14 Days | Grand Iceland Summer Tour | With Flights

Reykjavik

Arrive in Reykjavik, the world’s most northerly capital, surrounded by incredible landscapes and countless natural wonders. Make your own way from the airport to your hotel. The remainder of the day is free for you to explore at leisure.

Reykjavik, on the coast of Iceland, is the country's capital and largest city. It's home to the National and Saga museums, tracing Iceland’s Viking history. The striking concrete Hallgrimskirkja church and rotating Perlan glass dome offer sweeping views of the sea and nearby hills. Exemplifying the island’s volcanic activity is the geothermal Blue Lagoon spa, near the village of Grindavik.

Meals: None

Accommodation: TBA on Booking Confirmation

Reykjavik  Golden Circle & Kerid Volcanic Crater Hveragerði

Your Grand Tour of Iceland begins with Iceland’s most famous sightseeing trail – the Golden Circle!

This route takes in three stunning locations, close to the capital and easily reached, so this is a perfect introduction to the “Land of Fire and Ice”! It’ll take just an hour to reach Þingvellir National Park, one of Iceland’s most historically significant places. The early Viking settlers made their laws here for a thousand years, and Iceland’s independence was declared in 1944. It’s also a vast rift valley where the Mid-Atlantic Ridge splits the American and Eurasian tectonic plates. That means you can walk in Viking footsteps between continents at Þingvellir!

From there, we’ll take you further inland to Haukadalur Geothermal Area, home of the original Geysir. Get ready to be amazed by superheated fountains of water shooting high into the sky every few minutes!

Close by is Gullfoss, a thundering two-tier waterfall that tumbles over thirty meters into a deep canyon. Clouds of spray hang in the air, so there’s a great chance of seeing rainbows at this magnificent location!

We’ll head south from Gullfoss towards the coast, with one more stop to thrill you on your first day – a visit to the multicolored crater at Kerið. It’s a marvelous sight, with deep green mosses covering red earth rocks with a vividly colored lake at the bottom of the crater.

Our first overnight stay will be in the “hot spring” town of Hveragerði, which offers a range of restaurants and bars.

Optional Activity (no pre-booking required):

HOT TUBS

After exploring four incredible attractions located on the Golden Circle Route you will arrive in Hveragerði, a town renowned for its vibrant geothermal activity. Not only will you have the chance to witness a smaller version of Geyser, but you can also indulge in a relaxing dip in the warm, naturally heated waters.

Be sure to pack your swimwear and end your day in the famous Icelandic geothermal pools! There is no better way to enhance your evening! Hot Tubs are located at or by your hotel and entrance is included.

Meals: Breakfast

Accommodation: TBA on Booking Confirmation

Hveragerði  Iceland’s South Coast

The second day of the tour takes you along Iceland’s South Coast, with three main attractions – towering waterfalls, glittering glaciers, and dramatic black sand beaches.

The first stop is Seljalandsfoss, a powerful waterfall that cascades from a height of 60 meters off the famous volcano Eyjafjallajökull. This waterfall has a special feature – you can walk all the way around it for magical views from behind the cascade! Nearby, another “secret” waterfall, Gljúfrabúi, is hidden in a green canyon, just a short walk from Seljalandsfoss.

Glacial meltwater from Eyjafjallajökull (the volcano that stopped air traffic in 2010) also feeds the roaring waterfall, Skógafoss. You might recognize this incredible cascade from “Game of Thrones,” Hollywood films, or even a Justin Bieber video! You can get very close to Skógafoss at river level or climb some steps to see it from above. On sunny days, look for arching rainbows over the falls!

Iceland is one of the most volcanic countries in the world, meaning there are beautiful black-sand beaches to visit. At Reynisfjara, dark volcanic sands stretch as far as the eye can see, towering hexagonal basalt columns cling to the cliffs, and fierce Atlantic waves crash on the shore.TripAdvisor named Reynisfjara No 4 in its Best Beaches awards, and you’ll soon see why! You will also be able to see this beach from a different angle when stopping at charming village of Vík – the southermost settlement in Iceland. 

We’ll stay overnight in comfortable accommodation in the countryside.

There are dozens of glaciers in Iceland, and Sólheimajökull is one of the easiest to reach, as it’s close to the Ring Road.

So, here’s your chance to take a thrilling hike on one of these natural marvels, strapping on crampons and seeing its incredible ice formations close up! Entrance fees apply.

Meals: Breakfast

Accommodation: TBA on Booking Confirmation

Iceland’s South Coast  Egilsstaðir

Today your Grand Tour of Iceland takes us towards Vatnajökull, Europe’s largest National Park and home of the greatest ice cap outside the poles.

More than 10% of Iceland lies under this enormous glacier, with “tongues” of ice reaching all the way down to the Ring Road. Icebergs “calve” from these tongues into the fabulous “Glacier Lagoon” at Jökulsárlón and then sail serenely around this marvelous place, sometimes for years! We’ll bring you to this magical place to see these incredible multicolored ice giants for yourself! Look for seals and seabirds as they perch on the icebergs as the tides tug them gently toward the sea.

Close by is Diamond Beach, where the ocean waves and the wind carve and sculpt the icebergs into striking shapes, looking like dazzling diamonds scattered on a black satin sheet. A stroll here will live long in your memory!

Our next stop is Vestrahorn, one of the most magnificent mountains in Iceland and one of the best to photograph too! When the skies are clear, its jagged peaks rise above a beautiful black sand beach, making it a sight you won’t forget.

After photo stops at the iconic Hvalnes Lighthouse and the historic fishing port of Djúpivogur, we’ll head through the Eastfjords to Egilsstaðir for an overnight stay.

Optional Activities

Suppose the fantastic views from the Glacier Lagoon’s shore aren’t enough for you? In that case, you can jump into a specially adapted amphibious vehicle for a boat tour around Jökulsárlón.

The trip lasts 45 minutes and gets you closer to an iceberg than you ever imagined!

POOLS

If you want to relax after fun-filled day, you can visit Vök Baths. You’ll discover beautiful geothermally-heated infinity pools floating in a freshwater lake, merging mysteriously into the landscape.

Meals: Breakfast

Accommodation: TBA on Booking Confirmation

Egilsstaðir  Stuðlagil Mývatn Akureyri

Heading north from Egilsstaðir, the first stop today is the astonishing Stuðlagil Canyon, where you’ll see a breathtaking collection of beautiful basalt columns twisting in all directions alongside a colorful glacial river.

Then we’ll continue along the Ring Road towards Mývatn, but there are plenty of sights to see along the way! An astounding hundred meters (330 ft) wide, some call Dettifoss the “King of Waterfalls,” and this force of nature will take your breath away. There are several viewing platforms to appreciate its epic scale! There’s another waterfall called Selfoss nearby – you’ll see them both!

On our way to Mývatn, we’ll also stop at Hverir, a bubbling geothermal area packed with steaming fumaroles and boiling mud pools. It’s almost like being on another planet! This area of Iceland has seen countless volcanic eruptions over the centuries, leaving lava fields behind in strange twisted shapes. You’ll also get to snap photos at Grjótagjá, a gorgeous geothermal hot spring cave made famous by a steamy scene in “Game of Thrones”. 

Dimmuborgir offers you the chance to walk around one of these weird landscapes for a closer look.

If you’re a birdwatcher, you’ll love Mývatn! One of Iceland’s largest lakes, it’s home to hundreds of thousands of migrating birds, so see how many you can spot as we circle the lake.

Then we’ll head to Iceland’s second city, Akureyri, for an overnight stay, with a photo stop at Goðafoss, the Waterfall of the Gods.

Optional Activity

The spa’s serene setting amidst birch and pine trees makes it truly exceptional.

The Forest Lagoon boasts two pools, with the large pool spanning 530m2 and maintained at a soothing temperature of around 37°C (98.6F), dry sauna & cold pool.

Meals: Breakfast

Accommodation: TBA on Booking Confirmation

Akureyri  Víðmýrarkirkja Borgarnes

As we reach the halfway point of our Grand Tour of Iceland, we’ll leave Akureyri behind and make our way west through lush valleys lined with majestic mountains.

Along the route, we’ll stop for photos at Víðmýrarkirkja, a traditional turf-roofed church, and at the spectacular rock formation, Hvítserkur. Some say this 15-meter-high sea stack resembles a fearsome dragon drinking from the ocean. It’s one of the most photographed sights in Iceland! Its name means ‘white shirt” in Icelandic, referring to what the sea birds leave behind when they nest here!

Continuing around the Ring Road, we’ll explore a little of Iceland’s rugged interior with a visit to the Kolugljúfur canyon and the Kolufoss waterfall. Easy to reach from the car park, you’ll learn all about a giant female troll called Kola, who was said to live here in the old days!

We’ll stay overnight in Borgarnes, the largest town in West Iceland, where you’ll enjoy excellent views of the surrounding mountains and a fine selection of restaurants, cafés, and bars.

Optional Activity

With its waters warmed by the Gulf Stream, Iceland is a magnet for migrating whales. As many as twenty species come to Iceland yearly, including humpbacks, minke whales, and even Blue whales, the most enormous creature ever to have lived on Earth!

On a three-hour whale-watching trip with local guides, you can see these marvelous creatures in their natural habitat. Whale watching tours in North Iceland have a near-perfect record, so don’t miss this opportunity!

