Protect Your Trip »

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

Getty Images

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.

Check prices & availability on:

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.

Check availability on:

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

If you make a purchase from our site, we may earn a commission. This does not affect the quality or independence of our editorial content.

You May Also Like

Alaska cruise cost.

Gwen Pratesi March 15, 2024

best tours of iceland

Spooky Charleston Ghost Tours

Holly Johnson March 15, 2024

best tours of iceland

The Best Beach Wagons

Gwen Pratesi and Amanda Norcross March 13, 2024

best tours of iceland

Best New Orleans Cemetery Tours

Holly Johnson and Ann Henson March 13, 2024

best tours of iceland

The Best Whale Watching Tours in Maui

Lyn Mettler March 11, 2024

best tours of iceland

The Best Luggage Sets

Erin Evans , Rachael Hood and Amanda Norcross March 11, 2024

best tours of iceland

19 Best Ireland Tours

John Rodwan March 8, 2024

best tours of iceland

The Top Family Resorts in the Bahamas

Sharael Kolberg March 8, 2024

best tours of iceland

The Top Everglades Airboat & Swamp Tours

Holly Johnson and Ann Henson March 7, 2024

best tours of iceland

Top Luxury Alaska Cruises

Gwen Pratesi March 7, 2024

best tours of iceland

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.

Our Iceland trips

Let's create an exclusive trip for your group.

Iceland tour reviews

Filter by rating

Northern Lights Escape

Iceland's Classic Northern Lights

Why 2024 is the best year to see the northern lights

How the Icelandic hot dog became an international icon 

Iceland’s Folklore: 4 mythical creatures that make the scenery come alive

Top 12 things to do in Iceland

6 of the best hikes in Iceland

10 ways to get closer to nature with Intrepid  

In sickness and in health: How I ended up getting married on an Intrepid Iceland trip 

Iceland or Greenland? Which country should be next on your travel list? 

We also travel to

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

THE 10 BEST Iceland Tours & Excursions

Iceland tours.

  • Ports of Call Tours
  • Sightseeing Tours
  • Walking Tours
  • Up to 1 hour
  • 1 to 4 hours
  • 4 hours to 1 day
  • 5.0 of 5 bubbles
  • 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
  • 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
  • 2.0 of 5 bubbles & up
  • Likely to Sell Out
  • Special Offers
  • The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

best tours of iceland

1. #1 Northern Lights Tour In Iceland from Reykjavik with PRO photos

best tours of iceland

2. Golden Circle, Blue Lagoon Including Admission & Kerid Volcanic Crater

best tours of iceland

3. Reykjavik Food Walk - Local Foodie Adventure in Iceland

best tours of iceland

4. Iceland South Coast Full Day Small-Group Tour from Reykjavik

best tours of iceland

5. The Original Classic Whale Watching from Reykjavik

best tours of iceland

6. Silfra: Snorkeling Between Tectonic Plates - meet on location

best tours of iceland

7. Dynjandi Waterfall & Iceland Farm Visit Tour

best tours of iceland

8. Natural Ice Cave and Snowmobile Adventure from Reykjavík

best tours of iceland

9. 3,5-Hour Sightseeing Tour To Dynjandi Waterfall

best tours of iceland

10. Northern Lights Enchanting: Small Group, Hot Cocoa & free Photos

best tours of iceland

11. Golden Circle and Secret Lagoon Full Day Tour from Reykjavik by Minibus

best tours of iceland

12. Lake Myvatn, Hot-Springs & Godafoss Waterfall Tour from Akureyri

best tours of iceland

13. Big Whales & Puffins RIB boat tour from Húsavík

best tours of iceland

14. Glacier Hike, South Coast Waterfalls & Black Sand Beach

best tours of iceland

15. Golden Circle Classic Day Trip from Reykjavik

best tours of iceland

16. Golden Circle, Secret Lagoon and Kerid Crater Tour from Reykjavik

best tours of iceland

17. Reykjavik Food Lovers Tour - Icelandic Traditional Food

best tours of iceland

18. Golden Circle Full Day Tour from Reykjavik by Minibus

best tours of iceland

19. Ice Cave and Glacier walk into blue glacier canyon

best tours of iceland

20. South Iceland Glaciers, Waterfalls and Black Sand Beach Day Tour from Reykjavik

best tours of iceland

21. Small-Group Golden Circle Tour and Secret Lagoon Visit from Reykjavik

best tours of iceland

22. Puffin and Volcano Boat Tour

best tours of iceland

23. 2hr Twin Peaks ATV Adventure from Reykjavik

best tours of iceland

24. Northern Lights Bus Tour from Reykjavik

best tours of iceland

25. Golden Circle, Volcano Crater & Blue Lagoon Small Group Tour

best tours of iceland

26. Golden Circle & Glacier Snowmobiling Day Trip from Reykjavik

best tours of iceland

27. Northern Lights Cruise from Downtown Reykjavik

best tours of iceland

28. Half-Day Combo Tour to Goðafoss, Laufas and The Christmas House

best tours of iceland

29. Ice Cave Tour in the National Park of Vatnajökull

best tours of iceland

30. The Blue Lagoon Comfort Package Including Transfers

What travelers are saying.

Roxanne D

Nomadic Matt's Travel Site

Travel Better, Cheaper, Longer

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.

Related Posts

Icelandic waterfall with green landscape and sunset

Get my best stuff sent straight to you!

Pin it on pinterest.

  • Skip to right header navigation
  • Skip to main content
  • Skip to secondary navigation
  • Skip to primary sidebar

Iceland Trippers Logo

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

Reader Interactions

Leave a reply cancel reply.

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

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!

If you found this post helpful, don’t forget to bookmark it and share it with your friends. Are you on Pinterest? Pin these images!

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

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

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.

Top Tours in Iceland, Europe

Iceland tours.

  • Ports of Call Tours
  • Sightseeing Tours
  • Walking Tours
  • Up to 1 hour
  • 1 to 4 hours
  • 4 hours to 1 day
  • 5.0 of 5 bubbles
  • 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
  • 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
  • 2.0 of 5 bubbles & up
  • Likely to Sell Out
  • Special Offers
  • The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

best tours of iceland

1. #1 Northern Lights Tour In Iceland from Reykjavik with PRO photos

best tours of iceland

2. Golden Circle, Blue Lagoon Including Admission & Kerid Volcanic Crater

best tours of iceland

3. Reykjavik Food Walk - Local Foodie Adventure in Iceland

best tours of iceland

4. Iceland South Coast Full Day Small-Group Tour from Reykjavik

best tours of iceland

5. The Original Classic Whale Watching from Reykjavik

best tours of iceland

6. Silfra: Snorkeling Between Tectonic Plates - meet on location

best tours of iceland

7. Dynjandi Waterfall & Iceland Farm Visit Tour

best tours of iceland

8. 3,5-Hour Sightseeing Tour To Dynjandi Waterfall

best tours of iceland

9. Northern Lights Enchanting: Small Group, Hot Cocoa & free Photos

best tours of iceland

10. Volcanic Vistas & Puffin Paradise ATV Tour

best tours of iceland

11. Golden Circle and Secret Lagoon Full Day Tour from Reykjavik by Minibus

best tours of iceland

12. Lake Myvatn, Hot-Springs & Godafoss Waterfall Tour from Akureyri

best tours of iceland

13. Big Whales & Puffins RIB boat tour from Húsavík

best tours of iceland

14. Glacier Hike, South Coast Waterfalls & Black Sand Beach

best tours of iceland

15. Golden Circle Classic Day Trip from Reykjavik

best tours of iceland

16. Golden Circle, Secret Lagoon and Kerid Crater Tour from Reykjavik

best tours of iceland

17. Reykjavik Food Lovers Tour - Icelandic Traditional Food

best tours of iceland

18. Golden Circle Full Day Tour from Reykjavik by Minibus

best tours of iceland

19. Ice Cave and Glacier walk into blue glacier canyon

best tours of iceland

20. South Iceland Glaciers, Waterfalls and Black Sand Beach Day Tour from Reykjavik

best tours of iceland

21. Dog Sledding and Mushing Experience by Siberian Husky in Iceland

best tours of iceland

22. Small-Group Golden Circle Tour and Secret Lagoon Visit from Reykjavik

best tours of iceland

23. 2hr Twin Peaks ATV Adventure from Reykjavik

best tours of iceland

24. Northern Lights Bus Tour from Reykjavik

best tours of iceland

25. Golden Circle, Volcano Crater & Blue Lagoon Small Group Tour

best tours of iceland

26. Golden Circle & Glacier Snowmobiling Day Trip from Reykjavik

best tours of iceland

27. Northern Lights Cruise from Downtown Reykjavik

best tours of iceland

28. Half-Day Combo Tour to Goðafoss, Laufas and The Christmas House

best tours of iceland

29. Ice Cave Tour in the National Park of Vatnajökull

best tours of iceland

30. The Blue Lagoon Comfort Package Including Transfers

What travellers are saying.

