Embark on an unforgettable journey through Iceland’s captivating landscape with the ‘Circle of Iceland’ tour. This 8-day small group excursion promises to immerse travelers in the country’s natural wonders, from the awe-inspiring Golden Circle to the serene East Fjords. Venture onto glaciers, explore an ice cave, and discover the unique geology of the Snæfellsnes Peninsula. With comfortable accommodations, reliable transportation, and an experienced guide, this tour offers a seamless and comprehensive experience. But the true highlight lies in the opportunity to witness Iceland’s untamed beauty firsthand, a sight that just might leave you craving more of the island’s hidden gems.
Key Points
- This 8-day small group tour offers a comprehensive exploration of Iceland’s renowned Ring Road, showcasing the country’s most popular natural wonders.
- The tour includes visits to the Golden Circle, glacier hiking, and ice cave exploration, providing an immersive experience in Iceland’s diverse natural beauty.
- Highlights include the Gullfoss waterfall, Geysir geothermal area, Thingvellir National Park, Skogafoss and Seljalandsfoss waterfalls, and the Jokulsarlon glacier lagoon.
- The tour also explores the East Fjords, Lake Myvatn, and the Snaefellsnes Peninsula, offering a well-rounded journey through Iceland’s remote northern regions.
- The tour is suitable for travelers aged 8 and above, with inclusions such as accommodation, breakfast, and an English-speaking guide, ensuring a hassle-free and enjoyable experience.
Tour Overview
This 8-day small group Circle of Iceland tour from Reykjavik provides travellers a fully guided journey around the island’s renowned Ring Road, showcasing the country’s most popular natural wonders.
Over the course of the week, you’ll visit iconic sites like the Golden Circle, with its dramatic Gullfoss waterfall and bubbling Geysir hot springs.
You’ll also hike on a glacier, explore an ice cave, and stroll along the black sand beaches of the south coast.
From the glacial lagoons of the southeast to the volcanic landscapes of the north, this immersive tour offers an in-depth exploration of Iceland’s diverse and awe-inspiring natural beauty.
Itinerary Highlights
On the first day, visitors explore the renowned Golden Circle, marveling at the thundering Gullfoss waterfall and the bubbling geothermal pools of Geysir. They then venture into the dramatic landscapes of Thingvellir National Park, where they can walk between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates.
The next day, guests witness the majestic Skogafoss and Seljalandsfoss waterfalls, hike along a glacier, and explore the otherworldly Reynisfjara black sand beach.
Day three takes them to Skaftafell National Park, an Ice Cave, and the mesmerizing Jokulsarlon glacier lagoon.
The following days immerse them in the rugged East Fjords, the volcanic Lake Myvatn, and the Snaefellsnes Peninsula, where they can spot whales and venture into a lava cave.
Day 1: Golden Circle
Visitors kick off their Circle of Iceland adventure by exploring the renowned Golden Circle, a popular route encompassing some of the country’s most captivating natural wonders.
They first witness the thundering majesty of Gullfoss, a two-tiered waterfall that plunges 32 meters into a rugged canyon.
Next, they venture to the Geysir geothermal area, where they marvel at the bubbling, steaming pools and the iconic Strokkur geyser, which dramatically erupts every 5-10 minutes, shooting a column of water up to 40 meters high.
The final stop is Thingvellir National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site where the American and Eurasian tectonic plates meet, creating a stunning landscape of rifts, ravines, and lush, verdant meadows.
Day 2: South Coast Wonders
Leaving the Golden Circle behind, the tour moves southward, where travelers are captivated by the dramatic landscapes of Iceland’s South Coast.
They first visit the majestic Skogafoss waterfall, whose thunderous cascade plummets 60 meters into a misty pool below.
Next, they marvel at the graceful Seljalandsfoss, which allows visitors to walk behind its curtain of water.
The adventure continues with a thrilling glacier hike, where participants don crampons and explore the frozen terrain of Vatnajokull National Park.
Day 3: Glacier Exploration
After a day spent exploring the South Coast’s dramatic waterfalls and black sand beaches, the tour ventures deeper into the realm of Iceland’s glacial wonders. Traversing through Skaftafell National Park, the group marvels at the towering Vatnajokull – Europe’s largest glacier – before embarking on a thrilling excursion into one of its famed ice caves.
