From Reykjavík: 4, 5, 6 or 7-Day Small-Group Ring Road Tour

Key Points

• Seven-day guided tour exploring Iceland’s most iconic sights, including waterfalls, glaciers, and geothermal areas
• All accommodation and breakfasts are included, with options for 4 to 7 days
• Small-group experience with a maximum of 19 travelers, ensuring personalized attention
• Highlights include Seljalandsfoss, Skogafoss, Lake Myvatn, Dettifoss, Akureyri, and Þingvellir National Park
• Optional activities like glacier hiking, whale watching, and visits to geothermal baths are available at extra cost
• Convenient logistics with hotel pickup/drop-off in Reykjavík, onboard Wi-Fi, and USB chargers

Explore Iceland with a 7-Day Ring Road Adventure

This 7-day small-group tour from Reykjavík offers a comprehensive way to see Iceland without the stress of planning or driving. Priced at $1,329 per person, the tour includes accommodation with breakfast, transfers, and guided commentary. The itinerary features many of Iceland’s top sights, from powerful waterfalls to volcanic landscapes, making it ideal for travelers who want a thorough exploration in a limited time.

Rated 5.0 out of 5 with 34 reviews, the tour is celebrated for its expert guides, well-organized stops, and excellent value. The tour is especially recommended for those who prefer small groups to avoid overcrowding and enjoy a more personal experience. The flexibility of up to 7 days allows for deeper exploration, including optional activities like glacier hiking or geothermal baths, which add memorable touches to the journey.

Starting from Reykjavík: Pickup and Group Size

The tour begins at 9:00 am in Reykjavík with hotel pickup and ends in the city around 5:00 pm on Day 7. The minibus can hold up to 19 travelers, ensuring a comfortable and engaging group dynamic. The small-group setting enhances interaction with guides and allows for more tailored attention during stops, such as at waterfalls, beaches, and geothermal areas.

Day 1: Visiting Waterfalls and Black Sand Beaches

The first day covers some of Iceland’s most famous waterfalls. The journey starts at Seljalandsfoss, which features a walk-behind trail to experience its 60-meter drop up close. Nearby, the hidden waterfall Gljúfrabúi resides inside a cave, offering a quieter, mystical scene. The day continues with Skogafoss, a waterfall that looks like it’s straight out of a children’s drawing, showcasing the raw power of Icelandic nature.

Next, the tour heads to Reynisfjara Beach, known for its black basalt sands and Reynisdrangar sea stacks. The Atlantic Ocean’s powerful waves make this spot both stunning and dangerous, so caution is advised. Vík village offers a scenic lunch stop with views over the Black Beach. A key highlight is the Solheimajokull Glacier, where for an extra cost, travelers can join a 1.5-hour glacier hike—an experience that provides unreal views from atop the ice.

Day 2: Icebergs and Mountain Views in the East

Day two explores Iceland’s impressive East Coast. The day’s focal point is the Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon, where floating icebergs create a mesmerizing scene. Optional amphibian boat tours among the icebergs add a close-up perspective, although this activity costs extra. Nearby, Diamond Beach offers spectacular views of ice chunks washing up on black sand.

The Vestrahorn mountain stands out as a prime photography spot, with its dramatic peaks reflected in the surrounding waters. The tour continues along fjords and fishing villages, including Djupivogur, a charming settlement with a long trading history dating back to the 16th century. Optional thermal baths at Vök Baths provide a relaxing end to the day, although this is at an additional cost.

Day 3: Lake Myvatn and Powerful Waterfalls in North Iceland

The third day brings travelers to the geothermal wonderland of Lake Myvatn. Visitors see Dimmuborgir, a volcanic formation with dark lava rocks, along with Grjótagjá, a hot spring cave once used for bathing. The Krafla power plant and the Hverir geothermal area highlight Iceland’s volcanic activity. Expect to spend about 4 hours exploring these unique landscapes.

The day features Dettifoss, Europe’s most powerful waterfall, visible during the summer months. A short hike allows viewing of Selfoss, another impressive waterfall. The tour concludes with a visit to Godafoss, the “Waterfall of the Gods,” renowned for its beauty and history. For an extra touch of relaxation, travelers can opt for a visit to the Forest Lagoon, a geothermal spa with pools at around 37°C, although this is an optional activity.

Day 4: Discovering North Iceland’s Cultural and Natural Gems

Starting in Akureyri, known as Iceland’s “Capital of the North,” the day explores the city’s mix of modern architecture and historic charm. The visit includes a stop at Hvitserkur, a striking rock formation that resembles a barrel-shaped creature and offers fantastic photo opportunities.

Next, the tour visits Kolugljufur Canyon, with its spectacular waterfall (accessible during April to October). The Vioimyrarkirkja church in Varmahlid adds a touch of local architecture, and optional whale watching tours can be booked, lasting approximately 3 hours to spot marine mammals in the North Atlantic waters.

