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The 17 best iceland tours: northern lights, waterfalls & more.

Enjoy glacier hikes, whale watching cruises and the northern lights on these Iceland tours.

The Best Iceland Tours

Aerial drone view of Seljalandsfoss waterfall at sunset, Iceland

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With terrain shaped by volcanic eruptions and shifting tectonic plates and the surrounding waters filled with glaciers, icebergs and whales, Iceland is like no other place on Earth. It's also an ideal spot to observe a seasonal phenomenon above the Earth: the northern lights  (or aurora borealis).

The following Iceland tours, determined by U.S. News to be the best available thanks to expert input and traveler sentiment, provide ideal ways of experiencing all that this extraordinary place has to offer. All of these excursions are conducted by knowledgeable guides eager to share their insights into their country's special features.

Ice Lagoon Adventure Tours – Zodiac Boat Tour

Price: Adults from 14,900 Icelandic króna (about $108); kids from 8,900 króna (about $65) Duration: 75 minutes

Explore the Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon – part of Vatnajökull National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and home to Europe's largest glacier – aboard an inflatable rigid boat on this expedition. In addition to icebergs and the glacial wall, you might also spot wildlife like seals and various bird species. Tourgoers consistently describe the guides as passionate and knowledgeable, and say photo opportunities abound. Trips are available from May through October several times a day, with departures in both the morning and the afternoon. The park containing the lagoon sits in the southeast part of the country, about 236 miles from Reykjavik . Ice Lagoon Adventure Tours also runs private excursions.

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NiceTravel – Golden Circle, Blue Lagoon & Kerid Volcano

Price: Adults from $218; kids from $123 Duration: 11 hours

Visit the Golden Circle's top sights, including Thingvellir National Park and Gullfoss, plus a volcanic crater and a pristine lagoon on this daylong journey. The park is of both geological and historical significance as it straddles a fault line between two tectonic plates and was the site of a Viking parliament that ruled for hundreds of years starting in A.D. 930. Other highlights include Geysir, a hot spring that shoots plumes of vapor into the air; Gullfoss (aka the Golden Waterfall) over which water cascades down more than 100 feet into a narrow canyon; Kerid, a colorful red-earth volcanic crater; and a two-hour stop at the heated waters of the popular Blue Lagoon. Tour-takers invariably find the scenery spectacular and the guides friendly and informative, though a few found the bus to be too small for the number of people on the tour. Tours happen daily all year long. Pickup from various locations in Reykjavik occurs between 8:30 and 9 a.m. and minibuses return to the city around 8 p.m.

Reykjavik Sailors – Whale Watching

Price: Adults from 11,990 króna (about $87); kids from 5,995 króna (about $44) Duration: 3 to 3.5 hours

While April to October is considered peak season for whale watching off Iceland's coast, humpback, minke and orca whales, as well as porpoises and dolphins, inhabit the waters all year. Reykjavik Sailors, located on Reykjavik's Old Harbour, offers whale watching boat trips throughout the year. Tourgoers report spotting ample wildlife, and appreciate the knowledgeable, friendly guides.

Transportation from area hotels is available for an additional fee. Snacks and beverages are available aboard the boat, which features outdoor viewing platforms as well as heated indoor space. Reykjavik Sailors also operates tours of the northern lights, among other options.

Arctic Adventures – Crystal Ice Cave Tour Iceland

Price: Adults from about $161; kids from around $137 Duration: 2 to 3 hours

Take a ride in an off-roading vehicle from the Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon to the edge of the massive Vatnajökull glacier and then hike to a natural ice cave on this small-group excursion. The tour, which is limited to 14 travelers, also allows you to witness the result of calving – the process of icebergs breaking off of glaciers. Tourgoers frequently praise the capable and personable guides. Many reviewers called this the highlight of their trip to Iceland.

Trips depart from the lagoon daily from October to mid-April beginning at 9:20 a.m. until 1:30 p.m. While the hike to the cave is rated as easy, children younger than 6 are not allowed on this trip. All of the necessary safety equipment is included in the cost of the tour. Arctic Adventures conducts a variety of ice cave tours, glacier hikes and more.

The Best Iceland Tours

BusTravel Iceland – South Coast Waterfalls, Glacier & Black Sand Beach Tour

Price: Adults from 13,990 króna (about $103); kids from 6,995 króna (about $52) Duration: 10 hours

This daylong outing affords opportunities to explore the glaciers, volcanos and other distinctive features of Iceland's southern coast . Highlights include Skógafoss, a nearly 200-foot waterfall beside the Eyjafjallajökull volcano; the slightly taller Seljalandsfoss waterfall; Reynisfjara, a beach on the north Atlantic Ocean with black volcanic sand and basalt columns; a stop for lunch in the fishing village of Vik; and Sólheimajökull glacier. Tour-takers consistently call the scenery extraordinary and the guides informative, though they do warn that it is a long day.

Transportation from various Reykjavik locations is available for an additional charge. Pickups occur between 8 and 8:30 a.m. Prices do not cover any food and drink in Vik. Note: Reaching the glacier involves walking on uneven ground. BusTravel Iceland also leads tours exploring the Golden Circle, the northern lights and more.

Your Friend in Reykjavik – Walk With a Viking

Price: Adults from $45; kids from $29 Duration: 2 hours

See the sights of Reykjavik on this two-hour walking tour of the city's center. Highlights include Harpa (an incredible performance venue), Hallgrímskirkja church, the Parliament building and Reykjavik harbor, as well as the first Viking house. Tour-takers find this stroll to be a great way to get to know the city and recommend taking the tour on one of your first days in Iceland. Reviewers consistently describe the guides as great storytellers and eager to answer any questions.

Groups of up to 12 depart from Ingólfur Square daily at 10 a.m. and 1 and 5 p.m. Your Friend in Reykjavik offers a variety of tours, including food tours, cooking classes, adventure tours and more.

Troll Expeditions – Snorkeling in Silfra

Price: From 19,900 króna (about $145) Duration: 3 hours

Snorkel between tectonic plates in the only place where that's possible during this adventure. Located in Thingvellir National Park about a 30-mile drive northeast of Reykjavik, Silfra fissure lies in the space where the Eurasian and North American tectonic plates have slowly moved apart. Its water, from the melted ice of the Langjökull glacier, is exceptionally clean, boasting visibility of about 330 feet. Snorkelers laud the attentive, professional guides as well as the one-of-a-kind experience.

Snorkeling trips are available year-round at least twice a day; start times vary depending on the season. Groups are limited to six people. There are age, weight and health restrictions for this tour; check with the company before you book to ensure you meet all the necessary requirements. Troll Expeditions also offers guided glacier hikes, day trips and multiday excursions around the country to the South Coast, Ring Road and more.

Wake Up Reykjavik – Reykjavik Food Tour

Price: Adults from 16,900 króna (about $123); kids from 9,900 króna (about $72) Duration: 3 hours

Sample an array of Icelandic cuisine on this walking tour of downtown Reykjavik. Try eight traditional dishes, including fish and grass-fed lamb, as well as ice cream and street food. (Vegetarians and those with allergies or other dietary restrictions can usually be accommodated.) Between stops, you'll stroll past notable sites, such as the Parliament building and city hall. Travelers praise the pace of the tour and the dishes featured. Reviewers also applauded guides for their humor and the depth of their knowledge about Iceland's history and culture.

Tours start outside Harpa concert hall every day beginning at 10:30 a.m. until 5 p.m. Wake Up Reykjavik also organizes day trips to the Golden Circle, the South Coast and more.

Adventure Vikings – Silfra Drysuit Snorkeling

Price: From 18,990 króna (about $138) Duration: 2 to 4.5 hours

Explore the pristine glacial waters between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates on this snorkeling tour in Silfra, one of the world's top dive sites. Part of Thingvellir National Park, Silfra fissure is the result of the two tectonic plates separating at a rate of about 2 centimeters per year. The fissure is filled with water from Langjökull glacier that's been filtered through lava fields, making it incredibly pure. Snorkelers rave about the Silfra fissure's beauty and praise the guides for their attention to safety.

The tour lasts up to 4.5 hours depending if round-trip transportation from Reykjavik is needed. Prices include use of snorkeling equipment. You can rent a wearable GoPro camera for an additional 6,900 króna (around $51). Tours are available year-round. Snorkelers must be at least 12 years old; groups have no more than six people per guide. Participants preferring to don a less restrictive (but also less warm) wetsuit instead of a dry suit have that option. There are height and weight requirements for this tour. Adventure Vikings also leads surfing and stand-up paddleboarding tours, among other outings.

The Best Iceland Tours

Special Tours – Northern Lights by Boat

Price: Adults from 12,990 króna (about $95); kids from 6,495 króna (about $48) Duration: 2 to 3 hours

Enjoy the unique opportunity to observe the northern lights from the ocean on this two- to three-hour boat ride. You'll depart from Old Harbour in Reykjavik and be in the perfect viewing location away from the city lights after about a 20-minute cruise. Along the way, guides regale passengers with stories, myths and scientific facts about the aurora borealis. Travelers praise the amazing views as well as the humorous, helpful guides. Others appreciated the company's backup plan: If the conditions aren't favorable for viewing the lights from the water, you can hunt for the lights by bus, or choose one of the company's other tours (such as a daytime whale watching excursion) at no charge.

Cruises are available nightly in the fall and winter. Departure times vary by time of year, but boats typically sail at 10 p.m. in September and mid-March to mid-April; they depart at 9 p.m. from October to mid-March. Food and drinks are available for purchase on board. The company also offers whale watching excursions, fishing trips and more.

ĺshestar – Lava Tour

Price: Adults from 15,900 króna (about $117); kids from 11,925 króna (about $87) Duration: 2 hours

Admire the green hillsides and lava fields just outside Reykjavik on this two-hour small-group horseback riding tour. The stables are located about 10 miles south of the city center; round-trip transportation is available if you don't have your own car. Travelers frequently describe riding an Icelandic horse as a fantastic experience, and they generally appreciate the professionalism of the staff who lead the outing.

Rides depart every day at 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. The cost includes the use of helmets and boots, as well as post-ride coffee, tea or hot chocolate. Round-trip transportation from Reykjavik is available for an additional fee and starts an hour before the tour. Groups are limited to 20 participants; all must be at least 7 years old and weigh less than 240 pounds. No prior horseback riding experience is necessary. Longer, multiday trail rides, as well as private tours are also available.

BusTravel Iceland – Snaefellsnes Peninsula Tour

Price: Adults from 16,990 króna (about $125); kids from 8,495 króna (about $62) Duration: 11 hours

In addition to its tours of the southern coast, BusTravel Iceland offers a daylong tour of the Snaefellsnes Peninsula, an area northwest of Reykjavik that boasts black sand beaches, lava fields, beautiful waterfalls , rock formations and more. Highlights include Berserkjahraun lava fields, which date back to a volcanic eruption thousands of years ago; the 1,520-foot Kirkjufell (aka Church Mountain); the nearby Kirkjufellsfoss waterfalls; Snaefellsjökull National Park and the cliffs of Arnarstapi harbor, once a bustling fishing area. Travelers typically enjoy both the dramatic landscapes and the guides' commentary.

Tours last approximately 11 hours. Pickup from various Reykjavik locations is available for an additional fee. Tours are available daily starting at 8 and 9 a.m.

CityWalk Reykjavik – Free Walking Tour Reykjavik

Price: Free Duration: 2 hours

Stroll among the main attractions of downtown Reykjavik , including the statue of Jón Sigurðsson and the Harpa concert hall, on this approximately two-hour, 1.3-mile tour. Guides will regale you with stories concerning Icelandic history, as well as lore involving elves, Vikings and more, which tour-takers deem highly entertaining.

Walks start at 10:30 a.m. or 1:30 p.m. every day at the Austurvöllur (the city's main square) and conclude at city hall. Bookings open up about five days in advance. While there's no fee for this tour, guides do appreciate tips. There are no age or group-size limits. CityWalk Reykjavik does offer a slightly longer, small-group tour for a fee.

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The Best Iceland Tours

GeoIceland – Premium Golden Circle Tour

Price: Adults from 18,900 króna (about $140); kids from 14,900 króna (about $110) Duration: 9 hours

Visit the rift between two tectonic plates, the powerful waterfall and the geothermal area comprising Iceland's famed Golden Circle and more on this daylong tour. In addition to the high cliffs of the rift valley in Thingvellir National Park, the often rainbow-adorned Gullfoss waterfall and the hot spring Geysir, this tour stops at the Kerid volcanic crater, as well as a tomato farm. Tour-takers frequently cite both the stunning scenery and the friendly, amusing guides as highlights of this journey.

Buses depart from the Aurora Reykjavik museum daily at 9 a.m. and return approximately nine hours later. Prices include admission to all attractions, but exclude lunch at the tomato farm's restaurant. GeoIceland also runs tours that depart from other cities in Iceland, including Akureyri and the Lake Mývatn area.

Iceland Everywhere Tours – Northern Lights Midnight Adventure Tour

Price: From 15,800 króna (around $115) Duration: 3 to 5 hours

Spend the night searching for the northern lights on this seasonal outing. During the trip, guides not only provide information about the aurora borealis, local history and Icelandic culture, but also assist participants with finding the right setting on their cameras or smartphones to capture the best images. Free professional photographs are also available if you'd prefer to simply admire the sky. Reviewers rave about the colorful lights and appreciate the small size of the group. Several travelers also called out the insightful guides as a highlight.

These minibus rides happen every night from September to mid-April starting at 9 p.m. and last from three to five hours. Transportation from area hotels is available. There is a maximum of 15 participants per each tour. Iceland Everywhere Tours also offers guided excursions to the South Coast and the Golden Circle.

Funky Iceland – The Funky Food & Beer Walk

Price: Adults from 18,000 króna (about $131); kids from 7,500 króna (about $55) Duration: 3 hours

Enjoy a culinary adventure on this three-hour walking tour of Reykjavik. The tour has five food stops featuring nine traditional Icelandic dishes, such as lamb stew, dried fish and fermented shark, as well as five locally crafted beers. Foodies tend to relish the savvy guides' insights into Icelandic culture and cuisine. Tours start outside the Hallgrímskirkja Church at 4 p.m. Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday and Sunday. Groups range in size from two to eight people.

Icelandic Mountain Guides – Blue Ice Experience

Price: Adults from 18,999 króna (about $138); kids from 13,299 króna (about $97) Duration: 3.5 hours

Hike among the ice formations, crevasses and frozen ridges of the enormous Vatnajökull glacier on this small-group expedition. Outings of up to 15 people commence at the welcome center at Skaftafell (about 200 miles southeast of Reykjavik) and last about 3.5 hours, including up to 1.5 to two hours on the ice. Past participants consistently describe the scenery as stunning and the guides as professional and informative.

Tours are available multiple times a day, beginning at 9 a.m. until 2:30 p.m. Children younger than 10 may not join the tour. Prices include the use of ice axes, harnesses and crampons. Icelandic Mountain Guides operates a variety of glacier walks, snowmobile tours and guided hikes.

You might also be interested in:

  • The Best Hotels in Reykjavik
  • The Northern Lights in Iceland: How to See Them
  • The Best Northern Lights Alaska Cruises for 2024 & Beyond
  • The Best Places to Visit in Europe
  • The Best International Travel Insurance

Tags: Iceland , Tours , Travel , Vacations

World's Best Places To Visit

  • # 1 South Island, New Zealand
  • # 4 Bora Bora

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Iceland Tour & Vacation Packages

People walking near the crater with rising sea at the geothermal area of Iceland, Namaskaro

Greenland’s the icy one; Iceland’s the green one. But remember this: they don’t call part of it the Golden Circle for nothing.

Calling all nature lovers, adventure seekers and fearless travelers. Iceland may be cold, but that’s the point—you’ll get to see all the glaciers, geysers and geothermal wonders you can handle. Discover a land of natural color: hues of azure at the  Blue Lagoon  and the icy Jokulsarlon, shades of green on the rolling hills framing Skogafoss and the striking black sand beaches that hug the coast. Not to mention the magical aurora borealis  that dance across the sky! From uncovering Viking tales and bathing in steamy springs to cruising past icebergs and exploring quirky farm towns,  Iceland  is island life like no other.

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Iceland at a glance, capital city.

Reykjavik (population approximately 123,000)

Approximately 372,520

(GMT) Monrovia, Reykjavik

CALLING CODE

Electricity.

Type C (European 2-pin) Type F (German 2-pin, side clip earth)

Learn more about Iceland

Culture and customs.

Similar to many other parts of Europe , Iceland has rules in place to help preserve its culture and geographic isolation is also a factor in developing and preserving the country’s cultural qualities. Independence, self-sufficiency and a strong work ethic – traits that allowed this northern island to flourish in challenging conditions – continue to be highly valued today.

Icelandic culture and customs are full of myths and legends, many with a connection to Christian and pagan values. Folk tales of elves, gnomes, fairies and trolls still circulate, and whether or not the locals continue telling these to unlock the secrets of the past, or simply in jest, they’re definitely worth listening to. But when news outlets report on road plans being changed to avoid disrupting an elfin church, it’s easy to believe that this unusual country and its magical landscapes are a product of what lies ‘hidden’ in its mysterious depths.

Today, Iceland is a highly modern and progressive society. It is consistently rated as having the smallest gender pay gap and strong LGBTQIA+ rights representation in the parliament and media. It’s also one of the greenest countries in the world, with almost all energy coming from renewable resources such as hydropower and geothermal.

Read more about Iceland's History and Folklore

History and government

Pre-modern history.

This island nation was settled by Vikings in the ninth century, with much of the early literature recognizing Norse sailor Ingolfur Arnason as the first settler of Iceland, founding Reykjavik in AD874 along with his wife and brother. Icelanders remain proud to this day of their Viking heritage. The Icelandic language, for example, is so similar to the Old Norse spoken during Viking times that Icelanders can still read and understand the original Icelandic sagas.

A book of settlements titled Landnamabok, compiled in the 12th century, documents the names and other details of nearly 400 original settlers of Iceland who arrived in the ninth and tenth centuries. The document tells of a Norse Viking called Floki who sailed to Iceland for fishing and farming, however, due to his livestock not surviving in the conditions, had to return to his home in Norway. After heading up a mountain and looking over a fjord full of sea ice, he named this land Iceland.

In AD930, an Icelandic General Assembly was established and was deemed a Christian settlement less than a century later. Settlers and slaves brought to Iceland by Scandinavians were of Irish and Norse descent, and although some still debate which communities influenced the identity we now know to be Icelandic, the first distinctive text documenting ‘Icelandic-ness’ is said to be a rule book of sorts – the First Grammatical Treatise.

20th century and today

After long periods under Norwegian and Danish rule, Iceland was recognized as a sovereign state in 1918. On 17 June 1944, Iceland became an independent republic. It has a multi-party parliamentary system and a written constitution. The parliament is still called Althingi after its medieval General Assembly.

Many of Iceland’s major industries stem from its location and surrounding natural resources. Tourism aside, fishing and seafood products make up much of the country’s exports and employ a majority of the workforce along with agriculture and farming. Recent investment in greenhouses and geothermal energy has seen Iceland become increasingly self-sufficient, growing products that usually do not fare well in icy climates, such as potatoes, tomatoes and potted plants. Other food is imported along with many consumer goods.

Eating and drinking

Flanked by the ocean and inhabited by almost twice the amount of sheep as humans, Iceland understandably boasts a cuisine dominated by seafood and local lamb.

The country’s diet relies on plenty of potatoes and lamb, but seafood trumps all – sourced fresh year-round from the waters of the North Atlantic and Arctic and prepared in a variety of ways. Be sure to try Hardfiskur – a salty fish jerky, best enjoyed buttered.

Sheep and cows are free-range and fed chemical-free diets, making lamb and dairy products exceptionally good here. One of the best ways to enjoy the produce on offer is to warm yourself up from the inside out with a hearty meat soup: a mixture of lamb, root vegetables, herbs, and rice.

Skyr, a popular yogurt that is technically a cheese, is also a must-try in all its variety of flavors. Eat it like the locals do at any time of the day – for breakfast, as a snack, as a dipping sauce, in drink form (called drykkur), or as a dessert topping.

Surprisingly, hot dogs are Iceland’s most iconic fast food. Widely available, a hot dog is probably the cheapest meal you’ll have in Iceland. Order one with all the toppings – sweet mustard, ketchup, raw onions, deep-fried onions, and aioli.

Rye bread (also known as rugbraud) and butter is a common side to most meals in Iceland, but the preferred way of cooking the loaves are quite unique. Traditionally, the bread is buried near a natural hot spring, sprinkled with sugar, and left to gently steam for up to 24 hours. The end result is dense, cake-like bread that has a slightly sweet taste. Enjoy it with a traditional Icelandic soup, smoked lamb, or, of course, fish.

Name a food and chances are Icelanders have tried to add licorice to it. Black licorice is beloved by locals and found in a wide range of desserts and candy bars. During your time here, head to Valdis in Reykjavik to test out a cone filled with salted black licorice ice cream. Even if the weather’s cold, the ice cream joints will be open!

The weird and wacky

Icelanders have a reputation for serving up some of the most unusual food in the world – boiled sheep’s head, fermented shark known as harkarl, ram testicles and smoked puffin to name a few. Although the country’s isolation and harsh winters once meant these foods were eaten out of necessity, today most of these ‘delicacies’ are only prepared to shock tourists. Try if you dare, but we suggest sticking to the common foods that locals eat.

Alcohol can be expensive in Iceland and is best bought at the duty-free shop. Although forms of prohibition existed until 1989, alcohol is now widely available all over the country in state-run liquor stores. If you’re feeling brave, try the local brew, Brennivin – a potent, traditional caraway-flavored schnapps nicknamed ‘black death’.

Read more about what to eat in Iceland

Read more about what to drink in Iceland

Iceland travel highlights

1. explore reykjavik.

Iceland's capital city is totally beguiling, surrounded by volcanic peaks and boasting a vibrant art and nightlife scene. Browse the city’s galleries, explore the colorful street art, dine on fresh lox (traditionally cured salmon),   or cycle to the striking cathedral of Hallgrimskirkja – trying to say that after a tipple or two of Brennivin (Iceland's signature spirit) might be tricky! Get stuck into Icelandic culture on our 6 day Northern Lights Escape .

2. Discover the Golden Circle

The Golden Circle is the holy trinity of southern Iceland. This 186-mile (300 km) route is brimming with natural wonders that showcase why so many travelers fall under Iceland's spell. Marvel at the layered cascades of Gullfoss Waterfall, explore the dramatic rift valley in Thingvellir National Park and witness the unpredictable eruptions in Geysir Geothermal Area. Marvel at breathtaking natural landscapes on our 5 day Iceland Express tour.

3. Cruise along Jokulsarlon

It's impossible not to be amazed by the sheer size and beauty of Jokulsarlon, Iceland’s famous glacial lagoon. Enjoy a boat tour along the icy waters where you'll cruise past towering glaciers and witness icebergs of all shapes, sizes and shades of blue drifting into the Atlantic Ocean. Cool down on our 8 day Iceland Discovery tour.

4. Experience life in Akureyri

Soak up the charm of this northern port city – the second-largest city in Iceland. Better described as a big town with lots of character, you'll be won over by its quaint turf homes, rich history and folklore, and the imposing Mount Súlur that looms over the town. Akureyri is also an ideal Northern Lights viewing location between September and April. Explore the streets of Akureyri on our 9 day Premium Iceland tour.

5. Be wowed by Westfjords

Venture off course to the unspoiled, untamed reaches of the Westfjords – without the big crowds. This is a land where mountains meet the sea most dramatically, where waterfalls tumble down into the inky fjords and puffins live along the towering cliffs. If you’re lucky and conditions allow, we might cruise along Látrabjarg (Europe’s largest bird cliff) to see puffins, razorbills, guillemots and more. Adventure through the Westfjords on our 14 day East Greenland and Iceland Northern Lights tour.

6. Bathe in the Blue Lagoon

There's no need to worry about being cold all the time in Iceland when you can slip into the famous Blue Lagoon just out of Reykjavik. Surrounded by black volcanic rock, a soak in the mineral-rich, milk-blue waters of this geothermal spa is the perfect way to relax and unwind after a big day of walking. 

Geography and environment

Iceland possesses some of the world’s most incredible natural wonders and unique landscapes. From active volcanoes to vast ice fields, bubbling hot springs and enormous glaciers, these dramatic contrasts have earned Iceland the nickname of the ‘Land of Fire and Ice’.

Many of these geological features are products of geographical location – on the Mid-Atlantic Ridge, where the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates intersect and their movements away from each other create volcanic activity. The country is covered by moss-carpeted lava fields, soaring fjords, incredible waterfalls and dramatic geysers, all of which add to Iceland’s otherworldly look.

The country is also the perfect spot to see the Northern Lights. From September to March, you’ll have the best chance to view this spectacular natural light show when the skies are clear and auroral activity is high. But don’t let that stop you from visiting in other seasons – Iceland’s natural wonders are truly year-round attractions.

Top 4 natural phenomena of Iceland

1. Northern Lights

The Northern Hemisphere's Aurora Borealis has captivated and intrigued travelers for years. Any winter tour of Iceland absolutely must include a chance to see the Northern Lights. This natural light display that runs along magnetic fields often brings hypnotic green, yellow and red shades to the night sky in Iceland from September to March. As one of nature's most magnificent triumphs, this is one unforgettable spectacle.

2. Gullfoss

Otherwise known as Golden Falls, this spectacular three-tiered waterfall drops suddenly into a deep cavern. The falls are surrounded by lush, green countryside, and the rainbows created by the mist and spray provide brilliant photo opportunities.

3. Lake Myvatn

This part of northern Iceland was born from volcanic eruptions millions of years ago and continues to be shaped by volcanic activity to this day. The combination of strange lava formations, thermal caves and a sprawling lake dotted with craters and rising rocks makes for an eerie yet beautiful landscape.