Roxanne D

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!

Enjoyed this post? Why not share it!

There are 6 comments on this post

Please scroll to the end to leave a comment

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 🙂

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Let me know when there's a reply to my comment (just replies to your comment, no other e-mails, we promise!)

Subscribe to our monthly Newsletter where we share our latest travel news and tips. This also makes you eligible to enter our monthly giveaways!

We only ask for your e-mail so we can verify you are human and if requested notify you of a reply. To do this, we store your data as outlined in our privacy policy . Your e-mail will not be published or used for any other reason other than those outlined above.

Deals of the Week   Bucket List   Up to 50% OFF

Iceland Tours & Trips from Reykjavik

Find your perfect adventure! We have 184 tours of Iceland that start in Reykjavik, Iceland. The most popular month is August, and tour lengths range between 1 and 23 days.

184 Iceland tour packages from Reykjavik with 2,614 reviews

Iceland Discovery Tour

  • In-depth Cultural

Iceland Discovery

Incredible trip! Shame the itinerary is changing for 2020 as it’s cutting out my 2 favorite stays on the trip. Still..I’m not a tour person at all. I prefer off the beaten path, flexibility for unexpected adventures, etc. but Jónas provided all of this. He was the best!!!! As a avid single, female, I’ve realized done a lot of solo travel but there are many places I’d like to go that aren’t the best choice for a single, solo, female traveler. However, now that I’ve found f Intrepid Tours, the doors have opened and I am already looking at where to go next.

Best of Iceland Tour

Best of Iceland

Very good tour overall. It's probabily better consider 2 weeks for the tour.

Iceland Express Tour

  • Coach / Bus

Iceland Express

The tour was great! Our tour guide Jonas went above and beyond to make us feel welcomed, safe, and comfortable. I would recommend this tour to anyone who wants to have a quick glimpse of key spots in Iceland in a short time. We were also very lucky to get a wonderful group of fellow travelers. People matter!

Premium Iceland Tour

Premium Iceland

Best of Iceland: Golden Circle & Snæfellsnes Peninsula Tour

Best of Iceland: Golden Circle & Snæfellsnes Peninsula

8 Days Guided Iceland Circle Tour

  • Christmas & New Year

8 Days Guided Iceland Circle

Iceland is an incredible country to visit and the time we spent there was priceless. We had a technical problem: due to the weather the flight to Reykjavík was cancelled and postponed to the following day. We announced the travel agency and they provided a taxi in order th catch the tour. Instead to have a transportation from the company we had to pay an additional 300euros regardless was not our fault for the delay. Maybe you should consider such situation in your program. Another observation is about the guide. He was totally disinterested on our existence, totally unprepared to be a guide with knowledge, also a little bit impolite and rude.

8 Day Around Iceland Winter Minibus Tour Tour

  • Sightseeing

8 Day Around Iceland Winter Minibus Tour

It was amazing. Full of firsts and so many adventures -northern lights, glacier hike. Ice cave, lave cave, lava fields, geysers, Thermal springs, spa, sulfur fields, waterfalls. our guide John was awesome and our group was great. We started as strangers and left as friends (17 people, 8 day around Iceland.

8 Day Around Iceland Summer Minibus Tour Tour

8 Day Around Iceland Summer Minibus Tour

We had a wonderful tour with our guide Gylfi. He was very knowlegable about the geography of all the areas we visited and the history of Iceland. The timing of each day flowed very well with plenty of time for exploration and photos of each stop. The minibus was very comfortable. Gylfi's driving was very smooth. we got to know all the other fellow tourists on the bus as well. I would highly recommend Troll Tours and especially our guide Gylfi.

5 Day - Snaefellsnes, South Coast and Northern Lights Tour

  • Northern Lights

5 Day - Snaefellsnes, South Coast and Northern Lights

Overall very professional team. The most effiecient way to know that beutifull country. Hotels of Artic Adventures very neat and confy. Pitty when weather dont help. And refund will not cover your expectations. But despite this highly recomended.

6 Day - Around Iceland Adventure Tour

6 Day - Around Iceland Adventure

Beautiful country. Great tour. Informative guide. Fun people.

Iceland Escape Tour

Iceland Escape

It was a great time. Everything was easily followed and organized well. Only drawback was the weather, and not being able to see the northern lights during our time. All things considered, will definitely be going back to Iceland.

Iceland Discovery Tour

seamless, no glitches, hiccups or issues from booking entirely online...whenever i texted w questions, they got right back....an awesome value for my money... am planning next year already!!!! thank you for wonderful experience

Iceland Circle - 8 Days Tour

Iceland Circle - 8 Days

Everything was excellent,our tour guide, our tour driver, accommodation, timings and explained in details all the landmarks. We will be planning another our soon.

6 Day - Iceland Ring Road Small-Group Tour Tour

6 Day - Iceland Ring Road Small-Group Tour

It was great. I was in a small group of nice travellers. Guide was very nice and he even helped us to see northern lights! (Which is not included in the tour). We were on time everytime and i was in amazing places. I recomend it!

8 Day - Iceland Ring Road Tour Tour

  • Hiking & Trekking

8 Day - Iceland Ring Road Tour

I just returned home from the 8-day tour scheduled for a particular decade birthday I had. I cannot rave about this tour enough. Our guide, Siggi, was fantastic! He was very knowledgeable, super helpful, and funny as well. The airlines (not scheduled through TourRadar) lost my luggage and Siggi was extremely helpful in helping coordinate its pick up once it was located. All our accommodations were clean and very comfortable. I especially enjoyed The Wilderness Inn. The coach was comfortable and not crowded at all. The sites we saw were truly exceptional. Iceland is a stunning country with welcoming locals and pristine facilities for tourists. I highly recommend this incredible tour. Wonderful experience all around!

Reviews of Iceland Tours from Reykjavik

Good Itinerary and great guide. Overall a well organized and run trip. Enjoyed every bit of it.
I can't say enough good things about our Best of Iceland Tour. Gisli Anton Bjarnason was the best tour guide we've ever experienced! We thoroughly enjoyed our week!
It was very informative. The sites spectacular.

Tours starting from Reykjavik

  • Reykjavik to Reykjavik tours (164)
  • Reykjavik to Keflavik tours (6)
  • Reykjavik to Blue Lagoon tours (6)
  • Explorer from Reykjavik (152)
  • Family from Reykjavik (124)
  • Active from Reykjavik (42)
  • Northern Lights from Reykjavik (41)
  • Hiking & Trekking from Reykjavik (24)
  • Private from Reykjavik (22)
  • Coach / Bus from Reykjavik (19)
  • In-depth Cultural from Reykjavik (18)
  • Ocean Cruise from Reykjavik (8)
  • Self-Guided from Reykjavik (6)
  • Polar from Reykjavik (5)
  • 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 ab Reykjavik
  • Français: Circuits Islande au départ de Reykjavik
  • Español: Circuitos por Islandia desde Reikiavik
  • Nederlands: Ijsland Rondreizen die starten in Reykjavik

Day Tours in Iceland

Best Day Tours in Iceland

Select starting location

Select dates

Add travelers

Day Tours in Iceland

Refine the results by using the filters

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

The icy crust of the glacier at Skaftafell.

Skaftafell Glacier Hiking Tour on Vatnajokull

The silica mud at the Blue Lagoon is renown for its healing properties.

Quick Blue Lagoon Shuttle Bus Transfer from Reykjavik

A rainbow almost always arches over Gullfoss waterfall on bright summer days.

Golden Circle Small Group Minibus Tour with Transfer from Reykjavik

An amphibious boat cruises across the Jokulsarlon glacier lagoon.

Affordable 1-Hour Boat Tour of Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon

Kirkjufellsfoss waterfall trickles in the foreground as the sun sets

Small Group Tour of Snaefellsnes Peninsula with Transfer from Reykjavik

Northern Lights over the city pond in Reykjavík

Affordable 3 Hour Northern Lights Bus Tour with Transfer from Reykjavík

A view up to the mighty Vatnajökull glacier.

Top-rated Glacier Walk in Skaftafell on Vatnajökull glacier

You don't know relaxation until you've relaxed in the Blue Lagoon.

Affordable Blue Lagoon Transportation from Keflavik Airport

Jokulsarlon glacier lagoon is best explored on a Zodiac in summer.

1-Hour Zodiac Boat Tour of Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon

Inside the Volcano Thrihnukagigur Tour with Transfer from Reykjavik

Inside the Volcano Thrihnukagigur Tour with 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

Four species can be regularly seen on whale watching tours from Reykjavík.

The Reykjavik Whale Watching Tour

Drysuits keep you buoyant in the freshwater, meaning you will spend the tour floating at the surface.

Unforgettable Drysuit Snorkeling in Silfra with Underwater Photos & Transfer from Reykjavik

Waves lapping over icebergs at Diamond Beach during sundown.

South Coast Day Tour with Waterfalls & Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon with Transfer from Reykjavik

No one is safe from the splash zone of a Humpback Whale.