Day 5: Geothermal Springs and Lava Caves in West Iceland

Day five begins with Deildartunguhver, Europe’s highest-flow hot spring, producing 180 liters per second of 100°C water. The powerful steam and bubbling waters are a captivating sight. Nearby, Snorralaug, a historic hot spring bathing spot, dates back to the 12th century and offers a peek into Icelandic history.

The tour continues to Hraunfossar and Barnafoss, two waterfalls with contrasting stories—Hraunfossar’s rivulets flow over lava fields, while Barnafoss is linked to a tragic legend involving children. The highlight is Víðgelmir Lava Cave, where a 1.5-hour tour reveals vivid lava stalactites and stalagmites within one of Iceland’s largest lava caves. The day ends in Husafell, a scenic woodland area ideal for relaxing after a day of exploring.

Day 6: Coastal Wildlife and Iconic Mountain Photography

The sixth day focuses on Iceland’s west coast. Stops include Ytri Tunga Beach, home to a seal colony where visitors can see playful seals sunbathing. The coastal cliffs at Arnarstapi and Hellnar feature impressive rock formations and vibrant moss-covered scenery, perfect for walking and taking photos.

Londrangar basalt cliffs provide striking views from the road, and at Djúpalónssandur Beach, visitors can test their strength with historic lifting stones used by fishermen. The day’s finale is at Kirkjufell, one of Iceland’s most photographed mountains, surrounded by rivers and waterfalls, offering great opportunities for memorable photos.

Day 7: Exploring Þingvellir, Geysir, and Gullfoss

The final day covers the Golden Circle route in South Iceland. The tour begins at Þingvellir National Park, a UNESCO site with spectacular geology and historical significance as the site of Iceland’s first parliament, established in 930 AD. The park sits in a rift valley between tectonic plates, providing impressive geological views.

Next, the tour visits the geothermal area of Haukadalur, home to Geysir and Strokkur. While Geysir’s eruptions are sporadic, Strokkur reliably shoots water up to 40 meters every 5-10 minutes, creating an exciting spectacle. The route ends at Gullfoss, Iceland’s most famous waterfall, with its powerful double cascade, and the Kerid Crater, a vibrant water-filled volcanic crater, completing the day’s highlights.

Practical Details and Additional Inclusions

This 7-day guided tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off in Reykjavík, accommodation with breakfast, onboard Wi-Fi, and USB chargers for convenience. The entry to Víðgelmir Lava Cave is included if you book for 5 days or more, and Kerið volcanic crater entry is always included.

While lunch and dinner are not included, the tour makes scheduled stops where travelers can purchase meals. Optional activities like whale watching and thermal baths are available at extra cost, allowing for personalized experiences.

Who Will Appreciate This Tour Most

This tour suits travelers seeking a comprehensive Iceland experience without the hassle of driving or planning logistics. The small-group format makes for a more intimate and flexible adventure. It is perfect for those who want to see waterfalls, glaciers, geothermal areas, and coastal sights in a week, with optional activities adding extra memories.

The tour is designed for most travelers, but note that some stops—like the Kolugljufur Canyon—are seasonal, and optional activities incur additional fees. The well-organized itinerary balances sightseeing, relaxation, and cultural insight, making it a rewarding way to explore Iceland’s diverse landscapes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour price?
The price covers seven days of guided transport, accommodation with breakfast, entry to Víðgelmir Lava Cave (if booking 5+ days), Kerið crater, hotel pickup and drop-off, and onboard Wi-Fi with USB chargers.

Are meals included?
No, lunch and dinner are not included but scheduled stops allow for meal purchases. Optional activities like Vök Baths or whale watching are extra.

How many travelers are in each group?
The maximum group size is 19 travelers, ensuring a comfortable and engaging experience with personal guidance.

Can I join this tour for fewer days?
Yes, the tour is available for 4, 5, 6, or 7 days, providing flexibility based on your schedule.

What activities are optional?
Options such as glacier hikes, whale watching, geothermal baths, and lava cave visits can be added at extra cost.

What should I bring?
Warm, water- and windproof clothing, good hiking shoes (or rentals available), and a camera are recommended.

What is the pace of this tour?
The itinerary balances sightseeing and travel time to prevent overload, with most days including multiple stops and some optional activities.

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Most travelers can participate, but those with mobility issues should consider the seasonal accessibility of certain stops and the physical activity involved.

When does the tour typically finish?
Most trips conclude back in Reykjavík around 5:00 pm on Day 7, giving a full experience within a week.

How can I reserve this tour?
Booking is recommended 89 days in advance for best availability, and the tour can be canceled up to 3 days before for a full refund.

This 7-day small-group Ring Road tour from Reykjavík offers a thorough and comfortable way to experience Iceland’s most captivating sights, combining natural wonders, cultural sites, and optional activities for a memorable journey.