Iceland Ring Road 6-Day Tour (English-Speaking Minibus Tour)

Itinerary details

After meeting in the morning, we head to the Golden Circle. First, we visit Þingvellir National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its geological and historical significance. Icelanders established one of the world’s earliest democratic parliaments here in 930 AD. Next, we head to Geysir, the source of the word “geyser.” Although Geysir is currently inactive, nearby Strokkur erupts every few minutes, sending water 20–30 meters into the air. Then we visit the spectacular Gullfoss waterfall, powerful and magnificent, with a deep historical connection to Iceland’s environmental movement. Following the picturesque South Coast, we arrive at Seljalandsfoss, where you can walk behind the waterfall and admire its graceful beauty from the other side. Last is Skógafoss, which drops 60 meters. On clear days, the surrounding glacier-covered mountains are stunning, and the spray often creates single or double rainbows, adding a touch of magic. Continuing to explore the South Coast, we arrive at Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach, where you can admire spectacular basalt columns and cliffs. Overnight near Kirkjubæjarklaustur. From September to April, this is an excellent place to see the Northern Lights!

Meals

Breakfast: at your own expense Lunch: at your own expense Dinner: at your own expense

Accommodation

Adventure Hotel Geirland or similar

Attraction details

Geyser

Geyser

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The Geysir hot spring is located in the Haukadalur Valley, near Iceland’s capital, Reykjavík. The entire area is a geothermal field with around 50 geysers. Geysir is particularly prominent: its eruptions reach higher than those of any other spring or geyser in Iceland, making it one of the world’s most famous geysers. Strokkur is also located here, about 50 meters (160 feet) to the south. Geysir was the first geyser recorded in history and the first discovered by Europeans. The English word “geyser” comes from this place name. Geysir can shoot boiling water up to 70 meters (230 feet) into the air, although its eruptions can sometimes become infrequent. Records show that it has stopped erupting altogether for as long as a year.

Gullfoss Waterfall

Gullfoss Waterfall

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This is Iceland’s second-largest waterfall. It was given the name “Golden” not only because the river water has a slight yellow tint, but also because at dusk the setting sun bathes the entire waterfall in gold, creating a precious, golden spectacle.

Seljalandsfoss Waterfall

Seljalandsfoss Waterfall

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Also known as Pasture Waterfall, it is named after a nearby sheep pasture. The waterfall is 63 meters high, and its water comes from a glacial spring and is safe to drink. Behind the waterfall, at the foot of the cliff, there is a path that visitors can walk through. Exploring and taking photos there is a highlight, and countless photographers have been captivated by its beauty, capturing many stunning images from different angles.

Black Sand Beach

Black Sand Beach

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The black sand beach was formed from obsidian that cooled after a volcanic eruption and was weathered over time. Its naturally deep, translucent black sands leave the seawater crystal clear and undisturbed, shimmering with a faint golden glow in the sunlight. There are two entrances to the black sand beach. One is to drive to Vik and turn off onto Reynishverfisvegur, where you can see the entire stretch of black sand beach and a long row of basalt rock formations.

Skógafoss

Skógafoss

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Also known as Forest Waterfall, it is named after a forest on a nearby hillside. The waterfall originates from the Eyjafjallajökull glacier, whose volcano erupted in 2010. On sunny days, one or even two rainbows appear over the waterfall.

Þingvellir National Park

Þingvellir National Park

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The Great Rift in Thingvellir National Park, Iceland, marks the boundary between the North American and Eurasian plates. The water is so clear that you can see more than 100 meters into it. The rift is still widening by 2 centimeters each year.

Itinerary details

After breakfast, we’ll first pass the magnificent Mýrdalsjökull Glacier, then cross the vast Eldhraun lava field to reach Europe’s largest 【Vatnajökull National Park】. Here, towering ice caps, deep valleys, and oases create a striking contrast between rugged wilderness and lush greenery. With a professional guide, we’ll go 【glacier hiking】 to explore the glacier and admire its astonishing formations! Glacier hiking is available in summer; from October to April, it will be replaced by a 【blue ice cave adventure】. These naturally formed ice caves feature brilliant blue hues and intricate ice sculptures. Afterwards, we’ll visit 【Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon】, where you’ll see enormous icebergs breaking off from the glacier and floating on the water. The scenery feels like a dream. Icebergs drifting from the lagoon reach 【Diamond Beach】, where they rest on the black volcanic sand like dazzling gems against a dark backdrop—a truly breathtaking sight. Overnight in southeastern Iceland. From September to April, this is an excellent place to see the Northern Lights!

