The Great Round Tour: Around Iceland in 13 Days

Planning an Iceland adventure can feel overwhelming—so many stunning sights, so little time. That’s where the Great Round Tour comes in, offering a comprehensive 13-day guided journey around the entire island. Based on enthusiastic reviews, this tour promises an in-depth taste of Iceland’s most iconic landscapes, along with some hidden gems off the beaten path.

What we love about this experience is how it balances stunning scenery with small-group intimacy, making it easier to connect with fellow travelers and enjoy personalized attention. Plus, the inclusion of all accommodations, breakfast, and dinners means less worry about logistics—just relax and take in the scenery. A potential drawback is the price point of over $7,000 per person, which might be steep for some, but most agree the value in the experience and access to remote sites justifies the cost.

This tour suits travelers who crave authentic landscapes over luxury, enjoy light hiking, and prefer guided tours to maximize sightseeing without the stress of planning. It’s especially good for those interested in geological wonders, wildlife, and cultural insights, all wrapped into a carefully curated itinerary.

Key Points

• All-encompassing: A 13-day tour that covers Iceland’s most famous and lesser-known sites, from waterfalls to volcanic fields.
• Small group: Limited to 12 travelers, ensuring a more personalized and engaging experience.
• Inclusive package: Accommodation, breakfast, and dinner are included, making it easier to manage costs and logistics.
• Expert guidance: A knowledgeable guide (Jens) enhances the journey with stories, history, and local insights.
• Remote access: Visits to off-the-beaten-path locations like the Westfjords and Moorsdalur Farm set this tour apart.
• Value for the price: With 13 days of sightseeing, this tour offers a thorough exploration that’s hard to match independently.

A Deep Dive into the Itinerary

Day 1 & 2: Reykjavik and the Golden Circle

Starting in Reykjavik, you’re quickly introduced to Iceland’s geological marvels. The first full day covers Þingvellir National Park, where you walk between tectonic plates and explore Iceland’s historic parliament site. It’s free to enter but packed with geological significance—your guide will fill you in on why it’s a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Next, you visit Gullfoss, the Golden Waterfall, whose roaring cascade will make you feel small. Most travelers comment on how breathtaking these waterfalls are—many noting that the photos hardly do justice to their scale and power. Then, it’s on to Geysir geothermal area, where the erupting Strokkur geyser is a highlight. It’s a lively scene of bubbling mud pots and steaming vents, offering a great introduction to Iceland’s volcanic activity.

Day 3 & 4: South Coast and Vatnajökull National Park

The next days showcase Iceland’s legendary waterfalls, with Seljalandsfoss and Skogafoss—both visually stunning and very accessible. Travelers love the chance to walk behind Seljalandsfoss, getting a different perspective on the cascading water, while Skogafoss’s thunderous fall is awe-inspiring as you stand close to the spray.

A visit to Skogar Folk Museum offers cultural context, showcasing traditional Icelandic life, making these stops both scenic and educational. The Solheimajokull Glacier provides an up-close look at the icy cap. The black sand beaches of Reynisfjara, with their basalt columns and powerful Atlantic waves, leave a lasting impression.

Hiking to Svartifoss in Skaftafell National Park reveals a waterfall framed by striking basalt columns. The boat tour on the Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon stands out as a highlight—floating among icebergs, many travelers describe it as surreal. The guides’ handling of the boat adds a touch of adventure to this icy spectacle.

Days 5 & 6: East Fjords and the Remote North

Crossing into the East Fjords, you’ll experience Lagarfljot and Modrudalur Farm, the highest inhabited place in Iceland. Staying in this high-altitude valley offers a peaceful, rural atmosphere—perfect for those looking to escape city life.

The drive to Dettifoss, Europe’s most powerful waterfall, is an exhilarating highlight. Its thundering force is often described as humbling. Nearby, the Húsavík region shifts to a more wildlife-oriented focus, with the chance to see puffins and other bird species at Latrabjarg cliffs—the largest bird colonies in Europe.

Days 7 & 8: The North and Westfjords

Your time in Akureyri, Iceland’s second city, offers a taste of local life and a break from more remote areas. The scenic drive along the coast leads to Siglufjörður, a charming fishing town with a rich herring history. The highlight here is Hvitserkur, the drunken dragon-shaped rock that makes for fabulous photos.

Heading into the Westfjords, you encounter less-visited, dramatic landscapes. The remote Strandir coast is perfect for quiet reflection, with its black and red sand beaches, especially Rauðisandur. Spending nights in small fishing villages like Sudureyri ensures an authentic Icelandic experience away from the crowds.