Meals: Breakfast

Accommodation: TBA on Booking Confirmation

Borgarnes  Westfjords  Patreksfjörður

Iceland is filled with magnificent landscapes, as you’ll see on this Grand Tour of the “Land of Fire and Ice.” But there’s one area many people miss, and Lonely Planet recently gave it its “Best in Travel” award.

On the next three days we will travel through the captivating Westfjords region of Iceland. Along the way, we will visit Eiriksstaðir, a Viking heritage museum that showcases the remarkable history of Eirik the Red and his son, Leif the Lucky, who discovered America long before Columbus.

Prepare to be awe-struck as we reach Coastal Cliffs at Breiðafjörður, the gateway to the Westfjords. Here, a plethora of rocky islands adorns the picturesque bay, offering a captivating sight that will leave you breathless.

Our journey truly begins as we embark on a scenic road trip, traversing numerous fjords. Throughout the journey, you will be treated to breathtaking views from the comfort of our bus, with plenty of opportunities to pause and admire the remarkable landscapes.

Prepare to be enchanted as we arrive at Vatnsfjörður Natural Reserve, home to the mesmerizing Þingmanná Waterfalls and a stunning canyon. Immerse yourself in the natural beauty of this reserve, truly a sight to behold.  

Next on the itinerary is stop at Birkimel. There you can take an optional dip in traditional Icelandic “laug” called Krosslaug. The pools have no admission fee, but there is a donation box by the changing rooms as the area is managed by the local Youth Association. This is not a luxurious spa facility, but rather a natural, local pool with breathtaking views! Entering the pool is completely optional and is for those seeking a truly authentic Icelandic experience.

In our journey to the Patreksfjörður area, we will encounter the majestic Kleifaheiði mountain range. At its summit lies a fascinating sight that awaits us! In their moments of respite, the skilled engineers responsible for constructing the mountain road erected a remarkable 5-meter-tall stone statue known as Kleifabúi, symbolizing the pinnacle of their achievement.

Optional Activity (no pre-booking required):

Immerse yourself in the true Icelandic experience as you soak in the soothing waters, all while gazing at the breathtaking fjords that embrace you. What’s more, there’s no admission fee, and no need for advanced booking! However, we kindly ask for a donation to support the Youth Society responsible for maintaining this hidden gem. Cash donations in any currency are warmly welcomed and greatly appreciated.

Please bear in mind that this hot spring doesn’t boast luxurious spa amenities. If you wish to swim, please remember to bring your own towel and be prepared to utilize the changing facilities available at local pools. While there are no individual cubicles or lockers, the facilities are segregated by gender for your comfort and convenience.

Meals: Breakfast

Accommodation: TBA on Booking Confirmation

Patreksfjörður Látrabjarg Ísafjörður

From Patreksfjörður, your Westfjords adventure will continue with a visit to one of Iceland’s most significant bird colonies at Látrabjarg. These towering 400-meter sea cliffs are home to uncountable numbers of puffins (from April to August), kittiwakes, cormorants, guillemots, and more. It’s a birdwatcher’s paradise! This is the most westerly point in Iceland, so look out for the colorful Bjargtangar lighthouse, too – next stop, America!

On our way there, we’ll stop for photos at the iconic Garðar shipwreck, and on our way back, we’ll take you to a spectacular beach called Rauðisandur. The name means “Red Sands,” and it’s not hard to see why! Most Icelandic beaches are made of black volcanic sand, but the Westfjords are not an active volcanic area. So the sands here take their color from crushed scallop shells instead!

We’ll then head deep into the Westfjords with more photo opportunities at Fossfjörður waterfall and the mysterious A-House!

The highlight of this day comes next – the spectacular seven-step waterfall at Dynjandi! You’ll be amazed by the sight of this stunning cascade, which tumbles more than a hundred meters in its first step, and you can climb up as close as you want. It’s the most powerful waterfall in the Westfjords, and you’ll feel the raw power of “The Thunderer” as soon you arrive!

After a photo stop at the picturesque Önundarfjörður Pier in Flateyri, we’ll then drive north to Ísafjörður for an overnight stay in the capital of the Westfjords.

Meals: Breakfast

Accommodation: TBA on Booking Confirmation

Ísafjörður  Bólugnvarvik Borgarnes

Get ready for another thrilling journey filled with stunning landscapes and exciting encounters. Begin our day by embarking on a scenic drive through a 5 km-long tunnel that leads to Bólugnvarvik, a picturesque fishing town. As we make our way towards Bolafjall, a majestic mountain standing at 638m, prepare to be captivated by the breathtaking views. Take a walk on the “skywalk” viewing platform built over steep cliffs and immerse yourself in the natural beauty that surrounds us. 

On our way back to Ísafjörður, let’s make sure to make a stop at the charming Ósvör Fishing Village. This collection of turf-roofed buildings offers a glimpse into the traditional way of life in this region. Let’s take our time exploring this unique historical site and soak in the peaceful atmosphere. Another must-see attraction is the Óshólaviti Lighthouse. Located nearby, this iconic landmark stands tall against the stunning backdrop of the Icelandic landscape. Let’s marvel at its beauty and capture unforgettable memories. 