The Húsavík Whale Watching Tour

Glacier Hiking Tour on Solheimajokull

Glacier Hiking Tour on Solheimajokull

Explore the city of Reykjavík with a 24-Hour City Card.

24 Hour Reykjavik City Card with Entry to Museums, Galleries & Geothermal Pools

Þingvellir is home to the scenic Almannagjá gorge, the exposed North American tectonic plate.

Afternoon 6 Hour Golden Circle Tour to Gullfoss, Geysir & Thingvellir with Transfer from Reykjavik

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

The mighty Skógafoss waterfall is one of Iceland's most sought out natural attractions.

Small Group 10 Hour South Coast Tour with Waterfalls & Reynisfjara with Transfer from Reykjavik

A Snowmobiling day tour provides for an action-packed afternoon in Iceland.

Golden Circle ​& Snowmobiling Tour with Transfer from Reykjavik

Explore an unequalled wealth of tours and packages

Vacation Packages in Iceland

Self drive tours in iceland, tour calendar, 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

Rafael Fontana Domingues

Rafael Fontana Domingues

The guides were amazing and this tour is a must do in Iceland! I mean we walked on a glacier!

Mary Frances Lembo

Mary Frances Lembo

We had a flight that landed very early in the morning. Guidevto Iceland suggested transportation to Blue Lagoon and then on to Reykjavik. This was a excellent idea, as it was so nice to float around after a long flight, and the bus got us to Reykjavik when it was check in time at our hotel

Allison Molinaro

Allison Molinaro

Our guides were very knowledgable and we were able to watch a humpback whale! The boat was comfortable and there was room for all to see the whale. We appreciated the warm inside of the boat for the return to the port.

Gopal Bhagavatula

Gopal Bhagavatula

A great tour hitting some highlights in the 3 days we had. Special mention to Siggi from Troll Adventures who was knowledgeable and funny throughout.

Iceland, a land of stunning natural beauty and diverse landscapes, offers an array of exciting day tours that cater to all kinds of travelers. Whether you're an adventure seeker, a nature lover, or someone looking to immerse themselves in the local culture, Iceland's day tours provide unforgettable experiences.

From the majestic waterfalls and erupting geysers to the serene hot springs and rugged volcanic terrains, each tour is a journey through some of the most breathtaking sceneries in the world.

The variety of day tours available ensures that there's something for everyone. You can embark on a whale-watching adventure , experience the magic of the northern lights in the winter , or explore the unique geothermal areas that Iceland is famous for . For those who love history and culture, there are tours covering Iceland's rich Viking heritage and charming towns.

Adventure enthusiasts can indulge in hiking, glacier walks, or horseback riding through the scenic landscapes. The tours are designed to cater to different interests and fitness levels, making them inclusive and accessible.

What makes these day tours truly special is their combination of natural wonders with professional and friendly guidance. Tour operators in Iceland are known for their high safety standards and deep respect for the environment. They ensure that your experience is enjoyable and informative, offering insights into Iceland's unique geology, folklore, and traditions.

With these tours, you're not just visiting; you're connecting with the heart and soul of Iceland. So, whether you're seeking a thrilling outdoor adventure or a peaceful escape into nature , Iceland's day tours promise an experience you'll treasure for a lifetime.

Frequently asked questions

What is the best day tour in iceland, is it worth taking a day tour in iceland, what is the cheapest day tour in iceland, how long is the average day tour in iceland, what kind of day tours are available in iceland, do day tours in iceland offer hotel pick-up, is lunch included on day tours in iceland, which day tours in iceland are suitable for children, what is the best time of year to take a day tour in iceland, are there any day tours that focus on the northern lights in iceland, can day tours in iceland accommodate people with disabilities, what are the safety measures in place for day tours in iceland, do any day tours in iceland include visits to geothermal areas or hot springs, are there day tours available that focus on iceland's wildlife, such as whale watching, what should i wear or bring with me on a day tour in iceland, are there day tours that explore iceland's volcanic landscapes and lava fields, can i book a private or custom day tour in iceland, are there any cultural or historical day tours available in iceland, how can i book a day tour in iceland and what is the cancellation policy, are there any day tours that include hiking or other outdoor activities in iceland, do day tours in iceland operate during the winter months.

Link to appstore phone

Download Iceland’s biggest travel marketplace to your phone to manage your entire trip in one place

Scan this QR code with your phone camera and press the link that appears to add Iceland’s biggest travel marketplace into your pocket. Enter your phone number or email address to receive an SMS or email with the download link.

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

Travellers in Iceland's south

The Best Summer Tours in Iceland

  • Lára Borg Lárusdóttir
  • March 7, 2024

Share article

The Icelandic landscape is vastly diverse, showcasing natural contrasts in every area of the country. These diverse landscapes can be seen with variations, including Iceland’s glacial wonders, volcanic plains and lava fields, forests, rivers, cliffsides, and geothermal treasures. Therefore finding the best summer tours in Iceland can be done with ease.

Visiting Iceland in the summer months can be a vastly different experience from when visiting during the winter. Nonetheless, many tours can be experienced both during the summer and the winter, such as visiting the Golden Circle or bathing in the Blue Lagoon.

To fully appreciate the variations and contrasts that Icelandic nature has to offer, we recommend that visitors embark on one or more of the many available tours of Iceland. In this guide, we will go over the best summer tours in Iceland, which allow travellers to witness Iceland’s extraordinary beauty in the 24-hour daylight of the summer months.

Explore Iceland in the Summer by Hiking

Iceland offers an abundance of hiking trails and treks throughout the country, where hikers are often captivated by dramatic landscapes and untouched wilderness. There are a lot of different hiking variations available in Iceland, so whether you are looking for a short day-hike or a longer multiple-day hike, you have found the ideal spot for your hiking experience. 

Day-Hikes in Iceland 

In Iceland, a great variety of day hikes are available, both in the vicinity of Reykjavík and all around the country. Many popular day-hikes are the Esjan and Úlfarsfell mountains, both located in or just outside Reykjavík. Hiking either Esja or Úlfarsfell mountain takes about 2-3 hours, depending on how many stops are taken along the way.

Another popular day hike is in Reykjadalur valley, located close to Hveragerði town, about 50 km [31 mil] from Reykjavík city. The path takes hikers to a hot spring, making it a perfect two-in-one activity. 

Multi-Day Hikes in Iceland

Laugavegur trail.

In addition to the many day hikes in Iceland, many multi-day hikes are available for hikers to explore. One of Iceland’s most famous multi-day hikes is the Laugavegur trail in the southern highlands. Hikers usually trek in 3-4 days, which is about 52 km [32 mil] and is generally considered challenging. The trek takes you through lava fields, black sand deserts, geothermal springs, glaciers, lakes, rivers, and forests, making it a perfectly diverse and contrasting hike. The best times to visit the trek are from June through September.

Woman hiking Laugavegur trail

Fimmvörðuháls Trail

Another popular hike is the Fimmvörðuháls trail, which is also located in the southern highlands of Iceland. The trail is 23.8 km [14.8 mil] and is a challenging one. It takes an average of 8 hours to complete, which can be done in a day but is quite common to split over a couple of days. The area is famous for birding and camping, making it ideal to explore wildlife and encounter other people while hiking.

Hornstrandir Trail

Located in the Westfjords in Iceland is the Hornstrandir trek, which is about 86 km [53 mils] long but can be split into shorter trails. The trek lets hikers experience breathtaking views where the landscapes of the Westfjords are one of Iceland’s most unique and dramatic ones. The area is quite remote, where you can expect to see untouched wilderness and experience various weather conditions. Due to the area’s remoteness, no infrastructure is in place for backpackers, so bringing enough food, water, clothing and gear to the hike is essential.

Glacier Hikes in Iceland

Iceland offers many glacier hikes where hikers can experience a once-in-a-lifetime journey and enjoy the astonishing views of Icelandic glaciers. Though it might sound like it, these tours are meant not only for winter but can be enjoyed all year round. Glacier tours can be embarked on at any of the many glaciers of Iceland, for instance, the Sólheimajökull glacier or the famous Eyjafjallajökull glacier. 

Find more information about the available glacier tours here . 

Water activities in Iceland

Snorkel or dive between two continents at silfra fissure.

Snorkelling or diving in Silfra offers a unique and captivating experience by taking participants on a journey between two continents, making it one of the best summer tours in Iceland. Silfra is located at Iceland’s national park Þingvellir, a fissure between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates. By diving into the crystal-clear glacial water, you can expect to see stunning underwater landscapes with visibility exceeding about 100 metres [328ft].

Explore the available tours to Silfra here . 

People diving in Silfra fissure in Þingvellir National Park Icelande

Kayak and paddle tours in Iceland

Whether you are looking for a calm evening paddle tour, a breathtaking kayaking tour through the Icelandic glacier water or a thrilling river ride, there are many options to choose from. One of Iceland’s most popular kayaking tours is the Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon tour, which takes participants to a breathtaking view of the ice caps and the dome of ice that rises above it. During the summer, it can also be a great option to enjoy a night of paddling under the midnight sun and watch how it never sets. 

See more information about the kayak and paddle tours available here . 

Get the Perfect Catch in an Icelandic Fishing Tour

Embarking on a fishing tour in the summer in Iceland promises an unforgettable adventure filled with excitement, natural beauty, and the thrill of reeling in a catch amidst stunning landscapes.

As the long days of summer bathe the island in golden sunlight, fishermen and enthusiasts flock to Iceland’s rivers, lakes, and coastal waters in pursuit of the perfect catch. For those that want to get the taste of fishing in Iceland, many tours are offered that are both informative, fun and hands-on.

The Sea Angling Tour sets off from Reykjavík Harbour out to the fishing areas of Faxaflói bay, where the experienced crew are able to spot fish in a blink of an eye. 

The Private Fishing Tour offers participants exclusive fishing trips in both a river and a lake, equipped with all fishing gear. The tours can be set up with short notice and can be specialised to fit all needs participants might have. 

The Whales and Sea Angling Tour combines exploring the majestic whales of Iceland with the fishing experience. So whether participants are experienced fishermen or simply want to relax, enjoy the landscape with a fishing rod on their hand, the tour is a perfect option. 

Embarking on a fishing tour in Iceland is a perfect opportunity to connect with nature, get insight and knowledge of fishing in Iceland and have some fun meanwhile. 

See available fishing tours here . 

Wakeboarding and Waterskiing tours 

Wakeboarding and waterskiing tours can be a great option to enjoy some fun while exploring the surrounding landscape. However, you must be quick as the boat goes fast. Western Iceland offers the perfect conditions for combining the two as it has one of the most breathtaking views of Iceland and plenty of water to go about. Whether you are a premier league professional, or a courageous beginner, the wakeboards and water skis will welcome you. 

See some of the wakeboarding and waterskiing tours of western Iceland here . 

Visit Iceland’s famous Golden Circle

The well-known Golden Circle is one of Iceland’s must-visit and most-visited tourist destinations. The journey takes travellers through some of Iceland’s most iconic natural wonders by stopping in three destinations: Þingvellir National Park, Gullfoss waterfall and the Geysir geothermal area. 

Þingvellir National Park

The journey’s first stop is Þingvellir National Park, a natural marvel and historical site in southwestern Iceland. Its historical status comes from the general assembly, or Alþingi, being established there around the year 930, which continued to convene until 1798. The national park is one of UNESCO’s World Heritage sites and offers visitors a unique experience of standing on the continental divide between North America and Eurasia. 

Geysir Geothermal Area

After visiting Þingvellir, the second stop of the journey is the Geysir geothermal area. The area is home to the famous Geysir and its more active counterpart, Strokkur, which typically erupts every 6-10 minutes. Strokkur’s usual height goes up to about 15-20 metres. However, it occasionally erupts up to 40 metres high. The surrounding area is vibrant and full of unique colours and landscapes, making this part of the journey remarkable. Close by the erupting geysers and bubbling mud pots are Hotel Geysir, where you can enjoy the beautiful view from the privacy of your room. 

Gullfoss Waterfall

The final destination of the journey, completing the Golden Circle, is Gullfoss waterfall. The majestic and powerful waterfall derives from the Hvítá River and plunges into a deep canyon. The name Gullfoss means golden waterfall, and the golden-toned mist that can be seen above the water a lot of the time gave the waterfall its name. 

Many choose to finish the tour at one of Iceland’s geothermal baths, Fontana . Fontana is located by Laugarvatn Lake, where visitors can relax in the warm water and even go for a dip in the lake. 

See many of the available Golden Circle tours here . 

gullfoss waterfall golden circle

Experience the Icelandic Midnight Sun 

The Icelandic midnight sun is a phenomenon that fascinates locals and visitors worldwide. In the summer months, from approximately May to August, the days are incredibly bright, but in the month of June, the sun can be visible nearly 24 hours a day. That is a result of Iceland’s high latitude, where the earth’s axis tilts towards the sun for six months during the summer, and therefore, the country gets to bask in the glow of the midnight sun periodically. 

The longest day of the year in Iceland, the summer solstice, takes place between June 20 and 22 and is often celebrated, for example, with the music festival Secret Solstice Iceland. 

In summary, visitors can enjoy the unique and breathtaking sight of the midnight sun in Iceland during the summer and cross that off their bucket list. 

For booking a midnight sun tour, see more information here . 

See the Majestic Whales of Iceland on a Whale Watching Tour

The large and captivating creatures we call whales can be found all around the island of Iceland. In Iceland’s surrounding ocean, multiple species of whales can be found, such as the Humpback Whale, Killer Whale, Blue Whale and many more. Each species has different characteristics and behaviours, which can be fascinating to explore. 

By embarking on a whale-watching voyage, you can experience the beauty of the wildlife and view the majestic ocean creatures just off the coast of Reykjavík. 

See available whale-watching tours here . 

A fin of a whale during a whale watching tour in Iceland

Ride into the Sunset on an Icelandic Horse 

Even though you might not be able to ride into the sunset with the never-setting Icelandic summer sun, you can still enjoy horseback riding on a majestic Icelandic horse. 

To some, the Icelandic horse might seem relatively small. However, the Icelandic horse is a very elegant and beautiful creature with a lively temperament. 

Riding an Icelandic horse in the summertime can be a very entertaining experience where you can learn more about the horses whilst enjoying the beautiful landscapes of the surrounding area. 

See available horseback riding tours here . 

Enjoying a horse riding tour in Iceland

Ride in the Icelandic nature on an ATV

There are more ways to ride in Icelandic nature than on a horse, as you can get the adrenaline flowing in an ATV or a quad tour. 

There are multiple types of ATV or quad tours, and you can choose from riding in a lava field, on a black sand beach, taking a midnight sun tour, or other. You can even combine the tour with other tours, such as visiting the Golden Circle, visiting the Blue Lagoon or going caving, and therefore getting a full Icelandic experience. 

See the available ATV or quad tours here .

Summer tours in Iceland summary

The best summer tours in Iceland are diverse and offer varied experiences such as hikes, wildlife exploring, thrilling rafting or calming midnight sun watching. Moreover, the experiences all have a common thread of enjoying the captivating Icelandic landscapes showcasing the country’s geological diversity in a compact space. To make the most of your summer in Iceland, we recommend taking any of the tours mentioned above and experiencing the treasures Iceland has to offer! 

Related Posts

Mannverk. A rendering of Árböðin

New Bathing Spot Coming to Golden Circle Area

CEO of Play Birgir Jónsson rejoins Dimma

Mixing Business with Beats, Play CEO Rejoins Metal Band Dimma

iceland budget airline play

First Ever Scheduled Flights from Iceland to Africa

best tours of iceland

Iceland tours worth telling your friends about

  • 31000+ reviews with
  • Experienced & pleasant guides
  • Easy booking & cancellation
  • Tripadvisor Travelers’ Choice

Skogafoss waterfall south iceland

Browse by category

Northern lights tour iceland

  • Jun – Sep

A woman at the geothermal spa Sky Lagoon

  • Sep – Apr

best tours of iceland

  • Aug – Apr

You’ll be exploring Iceland with local guides who are the cream of the crop. Professional, experienced, and fun, they will show you the best that Iceland has to offer. These tours to Iceland wonders are unforgettable experiences.

tour guide golden circle

Browse by activity

best tours of iceland

  • Apr – Oct

best tours of iceland

Travelers reviews

Write a review.

Share your experience with others.

Discover Iceland

Unlock Iceland’s Wonders! Dive into our curated posts for a sneak peek of the adventure that awaits on our unforgettable Iceland tours.

best tours of iceland

Most Popular Reykjavik Walking Tours

  • Adventure Tours
  • Culture & Traditions Tours
  • Food & Drink Experiences
  • Geothermal Pools of Iceland
  • Museums and Exhibits
  • The Northern Lights
  • Sightseeing Experiences
  • Multi-day Tours
  • East Iceland
  • Golden Circle
  • North of Iceland
  • Reykjanes Peninsula
  • South Iceland
  • Westfjords of Iceland
  • West of Iceland
  • Custom Sightseeing Tours in Reykjavik
  • Íslenskar Upplifanir
  • Private Adventure Tours
  • Private Culture & Traditions Tours
  • Private Food & Drink Experiences
  • Private Geothermal Pools of Iceland
  • Private Northern Lights Tours
  • Private Reykjavik Tours
  • Private Sightseeing Experiences
  • Self-Drive Tours of Iceland
  • Airport Transfers & Transport
  • Travel Guides
  • Responsible tourism
  • Reykjavik Walking Tours
  • North Iceland
  • West Iceland
  • Custom Tours
  • Private Reykjavik Walking Tours
  • Transfers & Transport

The Best Tours in North Iceland

North Iceland is a region less travelled yet overflowing with hidden treasures. It offers a variety of experiences that cater to every kind of traveller. From thunderous waterfalls to tranquil hot springs, the landscape is as diverse as the activities available. In this post, we’ll explore the best tours in North Iceland, each offering a unique way to engage with this remarkable part of the world. Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or a deep dive into Icelandic culture, North Iceland has something special in store for you. Let’s journey through the must-visit spots and hidden gems that make North Iceland a destination worth exploring.

