A 5-day winter small group tour covering the South Coast, Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon and the Golden Circle, with an ice cave tour and northern lights hunting. Groups of up to 16 guests, with expert local guides.
Price from 2107 EUR per person
This tour can be customized for following traveler types:
Upon landing at Keflavík International Airport, you'll be greeted by your driver for a private transfer to your hotel in central Reykjavík. After checking in and freshening up, the remainder of the day is yours to explore Iceland's colorful capital city at your leisure. Walk along Laugavegur, the main shopping street lined with Icelandic design shops, art galleries, and inviting cafes where you can experience the city's renowned coffee culture. With numerous museums, restaurants serving innovative Nordic cuisine, and a vibrant atmosphere, Reykjavík offers plenty to discover before your adventure begins. Overnight: Fosshótel Reykjavík or similar
Suggested hotels, or similar
HOTEL
Tier
Superior
Region
Reykjavík
A large modern hotel on Höfðatorg in central Reykjavík, within walking distance of Laugavegur and the old harbour. Your base on the first and last nights of the tour.
ATTRACTION
Region
Iceland
Reykjavík is the capital and biggest city of Iceland with a population of approximately 124,000. It is the northernmost capital in the world. Despite its small size, you can find many attractions and museums, making Reykjavik a popular destination.
ATTRACTION
Region
Iceland
Laugavegur is the main street of central Reykjavik and the busiest in Iceland, running through the historic heart of the city from Hlemmur square to Lækjartorg. It is lined with Icelandic design shops, wool boutiques, restaurants, cafés, galleries, and bars, and forms the spine of Reykjavik's nightlife. The lower section is pedestrianized. The name translates as Wash Road, a reference to the route women once walked to reach the hot springs of Laugardalur with their laundry.
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Region
Iceland
Hallgrímskirkja is Reykjavík's most recognizable building and Iceland's tallest church at 74 meters, dominating the city skyline from its hilltop position above Skólavörðustígur. It is a Lutheran parish church named after the 17th-century Icelandic poet and clergyman Hallgrímur Pétursson, author of the Passion Hymns. Designed by state architect Guðjón Samúelsson in 1937, it took 41 years to complete, with construction running from 1945 to 1986. The distinctive stepped concrete facade was directly inspired by the hexagonal basalt column formations found at Svartifoss waterfall and across Iceland's volcanic landscape. A tower elevator open to visitors daily gives panoramic views over Reykjavík and, on clear days, across Faxaflói Bay toward Snæfellsjökull. In front of the church stands a statue of Leif Eiríksson, a gift from the United States in 1930 to mark the Alþingi's 1,000th anniversary.
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Region
Iceland
Harpa is Reykjavik's concert hall and conference center, sitting on the waterfront at the edge of the Old Harbor. Its glass facade, designed by artist Ólafur Elíasson and Henning Larsen Architects, has made it one of the most photographed buildings in Iceland since it opened in 2011. The public areas are free to enter, and the building is home to the Iceland Symphony Orchestra and the Icelandic Opera.
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Region
Iceland
The Sun Voyager, known in Icelandic as Sólfar, is a polished steel sculpture on the Reykjavik waterfront that has become one of the most recognizable images of Iceland. Often mistaken for a Viking ship, it was actually described by its creator as a dreamboat, representing the promise of undiscovered territory and the freedom to explore.
After an early breakfast, your guide will pick you up from your hotel to begin your South Coast adventure. Your first stops are two of Iceland's most magnificent waterfalls. At Seljalandsfoss, you'll have the unique opportunity to walk behind the cascading water on a footpath that circles the falls, offering an unforgettable perspective. Continue to Skógafoss, where a powerful 60-meter waterfall creates a mesmerizing wall of water and mist that often produces beautiful rainbows in the sunlight. As you travel along the coast, you'll pass the stunning Eyjafjöll mountain range, including the famous Eyjafjallajökull volcano with its ice-covered summit. Near the village of Vík, you'll visit Reynisfjara, one of Iceland's most photographed black sand beaches. Marvel at the dramatic Reynisdrangar basalt columns rising from the ocean and the impressive basalt cave formations along the shore. If you're traveling in September or October, you'll join an ice cave tour today to experience the ethereal blue beauty beneath a real glacier. For tours between November and March, this ice cave adventure will take place tomorrow. Later, you'll arrive at your accommodation, strategically located away from city lights to maximize your chances of seeing the northern lights. After dinner with your group, spend the evening watching the sky for the aurora borealis.
Overnight: Magma Hotel or similar
Suggested hotels, or similar
HOTEL
Tier
Classic
Region
Kirkjubæjarklaustur, South Iceland
Near Kirkjubæjarklaustur in South Iceland, away from town lighting, which makes it a good base for northern lights evenings between the South Coast and the Glacier Lagoon.