4. Jokulsarlon

Literally translating to ‘glacial river lagoon’, this monumental glacier lake is the largest in Iceland. Featuring a parade of large and small blue icebergs floating on and under the pure, icy water, this lagoon is so beautiful that it has been used as a backdrop for Hollywood films, a set for reality television shows and in a starring role on a postage stamp!

Iceland is notorious for being an expensive destination. Travelling on a budget here is difficult but can be done. Head to Bonus – Iceland’s discount grocery store – so you can cook rather than eat out for each meal. The duty-free store at Keflavik International Airport is the best place to pick up a bottle of Icelandic alcohol such as Brennivin liquor, Reyka vodka or Viking Gold beer for a fraction of the price you’d find elsewhere. It’s also a good idea to travel as a group, as operators can get better rates than a single traveler at hotels and restaurants, plus they know all the local hotspots.

If you’d like to take home Icelandic local specialties, Reykjavik is the best place to shop. Some of the country’s coolest retailers can be found on Laugavegur, one of the oldest shopping streets. Here you can browse clothing from quirky local designers alongside traditional lambswool sweaters, as well as tourist shops selling plastic Viking hats and puffin magnets. For smaller boutiques selling local art, head to Skolavordustigur.

Festival and events

Despite the long and dark winters, Icelanders are among the happiest people in the world. Why? One reason is that they understand the importance of getting together and having a good time, even if it’s pitch black outside. There are many celebrations to join in on throughout the year, but here are a few to look out for:

Winter Lights Festival

Every year, buildings around Reykjavik light up at night to celebrate both the winter world and the growing light after a long period of darkness. The Winter Lights Festival uses many public buildings and all major museums and thermal pools to illuminate the city with lighting designs and art installations as a way to get people thawed out after a long winter.

This annual mid-winter feast in January or February is one of Iceland’s oldest festivals, dating back to Viking days. Fearless eaters can find restaurants in Reykjavik offering special Thorrablot dinners of boiled sheep’s head, rotten shark’s meat, and cured ram testicles. If you can, try to snag an invitation to a local’s house, where celebrations tend to be more festive and involve lots of singing, dancing, and drinking.

Viking Festival

Modern-day Vikings in traditional garb flock to Hafnarfjorour each June for a festival Leif Erikson would approve of. Swordfights, archery, axe throwing, a traditional market, concerts, and a proper Viking feast are all part of the festivities.

National Day

1944 marks the year that Iceland became a republic after an overwhelming majority of the citizens voted for independence. The deciding referendum took place between May 20 and 23 that year; however, Iceland’s National day is celebrated on June 17th – the birthday of the man who originally led the movement in the late 19th century, Jon Sigurdsson. There are parades all around the country, usually with brass bands and marching horses. Music food, fireworks, and street parties – you get it, they’re a patriotic bunch.

Dalvik Fiskidagurinn Mikli (The Great Fish Day)

Each August, the northern fishing village of Dalvik invites you to a free, all-you-can-eat fish and seafood buffet – held for no reason other than to get people together over a delicious meal. You might come for the free food, but you’ll stay for the company.

Read more about festivals in Iceland

Further reading

For inspiring stories to prepare you for your Iceland adventure, check out these books:

  • Independent People   – Halldor Laxness
  • Jar City   – Arnaldur Indridason
  • The Little Book of Tourists in Iceland   – Alda Sigmundsdottir
  • Waking Up in Iceland   – Paul Sullivan
  • The Tricking of Freya   – Christina Sunley
  • Viking Age Iceland   – Jesse L Bycock
  • The Far Traveler: Voyages of a Viking Woman   – Nancy Marie Brown
  • Burial Rites   – Hannah Kent
  • The Book of Settlements: Landnamabok   – Herman Palsson (trans.)

Discover more about visiting Iceland from our travel experts in our Complete Guide to Iceland.

Similar destinations

We have a variety of similar destinations, trips and routes that you could consider! Tie another trip into your holiday, or, see how we can help you get from A to B. We have tours departing from a variety of locations around Iceland. The options below may be of interest:

Tours to Reykjavik 

Northern Lights Tours

Iceland or Greenland

Iceland travel FAQs

Do i need a covid-19 vaccine to join an intrepid trip.

Trips from 1 January 2023 onwards

From 1 January 2023, Intrepid will no longer require travelers to provide proof of vaccination against COVID-19 (excluding all Polar trips and select adventure cruises).

However, we continue to strongly recommend that all Intrepid travelers and leaders get vaccinated to protect themselves and others.

Specific proof of testing or vaccination may still be required by your destination or airline. Please ensure you check travel and entry requirements carefully.

When is the best time to visit Iceland?

Deciding what you want to see in Iceland will give you a better idea of when is the best time to travel. Wanting to get active around the countryside and see waterfalls and wildlife? The warmer spring and summer months are probably ideal. Prefer to soak in the geothermal lagoons and get a chance to see the Northern Lights? Well, likely the cooler months – with their longer nights – are best for you.

Spring and summer are considered optimal times to visit Iceland if green landscapes and balmy days are your thing. The early spring months bring warmer days, while summer offers long daylight hours with only short nights. In the summer season, July and August are the warmest months and the busiest time for tourists.

In September, tourism tends to slow down as the weather becomes unpredictable and the countryside is usually less accessible. However, there are plenty of attractions for the off-peak traveler, including the beauty of fall colors and, of course, the awe-inspiring Northern Lights.

As you might expect, winters in Iceland can be challenging. During late December there are about four-and-a-half hours of daylight and it's often cloudy. In January, there are on average three sunny days in Reykjavík, with temperatures hovering around freezing point, often with chilling winds.

Do I need a visa to travel to Iceland?

Iceland is a member of the Schengen Convention, which means that if you travel to an EU member country or countries, like Iceland, for a total of less than 90 days, a visa is not required. Citizens of Australia, New Zealand, Canada, the US, the UK and other member countries of the EU and Schengen area are included under this arrangement. Other countries do require a visa to visit Iceland, including citizens of South Africa.

Visas are the responsibility of the individual traveler. Entry requirements can change at any time, so it's important that you check for the latest information. Please visit the relevant consular website of the country or countries you’re visiting for detailed and up-to-date visa information specific to your country of origin. Check the Essential Trip Information section of your tour itinerary for more information.

Is tipping customary in Iceland?

Tipping isn't expected in Iceland. Hotels, restaurants and cafes already include a service fee and consumption taxes (VAT) in the bill, so tipping extra isn't necessary. However, feel free to leave a small amount if your experience has been particularly good, especially for assistance provided by drivers, tour leaders or service workers.

What is the internet access like in Iceland?

Travelers will be able to access the internet in cybercafes and at wi-fi hotspots in Iceland's cities and large towns. Rural and remote areas may have less internet access, so be prepared when traveling away from the city.

Most accommodation and eateries in Iceland offer wi-fi access, which is usually free to use with a code. If you wish to stay connected for the majority of your trip, it may be wise to purchase a prepaid SIM card with a data package.

Many Icelandic libraries and tourist information offices have shared computers for public internet access if you are without a device to connect to wi-fi. Sometimes a small fee is charged for this service.

Can I use my cell phone while in Iceland?

Travelers can use their cell phones in Iceland's main cities and towns, though remote and isolated areas may have inferior cell reception.

If you wish to stay connected for the majority of your trip, it may be wise to purchase a prepaid SIM card for the duration of your journey. This will likely be the cheapest way to use your phone in Iceland.

For EU citizens, depending on who you have your phone plan with, you may be able to use your current SIM in Iceland – your service provider will be able to provide more details.

Global roaming can also be activated, but check with your service provider to find out about any fees you may incur, as sometimes this can be expensive.

What are the toilets like in Iceland?

Modern, flushable toilets are the standard in Iceland.

In terms of public toilets, Reykjavik and other major towns and cities have some, but along highways and at many tourist destinations – especially campgrounds and natural attractions – there is a lack of facilities. Expect to pay a small fee when visiting public toilets and, in busy months, expect queues in main tourist areas.

There have been recent occurrences of tourists resorting to other means in remote places and near tourist sites. We recommend being prepared and talking to your group leader if you have any concerns.

What will it cost for a…?

Iceland's unit of currency is the krona. Here's what you can expect to pay for a:

  • Hotdog = ISK 400-600
  • Glass of beer = ISK 1,100-1,500
  • Simple lunch at a cafe = ISK 2,100-3.700
  • Dinner in a restaurant = ISK 2.600-4.200

Can I drink the water in Iceland?

Tap water is considered safe to drink in Iceland unless marked otherwise. For environmental reasons, try to avoid buying bottled water. Fill a reusable water bottle or canteen with filtered water instead.

Are credit cards widely accepted in Iceland?

Credit cards are widely accepted in Iceland and are used frequently by locals to pay for just about anything. Paying with a credit card at shops, guesthouses, supermarkets, restaurants, cafes, and on taxi rides shouldn't present a problem. Iceland is almost a cashless society, so cards are the best option; however, a lot of payments will require your four-digit PIN, so be sure to know this before you leave home.

What is ATM access like in Iceland?

ATMs are usually easy to find in Iceland's cities and villages and generally accept most foreign cards.

What public holidays are celebrated in Iceland?

  • 1 Jan: New Year's Day
  • Mar/Apr: Maundy Thursday, Good Friday, Easter Monday*
  • 1 May: Labur Day
  • May/Jun: Ascension Day*
  • May/Jun: Whit Sunday and Whit Monday*
  • 17 Jun: National Day
  • First Monday in August Commerce Day*
  • 24 Dec: Christmas Eve
  • 25 Dec: Christmas Day
  • 26 Dec: Boxing Day
  • 31 Dec: New Year's Eve

*Please note, Iceland public holidays may vary.

What is the weather like in Iceland?

Iceland’s temperatures are cool and do vary throughout the year. In winter months, minimum temperatures plummet to below freezing. In Reykjavik, summer temperatures average at around 52°F  ( 11°C ), while winter maximums are approximately  32°F ( 0°C ). Rainfall is quite consistent throughout the year; between 1"-2" inches (25–50 mm) per month, with most days experiencing some rainfall.

Is it safe to travel to Iceland?

Iceland is a very safe country to travel to and is one of the safest countries in the world.

Is Iceland safe for LGBTQIA+ travellers?

The people of Iceland have an open and accepting attitude to LGBTQIA+ communities, and Iceland is considered one of the world’s most LGBTQIA+ friendly countries. Since 2006, same-sex couples have had equal access to adoption and IVF, and in 2010 the Icelandic Parliament made a unanimous decision to define marriage as between two individuals. As might be expected in a small country, however, the gay scene is quite low-key, even in Reykjavik.

In 2012, more legislation was passed to formalize the name and identity-changing process for the needs of trans and genderqueer individuals. There is still a way to go to achieve full equality, but Iceland is, in many regards, leading the way globally.

For more detailed and up-to-date advice, we recommend visiting Equaldex or ILGA before you travel and reading more about the LGBTQIA+ culture in Iceland .

If you are traveling solo on an Intrepid group tour, you will share accommodation with a passenger of the same gender as per your passport information. If you don’t identify with the gender assigned on your passport, please let us know at the time of booking and we’ll arrange the rooming configuration accordingly. A single supplement is available on some tours for travellers who do not wish to share a room.

Is Iceland accessible for travelers with disabilities?

Intrepid is committed to making travel widely accessible, regardless of ability or disability. That’s why we do our best to help as many people see the world as possible, regardless of any physical or mental limitations they might have. We’re always happy to talk to travelers with disabilities and see if we can help guide them towards the most suitable itinerary for their needs and, where possible, make reasonable adjustments to our itineraries.

Because of its remote location and size, Iceland can prove difficult when it comes to accessibility for individuals with mobility issues. Some of the main sights, such as the Blue Lagoon, are wheelchair accessible, but many of the natural attractions have unpaved paths and unsteady terrain. Iceland has a dedicated information center,  Thekkingarmidstod Sjalfsbjorg , that provides up-to-date information on accessibility and accessible facilities in Iceland, as well as other related information.

If you do live with a visual, hearing, or other impairment, let your booking agent or group leader know early on so they’re aware and suitable arrangements can be made. As a general rule, knowing some common words in the local language, carrying a written itinerary with you, and taking to the streets in a group, rather than solo, can help make your travel experience the best it can be.

What to wear in Iceland

In summer, Iceland experiences cool but mild weather throughout the country, with maximum temperatures averaging around 55°F. It’s still important, however, to pack some warm clothing at this time, as temperatures at night can drop quite dramatically. In winter, some days barely reach over 32°F, so preparing for this is crucial. It can be wet and windy, and roads may be iced over, so thermal gear, a waterproof jacket and pants and sturdy walking boots are all highly recommended.

How do I stay safe and healthy while traveling?

From Australia?

Go to: Smart Traveller

From Canada?

Go to:  Canada Travel Information

From the UK?

Go to:  UK Foreign Travel Advice

From New Zealand?

Go to:  Safe Travel

From the US?

Go to:  US Department of State

The World Health Organisation also provides useful health information.

Do I need to purchase travel insurance before traveling?

Absolutely. All passengers traveling with Intrepid are required to purchase travel insurance before the start of their trip. Your travel insurance details will be recorded by your leader on the first day of the trip. Due to the varying nature, availability and cost of health care around the world, travel insurance is very much an essential and necessary part of every journey.

For more information on insurance, please go to: Travel Insurance

How will I be traveling around Iceland?

Intrepid believes half the fun of experiencing a new country is getting there, and getting around once there! Where possible, Intrepid uses local transport options and traditional modes of transport – which usually have less of an environmental impact, support small local operators and are much more fun.

Depending on what trip you're on in Iceland, you may find yourself traveling by:

All-terrain Unimog

To see all of Iceland, you’ll need some heavy-duty transport. This super-sized van will take you on glacier visits to admire these almighty ice caps up close.

Amphibian boat

Part truck, part boat, all adventure ­– cruise the Jokulsarlon glacial lagoon in a small group aboard one of these vessels, on land and lake.

What is it like traveling on a small group tour?

Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or you’re about to embark on your first trip, traveling can be as intimidating as it is exciting. That's the beauty of a small group tour. From handling the logistics and organizing amazing cultural activities to local leaders who know each destination like the back of their hand (like which street has the best markets and where to get the most authentic food), traveling on a small group tour with Intrepid will give you unforgettable travel experiences without the hassle that comes with exploring a new place. Plus, you'll have ready-made friends to share the journey with. All you have to do is turn up with a healthy sense of adventure and we’ll take care of the rest.

Does my Intrepid trip include airfare?

While our Intrepid trips include many modes of transport, from tuk-tuks to overland vehicles, bullet trains and feluccas, airfare to and from your home country is not included in your tour package.

Does my trip support The Intrepid Foundation?

Yes, all Intrepid trips support the Intrepid Foundation. Trips to this country directly support our global Intrepid Foundation partners, Eden Reforestation Projects and World Bicycle Relief. Intrepid will double the impact by dollar-matching all post-trip donations made to The Intrepid Foundation.

Eden Reforestation Projects

Eden Reforestation Projects are helping to mitigate climate change by restoring forests worldwide; they also hire locally and create job opportunities within vulnerable communities. Donations from our trips support restoration across planting sites in 10 countries around the globe. Find out more or make a donation World Bicycle Relief

World Bicycle Relief provides people in low-income communities with bicycles to mobilize school kids, health workers, and farmers in far-out areas – giving them access to vital education, healthcare, and income. Donations help provide Buffalo Bicycles – specifically designed to withstand the rugged terrain and harsh environment of rural regions – to those who need them most. Find out more or make a donation

Finding the Universe

Travel tales, photography and a dash of humor

Fjaðrárgljúfur Canyon Iceland

The Best Guided Tours of Iceland for All Seasons

Last updated: December 18, 2023 . Written by Laurence Norah - 6 Comments

In this post, we wanted to share what we think are some of the best guided tours of Iceland. This is for those of you who want to travel in Iceland without a car, saving yourself the effort of driving yourself. It also means someone else does all the work so you can focus on enjoying the experience, which is always nice.

One option we’ve suggested in a previous post is to base yourself in the capital city of Reykjavik, and do day trips to some of Iceland’s highlights .

However, that isn’t the only option. You can also take a multi-day guided tour of Iceland. Multiple companies offer these types of tour, and they range in group size, cost and duration. We’ve gone through loads of the options, and have come up with some of our favourite Iceland tours to help you pick the right option for you.

Tours of Iceland - Lake Myvatn Iceland

These cover some of the best tours in Iceland, and cover a wide range of interests. Whether you’re into hiking, wildlife, photography, white water rafting, snowshoeing… or just experiencing the natural wilderness of Iceland, we’ve found a tour for you!

We’ve also tried to cover all budgets, with tours that range from camping and staying in mountain huts, through to higher end more luxury experiences. Some of the tours we’ve chosen cover a lot of ground, others focus on exploring a smaller region in depth. Many include activities like boat rides, horseback riding, ice cave explorations, and tours to see the Northern Lights.

We’re confident that from our suggestions, you’re going to find a guided tour of Iceland that you love, whether you’re in Iceland for a 2 day stopover or a 2 week adventure!

The Best Tours of Iceland

There are a lot of group tour options to choose from in Iceland, so we’ve decided to split these up based on duration. These range from 2 days to 12 days.

The vast majority of escorted tours in Iceland start in Reykjavik (Iceland’s capital) although a few start in Akureyri (the main city in the north).

Almost all international flights come into Keflavik International Airport near Reykjavik, which is the main airport in Iceland. From here you can either take a tour that starts in Reykjavik, or take a connecting flight to Akureyri in the north as a start point.

For each guided tour, we’ve specified the months that the tour runs in, as the majority of these group tours do not operate year-round. This is because there are different attractions available at different times of year, and accessibility to the different regions of Iceland varies hugely depending on the time of year. For instance, many attractions are closed or not accessible in the winter months.

Don’t forget, if you are in Iceland for a longer period, you can also combine tours, or do part of your trip on a guided tour, and then plan your own itinerary for the rest of your time in Iceland.

Tours of Iceland - Rainbow over Gulfoss Iceland

Tours of Iceland for 3 Days or Less

These Iceland tour packages are all for 3 full days or less. If you only have one day in Iceland, perhaps on a short stopover, we’d suggest taking a look at our guide to day tours from Reykjavik for ideas of what is possible.

1. Ice Caving and Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon (2 days)

This two day tour covers many of the highlights of southern Iceland, starting with the spectacular waterfalls along the south coast, continuing to the famous black sand beach Reynisfjara and finishing at the incredible Jokulsarlon glacier lagoon. Here, you can watch icebergs floating around the lagoon before heading out to sea.

It also covers some of the most popular winter activities in Iceland, namely, visiting an ice cave, and watching the northern lights. We think that for a short stop over, this is an excellent option for seeing a lot with minimal effort. Click here for more information.

When : November – March Duration : 2 days/1 night

2. South Shore and Glacier Lagoon (2 days)

Another two-day tour that focuses on the absolute highlights of the south coast, which features an ice cave visit.

This tour will have you leaving Reykjavik and exploring highlights like Reynisfjara beach, the Jokulsarlon Glacial Lagoon and of course the famous waterfalls of the south coast including Seljalandsfoss and Skogafoss. Click here for more information.

When : November – March Duration : 2 days / 1 night

3. 2 Day Snæfellsnes Tour (2 days)

If you’d like to explore some of the west of Iceland rather than the south coast, then this is the tour for you. Covering two days of exploration, this tour will take you to the beautiful sideways waterfall Hraunfossar, one of Iceland’s longest lava tunnels and the attractions of the Snaefellsnes Peninsula.

This is a great way to experience some of Iceland’s western attractions, and as the tour runs through winter, you might even be lucky enough to see the northern lights!

When : Year round Duration : 2 days / 1 night

4. Golden Circle, Glacier Hike & Glacier Lagoon (3 days)

If you have a bit more time, then this tour is similar to the above, but with the addition of the Golden Circle. This is one of the most popular day excursions from Reykjavik, and includes the waterfall Gullfoss, the UNESCO listed Þingvellir National Park, and the Geysir Geothermal area, where you can see actual geysers going off.

For more information, see our full guide to the Golden Circle .

After the Golden Circle, the tour continues along the south coast, covering the glacier lagoon including a boat ride on the lagoon itself, black sand beaches and an glacier hike.

A similar 3 day tour is also available in winter  here . This doesn’t have the boat ride on the lagoon as these don’t operate in winter, however it does have ice caving and the Northern Lights!

When : Mar – Oct, winter version here and here Duration : 3 days/2 nights

Tours of Iceland - Landmannalaugar Iceland

3 – 5 Day Guided Tours of Iceland

With 3 – 5 days to play with, you can get a bit further from the capital and pack more in to your adventure. You’re also a bit less rushed, and can look at longer adventures, including one of Iceland’s most famous and popular multi-day hikes. Here are some of our recommended 3-5 day tours in Iceland.

1. Snaefellsnes, Golden Circle & South Iceland (4 days)

This four day tour takes in the highlights of south and west Iceland. You start with a trip a round the Golden Circle, taking in Thingvellir National Park, Gullfoss waterfall and the geysers at Geysir, before continuing along the south coast to the Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon.

Then you’ll head to west Iceland, including the Deildartunguhver hot spring and sideways Hraunfossar waterfall. It then heads out to the beautiful Snaefellsnes Peninsula, with the option to explore a Lava Cave.

At the start or end of the trip, depending on your flight time, you might also want to add on a trip to the Blue Lagoon .

When : Oct – April Duration : 5 days/4 nights

2. Northern Iceland (5 days)

If you want to get away from the crowds of the south coast of Iceland, then a good option is to head north. This tour does just that, starting from Akureyri on the north coast.

From here you will explore some of the incredible highlights of the north of Iceland, including Godafoss waterfall and the Lake Myvatn region (home to some of our favourite nature baths!).

This is definitely a less trodden, but still absolutely beautiful part of Iceland, and we know you’ll have an amazing time on this tour.

When : May – Nov Duration : 5 days/4 nights

3. Reykjavik, Blue Lagoon, Golden Circle, South Coast (5 days)

This tour covers many of the popular highlights of Iceland, including the Blue Lagoon and the highlights of the Golden Circle, including Thingvellir National Park, Gullfoss waterfall, and the geysers at Geysir.

It also spends two days along the south coast, taking you all the way out to the Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon and the Diamond beach, with accommodation in the Vatnajökull National Park. Definitely a good summer option for the classic highlights of southern Iceland.

If you’re visiting in winter, consider this option which also includes an ice cave visit.

When : Mar – Oct Duration : 5 days/4 nights

4. Trekking from Landmannalaugar (5 days)

If you want to really get under the skin of some of Iceland’s remote volcanic wilderness areas, then the best way to do that is with a multi-day hike. One of the most popular and beautiful hikes in Iceland is this one, the Laugavegur trail, which runs from Landmannalaugar to Thorsmork.

Aimed at intermediate to advanced hikers, the trek with a local guide starts in Landmannalaugar, home to gorgeous colourful mountains and a hotspot of geothermal activity. From here, you spend four days hiking across the stunning landscapes, camping each night in the wilderness huts along the route.

When : June – September Duration : 5 days/4 nights

5. South Iceland including the Westman Islands (3 days)

In their rush to tick off all the highlights of the south coast, many visitors never make it out to the beautiful Westman Islands. These are a mere 40 minute ferry ride from the mainland, and are home to huge numbers of seabirds in the Spring and Summer, including puffins.

This south Iceland tour doesn’t make that mistake. It covers all the highlights you would expect on the south coast of Iceland, including the black sand beach, Vatnajökull National Park, and Jokulsarlon Glacial Lagoon, but also includes a day and a night on the Westman islands, which in our opinion are very much worth a visit.

When : June – August Duration : 3 days/2 nights

Tours of Iceland - Puffins Iceland

6 – 7 Day Guided Tours of Iceland

1. northern lights and ice caves (7 days).

Visiting Iceland in winter lets you experience some of nature’s most spectacular wonders, including the Northern Lights. It’s also the time of year in Iceland when it safest to actually go inside the ice caves.

This tour offers both of these activities, as well as a visit to all three national parks in Iceland, Þingvellir National Park on the Golden Circle, Snæfellsjökull National Park in the west, and Vatnajökull National Park in South Iceland. You will also see the majority of the highlights of west and south Iceland. A good winter option for seeing the highlights of this region of Iceland.

When : Oct – April Duration : 7 days/6 nights

2. An epic 6 day hiking adventure (6 days)

Two of Iceland’s most famous treks are the Laugavegur trek and the Fimmvörðuháls trek, and this guided hiking tour has you doing both of them across six incredible days.

This is definitely the tour for those of you who love to hike, and is aimed at the intermediate to advanced trekker.

You’ll be walking every day across stunning volcanic landscapes and sleeping dormitory style in mountain huts.

The tour also includes your luggage transportation between huts and all your meals, meaning you can focus on just enjoying the hiking!

When : Jun – Sep Duration : 6 days/5 nights

3. Complete Iceland Circle (6 days)

Six days is definitely the minimum you’ll want to allocate to doing the full circle of Iceland, and even so, you’ll miss a few things.

Still, if do want to cover the whole country, this is an excellent and well reviewed tour that covers all the highlights of Iceland’s ring road , including the Golden Circle, the south coast, Akureyri and Lake Myvatn regions. If you are a bit short on time but keen to see as much as possible, this is a good option.

When : Year round Duration : 6 days/5 nights

4. Best of Iceland (7 days)

This 7 day small group tour (maximum 16 people) covers all the highlights of the ring road, including Akureyri, Lake Myvatn, the east coast, south coast highlights and the Golden circle.

Seven days is still quite a fast pace for the full Iceland ring road, but this tour will let you see all the highlights. 6 nights of accommodation are included as are six breakfasts.

Another option with a similar itinerary and which runs in more months of the year can be found here .

When : Apr – Oct Duration : 7 days/6 nights

Super Jeep Tour of Iceland

8-10 Day Guided Tours of Iceland

With seven to ten days in Iceland, you have enough time to take a tour around the whole country, or spend some time really focusing on one or two areas. Here are what we think are some of the best options for tours of a week to ten days in Iceland.

1. Complete Iceland Circle Tour in Winter (8 days)

If you are visiting Iceland in winter and want to complete the ring road, then this is a good option. Winter driving in Iceland is no joke, so letting someone else handle that while you enjoy the scenery and attractions is a great idea.

This tour includes whale watching, an ice cave tour and a glacier hike, as well as Icelandic highlights such as the Golden Circle, south coast waterfalls and Snaefellsnes Peninsula. It packs a lot in!

When : Sep – Mar Duration : 8 days/7 nights

2. Game of Thrones Tour (8 days)

If you’re a Game of Thrones fan in Iceland for eight days, this is definitely the tour you want to take. As you are probably already aware, much of the HBO series was filmed in Iceland, particularly the scenes north of “the Wall”.

This tour takes you to all the major filming location in the country, including those in the north of Iceland, where you’ll explore many of the filming locations around Lake Myvatn. It also include many other awesome Iceland sights including waterfalls, volcanoes and hot springs.

See our full guide to Game of Thrones filming locations in Iceland for more.

When : Apr – Oct Duration : 8 days/7 nights

3. Iceland Complete Tour (10 Days)

If you have around seven to ten days in Iceland and want to see a bit of everything, this is definitely the tour we recommend. It circumnavigates the whole country, and you’re going to get to see nearly all the highlights.

This includes the Golden Circle, the south shore, the East Fjords, Dettifoss, the Lake Myvatn area, and Akureyri. You’ll see waterfalls, glacial lagoons, volcanic landscape, interesting museums, Icelandic horses, hot springs, and much, much more. Definitely one to add to your short list for 9 days in Iceland.

A similar tour is also available in an 8 day version here .

When : May – Sep Duration : 10 days/9 nights

4. Snowshoeing, Northern Lights, Snæfellsnes Peninsula & Northern Iceland (9 days)

If you are looking for an active trip in Iceland, this National Geographic tour may be for you. Led by a National Geographic guide, this active tour has you taking in a great many of Iceland’s attractions, many by snowshoeing or hiking.

It starts with you exploring Reykjavik, before heading along the south coast to explore attractions including Seljalandsfoss, Gljúfrabúi and the Lava Center. It then continues to the Jökulsárlón glacial lagoon and Vatnajökull National Park.

You then head back towards Reykjavik via the Golden Circle, then up to the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, where you spend a couple of days exploring, and amongst other activities, take a glacier tour. 

When : Feb – Nov Duration : 9 days/8 nights

5. Magical Iceland Tour (8 days)

This 8 day winter tour has you exploring many of the highlights of Iceland. You’ll explore the south coast of Iceland for two days, visit the Blue Lagoon, have a chance to see the Northern Lights and visit a Lava Cave.

This itinerary has you based out of Reykjavik for the whole time, and basically taking day trips from here. It includes a number of activities, such as a city tour, blue lagoon, whale watching and lava tunnel visit.

When : year round Duration : 8 days/7 nights

jokulsarlon glacier lagoon iceland

10+ Day Iceland Tours

If you’re lucky enough to be visiting Iceland for more than ten days, you’re going to be able to see a great deal of this incredible country. There aren’t many 10 day+ group tours in Iceland, but the ones that we’ve chosen are going to showcase the best of the country, whatever time of year you visit.

1. Iceland Grand Tour  (12 days)

If you’re looking for a slightly longer tour that covers all of Iceland, this might be a good option. This tour includes a complete circle of Iceland, so you’ll see all the highlights including the Golden Circle, the south coast and its black sand beaches and magnificent waterfalls and the Fjords of the East. It also includes a night in Reykjavik where you can sightsee.

It also includes the magical Lake Myvatn area, where much of Game of Thrones was filmed, and which is also home to the beautiful Lake Myvatn baths.

The tour heads also includes many highlights of the west coast, including the Westfjords and Snæfellsnes Peninsula. This tour includes 10 dinners and 11 breakfasts, as well as a ferry trip, boat trip and whale watching tour.

When : May – Sep Duration : 12 days/11 nights

2. Iceland Photography Workshop (12 days)

Iceland is world renowned as a spectacular photography location, so why not take advantage of that and join a photography tour of Iceland? This will guarantee you get to the most photogenic spots in the country, plus you’ll be accompanied by a professional photographer guide who will help you get the most out of the trip.

The tour includes stunning locations like the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, Hvitserkur & North Iceland, Lake Myvatn, the highlights of east Iceland, Vatnajokull National Park, the stunning Vestrahorn mountain range and finishes along the south coast. You’ll see all the best bits of Iceland, and be guaranteed to leave with incredible photos!

When : May – Aug Duration : 12 days/11 nights

3. Circle of Iceland and Snaefellsnes Peninsula  (12 days)

This 12 day group tour will take you on a complete circuit of Iceland, including the Snaefellsnes Peninsula and whale watching.

If you have the time and budget, this is definitely going to be a tour that gets you to as much of Iceland as possible. It includes the majority of your breakfasts, tour guide and accommodation. However, be aware that most activities like whale watching are not included, and evening meals aren’t either, so you will need to factor these in to your overall budget.

When : Aug – Apr. Summer version available here . Duration : 12 days/11 nights

Coach Tour Iceland offroad

Which tour company to use in Iceland?

There are multiple tour operators in Iceland, so picking the right one for your trip is definitely important.

On our trips to Iceland, we’ve used a number of tour operators and booking portals. These include Iceland Travel , Get Your Guide, Viator , Guide to Iceland and TourRadar .

Our experiences have been positive with all the companies we’ve used, so we suggest you find the tour that works for you from one of those two options. We also list a few tours from other companies above as well, including National Geographic and G Adventures .

What is Typically Included in a Guided Group Tour in Iceland?

Most guided tours in Iceland include the following, although do always read the tour description for full details of what is included.

  • Accommodation (level of accommodation will vary)
  • An English speaking guide
  • Activities that are specifically included in the tour description
  • Some meals, usually breakfast, sometimes other meals too
  • Equipment for activities that are included on the tour, such as snowshoeing
  • Internal flights, if required as part of the tour

If it’s not clear if an activity or feature is included, it will normally not be included, but do always check with the tour operator before booking so as to avoid any costly surprises.

What is Typically Excluded in a Guided Bus Tour in Iceland?

Whilst they include a lot, not everything will be included in your tour. Typical exclusions include the following.

  • Gratuities, although these are not normally expected in Iceland
  • Additional activities not explicitly included, which may include northern light tours or activities like horse trekking
  • Some meals – often breakfast is included with the accommodation, and other meals are not
  • Transfers to and from the airport, unless specifically included
  • Clothing, hiking equipment or footwear. A good pair of hiking boots is a good idea in Iceland
  • Flights to and from Iceland, or internally in Iceland if not a part of the tour
  • Travel insurance

It’s important when comparing tours to compare what is included and excluded. A tour that includes all your meals for example can result in being good value for money as meals can be expensive in Iceland, and this is a similar story for attraction entry. Remember – don’t just check the headline prices when comparing tours, always carefully check what is included and excluded.

When to Visit Iceland?

As you’ll have noticed throughout the post, few guided tours in Iceland run year round. This is because Iceland is a country that varies dramatically between the seasons.

In the winter months, generally from around December through to April, there is far less daylight available. Weather conditions and snow also mean roads can be closed, and the highland roads in particular are shut completely.

The benefits at this time of year though are that you have the chance to see the Northern Lights, and there are fewer visitors.

If you are visiting Iceland in winter, check out our guide to what to pack for Iceland in winter to get prepared. We also suggest reading our guide to how to photograph the northern lights to be sure you get great photos!

jokulsarlon glacier lagoon iceland

In the summer months, generally May – September, the days are much longer, and you have the chance to experience the midnight sun.

This means you can fit a lot more into each day, and tour itineraries tend to be a bit fuller at this time of year. It’s also likely to be a bit warmer and sunnier, although our experience has taught us that Iceland is by no means a warm destination at any time of year.

We’ve visited Iceland in both summer and winter, and enjoyed our visits at both times of year. It’s just a question of being prepared and knowing what to expect.

Private Tours in Iceland

All the tours that we’ve listed in this guide so far have been guided group tours. Whilst these vary in size, they aren’t private tours, and so you will be sharing the experience with other people, with group sizes varying depending on the tour you choose. Often, more expensive tours will feature smaller groups.

Of course, it is entirely possible to also do a private tour of Iceland. These have the advantage that it will just be you and your group, rather than anyone else. It also means you will likely be able to customise the itinerary, and ensure you see everything you want to see.

The downside to a private group tour is that it is likely going to be the most expensive option for travelling in Iceland. However, it will certainly be a unique and memorable experience!

Some private tours to consider in Iceland are:

  • This three day private tour that includes the golden circle , south coast and glacial lagoon
  • This six day private tour which includes the Golden Circle, Snaefellsnes Peninsula, South Coast and the Blue Lagoon
  • This seven day private tour which includes the Golden Circle, Snaefellsnes Peninsula, South Coast and the Blue Lagoon as well as time sightseeing in Reykjavik
  • This seven day luxury private tour which has you travelling in a luxury vehicle, staying at the finest hotels in Iceland, and seeing the best sights Iceland has to offer!

You can see more private tours in Iceland on TourRadar here .

Further Reading for Visiting Iceland

Hopefully this post has helped you navigate through the plethora of group tour options available in Iceland! We’ve visited Iceland a number of times and loved our time in this incredible country. We’ve also put together a number of other posts to help you plan your visit, be that on a guided tour, a self-drive adventure, or another option. Here are some of our favourite guides.

  • We have a detailed guide to help you  plan an Iceland trip,  which has everything you could need to help you plan an awesome adventure in Iceland
  • We’ve created a list of some of our  favourite photography locations in Iceland  from our travels there to give you some ideas of where to aim to get the best photos. We also have a specific guide to finding the Iceland plane crash .
  • We’ve got a guide to the  best day trips from Reykjavik  should you wish to base yourself in the capital and do trips  from there
  • We have a guide to the Golden Circle to help you plan your time on that popular day trip
  • We have itineraries for self-drive trips in Iceland, including a  seven day Iceland itinerary , a guide to spending 5 days in Iceland , and an Iceland ring road itinerary .
  • If you’re heading to Iceland in winter and planning on driving yourself, check out our detailed  guide to driving in Iceland in winter  to help prepare yourself
  • If you’re visiting Iceland in Winter, check out our guide to the  best winter activities in Iceland  and my  tips for cold weather photography
  • We have a detailed packing guide to help you decide  what to pack for Iceland in winter
  • If you are interested in seeing Puffins in Iceland, check out our detailed guide to Puffins in Iceland , which has everything you need to know!
  • We have a guide to visiting the Blue Lagoon in Iceland
  • Iceland is an expensive destination. Here’s a guide to  how to save money in Iceland  to help you make the most of your trip
  • The weather in Iceland can be fickle – the best website for real-time cloud cover is  this one from the Icelandic Met Office .
  • Whilst Iceland is a safe country to travel in when it comes to things like crime, the country itself is home to extreme conditions and all sorts of seismic activity. So to stay safe as you go, check out the  safetravel Iceland page

And that sums up our guide to the best group tours in Iceland! Have you been to Iceland, or are you considering it? Will you be taking a group tour? Do you have any questions or feedback about any of the above? As always, we’re happy to hear your feedback and answer your questions – just let us know in the comments below!

An overview of some of the best tours of Iceland. This post focuses on guided and group tours in Iceland, varying from 2 days to 12 days, and covers visiting Iceland at all times of year across all budgets!

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There are 6 comments on this post

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Hiram Ruiz says

8th June 2022 at 7:43 pm

I’ve read reviews that state that on 2-3 day tours the stops at the sites are very brief and most time is spent in the bus. Are there any 2-3 day tours that visit less sites but spend more time at each? Going g November. Thx.

Laurence Norah says

9th June 2022 at 10:03 am

So this is a tricky one. The challenge is that many of the attractions in Iceland are quite a distance apart from each other, so driving is hard to avoid. In addition, each attraction such as a waterfall or landscape view tends to be something that most people are happy to only spend a short while at. They get their photos, they see the scene, they are ready to move on. Tour operators also have the challenge that when people compare tours, most visitors will see a tour with more stops as better. So tour operators that offer tours with less stops don’t do so well, hence it’s hard to find that sort of tour!

Honestly, if you want a tour with longer stops, you are likely going to be better off hiring a car and self-driving. The alternative would be a custom private tour, although those tend to be rather expensive.

Apologies this isn’t necessarily the answer you were looking for!

Have a great time in Iceland!

Atlastravel says

31st August 2018 at 1:11 pm

We’re keen to come to Iceland mid December. There are 8 of us and would like a private tour. Is this possible?

31st August 2018 at 2:40 pm

That would definitely be possible. We’re not a tour operator, however there are lots of tour options for you when it comes to booking a private tour. Of course, it will depend on your itinerary, but for example,

Here’s a 2 day private tour: https://guidetoiceland.is/book-holiday-trips/glacial-lagoon-south-coast-private-tour-2-days?a=133265

Here’s a 3 day private tour: https://guidetoiceland.is/book-holiday-trips/glacial-lagoon-south-coast-private-tour-2-days?a=133265

this is a 6 day private tour: https://shareasale.com/r.cfm?b=132440&u=969916&m=18208&urllink=www%2Eviator%2Ecom%2Ftours%2FReykjavik%2F6%2DDay%2DPrivate%2DTour%2Dof%2DICELAND%2Fd905%2D8740P68&afftrack=FTUIcelandGuidedTours

This is a 7 day tour: https://shareasale.com/r.cfm?b=132440&u=969916&m=18208&urllink=www%2Eviator%2Ecom%2Ftours%2FReykjavik%2F7%2DDay%2DPrivate%2DTour%2Dof%2DICELAND%2Fd905%2D8740P69&afftrack=FTUIcelandGuidedTours

And this is a 9 day private tour: https://shareasale.com/r.cfm?b=132440&u=969916&m=18208&urllink=www%2Eviator%2Ecom%2Ftours%2FReykjavik%2FIceland%2DFull%2DCircle%2Din%2D9%2Ddays%2Dand%2D8%2Dnights%2DLuxury%2DPrivate%2DTour%2Din%2DIceland%2Fd905%2D35454P33&afftrack=FTUIcelandGuidedTours

We can also recommend getting in touch with Iceland Travel directly, who might be able to help put together a custom itinerary for you. We’ve always had a good experience working with them: https://www.icelandtravel.is/?ref=findingtheuniverse&tm_site=FTUguidedtours

I hope this helps! Have a great trip 🙂

Sheila Simpson says

16th August 2018 at 6:03 pm

Love your photos! Iceland is on my short list of places I want to visit next. I’m enjoying reading your tips and ideas. I’m glad I found your site.

16th August 2018 at 6:56 pm

Thanks very much Sheila – have a wonderful trip, and don’t hesitate to comment again if you have any questions 🙂

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Full Suitcase Travel Blog

13 Absolute Best Iceland Tours & Day Trips (All Seasons)

By Author Jurga

Posted on Last updated: September 12, 2023

13 Absolute Best Iceland Tours & Day Trips (All Seasons)

Visiting Iceland soon and planning to take guided tours, but are not sure which Iceland tours are best and worth your time the most? In this article, you’ll find our hand-picked selection of the best tours in Iceland . Whether you are making a short stopover in Reykjavik or are traveling around the whole country, this list should help you plan your trip. Find out!

If you are visiting Iceland for the first time, it might be difficult to decide where to go first. Therefore I made this selection of the very best and most popular day tours in Iceland:  best day trips from Reykjavik, most popular wildlife excursions, and also tours in the North of Iceland… It will give you a good idea of what Iceland’s must-see places are and what to expect. Most of these tours and guided trips are available the whole year round; some – are seasonal.

Good to know: Most tours in this selection can be done as a day trip from Reykjavik, but some tours depart from other locations. In this article, we focus on  the best Iceland tours for all seasons. If you are interested in winter tours ( Northern Lights in Iceland , ice caves, snowmobile tours, etc), check out our guide to the best winter tours and day trips from Reykjavik .

If you rather explore Iceland on a self-drive trip (recommended, definitely in summer), check our Iceland itinerary suggestions .  But even if you are exploring Iceland by car, you may still want to look into booking a whale-watching excursion, visiting the Blue Lagoon , Sky Lagoon , etc.

Most tours I selected here are bookable through GetYourGuide – our #1 choice when it comes to booking guided tours and excursions for our trips. The reason is simple – they have an excellent reputation, great customer service, competitive prices, and FREE 24 hr cancelation.

For each tour, I also give some practical details to help you plan your trip. Find out!

Did you know that… The most popular ‘tour’ booked in Iceland is the airport transfer to the city . With taxis charging ten times the price of the bus, I strongly recommend you book a bus transfer as well. Check here for more information about the best way to get to Reykjavik from Keflavik airport .

Best Tours in Iceland – OVERVIEW

  • Golden Circle
  • Blue Lagoon & other geothermal baths
  • South Coast
  • Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon
  • Snæfellsnes Peninsula
  • Whale watching
  • Puffin tours
  • Silfra snorkeling tours
  • Icelandic horse riding
  • Glacier hiking
  • Lake Mývatn and Dettifoss Waterfall
  • Icelandic Highlands (summer only)
  • More great tours and day trips in Iceland: lava caves, snowmobiling, volcano…

TIP: We list the most popular tours in Iceland first, so if you are short on time, start with the top of this list and you’ll be sure to cover all the must-sees.

These are the best Iceland tours:

1. Golden Circle

Golden Circle is the no. 1 must-see place in Iceland. Whether you are visiting for a day or for two weeks, no trip to Iceland would be complete without visiting the Golden Circle.

Golden Circle is an area that comprises three famous landmarks – the Geysir area, Gullfoss waterfall, and Thingvellir National Park. Due to its proximity to Reykjavik, this is by far the most popular tour in Iceland.

You can visit Golden Circle by car, or you can opt for one of the many available guided tours from Reykjavik. Below are some of the very best options:

  • Golden Circle Full-Day Grand Tour with Kerid Crater from Reykjavik – the most popular Golden Circle tour
  • Full Day Premium Golden Circle Tour by Minibus – best small-group tour
  • Golden Circle Afternoon Tour – see the main highlights in half a day

All seasons Departs from Reykjavik

Iceland trip itinerary suggestions - from one day to two weeks

2. Blue Lagoon and other geothermal baths

The Blue Lagoon is an outdoor geothermal spa close to Reykjavik and Keflavik airport. It is one of the most visited attractions in Iceland and you really have to book tickets in advance . Blue Lagoon is located about 30-40 minutes drive from Reykjavik city center. So unless you have a car it’s best to book a bus transfer from Reykjavik .

TIP: Recently, a new geothermal pool was opened in Iceland, just next to the city. It’s called Sky Lagoon and looks absolutely amazing! You can easily visit from the city by booking this tour which includes bus transfer and entrance tickets . If you have a car, you can also easily drive there and just book the entrance tickets . Check it out – the views are incredible!

There’s also another less touristy (and cheaper) geothermal pool near Reykjavik – Secret Lagoon . Another great option is  Laugarvatn Fontana geothermal baths .

You can also visit these geothermal baths with a guided tour, usually in combination with the Golden Circle:

  • Golden Circle and Blue Lagoon Small Group Tour
  • Secret Lagoon Early Access & Golden Circle
  • Golden Circle and Fontana Wellness Tour

Blue Lagoon spa - the most popular excursion in Iceland

3. South Coast Tours

Iceland’s South Coast is another highlight that you must see. It is easily doable as a day trip from Reykjavik and is, therefore, a very popular trip. In fact, south coast tours are the most popular tours in Iceland.

You will visit the famous waterfalls Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss, Reynisfjara black sand beach and the nearby Vik village, Sólheimajökull glacier, and more.

Here are the best-rated south coast tours:

  • South of Iceland Full-Day Tour from Reykjavik – the most popular South Coast tour.
  • South Coast Classic: Full-Day Tour from Reykjavik . This popular tour is the best option for families: kids under 12 travel free and 12-15-year-olds pay half the price.
  • Iceland’s South Coast Day Tour by Minibus . This tour is a bit more expensive, but traveling with a small group has many benefits.

All seasons Departs from Reykjavik 

LEARN MORE: Best Things to Do on the South Coast of Iceland

Skogafoss waterfall along Iceland's south coast

4. Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon

Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon and the adjacent Diamond Beach is my favorite place in Iceland. However, it’s located quite far from Reykjavik. So it requires a full day trip with many hours of driving if you decide to visit it with a day tour.

I wouldn’t advise doing this trip in just one day unless you are really short on time. But if you only have a day to spare and want to see this stunning glacial lagoon, then yes, it is possible to visit Jokulsarlon as a day trip from Reykjavik.

In summer, the days are long and this trip will be very different than in winter, giving you more chances to admire the beautiful South Coast along the way. If you are visiting in winter, consider a 2-day tour instead. That way, you get to see the South Coast and possibly also visit an ice cave.

Despite the long drive, a day trip to Jokulsarlon is one of the most popular tours in Iceland and the customer reviews are great. Below are the best Jokulsarlon tours from Reykjavik:

  • Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon Full-Day Tour from Reykjavik – the most popular bus tour.
  • South Coast & Jökulsárlón Glacial Lagoon – small group tour.

Iceland winter wonderland - icebergs on Jokulsarlon beach in winter

5. Snæfellsnes Peninsula

Another long day trip from Reykjavik, a visit to the Snæfellsnes Peninsula is an unforgettable experience. If you are looking for the best, must-do tours that you can do in Iceland in any season, this is one of those places that are absolutely worth your time.

Here are the best tours of Snaefellsnes Peninsula from Reykjavik:

  • Snæfellsnes Peninsula Full- Day Tour from Reykjavik – the most popular option.
  • Snaefellsnes Peninsula Premium Small Group Tour – the best small group tour.

READ ALSO: Best Things to Do in Snaefellsnes Peninsula

Iceland tours - Snaefellsnes Peninsula

Now that we covered all the must-see places that you really should try to see in Iceland, below are more amazing tours that will make your trip even more special. Take a look!

6. Whale-watching tours

There are several places where you can go whale watching in Iceland. The most popular are Reykjavik and Husavik (North of Iceland), but there are some other great options as well.

Reykjavik whale-watching tours are available the whole year, but please note that the best time to see whales in Iceland is from April through September. The best place to see whales in Iceland is up North, with Husavik often called the whale-watching capital of Iceland.

Here are the best whale-watching tours in Iceland:

  • Whale Watching Tour from Reykjavik . There are several options in Reykjavik, but this tour is the most popular and has the best ratings. It’s also one of the most affordable options that I found. This tour runs in all seasons.
  • Traditional Whale Watching Tour from Husavik – the best tour in Husavik. Summer only.
  • Original Big Whale Safari & Puffin Island Tour by RIB speedboat – a good option from Husavik for those who tend to get seasick on a regular boat and want to get closer to the whales.

Mid-March through November Departs from Reykjavik or from Husavik (1h15 drive from Akureyri)

Whale watching tour in Iceland

7. Puffin tours

No summer trip to Iceland would be complete without seeing the puffins. There are some land-based trips, but if you are looking to do tours, the best use of your time is to combine puffin tours with whale watching. Here are the best options:

  • Puffin Watching Boat Tour – the most popular option.
  • Combo: Puffin Cruise & Whale-Watching Tour – they also explicitly look for whales.
  • Small-Group Puffin Watching RIB Cruise – ideal for those who are short on time.

May till Mid August Departs from Reykjavik

  • Húsavík Whale Watching and Puffins
  • Húsavík: Big Whale Safari & Puffin Island Tour by RIB speed boat

April/May till August/October Departs from Husavik  (1h15 driving from Akureyri)

Iceland tours to see puffins

8. Silfra snorkeling tours

Silfra is one of the top diving sites in the world, but even if you don’t dive, you can explore the bright blue and crystal clear waters with incredible visibility of up to 100 meters.

  • Silfra Fissure Snorkeling – the most popular tour that includes pick-up in Reykjavik
  • Silfra Fissure Snorkeling Tour with Underwater Photos – the most popular tour that starts in Thingvellir National Park

All seasons Departs from Thingvellir NP or Reykjavik (optional at extra cost).

Best combination tours that include Silfra Snorkelling:

  • Golden Circle & Silfra Snorkeling
  • Reykjavik Combo Snorkel in Silfra Fissure & Lava Caving

Silfra snorkeling tours in Iceland

9. Icelandic horseback riding tours

Icelandic horses are rather small, but it would be a big insult to call them ponies. Riding an Icelandic horse is typically an Icelandic thing to do, especially if you do it in a beautiful location in the lava fields.

Most tours are meant for tourists with little or no experience in horse riding. It’s a family-friendly experience that anyone can join.

  • Icelandic Horse Riding Tour in Lava Fields (3-4 hrs) – the most popular horseback riding tour near Reykjavik. Transfer optional.
  • Red Lava Horseback Riding – includes a pick-up from Reykjavik.

All seasons Departs from Reykjavik or from Hafnarfjordur (20 min drive from Reykjavik)

Horseback riding tour in Iceland

10. Glacier hiking & Ice caves

Glacier hiking is another great year-round excursion that you shouldn’t miss in Iceland.

