Around Iceland Ring Road Tour – 6 Days

Activity code: 347592
Duration
6 days
Guiding Style
Fully Guided
Hotel Rating
B&B Standard
Start / End
Reykjavík → Reykjavík
Group Size
Min 1 / Max 20
Physical Rating
Easy Light activity
Travelers can expect some light physical activities

Highlights

This six-day Ring Road tour takes you on a complete circuit of Iceland, revealing the island's most dramatic and awe-inspiring landscapes at every turn. From thundering waterfalls and ancient geysers to calving glaciers, volcanic craters, and remote fishing villages, each day brings a new and unforgettable chapter of Iceland's extraordinary story.

Travel by minibus with a knowledgeable English-speaking guide throughout, staying in hotels and guesthouses with private bathrooms along the way. With breakfast included every morning and pick-up from a central Reykjavík meeting point, this tour offers a seamless and immersive way to explore Iceland from coast to coast.

  • Explore the iconic Golden Circle — visiting the UNESCO World Heritage Site Þingvellir National Park, the spectacular Geysir geothermal area, and the majestic Gullfoss waterfall — then continue along the South Coast to Seljalandsfoss, Skógafoss, and the dramatic Reynisfjara black sand beach
  • Embark on a guided glacier hike on one of Vatnajökull's outlet glaciers in Vatnajökull National Park — home to Europe's largest glacier — and marvel at the floating icebergs of the world-famous Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon
  • Wind through the remote and breathtaking East Fjords, stopping in the charming fishing village of Djúpivogur to see the celebrated outdoor sculpture Eggin í Gleðivík, and overnight at the distinctive Wilderness Center — a winter gateway to the Northern Lights
  • Discover the volcanic wonders of the Lake Mývatn region — including the steaming fumaroles of Námaskarð, the Hverfjall volcanic crater, the surreal Dimmuborgir lava formations, and the graceful crescent of Goðafoss, the 'Waterfall of the Gods'
  • Set sail on a whale-watching boat tour in Eyjafjörður in search of humpback whales, dolphins, and porpoises, then journey along the scenic Tröllaskagi Peninsula to Siglufjörður, the former herring fishing capital of the Atlantic
  • Conclude the journey in West Iceland's Borgarfjörður region, visiting Deildartunguhver — Europe's most powerful hot spring — the waterfalls Barnafoss and Hraunfossar, and the medieval historic site of Reykholt, before returning to Reykjavík

6-Day Around Iceland Ring Road Itinerary

  1. Day 1

    Golden Circle & South Coast – Seljalandsfoss, Reynisfjara, Skógafoss

    Depart from Reykjavík. On the first day of our Ring Road tour, we'll explore the famous Golden Circle. This iconic route includes the UNESCO World Heritage Site Þingvellir National Park, the Geysir geothermal area, and the powerful Gullfoss waterfall.

    After visiting these three top attractions, we'll continue along the South Coast, making our way to our accommodation for the night. Along the journey, we'll stop at the stunning Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss waterfalls, as well as the dramatic Reynisfjara black sand beach, before heading to our accommodation near the village of Kirkjubæjarklaustur.

  2. Day 2

    Vatnajökull & Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon

    Glaciers take center stage today. As we continue our Ring Road journey heading southeast, we'll pass the Mýrdalsjökull glacier and travel through vast lava fields before arriving at Skaftafell, part of Vatnajökull National Park — home to Europe's largest glacier.

    Here, we'll begin our glacier adventure with a guided hike on one of Vatnajökull's outlet glaciers. After the hike, we'll stop at the famous Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon, where you can wander along the shore and take in the extraordinary sight of floating icebergs drifting through the calm waters.

    Tonight's accommodation will be in Southeast Iceland.

  3. Day 3

    East Fjords – Djúpivogur, Egilsstaðir

    Today, we journey through the East Fjords of Iceland, tracing a dramatic coastline shaped by time and isolation. Our route winds along narrow roads around Hvalnes, a striking and remote peninsula, and past the rugged Þvottárskriður landslides between Lón and Álftafjörður.

    Along the way, we pause in Djúpivogur — a charming fishing village rich in tradition. Here, you'll find the captivating outdoor sculpture Eggin í Gleðivík ("The Eggs of Merry Bay"), a tribute to the region's birdlife.

    After a full day of exploration, relax at the Wilderness Center, located just 40 minutes from Egilsstaðir. This distinctive retreat blends comfort with history: explore its wilderness museum, then ease into the soothing hot pots. In winter, the surrounding landscape becomes a stage for the Northern Lights — so be sure to look up and take in the spectacle.

  4. Day 4

    Lake Mývatn Area

    Your journey begins at Stuðlagil Canyon, where towering basalt columns frame a striking turquoise glacial river. From there, you'll cross the remote highlands of Möðrudalur Valley, a vast and rugged wilderness that highlights Iceland's raw beauty.

