8 days
8 Day Around Iceland Summer Minibus Tour
- 8 days
- Guided small-group
- Summer
Experience the best of Iceland on an 8-day guided minibus tour around the entire island. Visit stunning waterfalls, glaciers, black sand beaches, and charming northern villages while discovering the country’s diverse landscapes and rich natural beauty.
About this trip
Experience Iceland like never before on this 8-day summer minibus tour around the entire island. Starting from Reykjavík, you’ll explore the famous Golden Circle, where you can witness powerful waterfalls, bubbling geysers, and beautiful national parks. As you travel along the South Coast, enjoy the sights of dramatic black sand beaches, icy lagoons, and towering glaciers that make this region so special.
Continue through the quiet East Fjords before heading north to discover the volcanic wonders near Lake Mývatn and the lively town of Akureyri. The journey ends on the stunning Snæfellsnes Peninsula, often called “Iceland in Miniature,” where you’ll see the striking Kirkjufell mountain and breathtaking coastal views. Optional activities like horseback riding or cave exploration let you make this adventure your own while experiencing the best of Iceland’s natural beauty.
Day-by-day itinerary
A starting point, not a fixed route — request the full itinerary and we adjust it to your dates and pace.
Day 1: The Golden Circle Adventure
Begin your journey through Iceland’s legendary Golden Circle, a route that perfectly blends history, geology, and breathtaking scenery. Your first stop is Þingvellir National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site where the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates slowly drift apart. This is also where Iceland’s first parliament was established, surrounded by volcanic landscapes and serene lakes.
Next, explore the Haukadalur Geothermal Area, home to bubbling mud pools and the famous Strokkur geyser, which erupts every few minutes, sending hot water high into the sky. You’ll also spot the historic Great Geysir, the namesake for all geysers worldwide.
Finish your day at the magnificent Gullfoss Waterfall, where glacial waters thunder down into a rugged canyon. The golden mist and roar of the falls are an unforgettable sight. If you’ve chosen the optional extra, end your day on a peaceful horseback ride through Iceland’s countryside on the gentle and sturdy Icelandic horse — a perfect way to unwind after a day of natural wonders.
Please note: This optional ride may not be suitable for those over 120 kg or with limited mobility.
Day 2: The South Coast & Ice Cave Expedition
Today’s journey takes you along Iceland’s dramatic South Coast, known for its powerful waterfalls, volcanic cliffs, and black sand beaches. Begin at Seljalandsfoss, a waterfall you can walk behind for a one-of-a-kind view through the shimmering curtain of water. Continue to Skógafoss, another mighty waterfall famous for its size and frequent rainbows dancing in the mist.
Travel onward to Dyrhólaey, a spectacular coastal viewpoint with a lighthouse and natural rock arch offering stunning ocean panoramas. Nearby lies Reynisfjara, Iceland’s most famous black sand beach, where the dark volcanic sand contrasts beautifully with the white waves and tall basalt columns rising from the shore.
The highlight of the day is your Katla Ice Cave adventure. Board a powerful Super Jeep and journey across wild volcanic landscapes to reach the glacier’s hidden ice cave. Inside, you’ll discover shimmering blue ice streaked with black volcanic ash — a breathtaking reminder of Iceland’s ever-changing nature. After this thrilling experience, relax at your accommodation near Vík, surrounded by peaceful coastal views and the sound of the nearby ocean.
Day 3: The South-East & Glacier Adventure
The day begins with one of Iceland’s most thrilling experiences — a guided glacier hike. After meeting your expert guide and receiving all the essential equipment like crampons and ice axes, you’ll step onto the icy surface of a mighty glacier. As you walk across the frozen landscape, you’ll discover deep crevasses, shimmering ice formations, and a world shaped by centuries of natural power. It’s a rare chance to see Iceland’s raw and untouched beauty up close.
After your glacier adventure, visit the mesmerizing Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon, where enormous icebergs float silently toward the sea. You’ll join a short boat tour to glide among the glittering ice, watching the ever-changing shades of blue reflected in the water.
Just across the road lies Diamond Beach, where chunks of crystal-clear ice rest on black volcanic sand, sparkling like jewels under the Arctic sun. It’s the perfect place for photos and quiet moments before you settle into your cozy accommodation in Southeast Iceland.
(Note: Your guide will confirm whether this activity takes place on Day 2 or Day 3, depending on weather conditions.)
Day 4: The East Fjords & Vök Baths
Today’s route takes you through the tranquil East Fjords, one of Iceland’s most picturesque and less-traveled regions. Winding roads reveal towering mountains, peaceful fishing villages, and perhaps even a few wild reindeer grazing in the distance. The landscapes here feel timeless — a calm and beautiful contrast to the dramatic South.
Along the way, you’ll pass Lake Lagarfljót, a mysterious lake steeped in folklore. Locals tell tales of a legendary serpent-like creature said to live beneath its waters — Iceland’s answer to the Loch Ness Monster. Whether or not you believe the story, the serene views are unforgettable.
In the afternoon, you’ll have the chance to unwind at the Vök Baths, a modern geothermal spa built into a lake. Relax in naturally warm pools surrounded by stunning mountain views — a soothing way to end your day before heading to your overnight stay in East Iceland.
Day 5: Discovering the North-East
Your northern adventure begins with a visit to Stuðlagil Canyon, a hidden gem known for its brilliant turquoise river framed by striking basalt columns. After a short walk to the viewpoint, you’ll be rewarded with a breathtaking panorama of this unique geological wonder.
Continue toward the Mývatn region, a hotspot of geothermal activity and volcanic beauty. Visit Námaskarð, where bubbling mud pools and steaming vents fill the air with energy, and explore Dimmuborgir, a surreal field of lava formations shaped like twisted towers and arches. Every corner of this area tells a story of Iceland’s fiery past.
End your day with two of Iceland’s most impressive waterfalls. First, marvel at Dettifoss, the most powerful waterfall in Europe, where immense torrents crash into a rugged canyon. Then, visit the graceful Goðafoss, known as the “Waterfall of the Gods,” famous for its beauty and deep historical ties to Iceland’s early Christian heritage.
Day 6: Exploring North Iceland
Today you’ll journey through the northern reaches of Iceland, beginning in Akureyri, a lively yet cozy town known as the “Capital of the North.” After a short scenic drive, arrive at Hauganes, a charming fishing village nestled between mountains and sea. Its peaceful harbor, black sand beach, and stunning fjord views make it a perfect place to enjoy the crisp ocean air.
The highlight of your day is a whale watching tour from Hauganes. Set sail into Eyjafjörður Fjord, one of Iceland’s best locations for spotting humpback whales and other sea life. Watching these majestic creatures breach the surface against a backdrop of snowy peaks is a truly moving experience. After returning to shore, relax and enjoy the calm of the northern coast before continuing your journey southward.
Day 7: The Wonders of Snæfellsnes Peninsula
Today brings you to the incredible Snæfellsnes Peninsula, a place so varied it’s often called “Iceland in Miniature.” Begin your day at Gerðuberg Cliffs, where tall hexagonal basalt columns form an impressive natural wall. Continue to Ytri-Tunga Beach, one of Iceland’s few golden-sand beaches and a well-known spot to see playful seals lounging on the rocks.
As you travel further, explore the volcanic beauty of Djúpalónssandur Beach, where smooth black pebbles and ancient lava formations create a landscape unlike anywhere else. The towering Snæfellsjökull Glacier, said to have inspired Jules Verne’s Journey to the Center of the Earth, dominates the horizon. Your day ends with a visit to the famous Kirkjufell Mountain, a picture-perfect peak that has become one of Iceland’s most photographed landmarks.
For those seeking extra adventure, take an optional trip into the Víðgelmir Lava Cave, one of the country’s largest lava tubes. Walk through ancient lava pathways and marvel at the colorful rock formations created by volcanic eruptions thousands of years ago. Rest overnight in the Borgarnes area, surrounded by serene landscapes.
Day 8: The Treasures of West Iceland
Your final day takes you into West Iceland, a region rich in history and geothermal wonders. Begin at Deildartunguhver, Europe’s most powerful hot spring, where boiling water bursts from the ground amid red rocks and clouds of steam. Then visit Reykholt, once home to the medieval writer and chieftain Snorri Sturluson, an important figure in Iceland’s literary heritage.
Continue to the mesmerizing waterfalls of Hraunfossar and Barnafoss, two natural gems located just a short walk apart. At Hraunfossar, streams of clear water flow directly from beneath a lava field, while nearby Barnafoss rushes fiercely through a narrow canyon — together, they offer a striking mix of calm beauty and raw power.
If you missed it earlier, you can join an optional tour of Víðgelmir Lava Cave, a fascinating underground world of lava formations and ancient rock layers. After a day filled with discovery, return to Reykjavík in the late afternoon, arriving between 4:00 and 6:00 PM depending on road and weather conditions — the perfect end to your unforgettable journey around Iceland.
What’s included
- 7 nights of cozy accommodation with private bathrooms
- Daily breakfast included
- Guided glacier hike with expert guide
- All glacier gear provided
- Scenic summer boat ride among floating icebergs
- Whale watching adventure to spot gentle giants
- Super-jeep trip to explore an all-season ice cave
Good to know
Good to know
- Guests will meet in Reykjavík, either at their selected hotel or the nearest designated bus stop listed during booking.
- The suggested minimum age for this tour is 8 years due to the physical nature of some included activities.
- The glacier hike requires participants to be at least 8 years old and have a minimum shoe size of EU 34. Younger children must remain with an accompanying adult during this activity.
- The minimum age for entering the ice cave is 6 years, while optional horseback riding is suitable for guests aged 10 and above.
- In accordance with Icelandic law, children six years and under must travel in a child seat. A separate bus seat must be reserved for each child seat.
Important Information
- Solo travelers are required to pay a Single Supplement Fee, as shared rooms between single participants are not available.
- Bookings of two guests will receive a double room, while three guests will be accommodated in a triple room. Groups of four or more will receive two double rooms unless private rooms are requested for an additional charge.
- The itinerary may be adjusted due to weather, road conditions, or limited daylight hours during the winter season.
- Each participant may bring one suitcase (up to 24 inches). Extra luggage can be stored securely at the Reykjavík office for a non-refundable fee of 3,000 ISK.
- Pick-up services are available only within Reykjavík at designated stops. Collection from Keflavík Airport or locations outside the capital area is not available.
- Ice caves are natural and ever-changing formations. Each winter brings new structures and appearances, ensuring every visit offers a unique experience.
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