ATTRACTION
Region
Iceland
Seljalandsfoss is a 60-meter waterfall on Iceland's South Coast, fed by meltwater from Eyjafjallajökull glacier flowing down the Seljalandsá river. It is one of the first major waterfalls visitors encounter heading east from Reykjavík along the Ring Road, about 120 kilometers from the capital. What makes it unusual among Iceland's waterfalls is a path that runs around the base of the cliff and directly behind the falls, allowing visitors to stand inside the curtain of water and look back out through it. The walk takes about 10 minutes and the cavern behind the falls is large enough to move around comfortably, though the path becomes extremely slippery and is closed in winter when ice makes it dangerous. The waterfall faces west and catches sunset light particularly well in the late afternoon. A second waterfall, Gljúfrabúi, is hidden inside a narrow gorge two minutes drive east and is worth the small detour.
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Region
Iceland
Skógafoss is one of Iceland's largest and most visited waterfalls, dropping 60 meters over a 25-meter wide curtain of water on the South Coast near the village of Skógar. The sheer volume of spray it produces means that on clear days, single and double rainbows are almost guaranteed, making it one of the most photogenic spots in the country.
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Region
Iceland
Reynisfjara is Iceland's most famous black sand beach, sitting on the South Coast just west of the village of Vík í Mýrdal, about 180 kilometers from Reykjavik. The beach is framed by a wall of hexagonal basalt columns and the three offshore Reynisdrangar sea stacks, which folklore says are trolls turned to stone by the rising sun. It is regularly cited as one of the most dramatic non-tropical beaches in the world, and is equally well known for its powerful and unpredictable sneaker waves, which can surge far up the beach without warning.
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Region
Iceland
Vík í Mýrdal is Iceland's southernmost village, sitting on the South Coast about 180 kilometers from Reykjavik. With a population of around 300, it is a small but well-serviced settlement, the main overnight stop on the South Coast route between Reykjavik and Jökulsárlón. Reynisfjara black sand beach and the Reynisdrangar sea stacks are 10 minutes west; the Mýrdalsjökull glacier covering Katla volcano dominates the landscape to the north. The hilltop Víkurkirkja church, with its distinctive red roof, is the most photographed building in the village and sits high enough to serve as a designated evacuation point if Katla erupts.
ATTRACTION
Region
Iceland
The northern lights, or aurora borealis, are one of the most sought-after natural experiences in Iceland. Iceland's high latitude, low light pollution, and long winter nights make it one of the best places in the world to see them, though a sighting always depends on a combination of clear skies, solar activity, and a little patience.
Start your day early for a full schedule of incredible winter experiences. If you're traveling between November and March, you'll begin with an ice cave and glacier walking tour on Vatnajökull, Europe's largest glacier. This unforgettable experience takes you into the heart of a glacier where you'll see stunning blue ice formations and learn about glacial geology from your expert guide. Next, you'll visit the spectacular Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon, where massive icebergs in shades of brilliant white and deep blue float peacefully in the glacial waters. The sight of these ancient ice sculptures drifting in the lagoon is truly breathtaking.
Nearby, you'll explore Diamond Beach, where ice chunks from the lagoon wash up on the black volcanic sand, creating a striking contrast that resembles scattered diamonds on the shore. After a day filled with glacial wonders, you'll return to your South Coast accommodation for another night. Enjoy a local dinner before spending the evening at leisure. If weather conditions are favorable, bundle up and head outside to search for the dancing lights of the aurora borealis in the dark Arctic sky.
Overnight: Magma Hotel or similar
Suggested hotels, or similar
HOTEL
Tier
Classic
Region
Kirkjubæjarklaustur, South Iceland
Near Kirkjubæjarklaustur in South Iceland, away from town lighting, which makes it a good base for northern lights evenings between the South Coast and the Glacier Lagoon.
ATTRACTION
Region
Iceland
Vatnajökull is Europe's largest glacier by volume, covering around 8,100 square kilometers and roughly 8% of Iceland's total land area. Beneath its ice lie several active volcanoes, over 30 outlet glaciers flow from its edges, and the vast Vatnajökull National Park that surrounds it is the second largest national park in Europe.
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Region
Iceland
Jökulsárlón is a glacier lagoon in southeast Iceland at the foot of Breiðamerkurjökull, an outlet glacier of Vatnajökull. It only came into existence in the 1930s when the glacier began retreating, and has grown rapidly since, making it Iceland's deepest lake at 248 meters and covering an area of around 25 square kilometers. Icebergs calved from the glacier drift slowly across the lagoon before flowing out through a short channel to the sea, passing Diamond Beach on the south side of the Ring Road as they go. The lagoon holds seals year-round, who hunt fish in the cold, clear water among the icebergs. Boat tours operate from May to October on both amphibian vehicles and zodiac inflatable boats. The lagoon has appeared in two James Bond films, Tomb Raider, and Batman Begins, among other productions.