    Arriving in the Lake Mývatn region, you can unwind in the soothing geothermal waters of the Mývatn Nature Baths. Please note that the entrance fee to the Mývatn Nature Baths is not included. The area's main draw, however, is its extraordinary landscape. Discover Námaskarð, a vivid geothermal field filled with steaming fumaroles and bubbling mud pools. You'll also visit Hverfjall, a near-perfect volcanic crater, and Dimmuborgir, a surreal expanse of lava formations and caves.

    The day concludes at the majestic Goðafoss, a sweeping crescent-shaped waterfall often called the "Waterfall of the Gods." From there, you'll continue to Eyjafjörður, one of Iceland's most beautiful fjords, surrounded by towering mountains.

    You'll spend the night in a countryside hotel in Akureyri, a charming northern fishing town. Between November and March, your guide will also help you find ideal spots nearby to view the Northern Lights.

  5. Day 5

    Whale Watching in North Iceland – Dalvík, Siglufjörður

    We begin the day with a drive through Akureyri, the capital of North Iceland, with time for a short stop on select departures. From there, you'll embark on a whale-watching boat tour across Eyjafjörður, in search of whales, dolphins, and other fascinating marine life. Humpback whales, dolphins, and porpoises are commonly spotted, while seals and blue whales occasionally make an appearance.

    Our journey continues along a scenic coastal road, set between the towering mountains of Iceland's premier ski region and the sweeping beauty of the fjord, as we circle the Tröllaskagi Peninsula. Along the way, we pass through charming villages and quiet hamlets before arriving in Siglufjörður. In the early 20th century, this village was known as the herring fishing capital of the Atlantic, drawing people from afar in a rush reminiscent of a gold boom. Although the herring have long since disappeared, Siglufjörður still preserves the rich history and character of that vibrant era.

    The small communities scattered around the peninsula offer a glimpse into traditional Icelandic life, in places that feel truly remote — almost at the edge of the world.

    Tonight, you will stay at a countryside hotel (such as Hotel Laugarbakki or a similar property).

  6. Day 6

    West Iceland – Borgarfjörður & Return to Reykjavík

    On the sixth and final day of the tour, we travel to Borgarfjörður in West Iceland. This region offers a rich mix of natural beauty and historical significance, and we'll visit some of its most remarkable highlights.

    Our day includes a stop at Deildartunguhver, Europe's most powerful hot spring, followed by visits to two stunning waterfalls: Barnafoss, also known as the "Children's Waterfall," and Hraunfossar, where gentle streams emerge directly from a lava field in a series of delicate cascades.

    We'll also explore Reykholt, a historic site once home to Snorri Sturluson — the renowned medieval historian, poet, and author of several Icelandic sagas.

    Before concluding the day with scenic views over Hvalfjörður (Whale Fjord), we expect to return to Reykjavík at around 17:00–18:00.

What's Included

Accommodation
  • 5 nights accommodation with private bathroom in hotels or guesthouses
Guide & Tours
  • English-speaking tour guide throughout
  • Guided tour in minibus
  • Guided glacier hike on Vatnajökull (April–October)
  • Whale-watching boat tour in Eyjafjörður
  • Visits to Þingvellir, Geysir, Gullfoss, Seljalandsfoss, Skógafoss, Reynisfjara, Skaftafell, Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon, Lake Mývatn, Dimmuborgir, Námaskarð, Goðafoss, Deildartunguhver, Hraunfossar, and more
Meals
  • 5 breakfasts at hotels and guesthouses
Transport
  • Pick-up & drop-off from meeting point in Reykjavík
  • Minibus throughout the tour

Not Included

  • International flights
  • Travel insurance
  • Pre & post tour accommodation
  • Entrance fee to Mývatn Nature Baths
  • Optional experiences
  • Any item, product or service not specifically listed under Included

Additional Information

  • You will receive an e-ticket for this tour.
  • Pick-up is from the designated meeting point in Reykjavík.
  • The guided glacier hike on Vatnajökull operates April–October only.
  • An ice cave visit may be available during winter if accessible.
  • The entrance fee to the Mývatn Nature Baths is not included. Entry must be booked in advance. Towels, swimsuits, and bathrobes are not provided but can be rented on site.
  • Northern Lights sightings may be possible between November and March; your guide will assist in finding suitable viewing spots.
  • What to bring — footwear: Hiking shoes are required. They must be sturdy, have good ankle support, and thick soles suitable for walking on volcanic rock and fitting crampons for glacier hikes. Timberland-style shoes will not be accepted.
  • What to bring — clothing: Waterproof pants and a waterproof jacket are essential.
  • Tour reference code: 347592

Dates & Availability

Frequently Asked Questions