These are the best glacier hiking tours from Reykjavik:

  • Glacier Hiking & South Coast
  • Glacier Hiking and Ice Climbing Tour
  • Small-Group South Coast Tour & Glacier Hike

These popular glacier hiking tours start directly at the glacier and are therefore a bit cheaper:

  • Sólheimajökull Glacier Guided Hike
  • Skaftafell Glacier Hike

All seasons, unless specified otherwise Departs from Reykjavik, Sólheimajökull Café (25 min drive from Vik ) or Skaftafell NP.

LEARN MORE: Complete guide to glacier hiking in Iceland

In addition to glacier hiking, you can also visit ice caves . While most ice cave tours only run in winter (+- November to March), there is one tour that is also available in summer. Please keep in mind that ice caves are a natural phenomenon and so the conditions change all the time and you never really know in advance what exactly you get to see.

Here are the best ice cave tours in Iceland:

  • Katla Ice Cave – the only natural ice cave that can be visited the whole year round AND you can visit it from Reykjavik as well!
  • Langjökull Glacier Ice Cave Tour – a man-made ice tunnel not far from Reykjavik that you can visit the whole year round.
  • Skaftafell: Ice Cave Tour & Glacier Hike .
  • Vatnajokull Glacier: Ice Caving and Glacier Hiking .

Departs from Skaftafell NP or from Vik, except Langjökull glacier or Katla ice cave which is also possible from Reykjavik.

Glacier hiking guides in Iceland

11. Lake Mývatn and Dettifoss Waterfall

One of the most beautiful and must-see places in the North of Iceland is the area around Lake Myvatn. You can visit it by car, or you can join a guided tour from Akureyri. There are also tours that combine Lake Myvatn with the Dettifoss waterfall.

  • Day Trip to Lake Mývatn and Dettifoss
  • Day Trip to Lake Mývatn And The Nature Baths
  • Myvatn Shore Excursion – perfect for those visiting Akureyri by cruise ship
  • Myvatn Nature Baths

All seasons Departs from Akureyri (North Iceland)

LEARN MORE: Best Things to Do in Myvatn

Lake Myvatn - most popular day tour in Northern Iceland

12. Icelandic Highlands

If you visit Iceland in summer, don’t miss the chance to see the highlands of Iceland! It’s a whole other world and completely different than anything else you’ll see in Iceland. 

You do need a super-jeep to properly explore the highlands, so it’s ideal if you can visit with a guided tour. The most popular trips in the highlands include Thorsmork and Landmannalaugar.

Here are the best Icelandic highlands tours from Reykjavik:

  • Day Trip to Landmannalaugar
  • Thorsmork Volcano Hike Super Jeep & Hiking Tour

Recently, I made a 4-day trip Icelandic highlands trip with a private driver and it’s by far the most special trip EVER.

If you don’t have the time or the budget for a longer trip, check this one-day trip from Reykjavik that covers some of the most amazing places in the highlands: The Secret Circle . It’s organized by the same private guide that I traveled with and I can wholeheartedly recommend it to everyone looking for a very unique tour in Iceland!

Summer only Departs from Reykjavik

Haifoss waterfall in Iceland's highlands

13. Even more amazing day trips and tours in Iceland

There are so many more great tours and day trips that you can do in Iceland. Here are a few of the most popular options:

  • Lava Caving Small Group Tour .
  • Langjokull Glacier & Ice Cave . This is one of the best options if you want to visit a glacier ice cave in any season.
  • Glacier Snowmobiling on Langjokull Glacier . This tour starts at Gullfoss waterfall on the Golden Circle.
  • Golden Circle & Snowmobiling Tour . Similar tour to the above, but it departs from Reykjavik and also includes the Golden Circle.
  • Game of Thrones filming locations tour . P.S. If you are a fan, make sure to also check our selection of the best Game of Thrones tours in other European filming locations.
  • ATV Quad tours .
  • Helicopter tours .

All seasons, unless indicated otherwise Departs from Reykjavik, unless indicated otherwise 

TIP: One of the newest tours in Iceland at the moment is hiking to the eruption site of the Fagradalsfjall or Merdalir volcanos. The eruption at Fagradasfjall started in March 2021 and was going on for several months. A year later, in 2022, the Merdalir volcano erupted just nearby. In 2023, Fagradasfjall woke up again for a few days. Even if these volcanos aren’t active anymore, the lava flows are still very impressive and worth seeing.

You can hike there on your own, or you can go on one of the many tours . They pick you up in Reykjavik and guide you on a hike to the volcano. These recent volcano eruption sites are really worth seeing if visiting Iceland at the moment.

Best things to do in Iceland - Fagradalsfjall volcano

So this is our hand-picked selection of the very best tours in Iceland. There are of course many more options, also tours that combine several places, or multi-day tours… You can find the complete selection of the best tours in Iceland on the GetYourGuide website . It’s our one-stop shop for booking all our tours when we travel.

TIP: If you are looking for something more off the beaten path, a really special place that you can visit in a day, consider the Westman Islands . It can be done as a day trip from Reykjavik, with a tour , or from the South Coast.

READ ALSO: Best Half-Day Tours from Reykjavik

More tips for your trip to Iceland:

  • What to see:   Best Places to See in Iceland & Best Places on the South Coast of Iceland
  • Airport transfers:  How to Get to Reykjavik from Keflavik Airport
  • Budget:  How Expensive is Iceland
  • Accommodation:   Where to Stay in Iceland
  • Winter trip: Tips for Iceland in Winter
  • What to Wear in Iceland in Winter
  •   What to Pack for Iceland in Summer
  • Iceland Itinerary for 1 to 14 Days
  • Iceland Itinerary for 7 Days
  • 4 Days Iceland Itinerary
  • Complete Ring Road Trip

Reykjavik travel guides:

  • Best Things to Do in Reykjavik
  • Reykjavik 1-day Itinerary
  • Is Reykjavik Worth Visiting
  • Perlan, Wonders of Iceland
  • Where to Stay in Reykjavik

For more information and destination guides for Iceland, please check our Iceland travel guide . We’ve been to Iceland multiple times and have lots of articles and practical tips for your trip. Take a look!

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Most popular guided tours, day trips and excursions in Iceland in spring, summer and autumn

Photo credits: personal collection, Shutterstock.com, Depositphotos.com, and also Pixabay.com.

You can also read this article in German : Beste Touren, Ausfüge, und Aktivitäten in Island .

Best guided tours and day trips in Iceland

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Tuesday 13th of August 2019

Hello Jurga, Extremely detailed, well-thought-out and useful information and suggestions!! Thank you so much for your time and effort. We (my wife and I) are trying to piece together the flights and campervan rental to visit this September roughly from the 10th to the 16/17th. Anyway, we are flying out to different locations and I would leave at 09:00h and she at 18:45h from KEF. I was wondering if you knew of any guided day tours leaving from (and returning to) KEF so my wife might make the most of those roughly 7-8 hours she would otherwise be sitting around the airport for. Alternatively we could look at paying a supplement for a second driver and she could drive herself somewhere for the day/lunch... but would rather not have to worry about any troubles with the vehicle or getting lost and missing the flight. A guided tour or bus tour with KEF as the starting/finishing point would be less stress. I'm looking online now but figured asking may be quicker than sifting through all the search results. Again many thanks for your wonderful website!! Saludos from Spain.

Wednesday 14th of August 2019

Hi Brad, there isn't much starting/ending from Keflavik, but here are three options for you:

1. Reykjaness Peninsula stopover tour - this is the only one that I found that starts and ends at Keflavik airport. It starts at 10.30AM if I see well and lasts 6 hours, so it could work. It's also a very nice and less known area that most tourists just start to slowly discover now.

2. You could drop your wife off at the Blue Lagoon (book tickets in advance!). There she can also have lunch, spa treatments, etc. if she wants to, and then take a bus to the airport (also book in advance) later that afternoon.

3. You leave her in Reykjavik where she can spend the day in town and maybe visit Perlan (we really enjoyed it) and then take a bus to Keflavik from BSI terminal (where she could also leave her luggage - there are lockers).

Hope this helps!

Thursday 1st of August 2019

All of your articles have been very helpful in planning my trip, thank you! You recommend the "Get your Guide" agency for several of your tours. Do they typically list available times only one month in advance? On some of the tours there seem to be no options from august through next year. Just trying to make sure I don't miss the boat (literally)!

Wednesday 7th of August 2019

Hi Beth, normally they list tours for the upcoming season (just as the companies that operate those tours), so it's very likely that some tours don't run in winter and are therefore not listed (e.g. whale watching tours in the North of Iceland stop after the summer, etc). What tour and for which travel dates are you looking for?

Diana Greer

Sunday 13th of May 2018

Can you book tours you suggested after you arrive or is it best to book in advance?

Yes, of course you can book them last minute, but depending on the season some tours may get fully booked. If you know already what you want to do and on which day, I'd say book upfront. If for whatever reason you decide you don't want to do a tour, you can normally cancel for free up to 24hrs in advance. Another big advantage of booking in advance online vs e.g. at a hotel is that you can read the customer reviews, compare prices and see what exactly is or isn't included, etc. And not have to waste your time on that while on holiday.

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The 7 Best Tour Companies in Iceland

Kirkjufell mountain in Iceland under the Northern Lights

Iceland is an utterly unique country, with glaciers varying in color from white to blue to gray, waterfalls the size of skyscrapers plummeting down sheer rock cliffs, and bumpy lava fields covered in moss in every shade of green you can imagine. And you’ll hear fantastical tales from history and folklore from people who still believe that elves might exist.

It’s one of my favorite countries in the world, one I fell in love with the first time I visited. I’ve been back multiple times since then during various seasons.

But Iceland isn’t always easy to get around, especially in the off-season, when many bus routes shut down because of weather.

One of the ways to get around that problem is by joining an organized tour. You’ll get to experience places that can be inaccessible without a four-wheel drive, and you’ll have an expert local guide to help make the most of your visit.

I’ve put together a list of my favorite tour companies in Iceland, from short city walking tours to multiday adventure hikes. While joining a tour isn’t cheap (you’ll definitely pay more than if you were to explore the country independently ), you’ll also be able to enjoy your trip without any of the planning while simultaneously benefitting from having a local guide on hand to deepen your experience in this incredible place.

Here’s my list of the best tour companies in Iceland:  

1. CityWalk Reykjavik

A free walking tour is always a great way to introduce yourself to a new city, and the guides from CityWalk can give you a good overview of Reykjavik on this two-hour stroll. They run daily tours at 10:30am and 1:30pm, where they show you not only the city’s main attractions, but teach you about Icelandic history as well as share some lesser known and fun facts about Iceland’s capital.

The Reykjavik walking tours have been running since 2014, and the local guides incorporate an element of humor into their tours to make you laugh while you’re exploring. They’ll show you some more overlooked parts of town and also give you some tips for saving money in this expensive country.

Even though it’s technically a free tour, be sure to tip your guide what you think the tour was worth at the end (that’s how they earn a living).

2. Intrepid

Intrepid is my favorite multi-day tour company. I’ve been on tours with them a number of times in a number of places and always enjoy myself. They keep their groups small and work with local guides, and they don’t rush you from sight to sight.

Intrepid offers a number of options in Iceland, including the classic Ring Road trip (which Intrepid calls their Iceland Discovery Tour), where you circumnavigate the island and get to visit some of the best-known sights, from the glacier lagoon at Jökulsárlón on the south coast to the volcanic lake at Mývatn in the north. They even offer tours that also include Greenland too.

What’s also great is that they offer four different tiers of tour “styles” so that you can choose the level and price that suits your needs. “Basix” is the cheapest option and includes the most basic level accommodation with not many extra inclusions, while “Premium” tours are the most expensive and luxurious, as you’ll stay in 4-star accommodations and have more activities and meals included. “Original” and “Comfort” tour styles are somewhere in between the two.

Intrepid’s Iceland tours start at $1,600 for their 5-day Iceland Express Tour and go up to $7,100 for the nine-day Premium Iceland Tour.

3. Arctic Adventures

The award-winning Arctic Adventures is one of the biggest tour companies in Iceland, offering a huge range of one-day and multi-day tours. They also offer self-driving tours, where they provide you with a rental car, pre-booked accommodation, a detailed itinerary, and the option to join some guided day tours along the way. It’s a great option if you want to remove some of the stress and hassle of planning your own trip, but prefer to travel independently.

Its one-day tour options include all the main Icelandic sightseeing activities, like ice caves, snorkeling, glacier tours, and the popular Golden Circle route to Thingvellir National Park, the Geysir hot springs, and Gullfoss Waterfall. They have multi-day trips as well, including trekking tours where you’ll hike across Iceland’s stunning scenery accompanied by an experienced adventure guide.

Arctic Adventures’ full-day trips range in price from around $140 to $280. Their multi-day trips start at $432 USD for a two-day adventure, to an eight-day tour of the Ring Road for $2,434 USD.

4. Icelandic Mountains Guides

For 25 years, Icelandic Mountain Guides has focused on true adventure travel for very small groups, offering one-day and multi-day tours as well as courses on wilderness first aid and mountaineering if you’re interested in gaining some technical outdoor skills.

Its multi-day tours include more unique routes, like a five-day backpacking trek from Núpsstaðaskógur to Skaftafell, or a ten-day expedition across the Highlands starting from the northern town of Akureyri. They even offer ski touring packages. Prices for multi-day tours range from $542 USD for a two-day tour on the southern coast to $4,032 USD for a nine-day glacier expedition.

It also runs one-day tours to ice caves and glacier walk experiences, among others, leaving from Reykjavík, along with similar one-day adventures on the Sólheimajökull glacier on the south coast if you’re in the area and can meet them there. Day tour prices range from $77 USD for an all-day guided lava hike to $256 USD for a snowmobiling adventure on the south coast.

Icelandic Mountain Guides has a genuine conservation focus and holds a twice-yearly event where guides spend time planting trees. All of its day tours are carbon neutral, with a mission to make its multi-day tours carbon neutral in the future.

5. Iceland Horizon

Iceland Horizon offers a huge variety of single-day tours leaving from Reykjavík, Akureyri, and Lake Mývatn. Tour offerings include everything from the classic Golden Circle route to more adventurous snowmobiling and snowshoeing tours.

They’re a good choice for travelers who want to see the main sights and do fun activities but who don’t have access to their own vehicle. They run their small-group tours (always under 19 people) from a mini-bus (which has Wi-Fi), making it a comfortable way to see the sights without having to bother with renting your own car.

Expect to pay around $140 USD per person for a day trip. They also offer tailor-made tours, where you’ll work together with one of their local guides to create an itinerary just for you (pricing greatly varies based on what you want for your personalized tour).

6. Ride with Locals

Ride with Locals is a motorcycle tour company that takes you to the middle of nowhere on trails you wouldn’t access any other way, meaning you’ll see volcanoes, craters, and mountains that very few visitors to Iceland do, making your Iceland experience particularly unique. Its trips last between three days and a week and generally head inland, rather than hugging the coast like most tours.

The motorcycles are KTM 690R and Husqvarna 701 dual sport bikes, and all guides are really experienced with riding through Iceland’s highlands. Some trips use sleeping bags in mountain huts for accommodations (and include all the meals), while others include hotel stays with breakfast.

Costs range between about $4,000 USD for a three-day trip to $7,400 USD for an advanced seven-day expedition. This includes motorbike hire, fuel, accommodation, and some meals. Tours range in difficulty level (noted on the website), but keep in mind that these are only for experienced motorcyclists.

7. Midgard Adventures

Based in Southern Iceland, Midgard Adventures is a family-owned company that offers all sorts of fun and adventurous tours. Off-roading with jeeps, fat bike tours, hiking, snowmobiling, and glacier walks are all on offer here with tours led by family friends and local guides. They have both single-day tours as well as multi-day tours that stretch from 2-7 days (including seasonally-exclusive tours such as mountain biking the highlands in the summer).

Midgard also has its own hotel in Hvolsöllur that you can base yourself from, complete with restaurant, bar, rooftop hot tub, and a sauna (Hvolsöllur is around 90 minutes southeast of Reykjavik).

Prices start around $265 USD for a day tour. While not cheap, Midgard tours are high-quality and tons of fun. You won’t find the same cookie-cutter experiences here.

BONUS: Get Your Guide

If you can’t find the perfect Iceland tour for your trip above, you’ll undoubtedly be able to find it on GetYourGuide . This tour marketplace allows local tour operators to list their offerings, meaning that there’s a huge variety of tours to choose from here, from food tours in Reykjavik to whale watching tours in Húsavík , to multi-day adventures around the country.

Look for the “GetYourGuide Certified” logo for tours that have been vetted by GetYourGuide themselves, though you can also read reviews from previous tour participants to make sure that you sign up for a quality tour. You can even book admission tickets for attractions (like to the countless hot springs that you’ll undoubtedly be visiting) too.

Known as both the Land of Elves and the Land of Fire and Ice, Iceland is a destination like no other. There’s a lot packed into this island , and joining a tour is a great way to maximize your time and experience here.

From challenging multi-day hikes through some of the most scenic landscapes you’ll ever see, to gently exploring a glacier lagoon by boat or visiting puffin colonies, to wandering the streets of the quirky capital of Reykjavik , there’s an Icelandic tour company for you!

Get the In-Depth Budget Guide to Iceland!

Get the In-Depth Budget Guide to Iceland!

Want to plan the perfect trip to Iceland? Check out my comprehensive guide to Iceland written for budget travelers like you! It cuts out the fluff found in other guides and gets straight to the practical information you need. You’ll find suggested itineraries, tips, budgets, ways to save money, on and off the beaten path things to see and do, and my favorite non-touristy restaurants, markets, bars, transportation tips, and much more! Click here to learn more and get your copy today.

Book Your Trip to Iceland: Logistical Tips and Tricks

Book Your Flight Use Skyscanner to find a cheap flight. It’s my favorite search engine because it searches websites and airlines around the globe so you always know no stone is left unturned.

Book Your Accommodation You can book your hostel with Hostelworld as they have the biggest inventory and best deals. If you want to stay somewhere other than a hostel, use Booking.com as they consistently return the cheapest rates for guesthouses and cheap hotels.

Don’t Forget Travel Insurance Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. My favorite companies that offer the best service and value are:

  • Safety Wing (best for everyone)
  • Insure My Trip (for those over 70)
  • Medjet (for additional evacuation coverage)

Looking for the Best Companies to Save Money With? Check out my resource page for the best companies to use when you travel. I list all the ones I use to save money when I’m on the road. They will save you money when you travel too.

Want More Information on Iceland? Be sure to visit our robust destination guide to Iceland for even more planning tips!

Got a comment on this article? Join the conversation on Facebook , Instagram , or Twitter and share your thoughts!

Disclosure: Please note that some of the links above may be affiliate links, and at no additional cost to you, I earn a commission if you make a purchase. I recommend only products and companies I use and the income goes to keeping the site community supported and ad free.

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Iceland Escorted tours and Guided trips

The top guided and escorted tours to Iceland. Choose from 117 escorted and guided tours through Iceland backed by 80 customer reviews. Discovering Iceland via a guided tour is a safe and very informative as the guide often offer a lot of local insight. If you are on a budget you may wish to check our guided group tours to Iceland as they are often more budget-friendly.

108 guided tours in Iceland

Land Of The Northern Lights - 5 Days Tour

  • Starts Reykjavik, Iceland
  • Ends Reykjavik, Iceland

Land of the Northern Lights - 5 days

  • Best price guaranteed
  • No booking fees
  • Tour Type Group Tour
  • Activities Natural landmarks sightseeing & Waterfalls Natural landmarks sightseeing , Waterfalls , Volcanoes & Spas 'data-more-tripid='16027'>+2 more
  • Accommodation Hotel
  • Transport Coach
  • Age Range 18-80 yrs
  • Operated in English
  • Brochure Price: US$ 1,255
  • Special Deal (15%): - US$ 188
  • Total Price from: US$ 1,067
  • Mar 19 10+ seats left
  • Mar 28 10+ seats left
  • View More Jan 1, 2019 Jan 2, 2019 Jan 3, 2019

Iceland Northern Lights & Golden Circle Tour

Iceland Northern Lights & Golden Circle

  • Tour Type Small Group Tour
  • Activities Northern lights tours & Waterfalls Northern lights tours , Waterfalls , Glaciers & Hot springs 'data-more-tripid='4970'>+2 more
  • Accommodation Hotel & Guest House
  • Transport Private Vehicle
  • Age Range 12-95 yrs
  • Brochure Price: US$ 1,799
  • Special Deal (20%): - US$ 360
  • Total Price from: US$ 1,439
  • Mar 14 Only 1 seat left
  • Mar 28 Only 1 seat left

Northern Lights Escape Tour

Northern Lights Escape

  • Activities Northern lights tours & Geysers Northern lights tours , Geysers , Waterfalls & National parks 'data-more-tripid='3061'>+2 more
  • Transport Minibus
  • Age Range 15-99 yrs
  • Brochure Price: US$ 2,440
  • Special Deal (15%): - US$ 366
  • Total Price from: US$ 2,074
  • Mar 22 Only 1 seat left
  • Oct 16 Only 10 seats left

Iceland Discovery Tour

Iceland Discovery

  • Activities Adventure & Waterfalls Adventure , Waterfalls , National parks & Glaciers 'data-more-tripid='3060'>+2 more
  • Accommodation Guest House & Hotel
  • Transport Boat & Minibus
  • Brochure Price: US$ 3,815
  • Special Deal (15%): - US$ 572
  • Total Price from: US$ 3,243
  • Apr 15 Only 6 seats left
  • Apr 19 Only 8 seats left

Best Of Iceland Tour

Best of Iceland

  • Activities Natural landmarks sightseeing & Waterfalls Natural landmarks sightseeing , Waterfalls & Beach 'data-more-tripid='4964'>+1 more
  • Transport Bus, Minibus, Private Vehicle & Boat
  • Brochure Price: US$ 2,949
  • Special Deal (20%): - US$ 590
  • Total Price from: US$ 2,359
  • Apr 11 Only 6 seats left
  • Apr 14 Only 5 seats left

Iceland Express Tour

Iceland Express

  • Activities Natural landmarks sightseeing & National parks Natural landmarks sightseeing , National parks & Bird watching 'data-more-tripid='5522'>+1 more
  • Brochure Price: US$ 1,480
  • Special Deal (15%): - US$ 222
  • Total Price from: US$ 1,258
  • May 16 Only 5 seats left
  • May 23 10+ seats left

Iceland Northern Lights Tour

Iceland Northern Lights

  • Activities Northern lights tours & Winter adventure Northern lights tours , Winter adventure & Honeymoon 'data-more-tripid='7636'>+1 more
  • Transport Minibus & Bus
  • Age Range 16-95 yrs
  • Brochure Price: US$ 2,775
  • Special Deal (15%): - US$ 421
  • Total Price from: US$ 2,354
  • Dec 11 Only 8 seats left
  • Feb 12 Only 8 seats left

Iceland Circle - 8 Days Tour

Iceland Circle - 8 Days

  • Activities Natural landmarks sightseeing & Glaciers Natural landmarks sightseeing , Glaciers & Volcanoes 'data-more-tripid='15982'>+1 more
  • Transport Coach & Boat
  • Brochure Price: US$ 2,945
  • Special Deal (15%): - US$ 442
  • Total Price from: US$ 2,503
  • Mar 15 10+ seats left
  • Mar 29 10+ seats left

Iceland Adventurer 6D/5N Tour

Iceland Adventurer 6D/5N

  • Activities Natural landmarks sightseeing & Glaciers Natural landmarks sightseeing , Glaciers , Geysers , Whale watching & Waterfalls 'data-more-tripid='13686'>+3 more
  • Age Range 18-99 yrs
  • Mar 09 10+ seats left
  • Mar 10 10+ seats left

Iceland Explorer Tour

Iceland Explorer

  • Activities Natural landmarks sightseeing & Cultural, religious and historic sites Natural landmarks sightseeing , Cultural, religious and historic sites , Volcanoes , Waterfalls & Glaciers 'data-more-tripid='19210'>+3 more
  • Transport Bus
  • Brochure Price: US$ 5,100
  • Special Deal (10%): - US$ 511
  • Total Price from: US$ 4,589
  • Apr 14 Only 6 seats left
  • May 05 Only 8 seats left

Iceland Including The Blue Lagoon Tour

Iceland including the Blue Lagoon

  • Activities Geysers & Hot springs Geysers , Hot springs & National parks 'data-more-tripid='27596'>+1 more
  • Age Range 5-99 yrs
  • Brochure Price: US$ 3,853
  • Special Deal (15%): - US$ 578
  • Total Price from: US$ 3,275
  • May 12 10+ seats left
  • May 26 10+ seats left

Best Of Iceland: Golden Circle & Snæfellsnes Peninsula Tour

Best of Iceland: Golden Circle & Snæfellsnes Peninsula

  • Activities Explorer
  • Transport Bus, Minibus, Boat & Private Vehicle
  • Apr 20 Only 6 seats left
  • Apr 27 Only 9 seats left

Iceland Fire And Ice Tour

Iceland Fire and Ice

  • Activities Natural landmarks sightseeing & Volcanoes Natural landmarks sightseeing , Volcanoes , Geysers & Glaciers 'data-more-tripid='23071'>+2 more
  • Accommodation Hotel & Hostel
  • Age Range 18-35 yrs
  • Brochure Price: US$ 2,199
  • Special Deal (20%): - US$ 440
  • Total Price from: US$ 1,759
  • Apr 08 Only 9 seats left
  • May 06 10+ seats left

Northern Lights Exploration - 8 Days Tour

Northern Lights Exploration - 8 days

  • Activities Northern lights tours & Natural landmarks sightseeing Northern lights tours , Natural landmarks sightseeing , Volcanoes & Waterfalls 'data-more-tripid='16042'>+2 more
  • Brochure Price: US$ 2,735
  • Special Deal (15%): - US$ 410
  • Total Price from: US$ 2,325
  • Mar 22 10+ seats left

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Guided Tours In Iceland

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Your flights are booked, you’ve researched the best restaurants and you’ve packed your thermal underwear. Now it’s time to find your guided Iceland tour!

