7-Day Complete Iceland: South Coast, Golden Circle, Akureyri & Snaefellsnes

Discover Iceland in 7 Days with a Guided Tour from Reykjavik

This 7-Day Complete Iceland Tour from Reykjavik offers an in-depth exploration of Iceland’s most iconic locations, including the South Coast, Golden Circle, Akureyri, and Snaefellsnes Peninsula. Priced at $2,721.96 per person, the tour provides a comprehensive experience with six nights’ accommodation including breakfast, making it a convenient way to see Iceland without the hassle of planning logistics or booking hotels.

Starting early each day, the tour is designed for those who want to see a lot in a relatively short time while enjoying the comfort of a small group experience. The average booking time of 73 days in advance indicates good interest and reliability, with pickup and drop-off from select Reykjavik hotels included. The tour features everything from stunning waterfalls and glaciers to geothermal hot springs, with the added bonus of insightful guides.

While the journey covers extensive ground, it also balances sightseeing with enough time to truly appreciate each site. The tour is suited for travelers who prefer a structured, guided experience that takes care of transportation, accommodation, and itinerary planning, especially if they want to maximize their Iceland adventure in one trip.

Key Points

• 7 days of guided exploration covering Iceland’s most famous regions and sights
• Includes 6 nights’ accommodation with breakfast, no need to book hotels separately
• Visits iconic locations like the Golden Circle, Vatnajokull Glacier, and Kirkjufell Mountain
• Small group size ensures a more personal experience with insightful guides
• Pickup and drop-off from select Reykjavik hotels make logistics easy
• Optional add-ons include Myvatn Nature Baths and lava caving, available for extra cost

Starting Your Iceland Adventure with the Golden Circle Route

The tour begins with a morning pickup from Reykjavik, leading straight into the Golden Circle, Iceland’s most popular sightseeing route. The first stop is Thingvellir National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its geological and historical significance. Here, visitors can observe the rift between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates.

Next, the guide leads travelers to Geysir, where the famous Strokkur geyser erupts regularly, shooting water high into the air. The last Golden Circle stop is Gullfoss waterfall, a powerful cascade that exemplifies Iceland’s dramatic waterfalls. The Golden Circle provides a fantastic introduction to Iceland’s natural wonders, all with free admission.

The day continues along the South Coast, starting with Seljalandsfoss, a waterfall famous for the pathway behind the cascade. Visitors can walk behind this 60-meter fall, offering a memorable perspective. Nearby is Skogafoss, another majestic waterfall with a width of 25 meters and a drop of 60 meters, often creating rainbows on sunny days.

A visit to Reynisfjara Beach caps off the day, where the black sand, Reynisdrangar sea stacks, and Basalt columns create a striking landscape. This site is one of Iceland’s top attractions and perfect for photography or a leisurely walk along the beach.

Exploring Vatnajokull Glacier and Its Surroundings

On the second day, the tour ventures further east to Skaftafell National Park, where a certified glacier guide leads a short glacier hike. This activity offers a rare chance to walk on Vatnajokull’s outlet glaciers, experiencing Iceland’s icy wilderness firsthand.

Following the glacier adventure, travelers visit the Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon, famous for its floating icebergs that drift serenely in the lagoon’s waters. This natural spectacle is a highlight of the trip. Just across from the lagoon lies Diamond Beach, where ice chunks wash ashore on the black sand, creating a surreal scene.

These stops showcase Iceland’s stunning glacial landscapes and unique ice formations, with admission included for the glacier hike but free for the lagoon and beach. The day ends at a comfortable accommodation in the southeast, near these spectacular sights.

Journeying Through the East Fjords

Day three shifts focus to the East Fjords, a less traveled but incredibly scenic region. The journey begins with a fishing village stop in Djúpivogur, a charming spot with a relaxed atmosphere and traditional Icelandic charm. Travelers have 30 minutes to explore or take photos.

The afternoon includes a visit to the Wilderness Center, where visitors can experience the Icelandic wilderness, learn about local flora and fauna, and relax in hot pots. Staying overnight in the Egilsstadir area, this stop offers a peaceful contrast to busier destinations.

The East Fjords are known for their twisting coastal roads, rugged mountains, and tranquil fjords, making this day a visual feast for nature lovers. The tour emphasizes the region’s untouched beauty and local culture.

Discovering the Geothermal and Lava Features Near Akureyri

Day four begins in Akureyri, Iceland’s second-largest city, with a focus on geothermal activity and volcanic landscapes. The group visits Mt. Namafjall (Namaskard) hot springs for 30 minutes, where bubbling mud pots and steaming fumaroles showcase Iceland’s geothermal power.

