Small Group Tour of Valley of Tears and Highlands adventure

Discover the Small Group Tour of Iceland’s Valley of Tears and Highlands

For those eager to see the less-traveled parts of Iceland, this small group tour offers an intimate adventure through the highlands near Reykjavik. Priced at $252.21 per person and lasting approximately 10 hours, it combines visits to striking waterfalls, volcanic landscapes, and hidden canyon spots. The tour features pickup service and operates with a maximum of 15 travelers, ensuring a personalized experience. With consistent 5-star reviews and a recommended status by 100% of previous participants, this excursion stands out for its access to exclusive locations, knowledgeable guidance, and a carefully curated itinerary.

This tour is ideal for nature lovers, photographers, or adventurers wanting to explore Iceland’s rugged terrain without the hassle of self-driving or large tour groups. It offers a mix of stunning scenery, informative guides, and comfortable logistics, making it a compelling choice for a full-day escape into the Icelandic highlands. While it doesn’t include lunch or snacks, a lunch stop at the Hrauneyjar highland center provides a welcome break and a chance to recharge amidst this otherworldly landscape.

Key Points

• Small group size of up to 15 participants ensures a more personal experience and faster travel between stops.
• Visits to iconic waterfalls like Haifoss, one of Iceland’s highest, and Sigoldufoss at the valley of tears.
• Exploration of Gjain oasis, a lush area with waterfalls and an old farm, known for being a filming location.
• Includes a lunch stop at Hrauneyjar highland center, with options to suit different tastes.
• Venture around the volcano Hekla, with a safe exploration of the desolate area nearby.
• Pricing at $252.21, with parking fees included and no additional costs for admission at stops.
• Flexible booking and cancellation policy, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

Exploring Iceland’s High Highlands and Waterfalls

This tour begins at the BSÍ Parking in Reykjavík at 8:30 am, with pickup available from your hotel or nearby location. The journey immediately sets off into the Icelandic highlands, a landscape characterized by canyons, waterfalls, and volcanic features. The first stop at Gjain offers a peaceful oasis with small waterfalls and an old farm, famously known as a filming location for Game of Thrones. The walk to the Gjain oasis extends about 500 meters, and outdoor shoes are recommended to comfortably explore this lush setting.

Next, the guide leads the group to Haifoss, one of Iceland’s highest waterfalls. Accessible via rocky gravel roads, the drive itself provides a rugged adventure. Upon reaching the parking area, visitors walk to a viewpoint that offers a stunning vantage point into the Þjórsárdalur valley. There’s approximately 30 minutes at this stop to take photos and appreciate the magnificent waterfall.

Highlights of the Highland Lunch Stop at Hrauneyjar

Midway through the day, the tour pauses at the Hrauneyjar highland center for a 40-minute lunch break. This location offers a small but well-curated selection of food, making it an ideal place to relax before continuing the exploration of more remote sites. The stop provides a chance to enjoy warm drinks, snacks, or a sit-down meal as the group discusses the morning’s sights.

After lunch, the group visits Sigoldufoss, a small waterfall distinguished by its vivid blue color at the highlands’ entrance. This stop is brief, lasting about 15 minutes, but offers an eye-catching view that makes for excellent photographs. The nearby Valley of Tears (Sigoldufoss canyon) is the tour’s highlight for many, featuring a series of small waterfalls and a green-blue water hue. Over 35 minutes, visitors explore the canyon from above, soaking in its serene, dramatic beauty and capturing images of hidden Iceland.

Exploring the Volcano Hekla’s Desolate Surroundings

The final adventure stop involves a 10-minute exploration around Volcano Hekla, one of Iceland’s most famous volcanoes. The group stays at a safe distance to admire the desolate landscape created by volcanic activity. This brief encounter offers a powerful visual of Iceland’s volcanic strength and geological history.

Practical Details and Group Experience

The tour includes parking fees and operates most days, with free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start. The meeting point at BSÍ Parking in Reykjavík is convenient, and the start time of 8:30 am allows for a full day of exploration. The maximum group size of 15 travelers fosters an intimate atmosphere, enabling more meaningful interaction with the guide and less time waiting during stops.

The guides receive high praise for their knowledge, friendliness, and ability to find exclusive spots. The tours are designed to avoid tourist crowds, offering access to less-visited waterfalls and canyons that are hard to reach on larger bus tours.

The Guide and Guest Experience

Based on reviews, the guides are often described as informative, funny, and considerate. Guides like Thor and Otto the Viking are known for their storytelling and attention to safety, especially when navigating off-road terrain. Many reviewers highlight the personalized attention, flexibility (such as finding alternative stops when weather conditions change), and the passion guides show for Iceland’s landscapes.

Travelers also appreciate the opportunity to photograph sites with fewer travelers, making this tour especially appealing for photographers or those seeking more authentic Icelandic scenery. The small group setup ensures more time at each stop, avoiding the rush often associated with larger tours.

Who Should Book This Tour?

This tour is perfect for those who want an in-depth, personal experience of Iceland’s highlands without the challenge of self-driving or navigating rough terrain alone. It suits adventurers keen on waterfalls and volcanic landscapes, and photographers looking for unique shots. The limited walking at some stops makes it accessible for most, but outdoor shoes are recommended for exploration.

However, those with limited mobility should note the off-road driving and short walks involved. The lunch stop provides a relaxing break, but expect no included snacks or drinks, so packing a small refreshment might be wise.

Final Thoughts on the Valley of Tears and Highlands Tour

This 10-hour, small-group tour offers exceptional access to Iceland’s highlands with an expert guide ensuring a personalized experience. The combination of stunning waterfalls, volcanic landscapes, and hidden canyon spots makes it stand out from standard day trips. The high praise from past guests underscores the quality of guides and the scenic diversity on offer.

While it does not include lunch or snacks, the lunch stop at Hrauneyjar is a comfortable break in the day’s adventure. The small group size and flexible itinerary—adjusted for weather or road conditions—make it a reliable choice for off-the-beaten-path exploration. This tour especially benefits photographers, nature lovers, and those seeking authentic Icelandic landscapes away from crowds.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the price of this tour?
The tour costs $252.21 per person, with parking fees included.

How long does the tour last?
It lasts approximately 10 hours, starting at 8:30 am and returning to the meeting point.

Where does the tour start?
The tour departs from BSÍ Parking in Reykjavík.

Is lunch included?
No, lunch is not included. There is a lunch stop at Hrauneyjar highland center with a small selection of food.

What are the main stops on this tour?
Stops include Gjain oasis, Haifoss waterfall, Hrauneyjar highland center, Sigoldufoss waterfall, the Valley of Tears canyon, and around Volcano Hekla.

Is this tour suitable for children or those with limited mobility?
Most travelers can participate, but outdoor shoes are recommended for walking at stops. The terrain involves short walks and some off-road driving, so consider mobility needs.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, you can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the scheduled start.

What makes this tour different from larger bus trips?
The small group size allows for faster travel, more personalized guidance, and access to less crowded, more scenic spots that larger tours can’t reach.

Are guides knowledgeable about Iceland’s landscapes?
Absolutely. Reviews highlight guides like Thor and Otto as expert storytellers with deep knowledge of Iceland’s geology and history.

Is this tour weather-dependent?
Yes, the tour requires good weather. If canceled due to weather, a full refund or alternative date is offered.