the beauty of Iceland and see its top attractions from the South Coast to the Golden Circle on this multi-day Ring Road tour. Travelers who want to maximize their trip to the land of fire and ice by exploring diverse landscapes with add-on activities like geothermal bathing and glacier hiking should not miss this opportunity.

This small group tour begins with a pick-up at your accommodation in Reykjavik, where you’ll meet your English-speaking guide. For your convenience, you will ride on a comfortable minibus with free Wi-Fi and USB chargers for the next six days. You will also spend every night of this tour in five different accommodations with cozy rooms and complimentary breakfast.

Three waterfalls and the stunning Reynisfjara black beach await you on the first day of your Icelandic trip. The Seljalandsfoss and Skogafoss are two of the most famous waterfalls in Iceland, while the Gljufrabui waterfall is a hidden gem of the South Coast.

Day two will bring you to the top attractions of Vatnajokull National Park and the Eastfjords. At Jokulsarlon glacier lagoon and Diamond Beach, you will see thousands of icebergs floating in the water and volcanic sands. Meanwhile, you will have an excellent time exploring the scenic towns of Eastfjords from Djupivogur to Egilsstadir.

As you continue circling the Ring Road, you will explore North Iceland for two days. The highlights of these days are visits to spectacular tourist spots such as Lake Myvatn, Dettifoss and Godafoss waterfalls, and Akureyri town. You will also have a great chance to learn more about the wildlife of Iceland during this time.

Meanwhile, day five of your small group tour will let you witness just how mighty the nature of Iceland is. For example, on the Silver Circle route in West Iceland, Europe’s most powerful hot spring, Deildartunguhver, flows at a rapid rate of 48 gallons (180 liters) per second. 

The highlight of this day is an hour-long lava caving experience at Vidgelmir cave, the largest lava tube in Iceland, spanning 5200 feet (1585 meters). 

To end your holiday in Iceland on a high note, the last day of the tour is a sightseeing adventure in the Golden Circle. With its proximity to Iceland’s capital, the three attractions on this tourist route, Thingvellir, Geysir geothermal area, and Gullfoss waterfall, are the most visited in the land of fire and ice. 

As you traverse this iconic route and before returning to Reykjavik, you will marvel at the beauty of these natural wonders and see why they are popular tourist destinations.

To make your six-day Iceland trip more thrilling, you will have the opportunity to experience an optional activity each day. In particular, the add-on tours include glacier hiking, a boat tour in Jokulsarlon, geothermal bathing in Blue Lagoon and Lake Myvatn, and whale watching in Akureyri.

You can bring a piece of hand luggage on the tour. Contact the operator for checked luggage or luggage storage.

Spend six days exploring the most beautiful attractions of Iceland, from waterfalls to caves, on this guided Ring Road tour with optional activities. Check availability now by choosing a date.

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Included

Minibus transfer from Reykjavik
Free Wi-Fi and USB charging ports on board
Five-day accommodation in a double or twin room with private bathroom
Breakfast for five days
Entrance fee to Vidgelmir lava cave
Entrance fee to Kerid volcano crater
English-speaking guide
Small group tour (maximum of 19)
You can bring one piece of hand luggage (checked luggage may be available upon request or can be stored for a fee)

Activities

Glacier Hiking
Caving
Whale Watching
Sightseeing
Boat Trip
Hot Spring Bathing

Daily itinerary

Day 1
See the famous black sands of Reynisfjara beach on the South Coast of Iceland.

Day 1 - South Coast of Iceland

The first day of your multi-day tour opens with a minibus pick-up from your hotel in Reykjavik. From Iceland’s capital, you will journey into the beautiful South Coast region famous for its majestic waterfalls and scenic coastal attractions.

The journey will take your small group over a highland pass surrounded by lava fields, passing through the Hveragerdi town. Soon after, you will see the notorious Eyjafjallajokull volcano from a distance, signaling that you have arrived at your first destination.

Seljalandsfoss waterfall is the first of the three waterfalls to explore on the South Coast. With a cliff of 197 feet (60 meters), the cascading water of Seljalandsfoss is a sight to behold from any viewing angle, whether front or back.

Not far from here is the hidden waterfall of Gljufrabui, a beautiful attraction you have the chance to explore away from tourist crowds.

The third waterfall to visit on this day is the massive Skogafoss waterfall. On a sunny day, it’s easy to spot small rainbows shooting from the 197 feet (60 meters) cascade of the waterfall.

A trip to the South Coast of Iceland wouldn’t be complete without walking on the iconic black sands of Reynisfjara beach. This tourist spot is the most famous black sand beach in Iceland. You can also get panoramic views of nearby Icelandic landscapes from the coast, like the Reynisdrangar sea stacks and the Dyrholaey peninsula.

The day ends as you rest for the night at a countryside hotel in the southern region of Iceland.

