From Reykjavík: 6-Day Around Iceland Ring Road Tour

Planning a trip to Iceland often begins with dreams of waterfalls, glaciers, volcanoes, and surreal landscapes. This 6-day tour promises to bring those dreams closer to reality, whisking you around the famous Ring Road—an itinerary that hits many of the country’s most iconic sights. While it’s a packed schedule, what stands out is the chance to see the diversity of Iceland’s natural beauty without sacrificing comfort or local authenticity.

We love how this trip balances guided exploration with some special activities like ice caving and geothermal bathing. It’s clear the organizers cater to travelers eager to experience Iceland’s wild side while also enjoying a cozy bed at night. A possible consideration is that it’s quite an itinerary—if you prefer slow, lingering visits or want more time at each stop, this might feel fast-paced. But for those who want a rundown with a touch of adventure, this tour hits the sweet spot.

This adventure suits travelers who crave a broad snapshot of Iceland’s landscapes—perfect for first-timers or those limited on time who want maximum variety. It’s also a great pick for outdoorsy types who enjoy a mix of sightseeing and active experiences, like ice caving and whale watching. If you’re looking for a deeper, more relaxed exploration of a specific region, you might want to consider a more specialized tour. But for a whirlwind introduction, this tour delivers plenty of value.

Key Points

• Comprehensive Route: Visits all major highlights along the Ring Road, including waterfalls, glaciers, geysers, and geothermal baths.
• Comfortable Experience: 5 nights in cozy hotels with breakfast included make travel manageable and relaxing.
• Active Adventures: Includes a memorable ice cave tour and optional whale watching, adding excitement to the journey.
• Small Group Size: Limited to 18 participants, ensuring a more personal and engaging experience.
• Expert Guidance: Professional English-speaking guides share insights that enrich your understanding of Iceland.
• Flexible Booking: Options to cancel up to 24 hours in advance, plus the possibility to reserve now and pay later, offer peace of mind.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An in-depth look at the 6-day Iceland Ring Road Tour

This tour is a well-rounded introduction to Iceland’s most famous sights, with enough time to appreciate each location without feeling rushed. Starting in Reykjavík, the journey immediately ventures into the country’s geological drama. Your first stop is the UNESCO-listed Þingvellir National Park, where the rift between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates creates an otherworldly landscape. Here, you’ll also learn about Iceland’s historic Alþingi assembly, giving a hint of the country’s cultural roots.

Next, the tour heads to the Geysir geothermal area. Watching Strokkur erupt every few minutes is a highlight—trust us, it’s a spectacle of nature’s power. The nearby Gullfoss waterfall provides a dramatic photo opportunity as water plunges down a two-tiered canyon, often accompanied by rainbows in the mist. We loved the way these spots connect geological activity with Iceland’s history and scenery, making for both educational and scenic stops.

The South Coast showcases some of Iceland’s most famous waterfalls—Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss. Seljalandsfoss offers a rare chance to walk behind a waterfall, a memorable photo spot. Then, Skógafoss’s sheer power impresses even the most seasoned travelers. The black sand beach at Reynisfjara invites a walk along striking basalt columns and crashing Atlantic waves, offering a stark contrast to the lush green inland scenery.

On Day 2, the adventure continues toward Vík, a charming village with impressive sea stacks and black sands. Here, the excursion to the Katla Ice Cave in Mýrdalsjökull Glacier introduces you to Iceland’s icy underground world, stunning with frozen formations. It’s an experience that combines adventure with natural beauty—truly a unique sight in Iceland’s landscape.

Following the ice cave, the journey takes you to Fjaðrárgljúfur canyon, a lush, winding gorge with steep walls that seem almost unreal. Moving eastward, the visit to Jökulsárlón glacial lagoon and Diamond Beach delivers jaw-dropping views of floating icebergs and shimmering ice fragments on dark sands—truly one of Iceland’s most iconic sights. The contrast of cold ice and black sand creates images you’ll want to keep forever.

Day 3 shifts slightly northward, with a visit to the charming fishing village of Djúpivogur, known for its picturesque harbor. After lunch in Egilsstaðir, travelers heading in summer can enjoy the puffin colonies at Borgarfjörður Eystri, offering a chance to see these adorable seabirds in their natural habitat. Winter travelers might explore different fishing villages, but the focus remains on the rugged eastern coast.

The afternoon includes relaxing at the Vök Baths, a geothermal spa with floating pools surrounded by nature—perfect for unwinding after a day of travel. The blend of scenic coastal villages and soothing baths makes for a memorable stop.

Day 4 takes a turn into Iceland’s more surreal landscapes. The highlight here is Stuðlagil Canyon, with its stunning basalt columns and a bright blue glacial river that winds through. It’s a photographer’s dream and a geological marvel. Then, the mighty Dettifoss waterfall, Europe’s most powerful, unleashes a thunderous roar as it crashes into the canyon below—a raw display of nature’s force.

Nearby, the Námaskarð geothermal area surprises with bubbling mud pots and steaming vents, while Dimmuborgir lava fields evoke a mystical atmosphere with their jagged formations. The day ends in Akureyri, Iceland’s second city, where you’ll settle into a hotel for the night.

Day 5 begins with a whale watching tour, included in the Deluxe package, offering a chance to see Iceland’s marine life. Enjoying a local lunch in Akureyri, we loved how this added a different dimension to the tour—these waters are teeming with life. Then, the day continues to Borgarvirki, an ancient volcanic plug once used as a Viking fortress, providing both a sense of history and panoramic views.

Hvítserkur, the iconic sea stack that looks like a dragon or a beast, makes for a dramatic photo stop. The day’s final highlight is Kolugljúfur canyon, a spectacular gorge named after a giantess from Icelandic folklore, adding a mythic touch to your journey.

Day 6 wraps up with visits to volcanic Grábrók, where a short hike to the summit offers panoramic views of the surrounding volcanic fields. Then, Hraunfossar waterfalls cascade through lava fields, creating a magical setting. A visit to a traditional Icelandic horse farm reveals the country’s unique breed and its cultural importance. The tour concludes with a stop at Deildartunguhver, Europe’s most powerful hot spring, showcasing Iceland’s geothermal energy.

Finally, the return drive to Reykjavík offers a chance to reflect on the trip’s highlights—an adventure filled with breathtaking views, geological marvels, and cultural insights.

What makes this tour worth considering?

The value of this tour lies in its comprehensive itinerary, covering Iceland’s top sights in just six days, with the added bonuses of included activities like ice caving, whale watching, and geothermal bathing. The small group size enhances the experience, allowing for more personalized attention and easier access to scenic viewpoints. The comfortable accommodations and breakfasts make sure you wake up ready for the day’s adventures rather than exhausted.

The guides bring more than just facts—they share stories and tips that help you appreciate the land’s story as well as its beauty. The included activities, especially the ice cave visit and whale watching, turn sightseeing into memorable experiences you’ll talk about for years.

However, a word of caution: this itinerary is ambitious. Expect a lot of early mornings, long days in the bus, and some quick stops. If you prefer a slower pace or more time at each location, you might find this tour a bit hectic. But if your goal is to see as much as possible in a short time, it’s a good option.

The overall value

Considering the price, the package offers good bang for your buck. The key attractions are included, and the accommodations are comfortable. The tours like the ice cave and whale watching are often extras in other packages, so including them here boosts the value. The guided aspect ensures you don’t miss key details and get local insights. Plus, the flexibility of booking with free cancellation and pay-later options makes it easier to plan without stress.

This tour is especially appealing if you want a well-rounded, active introduction to Iceland without worrying about logistics or finding your own way around. It’s perfect for travelers who want to maximize their time and see the highlights with knowledgeable guides by their side.

Who is this tour best for?

If you’re a first-time visitor eager to see Iceland’s most famous sights in a manageable, well-organized way, this tour is a solid choice. Outdoorsy types who enjoy a mix of sightseeing, active experiences like ice caving, and some relaxation in geothermal baths will appreciate the variety. It’s also suitable for travelers comfortable with a somewhat packed schedule, since the days are busy but well-paced.

Those who prefer a more leisurely, in-depth exploration of fewer locations might want to consider a different option. But for a first-timer seeking a comprehensive, adventure-filled week, this tour hits many high notes.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How many people are in the group?
The tour is limited to 18 participants, ensuring a more intimate experience and easier access to scenic spots and guides.

What is included in the tour price?
The price covers hotel pickup and drop-off, a professional English-speaking guide, transportation in a small bus, 5 nights in comfortable hotels with breakfast, all sightseeing, and activities like ice caving, whale watching (in the Deluxe option), and Vök Baths.

Are meals included?
No, lunch and dinner are not included. You’ll have the opportunity to purchase meals at various stops along the way.

Is this tour suitable for children?
It’s not suitable for children under 6 years old, likely due to the long days and active nature of some excursions.

What should I bring?
Bring warm clothing, hiking shoes, and outdoor gear. Iceland’s weather can be unpredictable, so layering is best.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. You can also reserve now and pay later, giving flexibility if your travel plans change.

What is the best time of year for this tour?
While the tour operates year-round, summer offers the chance to see puffins and enjoy milder weather, while winter provides a chance for snow, ice caves, and fewer crowds.

Is the ice cave visit included?
Yes, the Katla Ice Cave tour is included in the Deluxe package, offering a chance to explore the stunning frozen formations beneath Mýrdalsjökull Glacier.

Final thoughts

This 6-day Iceland Ring Road tour offers a rewarding way to see the country’s most stunning sights in a manageable timeframe. The combination of natural wonders, active experiences, and comfortable accommodations makes it suitable for curious travelers eager to experience Iceland’s wild beauty without the hassle of planning every detail. It’s especially valuable for those who want to make the most of their trip with guided insights and included activities.

While it’s a busy schedule, the diversity of landscapes and the chance to do some unique activities like ice caving and whale watching make it a trip to remember. If you’re after a comprehensive, well-organized introduction to Iceland’s highlights, this tour could very well be your best choice.

(Note: Always check current availability and specific details before booking to ensure the tour matches your expectations and travel plans.)

You can check availability for your dates here: