4 days
Best of Iceland - Winter Special - 2-Day Golden Circle, South Coast, and Northern Lights Tour
- 2 days
- Guided small-group
This two-day tour covers Iceland's top sites, including the Golden Circle, South Coast, and a Northern Lights hunt. Discover stunning waterfalls, geothermal wonders, black sand beaches, and Iceland's rich history.
Trip highlights
- Visit Gullfoss Waterfall, where water dramatically plunges into a canyon, showcasing nature's raw power.
- Witness the explosive eruptions of Strokkur geyser, a stunning display of geothermal force.
- Explore Þingvellir National Park, the historic site of Iceland's first parliament.
- Chase the Northern Lights for a breathtaking nighttime spectacle.
- Walk behind Seljalandsfoss's cascading waters and climb Skógafoss for expansive views.
About this trip
Experience Iceland in its purest form with our all-in-one winter tour package, blending three essential excursions into a single, unforgettable journey. This package allows you to explore Iceland's wonders from your base in Reykjavík, encompassing the fabled Golden Circle and the dramatic South Coast.
Start your tour with the majestic Gullfoss Waterfall, where vast volumes of water thunder into a deep canyon, a reminder of the island's dynamic geological past. The adventure continues with a visit to Strokkur, a lively geyser that regularly shoots boiling water high into the air, providing a spectacular demonstration of geothermal energy.
Next, step into the historic Þingvellir National Park, the founding site of Iceland’s first parliament and a national heritage symbol, where the Declaration of Independence was made in 1944. As the evening shadows grow, we set out to chase the Northern Lights, those elusive natural wonders that dance across the nocturnal skies.
The adventure doesn’t stop there. The next day, we head to the South Coast to explore more natural marvels. Journey past waterfalls, where you can venture behind the cascading water at Seljalandsfoss and climb to the top of Skógafoss for stunning vistas.
The tour concludes at the striking Black Sand Beach at Reynisfjara and the scenic village of Vík, offering a picturesque end to a remarkable exploration of Iceland’s most storied landscapes.
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: Exploring the Golden Circle
Þingvellir National Park
Duration: 2 hours
Begin your Icelandic adventure at Þingvellir National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its stunning rift valley views and profound historical significance. It's the site of the world’s oldest parliament, established in 930 AD, and features the Almannagjá Canyon, where the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates visibly separate.
Geysir Hot Springs
Duration: 1.5 hours
Next, visit the Geysir Hot Spring Area, home to the active Strokkur geyser. It erupts every few minutes, sending a spectacular jet of hot water and steam up to 30 meters into the air. This geothermal wonderland also offers refreshments and a break at the newly opened Geysir Center.
Gullfoss Waterfall
Duration: 1 hour
Continue to Gullfoss, one of Iceland’s most majestic waterfalls, where glacier runoff thunders into a deep canyon in three spectacular tiers. On sunny days, the mist creates shimmering rainbows over the falls, making for unforgettable views.
Northern Lights Hunt
Duration: 3-4 hours (weather dependent)
Cap off the day with a thrilling Northern Lights hunt. After returning to Reykjavik, venture into the night led by expert guides to chase the elusive aurora borealis, sharing in the magic and mystery of this natural phenomenon.
Day 2: South Coast Wonders
Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss Waterfalls
Duration: 2 hours (1 hour each)
Start the day with a visit to Seljalandsfoss, where you can walk behind the waterfall for a unique perspective. Continue to Skógafoss, one of Iceland’s biggest waterfalls, and climb the adjacent stairs for panoramic views of the cascading water and the coastal landscape.
Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach
Duration: 1 hour
Travel to Reynisfjara, renowned for its dramatic black sand beach, towering basalt columns, and powerful waves of the North Atlantic. This striking location also features a large basalt cave, with facilities nearby for a quick snack or restroom break.
Vík í Mýrdal
Duration: 1.5 hours
Visit the charming town of Vík, Iceland’s southernmost village. Famous for its picturesque church set against a backdrop of sea cliffs and the iconic Reynisdrangar sea stacks, enjoy lunch, explore the local shops, and take in the stunning views of the surrounding beaches.
Skógafoss Waterfall
Duration: 1 hour
On the return journey, make another stop at Skógafoss to capture different views of the waterfall’s mighty descent and the surrounding landscapes. This stop offers another chance for photographers to snap the perfect shot.
Seljalandsfoss Encore
Duration: 1 hour
Conclude the tour with another visit to Seljalandsfoss. This time, experience the waterfall from different angles, and if you're up for it, explore the hidden pathway behind the waterfall, providing a unique vantage point that completes this immersive Icelandic tour.
This two-day itinerary covers some of Iceland’s most iconic landscapes and natural phenomena, combining historical insights, natural beauty, and the adventure of a lifetime.
What’s included
- Enjoy the insights and stories from both a local guide and a Northern Lights specialist.
- Entry fees to all tour attractions are covered.
- Learn how to capture the Northern Lights effectively with lessons on smart tablets.
- Receive guidance on how to set your camera for night sky photography.
- If the Northern Lights aren't visible, you can join another tour for free.
- Stay connected and charged with free Wi-Fi and USB chargers onboard at each seat.
- Listen to the in-bus audio guide available in 10 different languages.
Good to know
Accessibility
- The tour is unsuitable for those with limited mobility, as it involves walking on uneven terrain and climbing stairs.
- If you have any special needs or requirements, please let us know in advance so we can accommodate you.
Additional Information
- Bring warm, waterproof clothing, sturdy footwear for exploring outdoors, and a camera to capture landscapes and Northern Lights sightings.
- Pack snacks or a lunch, and bring cash or a credit card for personal expenses or optional activities.
- The tour operates in all weather conditions, and any cancellations due to extreme weather are fully refunded.
- Please follow instructions from your guide regarding safety precautions and respecting the natural environment.
Frequently asked questions
What is included in the tour price?
Meals are not included, but there will be stops for restroom use and food. Guests can also bring their own snacks or packed lunch.
The tour covers transportation, an English-speaking guide, pick-up and drop-off at designated locations, and entrance fees to the listed sites.
You can modify your booking by contacting customer service up to 24 hours before departure. Changes depend on availability and may incur fees.
Are meals included in the tour?
What should I wear for the tour?
Can I bring my own headphones for the audio guide?
Yes, bringing your own headphones is encouraged for a better experience and to reduce waste. Earphones can be purchased onboard if needed.
Keep exploring
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