The Forest Lagoon

The Forest Lagoon geothermal pool in Icelannd

Forest Lagoon is a new geothermal spa located in Vaðlaskógur forest, which is just a few minute’s drive from Akureyri . It is known locally in Iceland as the “Capital of the North”. The spa offers stunning views overlooking one of Iceland’s longest fjords, Eyjafjörður. And its unique location, surrounded by birch and pine trees, truly sets it apart. The Forest Lagoon aims to create an unforgettable experience for its guests by focusing on every detail. During a visit to the Forest Lagoon, guests can experience the view, tranquillity and energy of Vaðlaskógur, the forest surrounding the baths.

The Forest Lagoon features two pools. The large pool is 530m2, with a temperature of around 37°C (98.6F), two swim-up bars, and an indoor entry. The small pool is 53m2, with a temperature of about 40°C (104F). The sauna uses dry heat, humidity at around 20%, and temperature around 80°C. Guests can enjoy all the health benefits of a dry sauna while experiencing a unique view of Eyjafjörður and the surrounding mountains. Swimsuits must be worn in the sauna.

The Forest Lagoon has a cold pool next to the dry sauna. It is recommended that guests try combining the two to experience the health benefits. The temperature of the cold pool is 11°C (51.8F).

Dining at the Forest Bistro is essential to the Forest Lagoon experience. The wood-cladded bistro area provides quality food in an exotic environment. The bistro has a view over Eyjafjörður, and its indoor fireplace adds to the overall experience of the Forest Lagoon.

The Forest Lagoon can be reached by less than a five-hour drive or 45 minutes by plane from Reykjavík.

The Diamond Circle Tour

best tours of iceland

The Golden Circle in South Iceland is a renowned sightseeing route in Iceland that you may have heard of. However, North Iceland boasts the Diamond Circle . This route, subtly emerging as one of the best tours in North Iceland, guides visitors through an array of stunning natural landscapes, each distinct in character and story.

From the majestic Waterfall Goðafoss, travellers witness the raw power of Icelandic nature, where water thunders over a vast expanse. Moving on, the Lake Mývatn area unveils a contrasting scene of serene beauty. It is dotted with volcanic features like the steaming Hverir mud pits and the geothermal expanse of Námafjall.

Further along the route, Dettifoss Waterfall presents a spectacle of nature’s force, where water plunges powerfully into a rugged canyon, making it one of the most captivating sights in Iceland. The journey continues through the Jökulsárgljúfur Canyon, a testament to Iceland’s geological history with its striking basalt columns at Hljóðaklettar and the uniquely shaped Ásbyrgi Canyon.

Traversing the Diamond Circle is more than just a scenic drive. It explores the dynamic and diverse natural beauty that defines North Iceland, offering visitors a deep dive into the heart of its most stunning landscapes.

Whale Watching in Húsavík

Húsavík Original Whale Watching

When visiting North Iceland, a whale-watching tour from Húsavík , hailed as the Whale Capital of Iceland, is an unmissable experience. To join this extraordinary adventure, arrive at the ticket office in Húsavík at least 30 minutes before your scheduled departure.

This 3-hour journey takes you into Skjálfandi Bay’s heart, a marine life haven. The tour offers an excellent opportunity to observe whales, dolphins, and various sea birds in their natural environment. Embrace the charm of sailing on a traditional Icelandic oak boat. This experience adds a touch of authenticity to your adventure.

As you cruise the bay, take a moment to enjoy the warm comforts of hot cocoa and cinnamon buns. This tour is more than just a wildlife excursion. It’s a cultural experience deeply rooted in the maritime heritage of Iceland.

The Original Husavik Whale Watching tour, operated by North Sailing, is renowned for its commitment to providing authentic and sustainable wildlife activity.

 Lake Mývatn, Waterfall & Volcanos Tour from Akureyri

best tours of iceland

In the heart of North Iceland lies a region rich in natural phenomena, with Lake Mývatn as its centrepiece. This area is a microcosm of Iceland’s dynamic geology, offering a variety of unique landscapes and formations. On the Lake Mývatn, Waterfall & Volcanos Tour from Akureyri , you will visit some of the most beautiful places in the region. If you arrive by cruise ship, we recommend the same tour but adapted to cruise ship visitors.

  • Goðafoss Waterfall:  Known for its majestic beauty, Goðafoss Waterfall is a striking natural landmark. The water cascades down from a height of about 12 meters into a wide river, creating a powerful and awe-inspiring sight. The sound of the water roaring as it falls is a testament to the waterfall’s strength and beauty.
  • Lake Mývatn Craters:  The area around Lake Mývatn is renowned for its pseudo-craters at Skútustaðagígar. These unique geological formations, often mistaken for volcanic craters, were created by steam explosions as lava flowed over wetlands. Today, these grass-covered craters provide picturesque views and testify to the volcanic activity that shaped the region. The lake formed around 2,300 years ago is a hotspot for birdwatchers, with its diverse birdlife, including various duck and goose species.
  • Dimmuborgir:  The lava field of Dimmuborgir stands out with its extraordinary formations. Unlike most of Iceland’s flat, moss-covered lava fields, Dimmuborgir features dramatic shapes and structures that create a gothic and otherworldly landscape. Visitors can follow walking trails to explore these fascinating formations from the same volcanic eruption that formed the Skutustaðagígar craters.
  • Hverir – Námaskarð Geothermal Area : The Hverir geothermal area near Námaskarð is a showcase of Iceland’s geothermal activity. Here, the earth comes alive with steam vents, boiling mud pots, and hot springs. The vibrant colours and active geothermal features create an almost alien landscape, contrasting the surrounding areas.

Each location around Lake Mývatn provides a unique glimpse into the natural forces that have shaped Iceland’s landscape. This region is a must-visit for those exploring the north of the island.

The Battle of Iceland – VR Experience

The Battle of Iceland, best tours of north Iceland

The “ 1238 The Battle of Iceland ” experience is at the heart of exploring Iceland’s past. This is probably the most unique experience on our list of best tours in North Iceland. This immersive presentation welcomes visitors of all ages, inviting them to engage with history in a modern and interactive way. The exhibition is in the town of Sauðárkrókur , west of Akureyri.

Unlike conventional museums, this exhibition focuses on bringing history to life through virtual reality technology. It’s designed to captivate everyone, from history enthusiasts to those with little prior interest. The immersive, interactive installation offers a new and artful way to experience history.

The exhibition’s centrepiece is the Sturlung Era (1220 – 1262) from the Icelandic Sagas, the most tumultuous and violent period in Iceland’s history. This era, known for its brutal clan clashes and civil war, ended Iceland’s independence. The exhibition recreates this saga through interactive technology, offering visitors an engaging and dramatic insight into Iceland’s past. It’s not just about observing history; it’s about experiencing it in a vivid and impactful way. 

“1238 The Battle of Iceland” offers a unique opportunity to step back in time and immerse oneself in one of the most critical periods of Icelandic history, brought to life through cutting-edge technology.

Mývatn Nature Baths

best tours in North Iceland, mývatn nature baths

The Mývatn Nature Baths offer a distinctive geothermal bathing experience in Iceland. The water for the lagoon has a warm and inviting temperature between 36-40°C. It comes directly from the National Power Company’s borehole in Bjarnarflag. There are similarities between the Mývatn Nature Baths and the Blue Lagoon. But most agree that the former is a more personal experience.

The water has a unique composition. It is rich in minerals and alkaline, characteristics that make it particularly beneficial for bathing. Its chemical makeup naturally inhibits the growth of unwanted bacteria and vegetation, eliminating the need for chlorides or other disinfectants. This results in a pure and natural bathing experience. An important note for visitors: the geothermal water in this area has a high sulfur content, more so than in other regions of Iceland. 

While sulfur is known for its positive effects on respiratory ailments and skin conditions, it can tarnish and damage jewellery made of brass or silver. Therefore, it’s advisable to remove such items before entering the water. Adjacent to the lagoon, the Mývatn Nature Baths also feature two steam baths. Constructed directly over a geothermal area, these steam baths offer an immersive experience as natural, sulfur-free steam rises through holes in the floor. Maintaining a temperature of around 50°C with nearly 100% humidity, these steam baths provide a deeply relaxing environment. In 2019, windows were added to these baths, allowing guests to enjoy the stunning views while they relax.

Guests can alternate between the steam baths and cooling down in the outdoor shower, making the most of this unique, natural spa experience.

The Beerbath Spa

best tours in north Iceland, bjórböðin, beer spa

Last but not least on our list of the best tours in North Iceland: Bjórböðin SPA is a spa located in Árskógssandur, which is situated in the north of Iceland. The spa offers a unique experience where you can relax and de-stress by soaking in warm beer. Beer yeast is used in different ways, and the most common form is in a tablet, where the yeast’s effects are very beneficial to the body.

The beer bath is one of the most popular experiences at the spa, where you can bathe in both young beer and live beer yeast for several hours. This has a great effect on the body and skin, leaving you feeling refreshed and rejuvenated. 

In addition to the beer baths, all the tubs also have a draft beer tap so visitors aged 20 and over can enjoy a cold beer while they bathe. The spa also has an outside hot tub for bigger groups and a new restaurant that serves beer-related food.

North Iceland is Definitely Worth the Visit

As we end our exploration of the best tours in North Iceland, it’s evident that this region provides a wide range of experiences for all kinds of travellers. From the breathtaking natural beauty of the Diamond Circle to the unique geothermal marvels of the Myvatn Nature Baths, each tour offers a chance to connect deeply with the land and its history.

The best tours in North Iceland showcase the region’s stunning natural wonders and provide insight into Icelandic culture and tradition. They encourage you to experience the magic of the north, and we hope you will consider travelling to that part of Iceland.

Leave a Reply Cancel Reply

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

  • Food & Drink in Iceland 70
  • History & Traditions of Iceland 143
  • Holidays in Iceland 32
  • Shopping in Iceland 15
  • Things to do in Reykjavik 90
  • Traveling in Iceland 104

Explore Our Tours

best tours of iceland

Whale Watching Adventure by Speedboat

best tours of iceland

Luxurious Whale Watching Cruise from Reykjavik

best tours of iceland

Hunt the Northern Lights via Cruise Ship

best tours of iceland

Glacier Hike Discovery on Vatnajokull

best tours of iceland

Explore the Ice Caves of Vatnajökull

best tours of iceland

Climb the Glaciers of Vatnajökull

best tours of iceland

Hike across the Glaciers of Vatnajökull

Horseback riding in Iceland

Black Beach Horseback Riding Tour

best tours of iceland

Discover the Ice Caves of Vatnajökull

Home

  • Private Tours
  • Private Transfers
  • Privacy Policy
  • Terms and Conditions

best tours of iceland

EXPLORE NORTHERN LIGHTS

AuroraQuest: Exclusive Private Northern Lights tour Iceland

AuroraQuest: Exclusive Private Northern Lights tour Iceland

Explore real adventure, use coupon code best10 to get 10% discount on private tours.

Private Golden Circle Tour with 5 stops - Discover Iceland's Natural Treasures

Private Golden Circle Tour with 5 stops - Discover Iceland's Natural Treasures

Private South Coast Tour - Explore Iceland's Majestic Coastline

Private South Coast Tour - Explore Iceland's Majestic Coastline

Combo Tour: Private Golden Circle with South Coast - A 12-Hour Icelandic Odyssey

Combo Tour: Private Golden Circle with South Coast - A 12-Hour Icelandic Odyssey

Iceland's Coastal Gems: A 14-Hour Private South Coast and Diamond Beach Tour

Iceland's Coastal Gems: A 14-Hour Private South Coast and Diamond Beach Tour

Golden Serenity: Private Golden Circle with Blue Lagoon tour (Entrance Exl)

Golden Serenity: Private Golden Circle with Blue Lagoon tour (Entrance Exl)

Golden Horizons: Private Golden Circle with Sky Lagoon (Entrance Exl)

Golden Horizons: Private Golden Circle with Sky Lagoon (Entrance Exl)

Let us guide you on a private transfer, use coupon code best10 to get 10% discount on private transfers.

Private Reykjavik to Keflavik transfer in Iceland

Private Reykjavik to Keflavik transfer in Iceland

Private Keflavik to Reykjavik transfer in Iceland

Private Keflavik to Reykjavik transfer in Iceland

Hassle-free private transfers in iceland.

trip

Great opportunity for adventure in Iceland

Safety and reliability, flexibility and comfort:, sustainability, exclusive private tours await.. , seamless travel in iceland: premium and customized tours & transfers.. .

“Experience the enchanting beauty of Iceland with our premium tours and transfers, ensuring a seamless and unforgettable journey.”

best tours of iceland

BEST TOURS ICELAND

Iceland Unveiled – Let Us Guide You on a Private Tour 🙂

Tailored Experiences

Exclusive access, pick & drop, unforgettable memories, what they’re talking about our company.

Best Tours Iceland

best tours of iceland

The 6 Best Luxury Hotels in Iceland

I celand is a Nordic island nation in Europe that is known for its dramatic landscape. The island country is in the North Atlantic Ocean and has a reputation for its hidden gems. Iceland has major tourism appeal, especially due to its popular Blue Lagoon. In fact, the Blue Lagoon is the attraction that travelers will most likely see if they search the destination online. Although the Blue Lagoon is a major tourism spot, the country has much more to offer travelers. Some of the other things travelers should experience while visiting Iceland include the Westfjords region, Atlantic puffins, the Secret Lagoon and The Golden Circle Tour. The Golden Circle Tour is a day journey that is a holistic exploration of Iceland’s most popular attractions. It is an ideal option for first-time visitors, so many travelers plan to stay in local accommodations during their trip. 

For travelers planning to stay in Iceland, it is important to research the best places for travelers. Safety is a number one concern for travelers staying abroad. Technically, Iceland is a very safe place to travel to , but of course where travelers stay plays a big part in their experience. Booking luxurious accommodations is an additional step that travelers can take to ensure their convenience and comfort. To best prepare for a trip to Iceland, we have compiled the most important information for travelers as well as the best luxury hotel options. 

Why Visit Iceland? What Are the Important Things Travelers Should Consider for Their Luxury Stay?

According to the Global Peace Index (GPI) Iceland has very low crime compared to other destinations in Europe. Because of this it is one of the safest destinations to visit. Travelers often note that they feel comfortable visiting this country and even consider it one of the most relaxing places they have ever been.

Best Time To Visit Iceland

The best time to visit Iceland for the best travel experience depends on the traveler. The high season for travel in Iceland is between June and August and the month of December. The shoulder season is around fall, so between September and October. The least amount of travelers visit from November and April, due to the limited amount of sunlight (around five hours a day in winter). 

For pleasant weather, the best time to visit this country is during summer. Between June and August, travelers will notice ideal temperatures for summer activities. Temperatures are around 50 and 60 degrees during the warmer months. 

For natural attractions like the northern lights, there are ideal travel times. To view the Aurora Borealis it is best for travelers to visit from the middle of October until March. During this time there are longer hours of darkness, which optimizes travelers chances of great views. The weather conditions of Iceland are quite temperamental, so travelers should not base their whole trip on seeing the Northern Lights.

Travel Costs

While Iceland is considered one of the world’s most beautiful and expensive travel destinations, travelers commonly note that it is worth the visit. But generally, there is a high cost for food and not travel. The bulk of the cost of an Iceland trip is in the excursions, food and accommodations. It is possible for travelers to plan wisely and save money though. The best time to visit Iceland for lower prices is around the off season, typically between late fall and the beginning of spring. 

The Best Luxury Hotel Options in Iceland

For travelers that are looking to splurge on their accommodations, there is a good selection of places to stay. From the most breathtaking views to the fanciest vacation features, these hotels of Iceland have plenty to offer to international travelers. These luxury hotels offer the top amenities in Iceland and are a great fit for travelers with a bigger budget. 

Deplar Farm

Deplar Farm is an award winning hotel with exceptional views of the Northern Lights. It has even been recognized as one of the world’s best hotels (in 2023). The property has floor to ceiling windows which allow guests to take in the nearby peaks and colorful skies. The rustic yet modern accommodation has some top notch amenities. Among those are a premium wellness spa, indoor and outdoor pools or hot tubs, a sauna, lounge, yoga room and even two helipads. The hotel has en suite rooms with optional private balconies and chef prepared meals all day. The lodge is so accommodating that guests have included round trip airport transfers, guided nature activities and assistance with planning from the experience team. 

Hotel Rangá

Hella is a small town in southern Iceland. It is considered a family friendly area, so it is a particularly safe place to stay. The Hotel Rangá is a four star resort located near Hella. This themed hotel has a gourmet restaurant, bar and observatory. Travelers can enjoy Nordic delicacies, candlelit dinners and artistic decor from local artisans during their visit. Visitors of this rural property are commonly honeymooners, older travelers or small groups. The hotel provides a relaxing getaway experience but also has unique features like an optional wake up service for when the Northern Lights are visible. 

Reykjavik EDITION Hotel

The Reykjavik EDITION hotel in downtown is a five star luxury experience. The spacious property has distinctive offerings. One of the most popular features of the hotel is THE ROOF, which is a sleek wrap-around outdoor terrace with floor to ceiling glass doors. Due to its downtown location, this hotel is quite centrally located. The famous Blue Lagoon is within driving distance and travelers can explore the city’s popular shopping district. The rooms at the hotel have stunning panoramic views of the harbor, cozy decor and some even have outdoor terraces. 

