8 Day Winter Circle Tour, Ring Route of Iceland with Snæfellsnes Peninsula

Exploring Iceland is like flipping through a natural photo album filled with waterfalls, glaciers, volcanoes, and black sand beaches. This 8-Day Winter Circle Tour by Troll Expeditions offers a well-rounded way to see the highlights of Iceland without the stress of planning each detail yourself. Priced at $679, it covers the famous Ring Road and the enchanting Snæfellsnes Peninsula, giving travelers an immersive experience with expert guides, comfortable transportation, and some truly unforgettable sights. Whether you’re a first-timer or returning to Iceland, this tour packs a lot into a manageable week.

Two things I particularly love about this experience are the guided journey through diverse landscapes, including glaciers and waterfalls, and the opportunity to see the Northern Lights from several of the overnight stops—far from city lights, the chances are good. The tour’s well-structured itinerary balances iconic sights like Gullfoss and Geysir with hidden gems like the lava caves in Víðgelmir and the basalt columns at Gerðuberg. Plus, the inclusion of activities like glacier hiking and whale watching adds a sense of adventure that makes the trip stand out. One possible consideration is the weather—since Iceland’s winter climate can be unpredictable—and some days require good skies to fully enjoy the Northern Lights or outdoor activities.

The tour’s success comes partly from the knowledgeable guides who are praised for their logistics and local insights, and partly for the carefully curated stops that blend iconic attractions with lesser-known corners of Iceland. This mix ensures you won’t just check off places from a list but will also gain a genuine appreciation for Iceland’s unique terrain and culture. While it’s impossible to see everything in eight days, the carefully planned itinerary maximizes your time and minimizes hassle, making it ideal for those who want a comprehensive Icelandic experience without the hassle of self-driving or planning.

Key Points

Comprehensive itinerary covers Iceland’s top sights along with hidden gems.
Expert guides and smooth logistics ensure a stress-free experience, even with limited time.
Value for money at $679, including activities like glacier hikes, whale watching, and accommodations.
Opportunities for Northern Lights viewing due to remote overnight locations.
Diverse landscapes from waterfalls and glaciers to basalt cliffs and black sand beaches.
Comfortable transportation with WiFi and pickup/drop-off options enhance the travel experience.

A Closer Look at the 8-Day Iceland Adventure

What to Expect on Day 1: The Golden Circle

Your journey kicks off at Thingvellir National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site where the Icelandic Althingi was founded, and where you can walk between two tectonic plates. The guide will give you insights into Iceland’s geology and history, setting a tone of curiosity and appreciation. Next, Gullfoss Waterfall offers a jaw-dropping sight of water crashing into a canyon—one of Iceland’s most famous waterfalls. Finally, the Geysir geothermal area with Strokkur’s eruptions every 7 minutes ensures a lively, explosive start.

In the evening, you’ll settle into a cozy accommodation near Hvolsvollur, a small town ideal for possibly catching the Northern Lights—an experience many travelers rave about. As one review notes, “My guide, Hjalti, made the whole experience feel effortless, and the dark skies meant we saw the lights on several nights.”

Day 2: Waterfalls, Beaches, and Glaciers

Expect a day full of contrasts: Seljalandsfoss, where you can walk behind the cascade—so close you might get a little soaked—then Skogafoss, a thunderous waterfall. The Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach is next, with dramatic basalt columns and powerful Atlantic surf. The highlight is the Solheimajokull Glacier hike, where, with a certified guide, you’ll get the chance to walk on ice, learn about glaciers, and witness nature’s sculpting force firsthand.

You’ll spend the night in Vík, a small village with dark skies and minimal light pollution, perfect for those Northern Lights photos. Travelers mention that “the glacier hike was stunning, and the village of Vík offered a peaceful environment to relax after a day full of sights.”

Day 3: Ice Caves, Glacial Lagoons, and Black Beaches

This day is an ice marvel—inside Vatnajökull Glacier at Breiðamerkurjökull you’ll enter a Crystal Ice Cave, which is genuinely awe-inspiring. The ice formations look like they’ve been crafted by a glacier artist. The Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon is equally captivating, with floating icebergs and seals hunting in winter. Nearby, Djúpalónssandur Beach gives you more black sand and mysterious rock formations.

For serious photographers and nature lovers, the Hvannadalshnjúkur peak looms over the landscape, promising dramatic vistas. This day’s activities also include a longer drive, but the scenery makes every minute worthwhile.

Day 4-5: The East Fjords and Northern Landmarks

The eastern leg takes you past Búlandstindur, Iceland’s beautifully symmetrical mountain, and the tiny fishing village of Djúpivogur, known for its quiet charm and Slow Food movement. Then, you’ll visit Hallormsstaðarskógur, Iceland’s largest forest, a surprising sight in such a rugged landscape.

In Egilsstaðir, the Vök Baths offer a relaxing geothermal soak, where you can enjoy the warm, floating pools while potentially catching the Northern Lights if the skies clear. The tour’s reviews repeatedly praise the hot spring experience, describing it as a perfect wind-down after days of exploration.

Days 5 & 6: North Iceland Highlights

Traveling further north, Námaskarð geothermal area amazes with colorful mud springs and steaming fumaroles. Dimmuborgir Lava Fields surprise visitors with their wild and twisted lava formations. The Goðafoss Waterfall, a site of both natural beauty and myth, is a highlight for its stunning shape and history.

Next, you’ll visit Akureyri, Iceland’s northern capital, which combines small-town charm with cultural energy. The town itself is a delight, with lively cafés and colorful streets. One traveler fondly noted that “Akureyri has a cool, vibrant vibe, and the Northern Lights from the town are surprisingly visible on clear nights.”

Day 7: Snæfellsnes Peninsula

This day is dedicated to one of Iceland’s most visually striking regions. Gerðuberg basalt columns are like a city of giant hexagonal stones, a perfect starting point. Then, you’ll visit Ytri Tunga Beach, where seals lounge on white sands—a rare sight in Iceland.

The black church at Búðakirkja is iconic, while Arnarstapi offers rugged coastlines and curious rock formations. The Snæfellsjökull Glacier rises majestically at the peninsula’s tip, famously linked to Jules Verne’s “Journey to the Center of the Earth.” The Londrangar Cliffs and Djúpalónssandur Beach add to the dramatic scenery, ending with the photogenic Kirkjufell Mountain, a favorite among photographers and “Game of Thrones” fans alike.

Day 8: West Iceland’s Natural Wonders

The final day brings you to Deildartunguhver, Europe’s most powerful hot spring, and Reykholt, a site tied to Iceland’s medieval saga stories. The Hraunfossar and Barnafoss waterfalls show contrasting volcanic water landscapes—one with rivulets streaming over lava, the other with a dark history tied to local legend.

A highlight is the Víðgelmir Lava Cave, which offers a fascinating glimpse into Iceland’s volcanic underworld—though access to this cave is an extra, it’s highly praised by those who choose to add it.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This guided adventure suits travelers who want to see a broad swath of Iceland’s natural beauty without the hassle of self-driving or extensive planning. The group size of 17 or fewer makes for a cozier, more personalized experience, and the knowledgeable guides ensure you’re well-informed without feeling overwhelmed. If you’re after stunning landscapes, glacier adventures, and great opportunities to witness the Northern Lights, this tour hits all those marks.

The price point at $679 is quite reasonable considering it includes not just transport and accommodation but also activities like glacier hikes and whale watching. The experience is less about luxury and more about authenticity—abundant natural beauty, expert guidance, and practical comfort.

However, you should be comfortable with variable winter weather. Days can be cold and sometimes snowy, and some activities are weather-dependent, especially the Northern Lights viewing. If flexibility and outdoor exploration appeal to you, this trip will deliver.

Final Verdict

For anyone eager to explore Iceland’s highlights in a manageable week, this tour offers serious value. The combination of guided logistics, diverse scenery, and the chance to engage in activities like glacier hiking or whale watching makes it a standout choice for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. The knowledgeable guides, including Hjalti and others, are often praised for their professionalism and local insights, which enrich the experience further.

If you appreciate a well-organized trip that balances popular sights with hidden treasures, and you’re eager to see the Northern Lights from some of the least light-polluted spots, this tour has everything you need. It’s perfect for people who prefer guided travel but want authentic, awe-inspiring natural encounters.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for all ages?
Most travelers can participate, but given the outdoor activities like glacier hikes and potential winter weather, it’s best for those comfortable with physical activity and cold conditions.

What’s included in the price?
The $679 covers all transportation, accommodation for 7 nights, a guided itinerary, activities such as glacier hikes, whale watching, and WiFi on board. Some extras like lava cave visits or horse riding cost extra.

Is the Northern Lights guaranteed?
No tour can guarantee auroras, but staying in locations away from city lights increases your chances. The tour is scheduled in winter, which is prime viewing season if the weather cooperates.

How big are the groups?
The tour caps at 17 travelers, providing a more intimate experience and better chances to ask questions and interact with guides.

What should I bring?
Warm layers, waterproof clothing (or rent on tour), good hiking shoes, and a camera for those spectacular photo moments.

Are meals included?
No, meals are not included; you’ll need to plan for lunches and dinners. Some optional extras like horseback riding or lava cave tours are also at an additional cost.

How flexible is the itinerary?
The schedule is fixed but designed to maximize viewing and activity opportunities, with some optional add-ons.

What if the weather damages my plans?
If weather prevents certain activities, the tour provider offers options like rescheduling or full refunds if canceled.

Can I see the Northern Lights from the accommodation?
In several overnight locations, especially in Vík and Akureyri, the dark skies provide good chances to see the auroras if visibility conditions are favorable.

How early do I need to arrive for pickups?
Pickup times are around 8:00 am, so plan to be ready at designated stops a few minutes early for a smooth start.

This 8-Day Winter Circle Tour gives you a well-rounded glimpse of Iceland’s natural splendors, guided by expert locals who understand this landscape intimately. With a balance of iconic sights, hidden gems, and adventure activities, it offers great value and authentic experiences—perfect for those seeking to make the most of their Icelandic journey.