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Ultimate Ring Road Adventure: 6 Days Around Iceland

If you’re after the ultimate Iceland experience, you’ve just struck gold. We’re taking the classic Ring Road tour and cranking it up a notch over 6 days! On top of Iceland’s best-ofs—including the Golden Circle, the South Coast, and Vatnajökull—we’ll go whale watching, do a glacier hike, bathe in geothermal hot springs, and more! We’ll roam through Iceland’s untamed wilderness during the day, and then retreat to the coziest hotels by night. No stress, no fuss, we’ll take care of everything. Buckle up, this will truly be the ride of a lifetime.

Adventure highlights

  • Step into otherworldly landscapes
    Black sand beach, sparkling blue ice cave, towering basalt columns, lava fields, steaming vents—it’s all part of the trip
  • Unique stays in the wild
    We’ll stay in cozy, handpicked hotels tucked away in Iceland’s wildest corners, offering comfort and local character (and saunas and hot pools!)
  • Iceland’s Ring Road & Golden Circle
    This adventure is the real deal—everything you’ve been dreaming about, searching for, and saving to your bucket list, we’re bringing to life

Itinerary

If there’s one Iceland trip you’ve got to experience, it’s this one. All the country’s highlights, including the Ring Road, the Golden Circle, and the South Coast—in one! This Iceland Ring Road tour takes us from iconic waterfalls and glaciers to volcanic wonders and coastal villages, covering the country's most breathtaking sights. Along the way, we’ll explore hidden gems, dramatic landscapes, and natural wonders before returning to Reykjavík. All accommodation, breakfasts, and transfers are included, as well as whale watching, glacier hike or exploring ice caves!

  • Be ready for pick-up at your designated location in Reykjavík at 8am. Our first day is dedicated to exploring Iceland’s most famous sightseeing route—the Golden Circle. We begin at Þingvellir National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site where Icelanders established Althing, one of the world’s oldest democratic parliaments, in 930 CE. This rift valley marks the divide between the Eurasian and North American plates, creating a dramatic landscape.

    Next, we visit Geysir, the namesake of all geysers, and its active neighbor, Strokkur, which erupts every few minutes 20-30 m (65-98 ft) into the air. The surrounding area is alive with bubbling fumaroles and steaming vents. We then witness the Gullfoss waterfall, where glacial waters from the Langjökull glacier plunge into a rugged canyon. Continuing along the scenic south coast, we stop at Seljalandsfoss, where a path lets us walk behind the cascading water, and Skógafoss, a towering 197-ft (60-m) waterfall often framed by rainbows. Reynisfjara’s black sand beach is our final stop, home to striking basalt columns and sea stacks. We’ll spend the night at a cozy country hotel near Kirkjubæjarklaustur—an ideal spot for catching the Northern Lights between September and April!

    Accommodation: Adventure Hotel Geirland or similar

    Skogafoss South Coast
  • Today’s journey focuses on Iceland’s glaciers and dramatic landscapes. We begin by passing Mýrdalsjökull glacier, which hides the Katla volcano beneath its ice, and then cross the vast Eldhraun lava field, covered in thick moss from one of the largest eruptions in history. Our main stop is Vatnajökull National Park, home to Europe’s largest glacier. This massive ice cap dominates the landscape, surrounded by deep valleys and green pockets like Skaftafell. Here, we’ll take a guided glacier hike, exploring ice formations, crevasses, and the striking blue ice. In winter, this is replaced by a visit to the Crystal Ice Cave, where natural ice tunnels create an otherworldly experience.

    After the glacier adventure, we visit Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon, where icebergs break off from the Breiðamerkurjökull glacier and float across the lagoon’s still waters. The icebergs eventually drift to Diamond Beach, where they rest on black volcanic sand, creating a beautiful contrast. This stop is a favorite for photography and taking in the quiet beauty of the area. After a day of exploring Iceland’s icy wonders, we stay in the Southeast, a great location for spotting the Northern Lights from September through April.

    Meals: Breakfast
    Accommodation: Adventure Hotel Hof

    Glacier hike Iceland sunny
  • Today’s journey takes us through the remote and beautiful Eastfjords, a region known for its towering mountains, quiet fjords, and small fishing villages. The untouched landscapes here are home to wildlife like reindeer and seabirds, creating a peaceful and authentic Icelandic experience. Along the way, we visit Djúpivogur, a small fishing village with a strong focus on nature and sustainability, where outdoor artwork adds character to the scenic surroundings. We also stop in Egilsstaðir, the largest town in East Iceland, located by the Lagarfljót River—home to local legends about a mysterious lake creature.

    The highlight of the day is the Wilderness Center, a unique accommodation on the edge of Iceland’s highlands. Designed to feel like a step back in time, the center features carefully restored farmhouses and exhibitions that share stories of the people who once lived in this remote frontier. Guests can explore the museum (free of charge) and enjoy homemade meals in an open kitchen. After exploring, get ready for soaking in the hot spring spa like a real Viking! The bathhouse is built in an authentic style, with a traditional stone hot spring spa, just like the one our ancestors used.

    Meals: Breakfast
    Accommodation: Wilderness Center

    Museum in Iceland in the east
  • Today’s journey takes us from East to North Iceland, passing through some of the country’s most striking natural wonders. We begin at Stuðlagil Canyon, where towering basalt columns rise from the turquoise waters of the Jökla River, creating a dramatic contrast between the dark rock formations and vibrant blue-green water. From there, we head to the Námaskarð geothermal area, a surreal landscape filled with bubbling mud pools, steaming fumaroles, and colorful mineral deposits. The air is thick with the scent of sulfur, adding to the otherworldly atmosphere.

    Continuing on, we explore the Lake Mývatn region, known for its volcanic landscapes, diverse birdlife, and over 50 small islands shaped by past eruptions. As an optional stop, travelers can soak in the Mývatn Nature Baths, a relaxing geothermal lagoon often compared to the Blue Lagoon. Next, we visit Dimmuborgir, an area of towering lava formations that resemble an ancient, crumbling city. The day ends with a stop at Goðafoss, a stunning crescent-shaped waterfall, before reaching Eyjafjörður, a fjord surrounded by high mountains. Our final destination is Akureyri, North Iceland’s largest town, where we settle into a country hotel for the night. From September to April, this is also a great spot for viewing the Northern Lights.

    *Please note that during winter, road conditions may restrict access to Stuðlagil. However, we will ensure alternative exciting activities are available for you to enjoy!

    Meals: Breakfast
    Accommodation: Berjaya Akureyri Hotel

    Studlagil in East Iceland
  • Today, get ready for an exciting whale-watching boat tour in Eyjafjörður Fjord! With a 98% success rate, you’re very likely to spot humpback whales, dolphins, porpoises, and other incredible ocean wildlife. Afterward, we head to Siglufjörður, Iceland’s northernmost village, known for its colorful harbor and rich history as the herring capital in the early 20th century.

    Next, we travel around Tröllaskagi (the Troll Peninsula), where you’ll enjoy some of Iceland’s most stunning coastal views and pass through small villages that showcase the charm of remote Icelandic life. As we continue, we’ll pass through active farming areas before reaching Laugarbakki, where we’ll explore the rural landscape. We’ll also stop at the picturesque Skagafjörður fjord, dotted with islands and full of hidden treasures. Our accommodation for the night is a cozy hotel in the Laugarbakki area, where, during winter, you can head out in the evening to witness the spectacular Northern Lights painting the sky in shades of green and purple.

    Meals: Breakfast
    Accommodation: Hotel Laugarbakki

    Whale watching in Iceland
  • On our final day, we explore the stunning landscapes of West Iceland, an area praised by Lonely Planet as one of the best travel destinations. Our day begins with a short hike up to the Grábrók volcano crater, offering fantastic views of the surrounding lava fields. After the hike, we visit Reykholt, a significant historical site, where we’ll see Snorralaug, the hot spring pool of the famous Icelandic historian and author, Snorri Sturluson.