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Region
Iceland
Diamond Beach, formally known as Breiðamerkursandur, is a stretch of black volcanic sand on Iceland's South Coast where icebergs from Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon drift out to sea and are pushed back onto the beach by Atlantic waves. The contrast between the jet-black basalt sand and the translucent ice, which ranges from clear white to deep blue depending on its age and density, is one of the most visually distinctive natural scenes in Iceland. Some pieces arrive small enough to hold in your hands; others stand taller than a person. The ice carries black stripes of volcanic ash from eruptions centuries ago, a record of Vatnajökull glacier's history preserved within the ice itself. The beach is directly opposite the Jökulsárlón parking lot on the south side of the Ring Road and free to visit year-round.
ATTRACTION
Region
Iceland
The northern lights, or aurora borealis, are one of the most sought-after natural experiences in Iceland. Iceland's high latitude, low light pollution, and long winter nights make it one of the best places in the world to see them, though a sighting always depends on a combination of clear skies, solar activity, and a little patience.
Today you'll explore Iceland's world-famous Golden Circle, a route that showcases some of the country's most iconic natural attractions. Your first stop is Gullfoss, the "Golden Waterfall," where you can watch the powerful Hvítá River plunge into a dramatic canyon in two magnificent tiers. The spray from the falls often creates rainbows, and in winter, ice formations add extra magic to the scene. Continue to the Geysir geothermal area, home to bubbling mud pots and the active Strokkur geyser. Strokkur erupts every few minutes, shooting boiling water and steam up to 30 meters into the air. Your guide will share fascinating stories about this geothermal wonderland and explain why it's such a favorite among both locals and international visitors.
Your final stop is Þingvellir National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that holds tremendous historical and geological significance. This is where Iceland's parliament was established over a thousand years ago, making it one of the world's oldest democratic meeting places. The park also straddles the Mid-Atlantic Ridge, where you can actually walk between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates in the dramatic Almannagjá rift valley. After your Golden Circle adventure, you'll return to Reykjavík for your final night in Iceland.
Overnight: Fosshótel Reykjavík or similar
Suggested hotels, or similar
HOTEL
Tier
Superior
Region
Reykjavík
A large modern hotel on Höfðatorg in central Reykjavík, within walking distance of Laugavegur and the old harbour. Your base on the first and last nights of the tour.
ATTRACTION
Region
Iceland
Gullfoss, meaning Golden Falls, is one of Iceland's most powerful and visited waterfalls, dropping 32 meters in two dramatic tiers into the narrow Gullfossgjúfur canyon on the Golden Circle route. Fed by glacial meltwater from Langjökull glacier, it carries an average of 140 cubic meters of water per second in summer, producing a roar and a cloud of mist that can be heard and felt long before the falls come into view.
ATTRACTION
Region
Iceland
The Geysir geothermal area in the Haukadalur valley of South Iceland is one of the three main stops on the Golden Circle and home to the hot spring that gave the English language the word geyser. The Great Geysir has been erupting intermittently for thousands of years and at its peak could blast water up to 70 meters into the air, but it is now largely dormant, erupting unpredictably and rarely. Its neighbor Strokkur, whose name means the Churn, erupts reliably every 5 to 10 minutes to heights of 15 to 40 meters and is the reason visitors gather here. The wider geothermal field contains dozens of hot springs, bubbling mud pools, fumaroles, and smaller geysers, making it worth exploring beyond just waiting for Strokkur. The site is free to visit year-round.
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Region
Iceland
Þingvellir National Park is Iceland's first national park and its only UNESCO World Heritage Site, sitting 47 kilometers east of Reykjavik at the first stop on the Golden Circle. It is the site of the Alþingi, Iceland's parliament, which first convened here in 930 AD, making it the oldest continuously operating parliament in the world. The park also straddles the rift valley between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates, one of the few places on earth where the Mid-Atlantic Ridge can be seen and walked above sea level.
ATTRACTION
Region
Iceland
Reykjavík is the capital and biggest city of Iceland with a population of approximately 124,000. It is the northernmost capital in the world. Despite its small size, you can find many attractions and museums, making Reykjavik a popular destination.
Your Icelandic winter adventure comes to an end today. A shuttle bus will pick you up from your hotel and transfer you to Keflavík International Airport in time for your departure flight. If your flight leaves in the afternoon, consider adding a visit to the Blue Lagoon geothermal spa on your way to the airport. Relaxing in the warm, mineral-rich waters is a perfect way to conclude your time in Iceland before heading home.