Next, Dimmuborgir lava formations are explored, a surreal landscape of volcanic caves and black lava fields. The guide highlights the area’s dramatic formations, which are easily accessible and perfect for photos. The day continues with a visit to Hverfjall, a volcanic crater that offers spectacular views from its rim.

The highlight of the day is the Studlagil canyon, a basalt column canyon with turquoise waters running through it. Located in the upper Jökuldalur Valley, this sight is renowned for its towering basalt formations and the scenic river below. The admission is included.

Whale Watching from Dalvik and Exploring North Iceland

Day five features an exciting whale watching tour from Dalvik, where the group has a 3-hour experience searching for whales and other marine life. Iceland’s waters are a prime location for spotting these gentle giants, and the tour offers a chance to see them in their natural habitat.

After the whale tour, the journey continues to Siglufjörður, a historic fishing town with a quaint harbor and colorful buildings. Visitors spend 30 minutes exploring or enjoying local sights before heading southward. The day concludes at a cozy accommodation near Borgarnes.

This day combines marine adventure with cultural exploration, taking advantage of North Iceland’s diverse scenery.

Visiting Waterfalls, Volcano Craters, and Historic Sites in Borgarfjörður

Day six explores the Borgarfjörður area, a region praised for its natural beauty and historical significance. The tour stops at Hraunfossar, a series of waterfalls where cold waters flow from beneath lava fields, creating a mesmerizing curtain of water.

Next, travelers visit Reykholt, a site linked to the medieval scholar Snorri Sturluson. Here, visitors can see Snorralaug, a geothermal hot spring pool, and learn about Icelandic sagas and history. The region also features geothermal activity and scenic waterfalls, making it a rich area for exploration.

The day allows for a short hike up to Grábrók, a volcanic crater, providing panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. The day ends with a restful overnight in the area.

Exploring Snaefellsnes Peninsula and the Iconic Kirkjufell

The final day on the tour focuses on the Snaefellsnes Peninsula, often called “Iceland in Miniature” because of its diverse landscapes. The first stop is Arnarstapi, a charming village with rugged coastlines and coastal birdlife, where visitors can enjoy a 20-minute walk.

Next, the group visits Kirkjufell Mountain, one of Iceland’s most photographed peaks, known for its distinctive shape and waterfalls nearby. This iconic mountain provides a perfect photo opportunity before returning to Reykjavik.

The tour also includes a visit to Deildartunguhver, a powerful thermal spring, and Reykholt, to connect with Iceland’s medieval past. The journey offers a scenic farewell to Iceland’s natural beauty and cultural landmarks.

Final Remarks on the 7-Day Iceland Tour

This 7-day guided tour offers a well-rounded experience of Iceland’s most famous sights and lesser-known gems. The inclusion of accommodation, breakfast, and transportation makes it a convenient choice for travelers wanting to see a lot without the stress of planning. The tour’s focus on small groups and personalized guide services enhances the experience, according to positive reviews that highlight knowledgeable guides and stunning scenery.

While some travelers note that the last day in Borgarnes might feel brief, overall, the itinerary balances travel time and sightseeing well. The friendly pace allows visitors to appreciate Iceland’s landscapes, geothermal features, waterfalls, glaciers, and cultural sites comfortably.

This tour is especially suited for those eager to explore Iceland thoroughly within a week, valuing guided logistics and staying in comfortable accommodations. It suits travelers of most ages, with most activities being accessible and manageable, but strong hiking shoes are recommended for glacier and crater activities.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, the minimum age is 8 years old, making it suitable for families with children.

What’s included in the price?
The tour includes accommodation for 6 nights, breakfast, transportation, and visits to key sites. It does not include food and drinks (except breakfast), and optional activities like Myvatn Nature Baths are extra.

Can I upgrade to a single room?
Yes, solo travelers can contact the operator after booking to upgrade to a single room for an additional fee.

What should I bring?
Warm layers, waterproof clothing, hiking shoes, a camera, and swimwear for hot springs are recommended.

How many people are in each group?
The tour operates with a maximum of 18 travelers, providing a small-group experience.

Is the tour flexible?
Most bookings are confirmed at least 6 days in advance, and cancellations are possible with full refund if done 6 days before the start.

Are there any optional activities?
Yes, admission to Myvatn Nature Baths and lava caving at Vatnshellir Cave** can be arranged for an extra cost.

What makes this tour stand out?
The combination of extensive sightseeing, comfortable logistics, and insightful guides makes this tour a solid choice for travelers looking to see Iceland’s highlights in one organized package.