6 Day Around Iceland Winter Minibus Tour

Morning Pickup in Reykjavík

Your winter journey begins bright and early between 8:00–8:30 AM, when you’re picked up from your chosen location in Reykjavík. Meet your friendly guide and fellow travelers before setting off in a comfortable minibus toward Iceland’s famous Golden Circle.

Þingvellir National Park

Your first stop is Þingvellir National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Here, you can walk between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates and take in the snowy volcanic scenery. Þingvellir is also known as the birthplace of Iceland’s first parliament, established over a thousand years ago.

Haukadalur Geothermal Area

Next, you’ll visit the Haukadalur geothermal valley, home to the incredible Strokkur geyser that erupts every few minutes. Watch as boiling water shoots high into the air and feel the earth’s natural power beneath your feet. You’ll also see the Great Geysir—the hot spring that gave its name to all geysers around the world.

Gullfoss Waterfall

Continue to Gullfoss, one of Iceland’s most breathtaking waterfalls. Here, the glacial Hvítá River plunges dramatically into a deep canyon, sending mist and golden hues into the air. It’s a picture-perfect moment you won’t forget.

Optional Activity – Horseback Riding

If you’d like, you can join an optional horseback riding tour on the gentle Icelandic horses, known for their calm nature and smooth gait. Ride through quiet countryside landscapes for a peaceful end to the day.

Evening Stay – Hotel Drangslid (or similar)

After a day of exploration, relax at your cozy countryside hotel with breakfast included. Enjoy the peaceful surroundings away from city lights.

Northern Lights Hunt

When night falls, your guide will check the skies for the Aurora Borealis. If conditions are right, you may witness this magical natural show dancing above the snow-covered landscape. (Please note that Northern Lights sightings are weather-dependent and visible only from September to early April.)

Morning Pickup & Departure

After breakfast, your guide will pick you up between 8:00–9:00 AM. Today’s adventure leads you along Iceland’s spectacular South Coast—a stretch of raw beauty filled with waterfalls, glaciers, and volcanic cliffs.

Seljalandsfoss & Skógafoss Waterfalls

Begin your day with two of Iceland’s most beloved waterfalls. Walk behind Seljalandsfoss, where a shimmering curtain of water drops from 65 meters above. Then visit Skógafoss, a powerful cascade surrounded by legend and rainbows on sunny days.

Guided Glacier Hike – Sólheimajökull

Get ready for an unforgettable glacier hike on Sólheimajökull Glacier, an outlet of the mighty Mýrdalsjökull ice cap. Equipped with crampons and safety gear, you’ll walk across blue ice ridges and deep crevasses, guided by certified glacier experts.

Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach

Later, explore Reynisfjara, Iceland’s most famous black sand beach. Marvel at the striking basalt columns, sea stacks of Reynisdrangar rising from the waves, and the dramatic cliffs of Dýrhólaey. Keep an eye out for seabirds like puffins and razorbills that nest along the coast.

Evening Stay – Hvita Inn (or similar) in Vík

Your day ends in Vík í Mýrdal, Iceland’s southernmost village. Enjoy the peaceful atmosphere and a warm meal before resting up for the next day’s adventures.

Northern Lights Opportunity

If the night sky is clear, your guide will lead another Northern Lights watch. With luck, you’ll see ribbons of green and purple light dance across the horizon—a perfect way to close your second day.

Morning Pickup in Vík

After breakfast, your guide will collect you from Hvita Inn (or similar) between 8:00–9:00 AM. Today’s journey takes you east, into one of Iceland’s most stunning regions filled with glaciers, lagoons, and endless natural beauty.

Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon & Diamond Beach

Your first destination is the spectacular Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon, where massive blue icebergs drift peacefully in the icy waters below Vatnajökull Glacier—the largest in Europe. Just across the road lies Diamond Beach, where glittering ice fragments wash up on the black sand shore, creating a breathtaking contrast that photographers love.

Ice Cave Exploration

Next comes one of the tour’s highlights—an unforgettable Ice Cave experience. Depending on the season and safety conditions, you’ll explore either the crystal-blue ice caves within Vatnajökull Glacier or the otherworldly Katla Ice Cave, shaped by volcanic ash. Getting there involves an exciting Super Jeep ride, making the journey itself an adventure. Your certified guide will provide all safety equipment and fascinating insights into the glacier’s ever-changing ice formations.

Evening Stay – Hotel Höfn (or similar)

After a thrilling day among Iceland’s icy wonders, settle into your hotel in Höfn, a peaceful seaside town known for its views of the glaciers. Enjoy a warm meal, rest, and reflect on the incredible natural sights of the day.

Northern Lights Watch

Once darkness falls, your guide will check the skies for the Northern Lights. If conditions are good, step outside and enjoy the mesmerizing colors dancing over the frozen landscape—a magical end to your day. (Northern Lights are visible only from September to early April and depend on weather conditions.)

Morning Pickup in Höfn

After breakfast, your guide will meet you at Hotel Höfn (or similar) between 8:00–9:00 AM. Today’s drive leads through Iceland’s peaceful and scenic East Fjords, a region known for its dramatic coastlines and quiet fishing villages.