    Next, we head to Deildartunguhver, Europe’s most powerful hot spring, which provides geothermal water to heat homes and swimming pools in the Borgarfjörður region. Then, we visit Hraunfossar, a breathtaking waterfall where streams flow from the Hallmundarhraun lava field, followed by Barnafoss, or “Children’s Falls,” steeped in local legend. We’ll also make a stop at Sturlureykir horse farm to interact with the friendly Icelandic horses and learn about their importance in Icelandic culture. On our way back to Reykjavík, we’ll take the scenic route around Hvalfjörður (Whale Fjord) and expect to arrive in the capital around 5-6pm, where we’ll drop you off at your original pick-up point.

    Meals: Breakfast

    Hraunfossar in Iceland
  • Note that your chosen tour dates are not guaranteed until confirmed by your guide. If availability is limited, your guide may suggest alternative dates a day or two before or after—so just make sure not to make any travel arrangements until confirmed.

Adventure brochure
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Meet your guide

Arctic Adventures
5.00
Arctic Adventures
Certified Guides
The Arctic Adventures family consists of adventurous and highly qualified people from all over the world. Some people are passionate river rafters or mountain climbers, while others really thrive on numbers and calculations. There is one thing, though, which they all have in common: a tremendous love and passion for outdoor adventures and total respect for nature. 

Accommodation

5.00(10 reviews)
M
Marina Crassaris

Fantastic 6-Day Ring Road Tour with Summer Glacier Hike and Winter Ice Caving – As it says on the tin. Fantastic. Did it with my 12yo son who enjoyed it as much as I did. Our guide Sigurður was very knowledgeable and interesting. He was also very quick to find alternatives to replace the sites we couldn’t visit if the weather was too bad, or add some stops if we had more time. We were lucky to be a small group so the mini bus was very comfortable but i can imagine how it would get too much if it was full especially with all the bags and 4 seats at the back that are quite narrow and from where you can not really enjoy the view while on the road. All accomodations were nice and clean. Especially the wilderness centre that is worth the drive. All in all I highly recommend this tour. My son and I had an unforgettable adventure.

A
Aparajita Roy

I was very fortunate to be in a group of 7 awesome people and our guide Sigi. Weather was a bit problematic but that’s expected in Icelandic winter. But we went to see the geysers, waterfalls, beaches, lagoons, whale watching and a geothermal spa and also went for the largest ice cave .Thanks to our wonderful guide Sigi to keeps our spirits high even in the terrible weather. The hotels and bus was comfortable. Can’t ask for more. I’m very happy with my trip. I wish to go for the other Iceland tours also that arctic adventures arranges

T
Taylah C

Amazing time around Iceland, I really feel like we’ve seen all the best the country has to offer and it didn’t feel rushed at any point. We were very lucky with the weather which you can never control but we got to see the northern lights and stratospheric clouds which was cool. Highlights were certainly the golden circle and Godafoss waterfall as well as the ice cave and super jeep riding. Iceland is stunning in the winter and even in early January you get enough light from 10-5 each day so it does not feel rushed. Our guide was very informative and I liked learning more about the country, history and people. You never spend more than 1 hour on the bus without a scenic stop somewhere. All the accomodation was comfortable and warm. Breakfasts every morning were filling and a mix of traditional hot English and icelandic foods.

Show all reviews
5.00(10 reviews)
M
Marina Crassaris

Fantastic 6-Day Ring Road Tour with Summer Glacier Hike and Winter Ice Caving – As it says on the tin. Fantastic. Did it with my 12yo son who enjoyed it as much as I did. Our guide Sigurður was very knowledgeable and interesting. He was also very quick to find alternatives to replace the sites we couldn’t visit if the weather was too bad, or add some stops if we had more time. We were lucky to be a small group so the mini bus was very comfortable but i can imagine how it would get too much if it was full especially with all the bags and 4 seats at the back that are quite narrow and from where you can not really enjoy the view while on the road. All accomodations were nice and clean. Especially the wilderness centre that is worth the drive. All in all I highly recommend this tour. My son and I had an unforgettable adventure.