Check out our best Iceland guided tours for 2023 and envision your perfect adventure today!

6 Days Around Iceland Adventure

6 Days Around Iceland Adventure

Into the Glacier Experience

"Into the Glacier" Experience

Snorkeling In Silfra Fissure

Snorkeling In Silfra Fissure

 3 Day South Coast & Golden Circle Tour

3 Day South Coast & Golden Circle Tour

Skaftafell Blue Ice Cave & Glacier Hike Tour

Skaftafell Blue Ice Cave & Glacier Hike Tour

2-Day Tour to Snæfellsnes Peninsula & Borgarfjörður Fjord

2-Day Tour to Snæfellsnes Peninsula & Borgarfjörður Fjord

2 Day South Coast, Ice Cave, Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon Tour

2 Day South Coast, Ice Cave, Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon Tour

Glacier Explorer - Moderate Glacier Hike in Skaftafell

Glacier Explorer - Moderate Glacier Hike in Skaftafell

What is a guided iceland tour.

Simply put, a guided Iceland tour allows you to explore the country with the help of a dedicated expert guide. Guided tours provide a vacation without the hassle and stress of planning, so you can save the time and energy you would normally put into planning your own itinerary.

Our guided tours from Reykjavik and other locations sort out every detail of your trip in advance  —  all that’s left to do is relax and enjoy your holiday!

Why Book a Guided Tour of Iceland?

Booking a guided tour of Iceland is one the easiest and most efficient ways to see the land of fire and ice. Moreover, these types of trips provide the best value possible.  

Iceland is an expansive country with  spectacular natural attractions  around every corner, so many visitors struggle to fit everything in. Guided tours allow travelers with limited time to pack in as much as possible and ensure they have the greatest travel experiences.

Enjoy Stress-Free Travel

best guided tours iceland

There are many benefits to booking a guided tour of Iceland, but one of the biggest advantages is that it allows visitors to enjoy a stress-free holiday, taking the hassle out of renting a car, planning an itinerary and even finding accommodation.

Once you’ve booked your tour, our team will pick you up from your hotel, from notable spots in  Reykjavik , or any other central location, and shuttle you to the tour’s starting point.

Take Advantage of Expert Knowledge

best guided tours iceland

Our Arctic Adventures tour guides are experts in their trade. They’ve acquired their skills and knowledge through years of training and working in Iceland and abroad.

Whether you’ve booked  a snorkelling day tour  or a  multi-day adventure tour , our expert guides will ensure you have the best experience possible and return with treasured memories and a newfound appreciation for Iceland’s natural wonders.

Shared Experiences

best guided tours iceland

For solo travelers or small groups touring around Iceland, guided tours are a great option for those who want to combine sightseeing with meeting new people.

Our guided tours allow you to meet like-minded adventurers from all over the world who’ve come to explore this unique northern landscape.

What Are the Best Guided Tours in Iceland?

Now that you’ve booked your flights to Reykjavík and decided to do a guided tour, you’re probably wondering which tour you should book. 

Lucky for you, Arctic Adventures has a huge variety of guided tours on offer. We cater for thrill-seekers, nature enthusiasts, climbers and everyone in between.

Find a snapshot of our Iceland guided tour packages below.

Iceland’s Golden Circle Guided Tours

best guided tours iceland

The Golden Circle is a driving route that totals more than 300 km (186 mi) and is home to some of the country’s most well-known tourist attractions, including   Thingvellir National Park  and   Gullfoss Waterfall , as well as   The Great Geysir .

Arctic Adventures offers a range of  tours to the Golden Circle  with different packages to suit every traveler’s needs. On the tour, customers will be picked up in Reykjavik before starting the awe-inspiring journey along the Golden Circle. Bring your best camera!

Iceland’s Ring Road Guided Tours

best guided tours iceland

If you want to see all that Iceland has to offer, embark on an epic road trip around this northern island. The famous Ring Road route packs in tons of natural wonders including glaciers, hot springs, waterfalls, volcanoes, geysers and black sand beaches.

Check out our award-winning  6 Days Around Iceland Adventure  and get ready for your next trip! If you want to extend your stay, see our exciting  7 Day Complete Iceland Adventure  or the unforgettable  8 Day Ring Road Tour .

Guided Landmannalaugar Tours

best guided tours iceland

Located in the Central Highlands, Landmannalaugar attracts hikers and photographers from all over the world. This unique geothermal region is home to caramel-colored peaks, hot springs, lava fields and clear blue lakes.

Hikers can easily combine their love for the outdoors with an exciting   guided tour of Landmannalaugar  and its surrounding landscapes. On the tour, you’ll enjoy stunning walks along remote country trails, spectacular views of lush green terrain and multi-colored mountain ranges.

After the trek, hikers can take a dip in a nearby natural hot spring, the perfect way to end the day with much-needed rest and relaxation!

Guided Northern Lights Tours in Iceland

best guided tours iceland

The Northern Lights  are the most elusive of natural wonders. Weather conditions have to be just right for the Arctic’s most beautiful light show to take place.  

Usually, the best time to see the Northern Lights is between September and April as these are the darkest months and give visitors the best chance of seeing the lights.  

Our   Northern Lights Tours  are the perfect option for anyone who’s on a short trip or traveling without a car. Our   most popular Northern Lights Explorer Tour leaves Reykjavík at 21:30 before driving off the beaten track to the most exclusive aurora viewing spots in Iceland.  

Once our driver has parked, wrap yourself up in a blanket and enjoy hot chocolate or Iceland’s burning wine, Brennivín!

We’ve answered some of the most popular questions about Iceland guided tours. Here you’ll find everything you need — from the best tours to join to the best time to go.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the best tours in iceland.

It depends on what you’re looking for. If you want to see the best of Iceland in just one day, go for a tour of the Golden Circle. We offer   Golden Circle tours   that include various activities such as snowmobiling, snorkeling or hunting the Northern Lights.

However, if you have more time and want to see all that this little island in the North Atlantic has to offer, go for guided tours around Iceland. Check out our best-rated   6 Days Around Iceland Adventure   and book the trip of a lifetime!

On the other hand, if you’re interested in certain activities like ice caving, hiking, rafting, snorkeling or horse riding, explore our   most popular activity tours in Iceland .

best guided tours iceland

Is it better to book tours in Iceland?

While exploring Iceland on your own is a great experience, booking a guided tour is a safer option. Iceland’s weather is highly unpredictable and might drastically change driving conditions. Strong winds and icy roads are not uncommon, even in summer.

If you don’t feel confident driving alone, sign up for a guided tour with an expert guide who will take you to all the places you want to visit. On a guided tour, you don’t need to do prep work, worry about visiting hours of the stops or sort out your transportation. All you have to do is show up!

Also keep in mind that some activities like ice caving and snowmobiling are not available without a guide.

best guided tours iceland

How many days do you need in Iceland?

Even one day in Iceland can be an unforgettable experience. However, to truly appreciate the island’s treasures, you’ll need at least 3 days. Our   3 day guided tours of Iceland   will not only take you to the main highlights but also show you some hidden gems that you wouldn’t otherwise know about.

If you’re coming for 4 days, check out our   4 day guided tours   of Iceland that pack in top Icelandic experiences.

If you’re into slow travel and don’t want to rush throughout your trip, go for a 6, 7 or 8-day journey. To find out more, browse all our   multi-day tours .

Can you do Iceland in 5 days?

Absolutely you can see the major highlights of Iceland in 5 days. Check out our selection of  5 Day tours in Iceland  to find your dream trip!

best guided tours iceland

Can you drive around Iceland in 5 days?

Yes, it’s possible to drive around Iceland and do the whole Ring Road in 5 days. However, that doesn’t necessarily mean it’s recommended. The total length of the Ring Road is 1,332 km (828 mi). This means that if you want to do the Ring Road in 5 days, you’ll spend most of your time on the road and miss out on many natural wonders.

Is Iceland expensive to visit?

Although Iceland is more affordable than Norway or Switzerland, it’s still an expensive country. However, this doesn’t mean that a trip to Iceland has to burn a hole in your pocket. You’ll certainly be able to find budget eateries and accommodation.

If you seek the best value for money, guided tours are your best bet.

What’s the best season to visit Iceland?

Iceland is a fantastic destination year-round. The best time to visit the country really depends on what you’re looking for.

In summer, Iceland becomes the land of the Midnight Sun. This means that you can expect long days that give you plenty of time to explore.

If you want to save money and escape the biggest tourist crowds, travel during shoulder seasons (September to November and April to Mid-June). However, this comes at the price of shorter days and colder weather.

Winter is the best time for activities like glacier hiking, ice caving and hunting the Northern Lights. The aurora season runs from September to April.

best guided tours iceland

How long does it take to drive around Iceland?

It takes about 6 days to drive around Iceland and complete the famous Ring Road. In other words, 6 days allow you to see all the major highlights without rushing your travels.

Where is the Blue Lagoon?

The Blue Lagoon   is located on the Reykjanes Peninsula in southwest Iceland, close to Keflavik International Airport. This means you can visit the famous Blue Lagoon directly before or after catching your flight.

If you have an early flight to Iceland, stop at the Blue Lagoon on your way to Reykjavik. And if you have a late flight, book a ticket to the spa on your way to the airport.

We offer   Airport to Blue Lagoon Transfer   as well as   Reykjavik to Blue Lagoon Transfer .

best guided tours iceland

How much does the Blue Lagoon cost in USD?

You can choose between different packages, but prices start at 56 USD.

If you want to combine a visit to the Blue Lagoon with other activities like lava caving or hunting the Northern Lights, check out our   Blue Lagoon Tours .

Do you need to pre-book the Blue Lagoon?

Yes, booking ahead is highly recommended as the Blue Lagoon is extremely popular and slots tend to sell out days in advance.

Can you use euros in Iceland?

The official currency of Iceland is Icelandic króna. However, you can pay for almost all services by card. This means that you can usually get by without cash. Most places that deal with tourists won’t make a fuss if you try to pay with euros or dollars.

Still unsure about booking a guided tour?   Check out our   Self Guided Iceland Tours   to experience the best of both worlds!

Want to create your own custom trip?   Discover our   private guided tours   of Iceland, custom designed just for you.

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Learn how to easily plan your dream trip to Iceland with helpful guides and tips!

People riding horses in Iceland in an article about the best tours in Iceland

20 Best Tours In Iceland You Shouldn’t Miss

February 16, 2022 //  by  Iceland Trippers //   Leave a Comment

Looking for the best tours in Iceland? You have come to the right place!

Iceland is an amazing country full of waterfalls , rugged landscapes, and some breathtaking sights. In fact, there is so much to do in Iceland it can be overwhelming deciding what are the best Iceland day tours and the best Iceland guided tours.

We will go through the best tours in Iceland one by one so you can get to see the best of Iceland’s incredible natural wonders and make the most out of your trip.

Whether you are looking for a once-in-a-lifetime experience such as whale watching, exploring an ice cave, seeing the spectacular Northern Lights, soaking in the Blue Lagoon , or you just want to enjoy the Icelandic scenery with a tour of The Golden Circle , we have covered them all. Don’t forget to check out our list of the best Ice caves in Iceland!

These Iceland guided tours will make your Icelandic experience even more unforgettable.

Whether you go in the winter or the summer , there is always something to see, and to make the best of your Iceland adventure make sure you are prepared and dress accordingly for the weather and terrain.

Get a FREE printable “Hidden Gems In Iceland” E-book by joining our private  Iceland Facebook Group  and sharing your photos and asking for tips and tricks.

Skogafoss waterfall in lush surroundings is one of the best  Iceland tour stops

Table of Contents

Best Day Tours In Iceland Worth The Cost

Reykjavik: golden circle full-day tour with kerid crater (8 hours).

No visit to Iceland would be complete without a tour of the delights of the Golden Circle. The Golden Circle is a tourist route in southern Iceland. It covers approximately 300 km and contains some of the most loved and well-visited tourist attractions.

On this Reykjavik: Golden Circle Full-Day Tour with Kerid Crater you get to see the best of southwest Iceland with someone else taking the driving strain.

Starting in Reykjavik, this tour takes in the spectacular Geysir area, the cascading Gullfoss Waterfall, Þingvellir National Park, and the active hot spring of Strokkur. And you will of course also see the volcanic crater at Lake Kerid.

This is a packed itinerary that lets you see a unique selection of what Iceland has to offer and of course, you get to enjoy and marvel at the passing scenery. If you still aren’t sure, we have a blog post that breaks down some of the Best Golden Circle Tours in Iceland!

Book Here: Reykjavik: Golden Circle Full-Day Tour with Kerid Crater

Here are a few more Golden Circle tours for you to also have a look at. They are some of the best Iceland tours, all with a slightly different itinerary.

From Reykjavik: Golden Circle and Northern Lights Combo

From Reykjavik: Golden Circle Full Day Tour

Reykjavik: Golden Circle Tour with Blue Lagoon Visit & Entry

From Reykjavik: Golden Circle and Northern Lights

Gushing Gullfoss waterfall on a snowy winter day.

From Reykjavik: Golden Circle and Secret Lagoon Day Trip (9.5 hours)

On this Reykjavik: Golden Circle and Secret Lagoon Day Trip you will tour the iconic Golden Circle before relaxing at Gamla Laugin, as it is known locally, the oldest swimming pool in Iceland. Located in Fludir, this beautiful hot spring is also known as the Secret Lagoon.

Fully renovated, it has an indoor changing area, lockers, showers, and food and drink are available to buy. Don’t forget to bring your swimwear and a towel and a water bottle as you will need to stay hydrated at the springs.

Along with the soak, you can walk along the springs and see a geyser.

Book Now: From Reykjavik: Golden Circle and Secret Lagoon Day Trip

Woman soaking in the Secret Lagoon in Iceland.

Raufarhólshellir Lava Tunnel: Underground Expedition  (1 hour)

Only in Iceland can you explore an underground lava tunnel. This Lava Tunnel: Underground Expedition meets at Raufarhólshellir (30-minute drive from the capital), and you get to explore the longest and best-known lava tunnels in Iceland.

The tunnel is a work of nature, and you will see the incredible lava formations that are rarely seen outside of Iceland. The terrain can be rough and crampons are provided in winter. The surface is often uneven, and you will walk up and down steep stairs, so be aware.

You will experience the ever-changing colors, landscape, and geological features while getting all the history and information you need from the experienced guide.

This is one of the more unique Iceland tours and 100% worth it.

Book Now: Raufarhólshellir Lava Tunnel: Underground Expedition 

The amazing purple and red colors of the lava tunnel in Iceland.

From Reykjavik: Snæfellsnes Peninsula Full-Day Tour (11 hours)

One of the top Iceland tours if you want to see the spectacular volcanic craters of Kirkjufell and Ljósufjöll, this Snæfellsnes Peninsula Full-Day Tour is packed full of beautiful scenery.

You will also get to visit the charming fishing villages of Grundarfjordur, Arnarstapi, and Hellnar as well as the black beaches of Djúpalónssandur. This is one of the best Iceland day tours that pack in a lot.

Departing from Reykjavik, this leisurely tour also takes in the majestic glacier of Snæfellsjökull. You will see volcanic peaks, golden and black beaches, sparkling fjords, fishing villages, and an amazing glacier. It’s a one-day Iceland experience that is well worth the money. 

Book Now: Snæfellsnes Peninsula Full-Day Tour

Snaefellsnes Peninsula at sunrise with a waterfall in the foreground and Kirkjufell in the background.

Icelandic Horse Riding Tour in Lava Fields (2 hours)

Horse riding through Lava fields? Only in Iceland!

With an optional pick-up in Reykjavik, this Icelandic Horse Riding Tour in Lava Fields is one of those only in Iceland experiences. From the Íshestar Stables in Hafnarfjörður, you will experience a 1.2- to 2-hour horseback journey through lava fields and along beautiful green hillsides.

The horses are friendly and the riding paths excellent so you don’t need to be an experienced horse rider to enjoy this experience. The stables are a ten-minute drive from Reykjavík and are set in beautiful surroundings. The horses are well looked after and the staff takes pride in their job.

All equipment needed will be provided and there are lockers on site. There really is nothing like seeing incredible rock formations in the lava from the saddle of a horse. This is one of the best horseback riding tours in Iceland!

Since it is only two hours, this is one of the best Iceland day tours since you will have time to schedule more activities for the same day.

Book Now: Icelandic Horse Riding Tour in Lava Fields

Horse riding is one of the best tours in iceland

Landmannalaugar 4-Hour Hiking Experience (5-14 hours)

One of the best ways to explore Iceland is on foot and this is one of the best Iceland-guided tours to do that. This Landmannalaugar 4-Hour Hiking Experience is a must for anyone who loves hiking.

This Iceland day tour allows you to enjoy the Southern Highland of Fjallabak, taking in the wonders of Iceland’s Landmannalaugar and Hekla Volcano area. Soothing hot springs, extraordinary colored mountain peaks, clear blue lakes, and an active volcano are included on this unique tour. You get to take in some of Iceland’s most unique destinations, all with the expert support of your guide.

The 4-hour hike starts off with lunch and you walk through lava fields to the Brennisteinsalda mountain, known for its colorful peak and steaming vents. You then start the descent through the Grænagil canyon, which is like nothing you have ever seen. 

Depending on the time and conditions you can also climb a 60,000-year-old volcano and bathe in hot natural pools.

Book Now: Landmannalaugar 4-Hour Hiking Experience

The colorful mountains on Brennisteinsalda mountain.

Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon Full-Day Tour from Reykjavik (14 hours)

No trip to Iceland would be complete without a visit to Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon and this Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon Full-Day Tour from Reykjavik is a great way to see it.

This tour is one of the best Iceland tours if you want to explore the dramatic landscape of the south of Iceland. You will be picked up from your hotel in Reykjavik then you will travel up the southern coast to the Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon .

The lagoon is an incredible sight; it’s the largest and deepest glacier lagoon in Iceland with some of the icebergs speckled blue and black, and thousands of years old.

During the summer season, you can go on a boat trip to get closer to the lagoon and surrounding area. You will also get to visit the nearby Diamond Beach, which is an incredible sight.

You then make the return trip to Reykjavik with a stop off at the beautiful Seljalandsfos waterfall, which you can walk behind, weather permitting, and there is an additional stop in Iceland’s southernmost village at Vik for dinner.

Book Now: Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon Full-Day Tour from Reykjavik

A group of people stand on the shores of the Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon at sunset.

Reykjavik: Whale Watching Excursion (2-3 hours)

With so much to see in Iceland, we can often forget the incredible animal life that Iceland has to offer.

If you want to experience one of the best whale-watching tours in Iceland , we highly recommend this Whale Watching Excursion out of Reykjavik.

Your tour starts with a boat trip from Reykjavik harbor where you will start to see the rich marine life that Iceland’s waters have to offer.  From minke and humpback whales , harbor porpoises, and whale-beaked dolphins, there is a lot to see.

The peak whale watching season is April to October but you never know what you might catch a glimpse of.

The tour lasts between 2-3.5 hours depending on the time of year. An added bonus of this tour is the Icelandic scenery which looks so majestic from the water.

Book Now: Reykjavik: Whale Watching Excursion

Whale breaching during one of the best tours in Iceland.

Snorkeling in Silfra Fissure – Small Group Adventure (2-4 hours )

Looking for a unique and exotic underwater experience in the waters of Iceland’s Thingvellir Lake? This top-rated dive site has great visibility and is one of the great Iceland guided tours. Snorkeling in Silfra Fissure is an incredible experience.

This tour takes you from Reykjavik to the heart of Thingvellir National Park , a UNESCO-listed World Heritage Site. You can enjoy the stunning scenery on the way before taking an hour’s snorkeling experience with your guide.

You will swim over the divide between the American and European continental plates where the underwater views are breathtaking. It is one of the best places to see on your Iceland itinerary!

All required equipment will be provided, helping to make this one of the best snorkeling tours in Iceland .

Book Now Snorkelling in Silfra Fissure – Small Group Adventure

Underwater view of a snorkeler in the Silfra fissure.

South Iceland: Vatnajökull Glacier Blue Ice Cave Tour (3 hours)

One of the best tours in Iceland has to be a Glacier Blue Ice Cave Tour. And this South Iceland: Vatnajökull Glacier Blue Ice Cave Tour is a great one. The ice caves are formed by the water in the summer that runs down from the glacier forming an extraordinary natural phenomenon.

The position, structure, and condition of these caves changes yearly and your guide will make sure you get to explore the best magical blue ice cave on your tour.  

This tour meets at the cafe at Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon and then the caves are approximately a 20 to 30-minute drive to where you get to enjoy the scenery of the Vatnajökull National Park .

The walk to the ice caves is then approximately 5 -15 minutes, and you will get between one and one-and-a-half hours to explore inside.

This is one of the most unique and breathtaking ice cave tours in Iceland. With some of the best tour guides in Iceland, you will feel safe and well-informed.

Book Now Vatnajökull Glacier Blue Ice Cave Tour

Inside an ice cave in Iceland during winter.

Iceland: Northern Lights Bus Tour from Reykjavik (4 hours)

If you are visiting Iceland during the winter months then you want to see the Northern Lights . That is why most people travel to Iceland during the winter. Obviously seeing the Northern lights is never guaranteed but if you do it will be a lasting memory.

If you are thinking of the best Iceland tours to take, the Iceland: Northern Lights Bus Tour from Reykjavik is a good option.

You will spend an evening searching for the Northern Lights with an experienced guide. If you are lucky, you will catch this spectacular natural phenomenon.

This tour also includes a ticket to the Aurora Museum in Reykjavik. If you are looking for more, we have the 10 Best Northern Lights Tours In Iceland!

Book Now: Iceland: Northern Lights Bus Tour from Reykjavik

Northern Lights dance across the night sky in Iceland.

Reykjavik: Panoramic Helicopter Flight with Summit Landing (45 minutes)

If you want the chance to see Reykjavik and the surrounding area from the sky, consider booking the epic Reykjavik: Panoramic Helicopter Flight with Summit Landing tour.

This is definitely not the cheapest Iceland tour, considering it is less than an hour, but it is worth it for the once-in-a-lifetime views! Make sure your camera batteries are charged because you will not want to miss out on photos you can get nowhere else.

You will meet at the Reykjavik Domestic Airport before heading up in a helicopter. The city of Reykjavik will be laid out before you when you land on a mountain summit.

Book Now: Reykjavik: Panoramic Helicopter Flight with Summit Landing

Aerial view of Reykjavik at golden hour, during one of the best tours in Iceland.

Vik: Mýrdalsjökull Snowmobile Adventure (2 hours)

If you are looking for one of the most thrilling Iceland tours, look no further than the Vik: Mýrdalsjökull Snowmobile Adventure ! This fun tour leaves from Vik on the South Coast and leads you up the Mýrdalsjökull Glacier.

All equipment is included, and you get a safety briefing before hopping on the snowmobiles, so you will be prepared to ride. At the top of the glacier, you will get the chance to stop and admire the amazing views!

All drivers must be at least 17 and have a valid driver’s license. This is one of the best glacier tours in Iceland because you get to experience it in a unique way.

Book Now: Vik: Mýrdalsjökull Snowmobile Adventure

A couple of snowmobiles riding across the snow.

Reykjavik: Icelandic Food Tour (3 hours)

Icelandic cuisine is interesting, to say the least! If you are brave enough to try some local delicacies, then book the Reykjavik: Icelandic Food Tour .

This walking tour will lead you through Reykjavik to four to six stops, including the city’s oldest restaurant , a food market, and a famous hot dog stand. You will get to try lamb soup, hot dogs, fermented shark, minke whale, rye bread ice cream, and more.

As you walk, your guide will teach you about Icelandic food and culture. They say eating local is a great way to learn about a country, and this tour proves that!

Bring your appetite as you enjoy one of the best guided tours of Iceland!

Book Now: Reykjavik: Icelandic Food Tour

A bowl of lamp soup on a restaurant table.

Reykjavík: Fagradalsfjall Volcano Hike and Blue Lagoon (10 hours)

An epic hike to the top of a volcano before unwinding in the famous Blue Lagoon? Yes, please!

Iceland is the land of fire and ice, so why not take time to appreciate some of the heat the island has to offer? The Reykjavík: Fagradalsfjall Volcano Hike and Blue Lagoon tour is perfect for anyone looking for some adventure.

You will start your journey by hiking the Fagradalsfjall volcano on the Reykanes Peninsula. While the volcano is active and erupted in 2021, it is currently dormant. Even so, you will see fresh lava flows and possibly steam rising.

After a few hours of hiking this natural wonder, you will get the chance to soak in the Blue Lagoon. Your aching muscles will thank you!

This is one of the best Iceland tours from Reykjavik since both attractions are close to the capital.

Book Now: Reykjavík: Fagradalsfjall Volcano Hike and Blue Lagoon

The beautiful water of the Blue Lagoon with people soaking.

Best Multi-Day Tours Of Iceland

If you really want to make the best of Iceland then it may be that you want to embark on a multi-day tour. They are some of the best tours in Iceland and allow you to sit back while someone else does all the work. If you are not someone who likes planning, organizing and researching then leaving it all up to someone else might be the perfect option for you.

You will get to see some of the most incredible sights with the knowledge that an experienced guide is leading you.

You can get Iceland tours anywhere from 2 to 10 days, the most popular seeming to be 5 days or 3 days . If you are wanting one of the best excursions in Iceland, a multi-day tour might be for you.

These multi-day tours will allow you to combine a more leisurely trip with some extreme sightseeing, giving you the best of both worlds.

Choosing a tour depends on your budget , the time available to you, and the areas you want to see. We have listed some of the best and highly rated Iceland guided tours below. There is a tour for everyone so we are sure you will find one perfect for you. Whichever tour you decide, we know you will have the most incredible time, and we can’t wait to hear all about it.