ATTRACTION
Region
Iceland
Reykjavík is the capital and biggest city of Iceland with a population of approximately 124,000. It is the northernmost capital in the world. Despite its small size, you can find many attractions and museums, making Reykjavik a popular destination.
Let your personal travel consultant know what other activities catch your eye and we’ll add them to your custom-made trip itinerary.
We handpick accommodations to ensure memorable stays for every type of traveler.
Our Superior accommodations feature spacious private rooms with en-suite bathrooms, offering the choice of a relaxing bath or a refreshing shower, along with a private toilet to ensure maximum comfort and privacy. These rooms represent the best available lodging options, found within prestigious 4-star hotels or the finest, highest-quality lodges across each region. In Reykjavik, all Superior accommodations are centrally located, placing you within easy reach of the city's key attractions, shopping areas, and vibrant dining and cultural scenes. These accommodations provide an elevated experience with superior comfort, thoughtful amenities, and attentive service designed to make your stay truly memorable. To enhance your visit, a complimentary breakfast is included each morning, helping you start your day well-nourished and ready to explore.
Experience a higher level of comfort with our carefully selected Classic accommodations, each offering private facilities including a shower and toilet for your convenience and privacy. These lodges fall under the 3-star hotel category, providing a perfect blend of quality and value. Most properties boast an on-site restaurant where you can enjoy a variety of meals without needing to venture far. In Reykjavik, all Classic accommodations are ideally situated in central locations, giving you easy access to the city's main attractions, shopping districts, and vibrant cultural spots. This category represents a significant upgrade in both comfort and service compared to budget options, making it an excellent choice for travelers seeking a cozy yet affordable stay. To make your mornings hassle-free, a delicious breakfast is included with your stay.
Our luxury accommodations feature exquisite suites and premium rooms within top-tier lodges and resorts, offering an elegant and sophisticated ambiance. Designed with refined decor and upscale touches, these accommodations provide a seamless blend of style, comfort, and exclusivity. Personalized services cater to your every need, ensuring a truly indulgent and tailored experience. In Reykjavik, all luxury accommodations are centrally located, placing you at the heart of the city’s vibrant cultural scene, fine dining, shopping, and key attractions. Whether you’re seeking a tranquil retreat or an immersive urban experience, these upscale lodgings deliver the perfect base. Classy, elegant, and supremely comfortable, our luxury options strive to provide a first-class stay marked by exceptional amenities, impeccable service, and attention to detail. Every aspect is carefully crafted to make your visit not just memorable, but extraordinary.
Prepare for your adventure with these essential tips and information for a smooth journey.
This tour isn't recommended for families with young children due to the nature of the activities included. However, it's well-suited for active, well-traveled children ages 12 and older who can handle the physical demands and pace of the itinerary. If you're unsure whether this tour is right for your family, we're happy to discuss it with you and help find the perfect fit.
This tour operates during Iceland's winter season, typically from September through April. These months offer the best chances to see the northern lights due to longer periods of darkness. September and early October provide milder temperatures, while November through March offer the quintessential winter experience with snow-covered landscapes. The ice cave experience is included year-round, though the specific cave location and tour duration may vary depending on natural conditions and your travel dates.
The ice cave and glacier walking tour is suitable for most people who can walk on uneven surfaces. You'll be provided with all necessary safety equipment including helmets, crampons, and ice axes. The tour involves walking on glacier ice and potentially climbing a few steps, but you don't need any prior experience. Your guides are trained professionals who will ensure your safety throughout the experience. If you have specific concerns about mobility or fitness level, contact us before booking.
Layering is essential for Iceland's winter weather. Bring a waterproof and windproof outer jacket, waterproof pants, warm mid-layers (fleece or wool), thermal base layers, a warm hat, waterproof gloves, and sturdy waterproof hiking boots with good ankle support and traction. For the ice cave tour, you'll want particularly warm layers as temperatures inside glaciers are significantly colder. Dress warmly for northern lights viewing, as you may be standing outside for extended periods.
The northern lights are a natural phenomenon, and sightings cannot be guaranteed. However, this tour is designed to maximize your chances by including two nights at a remote South Coast location far from light pollution, where viewing conditions are excellent. Your guide will monitor aurora forecasts and advise the group on the best times to look for the lights. Weather conditions and solar activity both play important roles in visibility.
This is a small group tour, which provides a more intimate and personalized experience compared to large bus tours. Small groups allow for better interaction with your guide, more flexibility in the schedule, and easier access to attractions. The exact maximum group size may vary, but small group tours typically accommodate fewer than 20 participants, ensuring everyone receives attention and can fully enjoy each experience.