Optional activity:

If you’re up for an adventure, you may join the three-hour glacier hike atop Solheimajokull glacier. Glacier hiking is a fun activity that will let you explore the diverse landscapes of an ice cap, from crevasses to deep moulins.

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Day 2
There are thousands of floating icebergs in Jokulsarlon glacier lagoon.

Day 2 - Vatnajokull Glacier and the Eastfjords

Day two of the ring road tour in Iceland begins with a hearty breakfast from the hotel. Right after, your friendly tour guide will bring you to the best attractions in the Vatnajokull National Park before taking you to the picturesque towns of the Eastfjords.

Be amazed by a back-to-back visit to Jokulsarlon glacier lagoon and Diamond Beach, the crown jewels of Vatnajokull glacier. These attractions are most known for their glittering ice chunks from the nearby Breidamerkurjokull outlet glacier.

Jokulsarlon lagoon is Iceland’s deepest lake at 814 feet (248 meters). Thousands of icebergs, varying in size and color, float in its ice-cold waters. Before the ice pieces melt towards the Atlantic Ocean, some end up on the nearby Diamond Beach. The ice crystals scattered on the black volcanic sands are views you will never forget.

As you venture into the eastern region of Iceland, there will be more natural attractions to see but fewer tourist crowds to encounter. First on the list is Vestrahorn mountain, one of the most recognizable mountains in Iceland because of its distinctive peaks.

As the tour goes deeper into the Eastfjords, dramatic fjords with impressive coastal villages and fertile inland farmlands are the familiar sights. In particular, you’ll visit the historic seaside village of Djupivogur, where you can see the famous artwork Eggs of Merry Bay.

After a day of touring in East Iceland, you will spend the night at a lovely accommodation in Egilsstadir, where you can also find excellent shops and restaurants.

Optional Activities:

Day two offers two optional activities for sightseeing and relaxing. First, at Jokulsarlon lagoon, you can get up close with the icebergs and seals by joining a 45-minute amphibious boat tour.

Meanwhile, to cap off an adventurous day, you can opt to have a relaxing geothermal bath at Vok Baths by Urridavatn lake in Egilsstadir.

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Day 3
The pseudo-craters of Lake Myvatn are some of its best features.

Day 3 - Lake Myvatn and Dettifoss Waterfalls

Day three of the small group excursion brings you to the breathtaking nature of North Iceland through moon-like landscapes, massive waterfalls, and thriving Icelandic birdlife.

Before reaching the first destination in the northern region, you will have a quick stop at the Studlagil canyon near Egilsstadir. The canyon is one of the most impressive hidden attractions of East Iceland because of its unique basalt columns and clear glacial water.

As the ring road tour brings you to the north after traveling 78 miles (126 kilometers), you’ll reach Dettifoss waterfall, the most powerful waterfall in Europe. The waterfall has a wide cliff mouth measuring 330 feet (100 meters) that produces plumes of spray visible even from afar.

Two more magnificent waterfalls await you on this Diamond Circle route along the ring road. In particular, Godafoss waterfall is known for its deep history, while Selfoss waterfall is famous for its short but wide cascade.

The highlight of this day is a trip to the Myvatn area, home to the fourth-largest lake in Iceland and some otherworldly geological formations. Lake Myvatn features pseudo-craters in its waters because of its active geothermal activities. It is also an excellent place for birdwatching because over 13 species of waterfowl and ducks are nesting here.

Fans of the popular show Games of Thrones will recognize one of the attractions near the lake called Grjotagja cave, as it features in one of the episodes. Other places of interest include the Dimmuborgir lava fields and the Hverir geothermal area.

The day ends as you arrive at your hotel in Akureyri to recharge for tomorrow’s activities.

Optional Activity:

While in North Iceland, don’t miss the chance to dip in the mineral-rich waters of Myvatn Nature Baths. Its steam baths and heated pools are some of the best places to experience the popular Icelandic geothermal bathing.

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Day 4
The Hvitserkur sea stack is one of the most iconic attractions in North Iceland.

Day 4 - More Attractions in North Iceland

The fourth day of your Icelandic sightseeing tour starts with a delicious breakfast at your hotel in Akureyri. Today, you will be exploring more scenic towns and villages in North Iceland, with a chance to meet the gentle giants of the sea.

Before leaving Akureyri, you will have ample time to see this beautiful town in one of the longest fjords in Iceland. As the capital of the north and the biggest settlement outside Reykjavik, Akureyri has all the amenities you need, from shops, malls, restaurants, and even an airport.

Less than an hour’s drive from the town is the small coastal village of Dalvik. Just off the area’s coast is Eyjafjordur bay, where you’ll have the optional whale watching activity. Measuring 47 miles (70 kilometers), Eyjafjordur is a deep fjord with fertile waters known to support a significant number of marine animals.