Then we will start driving the Seven Fjords Road.  Alongside you will find breathtaking natural wonders, encounter charming seal colonies, thriving salmon farms, and quaint turf-roofed huts. Gazing northwards, you’ll be treated to the remarkable sight of Hornstrandir, a renowned wildlife sanctuary, and the vast expanse of the Arctic Ocean. Keep a keen watch for Arctic foxes, the sole indigenous land mammals in Iceland, as they freely roam this area. And if you happen to miss an encounter, fret not, as you can still meet these marvelous creatures at the Arctic Fox Center while also supporting their conservation efforts. Additionally, there are numerous picturesque viewpoints scattered along the route, allowing travelers to relish in the beauty of their surroundings. Join us as we explore some of the most awe-inspiring stops on this remarkable coastal road, tailoring our itinerary to ensure the best experience based on visibility conditions. 

The last stop before reaching Borgarnes for the night will stop at Grábrók volcanic craters where you can stretch your legs and even climb up to the rim of an extinct volcano. 

Meals: Breakfast

Accommodation: TBA on Booking Confirmation

Borgarnes Borgarfjörður Deildartunguhver Hraunfossar Borgarnes

After a night in Borgarnes, the penultimate day of your Grand Tour of Iceland takes you deep into the Viking heartlands of West Iceland as we explore the Silver Circle. Borgarfjörður is thought to be where the early Viking settlers made their home a thousand years ago, and many of the famous Icelandic Sagas are set here.

As we pass under Hafnarfjall (Harbor Mountain), it won’t take long to reach Glanni, a beautiful waterfall that cascades over ancient lava fields. Then we’ll go to Deildartunguhver, Europe’s most powerful hot spring! There’s so much hot water and steam vapor that it feeds all the villages and towns in West Iceland – walk amongst the billowing clouds of steam and feel the power beneath your feet!

The next stop is Hraunfossar – the Lava Waterfall! This is a fascinating waterfall where the waters seem to fall from the middle of a rocky cliff for more than a kilometer along the White River. You can see this mesmerizing spectacle from several viewing platforms before exploring Barnafoss a little further up the river.

Ever wondered what it’s like inside a lava cave? The highlight of the day comes next! Víðgelmir is a hollow lava tube left behind a thousand years ago after a volcanic eruption, and you can explore its stalactites, stalagmites, and fascinating ice formations on a 1.5-hour caving expedition!

We’ll then explore the wooded oasis of Húsafell and historic Reykholt, where the Viking chieftain Snorri Sturluson wrote Iceland’s first recorded folklore, before returning to Borgarnes.

Meals: Breakfast

Accommodation: TBA on Booking Confirmation

Borgarnes  Búðakirkja Reykjavik

Borgarnes is the gateway to the Snæfellsnes Peninsula (the Snow Mountain Peninsula), also known as “Iceland in Miniature.” That’s because this 100-kilometer peninsula packs all of Iceland’s best features together in one place – mystical mountains, glittering glaciers, towering waterfalls, black sand beaches, seal and bird colonies, and so much more.

The peninsula is dominated by Snæfellsjökull, a glacier-topped stratovolcano that inspired Jules Verne to write “Journey to the Center of the Earth”! As we head towards it, we’ll visit the seal colony at Ytri-Tunga, spotting these lovely creatures as they laze on a golden beach.

Then we’ll stop for photos at the famous “Black Church” at Búðakirkja, which has become a “wedding destination” for couples worldwide!

Look offshore at Arnarstapi to see the beautiful rock arch, Gatklettur, rising above a picturesque black sand beach, and the towering 70-meter-high rock pinnacles at Lóndrangar, a home for thousands of seabirds.

Circling the end of the peninsula, we’ll visit the black sand beach at Djúpalónssandur, where you’ll see the remains of a wrecked trawler scattered on the sands and its famous “lifting stones.”

The final treat on this magnificent tour of Iceland’s greatest treasures is one of its most famous peaks. Kirkjufell (Church Mountain) has been featured in “Game of Thrones” and Hollywood films. Standing alone in a stunning location, its unique triangular shape will capture your heart and create amazing images for your Instagram!

It’s the perfect place to finish the road trip of a lifetime, your unforgettable Grand Tour of Iceland. 

Meals: Breakfast

Accommodation: TBA on Booking Confirmation

Reykjavik  Australia

Today after breakfast, its time to depart Iceland. Make your way to the airport to board your flight to Australia.

Meals: Breakfast and inflight menu

Australia

Welcome Home! We trust you have enjoyed this experience in Iceland during the Summer. We look forward to helping your next Travel Dream a reality.