Looking down at the town of Vik with yellow flowers in the foreground and the church and ocean in the distance.

Iceland: 2 Day Trip Along South Coast

If you want to book one of the best South Coast Iceland tours, check out Iceland: 2 Day Trip Along South Coast tour. This is one of the most popular areas in Iceland since there are so many waterfalls, glacier lagoons, and more.

This tour starts and ends in Reykjavik , making it super convenient. It is one of the best guided tours in Iceland since it is run by people who make the experience really enjoyable.

Notable places you visit include :  Gljufrabui, Seljalandsfoss, Skógafoss , and Kvernufoss waterfalls, Sólheimajökull glacier, Reynisfjara Beach, Vik, Skaftafell National Park, Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon, and Breiðamerkurjökull Glacier. Don’t forget to check out our tips for Solheimajokull Glacier!

Book Now: Iceland: 2 Day Trip Along South Coast

Seljalandsfoss falling into a pool surrounded by snow.

Iceland: 3-Day Golden Circle, South Coast, & Glacier Tour

If you want a little longer of a tour, check out Iceland: 3-Day Golden Circle, South Coast, & Glacier Tour . Since it spans three days, you will not feel rushed as you traverse this beautiful country.

This tour hits some of the highlights of the Golden Circle and will leave you mesmerized. This tour is out of Reykjavik and includes a stay at a cute guesthouse.

Notable places you visit include: Thingvellir National Park, Seljalandsfoss, Skógafoss, and Gullfoss waterfalls, Srokkur Geysir, Kerid, Reynisfjara Beach, Vik, Skaftafell National Park, Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon, and Breiðamerkurjökull Glacier

Book Now: Iceland: 3-Day Golden Circle, South Coast, & Glacier Tour

Person overlooking the blue water and colorful dirt of Kerid Crater during their tour in Iceland.

Reykjavik: 4-Day South Coast, Golden Circle, and Snæfellsnes

If you want to see more than just the South Coast, book the Reykjavik: 4-Day South Coast, Golden Circle, and Snæfellsnes tour.

This tour includes highlights from the Golden Circle and South Coast while adding a day to explore the Snæfellsnes Peninsula . Here you will see more iconic mountains, waterfalls, lava fields, and more.

Notable places you visit include:  Thingvellir National Park, Gullfoss Waterfall, Hraðastaðir farm, Reynisfjara Beach, Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon, Vatnajökull National Park, Kirkjufell, and Kirkjufellfoss Waterfall

Book Now: Reykjavik: 4-Day South Coast, Golden Circle, and Snæfellsnes

Man sitting on a block of ice at Iceland's glacier lagoon at sunset.

Iceland 6-Day Ring Road Adventure

The Ring Road is one of the best drives in Iceland with many amazing stops to see. The Iceland 6-Day Ring Road Adventure includes great guides and accommodation each night so you do not have to worry about a thing.

This is one of the best Ring Road tours in Iceland because it hits a lot of sights that other tours miss.

Notable places you visit include: Thingvellir National Park, Geysir, Gullfoss Waterfall, Vik, Skaftafell, Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon, the East Fjords, Dettifoss Waterfall, Myvatn, and so much more

Book Now: Iceland 6-Day Ring Road Adventure

Powerful Dettifoss Waterfall crashing down to send up mist and a rainbow.

Reykjavik: Winter 8-Day Small Group Circle of Iceland Tour

If you have a lot of time in Iceland and a good budget, the Reykjavik: Winter 8-Day Small Group Circle of Iceland To ur might be for you!

This is one of the best winter tours in Iceland, allowing you to see the country when it is at its most epic and magical. Visiting during this season lets you experience the Northern Lights, ice caves, and snow-covered landscapes.

Notable places you visit include: Gullfoss, Skogafoss, and Seljalandsfoss waterfalls, Geysir, and Thingvellir National Park, Skaftafell National Park, Jökulsárlon Glacier Lagoon, Lake Lagarfljót, Lake Mývatn, Námaskarð Pass, Snæfellsnes Peninsula, Vatnshellir Lava Cave, and so much more

Book Now: Reykjavik: Winter 8-Day Small Group Circle of Iceland Tour

Svartifoss Waterfall in Skaftafell National Park falling among basalt columns with everything covered in ice and snow.

Best Time Of Year For Taking Tours In Iceland

The best time to take tours in Iceland is wholly up to you! It all depends on what you want to see and the weather you want to experience. Figure out exactly what kind of Iceland tours you want to take, then chose the season that best matches up.

Come in summer for the midnight sun, blooming lupines, and the best weather. If Northern Lights, glacier hiking, or ice caves are on your bucket list, plan for winter .

Fall and spring are great shoulder seasons when there are fewer tourists, you can book tours more easily, and prices are more reasonable.

No matter when you book tours in Iceland, you will be in for an amazing time!

Field of purple lupine flowers before a river and mountains in the background.

When To Choose A Private Tour In Iceland

Private tours in Iceland can be more expensive than large group tours, but they have their advantages. Some pluses of private tours are that they are more flexible, more easily tailored to your needs, allow more time with the guide, and are a more personal experience.

When you book a private tour, it will be just you and your friends and family. You do not have to bother with strangers who might hold things up or make things more uncomfortable.

While group tours are priced per person, private tours in Iceland are priced per group. If it is just you and someone else, splitting a $1000 fare may be undoable. However, if you split the fare between 4-5 people, suddenly a private tour in Iceland just became more affordable!

Private tours in Iceland are especially helpful if you are a photographer, content creator, someone with children, or just want a personalized and in-depth tour of Iceland with an experienced, local guide. These tours are worth it when you book with the best Iceland tour companies.

Some of Our Favorite Private Tours in Iceland:

Private Glacier Lagoon: Jökulsárlón

From Reykjavik: South Coast Private Tour

From Reykjavik: Golden Circle 8-Hour Private Tour

Reykjavik: Tailor-Made 10-Person Exploration Tour

Line of hikers walking a path among green mountains.

What To Bring On Your Tour In Iceland

You want to come prepared for your Iceland tours, whether that means picking out the right clothes or double-checking you have all your photography equipment. If you forget something, your tour might suffer.

A Good Camera

When taking a tour of Iceland, you want to bring along a great camera! If you have a newer smartphone, then you could be good to go. We recommend checking out the GoPro Hero 7 if you are looking for a great adventure camera for both photos and video! We also love the Sony A6300 as it is a good quality camera, pretty affordable, and easy to use when touring Iceland!

A Waterproof Daypack

When touring Iceland, you are going to need something to carry your essentials. Ladies, this is the time to leave the purse at home and take something more substantial. You will want something waterproof as the weather in Iceland changes on a dime! A waterproof daypack like this Hikepro 20L is perfect because it packs up small for your flight and will keep your essentials dry during your tour in Iceland!

Granola Bars

Most of these best tours in Iceland do not include snacks so that is up to you to bring. If you are going on one of the longer tours of Iceland that are 10-13 hours long, you are going to want to be prepared with food! We love these Quaker Granola Bars and always bring food to Iceland since it is such an expensive country. You can easily buy bars in advance so you can save time and money once you are in Iceland.

Portable Power Bank

You are going to want to have your phone charged so you can document your tour in Iceland which is why we always recommend taking a portable power bank like this one!  These portable chargers are good for multiple charges and will keep your phone ready for photos and calls if necessary.

Waterproof Shell Pants

We highly recommend packing a waterproof shell for pants such as the Columbia Storm Surge Pants. That way, if it is raining or you are hiking behind a waterfall, all you have to do is put these pants on over your normal clothes. If you are touring Iceland for hours and hours, the last thing you will want is wet pants.

Woman in a red hat holds a DSLR camera to her face to take a photo on a windy day.

As you can see, Iceland has a lot to offer. It really is one of those countries that has something to suit everyone. We hope this list of the best tours in Iceland has helped you decide which is the best for you. We know you will have an incredible time whatever you decide and we wish you an amazing trip.

public bus for reykjavik airport transfer

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Iceland: Land of Fire & Ice

About this tour.

An island of dramatic contrasts, uncover Iceland’s natural beauty through a land forged by ice and fire. Travel the “Golden Circle” – an epicenter of natural scenic wonders. Stay overnight in a local fishing community and enjoy a picturesque cruise of the bay. Join an explorative coastline walk and visit a maritime museum that illustrates the work of Icelandic fishermen through the centuries. Soak in the mineral-rich waters of the Blue Lagoon. Discover otherworldly wonders and captivating cultures on a fascinating Icelandic journey.

Your Tour Includes

  • 4 Handpicked Accommodations
  • 2 Choice on Tour Options

Included Highlights

  • Golden Circle
  • Thingvellir National Park

Your Tour at a Glance

8 Breakfasts

Travel Style

Best time for travel.

Activity Level

  • Level This Tour

For specific details about this tour's activity level and other info to know before you book your trip, click here.

Best Time for Travel Iceland: Land of Fire & Ice

While just about any month is great to visit Iceland, there are a few prime times of the year for the Iceland: Land of Fire & Ice tour. Here are some recommendations from our destination experts.

Spring: In spring, you can expect more hours of sunlight and thawing snow and ice, allowing you to explore the beautiful landscapes. In less-crowded March, you can still catch some of the winter activities, or even glimpse the northern lights.

Summer: Summer boasts longer and warmer days, ideal for exploring Iceland’s many natural wonders. July and August see the highest number of travelers and some areas will be crowded. During the height of the midnight sun (peak aligns with the summer solstice), "the golden hour" can last up to 7 hours, which creates excellent light conditions for photographers.

Fall: With the peak travel season over, September brings bright, sunny days with many popular attractions still open. But the nighttime is when things really “heat” up and aurora hunting season begins. The temperature is slightly colder, but winter has yet to settle in, so the only snow you'll see is at the tops of the mountains in the distance. Iceland’s fall foliage puts on its own show, whether you’re walking in Reykjavik or hiking in the countryside.

Travel Styles

Highlights and inclusions.

Must-See Inclusions:

  • Gain a local's perspective of Reykjavík on a walking tour.
  • Travel to the Golden Circle, one of many of Iceland's natural wonders.

Journey to the spectacular Gullfoss waterfall.

Learn about Iceland’s geology during a visit to the Lava Exhibition Center.

Cultural Experiences:

Learn about the 400-year-old tradition of catching and preserving the Greenland shark.

  • Explore Icelandic life at the Skógar Museum.
  • Glide past icebergs on a cruise of the ice-strewn Jökulsárlón Glacial Lagoon.

Straddle two continents while exploring Thingvellir’s rugged rift valley.

Culinary Inclusions:

Savor Icelandic cuisine at a popular local restaurant.

  • Try cured hákarl, an Icelandic delicacy.

Relish Iceland’s local cheeses during a visit to a family-owned dairy farm.

  • Snæfellsnes Peninsula
  • Breidafjördur Bay Cruise
  • Lava Exhibition Center
  • Skógar Museum
  • Jökulsárlón Glacial Lagoon
  • Vatnajökull National Park
  • Seljalandsfoss
  • Blue Lagoon

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Getting Prepared

Know before you go, travel tips, enhance your tour.

  • Choice On Tour

Pre and Post Night Stay

Unique Experience

Cultural Experiences

Enhance Your Trip

  • Tour Extensions

Choose between a traditional hike and a relaxing afternoon at the pool today. For the first choice, join your Tour Manager and hike up historic Helgafell Mountain. Known as the Sacred Hill, this is considered a holy place to many Icelandic people. Legend states that if you hike to the top without looking back or uttering a single word, you will get three wishes fulfilled. Your second choice is to spend your afternoon on your own at Stykkisholmur Swimming Pool. This facility, located close to your hotel, includes multiple places to swim or soak. Whether you want to get into indoor or outdoor swimming pools, hot tubs with mineral-rich thermal water, a shallow wading pool or a waterslide, there are plenty of ways to enjoy the water.

Hotel-Centerhotel Plaza

Gain a local's perspective of Reykjavík on a walking tour.

Travel to the Golden Circle, one of many of Iceland's natural wonders.

Explore Icelandic life at the Skógar Museum.

Glide past icebergs on a cruise of the ice-strewn Jökulsárlón Glacial Lagoon.

Try cured hákarl, an Icelandic delicacy.

Accommodations

Arrive earlier.

Pre Night: Centerhotel Plaza From $115 per night

Centerhotel Plaza

Fosshotel stykkisholmur, hotel katla by kea, stay longer.

Post Night: Centerhotel Plaza From $115 per night

Trip Reviews

Live, Unedited, & Independent Traveler Reviews

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Iceland Small Group Tours

Uncover new and exciting adventures in Iceland by taking part in our small group tours. Go sightseeing at your own pace surrounded by travellers like you. Provided by top tour operators & travel companies, our small group tours in Iceland will offer you the perfect balance between spending time on your own and group activities. Choose among the best trips to Iceland .

101 Iceland small group tours with 1,501 reviews

The Great Round Tour: Around Iceland in 13 days Tour

The Great Round Tour: Around Iceland in 13 days

Excellent guide/driver and very good accommodations with one exception. Would recommend highly
  • 10% deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

5 Day - Snaefellsnes, South Coast and Northern Lights Tour

  • Active Adventure
  • Northern Lights
  • Christmas & New Year

5 Day - Snaefellsnes, South Coast and Northern Lights

Fantastic with awesome guides.

6 Day - Around Iceland Adventure Tour

6 Day - Around Iceland Adventure

Loved every second of the tour,gunnar the guide was excellent, extremely knowledgeable and helpful. And the group was just a good size to make friends.

Best of Iceland Tour

  • In-depth Cultural

Best of Iceland

I enjoyed the trip around Iceland. We visited many places that weren’t overrun with tourists. ????. Great scenery.

Iceland Discovery Tour

Iceland Discovery

The tour was wonderful - it offered all the highlights and many different impressions and activities. Breathtaking waterfalls, vast landscapes, glaciers and icebergs, black beaches, secluded accommodations in unreal landscape and all this accompanied by an extremely friendly and good-humored tour guide.

8 Days Guided Iceland Circle Tour

  • Coach / Bus

8 Days Guided Iceland Circle

What a magnificent adventure. The tour guide, Martina, was so knowledgeable and interesting. The group was caring and very diverse from all over. We saw some unbelievable natural wonders like glaciers and waterfalls. Our guide gave us old stories of trolls and founding members of Iceland. So many happy memories to share. Would highly recommend.

Iceland Northern Lights & Golden Circle Tour

Iceland Northern Lights & Golden Circle

Great attention to detail. Enthusiast tour leader. Loved the adventure!

Classic Iceland Adventure Tour

  • Hiking & Trekking

Classic Iceland Adventure

7 Days Self-drive | Golden Circle, South Coast, Snæfellsnes and Reykjavik Tour

7 Days Self-drive | Golden Circle, South Coast, Snæfellsnes and Reykjavik

Overall, Iceland is incredible and the sights included in the tour were amazing. The itinerary could be more detailed with time spent driving, what time certain attractions close, etc. We found ourselves driving all the way someplace just to find it closed, or not making it back to the hotel in time to eat dinner. Also, we booked a few extras through the tour like admission to the Blue Lagoon and a glacier hike. Then I learned that it's much less expensive to book directly with the lagoons and other attractions.

5-Day Laugavegur Trek in Huts Tour

  • Mountain Hikes

5-Day Laugavegur Trek in Huts

Great trip...;leader was well versed in history and culture of Iceland....well planned out

Northern Lights Escape Tour

Northern Lights Escape

Absolutely a fantastic trip on every way. Great trip leader. Stefan!

10 day Guided tour | Iceland Complete - Small Group Tour

10 day Guided tour | Iceland Complete - Small Group

Very good in all respects. But I would have appreciated a more informative guide in relation to the geology we were viewing.

8 Days Self-drive | Around Iceland Ring Road Tour Tour

8 Days Self-drive | Around Iceland Ring Road Tour

Only one miss: the apartmentbuilding on the second night in Akureyri was a bad experience. They had gone to selfservice in May, a sign on the door said, and every guest needed a code for self-checkin. I had no code. Luckily people were inside, so I could call the owners. But no info on the neighborhood, where to eat, stuff like that. Room was ok, but barely could open any window.

ICELAND – Multi-sport Summer Adventure Tour

ICELAND – Multi-sport Summer Adventure

Tailor-Made Best Iceland Tour, Private Trip Tour

Tailor-Made Best Iceland Tour, Private Trip

  • Book With Flexibility This operator allows you to rebook your dates or tours with them for free, waiving change fees.

Reviews of Small Group tours to Iceland

I loved our late December tour. I would recommend it and would do it again. There are two things that I wished I had known before the trip. 1) Obviously the Northern Lights are difficult to predict. I didn't realize though that ratings for the intensity that, range from 0-9, that 1-3 which is most common are also not visible to the naked eye only the camera. So even though I technically "saw" the lights as my camera showed them, emotionally it doesn't feel like it. 2) Since the days are so short, there is a lot of chasing sunlight feeling. It wasn't bad, but it basically means that you have like 30 mins at a beach or waterfall before heading to the next destination. It felt like a photo scavenger hunt race. Walk briskly out to these beautiful views, snap a dozen rapid photos and selfies, then race back to the bus. Along these lines, the part that was poorly communicated, was that because we were racing the daylight, that we nearly always ended up grabbing a gas station lunch and eating in the bus. It is fine, but I wished I had known going in. When the tour description says lunch in "x" town, that is clearly the longer season description, when daylight lasts 12 hours, not 4. The glacier hike was the highlight of the trip. The ice cave is interesting, but the real excitement is walking in the blue ice crevasses on the glacier.
Adolf is an amazing guide. Couldn't have had a better time if I tried! Amazing country and I will be back!
  • Iceland Travel Guide | All You Need to Know
  • Best 7 Day Iceland Itineraries 2024/2025 (with Reviews)
  • Best 10 Day Iceland Itineraries 2024/2025 (with Reviews)
  • What is the best time to visit Iceland in 2024/2025?
  • Weather in Iceland in 2024/2025

International Versions

  • Deutsch: Island Rundreisen Kleingruppe
  • Français: Circuits Islande en petit groupe
  • Español: Circuitos por Islandia para grupos pequeños
  • Nederlands: Groepsreizen met kleine groepen in Ijsland

Panagea

Best Guided Tours of Iceland 

best guided tours iceland

  • December 22, 2022

Shifting tectonic plates, volcanic eruptions, northern lights, water-filled glaciers, and icebergs set Iceland apart from all other countries. They are also the same factors attracting multitudes to the country. However, experiencing all the extraordinary sceneries may be a hassle without proper guidance or planning, which is why you need tour companies. You can rely on tour guides to show you the best access roads that will allow you to enjoy all the features.

Deluxe Iceland can ensure you experience the best that Iceland sites offer according to your personal preferences. We understand that traveling style and taste differ – some people prefer thrilling tours while others want relaxed versions.

Best Guided Tours

Northern Lights Adventure

The northern lights remain one of the spectacular occurrences across the world. If you visit Iceland between September and April, you can enjoy the sites from inside the caves or other specific spots that your tour guide will recommend. The adventurous winter trip is often on many wish lists, with the phenomenon only happening in very few countries around the globe.

Some people opt for self-guided tours when seeing the northern lights, but a guided excursion is always better. With an experienced official guide, you can explore the rural areas or reach the outskirts of the urban settings for a more awe-inspiring and memorable experience. You also get an explanation of the phenomenon through the best viewing points with minimal cloud covers.

Tour guide companies have different rates for various preferences, whether you travel alone or as a family. Determine the costs beforehand as you compare all the available tour options to avoid confusion.

best guided tours iceland

The Golden Circle

The Golden Circle is one of the top tourist locations in Iceland, with options that include volcanic craters and breathtaking waterfalls. Accessibility of the attractions throughout the year makes them the most popular and favorable tourist sites, with simple access making the trip more fun. Numerous options are available for our choosing, from hot springs and waterfalls to UNESCO-listed national park – Pingvellir National Park.

The Golden Circle does more than entice visitors – the sites also hold celebrated facts and local cultures. For instance, Pingvellir remains the original site for the longest ongoing parliament in the world from as early as 930 AD. Gullfoss remains a spectacular site with water cascading more than 100 feet down.

If you choose Deluxe Iceland, you can enjoy family-suited adventures like horseback riding, snorkeling in Silfra fissure between two continents, volcano hikes, and glacier walking, among others. All these are available on different days, perfect for a one-week stay or more.

best guided tours iceland

Visiting The South Coast

The unmatched beauty on the South Coast is only comparable to unforgettable sceneries in the Golden Circle. The spectacular coastline brings numerous activities, ranging from a simple stroll along the beaches to the unmatched enchanting scenes that include black volcanic sand and basalt columns in Reynisfjara beach. Glacier-capped volcanoes are also available, together with other geological marvels that will make your trip lovelier.

Your tour guide can arrange the best route with more scenic features – options include geothermal areas with formations worth marveling at or the countryside with envious greenery. Traveling is better when the weather allows you to take in more stunning features that remain hidden for most tourists, including some of the best-hidden gems in the country. Possibilities are limitless when you choose the South Coast tour – you will not be bored or run out of options. You can try a new site or activity each day in Iceland.

Ice Cave Explorations

Iceland has crystal blue clear waters that you cannot find anywhere else. The only potential disadvantage is that you will have to visit Iceland during specific times of the year to experience the magic within the ice caves. An ideal time would be from November to March because of the appropriateness of the caves.

The existence of a few glacier caves across the globe is part of the reason ice cave explorations in Iceland are special. The uniqueness of those here makes them exceptional. The caves have distinctive features that set them apart – visiting several does not feel repetitive. Their locations also provide convenience, allowing you to access them hassle-free on the same day – different areas with glacier caves leave you feeling like you have had vastly different experiences.

best guided tours iceland

Avoid All the Stress of Planning by Hiring Deluxe Iceland

Your experience with any of the above tours depends significantly on the tour guide company you decide on and your role in the planning process. You should hire a suitable company early enough and gather the itineraries you will need if the company does not cater to everything. Choosing Deluxe Iceland guarantees a remarkable experience with customized travel options according to your preferences.

We do not provide a one-fits-all service – our approaches are tailor-made for utmost comfort and convenience. We also go above and beyond to ensure all trip arrangements align, from arrival to departure, to guarantee a stress-free and smooth experience.

We offer various private guided tours, such as:

Northern Lights Adventure  – includes a stay at the Blue Lagoon with geothermal waters and spa-like treatment to help you relax. We make the 6-day tour fun-filled by including different activities and stopovers to maximize your experience in Iceland.

Family Adventures  – during summer, including glaciers, walks, a visit to the Land of Fire and Ice, snorkeling, sightseeing along the Golden Circle route, and a trip to the South Shore – to name a few. We mix the events to suit the whole family.

Winter Romance  tour – including a soak in the geothermal waters in the Blue Lagoon and a visit to the Lava Tunnel, Diamond Cave, and Ice cave.

Wonders of the North and East   tour – involving scenic sites in East Iceland. Examples include visiting Petra’s Stone Mineral Collection Stöðvarfjörður and a boat tour to Drangey Island.

You can be spoilt for choice when visiting Iceland – numerous options may make it harder to choose what to do. However, you can discuss your preferences with expert guides who will recommend the best tour guide alternative depending on the season of your visit.

Top example luxury tours

Privately Guided Tour

6 days / 5 nights

Price P.P from

8 - 10 hours

Private Golden Circle

10 - 11 hours

Private South Shore

7 days / 6 nights

Family Adventure

Winter romance.

best guided tours iceland

More From Forbes

How to see the best of iceland on a budget.

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Iceland's volcanic activity and geothermal energy is on public display at the Geysir Geothermal ... [+] Area.

Exploring the wonderful natural beauty of Iceland doesn't have to mean emptying your wallet. Despite its reputation for being on the pricier side, Iceland offers a treasure trove of experiences that don't cost a dime.

Whether you're hiking through pristine trails or exploring geysers, some of Iceland’s core tourism experiences can be enjoyed without the need for running up a massive credit card bill.

From its breathtaking landscapes and cascading waterfalls to its unique geothermal phenomena and dancing northern lights, Iceland's natural wonders are largely accessible for free.

So, with some careful planning and sensible decisions on transport and accommodation, it’s possible to enjoy the best of Iceland for cheap.

What’s Expensive In Iceland?

Although Iceland isn’t completely barren, its complex geography means that not much is actually made in the country. Iceland’s primary production is geothermal energy, widely available, which lowers the cost of power and heating for all islanders.

The northern lights and geothermal hot springs are among the free or cheap natural attractions in ... [+] Iceland.

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However, most products aside from some meats, fish, and wool are imported, which drives up costs for everything else. This increases local salaries, which, in turn, increases costs for tourists.

Hotel accommodation, meals, and souvenirs will all cost significantly more than most travelers might expect. In fact, the cost of living comparison site Numbeo currently lists Iceland as 6.9% more expensive than Norway, a country often perceived as Europe’s most expensive.

Another issue for tourists is that it’s not always easy to assess value in Iceland due to the difficulty in calculating exchange rates.

For example, at the time of writing, 1,000 Icelandic krona is worth $7.25. That makes figuring out the true cost to you of something priced at, say, 17,500 Icelandic krona, requires some serious mental gymnastics.

Iceland’s Natural Attractions

As tempting as it is to get a selfie at the Blue Lagoon for bragging rights, entry to the world-famous site costs up to $100 in high season. But much of the reason for the attraction’s fame is simply clever marketing.

Save your money and visit a much cheaper alternative , where you’ll enjoy a very similar experience.

The waterfall Seljalandsfoss is a popular tourist attraction on the south coast of Iceland.

Iceland is jam-packed with fantastic natural attractions that cost nothing except the means of getting there. The country's landscape is a patchwork of waterfalls, geysers, hot springs, glaciers, volcanic landscapes, and stunning coastlines that are accessible without admission fees.