As the group continues exploring the ring road, you will head to Varmahlid village for a quick stop to see landmarks like the Vidimyrarkirkja turf church.

Before arriving at your final destination for the day, you will have two more attractions to visit in North Iceland. Hvitserkur is a bizarre basalt rock sea stack in the Vatnsnes Peninsula that is an exceptional subject for nature photography. Not far from here is the Kolugljufur canyon, where a series of spectacular waterfalls cascade beautifully.

As you leave the northern region and circle back to West Iceland, the group will retire in a charming hotel at Borgarnes town in the Borgarfjordur area.

Optional activity:

If you opt for today’s optional activity, you will spend three hours roaming around the bay to spot humpback whales, fin whales, white-beaked dolphins, harbor porpoises, and more. Your guide will also tell you more about these aquatic animals as you marvel at them.

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Day 5
Hraunfossar is a unique waterfall with cliffs made of lava.

Day 5 - Lava Caving in the Silver Circle

The fifth day of the ring road tour will let you discover the best of West Iceland through the Silver Circle tourist route. The awe-inspiring series of waterfalls and extraordinary geological formations in the area will elevate your Icelandic holiday.

First on the list is the remarkable Deildartunguhver hot spring in Reykholtsdalur. With a rapid flow rate of 48 gallons (180 liters) per second, Deildartunguhver is the highest-flowing hot spring in Europe. Due to its power and high temperatures, the hot spring’s waters are used to heat Icelandic homes as far away as Akranes.

Like the rest of Iceland, this area also features countless waterfalls of varying heights and flows. Glanni and Barnafoss waterfalls are parts of a stream of waterfalls in the Hvita and Nordura rivers with a deep history in local folklore. You may ask your guide about these fascinating stories.

Considered to be the most beautiful waterfall in this stream of cascades is the Hraunfossar waterfall. The most distinctive feature of this Icelandic attraction is the lava field that makes up its cliff. With the rocky and rugged shape of the cliff, the water trickles down into many small streams that are wonderful to see.

The highlight of this day is a lava caving experience at the Vidgelmir cave. This West Iceland cave system is the largest lava tube in Iceland at 5200 feet (1585 meters). For nearly two hours, you will explore its subterranean wonders of colored walls, glimmering icicles, and unique rock formations. This expedition will let you realize how powerful volcanic eruptions can be.

Before returning to Reykjavik for an overnight stay, you will stop by the large farm area of Husafell, where you can see towering mountains over the horizon.

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Day 6
The Gullfoss waterfall is the most famous waterfall in Iceland.

Day 6 - Golden Circle of Iceland

The last day of your ring road tour in Iceland takes you to the most visited tourist route in the land of fire and ice, which loops at 190 miles (300 kilometers). The Golden Circle of Iceland is where you can see the Nordic country’s three most famous attractions, the Thingvellir National Park, Geysir geothermal area, and the Gullfoss waterfall.

From Reykjavik, the closest tourist spot is Thingvellir, a spectacular area with notable historical and cultural significance to Iceland. This UNESCO World Heritage site is the only place where you can walk between two continental plates, as the Eurasian and North American plates drift apart here.

The second natural wonder on the Golden Circle is what gave geysers all over the world their name. Geysir geothermal area is home to the mighty geysers that shoot superheated waters several feet into the air.

Although Geysir is dormant these days, its neighbor Strokkur is still active and gives a spectacular show every few minutes. Witnessing this firsthand is one of the most impressive things you’ll see in Iceland.

The third attraction on this route is the last waterfall you’ll see on this ring road tour. Gullfoss is a two-tiered waterfall flowing from 105 feet (32 meters). With its massive cascade and rich history, the Gullfoss waterfall is one of Iceland’s most beloved and essential attractions.

As you approach the end of your six-day excursion and return to Reykjavik, the minibus will take your small group to Kerid volcanic crater to marvel at its red-colored caldera and the shallow lake at its center.

Optional Activity:

After an adventurous week along Iceland’s ring road, a calming geothermal bath in the Blue Lagoon is the best way to cap it off. This geothermal spa features mineral-rich and milky blue waters famous for their healing qualities.

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What to bring

Warm and waterproof clothing with layers
Sturdy hiking shoes (can be rented upon booking)
Winter gloves, hat, and scarf
Camera

Good to know

- The minimum age to join is five years.

- Solo or single travelers will be given a Single Room Supplement for accommodation.

-You can bring one piece of hand luggage. Checked luggage may be available upon request or can be stored for a fee.

- Pick-up from Reykjavik is between 08:30 – 09:00 a.m.

- The optional activities are glacier hiking, boat tour, whale watching, and hot spring bathing. All these activities have separate fees that you may add upon booking.

- The optional activities are dependent on weather and safety conditions. Should the activity be canceled, the tour operator will find other activities for your group and refund the price difference.

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