Reykjavik: 8-Day Iceland Ring Road Guided Small Group Tour

Discover Iceland with this comprehensive 8-day guided small group tour that follows the iconic Ring Road around the island. Offered by Snæland Travel, this tour offers an engaging way to explore Iceland’s most spectacular sights, including Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon, the Golden Circle, and the Snæfellsnes Peninsula. Priced offering excellent value, the trip includes carefully selected, highly-rated hotels and a professional, English-speaking guide.

The journey is designed for travelers who want a comfortable, well-organized experience that covers Iceland’s diverse landscapes, from glaciers and waterfalls to volcanic craters and black sand beaches. The tour is suitable for those prepared for long travel days and who enjoy small-group intimacy with plenty of expert insights. However, it’s not ideal for travelers with mobility issues, as some activities and walking involved may be challenging.

Key Points

• 8 days exploring Iceland’s top sights on a guided small group tour
• Stay in best-rated hotels throughout the trip for comfort
• Visit Snæfellsnes Peninsula, often called “Iceland in Miniature”
• See Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon and Diamond Beach up close
• Discover the Golden Circle with Gullfoss, Geysir, and Þingvellir National Park
• Optional Blue Lagoon visit available on the final night

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Start in Reykjavík and Enjoy Your First Icelandic Night

The tour begins in Reykjavík, Iceland’s lively capital, with accommodation arranged in quality hotels. Once checked in, there’s time to relax and soak in your first impressions of Iceland’s vibrant atmosphere. The detailed itinerary allows you to add an airport transfer during booking, ensuring smooth travel from the airport to your hotel. This initial evening sets the tone for the adventure ahead, with a welcoming environment to meet your guide and fellow travelers.

Full-Day Snæfellsnes Peninsula Tour: Iceland in Miniature

On Day 2, the tour departs early for a full-day exploration of the Snæfellsnes Peninsula. Often called “Iceland in Miniature”, this area packs volcanic craters, rock arches, black beaches, and mountain peaks into a relatively small space. The guide leads you through Borgarnes to Ytri Tunga Beach, where a seal colony is a highlight.

Other stops include Djúpalónssandur, a striking black sand beach, and the Hólahólar craters. The Arnarstapi cliffs offer breathtaking views, and the tour concludes at Kirkjufell Mountain and Kirkjufellsfoss Waterfall, known for their photogenic scenery. The return to Reykjavík is comfortable, with plenty of opportunities to ask questions and enjoy the landscapes.

Journey from Reykjavík to North Iceland’s Capital, Akureyri

On Day 3, the guide takes travelers north via the Hvalfjörður Tunnel to Borgarnes and then across Skagafjörður Fjord, famous for Icelandic horses. The visit to the Glaumbær Turf Museum offers insight into traditional farm life, showcasing historic turf buildings and local heritage.

The afternoon involves crossing the Öxnadalsheiði plateau to reach Akureyri, known as Iceland’s second city. This charming town provides a different vibe from Reykjavík, with scenic streets and a lively harbor. The optional visit to the Forest Lagoon geothermal spa offers a relaxing experience after a day of travel, and overnight accommodations are in Akureyri.

Exploring Lake Mývatn’s Geothermal Marvels and Waterfalls

Day 4 focuses on the Lake Mývatn area, renowned for geothermal activity and volcanic landscapes. The guide leads you to Goðafoss, a powerful waterfall often called the “Waterfall of the Gods.” You then visit Dimmuborgir lava fields, famous for striking lava formations, and the Skútustaðagígar pseudocraters.

Other key stops include Grjótagjá lava cave and the bubbling Námaskarð mud pools, providing a vivid picture of Iceland’s volcanic activity. The day also features Dettifoss, Europe’s most powerful waterfall, before heading to Egilsstaðir for the night. The diversity of geothermal features and spectacular waterfalls makes this day particularly memorable.