Meals

Breakfast: at the hotel Lunch: at your own expense Dinner: at your own expense

Accommodation

Adventure Hotel Hof

Attraction details

Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon

Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon

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The formation of Jökulsárlón Lagoon is quite unusual. Vatnajökull has an opening here, creating the Breiðamerkurjökull glacier. At the glacier’s end lies a lake about 100 meters deep. Huge chunks of ice continually break off the glacier and float on the lake. Shaped by wind, rain, and currents, these icebergs become natural sculptures. Taking a boat tour on Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon is a wonderful experience.

Blue Ice Cave Adventure

Blue Ice Cave Adventure

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The blue ice caves beneath Vatnajökull can only be safely accessed from November to March. Exploring this spectacular natural wonder is a must when visiting Iceland in winter. The caves form naturally and are hidden at the edge of the glacier. Ice is usually thought of as transparent, but the ice inside the caves glows like blue crystal. Our guides will decide which ice cave to visit each day based on safety and weather conditions. Remember to wear warm, heavy-duty waterproof clothing and waterproof hiking boots. On this trip, you will ride in a Super Jeep along the Ring Road to the foot of the glacier. Led by a guide, you will enjoy a 20-minute glacier hike, breathing in the fresh air and admiring the magnificent glacier scenery along the way. Then enter an ice cave and marvel at the wonders of nature.

Diamond Beach

Diamond Beach

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Giant icebergs on Vatnajökull Glacier constantly break off and melt into small pieces of ice that flow into Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon. The Atlantic Ocean then washes them onto the black beach opposite the lagoon. These ice fragments are somewhat transparent and sparkle in the sunlight, contrasting sharply with the black sand like glittering diamonds. Hence the name Diamond Beach.

Itinerary details

Today we explore the spectacular East Fjords. This region is known for its steep peaks, tranquil fjords, and small coastal villages. Reindeer are sometimes spotted, and puffins can be seen on the cliffs, making the scenery feel like a world apart. Next, we head to Djúpivogur, a peaceful fishing village on the edge of a fjord, with only a few hundred residents and a relaxed pace of life. Closely connected to nature and committed to sustainability, the village is dotted with unique outdoor artworks. Along the way, we will also stop in Egilsstaðir, the largest town in the east. Set beside the Lagarfljót River and surrounded by forests and hills, it has a peaceful, mysterious atmosphere. After that, we will visit the Wilderness Center, located on the edge of Iceland’s Highlands, where it feels as if time has turned back. Carefully restored old farmhouses offer a glimpse into life in the past, and the center is full of stories about the people who lived on the frontier and the untouched land around them. *During your stay, admission to the exhibitions at the Wilderness Museum is free. After exploring, get ready to enjoy a hot spring bath like a true Viking! The bathhouse is designed in a traditional style, and the stone hot spring pools are just like those used by our ancestors.

Meals

Breakfast: at the hotel Lunch: at your own expense Dinner: at your own expense

Accommodation

Wilderness Center or similar

Itinerary details

Today we head north, where many awe-inspiring sights await along the way. First is Stuðlagil Canyon, where towering basalt columns rise straight from the emerald river. The contrast between the black geometric rock formations and the blue-green water is unforgettable. Next, we visit the mysterious Námaskarð geothermal area. Colorful mud pools bubble with mineral deposits, while sulfur-scented steam rises slowly from fumaroles, creating an otherworldly scene. Then we circle peaceful Lake Mývatn, known for its unique volcanic landscapes and abundant birdlife. More than 50 small islands formed by volcanic activity dot the shallow lake. You can relax in the mineral-rich waters of the Mývatn Nature Baths (optional, at your own expense) and enjoy the tranquil beauty of northern Iceland. Next, we visit the Dimmuborgir rock formations, famous for their dramatic “troll-like” appearance. Known as the “Dark Fortress,” this area features towering lava pillars left behind when a massive lava tube collapsed long ago. Finally, we visit the dreamlike crescent-shaped Goðafoss waterfall before heading to the beautiful Eyjafjörður fjord. Overnight at a country hotel in Akureyri. *Please note that winter road conditions may affect access to Stuðlagil, but we will offer an alternative activity. Your safety and satisfaction are our top priorities. Thank you for your understanding.