A
Aparajita Roy

I was very fortunate to be in a group of 7 awesome people and our guide Sigi. Weather was a bit problematic but that’s expected in Icelandic winter. But we went to see the geysers, waterfalls, beaches, lagoons, whale watching and a geothermal spa and also went for the largest ice cave .Thanks to our wonderful guide Sigi to keeps our spirits high even in the terrible weather. The hotels and bus was comfortable. Can’t ask for more. I’m very happy with my trip. I wish to go for the other Iceland tours also that arctic adventures arranges

T
Taylah C

Amazing time around Iceland, I really feel like we’ve seen all the best the country has to offer and it didn’t feel rushed at any point. We were very lucky with the weather which you can never control but we got to see the northern lights and stratospheric clouds which was cool. Highlights were certainly the golden circle and Godafoss waterfall as well as the ice cave and super jeep riding. Iceland is stunning in the winter and even in early January you get enough light from 10-5 each day so it does not feel rushed. Our guide was very informative and I liked learning more about the country, history and people. You never spend more than 1 hour on the bus without a scenic stop somewhere. All the accomodation was comfortable and warm. Breakfasts every morning were filling and a mix of traditional hot English and icelandic foods.

R
Robyn J

Right around Iceland in winter was such a treat. The dark days delivered secrets and spectacles that will stay with me forever. The bus was warm, the accommodation was beautifully diverse, from comfortable hotels to unique farm stays. All added to the feeling that we were really seeing what life in Iceland is like. Along side the spectacular scenery, our guide Vjeran was an addition that absolutely made our trip. He was passionate about the country, provided us, with stories of trolls and elves, alongside facts and details. Recommendations of not only where, but what to eat, made us feel like we were getting some special secret insights. From the first pick up to the final drop off he had us laughing and learning the whole way. His energy and enthusiasm is endless. This is a must do trip.

D
Denis Ho

It was a wonderful tour with the experienced tour guide, Vignir! Vignir was the replacement guide on the 3rd day as our original tour guide, Magnus who was one of the worst guide I met. Vignir told us many many history of Iceland and many his stories so that we could understand as much as possible the background of every attractions. Vignir was very gentle with very nice smile and patience to all of us. He brought us to many amazing places! I love the tour, especially the 1st sunrise in 2025 and whale watching tour. Unforgettable!

L
Luc Marceau

I highly enjoyed my 6-days around Iceland in small group adventure. Driver/guide was LOCAL and awesome, minibus with trailer were in A1 shape, schedule was perfect and it was great to have people from all over the place as fellow travelers. Meeting point in Reyjkavik was across the street from my guesthouse <3

S
Saman Saleem

We had an amazing time with Jói on our 6 day ring road tour. He was very knowledgable about the area and had some very funny stories to tell about his and his family’s lives in Iceland. Having dinners with him was so much fun too as we got the relax and have some great conversations. Iceland is a beautiful country to it’s hard to hate anything about the locations. As promised our stays were in some isolated spots that allowed for some perfect viewing opportunities for the northern lights without going far! I only have one complaint and that was for the stay at the Wilderness center where we were forced to separate into different rooms for dinner based on the meal we chose. Literally my husband and I were forced to eat separately and I was stuck on a table with 3 people eating silently as I really didn’t know them. I am all for family style eating but can we just be allowed to sit where we want and have all the meal options available on one table. Great time overall and would definitely recommend to others!

A
Andrew T

Our small bus guide Vjeran was very efficient and excellent at taking us to extra magnificent places to see on top of our itinerary. Vjeran was kind and knowledgeable about all of the places we visited. Vjeran also knew the sweet spots on taking couples photos.

R
Rolando Calderon

The tour was everything I hope for and more! The tour guide was very kind and help make the tour a lot better!

K
KTB

Great tour. Saw so many stunning sights including the Northern Lights. Our guide Sindri was fantastic and constantly shared stories to keep us entertained during the drives. The trip was a bit impacted by the weather but overall we had a fantastic time.

Things to know

  • Included:

      • An experienced guide with extensive knowledge of the area
      • 6-day Iceland Ring Road tour (including Golden Circle, the South Coast, Glacier Lagoon, and more)
      • Accommodation for 5 nights at a 3-star hotel (private bathrooms, twin rooms)
      • Pick-up in Reykjavík
      • Drop-off in Reykjavík or Borgarnes
      • Breakfast each morning at hotels
      • Transportation during the tour in a minibus
      • Free WiFi on the bus
      • All required safety equipment
      • Activities in Wilderness Center
      • Glacier hike on Vatnajökull Glacier (April through October)
      • Crystal ice cave (October through April)
      • Whale watching in Eyjafjörður
      • Myvatn Nature Baths entrance

    Add-ons (possible to add at checkout)

      • Equipment rental
      • Single supplement — $490

    Not included:

      • Flights to Iceland
      • Lunches and dinners
      • Guide gratuities — optional
      • Travel and medical insurance — optional
  • This Iceland Ring Road tour is perfect for beginners and anyone aged 8 and up! A basic level of fitness is all you need, as most activities involve leisurely walks at Iceland’s top sights—you’ll do the Ring Road as well as the Golden Circle tour in Iceland. Glacier hiking or Crystal Ice Cave visit as well as a short hike are a part of the itinerary, but no experience is necessary.

    If you’d rather skip out on glacier hiking (October through April), a journey through the Crystal Ice Cave (April through October), and whale watching, it’s actually possible to get a discounted rate without these activities—you can choose this at checkout.

    For more hiking adventures in Iceland powered by local guides, click here!

  • Here’s a list of the equipment you need to bring:

      • Day pack large enough to carry everything you might need throughout the day (around a 25-40L bag)
      • Water bottle or hydration bladder (2L capacity)
      • Hiking poles
      • Lightweight hiking boots
      • Comfortable and warm hiking clothes
      • Spare clothes for layering
      • Waterproof rain jacket
      • Waterproof pants
      • Sunhat
      • Toiletries (sunscreen, hand sanitizer, bug spray, tissues, etc.)
      • Headlamp or flashlight
      • Sunglasses
      • Camera — optional (but recommended)

    Dress comfortably and for the weather in clothes you can move in. We suggest bringing clothing appropriate for the season. Layers are best and don’t wear jeans.

    Hiking boots, waterproof jacket, waterproof pants, hiking poles, and crampons can be rented with your guides at checkout.

    As for the luggage limit on this Iceland Ring Road tour, please stick to one small backpack and one piece of luggage weighing a maximum of 20 kg (44 lbs).

  • The hotels you’ll be staying at during this Iceland Ring Road tour are generally in remote locations, making them perfect for northern lights viewing. If the forecast is favorable, there’s a great chance you’ll witness the mesmerizing display of dancing auroras during your trip. Many hotels even offer a northern lights wake-up call upon request if the lights appear.

    Still, as the northern lights are a natural phenomenon, we can’t guarantee a sighting. Their visibility depends on atmospheric and weather conditions. The best time to see the northern lights is between September and March when the nights are longest and skies are clear—far from city lights, exactly where you’ll be!

    Find out more about northern lights in Iceland and your chance of seeing them!

  • This Iceland Ring Road tour takes you to some of the country’s most breathtaking natural wonders, covering both famous landmarks and hidden gems. Along the journey, you’ll explore the iconic Golden Circle tour in Iceland, including Thingvellir National Park, Geysir geothermal area, and Gullfoss waterfall. From there, you’ll head south to witness the stunning Seljalandsfoss and Skogafoss waterfalls, the black sand beach of Reynisfjara, and the glacier lagoon of Jokulsarlon with its floating icebergs. You’ll also have the chance to visit Vatnajokull National Park and embark on a glacier hike or explore the mesmerizing Crystal Ice Cave (seasonal).

    Continuing along the Eastfjords, you’ll experience remote fishing villages and dramatic coastal cliffs before arriving at the geothermal wonders of the North. Highlights include the steaming landscapes of Namaskard Pass, the volcanic Lake Myvatn area, and the powerful Dettifoss waterfall. In North Iceland, you’ll also visit the charming town of Akureyri and have the option to relax in the Myvatn Nature Baths. As you return to Reykjavik, you’ll explore the unique rock formations of Hvitserkur and pass through scenic landscapes that showcase Iceland’s raw and untamed beauty.

    Get ready for a hassle-free adventure along Iceland’s Ring Road! Just bring your sense of adventure—we’ll handle everything else.

  • On this Iceland Ring Road tour, you’ll be covering around 300 km (186 miles) per day, spending about 4-5 hours on the road. But don’t worry—it’s far from just a long drive! You’ll be stopping regularly for sightseeing, activities, bathroom breaks, and lunch, making every stretch of the journey an adventure in itself.

  • Group sizes and pricing

      • For this Iceland Ring Road tour, the usual client-to-guide ratio is 18:1.
      • It takes a minimum of 2 people for this tour to operate. The maximum group size is set at 18 participants.
      • Note that your chosen tour dates are not guaranteed until confirmed by your guide. If availability is limited, your guide may suggest alternative dates a day or two before or after—so just make sure not to make any travel arrangements until confirmed.
      • The price of this Iceland Ring Road tour is based on double occupancy. If you’d like to have a room to yourself, you can add a single supplement to your booking at checkout. If you’re traveling solo, you’ll be paired with another traveler of the same gender—a single supplement isn’t mandatory.

    Iceland Ring Road tours can be arranged for larger groups. Contact us to make arrangements.

    Min. age requirements

      • If you are older than 18, you’re good to go.
      • Minors older than 8 may be permitted to join the Iceland Ring Road Tour on a case-by-case basis, but must be in the presence of a parent or legal guardian.

    If your group has participants under the age of 18, contact us prior to booking to make arrangements.

  • To get to this Iceland Ring Road tour, fly into Keflavík International Airport (KEF), serving Reykjavik. From there, it’s best to hop on a shuttle to Reykjavik, or you can take a taxi. It takes about 45 minutes to reach Reykjavik.

    It is recommended to arrive at least one day before the tour. If you’re flying in from the U.S. or will be landing early (4-6:30am), you should be able to join the tour, but some risks would follow (i.e., if the flight gets delayed) and could miss out on the tour. This is, therefore, not recommended! Accommodation for the night prior to the tour is at your arrangement.

    At checkout, you’ll be able to choose one of your preferred pick-up spots. Note that departure time is at around 8am at these locations, and it can take about 30 minutes to pick everyone up.

  • We highly recommend that you cover all your bases with both medical and travel protection. To make your booking and traveling experience as carefree as possible, simply choose Redpoint—the official 57hours insurance partner!

    Redpoint tailors their protection packages for adventure travel, offering a comprehensive travel program, even in remote locations. Trip cancellation, natural disasters, pandemic coverage, medical evacuation, primary medical expenses—regardless of the travel interruption that may happen, Redpoint will have you covered.

    Once your booking is confirmed and your trip is paid in full, you will be offered to purchase Redpoint’s protection. If you need any help or require more information, let us know and we will be happy to help!

  • Deposits

    Secure your spot with a 30% deposit upon booking! The remaining 70% of the trip price must be paid 90 days prior to departure at the latest. If booking within 90 days of departure, the full amount is required at the time of booking.

    Cancellations

    Booking fees are non-refundable after a 48-hour grace period. During checkout, however, you can choose one of 57hours’ flexibility options—Basic, Flexible, or Super Flexible. Depending on which one you choose, a different cancellation policy will apply to your booking.

    Basic

      • If canceled within 48 hours of booking, a full refund will be issued.
      • If canceled 90 or more days before departure, a 70% refund of the total trip price will be issued.
      • If canceled within 89 days of departure, no refund will be issued.

    Flexible

      • If canceled within 48 hours of booking, a full refund will be issued.
      • If canceled 90 or more days before departure, a full refund of the total trip price will be issued.
      • If canceled 60-89 days before departure, a 50% refund of the total trip price will be issued.
      • If canceled within 59 days of departure, no refund will be issued.

    Super Flexible

      • If canceled within 48 hours of booking, a full refund will be issued.
        If canceled 60 or more days before departure, a full refund of the total trip price will be issued.
        If canceled within 59 days of departure, a 50% refund of the total trip price will be issued.
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