Scenic Drive Through the East Fjords

Enjoy a relaxed journey through winding coastal roads with ocean views on one side and snow-covered mountains on the other. The East Fjords are home to Iceland’s only herd of wild reindeer, often spotted grazing along the ridges. Your guide will share stories about the region’s fishing traditions and the strong connection between its people and the sea.

Lake Lagarfljót & Local Legends

Continue toward Lake Lagarfljót, a long and mysterious body of water surrounded by folklore. Local tales speak of the Lagarfljótsormurinn, a mythical serpent said to live beneath the surface—similar to Scotland’s Loch Ness monster. Whether or not you spot it, the scenery and stories make this stop memorable.

Optional Visit – Vök Baths

End your day with an optional visit to the beautiful Vök Baths, a geothermal spa built on a serene lake. Relax in floating pools of naturally warm water while gazing at the surrounding mountains—a perfect way to unwind after a day on the road.

Evening Stay – Hotel Valaskjálf (or similar)

Spend the night in Egilsstaðir, the main town of East Iceland. Your accommodation offers comfort, a delicious breakfast, and proximity to local sights like the Heritage Museum and Lake Lagarfljót.

Northern Lights Watch

Before turning in, join your guide for another chance to spot the Aurora Borealis. If skies are clear, the tranquil setting of East Iceland offers one of the best backdrops for this magical light show.

Morning Pickup in Egilsstaðir

After breakfast, your guide will meet you at Hotel Valaskjálf (or similar) between 8:00–9:00 AM. Today you’ll head northwest to explore some of Iceland’s most powerful waterfalls, unique geothermal areas, and striking volcanic landscapes.

Stuðlagil Canyon

Your first stop is the stunning Stuðlagil Canyon, one of Iceland’s most photogenic natural wonders. After a short walk, you’ll reach a viewpoint overlooking deep turquoise waters framed by tall basalt columns. It’s a breathtaking start to the day and a true hidden gem of the north.

Dettifoss Waterfall

Next, witness the roaring power of Dettifoss, Europe’s most forceful waterfall. Dropping 44 meters into a rugged canyon, this thunderous waterfall showcases nature’s raw strength and beauty—so impressive that it appeared in the opening scene of the movie Prometheus.

Námaskarð Geothermal Area

Continue to Námaskarð, where you’ll explore a bubbling geothermal landscape. The ground here steams and hisses with sulfur vents, mud pots, and vivid mineral colors that make you feel as though you’ve stepped onto another planet.

Dimmuborgir Lava Formations

The journey continues to Dimmuborgir, a maze of strange lava formations and natural arches created by volcanic eruptions thousands of years ago. This otherworldly area is filled with local myths and offers plenty of chances for memorable photos.

Lake Mývatn Region

Then, explore the fascinating region surrounding Lake Mývatn, known for its volcanic craters, lava fields, and birdlife. It’s one of Iceland’s most geologically rich areas, offering a blend of beauty and scientific wonder.

Goðafoss – “Waterfall of the Gods”

Before the day ends, stop at the stunning Goðafoss, a wide, horseshoe-shaped waterfall with deep cultural roots. Legend says that when Iceland converted to Christianity, pagan idols were thrown into these waters—hence its name, “Waterfall of the Gods.”

Evening Stay – Hotel Nordurland (or similar), Akureyri

Arrive in Akureyri, Iceland’s “Capital of the North.” After checking in to your hotel, you’ll have free time to stroll through the cozy downtown, explore local cafés, or simply relax after a day full of adventure.

Northern Lights Opportunity

As night falls, your guide will monitor the skies for another chance to view the Northern Lights. If the sky is clear, you may be lucky enough to see them shimmer over the northern mountains—a magical finale to your fifth day.

Morning in Akureyri

After breakfast, your guide will pick you up from Hotel Nordurland (or similar) between 8:00–9:00 AM. Begin your final day in the charming town of Akureyri, often called the “Capital of the North.” Surrounded by mountains and fjords, it’s a peaceful yet vibrant city filled with art, culture, and warm northern hospitality.

Hauganes Village

A short drive brings you to the small fishing village of Hauganes, known for its black sand beach and serene coastal views. The harbor offers a perfect starting point for today’s ocean adventure, surrounded by calm waters and towering peaks.

Whale Watching in Eyjafjörður Fjord

From Hauganes, embark on an exciting whale watching boat tour through Eyjafjörður Fjord, one of Iceland’s best whale-spotting locations. Keep your eyes peeled for humpback whales, minke whales, and playful dolphins as they breach and glide through the cold northern waters. This experience—set against stunning fjord scenery—is one of the most memorable moments of the entire tour.

Scenic Drive Back to Reykjavík

After your whale watching tour, begin your relaxing drive south toward Reykjavík. Enjoy the final views of Iceland’s countryside as you travel through valleys, coastlines, and mountains. You’ll arrive back in the capital around 8:00 PM, depending on road and weather conditions.

Tour Conclusion

Your 6-day Around Iceland Winter Adventure comes to an end in Reykjavík. You’ll return with unforgettable memories of glaciers, waterfalls, volcanoes, and the Northern Lights—an epic journey through Iceland’s winter wonderland.