Waterfalls : Don't miss the chance to see some of Iceland's most famous waterfalls such as Seljalandsfoss, where you can walk behind the cascading water, and Skógafoss, known for its sheer size and beauty. Both are located along the south coast and are easily accessible from the main road.

National Parks : Iceland's national parks, including Thingvellir, Vatnajökull, and Snæfellsjökull, offer a plethora of sights and activities at no cost.

Thingvellir National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a unique place where you can walk between two tectonic plates. Vatnajökull National Park boasts Europe's largest glacier, where you can marvel at ice caves, glacial lagoons, and dynamic landscapes.

Geysers : Although volcanic eruptions aren’t an everyday occurrence, geysers are one of the visible indicators of Iceland’s volcanic activity hiding just below the surface. The Geysir Geothermal Area, home to the Strokkur geyser, which erupts every few minutes, is another must-visit site that's free to access.

Hiking trails : Iceland is a hiker's paradise, offering countless trails that cater to all levels of experience. Hike the trails around Landmannalaugar to see its multicolored rhyolite mountains and lava fields, or explore the dramatic landscapes of the Fimmvörðuháls glacier trek.

The spectacular landscape of lakes and multicolored mountains in Landmannalaugar valley, Iceland.

Northern lights : From September to early April, the northern lights can often be seen in Iceland. Patience and clear skies are essential for this unforgettable experience, and you’ll increase your chances by heading north.

Iceland Budget Travel Tips

The best approach when visiting Iceland is to be prepared to pay for the things that matter to you, but take advantage of savings when and where they are available. As with most ways of cutting the cost of travel, this involves some advance planning.

Book Rental Cars Well In Advance

Renting a car is often seen as a necessity for exploring Iceland's vast landscapes, but it can also be one of the biggest expenses of your trip.

To save money, book your rental car several months in advance, especially if you're traveling during the peak season. Prices can double or triple closer to your travel dates, that’s if vehicles are even available.

Additionally, consider renting a smaller, more fuel-efficient car, as gas prices in Iceland are high. Compare prices across different rental services and look for deals that include insurance and/or don’t limit mileage, as this can significantly reduce your overall spending.

Consider Organized Tours

While it may seem counterintuitive when trying to save money, in some cases, joining organized tours can actually be more cost-effective than going it alone, especially for remote or hard-to-reach areas or for non-drivers.

So many of Iceland's natural attractions are available for free, helping to keep your costs down in ... [+] an otherwise expensive country.

Tours can provide value by including transportation, admission fees to attractions, and sometimes even meals. Group tours can also offer insights and access to experiences you might miss out on otherwise.

Solo travelers can benefit most from such tours, as there’s no-one to split costs such as rental cars with when traveling alone. If you’re not keen on group travel, look for small group tours for a balance between cost and personal experience.

Travel Off-Peak

Iceland's peak tourist season runs from June to August . Traveling outside these months not only means fewer crowds but also lower prices and better availability on accommodation, car rentals, and some activities.

Consider visiting in the shoulder seasons—spring (April to May) or autumn (September to early October)—when the weather is still relatively mild.

The long winter season (late October to March) offers its own unique experiences, such as ice caving and the potential for northern lights, but prepare for shorter days and colder, more uncertain weather.

Consider Self-Catered Accommodation

To further cut costs, opt for self-catered accommodations such as Airbnb rentals, hostels with kitchen facilities, or camping during the warmer months. This allows you to save on dining out by cooking for yourself. On a longer trip, these savings can really mount up, even if your accommodation costs a little more.

Remember, tap water in Iceland is some of the cleanest in the world, so instead of spending money on bottled water, bring a durable water bottle that you can refill anywhere.

David Nikel

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Best Iceland Guided Tours for any Budget or Season

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The very best Iceland guided tours handpicked to suit every traveler’s needs. Whether you like adventure tours or city walking tours, we got you covered in this guide.

In our recent trip to Iceland , we utilized guided tours to explore the beautiful landscape and the natural wonders of this country. A lot of interesting Iceland tours to choose from and you won’t be disappointed. If you don’t have an international driving license or never driven on snowy roads, these tours are the way to go. Yes, you can explore Iceland without renting a car. So, let’s check out what are the best guided tours in Iceland.

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Best Iceland Guided Tours for any time of year

Pin for Best Iceland Guided Tours

Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. If you click one of them, we may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you.

For ease of understanding and selection, we have divided the article based on the best Iceland tour varieties. The tour listing also includes budget options and we have tried to include as many variations and combos of tours as possible.

Iceland Guided Tours

  • Classic Day Tours Iceland – Golden Circle tours , South Coast, Reykjavik Sightseeing (all year)
  • Iceland Winter Tours – Northern Lights , Ice Caving Tours, Snow Mobile Tours
  • Adventure Tours Iceland – Glacier tours , Lava tours and Icelandic Horse riding tours (all year)
  • Special Tours Iceland – Food Tours, Photo tours & Game of Thrones tour (all year)
  • Multi-Day Tours , including Iceland to Greenland Guided Tours (all year)

A majority of the tours mentioned in this post are via GetYourGuide . This is the tour booking agency that we use for all of our travels. They have a great selection of tours, and their website is super user friendly.

Once you book a tour, you will receive the tour information via email. They will send a reminder a few days prior to your trip, and you can manage all the bookings via your GetYourGuide account. 

Should your travel plans change, you can easily cancel the tour and request a full refund, if canceled 24 hours in advance . We have been booking with them for years, and never had any problems!

Why take guided tours in Iceland?

Guided tours in Iceland are not intrusive at all. We have taken tours during our recent trip to Iceland and we really enjoyed it. Our hotel was located in downtown Reykjavik and pick up and the drop was a breeze.

The tour operators would require you to start 30 minutes prior to the start time. They will pick you up from bus stops and bring you to the BSI terminal, which is a central bus station in Reykjavik, from where they will take you to the destination.

The buses are equipped to handle unpredictable weather and road conditions. On your guided tours, you will be accompanied by a driver and a host. All tour instructions come from the host aka tour guide.

The host lets you enjoy the sightseeing spots on your own (in short they don’t babysit or do they tell you what to do, which is great). They take you to the spot, leave you there (for a specified period of time) so that you can enjoy it.

If you take a specific tour like an ice cave or lava cave tour, you will meet a guide at the cave who leads you in the entire tour (for your safety and information). Visitors are led in small groups . You cannot take these tours by yourself, a guide is essential.

Golden Circle Iceland Tour (Cost: $60 – 120 USD approx.)

Geyser part of the Golden Circle Iceland Tour

The Iceland Golden Circle tours are one of the most popular tours, which you should not miss. The tour covers a UNESCO World heritage site (Thingeviller National Park or Þingvellir National Park), geyser (Strokkur and Geysir Geothermal area), and one of the beautiful waterfalls (Gulfoss) in Iceland.

The classic Golden Circle tour takes about 6 hours to complete. Most tours start in the morning – 08:00 am or 09:00 am and a few tours also commence in the afternoon at about 02:00 pm.

Other than the classic route, many tour operators in Iceland also offer add-on tours like Secret Lagoon , Fontana Wellness Spa, or Northern Lights Tour (winter season only).

Why should you take this tour?  

  • It is an ideal day tour, for approximately 6 hours from Reykjavik
  • One of the cheapest tours starting at $60 USD and above
  • Activity Level – Easy. Fits every traveler
  • USP – You can see 3 natural sightseeing spots in one day and also customize the day trip to the Golden Circle by including one of the add-ons to make the most of your short trip of Iceland.

Book your perfect Golden Circle Iceland tour below

  • Golden Circle (6 hour Morning Tour)
  • Golden Circle (Afternoon Tour)
  • Golden Circle and Northern Nights in Winter

South Coast Tour Iceland (Cost: $85 – 120 USD approx.)

Black sand beaches in South Coast Tour of Iceland

The Iceland south coast tour explores the Solheimajokull glacier, two gorgeous waterfalls – Sejlalandsfoss and Skogarfoss, and takes you all the way to Vik.

Vik is the southernmost community of Iceland with 271 residents. You will also witness the beautiful Reynisfjara black sand beaches. This tour takes about 9 – 11 hours to complete and they start in the morning. You can also include a Northern Lights tour.

  • Day tour from Reykjavik takes approximately 8-9 hours
  • One of the popular tours in Iceland.
  • Village of Vik is scenic and there is a factory outlet for IceWear clothing located.
  • Activity Level – Easy
  • USP – Reynisfjara black sand beach and the basalt creations. So many movies were shot here.

Book your South Coast Tour below

  • South Coast of Iceland Tour
  • Northern Lights Tour with South Coast Iceland

Reykjavik Iceland Day Tours (Cost: $40USD – 70 USD)

The capital city of Iceland – Reyjkavik – should not be ignored on your trip. The downtown city is hip & vibrant and there are many ways to explore the city. During winters, you can opt for a hop-on and hop-off sightseeing bus tour. And summer months, it is perfect for a walking tour.

Hop on and Hop-off Sightseeing tour passes are valid for 24 hours and are a perfect way to cover all the sightseeing attractions that Reykjavik has to offer. These buses operate at any time of the year.

Views from Hallgrímskirkja church- Cheap and free things to do in Reykjavik

Why should you take a tour of Reykjavik?  

  • We know that Iceland is a nature paradise, but don’t ignore Reykjavik
  • Explore downtown for its unique historical tales from Vikings to current day economic boom
  • Activity Level – Easy (options for bus tours or walking tour with a professor)
  • USP – Colorful downtown streets, Tallest church – Hallgrímskirkja, our favorite – the Pond.

Book your Reykjavik Sightseeing Tour below

  • Hop on and Hop-off Sightseeing tour
  • Reykjavik City Tour 

Reykjavik is a perfect base to embark on various day tours from the capital city. It is a convenient way to explore Iceland without a rental car. Most of the popular day tours from Reyjkavik include

Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon Full-Day Tour from Reykjavik

Snæfellsnes Peninsula Full-Day Tour

  • Puffin Boat Tour from Reykjavik

Ice Cave Tour Iceland (Cost: $ 185 USD+ approx.)

Winter tours in Iceland are a treat. Northern lights, that are a natural phenomenon can be seen in Iceland during winters and there are many tours available to witness the aurora borealis. Other winter tours include ice cave and glacier hiking tours, snowmobile tours, etc.

Chase waterfalls & northern lights,soak in geothermal spas, meet horses & pluffy sheeps & explore Reykjavik's colorful lanes in your 3 day Iceland Itinerary

Iceland Ice cave tours are one of kind in the whole world. Due to the existence of many glaciers and volcanoes, Iceland is rightly called the land of fire and ice. And when in Iceland, consider walking inside a glacier and experiencing nature at its finest! In Iceland, ice caves are also called crystal caves as the interiors shine like a crystal or a diamond.

Good to Know about Iceland Ice cave tours

The ice cave tours can be undertaken in winters only. During summers, due to warm temperatures and melting snow, ice cave tours are not possible. Ice cave tours available from mid-November to March.

Activity Level – Easy. The ice cave tour is about 2-4 hours and you will be walking on ice (so wear sturdy shoes). Not climbing on ice or anything. All tours are led by a professional guide.

There are only 2 places in Iceland, where you can take an Ice Cave tours  – Vatnajokull National Park and Langjokull Glacier Park.

  • Vatnajökull National Park (located 5 hours from Iceland), a natural ice cave. It can be taken as a multi-day tour from Reykjavik, not as a day tour. In this recommended Ice Cave tour, you will e xperience a super jeep drive to Vatnajökull which is also Europe’s largest glacier. BOOK HERE >  ICE CAVE TOUR AT VATNAJOKULL NATIONAL PARK
  • Langjokull Glacier Park is a man-made ice cave and it can be done as day trips from the capital city. Day tour from Reykjavik – 10 hours
  • At Langjokull Glacier Park, you can explore the ice tunnels during summer as well. (ice tunnel experience is not the same as ice caves)
  • At the price of the full tour, it includes National park entry and a guided tour of the cave. Equipment is provided as well. 

Book your Ice Cave Tour below

Langjökull Glacier Ice Cave Tour

Vatnajokull Glacier: Ice Caving and Glacier Hiking

Northern Lights Iceland Tour (Cost: $ 45 USD+ approx.)

Aurora borealis or Northern Lights tours are one of the most popular winter tours in Iceland. These tours start between 08:30 pm to 10:00 pm from Reykjavik. They last around 3-4 hours.

The very best guided tours of Iceland handpicked to suit every traveler needs. Whether you like adventure tours or city walking tour, we got you covered.

Northern lights can be witnessed between 11:00 pm – 3:00 am during the months of October to February. Keep in mind, sighting northern lights is weather dependent. Most tour agencies will either refund your money if the Northern Lights tour is canceled or they can arrange for a free tour the next day.

Reykjavik Sightseeing – one of the best Iceland tour companies provides you with tripods and also takes pictures of you during northern lights sighting. (you get to keep the photos for free)

Book your Northern Lights Tour below

  • Northern Lights Tours from Reykjavik 
  • Northern Lights and Aurora Museum Tour 

Snowmobile Tours in Iceland (Cost: $250+ USD)

Another popular winter tour in Iceland is riding a snowmobile and exploring glaciers and caves. Add that under a northern lights sky and it is pure magic!

One of the most popular snowmobile tours is on the Langjökull Glacier. This tour takes about 8 hours and it excellent if you have already explored the Golden Circle route. You will drive through snowfields and enjoy some breathtaking views.

Good to Know about Snowmobile tours

  • You will need a valid driving license to operate the snowmobile
  • Kids are allowed to join in as passengers
  • Iceland snowmobile tour includes a drive to a glacier (from Reykjavik) and 1 hour guided tour on a snowmobile.
  • Although it is a winter activity, some tours are available in the summertime as well. During summer months, you can watch the midnight sun
  • Snowmobiling on top of the Eyjafjallajökull glacier is a great option for first-timers and can be done in summer as well.
  • Winter snowmobiling months are from October to February. Summer snowmobiling months are from May to August
  • USP – You get to ride a snowmobile and explore some of the finest landscapes in Iceland

Book your Snowmobile Tour below

Langjökull Glacier Snowmobiling Tour

Small-Group Golden Circle & Snowmobiling Tour from Reykjavik

Iceland Snorkel Tour – Snorkeling between tectonic plates (Cost: $125+ USD approx.)

NOW, this is a pure bucket list adventure for you. Snorkel at a point where the tectonic plates meet. Yes, the tectonic plates of North America and Europe meet at the Silfra Fissure in Þingvellir National Park – a UNESCO World Heritage Site. 

In this 3 hour tour – in the southern part of Iceland, you will snorkel where the tectonic plates of 2 continents drifting apart, with a certified PADI dive guide.

Its a small group activity tour and all the amazing underwater moments and amazing colors of the glacier will be captured on GoPro. You will receive the GoPro photos for free – keep them as souvenirs. 

Drysuit and other snorkeling equipment are provided. Hot drinks and cookies at the end of the experience to keep you warm and fuzzy as you walk through the national park. 

BOOK THIS RECOMMENDED TOUR > 3-hour snorkel tour between the tectonic plates of North America and Europe

Iceland Glacier Tour (Cost: $80+ USD approx.)

Imagine walking (or hiking) on a sheet of ice, on a glacier. Well, that is possible with Iceland’s Glacier tours. These tours are fun and for everybody – young and old. These glacier walks are led by experienced and certified glacier guides. 

Iceland Glacier Tour

The main glaciers of Iceland are Snæfellsjökull, Drangajökull, Eiríksjökull, Langjökull, Hofsjökull, Tungnafellsjökull, Vatnajökull, Mýralsjökull and Eyjafjallajökull and Sólheimajökull.

These glaciers are located in the South or in the Midlands of Iceland. And because of weather conditions –  snow falls and stays there rather than melting away.

Glaciers in Iceland, occupy only 20% of the landmass today. Vatnajökull glacier has been rapidly shrinking.

Good to know about Glacier Tours

  • Glacier tours can be walking, hiking or climbing tours
  • Glacier walking tours are available all year round.
  • Activity Level – Easy to Difficult, depends on the tour you choose
  • USP – The glacier landmass keeps changing every year, so it is definitely worth visiting. Also, it’s not every day that you get to walk or explore a glacier
  • Top Recommended Tours : One of our favorite winter tours is a breakfast to dinner sightseeing exploration of the southern coast of Iceland to Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon – outlet of the largest glacier in Europe. From your hotel in Reykjavik, as you take the road trips you will be transferred to the southern coast and the dramatic Glacier Lagoon with floating icebergs and stunning views. We will come face to face with the glacier outlet and walk on the surface. Check out this tour here >  JOKULSARLON GLACIER LAGOON TOUR 

Book your Iceland Glacier Tours below

Sólheimajökull Ice Climb and Glacier Hike

Skaftafell National Park: 3-Hour Glacier Hike

Lava Cave Tour Iceland (Cost: $65 – $405 USD approx.)

There are about 130 active and dormant volcanoes in Iceland, making it one of the most volatile habitats on earth. The infamous eruption of Eyjafjallajokull  in 2010, brought a lot of media attention. Today there is a volcano study center located near it. 

Volcano Katla is the most dangerous volcanoes in Iceland and it is located not so far off from Eyjafjallajokull . You will probably see it when you drive or take a tour of South Iceland. You will also notice that the landscape on either side of the road from Reykjavik, is full of black lava and no trees at all.

The very best guided tours of Iceland handpicked to suit every traveler needs. Whether you like adventure tours or city walking tour, we got you covered.

Currently, there are 30 active volcanoes in Iceland. Lava tours are one of the popular tours to take in Iceland. These tours are led by a guide and there are different activity levels available. Site of the lava guided tours is dormant volcanoes like Raufarholshellir (located 30 minutes from Reykjavik), Hallmundarhraun (in west Iceland), or Thrihnukagigur.

Good to know about Lava Cave Tour Iceland 

  • Lava fields tour can be taken all year long
  • During winters, there are ice sculptures and icicles created all over the lava formation
  • The “easy” lava tours involve walking over lava and on bridges. It is normal for an hour or so. There will be beautiful lightning inside the lava tunnel, making it great for pictures
  • The “difficult” lava tours are more intense. It lasts 3 hours or so, where a guide takes you to the depth of the volcano. It is usually dark, muddy, uneven ground, and claustrophobic. So not recommended if you have knee or back issues or if you are pregnant.
  • USP – Whether you take the easy or intense tour, the inside of the volcano and its geological history is definitely interesting.

Which Lava tour to take?

  • Raufarholshellir Volcano – It is located 30 minutes from Reykjavik. This is the 4th largest volcano in Iceland and is easily accessible from Reykjavik. Both easy and extreme tours are available here including pick up and drop off from the hotel.
  • Thrihnukagigur Volcano – Only operated from May to October every year. This is a moderate to difficult hike, where you will be taken to the bottom of the volcano, descending at 120 meters (or 400 feet). 
  • Hallmundarhraun   lava field – It is located in west Iceland. The lava tube where a tour occurs is called the Vidgelmir cave. This volcano is one of the largest in Iceland. Both easy and extreme tours are available here.

Book your Lava Cave Iceland Tours below

Raufarhólshellir Lava Tunnel: Underground Expedition

Inside the Thrihnukagigur Volcano: Day Trip from Reykjavik

From Reykjavik: Raufarhólshellir Lava Tunnel by Bus

Icelandic Horse Tours (Cost: $85 -150 USD approx.)

Icelandic horses are very handsome and so I do recommend that you meet them! Although I have not taken the horse riding tours myself, I did some research about the condition of the horses and the stable where they were located.

The very best guided tours of Iceland handpicked to suit every traveler needs. Whether you like adventure tours or city walking tour, we got you covered.

Hafnarfjörðurn is a countryside located 10 minutes from Reykjavik. This place has a stable and this is where horse riding tours are undertaken. 

Horse riding tours are family-run businesses and they do take care of their horses.  The actual horse riding is for 2- 4 hours (half or full day) and you will be stopping along the way in your tour. These tours are quite popular with tourists. If not horse riding, you can still visit the stable to meet Icelandic horses.

Book your Icelandic Horse Tours below

Iceland Food Tour (Cost: $105+ USD approx.)

To eat out every day in Iceland is expensive. But don’t miss out on their delicacies. Over 360 species of fish are found in Iceland – making it a sea-food lover’s paradise. Not only that the vegetables grown here are organic, so don’t miss out on those either.

Food tours in Iceland allow you to enjoy a hearty meal in the traditional Icelandic way. Include traditional lamp soup, dark rye bread (made by baking in hot geysers), dry fish, and many more items for your meal.

Icelandic beer is not so famous, but if you are a beer fan, you got to experience this yourself. There are microbreweries in Reykjavik. The alcohol content in these beers is less than 5%.

Food in Iceland Tours

Good to Know about Iceland Food tours

  • Food tours last 3-4 hours and operate in Reykjavik downtown areas (half-day Iceland Tour)
  • The official drinking age in Iceland is 20 years
  • USP – Food is expensive in Iceland and with these guided tours you get to sample quite a few delicacies with a good price

Book your Iceland Food Tour below

  • Icelandic Food Tour
  • Beer Tour in Reykjavik 

Iceland Photo Tours (Cost: $990+ USD approx.per group of 4)

It is a dream to capture the beauty of Iceland in a camera lens. Iceland Photo tours conduct one to multi-day photography tours and workshops across the country. Iceland photography tours are guided and led by a lead photographer and instructor.

Depending on the package you use, there are inclusions like pick up and drop off and hotel stays, etc. Only exclusions are food and drinks.

Waterfalls in Iceland Guided Tours

Good to know about Iceland Photo tours

  • We understand that this is not for everybody, especially due to the pricing. However, the price quoted is for each workshop and includes up to 4 people
  • USP – You get to capture the amazing landscape of Iceland and also explore like you normally would (2 for the price of 1)
  • Photography Iceland tours are conducted with an experienced photographer who not only knows the landscape of Iceland aesthetically but also from a safety stand-point
  • If interested in photography, Iceland Photo Tours conducts these tours exclusively
  • Browse and book your packages here

Game of Thrones Iceland Tour (Cost: $120+ approx)

Don’t hate me if I say I have not watched any Game of Thrones episodes. But if you have and you like it, then add this tour to your itinerary to Iceland. This is a full-day tour to the Þingvellir (Thingvellir) National Park.

I was definitely impressed by the National Park when I visited, as part of my Golden Circle tour Iceland. What is different in this tour is that you will explore the scene locations and sort of meet the “characters”. The tour lasts for 8 hours.

Game of Thrones Locations in Iceland: Guided tours

Good to know about Game of Thrones – Iceland Tours

  • Full-day tours from Reykjavik.
  • The main site of the tour is Þingvellir – Thingvellir National Park.
  • What is exclusively covered in the Game of Thrones are the filming locations
  • Book your Game of Thrones Iceland Tour here

Iceland Whale Watching Tour (Cost: $80+ approx)

Iceland’s coast is a great place to see nature and that includes whale watching. Skjálfandi Bay is known for its rich wildlife, including numerous types, shapes, and sizes of the whale. 

In this whale watching tour, you will climb aboard a traditional Icelandic oak boat and experience a traditional whale watching tour from Europe’s whale watching capital at Húsavík. You will see acrobatic humpback whales and giant blue whales.

This is wild nature and therefore unpredictable, but chances of seeing whales in their natural environment is very high almost 97- 99%. After whale watching, you will sail back to Húsavík harbor and enjoy the stunning scenery with a cup of hot chocolate and a traditional Icelandic kleina (twisted donut). 

RECOMMENDED TOUR > 3 Hour Whale Watching tour from Husavik 

Iceland Multi-day Tours (Cost: $450 – $2000 approx)

All the tours listed above are one day or half-day Iceland tours. Many tour companies in Iceland offer a combination of these tours along with accommodation as a “multi-day” tour. They range from a minimum of 2 days to a maximum of 8-12 days or nights stay (with an option to explore Greenland as well)

Multi-day tours in Iceland

Why choose Iceland Multi-day Tours?

  • Don’t worry about pick up and drop off every day
  • Well planned and guided tours, with safety and comfort in mind
  • Better value for money
  • Hotels and breakfast meals are provided
  • In some tours, local flights are included in the price
  • You can also visit Greenland – another country – as part of the multi-day Iceland tour
  • Most of the tour options highlighted below are small group tours

RECOMMENDED TOUR > We highly recommended this 6-day tour of Iceland . This tour takes you from Reykjavik to the Golden Circle route and the south coast (with all the stunning waterfalls) one day 1. Followed by the Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon  and Vik – the southern tip of Iceland.

Day 3 is exploring the east Fjords, where you will be road-tripping the coastlines and hiking to see the Hengifoss waterfalls.

Day 4 is exploring everything up north of Iceland. Driving through the wilderness and reaching Akureyri in the North. After exploring the stunning landscape and waterfalls, soak in the hot pools of Myvatn Nature Baths. 

Day 5 is all about adventure – whale watching tours at Dalvik, enjoy a team BBQ at the sea, drive through a fishing village, and stop at the Trollaskagi peninsula. The final day, explore the western part of Iceland. Hike up the Grabrok crater, explore the Deildartunguhver hot spring, Barnafoss and Hraunfossar waterfalls, and the historic site of Reykholt, before arriving in Reykjavik in the evening. BOOK THIS 6 DAY TOUR OF ICELAND. 

Book Iceland Multi-day Tours below

2-Day – Snæfellsnes Tour 

5-Day Tour – Snaefellsnes, South Coast, and Northern Lights

  • 6 Day Tour -Iceland 6-Day Ring Road Adventure

Iceland Greenland Tours (Cost: $1850 – $2500 approx)

By now, you must be thrilled about all that Iceland has to offer. Whether Iceland is your final destination or a stop-over to other European cities, these tours won’t disappoint you. If you are looking to visit a different country from Iceland, then consider exploring Greenland. There are multiple options for tours to Greenland from Iceland.

Best guided tours in Iceland

Good to know about Iceland Greenland Tours

  • From Reykjavik, you can catch a domestic flight to Greenland
  • Reykjavik to Ilulissat, West Greenland is 2 hours duration
  • Greenland tours can be undertaken as a standalone or as an add-on to 3-12 day Iceland multi-day tour
  • If you require a Schengen visa to travel to Iceland, then remember the same visa is NOT applicable for Greenland. You will have to apply for a visitor visa from the Danish embassy from your country of residence, before arriving in Greenland (no visa on arrival). Find about Schengen Visa here
  • Guide to Iceland conducts tours to Greenland from Iceland. Check it out here

Best Iceland Tour Companies for Guided Tours

Tourism is booming in Iceland and there is no shortage of tour companies here. By now you would have realized that the landscape of Iceland is beautiful yet unpredictable.

The tour companies are licensed to take you from point A to B and assist you in exploring Iceland safely and comfortably. In downtown Reykjavik, you will find a lot of tour agencies, in case you need any help or have to swap or cancel any trip.

The very best guided tours of Iceland handpicked to suit every traveler needs. Whether you like adventure tours or city walking tour, we got you covered.

In my experience, they have been very accommodating with any situation. Iceland Tourist board offices are located in Reykjavik as well for assistance. I have added a tourist map in the next section of this article. Feel free to take a screenshot or save it, for when you travel to Iceland.

Here is a list of top 6 Iceland Tour Companies

Reykjavik Sightseeing, Reykjavik Excursions, Iceland Tours, Arctic Adventures, Guide to Iceland, Grayline.

  • I have personally experienced Reykjavik Sightseeing tours and would highly recommend their team of hard-working professionals
  • Very prompt in responding to your queries. Well priced and variety of packages are available (close to 40 tours)
  • I enjoyed their Northern Lights tour – love how they provided us with tripods and took our pictures!
  • Free Wifi and USB ports available inside the bus
  • Website:  Reykjavik Sightseeing
  • USP – Reykjavik Excursions is easily located in the Reykjavík–Keflavík Airport (Fly Bus).
  • You can book your airport and Blue Lagoon transfers with them. (For Blue Lagoon, you still have to book a package online, this is just a transfer)
  • Website: Reykjavik Excursions
  • USP – Ideal tour operator for Iceland multi-day tours
  • Their website allows you to reserve a tour with 20% deposit
  • Iceland Tourism packages with multi-day options come with a free whale-watching tour
  • Website: Iceland Tours
  • USP – Ideal for all of your Iceland Adventure Tours like volcano tours, ice caving, glacier hiking, and snowmobile tours.
  • They offer day tours as well as multi-day tours
  • Iceland Adventures offer small group tours or private tours
  • Website: Arctic Adventures
  • Guided day tours and options for multi-days in Iceland
  • USP – They offer guided tours to Greenland
  • Website: Guide to Iceland
  • Guided day tours are offered
  • USP – Games of Thrones tour is offered
  • High on accessible tourism in Iceland, also one of the oldest tour companies in Iceland
  • Website: GrayLine

Iceland Attractions Map for Iceland Tours Offered

A tourist map is always handy. This map included here is just to give you a general sense of where tourist attractions in Iceland are located (direction wise). When you arrive in Reykjavik, you are in the South-western part of Iceland. Find a pinned and free downloadable tourist map of Iceland here

best guided tours iceland

Start booking – Best Guided Tours of Iceland

Who should take Iceland guided tours?

  • Anyone, as the group tours are not intrusive at all
  • Visitors on a stopover (or layover) in Iceland
  • Short trip itineraries – You can make use of your limited time in Iceland, by maximizing on sightseeing rather than parking fees or GPS

Important things to remember for Iceland Tours

  • It is a good idea to book online ahead of time for most tours, as they get sold out.
  • If you book from the same tour operator or book multiple tours, you will receive some discounts.
  • Don’t print vouchers. As long as you have your email or provide your full name, you are good (they think of the environment first)
  • Tipping is optional (most hosts don’t expect a tip. They do like online reviews)
  • Other than the guided tours inside ice caves and lava tunnels, the natural sightseeing spots like the black sand beaches or waterfalls and geysers are not guarded, so please use your judgment and caution when accessing them.
  • As always wear the right clothing and respect nature.
  • Wear your seat belts when you are on the bus. It is mandatory.
  • Time – Be cognizant of time. The weather changes a lot here and is unpredictable and the tours are weather dependent. If there is a storm in the evening, a late morning or afternoon tour may be canceled. In the event, tours are canceled, money is refunded.

We highly recommend Iceland tours for exploring the beautiful natural wonders. The landscape and weather of Iceland change a lot and it can be quite unpredictable. Traveling with a guide and in a well-equipped vehicle will ensure your trip is safe and you see the BEST of what Iceland has to offer.

best guided tours iceland

Additional Reading

  • Iceland Itinerary – How to spend 3 days in Iceland, an Iceland Itinerary  
  • Iceland Travel Tips to plan your trip – get all the travel tips for Iceland
  • Iceland in October – Get the scoop on the best time to visit Iceland
  • Winter Tours in Iceland – Get the 10 best Iceland Winter Tours
  • Reyjkavik Budget Guide – Find all the free things to do in Reykjavik

Essential Europe Guides

  • Europe Trip Planning –  If this is your first time to Europe, get all the planning tools here
  • Europe one week itinerary samples – 27 European Itinerary samples to craft your own
  • Europe winter destinations – Top places to visit in Europe 
  • Best Winter Boots for Europe – Our top picks for winter boots
  • Winter tours in Europe – Must do Europe winter tours

Pin – Best Iceland Tours for any time of year: Best Guided Tours of Iceland

Best Iceland tour adventures for all seasons - Iceland tours winter with aurora borealis, Northern lights, Iceland ice caves, Iceland tours summer, hot springs and bucket list travel destinations and more.

Mayuri is the founder & editor of ToSomePlaceNew. An Indian-Canadian globetrotter, she has traveled to over 100 cities and 35+ countries. Mayuri has a graduate degree in History and is an MBA. She loves traveling the world, capturing historical nuances, and discussing that over a cup of coffee with her husband, Salil. She currently resides in Edmonton, Canada, and plots travel plans to Europe, the Americas, and beyond. 

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23 Comments

Wow what an incredible list of suggestions. I have always wanted to go to Iceland and knew there would be a lot to see, but I didn’t know there was quite so much to do. Personally, I’d love to do the northern lights and lava cave tours most of all. I really hope I get to visit there soon! 🙂 My folks are planning a trip there soon so I’ll send them this link.

Thanks so much! Hope they enjoy this guide. Happy Planning

SUCH an informative guide! We only had time for a golden circle tour but after reading this and looking at your stunning photos there is so much more tours I wish we had time for! I’m definitely a snow baby not a sun baby and prefer the cold, so the tour of Iceland and Greenland sounds like my dream trip, appreciate the suggestion!

Would love to visit Iceland. Glad to hear that it is possible with any budget because I always thought it was quite expensive. The guided tours also sound great. I’m not usually all that keen on tours but I think that is one place where it would be quite beneficial.

Awesome info. While I’m not sure how soon it will be that I visit Iceland, I’ve got it in my head that I’ll self-guide 90% and do guided day trips. This is an incredible guide to the options!! I’m sure so many people have asked these questions… with the tourism industry what it is in Iceland, the options are overwhelming!

Wow ! You really have the scoop on all the tours to take. Love that you put the prices too with the explanation. I am not going to Iceland for now but this is surely being bookmarked for my future Iceland trip. Thanks!

Thanks so much for your kind words

I like the tourist map. It inspires me to travel there as I have not been there. Thanks for the tips.

Iceland looks like a wonderland! I’ve always wanted to try and see the Northern Lights. I didn’t even think to book a tour instead of doing it on my own. Much easier that way. Thanks for the info!

We preferred driving during out trip as it just allowed us more flexibility to do what we wanted on our own schedule – but did book one tour that would take us caving and snowmobiling. There were definitely some moments when driving that were challenging (since we went in February). Definitely reccommend guided tours for those who haven’t experienced harsh driving conditions.

Wow, there are so many great options for doing tours in Iceland! I would really love to visit Iceland but the thing that always stopped me for booking that trip was that I would have to rent a car and that’s always a pain. With all these great tour options, I could easily do a couple day stopover in Iceland and have it be much easier! I think my first choice would be the Ice Cave Tours, but the horseback riding and Northern Lights tours look great too!

Yay! Now you know – tours are a great way to explore this scenic country <3 hope you visit soon

Iceland in s in top of my bucket list and every team I see the pics or read anything about it ..I want to visit immediately.thanks for sharing the guided tour info.i am sure it will be very useful

I didn’t do any guided tours while I was there this year, but I definitely think they would be great for getting to spots that are too difficult or just off-limits for lone travelers. Great list!

Tours can also be a great way to meet people if you’re travelling by yourself. The best tour I went on in Iceland was a horseback riding adventure through the black sand beaches. One I would love to do is the Northern Lights tour!

I totally agree! Thanks for your comment Olivia

Very comprehensive post, I love how you have covered every area and tourist attraction on the island. I have noticed so many people recently travelling to Iceland and I’m loving all the photos. I would love to visit but its a bit of a hike from Australia! Maybe one day!

Thanks so much!

Iceland looks so beautiful! What a comprehensive list of amazing looking tours, I’ll definitely come back to this when I visit Iceland one day.

Thanks so much! Glad you enjoyed the post

Love all your photos & suggestions! Thanks for sharing. Pinned for my future use. 🙂

Excellent suggestions and the perfect info for planning a trip to Iceland ❤️❤️

Amazing article! Really very informative and helping writing for the first time visitor to Iceland like me..this is like a scoop of information..I enjoyed reading this article and hope ill soon enjoy my journey too, thanks for great guidance

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The icy crust of the glacier at Skaftafell.

Skaftafell Glacier Hiking Tour on Vatnajokull

Woman in yellow coat at the Vatnajokull ice cave

Best Ice Cave Tour in Vatnajokull Glacier Starting from Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon

On the Full Day Golden Circle Tour you will have numerous opportunities of seeing the geyser Strokkur erupt.

Small-Group Golden Circle Tour with a Visit to an Ice Cream Farm and Transfer from Reykjavik

Expect to see seals lounging on the shores of Ytri-Tunga on the Snæfellsnes Peninsula.

Small Group Tour of Snaefellsnes National Park with Transfer from Reykjavik

Kirkjufellsfoss waterfall trickles in the foreground as the sun sets

Small Group Tour of Snaefellsnes Peninsula with Transfer from Reykjavik

Glacier Hiking Tour on Solheimajokull

Glacier Hiking Tour on Solheimajokull

The Golden Circle & the Blue Lagoon Tour with Transfer from Reykjavik

The Golden Circle & the Blue Lagoon Tour with Transfer from Reykjavik

Small Group Sightseeing Tour of the Golden Circle & Kerid Volcanic Crater

Small Group Sightseeing Tour of the Golden Circle & Kerid Volcanic Crater

Snorkeling Tour Between Continents in Silfra with Free Underwater Photos & Snacks

Snorkeling Tour Between Continents in Silfra with Free Underwater Photos & Snacks

Witnessing the inside of an ice cave is an otherworldly and once in a lifetime opportunity.

Ice Caving Super Jeep Tour of Katla with Transfer from Vik

A group of people gearing up for a glacier hike in Iceland

Glacier Hiking Tour in Skaftafell

South Coast Minibus Tour with Glacier Hike & Transfer from Reykjavik

South Coast Minibus Tour with Glacier Hike & Transfer from Reykjavik

The gorgeous Diamond Beach on Iceland's South Coast is a sight not to be missed

Outstanding 2 Day Tour of Iceland's South Coast with Glacier Hiking & Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon

Guides will show you the wonders of the Ice Tunnel.

Into the Glacier Ice Tunnel Tour in Langjokull from Base Camp

How often do you normally get to venture inside of a glacier?

3-Day Northern Lights Tour of Iceland’s Golden Circle & South Coast with Ice Caving & Glacier Hiking

Incredible 4 Hour Ice Climbing & Glacier Hiking Tour on Vatnajokull with Transfer from Skaftafell

Incredible 4 Hour Ice Climbing & Glacier Hiking Tour on Vatnajokull with Transfer from Skaftafell

An ice caver marvels over the colors of Skaftafell glacier.

Skaftafell Ice Cave Tour in a Small Group Including Glacier Equipment

The northern lights over Jokusarlon glacier lagoon.

8-Day Guided Northern Lights Winter Tour of the Complete Ring Road of Iceland

Only those fortunate enough to visit Iceland in winter will have the chance to explore an ice cave.

2 Day Ice Cave Tour with South Coast Waterfalls & Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon

Snorkelling couple explores the bottom of the shallow end of the Silfra fissure.

Golden Circle & Snorkelling in Silfra with Free Underwater Photos

Stalagmites in the Víðgelmir lava cave, shining in the dim touch light.

Excellent 2 Day West Coast Tour of Snaefellsnes Peninsula with Lava Caving in Vidgelmir

Excellent 4 Hour Ice Climbing & Glacier Hiking Adventure on Solheimajokull

Excellent 4 Hour Ice Climbing & Glacier Hiking Adventure on Solheimajokull

Going into an ice cave is one of the most memorable experiences available to those visiting Iceland.

Small Group 6-Day Northern Lights Winter Tour of the Complete Ring Road of Iceland

2 Day Northern Lights & Ice Cave Tour with Glacier Hiking & Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon

2 Day Northern Lights & Ice Cave Tour with Glacier Hiking & Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon

Explore an unequalled wealth of tours and packages

Self Drive Tours in Iceland

Tour calendar, vacation packages in iceland, nature tours in iceland, adventure tours in iceland, cheap bus tours in iceland, top tour destinations in iceland, verified customer reviews.

Read first-hand reviews by customers from across the world

Chloe Standing

Chloe Standing

Really good trip! The guide was really friendly and funny! It was all very straight forward and told us a lot of facts and intending things about Iceland! Would definitely reccomend!

Really great trip! Our guide was really knowledgable, friendly .. and funny!! I can’t remember his name exactly but I believe it was Kasper? There was a slight issue with the bus and we had to change it, but I thought it was really good that he was thinking about all the people on board! Very professional! He told us about keeping safe on the glacier & the black sand beach! I did really feel safe with this tour guide! Thank you so much! He got us back at our hotel for about 7 so we had plenty of time to get some food ready for the northern lights trip! Would definitely recommend!

Max G

I didn’t want the tour to end. The guide Oihane was fantastic, friendly and informative. The sights we saw were stunning, the hotels were cozy with excellent breakfasts. Loved it.

Eva

We had a great time on this tour with our guide Monika! She taught us how to correctly pronounce Eyjafjallajökull and gave us a lot of information about the area we were visiting. She had a very nice music playlist which fit to what we were visiting and stories she told us. Since we were only 7 people on this tour she showed us one more waterfall which was not on the itinerary. My boyfriend was travelling with crutches and Nicetravel called to make sure he was fine and we were comfortable on the tour. Monika took great care of us! She managed to avoid big groups so we could enjoy Skogafoss and Seljalandsfoss without masses of people and made sure we saw the waterfalls with the last sunlight of the day which was absolutely breathtaking. Thank you for everything and this beautiful experience!

Small Group Tours in Iceland

Small group tours in Iceland offer an intimate and immersive alternative to regular bus tours, with limited participants, usually ranging from a handful to 19 travelers. These tours provide distinct advantages that set them apart from their larger counterparts.

For example, this small group tour of the Golden Circle with transfer from Reykjavik accommodates booking for up to 19 participants. 

One of the primary benefits of small group tours is the personalized experience they offer. With fewer participants, guides can provide more detailed insights, answer questions thoroughly, and tailor the itinerary to the group's interests. 

Flexibility is another key advantage. Small groups allow for more flexibility and adaptability to changing weather conditions. This adaptability increases the chances of uncovering Iceland's hidden gems and capturing unique moments.

In addition, these small group tours can access places that larger buses cannot reach due to Iceland's rugged terrain and narrow roads. This exclusivity allows travelers to explore remote and unspoiled landscapes without the crowds.

Lastly, small group sizes translate into more efficient logistics, resulting in shorter waiting times and more time spent exploring Iceland's wonders. With knowledgeable guides, meaningful interactions, and access to hidden treasures, small group tours offer an exceptional way to discover Iceland's beautiful attractions and rich culture.

Frequently asked questions

What is a small group tour in iceland, what are the best small group tours in iceland, what are the cheapest small group tours in iceland, are small group tours in iceland worth it, what is the average group size of a small group tour in iceland, what types of small group tours are available in iceland, what vehicles are used for small group tours in iceland, how much does a small group day tour in iceland cost, are small group tours more expensive than regular bus tours in iceland, how long is the average small group tour in iceland, are small group tours suitable for solo travelers, are small group tours in iceland available year-round, do small group tours in iceland offer hotel pick-up, is lunch included with small group tours in iceland.

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Top things to do in Iceland

Book your complete trip with the best companies only

Explore an Ice Cave

Explore an Ice Cave

Find the Northern Lights

Find the Northern Lights

Visit the Blue Lagoon

Visit the Blue Lagoon

Go on a Road Trip

Go on a Road Trip

Do the Golden Circle

Do the Golden Circle

See the Glacier Lagoon

See the Glacier Lagoon

Explore Reykjavik

Explore Reykjavik

South Coast Tours

South Coast Tours

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  1. The 10 Best Guided Tours in Iceland

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  2. 15 best places to visit in Iceland

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  3. The Best Guided Tours of Iceland for All Seasons

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  4. The Best Guided Tours of Iceland for All Seasons

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  5. The Best Guided Tours of Iceland for All Seasons

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  6. The Best Iceland Guided Hiking Tours

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COMMENTS

  1. 17 Best Iceland Tours of 2024: Northern Lights & More

    BusTravel Iceland - South Coast Waterfalls, Glacier & Black Sand Beach Tour. Price: Adults from 13,990 króna (about $103); kids from 6,995 króna (about $52) Duration: 10 hours. This daylong ...

  2. 10 Best Fully Guided Tours in Iceland 2024/2025

    Fully Guided Tours & Trips in Iceland. Find the right fully guided tour for you in Iceland. There are 219 trips to choose from, that range from one day in length, up to 23 days. The month with the most departures is August, making it the most popular time to visit Iceland.

  3. Best Guided & Escorted Tours in Iceland

    Iceland offers many excellent guided tours because of the country's beautiful natural attractions and rich culture. The most popular guided tour in Iceland you can book is the ice cave tour in Vatnajokull from Jokulsarlon glacier lagoon. The experience has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 from more than 1,400 travelers.

  4. Best Iceland Tours & Vacations 2024/2025

    Calling all nature lovers, adventure seekers and fearless travelers. Iceland may be cold, but that's the point—you'll get to see all the glaciers, geysers and geothermal wonders you can handle. Discover a land of natural color: hues of azure at the Blue Lagoon and the icy Jokulsarlon, shades of green on the rolling hills framing Skogafoss and the striking black sand beaches that hug the ...

  5. The Top 10 Best Tours in Iceland: Popular and Unique Excursions

    9. Lake Myvatn and North Iceland Tours. If you're staying longer in Iceland or your stay is short, but you like to visit more hidden places, a good option is to head to North Iceland. Not only is the north a little less busy than the south and west, but it boasts a vast range of spectacular natural sights to enjoy.

  6. The Best Guided Tours of Iceland for All Seasons

    6 - 7 Day Guided Tours of Iceland. 1. Northern Lights and Ice Caves (7 days) Visiting Iceland in winter lets you experience some of nature's most spectacular wonders, including the Northern Lights. It's also the time of year in Iceland when it safest to actually go inside the ice caves.

  7. 13 Absolute Best Iceland Tours & Day Trips (All Seasons)

    TIP: We list the most popular tours in Iceland first, so if you are short on time, start with the top of this list and you'll be sure to cover all the must-sees. These are the best Iceland tours: 1. Golden Circle. Golden Circle is the no. 1 must-see place in Iceland. Whether you are visiting for a day or for two weeks, no trip to Iceland would be complete without visiting the Golden Circle.

  8. 15 best tours of Iceland

    Best things to do in Iceland. Reykjavik (Getty Images) 4. Reykjavik and Keflavik: Auroras, whales and the Blue Lagoon, Artisan Travel. Take a four-night trip to enjoy the highlights of Iceland ...

  9. Escorted Tours and Guided Tours in Iceland

    Discover the very best of Iceland with expert local guides. Check out our selection of escorted tours and guided tours. From sightseeing tours of the most popular Icelandic landmarks, to exploring the remote highlands, we offer a fantastic range of guided group tours escorted by the best guides in Iceland. Go on a superb guided tour in Iceland.

  10. Best Tours & Vacation Packages in Iceland

    The best 5-day tour package in Iceland is this 5-day winter package in Iceland with northern lights and ice cave tours. If you prefer to visit during the summer, then this amazing 5-day summer vacation package in Iceland is the most popular tour you can choose, with visits to Jokulsarlon glacier lagoon and the Golden Circle.

  11. The 7 Best Tour Companies in Iceland

    3. Arctic Adventures. The award-winning Arctic Adventures is one of the biggest tour companies in Iceland, offering a huge range of one-day and multi-day tours. They also offer self-driving tours, where they provide you with a rental car, pre-booked accommodation, a detailed itinerary, and the option to join some guided day tours along the way.

  12. Iceland Escorted tours and Guided trips

    The top guided and escorted tours to Iceland. Choose from 117 escorted and guided tours through Iceland backed by 80 customer reviews. Discovering Iceland via a guided tour is a safe and very informative as the guide often offer a lot of local insight. If you are on a budget you may wish to check our guided group tours to Iceland as they are ...

  13. Expert Guided Tours in Iceland

    Iceland's Golden Circle Guided Tours. The Golden Circle is a driving route that totals more than 300 km (186 mi) and is home to some of the country's most well-known tourist attractions, including Thingvellir National Park and Gullfoss Waterfall, as well as The Great Geysir. Arctic Adventures offers a range of tours to the Golden Circle ...

  14. 20 Best Tours In Iceland You Shouldn't Miss

    This is one of the best Ring Road tours in Iceland because it hits a lot of sights that other tours miss. Notable places you visit include: Thingvellir National Park, Geysir, Gullfoss Waterfall, Vik, Skaftafell, Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon, the East Fjords, Dettifoss Waterfall, Myvatn, and so much more. Book Now: Iceland 6-Day Ring Road Adventure.

  15. 10 Best Iceland Tours & Trips 2024/2025

    Español: Circuitos y viajes por Islandia 2024/2025. Nederlands: Ijsland Rondreizen 2024/2025. Browse the best tours in Iceland with 2,769 reviews visiting places like Reykjavik and Thingvellir National Park. All Major Brands.

  16. Self Drive and Guided Tours in Iceland

    Wildlife (4) Farm theme (2) Ski-vacation (25) Open Monday - Thursday. from 9 AM to 4 PM. Open Friday from 9 AM to 2 PM. Explore Iceland on a self-drive - or guided tour. Summer or winter, short break or ultimate road trip!

  17. Iceland Escorted Tours, Trip Packages, and Vacations

    Our first guided tour. Highly recommend a guided tour for countries as diverse as Iceland, at least your first trip there. ... Best vacation ever. Iceland is amazing!!!! Elvira Pimienta Reviewed on 08/10/2023 Trip Rating: The tour was well organized and well paced. The on site tour guide was very knowledgeable and personable. The presenters at ...

  18. 10 Best Iceland Small Group Tours & Trips 2024/2025

    4. Polar. 4. Sailing. 1. 5. Discover Iceland with the best small group tours powered by top tour operators & travel companies. Explore new destinations at your pace accompanied by like-minded travelers. All Major Brands.

  19. The Best Tours & Vacation Packages of 2024 in Iceland

    Install Iceland's biggest travel app. Download Iceland's biggest travel marketplace to your phone to manage your entire trip in one place. The best trips to Iceland in 2024 are right here, along with the best prices. Book tours and accommodation throughout Iceland, Reykjavik, and more all in one place.

  20. Best Guided Tours of Iceland

    Gullfoss remains a spectacular site with water cascading more than 100 feet down. If you choose Deluxe Iceland, you can enjoy family-suited adventures like horseback riding, snorkeling in Silfra fissure between two continents, volcano hikes, and glacier walking, among others. All these are available on different days, perfect for a one-week ...

  21. How To See The Best Of Iceland On A Budget

    Hotel accommodation, meals, and souvenirs will all cost significantly more than most travelers might expect. In fact, the cost of living comparison site Numbeo currently lists Iceland as 6.9% more ...

  22. Best Guided Hiking & Trekking Tours

    Best range of mountain trekking & hiking tours in Iceland. Guided tours available. Immerse yourself in Icelandic nature. Book now. Book your tours. Get a vacation. Rent a car. ... The best single-day hiking tour in Iceland is a 3.5-hour glacier hiking tour on the Vatnajokull Glacier. The tour has an average rating of 4.8 stars out of 5 from ...

  23. Best Iceland Guided Tours for any Budget or Season

    Iceland Photo Tours (Cost: $990+ USD approx.per group of 4) It is a dream to capture the beauty of Iceland in a camera lens. Iceland Photo tours conduct one to multi-day photography tours and workshops across the country. Iceland photography tours are guided and led by a lead photographer and instructor.

  24. Best Small Group Tours in Iceland

    A small group tour in Iceland is a guided tour experience that typically includes 10 to 12 participants, allowing for a more intimate experience, and you'll get the opportunity to ask your guide as many questions as you want during the tour. ... Some of the best small group tours in Iceland include this tour of Snaefellsnes National Park from ...