The ethereal, crystalline chambers cast an otherworldly glow, inviting visitors to:
- Admire the stunning, ephemeral sculptures carved by nature’s frozen hand
- Learn about the glacial formation process and the impact of climate change
- Snap unforgettable photos to capture the ice cave’s ethereal beauty
- Appreciate the raw power and grandeur of Iceland’s glacial landscape
- Savor the serene, icy atmosphere of this unique natural wonder
Days 4-7: East Fjords and North
In an article titled ‘Reykjavik: 8-Day Small Group Circle of Iceland Tour’, it’s now time to discuss the CURRENT SUBTOPIC ‘Days 4-7: East Fjords and North‘.
After their exploration of the glacial wonders, the tour group heads northeast along the dramatic East Fjords, marveling at the dramatic coastal landscapes dotted with quaint fishing villages. They’ll stop in picturesque towns like Fáskrúðsfjörður and Eskifjörður, sampling fresh-caught seafood and learning about the region’s rich maritime heritage.
From there, the journey continues north to the Lake Mývatn area, where they’ll encounter the otherworldly pseudo-craters and fumaroles of the Námaskarð geothermal fields. The group will experience the diversity of Iceland’s natural landscapes, from towering cliffs to volcanic hotspots, as they venture deeper into the country’s remote northern reaches.
Day 8: Snaefellsnes Peninsula
On the final day, the tour group eagerly explores the wonders of the Snaefellsnes Peninsula, a region often dubbed the ‘Iceland in Miniature.’
They marvel at the iconic Snaefellsjökull glacier, the inspiration for Jules Verne’s classic novel ‘Journey to the Center of the Earth.’ An optional lava cave tour allows them to delve deep underground and witness the magnificent geological formations forged by past volcanic activity.
The group is captivated by the dramatic coastal landscapes, with towering cliffs, hidden coves, and charming fishing villages.
They have the chance to see the iconic Kirkjufell mountain, one of Iceland’s most photographed natural wonders.
The group also has the opportunity to sample fresh, locally-sourced seafood and other Icelandic delicacies.
They are in awe of the serene beauty of the Arnarstapi cliffs and the striking basalt columns.
The group is captivated by the awe-inspiring views of the Snaefellsjökull glacier, a symbol of Iceland’s raw, untamed power.
Tour Inclusions and Exclusions
The tour package includes a comprehensive range of amenities, from pickup and drop-off in Reykjavik to 7 nights’ accommodation with private bathrooms and breakfast. Travelers can look forward to an English-speaking guide, glacier hike, ice cave tour, and whale watching excursion, all while enjoying the convenience of Wi-Fi on the bus and complimentary taxes.
However, lunch, dinner, and optional activities like horseback riding, the VOKK Baths, and the Vidgelmir Lava Cave tour aren’t included and available for purchase separately.
With a minimum age of 8 years, the tour offers a well-rounded and immersive experience exploring the natural wonders of Iceland.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Average Group Size for This Tour?
The tour typically accommodates small groups, allowing travelers to enjoy a more intimate and personalized experience as they explore the wonders of Iceland together. The group size is designed to provide a comfortable and flexible itinerary for all participants.
Can Participants Choose Their Own Accommodations?
No, participants can’t choose their own accommodations on this tour. The tour package includes 7 nights of pre-booked lodging with private bathrooms and breakfast, allowing travelers to focus on seeing the Icelandic experience.
Are There Any Age Restrictions for This Tour?
The tour has a minimum age requirement of 8 years old. Younger travelers may not be able to fully participate in certain activities on the itinerary, ensuring the overall experience is enjoyable for all.
Can Participants Bring Additional Luggage?
Participants can bring 1 piece of luggage weighing up to 20 kg, plus a day bag. Additional luggage is not permitted, as the tour involves frequent transportation where space is limited. All personal belongings must fit within the allotted luggage allowance.
Is This Tour Suitable for Travelers With Mobility Issues?
The tour may not be the best fit for travelers with mobility issues. It involves extensive walking, hiking on glaciers, and navigating uneven terrain. However, the tour operator can likely provide accommodations for guests with special needs – it’s best to inquire directly.
Recap
The ‘Circle of Iceland’ tour offers travelers an unforgettable journey through the country’s stunning natural landscapes.
From the iconic Golden Circle to the serene East Fjords, the tour immerses guests in Iceland’s captivating beauty.
Whether hiking on glaciers, exploring ice caves, or marveling at the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, this comprehensive experience leaves visitors with a deep appreciation for the country’s diverse and awe-inspiring wonders.
