6 Day Iceland Ring Road Highlights Tour With Accommodation

If you’re dreaming of Iceland’s rugged beauty—its waterfalls, glaciers, geothermal fields, and volcanic landscapes—this 6-day guided tour promises a comprehensive, comfortably paced way to see it all. While we haven’t personally taken this particular trip, the detailed itinerary and glowing reviews suggest it offers a solid balance between iconic sights and authentic experiences.

What we especially like about this tour? First, the expert guides who bring Iceland’s stories and geology alive, and second, the stunning variety of landscapes packed into just six days. A potential downside? The pace might feel a bit rapid for those wanting more time at each stop. Nonetheless, it’s ideal for travelers eager to get a broad but detailed taste of Iceland’s natural wonders without the hassle of planning every detail themselves.

This tour is perfect for adventurous travelers who want a well-organized experience, value local insights, and don’t mind a full schedule. It also suits those seeking a cost-effective way to cover a huge swath of Iceland in a manageable, guided format.

Key Points

Comprehensive itinerary covers all the Iceland’s main highlights, from the Golden Circle to the North’s waterfalls and geothermal areas.
Expert guide and small group (up to 18 travelers) provide personalized attention and lively storytelling.
Accommodation for 5 nights is included, with private bathrooms—adding comfort to long days of sightseeing.
Optional Deluxe upgrades allow access to Katla Ice Cave, Vök Baths, and whale watching, offering added memorable experiences.
A balanced pace lets you see many sights without rushing, although the itinerary is busy.
Good value for the price when considering transportation, accommodation, and guided tours all included.

A Detailed Look at What’s Included and How It Matters

This 6-day tour is designed to give travelers a wide-ranging Icelandic experience. Starting in Reykjavík, the trip moves quickly through the country’s most famous and scenic zones. With hotel accommodations included, you avoid the hassle of nightly lodging planning, which is a huge plus given the remote locations visited.

Wi-Fi on board ensures you can stay connected and share your adventures, while pickup at the Reykjavik meeting point simplifies logistics. The tour runs from 9 a.m. start, with the end point back in Reykjavík, making it convenient for travelers arriving or departing from the capital.

The tour offers a professional driver-guide, which not only takes the stress out of navigation but also boosts the experience through storytelling, local insights, and answering questions along the way. This is particularly valuable given the diversity of stops—from UNESCO sites to active geothermal areas—where expert context enriches the visit.

What to Expect on Day 1: The Golden Circle and South Coast

The first day kicks off with Thingvellir National Park, a UNESCO site where you’ll see the rift valley and learn about Iceland’s political history at the site of the ancient parliament. The guide’s storytelling likely makes the geology come alive, and the included admission ensures no surprises.

Next is Geysir, where the famous Strokkur erupts every few minutes, offering great photo opportunities and a sense of Iceland’s geothermal power. Then comes Gullfoss, a waterfall that demonstrates the raw energy of Iceland’s rivers.

The afternoon visits include Seljalandsfoss, where you can walk behind the cascade—arguably one of Iceland’s most iconic photo ops—and Skogafoss, famous for its thunderous plunge and the mist that often creates rainbows in its spray.

The day ends with a visit to Reynisfjara, a black sand beach filled with basalt columns and sea stacks—unforgettable scenery with a dash of local folklore.

Day 2: South Coast Marvels and Ice Caves

Traveling further east, the day features Vík, the charming coastal village, and then a highlight: the Katla Ice Cave. This optional upgrade (included in the Deluxe tour) offers an otherworldly experience amid glaciers, with stunning blue ice formations. Expect about three hours exploring this icy wonderland.

Later, Fjaðrárgljúfur, a mossy canyon with winding river views, provides a peaceful yet dramatic landscape. The afternoon includes Jökulsárlón, the glacier lagoon filled with floating icebergs, and Diamond Beach, where ice fragments sparkle on the black volcanic sands.

These stops offer perfect photo ops and a chance to reflect on Iceland’s ongoing geological activity. The guide’s insights probably enhance your understanding of how glaciers, volcanoes, and water shape this island.

Day 3: Eastern Iceland’s Hidden Gems

In east Iceland, the tour visits Djúpivogur, a quiet fishing village with art installations like the Eggs of Merry Baya. It’s an authentic taste of Icelandic coastal life, away from the crowds.

Then, Egilsstaðir serves as a base for nearby natural sites like Lagarfljót Lake and Hallormsstaður Forest. The optional visit to Vök Baths (not included in the standard tour) offers a relaxing geothermal soak with lake views—an added treat.

The day’s focus on less-touristed regions adds a peaceful dimension and deepens your understanding of rural Iceland.

Day 4: North Iceland’s Power and Mystique

Starting with Stuðlagil Canyon, you’ll see stunning basalt columns that seem to defy gravity—an ideal spot for photography and geology buffs. Dettifoss, Europe’s most powerful waterfall, lives up to its reputation with a deafening roar and impressive spray.

Next, Námaskarð geothermal area features bubbling mud pots and vivid mineral deposits, creating an alien landscape. The visit to Dimmuborgir, with its lava formations and caves, feels like stepping into a fantasy world.

Skútustaðagígar pseudo-craters and Goðafoss waterfall round out the day, blending geological marvels with cultural history—particularly the significance of the waterfall in Icelandic Christianity.

Day 5: North Iceland’s Marine and Cultural Highlights

In Akureyri, the “Capital of the North,” whale watching tours promise encounters with humpbacks, orcas, and more. The guide’s local expertise makes this a highlight, especially for wildlife enthusiasts.

Hvítserkur, the “Troll of North-West Iceland,” offers a striking coastal silhouette, and nearby Kolugljúfur canyon features waterfalls and lush scenery, perfect for a peaceful hike and taking in the rugged coastline.

Day 6: West Iceland’s Volcanic and Scenic Wonders

The final day covers Grabrok Crater, a volcanic cone with panoramic views of lava fields. Then, Glanni Waterfall provides a tranquil spot, and Hraunfossar “Lava Falls” showcases water streaming through porous lava rock—truly a natural spectacle.

The stop at Reykholt offers a glance into Iceland’s medieval heritage, and Deildartunguhver, Europe’s most powerful hot spring, demonstrates Iceland’s geothermal ingenuity.

Who Will Get the Most Out of This Tour?

This guided adventure is excellent for travelers who want to see Iceland’s highlights without the stress of logistics. The small group size encourages interaction and personalized insights, and the included accommodation ensures comfort after long days of sightseeing.

It’s well-suited for those eager to learn from knowledgeable guides, who appreciate varied landscapes—from waterfalls and glaciers to geothermal areas—and who want the convenience of a carefully curated itinerary. If you’re comfortable with a packed schedule and want a cost-effective, all-included experience, this tour checks many boxes.

However, those seeking more relaxed, unhurried visits or a deep focus on a few sites might find the rapid pace a bit overwhelming. The optional deluxe upgrades are worth considering if you want more immersive experiences like ice caves or hot springs.

The Sum Up

This 6-day Iceland Ring Road tour offers a thorough, well-organized way to see Iceland’s most iconic sights and lesser-known treasures, all with the comfort of guided transport and accommodation. The combination of professional guides, diverse landscapes, and optional upgrades makes it adaptable for different interests.

It’s best suited for travelers who want a balanced mix of adventure and comfort—those who value expert insights, stunning scenery, and a manageable schedule. The value for money is evident when you consider the included hotel stays, transportation, and entrance fees, which can otherwise add up quickly if booked separately.

While the itinerary moves briskly, it covers a broad spectrum of Iceland’s natural wonders, leaving you with memories of waterfalls, glaciers, geothermal landscapes, and cultural sites. If you’re after an authentic, comprehensive experience of Iceland’s diversity, this tour is a solid choice.

FAQ

Is pickup offered for this tour?
Yes, pickup is available from the Reykjavik meeting point, simplifying your start to the trip.

How long is each day’s driving?
While specific durations aren’t listed, expect long driving days—this is a comprehensive tour covering much ground.

Are meals included?
Breakfast is included for all five nights, but other meals are not covered—plan accordingly.

Can I upgrade to include extra experiences?
Yes, the Deluxe tour option includes the Katla Ice Cave, Vök Baths, and whale watching.

What’s the group size?
The tour operates with a maximum of 18 travelers, promoting a more personal experience.

Is accommodation single or shared?
Private rooms are included, and solo travelers can opt for single supplements.

What is the age limit or physical requirement?
Most travelers can participate, but consider the physical demands of long walks and optional activities.

What’s the best time to take this tour?
While not specified, reviews mention winter wonderland scenery, suggesting a winter or summer option depending on your interests.

How accessible are the stops?
Most stops are easily accessible, with short walks to waterfalls, beaches, and geothermal sites.

What’s the overall value for the price?
Considering transportation, accommodations, guide expertise, and entrance fees, it offers good value for a guided Iceland experience.

This tour offers a well-rounded, authentic slice of Iceland’s landscapes and culture. Whether you’re marveling at waterfalls, exploring glaciers, or soaking in geothermal baths, it’s an adventure that promises a comprehensive look at this extraordinary country.