Days 9 & 10: Westfjords and Bird Cliffs

The Dynjandi waterfall is a show-stopper—the largest in the Westfjords, with a series of cascade tiers that look like a bridal veil. You’ll find yourself wanting to linger here. The Latrabjarg cliffs provide a spectacle of seabirds, including puffins—an authentic wildlife encounter praised by many travelers.

Days 11 & 12: Snæfellsnes Peninsula and Central Iceland

The tour then explores the iconic Kirkjufell mountain and Djúpálónssandur, a pebble beach perfect for a reflective walk. The Grabrok Crater offers a gentle romp on an ancient volcano, while Hraunfossar waterfalls showcase a stunning flood of water streaming from beneath a lava field.

Day 13: Departure

All good things must end, and your journey concludes with a drive back to Keflavik Airport. The comprehensive nature of this tour means you’ll leave with a significant understanding of Iceland’s diverse landscapes and a camera full of memories.

Authentic Experiences and Traveler Insights

Multiple reviews highlight how knowledgeable guides, like Jens, enrich the trip. They not only point out geological features but also share stories and folklore, making the trip more memorable. One traveler noted, “Jens makes sure you see places a typical Ring Road trip might miss,” emphasizing the off-the-beaten-path aspects.

The accommodations receive praise for being comfortable and often in charming, rural settings. One reviewer appreciated staying in modern farmhouses with beautiful views, noting that the farm stays added a relaxing touch after days of sightseeing.

The boat tour on the glacier lagoon is often described as a standout moment, providing a surreal, almost otherworldly perspective of floating among icebergs. The tour’s inclusions, like access to Þingvellir and the Folk Museum, ensure a well-rounded experience that blends natural beauty with cultural insights.

The Value and Who It’s For

While the cost of over $7,000 per person might seem high, most reviews confirm that the experience is worth it. The all-inclusive package reduces hassle, and the small group ensures more personal attention and flexibility. You’re paying for an expertly curated itinerary that covers every major highlight while also giving you access to remote areas few travelers see independently.

This tour is best suited for adventurous travelers who enjoy light hiking, stunning scenery, and cultural insights. It’s ideal for those who want a comprehensive Iceland experience without the stress of planning or navigating on their own. If you love geology, wildlife, and scenic drives, this journey offers plenty to love.

The Sum Up

The Great Round Tour is a serious commitment, both in terms of cost and time, but it delivers an immersive, well-organized exploration of Iceland’s diverse landscapes and cultural highlights. With a knowledgeable guide leading the way, travelers are free to enjoy the sights without worry, all while learning about the country’s geology, history, and folklore from passionate locals.

This tour is perfect for those seeking the full Iceland experience, especially if they want to see the less-visited corners along with famous landmarks. The combination of stunning scenery, expert guidance, and comfortable accommodations makes it a strong choice for travelers who want to pack as much as possible into two weeks.

For anyone craving an authentic, hassle-free journey across one of the world’s most unique countries, this tour offers a meticulous balance of adventure, comfort, and discovery.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for all fitness levels?
Most travelers should have a moderate physical fitness level. The tour involves some light hiking and outdoor activities, but nothing too strenuous.

What’s included in the price?
You get all accommodation, breakfast, dinner, guided tours according to the itinerary, and admission to key sites like the Folk Museum of Skogar and boat tours.

Are there any additional costs not covered?
Yes, you’ll need to budget for lunches, beverages, and airfare to and from Iceland. All services not mentioned above, like optional activities, are extra.

How far in advance should I book?
On average, this tour is booked about 118 days ahead, so planning early is wise to secure your spot.

What is the maximum group size?
The tour limits groups to 12 travelers, which helps keep the experience intimate and flexible.

What’s the weather like, and how might it affect the itinerary?
Weather can be unpredictable; the operator reserves the right to alter the itinerary due to weather or other conditions.

How many stops are there each day?
The itinerary includes multiple stops daily—ranging from waterfalls and beaches to lava fields and towns—to maximize sightseeing.

Can I customize the experience?
As a guided group tour, customization is limited, but guides often adapt to weather and group interests.

Is this tour good for photography?
Absolutely. Iceland’s landscapes are photogenic at every turn, and many travelers find this tour ideal for capturing the country’s natural beauty.

What kind of traveler would enjoy this tour most?
Those who love adventure, scenic drives, wildlife, geology, and cultural stories will find this journey particularly rewarding.

In all, the Great Round Tour stands out as a detailed, well-loved way to see Iceland in all its rugged glory. If you’re after a balanced mix of sightseeing, comfort, and local insight—and don’t mind the price tag—this guided adventure could be your perfect Iceland introduction.