The Retreat at Blue Lagoon 

This retreat is an award winning luxury resort and is located near the Reykjanes UNESCO Global Geopark. The hotel has 62 spacious suites, a spa, smart features, a Michelin starred restaurant and phenomenal views of the surrounding landscape. Of course, many travelers will recognize the nearby geothermal lagoon (Blue Lagoon is about 12 miles away) that has made this hotel a convenient and popular accommodation. In addition to the close proximity of the hotel to one of Iceland’s most famed attractions, there is a wealth of wellness experiences offered. Travelers can book soothing in-water massages, float therapy sessions and nourishing spa treatments. There are private meditation, sound healing, yoga and stretching experiences available for travelers trying to find their zen. 

Check out the top tips for a luxury stay in Iceland. Pictured: a luxe hotel in Iceland with shallow turquoise pools

Menu

Subscribe Now! Get features like

best tours of iceland

  • Latest News
  • Entertainment
  • Real Estate
  • Lok Sabha Election
  • Electoral Bonds Case
  • RCB Won WPL 2024
  • Loksabha Election Schedule 2024
  • IPL 2024 Schedule
  • The Interview
  • Web Stories
  • IPL Points Table
  • IPL Purple Cap
  • IPL Orange Cap
  • Mumbai News
  • Bengaluru News
  • Daily Digest

HT

Iceland volcano erupts again, Reykjavik's Keflavik Airport remains open while Blue Lagoon Spa closes doors

Reykjavik's keflavik airport's website showed it remained open both for departures and arrivals as iceland volcano erupts again, spewing fountains of lava.

A volcano in Iceland erupted on Saturday for the fourth time since December, the country's meteorological office said, spewing smoke and bright orange lava into the air in sharp contrast against the dark night sky.

This image provided by Iceland Civil Defense shows lava erupting from a volcano between Hagafell and Stóri-Skógfell, Iceland. Iceland volcano erupts again, Reykjavik's Keflavik Airport remains open while Blue Lagoon Spa closes doors (Photo by Iceland Civil Defense via AP)

In a video shot from a Coast Guard helicopter and shown on public broadcaster RUV, fountains of molten rock soared from a long fissure in the ground, and lava spread rapidly to each side.

The eruption began at 2023 GMT and the fissure was estimated to be about 2.9 kilometres long, roughly the same size as the last eruption in February, the Icelandic Meteorological Office said in a statement.

Authorities had warned for weeks that an eruption was imminent on the Reykjanes peninsula just south of Iceland's capital Reykjavik.

The site of the eruption was between Hagafell and Stora-Skogfell, the same area as the previous outbreak on Feb. 8, the Met Office said.

"This was definitely expected," said Rikke Pedersen, head of the Nordic Volcanological Centre.

"Of course the exact time of the eruption is impossible to predict. The first cues of this moving towards the surface actually only happened about 15 minutes in advance," she said.

Reykjavik's Keflavik Airport's website showed it remained open both for departures and arrivals.

Lava appeared to be flowing rapidly south towards the nearby Grindavik fishing town, where a few of the nearly 4,000 residents had returned following earlier outbreaks, the Met Office said.

The town was again being evacuated, public broadcaster RUV reported. An outbreak in January burned to the ground several of its homes.

"We're just like, this is business as usual," Kristin Maria Birgisdottir, who was evacuated from Grindavik in November, told Reuters.

"My son...just called me and said, Mamma, did you know the eruption has started? And I was like, yeah, I did know. Oh, my grandma just told me. So it's like we don't even bother telling each other anymore," she said.

Icelandic police said they had declared a state of emergency for the area.

The nearby Blue Lagoon luxury geothermal spa immediately shut its doors, as it did during previous eruptions.

Iceland, roughly the size of the US state of Kentucky, boasts more than 30 active volcanoes, making the north European island a prime destination for volcano tourism - a niche segment that attracts thousands of thrill seekers.

In 2010, ash clouds from eruptions at the Eyafjallajokull volcano in the south of Iceland spread over large parts of Europe, grounding some 100,000 flights and forcing hundreds of Icelanders to evacuate their homes.

Volcanic outbreaks in the Reykjanes peninsula are so-called fissure eruptions, which do not usually cause large explosions or significant dispersal of ash into the stratosphere.

Gases from the eruption were travelling westwards out at sea, the meteorological office said.

Scientists fear the eruptions could continue for decades, and Icelandic authorities have started building dykes to divert burning lava flows away from homes and critical infrastructure.

The February eruption cut off district heating to more than 20,000 people as lava flows destroyed roads and pipelines.

Located between the Eurasian and the North American tectonic plates, among the largest on the planet, Iceland is a seismic and volcanic hot spot as the two move in opposite directions.

Join Hindustan Times

Create free account and unlock exciting features like.

best tours of iceland

  • Terms of use
  • Privacy policy
  • Weather Today
  • HT Newsletters
  • Subscription
  • Print Ad Rates
  • Code of Ethics

healthshots

  • Elections 2024
  • India vs England
  • T20 World Cup 2024 Schedule
  • IPL 2024 Auctions
  • T20 World Cup 2024
  • Cricket Players
  • ICC Rankings
  • Cricket Schedule
  • Other Cities
  • Income Tax Calculator
  • Budget 2024
  • Petrol Prices
  • Diesel Prices
  • Silver Rate
  • Relationships
  • Art and Culture
  • Telugu Cinema
  • Tamil Cinema
  • Exam Results
  • Competitive Exams
  • Board Exams
  • BBA Colleges
  • Engineering Colleges
  • Medical Colleges
  • BCA Colleges
  • Medical Exams
  • Engineering Exams
  • Horoscope 2024
  • Festive Calendar 2024
  • Compatibility Calculator
  • The Economist Articles
  • Explainer Video
  • On The Record
  • Vikram Chandra Daily Wrap
  • EPL 2023-24
  • ISL 2023-24
  • Asian Games 2023
  • Public Health
  • Economic Policy
  • International Affairs
  • Climate Change
  • Gender Equality
  • future tech
  • Daily Sudoku
  • Daily Crossword
  • Daily Word Jumble
  • HT Friday Finance
  • Explore Hindustan Times
  • Privacy Policy
  • Terms of Use
  • Subscription - Terms of Use

Login

NEWS... BUT NOT AS YOU KNOW IT

Is it safe to travel to Iceland? UK travel advice after latest volcanic eruption

author image

Share this with

Iceland volcano erupts ?without warning? in most powerful blast yet Grindavik METRO GRAPHICS Credit metro.co.uk

A volcano in southwestern  Iceland  has erupted yet again, following former eruptions from the Fagradalsfjall volcano .

A state of emergency has been declared after fast lava flows in Iceland’s Reykjanes Peninsula were spotted, after the volcano erupted without warning.

Fast moving lava has already reached the eastern side of the small evacuated town of Grindavik, which was initially evacuated late last year due to similar eruption activity.

Pools of lava gathering near the town’s defences have sparked concern, although the lava streams appear to be slowing, according to local authorities.

But the new eruption has worried travellers who were planning on spending time in the icy country, with visitors concerned that their flights from the UK may be cancelled in light of the seismic activity.

Here is the latest travel advice issued by the government for those planning to fly to the country.

Is it safe to travel to Iceland?

Smoke rises as volcano erupts near Grindavik, Iceland, March 16, 2024, in this picture obtained from social media. Jorge Reis/via REUTERS THIS IMAGE HAS BEEN SUPPLIED BY A THIRD PARTY. MANDATORY CREDIT. NO RESALES. NO ARCHIVES.

Yes, it is still safe to travel to Iceland , but travellers are urged to check government websites for warnings if the situation changes.

The UK Government posted on its website: ‘Recently there have been a series of volcanic eruptions on the Reykjanes peninsula in south-west Iceland, the latest occurring on 16 March.

‘These have affected the town of Grindavik and area to the north of it. All roads to Grindavik and the surrounding area are closed and you should stay away from this area. Keflavik International Airport and the road to it is unaffected and operating normally.

‘The capital city, Reykjavik, and the rest of Iceland is not impacted by the eruptions. The likelihood of further eruptions in this location remains high.

‘You should monitor local media for updates and follow the authorities’ advice on travel to the area.’

Are flights still going to Iceland?

Mandatory Credit: Photo by IBL/REX/Shutterstock (12048224b) Blue Lagoon, geothermal spa, in Reykjavik, Iceland, May 09, 2021. Blue Lagoon, Reykjavik, Iceland - 09 May 2021

Flights to and from Keflavik are generally running without a hitch at the moment.

‘The principal information on the eruption can be found on the  website of the Civil Protection Department  and the  website of the Icelandic Meteorological Office .’

But those travelling will be warned that major tourist attractions, including the Blue Lagoon, have shut.

The Blue Lagoon, one of Iceland’s most famous geothermal spas, has announced it will remain closed through March 17.

Get in touch with our news team by emailing us at [email protected] .

For more stories like this, check our news page .

MORE : Iceland’s most powerful volcano eruption yet triggers state of emergency

MORE : Iceland’s Blue Lagoon evacuated because volcano is about to erupt

MORE : There are 14 supervolcanoes – that we know of. What will happen if one erupts?

Metro Travel presents... The Getaway Newsletter

Get need-to-know travel news, inspiration and advice from Metro every week.

Sign up here....

Privacy Policy

best tours of iceland

To the beautiful man with curly brown hair wearing a bright orange…
You were wearing Disney merchandise, had a shock of brown hair with a…

Get us in your feed

IMAGES

  1. The 7 Best Iceland Northern Lights Tours of 2022

    best tours of iceland

  2. The 10 Best Guided Tours in Iceland

    best tours of iceland

  3. The Ultimate Iceland Travel Guide For All Seasons

    best tours of iceland

  4. The 5 sites you have to see in Iceland

    best tours of iceland

  5. 10 Best Tours in Iceland (2022)

    best tours of iceland

  6. 13 Best Iceland Tours That Will Get You Off the Tourist Trail

    best tours of iceland

VIDEO

  1. Travelling Iceland 2022 {vlog}

  2. Exploring Iceland's Glittering Beaches

  3. Iceland is so beautiful it it hurts!

  4. Shape Your Botanical Adventure with Iceland Paradise Tours!

  5. Your Tranquil Vacation Awaits in Iceland!

  6. Hit the Road and Explore Iceland's Treasures with Iceland Paradise Tours!

COMMENTS

  1. The Top 10 Best Tours in Iceland: Popular and Unique Excursions

    Photo from Brilliant 3-Hour River Rafting Tour of the Hvita River. Iceland is a country of extreme seasonal contrasts, so excursions such as northern lights tours can only be undertaken by winter travelers, while river rafting tours are exclusively for those visiting in summer.. Which tours you can take will also depend on the parts of the country you plan to visit, whether you're driving ...

  2. 17 Best Iceland Tours of 2024: Northern Lights & More

    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 ...

  3. Best Iceland Tours & Vacations 2024/2025

    Iceland tours take in a land of waterfalls, glaciers and geysers, the Blue Lagoon, Northern Lights, street art in Reykjavik and a Golden Circle of natural wonders. ... Ari Steinthorsson was the best tour guide I could have ever imagined. I would go back for another tour in a heartbeat. Review submitted 19 Feb 2024. Page 1 of 122. Explore ...

  4. 10 Best Iceland Tours & Trips 2024/2025

    Browse the best tours in Iceland with 2,803 reviews visiting places like Reykjavik and Thingvellir National Park. All Major Brands. Biggest selection. Best Prices. Deals of the Week St. Patrick's Day Up to 50% OFF. Deals end: 0d 3h 39m 4s. 0. Destinations. Destinations.

  5. THE 10 BEST Iceland Tours & Excursions for 2024 (with Prices)

    Wonderfully engaging and hugely entertaining, this is a great way to learn about Reykjavik and Iceland without going too far. We tasted a wide variety of local foods including the fantastic plokkfiskur (a kind of fishy mashed potato with a rye bread topping), a lamb hotdog made famous by a US President and Kjötsúpa (the warming lamb soup) and the infamous pickled shark (tastes like fishy ...

  6. Best Tours & Vacation Packages in Iceland

    The best tours for avoiding crowds in Iceland are self-drive tours where you can explore at your own time and pace by visiting popular attractions outside their busiest hour. This Spectacular 8-Day Self Drive Tour of the Ring Road takes you around the country, visiting all the major natural wonders and attractions along the coast. Since you're ...

  7. 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 220 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.

  8. The 7 Best Tour Companies in Iceland

    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. Book here! 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.

  9. 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.

  10. Best Guided & Escorted Tours in Iceland

    What is the best guided tour 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 ...

  11. 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.

  12. 10 Best Iceland Tour Companies & Operators 2024/2025

    Iceland Tour Companies. Looking for an unforgettable Iceland tour? Book a fully-organized trip with the best tour companies in Iceland and let the tour operator take care of everything for you. Check out the tour details and read 100734 reviews from our customers to help you choose the perfect tour for you. View all Iceland Tours.

  13. THE 10 BEST Iceland Tours & Excursions (from £3)

    Iceland Tours. Enter dates. Filters. Sort. Mar 15, 2024 - Find & Book the top-rated and best-reviewed tours in Iceland for 2024. From prices and availability to reviews and photos, Tripadvisor has everything you need to create that perfect itinerary for your trip to Iceland.

  14. The Best Tours & Vacation Packages of 2024 in Iceland

    One of the best 2024 vacation packages in Iceland is a seven-day self-drive tour around the Golden Circle, two national parks, and a range of other top attractions rated 4.8 out of 5 stars from 276 reviews, which travelers can enjoy at their own pace. Prices begin at about 849 USD.

  15. Best Tour Companies in Iceland

    10. Southcoast Adventure. In the top 10 of the best tour companies in Iceland is Southcoast Adventure, a tour company specializing in adventure and sightseeing tours in South Iceland. Founded in 2009, Southcoast Adventure has grown over the years and now offers nearly 30 excursion products at Guide to Iceland.

  16. The Best Guided Tours of Iceland for All Seasons

    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). ...

  17. 10 Best Iceland Small Group Tours & Trips 2024/2025

    10 day Guided tour | Iceland Complete - Small Group. 4.5 (4 reviews) We ennjoyed Reykjavik Penasola day trip.Hiking Fagradalsfjall Volcano is advanture, but, however, it was once in a life experence. it was worthy to viist. The volcano is still erupted.

  18. 10 Best Iceland Tours & Trips from Reykjavik

    Iceland Tours & Trips from Reykjavik. Find your perfect adventure! We have 180 tours of Iceland that start in Reykjavik, Iceland. The most popular month is August, and tour lengths range between 1 and 23 days.

  19. Day Tours in Iceland

    One of the best day tours in Iceland is a small group tour of Snaefellsnes National Park, including transport from Reykjavik, which has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 462 visitors.This tour costs approximately 132 USD. Another popular day tour in Iceland is a hiking tour of Vatnajokull, the largest glacier in Europe, with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 488 visitors.

  20. The Best Summer Tours in Iceland

    The best summer tours in Iceland are diverse and offer varied experiences such as hikes, wildlife exploring, thrilling rafting or calming midnight sun watching. Moreover, the experiences all have a common thread of enjoying the captivating Icelandic landscapes showcasing the country's geological diversity in a compact space. To make the most ...

  21. Iceland's #1 Local Tour Operator

    BusTravel Iceland is a Reykjavik-based tour operator & DMC that runs high-quality, daily guided trips to popular destinations around Iceland. With over 60 years of experience, you can book tours with 24-hour cancellation & best price guarantee. Destinations include the Golden Circle, South Coast, Glacier Lagoon, Volcano Sites, Snæfellsnes peninsula and more.

  22. The Best Tours in North Iceland

    The "1238 The Battle of Iceland" experience is at the heart of exploring Iceland's past. This is probably the most unique experience on our list of best tours in North Iceland. This immersive presentation welcomes visitors of all ages, inviting them to engage with history in a modern and interactive way.

  23. Private Day tours

    Our private tour was a dream come true. The guide knew all the best spots, and the attention to detail was incredible. If you want a top-notch Icelandic adventure, this is the company to choose. Jessica Brown. If you're looking for the best way to experience Iceland, Best Tours Iceland is the way to go. We booked a private tour and were amazed ...

  24. The 6 Best Luxury Hotels in Iceland

    The best time to visit Iceland for the best travel experience depends on the traveler. The high season for travel in Iceland is between June and August and the month of December. The shoulder ...

  25. Riads, juice bars and football clubs: The coolest places in Marrakech

    Iceland volcano eruption: Travel advice and Blue Lagoon update Now playing Next Why China should be at the top of your 2024 bucket list

  26. Today's news in 10 minutes

    March 19, 2024 Today on CNN 10, we travel to Iceland, where evacuations are underway after a volcano erupted for the fourth time in three months. The current eruption is the most powerful yet.

  27. Iceland Volcanic Eruption Fourth In Three Months, Nears Town

    March 18, 2024. A volcanic system on the Reykjanes Peninsula in Iceland has erupted for the fourth time in the last three months. This time, a lava flow barreled toward the town of Grindavik where ...

  28. Iceland volcano erupts again, Reykjavik's Keflavik Airport remains open

    Iceland, roughly the size of the US state of Kentucky, boasts more than 30 active volcanoes, making the north European island a prime destination for volcano tourism - a niche segment that ...

  29. Is it safe to travel to Iceland right now? UK advice after eruption

    The Blue Lagoon, one of Iceland's most famous geothermal spas, has announced it will remain closed through March 17. Get in touch with our news team by emailing us at [email protected] . For ...