Meals

Breakfast: at the hotel Lunch: at your own expense Dinner: at your own expense

Accommodation

Berjaya Akureyri Hotel or similar

Attraction details

Godafoss

Godafoss

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Godafoss (also known as the Waterfall of the Gods) is said to have gotten its name in the year 1000. Thorgeir was given the important task of deciding whether Icelanders should adopt Christianity. After making his decision, he returned home and threw his household’s pagan idols into this waterfall.

Mývatn Nature Baths

Mývatn Nature Baths

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This is another of Lake Mývatn’s highlights—the geothermal hot springs. The water in these underground springs stays at around 27°C year-round, making them suitable for bathing in every season. Further east, you’ll find many fissures along both sides of the road, with plumes of steam billowing from the openings amid yellow fumes.

Itinerary details

After breakfast, enjoy a whale-watching tour from Dalvík (from mid-May to the end of September, whale watching is from Akureyri; from October onward, it is from Dalvík. The actual whale-watching location depends on the arrangements). If you’re lucky, you may see marine life such as humpback whales, dolphins, and porpoises. We then head to Siglufjörður, Iceland’s northernmost town, famous for its colorful harbor. It was Iceland’s herring capital in the early 20th century and was once bustling with activity. As we travel around Tröllaskagi (the Troll Peninsula), you’ll enjoy some of Iceland’s finest coastal scenery and ski areas. We’ll also pass through active farming areas and learn more about rural life in Iceland. Next, we explore the picturesque Skagafjörður, a fjord dotted with islands and full of secrets. Overnight in the Laugarbakki area. On winter nights, you can step outside the hotel and chase the brilliant lights in the sky, experiencing a magical display of green and purple.

Meals

Breakfast: at the hotel Lunch: at your own expense Dinner: at your own expense

Accommodation

Hotel Laugarbakki or similar

Itinerary details

After breakfast, we head to western Iceland, where the Borgarfjörður region is home to many spectacular sights. First, take a short hike up the Grábrók crater for views over the surrounding lava fields. After the hike, we head to the historic site of Reykholt to see Snorri Sturluson’s hot spring pool. He was an important figure in Icelandic history and the author of the Icelandic sagas. Next, we visit Deildartunguhver, Europe’s most powerful hot spring. Its abundant geothermal water is essential to the people of Borgarfjörður, supplying swimming pools, heating, and hot water. Next, we visit Hraunfossar, where countless small streams pour out of a lava field to create a breathtakingly beautiful scene. A short walk takes us to Barnafoss, also known as “Children’s Falls,” named after a tragic event in local legend. We will also stop at Sturlureykir Horse Farm, where you can get up close with friendly Icelandic horses and learn about these fascinating animals, so closely connected to life in Iceland. On the return journey to Reykjavík, we will follow the scenic route along Hvalfjörður (Whale Fjord). We expect to arrive between 5 and 6 p.m. and will drop you off at your original pickup point.

Important notes

Note: All times shown on this webpage are for reference only. Actual arrival times may be delayed due to circumstances beyond our control, such as weather, traffic congestion, traffic accidents, festivals or sporting events, civil unrest, or strikes. We appreciate your understanding. If you have onward travel plans involving other transportation to another city, we strongly recommend allowing at least 3 hours of extra time to avoid inconvenience caused by delays. Our company accepts no responsibility for losses arising from travel arrangements you make yourself without allowing sufficient extra time. Thank you for your understanding.

Meals

Breakfast: at the hotel Lunch: at your own expense Dinner: at your own expense

Accommodation

None