8 Days Summer Ring Road Iceland | Small Group

Your tour will start with the very popular Golden Circle. You’ll visit all the must-see locations of this popular route: Thingvellir National Park, Geysir geothermal area, and Gullfoss waterfall. Your hotel is located in the South Coast, right outside of the Golden Circle area. 

Tour duration: 10 hours

Highlights

• Thingvellir National Park
• Geysir & Haukadalur Geothermal Area
• Gullfoss – The Golden Waterfall

Thingvellir National Park

Thingvellir is Iceland’s most important historical site, a place where Viking chieftains declared laws and made alliances for nearly a thousand years. Home to the Althingi thought to be the world’s first democratic parliament. Thingvellir is now protected as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Geysir & Haukadalur Geothermal Area

Our next stop is the Haukadalur Geothermal area, where you’ll find Geysir, the original hot-water spout after which all other geysers around the world are named. Strokkur sits nearby, a reliable “old faithful” spout that sends cascades of superheated water up to 30 meters into the sky every six or seven minutes in a dazzling display. Just remember to stand upwind to avoid a shower! There are lots of hissing hotpots and bubbling streams to see here too.

Gullfoss – The Golden Waterfall

The Golden Circle is also the home of Iceland’s most famous waterfall, Gullfoss. “The Golden Waterfall” is a roaring double-drop waterfall, with millions of glacial gallons continuously cascading into a deep ravine. Sheets of spray hang in the air and on sunlit days, sparkling rainbows make Gullfoss an unforgettable sight. Powered by meltwater from the nearby Langjokull glacier, it’s possible to see Gullfoss from several viewing platforms at varying heights.

Accommodation: 3-star hotel in Hvolsvollur

Experience the breathtaking beauty of Iceland’s south coast. Witness the powerful Seljalandsfoss and Gljúfrabúi waterfalls, and take in the stunning view of Skógafoss waterfall from the top of the wooden stairs. See the effects of climate change at the Eyjafjallajökull glacier view, which famously erupted in 2010, and explore the world-famous black sand beach of Reynisfjara with its unique basalt column cave. Don’t miss out on the picturesque Vik village, which offers stunning views of Reynifjara’s basalt stacks. 

This tour also includes a 3-hour enthralling visit to the breathtaking Katla Ice Cave, which will leave you with lasting memories. Stay the night at the Vik neighborhood, which is close to South.

Tour duration: 10 hours

Highlights

• Seljalandsfoss Waterfall
• Skógafoss Waterfall
• Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach
• Katla Ice Cave

Seljalandsfoss Waterfall

You’ll have a unique opportunity to walk directly behind the cascading water, a thrilling experience that promises to leave you refreshed and invigorated. Be prepared for some splashing, so bring your raincoat and sturdy boots for this memorable adventure.

Skógafoss Waterfall

a must-see attraction in South Iceland. Feel the sheer power of this cascading wonder as you stand in its misty embrace. Explore the surrounding area, including the Skógar Folk Museum, where an impressive collection of turf huts and regional artifacts awaits, providing a glimpse into Iceland’s rich cultural history.

Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach

A striking black lava beach framed by dramatic rock formations and bird cliffs. Here, the crashing waves meet the volcanic sands, creating an ethereal atmosphere. Keep an eye out for the fascinating birdlife that calls this coastline home.

Katla Ice Cave Activity

Our friendly local guides will take you on a thrilling super jeep ride through the mountains, where you’ll witness the distinctively green mountains and a variety of breathtaking sights, tones, and textures. Your guide will share fascinating insights about the cave’s formation and history, while you capture the bizarre shapes and crystal ice with your camera.

Glacier Hike

Now we will reach our highlights of the tour, the glacier hike. Iceland is well-known for its glaciers. Did you know that glaciers cover about 10% of the total area of Iceland? on this tour, you will also take part in a glacier hike (approx. 1.5 hours long), with a guide and all the necessary safety equipment provided. A glacier hike, as its name suggests, is a professionally performed activity on which careful glacial routes are selected and thereafter hiked by a small group of people led by a certified guide.

Note: If glacier hike is not done today, it will be moved the next day.

Accommodation: 3-star hotel in Vik

Join us on a captivating journey through some of Iceland’s most awe-inspiring landscapes and natural wonders. Our adventure begins with a stop at Reynisfjara black sand beach, where a short walk along the shoreline will bring you to the unique and breathtaking basalt-column cave. You will also see the magnificent Reynisdrangar peaks, rising majestically just off the coast.

Tour duration: 10 hours

Highlights

• Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon
• Amphibian Boat Tour
• Diamond Beach

Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon

Continuing with the theme of ice, we move on to the Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon, one of Iceland’s most famous ice lagoons, known for being featured in James Bond and other movies. Feast your eyes on the jaw-droppingly beautiful iceberg-filled lagoon and visit the fabulous Diamond Beach. This coal-black beach glitters with shimmering blue and white icebergs washed ashore by the tide, transporting you to a mystical ice realm with magical landscapes.

Amphibian Boat Tour

You sail around massive icebergs in the stunning Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon throughout the adventure. You can sample the 1,000-year-old ice on the boat, and if you’re lucky, you could even spot some seals. An English-speaking guide provides an explanation of the geology and facts of the lagoon during the thirty to forty minute journey. Upon request, other languages might be provided.

Diamond Beach

Now we come to the highlight of your South Coast adventure – the Diamond Beach, and the Glacier Lagoon at Jokulsarlon. This beach is constantly being shaped by the wind and icebergs; all of the colorful little pieces of ice slowly melting away into black sand, creating mesmerizing shapes. The Diamond Beach gets its name from the diamonds-like glittering glints on this black sand Atlantic beach. The eye-catching slivers and chunks of ice of all shapes and sizes will astound you and offer fantastic photo opportunities. This is the perfect location to pop up the question.

Accommodation: 3-star hotel in Hofn

We explore Iceland’s breathtaking East Fjords today. As we traverse the narrow roads nestled between the mountains and the ocean, you’ll witness the remote and rugged beauty of the Hvalnes peninsula.

Tour duration: 10 hours

Highlights

• Hallormsstadaskógur
• Lake Lagarfljót
• Horseback riding (Optional Activity)
• Vök Baths (Optional Activity)

Hallormsstadaskógur

Hallormsstadur is Iceland’s largest forest, conveniently situated just a short drive from Egilstadir. Featuring numerous hiking trails, picnic spots and camping sites – Hallormsstadur makes an excellent place for outdoor fun with children or those wanting an enjoyable picnic or camping trip with family and friends!

Lake Lagarfljót

Lagarfljot is an entrancing lake located a short drive from Egilstadir. Legend has it that an unknown monster lurks below its waters; visitors may take a boat tour to explore or hike to nearby waterfalls and hot springs for an immersive experience.

Horseback riding (Optional Activity)

We are going to be instructed in the art of riding Icelandic horses by a Riding Instructor! We will set off on horseback to explore the breathtaking scenery of the Icelandic Wilderness, with each participant receiving their own horse. They are the only breed of horse in the world with five gaits, including the four-beat lateral ambling gait known as the “tölt,” Icelandic horses are exceptional. There is no other horse breed in the world that has this particular gait. Icelandic horses are also renowned for their hardiness and sure footedness, which enable them to endure severe weather conditions and navigate challenging terrain. They are excellent companions for both work and play because of their intellect and amiable dispositions.

Vök Baths (Optional Activity)

To end the day, we’ll soak in the geothermal Vök Baths, nestled amidst the serene scenery of Lake Urriðavatn. These modern, floating infinity pools are a unique experience not to be missed. Please note that enjoying the hot baths is an optional extra, and you’ll need to book it during the booking process at your own expense.

Accommodation: 3-star hotel in Egilsstadir

Embark on a private adventure to one of Iceland’s best-kept secrets, Stuðlagil Canyon and its surrounding areas.

Tour duration: 10 hours

Highlights

• Stuðlagil Canyon
• Námaskarð Geothermal Area
• Dettifoss Waterfalls
• Lake Myvatn

Stuðlagil Canyon

One of the most popular destinations in East Iceland. The canyon is located in Efri-Jökuldalur in Egilsstaðir and boasts one of the country’s largest and most beautiful basalt formations. The best view of the canyon is on the east side of Jökulsá, and we will need to walk for about 25-35 minutes to get there. But don’t worry, the hike is not very long, and it’s worth it to see the stunning basalt columns up close.

Námaskarð Geothermal Area

Where the Earth’s raw power is on full display. Immerse yourself in a surreal landscape adorned with bubbling mud pools and steaming hot springs. The air is thick with the scent of sulfur, a testament to the fiery energy that lies beneath your feet. It’s a sensory adventure like no other, where you’ll feel the pulse of the Earth itself.

Dettifoss Waterfalls

Dettifoss is the most powerful waterfall in Europe. The spectacular spectacle attracts hundreds of tourists every day. Milky Glacial water falls from more than 40 meters, crashing into the colossal Dettifoss canyon, fed by Vatnajökull. We’ll also show you Selfoss, a gentler waterfall near Akureyri.

Lake Myvatn

Mývatn is one of Iceland’s largest lakes and home to thousands of migrating birds in the summer. You’ll enjoy fantastic views of lava fields and volcanic craters as far as the eye can see.

Accommodation: 3-star hotel in Akureyri

Get ready for an adventurous day in North Iceland! We’ll start with a short stop in the charming capital of the North, Akureyri, surrounded by mountains and overlooking the mesmerizing Eyjafjörður Fjord.

Tour duration: 10 hours

Highlights

• Dimmuborgir
• Godafoss Waterfalls
• Hauganes Whale Watching

Dimmuborgir

Take a walkover to Dimmuborgir (Dark Cities), where you can go among the extraordinary lava formations and jagged volcanic rocks. Some say that trolls were here!

Godafoss Waterfalls

We will end our fourth day with a visit to Godafoss, the “Waterfall of the Gods”. It is where Iceland’s religious leaders threw away their Pagan idols and committed to Christianity.

Hauganes Whale Watching

The tour includes a Whale-Watching excursion from Hauganes harbor. The boats used are traditional, spacious and comfortable oak fishing boats. The likelihood of spotting whales during the tour is high. During the summer of 2021, the success rate was 99% for all the tours.

Accommodation: 3-star hotel in Borgarnes

Embrace the wonders of the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, often dubbed “the peninsula of the snowy mountain”. This striking landform stretches out from Iceland’s west coast, akin to an extended arm ending in a dramatic fist. It’s a condensed version of Iceland’s majesty: rugged mountains, quaint fishing villages, and striking coastlines.

Tour duration: 10 hours

Highlights

• Ytri Tunga
• Djúpalónssandur Beach
• Búðir Church
• Arnarstapi
• Kirkjufell

Ytri Tunga

Ytri-Tunga, close to the farm of the same name, has golden sand and is framed by a gentler landscape. There is even a seal colony here, and often, but especially in summer, the seals come up onto the rocks. What a photo opportunity!

Djúpalónssandur Beach

The incredibly beautiful beach, and the atmospheric surroundings, cannot fail to leave you very impressed. When I stand on Djúpalónsperlur, the smooth black andesite pebbles, and look back up across the fine black sand, I feel I am in a natural amphitheater. The surrounding cliffs ‘embrace’ the beach and rise to the headland, where a footpath leads to Dritvík, a short walk away. In fine weather, views of the pristine glacier are glorious.

The place lends itself to drama and trials of strength, or trials of survival. Try out the four lifting stones that the fisherman of the past used to demonstrate their physical prowess. The wreckage of the British trawler at Dritvík serves to remind us that some paid the ultimate price for their courage in entering these treacherous waters.

Búðir Church

Búðakirkja is a charming black wooden church set in one of the most picturesque landscapes ever, not surprisingly, it is a very popular wedding venue. Visit the church and follow the pathways around the area, and you will come to another of Iceland’s rare golden beaches and the gorgeous Hótel Búðir.

Arnarstapi

On your way in, at the top of the village above the cove, you cannot miss the towering monument to the legendary half-troll / half-man, Bárðar of the Snæfellsás Saga. You will find restaurants, some with interesting local photographs and information.

To get the best of Arnarstapi, you have to explore the coastal paths and go down to the beautiful, steep-sided little cove, with its boat jetty. The unique cliff formations include Gatklettur, and the ocean passes through the archway at high tide. I recommend walking to Hellnar if you can spare 40 minutes each way.

Kirkjufell

This mountain and the nearby Kirkjufellsfoss Waterfall are often cited to be the most photographed sites in Iceland. The mountain is shaped like a peak of whipped cream, and the falls remind us that a waterfall doesn’t have to be high to be stunning. No wonder this location has appeared in Game of Thrones.

Accommodation: 3-star hotel in Borgarnes

Today’s your last day, you’ll be heading to the West of Iceland to explore stunning attractions such as Deildartunguhver, Europe’s most powerful hot spring, Hraunfossar and Barnafossar waterfalls, and Reykholt, which holds a significant historical heritage. You’ll arrive in Reykjavík in the evening. 

Tour duration: 10 hours

Highlights

• Deildartunguhver Geothermal Area
• Hraunfossar & Barnafoss Waterfall
• Reykholt

Deildartunguhver Geothermal Area

The strongest hot spring in Europe is called Deildartunguhver. 180 l/sec of hot water at 100°C is produced by it.

Deildartunguhver provides the majority of the water used for central heating in the cities of Borgarnes and Akranes. The longest hot water pipeline in Iceland, spanning 64 kilometers, delivers hot water to Akranes at a temperature of between 78 and 80 degrees. You have already soaked in the hot water from this potent spring if you take a shower anywhere within 65 miles of the spring!

Hraunfossar & Barnafoss Waterfall

After absorbing the tranquil beauty of Hraunfossar, we’ll visit Barnafoss, also known as Children’s Falls. The waterfall is linked with an eerie story of two children falling in the waterfall, but your guide will tell you all the haunting details!

Reykholt

Snorralaug (Snorri’s Pool) is a small hot spring found just a few minutes away in Reykholt, where local people have bathed since the 12th century. This pool was first mentioned in the medieval writings of Snorri Sturluson, a famous Icelandic poet, and chieftain, who used to live and bathe here too. Snorralaug is now a protected archaeological site.

After this activity, you will meet your private guide again, and you will be taken back to Reykjavik.

We operate from April to September every Wednesday, Friday, and Sunday.

When making a reservation, a drop-down selection with the specific locations in Reykjavík will be displayed for pickup. Pickup isn’t offered from Keflavik Airport or from locations outside of the main city. Pickup from the location of your choice takes place between 8 and 8.30 am.

Individual travelers are required to pay for a single supplement fee and will be assigned a single room. When two persons book a reservation, a double room is assigned. When three or more people book, triple rooms are automatically assigned. A party of eight, for instance, will be given two triple rooms and one double room. In case these arrangements fail to fulfill your needs, do get in touch with us at info@iceland-highlights.com

• You will receive a 93.5% refund if you cancel up to 24 hours before the tour starts.
• The 6.5% is a non-refundable processing fee