6 Day Iceland Ring Road Highlights Tour With Accommodation

Explore Iceland with a 6-Day Ring Road Tour Priced at $1,965

This 6-day Iceland Ring Road Highlights Tour offers an extensive journey through Iceland’s most celebrated sights, with hotel accommodations for five nights included. Priced at $1,965 per person, the tour departs from Reykjavik and covers a diverse range of landscapes, from waterfalls and glaciers to geothermal areas and volcanic formations. The tour’s pacing is designed to showcase Iceland’s highlights without feeling rushed, making it ideal for travelers seeking a comprehensive experience in a manageable timeframe.

What sets this tour apart is its inclusion of major attractions along the entire ring road, including the Golden Circle, the South Coast waterfalls, the Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon, and the Diamond Beach. For those opting for the Deluxe package, additional experiences such as the Katla Ice Cave, Vök Baths, and a whale watching tour are included. The tour features professional guide services, WiFi onboard, and admission tickets for many stops, making it a practical and immersive way to see Iceland.

One important consideration is the tour’s group size, limited to 18 travelers, ensuring a more personal experience. Meals besides breakfast are not included, so planning for lunches or dinners is recommended. This tour is well-suited for travelers who want a rundown of Iceland’s natural beauty without the hassle of independent planning.

Key Points

• 6-day guided tour covering Iceland’s ring road, from Reykjavík to the northern and eastern regions
• Hotel accommodations for 5 nights with private bathrooms
• Major stops include Þingvellir National Park, Geysir, Gullfoss, Seljalandsfoss, Skógafoss, Reynisfjara Beach, Jökulsárlón, Diamond Beach, Dettifoss, Goðafoss, and Akureyri
• Optional Deluxe package includes Katla Ice Cave, Vök Baths, and whale watching
• Tour starts at 9:00 am from Höfðatorg in Reykjavík and ends back there
• Guided by knowledgeable professionals with WiFi and parking included
• Designed for up to 18 travelers, balancing group intimacy with efficiency
• Breakfasts included for all 5 mornings; other meals are not covered
• Advance booking recommended, with bookings opening 81 days in advance

Starting the Icelandic Adventure in Þingvellir National Park

The tour kicks off with a pickup in Reykjavík before heading to Þingvellir National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site. This location is not only historically significant but also features impressive geological formations, including the rift valley where the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates meet. The admission ticket for Þingvellir is included, allowing ample time to explore the rugged landscapes and learn about Iceland’s early parliamentary history.

Next, the guide takes you to Geysir, where the famous Strokkur geyser erupts regularly, shooting scalding water into the air. This geothermal area is free to access and offers a captivating display of Iceland’s geothermal activity. Afterward, Gullfoss Waterfall impresses with its powerful cascade plunging into a deep canyon, showcasing Iceland’s natural force.

The day continues with a short stop in Hvolsvöllur, where snacks, drinks, and bathroom facilities are available, setting a comfortable pace for the group as you journey southward.

Visiting Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss Waterfalls

The South Coast reveals two of Iceland’s most iconic waterfalls. At Seljalandsfoss, visitors can walk behind the waterfall’s curtain, providing a unique perspective and perfect photo opportunities. The admission is included, and the experience offers a sense of Iceland’s untouched natural power.

Next, Skógafoss dazzles with its towering height and thundering water. Standing at the base, the mist creates a refreshing atmosphere, and the surrounding area is ideal for capturing dramatic landscape shots. Both waterfalls are essential stops for those wanting to witness Iceland’s natural grandeur firsthand.

After this, the tour visits Reynisfjara Beach, famous for its black sand, towering basalt columns, and sea stacks. The dramatic scenery and folklore associated with the beach make it a compelling stop, with admission included.

Exploring the South Coast’s Glacier and Canyons

On day two, the journey continues to Vík, a charming coastal village. This area provides an excellent vantage point of the Reynisdrangar sea stacks and the black sands that have become Iceland’s signature landscape.

A highlight is the Katla Ice Cave, accessible via a 3-hour guided tour included in the Deluxe option. Inside, travelers will marvel at the stunning blue hues and intricate ice formations carved by glacial forces near the volcano Katla.

The adventure then takes you to Fjaðrárgljúfur Canyon, a winding river carving through steep moss-covered cliffs, creating a picturesque setting for photography and short walks. Afterwards, the Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon offers floating icebergs and shimmering waters, with admission free, and a short walk to the adjacent Diamond Beach reveals ice fragments scattered along the black sands—each piece resembling a sparkling gem.

Journeying into East Iceland’s Natural and Cultural Gems

On day three, the route heads east to Djúpivogur, a tranquil harbor village with a scenic coastline and cultural attractions like the Eggs of Merry Baya art installation. Then, Egilsstaðir serves as a gateway to the region’s natural wonders, including Lagarfljót Lake and the Hallormsstaður Forest.

In the summer months, Borgarfjörður Eystri is visited, known for its bird cliffs and puffin nesting sites. In winter, the focus shifts to exploring other fishing villages along the coast, maintaining the tour’s emphasis on authentic Icelandic life.

The day concludes with a relaxing visit to Vök Baths—although admission is not included—where floating geothermal pools, a sauna, and a cold water spray tunnel offer a rejuvenating experience just minutes from Egilsstaðir.

East Iceland’s Geological Marvels and Waterfalls

Day four features Stuðlagil Canyon, with its striking basalt columns and vivid geological formations. The 40-minute admission allows travelers to experience this surreal landscape.

Next, the tour visits Dettifoss, Europe’s most powerful waterfall, with a 1-hour stop. The roaring waters and rugged canyon surroundings highlight Iceland’s ability to create awe-inspiring natural displays.

Further northeast, Námaskarð geothermal area provides a 40-minute walk among bubbling mud pots and steaming fumaroles—a landscape that looks like another planet. The day ends at Dimmuborgir, a lava formation area with towering pillars, caves, and arches, perfect for wandering and photography.

The Wonders of North Iceland: Waterfalls, Volcanoes, and Whales

The fifth day introduces travelers to Akureyri, the second-largest city in Iceland, known for its vibrant cultural scene and whale watching tours. Here, the group can expect to see humpback whales, orcas, and minke whales in the fjord, with guides and vessels providing expert sightings.

Additional stops include Hvítserkur, a unique basalt rock formation resembling a petrified creature, and Kolugljúfur, a scenic canyon with waterfalls and lush scenery. Each stop represents a different facet of Iceland’s coastal and geological diversity.

West Iceland’s Lava Fields and Waterfalls

The final day explores Reykholt, historically linked to Snorri Sturluson, Iceland’s medieval scholar. The site features the Snorrastofa center and the hot spring Snorrabaug.

The tour continues with visits to Deildartunguhver, Europe’s most powerful hot spring, and Hraunfossar, known for its water streaming through porous lava. Reykholt and Deildartunguhver highlight Iceland’s geothermal energy, making this region a key example of sustainable energy sources.

Finally, stops at Glanni Waterfall and Grábrók Crater reveal more of Iceland’s volcanic landscapes, with short hikes and scenic views to round off the trip.

The Sum Up: A Well-Rounded Icelandic Journey

This 6-day guided tour offers a detailed and flexible overview of Iceland’s top natural attractions, with a focus on geological wonders, waterfalls, and coastal scenery. The inclusion of accommodation for five nights makes it a convenient way to explore without the stress of independent lodging.

The optional Deluxe package enhances the experience with Katla Ice Cave, Vök Baths, and whale watching**, providing added value for those seeking extra adventures. The tour’s small group size ensures a more personal experience, complemented by expert guides who share insightful stories and background.

While the tour does not include meals beyond breakfast, the availability of plenty of scenic stops makes it easy to plan lunches and dinners along the route. This tour is ideal for travelers interested in Iceland’s natural landscapes who prefer a comprehensive, guided experience with plenty of photo opportunities and geological marvels.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the price of this tour?
The tour costs $1,965 per person.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 6 days.

What are the main stops on the itinerary?
Key stops include Þingvellir National Park, Geysir, Gullfoss, Seljalandsfoss, Skógafoss, Reynisfjara Beach, Jökulsárlón, Diamond Beach, Dettifoss, Goðafoss, Akureyri, and Hraunfossar.

Are meals included?
Only breakfasts are included; other meals are not part of the package.

Is the tour suitable for solo travelers?
Yes, single rooms are available for solo travelers, with options to share if preferred.

Can the tour be canceled?
Yes, cancellations are accepted up to 6 days in advance for a full refund.

What is included in the deluxe option?
The Deluxe tour includes Katla Ice Cave, Vök Baths, and a whale watching tour.

How many travelers are on each tour?
The maximum group size is 18 travelers, ensuring a comfortable group experience.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at Höfðatorg in Reykjavík and concludes at the same meeting point.

What is the recommended booking time?
Most bookings are made 81 days in advance, so early reservations are advised for guaranteed spots.