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The East Fjords’ Scenic Coastline and Reindeer Encounters

Day 5 covers the East Fjords, a region characterized by steep mountains, fjords, and fishing villages. The group drives along the coast, enjoying views of clear lakes and flying reindeer roaming in the wild. This part of the trip highlights Iceland’s remote beauty away from more tourist-heavy areas.

In the afternoon, travelers have the option to participate in a Glacier Jeep Adventure on Vatnajökull Glacier. This optional activity involves a Jeep ride over the glacier’s surface, adding an adventurous element to the journey. Overnight stays are in Höfn, a town known for its lobster and ocean views.

Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon and the South Coast’s Waterfalls

Day 6 features a visit to Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon, where floating icebergs create a mesmerizing scene. Nearby, Diamond Beach showcases glittering ice chunks scattered on black sand. The tour continues through Vatnajökull National Park, passing Iceland’s highest peak, Hvannadalshnúkur.

In the afternoon, the tour visits Reynisfjara, a stunning black sand beach with Basalt columns and sea stacks. The day concludes with stops at Skógafoss and Seljalandsfoss, two of Iceland’s most iconic waterfalls. These sights highlight Iceland’s dynamic volcanic and glacial landscape.

The Golden Circle and Optional Blue Lagoon on the Final Night

Day 7 covers the famous Golden Circle, including Gullfoss Waterfall, the Geysir geothermal area, and Þingvellir National Park, where tectonic plates meet. The guide provides insights into Iceland’s geological history at each stop.

In the evening, travelers can choose to visit the Blue Lagoon (additional cost), with transfers included, where a silica mud mask and a drink enhance the experience. This optional visit offers a relaxing way to unwind before heading back to Reykjavík for the last night.

Departure from Keflavík Airport: Farewell to Iceland

On Day 8, the tour concludes with a relaxed morning before transferring to Keflavík Airport. The comprehensive 8-day journey leaves travelers with lasting memories of Iceland’s stunning scenery and diverse landscapes, all experienced in a small-group setting that balances comfort and adventure.

Reykjavik: Starting Point and Hotel Arrangements

The tour begins in Reykjavík, with hotel accommodations arranged in advance. The group meets at the hotel reception between 08:45 and 09:00 for the main circle tour. The meeting point is located at coordinates 64.14698791503906, -21.94075584411621. Early pickups from hotel or nearby bus stops are scheduled between 07:30 and 08:00 on Day 2.

Practical Details and Booking Flexibility

This 8-day tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before departure, providing flexibility. Travelers can reserve now and pay later without any upfront cost, making planning easier. The tour is conducted in English with a live guide, and small group sizes ensure a more personalized experience.

The tour is not suitable for people with mobility impairments and involves long travel days with some activities dependent on weather conditions. Travelers should prepare for comfortable shoes, warm clothing, and weather-appropriate attire.

What Sets This Tour Apart

The combination of a well-curated itinerary, quality hotel stays, and an expert guide makes this tour stand out. The inclusion of optional activities like the Glacier Jeep Adventure and the Blue Lagoon allows for customization. The small-group format fosters a more engaging atmosphere, with ample opportunity for questions and personalized attention.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is airport transfer included in the tour price?
Airport transfer can be added during the booking process for convenience.

Can I participate in the Glacier Jeep Adventure?
Yes, the Jeep Adventure is optional and requires a minimum of 4 participants to proceed. If the minimum is not reached, the activity is refunded.

Are the hotel accommodations comfortable?
Yes, the tour stays in carefully chosen, best-rated hotels throughout Iceland.

Is this tour suitable for travelers with mobility issues?
No, the tour is not suitable for people with mobility impairments due to the nature of activities and walking involved.

What is included in the Blue Lagoon option?
The Blue Lagoon visit includes transfers, entrance fee, silica mask, towel, and a drink (additional cost).

How flexible is the booking?
Travelers can reserve now and pay later, and cancel for a full refund if done 24 hours in advance.

This 8-day Iceland Ring Road tour offers a practical, well-organized way to see Iceland’s most iconic sights comfortably. It’s ideal for those seeking a guided experience with local insights and the chance to explore diverse landscapes in a small-group setting.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby