6-Day Minibus Tour Around Iceland from Reykjavik

The 6-Day Minibus Tour Around Iceland from Reykjavik offers an in-depth exploration of Iceland’s most breathtaking natural sights without the stress of self-driving. Priced at $2,421.41 per person, this tour is ideal for those who want a comprehensive experience packed with iconic landmarks, adventurous activities, and the comfort of a small group. The tour departs from Reykjavik and spans roughly 6 days, making it a perfect choice for travelers seeking a well-paced, all-encompassing Iceland adventure. With a 5.0 rating based on 420 reviews, it clearly resonates with past participants, who praise the guides, the itinerary, and the seamless organization.

While the tour covers an impressive array of Iceland’s natural wonders, it is designed for those comfortable with some physical activity, such as glacier hiking and boat trips. The included pickup from Reykjavik accommodation and WiFi onboard add to the convenience, though additional costs for optional activities like horseback riding and Vök Baths should be considered. This tour balances sightseeing, adventure, and relaxation, making it well-suited for travelers eager to experience Iceland’s diverse landscapes without the hassle of planning every detail.

Key Points

• All-inclusive 6-day Iceland tour with stops at major landmarks like Gullfoss, Geysir, and Lake Mývatn
• Activities include glacier hiking, ice cave exploration, whale watching, and optional horseback riding
• Hassle-free pickup from Reykjavik and small group sizes enhance comfort and personalized experience
• Includes safety equipment for ice cave visits and glacier hikes, ensuring safe adventure experiences
• Price of $2,421.41 covers five nights of accommodation and most activities
• Most travelers book 109 days in advance for this popular and highly-rated tour

Exploring Iceland’s Iconic Waterfalls and Geysir Geothermal Area

The tour begins in Reykjavik, with Day 1 dedicated to visiting Gullfoss Waterfall, the “Golden Waterfall,” renowned for its powerful cascades and scenic surroundings. Next is the Geysir geothermal area, home to the famous erupting Geysir and bubbling hot springs, offering impressive geothermal displays. The day concludes at Thingvellir National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site where you can walk between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates.

On Day 2, the tour continues along Iceland’s south coast to see Seljalandsfoss and Skogafoss waterfalls. These waterfalls are notable for their size and the opportunities to walk behind or get close to their roaring waters. The day features a visit to Reynisfjara, the Black Sand Beach, known for its striking volcanic sands, sea stacks, and powerful Atlantic waves. The highlight is a glacier hiking tour at Solheimajokull Glacier, where participants trek across icy terrain mixed with volcanic ash, feeling like they’ve landed on the moon for about 3 hours.

Day 3: Visiting Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon and Ice Caves

Day 3 takes travelers eastward to see Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon, where floating icebergs create a surreal scene. Walking along the lagoon, visitors are treated to views of shimmering ice formations. The tour also includes a visit to Vatnajokull Glacier, where a super truck transports guests into a blue ice cave—a breathtaking natural wonder that showcases the ever-changing ice formations within Europe’s largest glacier. This 3-hour exploration provides a glimpse into Iceland’s icy underworld, with safety equipment included for all visitors.

Day 4: Eastern Fjords and Wildlife Encounters

The journey shifts to the serene East Fjords, with a stop at Lagarfljót lake, famous for its mythical monster sightings. The area offers chances to spot wild reindeer, unique to this region, and marvel at high mountain ridges and towering Vatnajökull in the distance. Optional activities include horseback riding at Finnsstaðir Horse Rental, where visitors can meet Icelandic horses, a charming and traditional experience, though this activity is not included in the base price.

Day 5: Geothermal Hot Springs and Volcanic Landscapes

Day 5 emphasizes relaxation and volcanic scenery. Travelers can opt to visit Vök Baths, a geothermal hot spring at Egilstaðir, to soak in warm waters and unwind (additional fee applies). The day also features visits to Námaskarð Geothermal Area, with steaming vents and bubbling mud pools, and the Dimmuborgir Lava Formations, home to folklore creatures like trolls and elves. The journey culminates at Lake Mývatn, known for its volcanic landscapes and birdlife, and concludes with a stop at Godafoss Waterfall, one of Iceland’s most famous waterfalls.

Day 6: Whale Watching and Return to Reykjavik

The final day begins in the charming town of Hauganes, where a 3-hour whale watching tour is included in the itinerary. Passengers have the opportunity to see humpback whales and other marine life from a comfortable boat. Afterward, the group heads back to Reykjavik, completing the tour with a scenic drive through North Iceland.

Logistics and Group Experience

This tour operates with a maximum of 18 travelers, ensuring a small, intimate group environment. The pickup and drop-off are available from designated bus stops or Reykjavik accommodations, making logistics straightforward. A professional, friendly English-speaking guide leads the group, sharing insights about each location and Icelandic culture. WiFi onboard helps keep everyone connected during the journey.

Included Activities and Optional Extras

Included in the package are ice cave tours and glacier hikes, both with safety equipment provided to ensure secure exploration. The Hauganes whale watching tour is also part of the package, giving travelers a chance to see Iceland’s marine life. Optional extras include horseback riding, Vök Baths, and equipment rentals such as waterproof jackets, pants, and hiking boots—these are paid separately.

Accommodation and Dining

The tour covers five nights of accommodation, with breakfast included each morning, providing a good start to busy days of sightseeing. Meals like lunch and dinner are not included, so travelers should plan for those expenses separately, especially in more remote locations.

Pacing and Physical Demands

The itinerary balances sightseeing with some physical activity, particularly glacier hiking and ice cave exploration. Stops generally last around 30 minutes at each site, with some longer activities like whale watching and glacier exploring lasting several hours. The tour is suited for active travelers comfortable with walking and outdoor adventures, though rentals for hiking gear are available for purchase if needed.

Final Thoughts on the Icelandic 6-Day Minibus Tour

This tour offers a comprehensive and well-organized way to experience Iceland’s highlights in just six days. The mix of iconic waterfalls, glaciers, volcanic sites, and whale watching ensures a varied adventure. The small group size and professional guides contribute to a personalized feel, while the included activities add excitement and unique insights into Iceland’s natural wonders.

While the itinerary is packed, the pace remains manageable, and the seamless logistics mean travelers can focus on enjoying each location. The price reflects the quality of experiences and inclusions, especially with activities like ice caves and glacier hikes. This tour is perfect for those who want an immersive Iceland experience without the hassle of planning every detail themselves.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation included in the tour price?
Yes, the tour includes minibus transportation throughout the trip, with pickup and drop-off from Reykjavik accommodations or designated bus stops.

Are meals included during the 6 days?
No, lunch and dinner are not included, but breakfast is provided for five mornings.

Can I participate in the glacier hike and ice cave tour?
Yes, both activities are included with safety equipment provided, allowing safe exploration of these icy marvels.

What optional activities can I add?
Optional extras include horseback riding at Finnsstaðir Horse Rental and relaxing at Vök Baths, both for additional fees. Equipment rentals for hiking and waterproof gear are also available.

Who is this tour best suited for?
This tour is ideal for active travelers who want a thorough Iceland experience, enjoy outdoor adventures like glacier hiking and whale watching, and prefer small-group tours with expert guides.