Day 1: Welcome to Reykjavik
On arrival to Keflavik International Airport, you will be greeted by a driver who will take you to your accommodation in Reykjavík. After settling in, the rest of the day is free for you to explore the vibrant city centre and its many museums, restaurants and bars for all tastes. Head to the main street, Laugavegur, to enjoy its various shops and cosy cafes. Spend the night in Reykjavík.
Day 2: The South Coast & Impressive waterfalls
Start the day heading to the spectacular south coast. Here, you will visit the beautiful Seljalandsfoss waterfall, where you can follow a path behind its misty cascade. The next waterfall you will see, Skógafoss, is just as impressive in its winter coat and also has a trail running alongside it up a hill. Nearby is the Skógar Folk Museum, where we recommend exploring the old turf farm or checking out the exhibits inside for a taste of Iceland´s rich history. Spend the night in the Kirkjubæjarklaustur area Driving distance approx. 249 km / 154 mi.
Day 3: Floating Icebergs at Jökulsárlón
Spend some time exploring Skaftafell, part of the vast Vatnajökull National Park and a place of great natural beauty. Or if you’re feeling more adventurous, join a guided glacier hike (optional)*. Next, head to the smaller Fjallsárlón, followed by the more famous Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon and enjoy the surreal scene of icebergs floating by. If you are lucky and the conditions are right, the northern lights may make an appearance**. Next to the glacier lagoon, stop at the Diamond Beach where you will see big chunks of ice that have washed up on shore after being polished in the surf of the glacier lagoon.
Spend another in the Kirkjubæjarklaustur area.
*venturing onto a glacier or engaging in ice climbing should only ever be attempted with the assistance of a licensed and experienced guide.
**The northern lights are a natural phenomenon, so sightings cannot be guaranteed.
Driving distance approx. 250 km / 155 mi.
Day 4: The Scenic South Coast & Optional Activities
Your journey today takes you back along the south coast towards Vík, giving you an opportunity to spend some more time exploring the attractions you may have passed. We also recommend checking out the volcanic black sand beach* south of Vík, where you can see the dramatic rock formations of Reynisdrangar and Dyrhólaey—a stunning sight by the light of the setting sun. As you have the entire day to explore, it‘s ideal to join one of the optional activities in this area such as an ice cave tour, an ATV tour on the black sand beach, glacier hiking or snowmobiling (activities not included).
Spend the night in the Selfoss area.
*Caution should always be exercised when visiting Reynisfjara beach near Vík due to powerful rogue/sneaker waves and the strong undertow current. Always stay far back from the water’s edge and read the warning sign before walking on the beach. Driving distance approx. 203 km / 126 mi.
Day 5: The Wonders of the Golden Circle
Today, you will make your way to explore the classic Golden Circle route, starting with to the majestic Gullfoss waterfall, followed by the Haukadalur geothermal area. Here, is the home of Geysir—the original “geyser”—and the more active Strokkur, which spouts water every few minutes. After exploring the Geysir region, head to the fascinating Þingvellir National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site where you can walk on a path in the rift valley between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates. You can then explore Kerið crater before reaching your accommodation for the night. Spend the night in the Selfoss area. Driving distance approx. 193 km / 119 mi.
Day 6: Geothermal area of Reykjanes Peninsula
Head to the volcanic Reykjanes Peninsula. On a fissure zone created by separation of the mid-Atlantic ridge running across Iceland lies the large geothermal area of Krýsuvík. Within the same area is the stunning Seltún geothermal field, where volcanic fumeroles, mud pots and hot springs have formed over millennia. Next, you can visit the Blue Lagoon, a geothermal spa surrounded by interesting lava formations—an especially unique experience in the winter (pre-booking needed).
Spend the night in Reykjavík. Driving distance approx. 139 km / 86 mi.
Day 7: Departure
When it’s time for your Iceland adventure to end, you will be picked up from the accommodation for your airport transfer by a shuttle bus about three hours before your flight. If you’re flying in the afternoon, you have the option to visit the Blue Lagoon geothermal spa to relax in the warm mineral waters before continuing to the airport (optional: not included).
