Explore the enchanting landscapes, rich history and vibrant culture of Iceland’s South and West regions on this small group tour with comfortable hotel accommodation in Reykjavík and the historic Haukadalur Valley. This extraordinary adventure will lead you through some of the most captivating areas of the country, where geological wonders, stunning waterfalls, dramatic sea-bird cliffs and colourful lava fields await.
Itinerary
Day 1 Reykjavik Arrival
Coach transfer from Keflavík Airport to your hotel or nearest bus stop in Reykjavik. The small city centre is characterised by eclectic and colourful houses, good shopping, dining and drinking. Reykjavik has established itself as a haven for food lovers, with numerous restaurants taking advantage of the abundance of local seafood, meat and game. Reykjavik has many wonderful museums including the National Museum displaying artefacts from the first settlement to the modern age, giving an excellent overview of Iceland's history and culture, the Reykjavik 871+2 Settlement Museum, an archaeological museum based around a 10th century Viking longhouse unearthed in 2001, the Reykjavik Art Museum and the National Gallery. Two nights in Reykjavík at Hotel Borg or similar.
Day 2 Reykjavik: City Tour, Gastronomy and Presidential residence
Meet your tour guide early morning and get ready to explore the world’s northernmost capital and its culinary delights. Learn about Reykjavík’s fascinating history and stop by its many landmarks such as the popular church of Hallgrímskirkja, The University campus, and Reykjavík’s charming harbour to observe the colourful fishing vessels, the beautiful mountain backdrop, and the spectacular Harpa concert hall. Embark on a gastronomic journey in the city, where delicious treats await. Lunch at Fiskfélagið. On to Bessastaðir, the official residence of the president of Iceland. Learn about the nation’s history and its democratic traditions while enjoying the surrounding natural beauty that typifies the Icelandic landscape. After an action-packed day of exploring, end the day at Og Natura, Iceland’s first winery and home to exquisite liquors, beer and spirits crafted with wild Icelandic botanicals. 2nd night in Reykjavík at Hotel Borg or similar.
Day 3 The Golden Circle: Geothermal Energy and Icelandic Horses
Begin the day at Kerið, one of Iceland’s most stunning volcanic craters. Featuring a perfectly round volcanic caldera with aquamarine water at the bottom, this picturesque crater is a geological wonder due to its vibrant red sediments and striking beauty. Continue to Friðheimar, an impressive greenhouse complex showcasing a tomato farm, restaurant, winery, and Icelandic horse stables. Learn about Iceland’s use of geothermal energy in agriculture and meet the Icelandic horse. Lunch at Friðheimar. Onwards to the magnificent Gullfoss waterfall, also known as the “Golden Falls”. In an incredible show of the sheer power of nature, enjoy the view of the falling waters over a 32m plunge against the backdrop of dramatic rock formations and mist. Stop at Geysir to witness the naturally occurring eruption of bubbling water 15-20m up in the air. Conclude the day with a Geothermal tasting experience. Taste rye bread freshly baked in nearby hot springs accompanied by butter, eggs and herring. There is a possibility of seeing the Northern Lights during the evening from September to mid-April. Three nights in Geysir at Hotel Geysir or similar. Dinner at the hotel tonight.
Day 4 Natural Wonders, Hot Springs and Heritage
Today’s journey will begin at Þingvellir National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site of immense historical, cultural, and geological significance. Learn about the history of the area, enjoy a walk in a dramatic rift valley formed by the separation of the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates. Home to Öxarárfoss waterfall and the beautiful Þingvallavatn lake with its surrounding lush green meadows, the park offers great photo opportunities. Continue to Hvammsvík Natural Hot Springs for a relaxing and invigorating soak, with an uninterrupted view of the Fjord and the Atlantic Ocean while immersing in the warm and therapeutic waters. Then to Efstidalur, a family-owned farm where a presentation on Icelandic dairy farming and food tasting awaits. Savour and sample delicious skyr, feta cheese, whey, and ice cream while meeting the family. In the evening, return to Geysir. 2nd night at Hotel Geysir or similar. Dinner at the hotel tonight.
Day 5 South Coast
This morning venture to the south shore of Iceland. Begin at the charming Skógar Folk Museum that features thousands of artifacts in an impressive collection encompassing fishing, farming, and cultural traditions. Then experience the world’s only live lava show in Vík - get up close to real molten lava and feel its incredible heat. Continue to the stunning jet black sands of Reynisfjara beach and its impressive basalt columns. Explore the otherworldly landscape, with its bird colonies, sea caves and view of the imposing Reynisdrangar Sea Stacks in the North Atlantic Ocean. Stop at Skógafoss waterfall which is 60m high and one of the most impressive waterfalls in the country. Continue to the high but narrow Seljalandsfoss waterfall which plunges over the mountain. 3rd night at Hotel Geysir or similar.
Day 6 Selfoss, Reykjanes Peninsula and The Blue Lagoon
Start the day at the quaint town of Selfoss for a food and history tour with lunch. Next, we head to the captivating and geologically abundant Reykjanes Peninsula. Due to its high level of volcanic activity, the peninsula has a unique landscape with numerous features like dramatic fissures, bubbling hot springs, and extensive lava fields. The first stop is at Gunnuhver, a geothermal area bursting with boiling mud pools, fumaroles, and vibrant colors from surrounding rocks and minerals that give it an otherworldly atmosphere. Continue to Iceland’s oldest lighthouse, Reykjanesviti. Perched on a rocky promontory, this enchanting monument to Iceland’s seafaring heritage is a picture-perfect location to capture scenic vistas of the coast. Slightly northwards, stop at the Bridge Between Continents, which lies on one of the world’s largest plate boundaries, that between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates. End the day at the iconic Blue Lagoon. This geothermal spa is renowned for its strikingly vivid blue-turquoise and mineral rich waters. Soak and relax surrounded by the surreal landscape of volcanic rocks and moss. After a week full of adventures, return to Reykjavík for one last night. Overnight at Hotel Borg or similar.
Day 7 Reykjavik Departure
Coach transfer from your hotel or nearest bus stop to Keflavík Airport where your tour arrangements end.
2024 departures:
08, 22 September
06, 20 October
03, 17 November
01 December
2025 departures:
05, 19 January
02, 16 February
02, 16, 30 March
13, 27 April
11, 25 May
Notes:
Maximum Group Size: 22 persons
Pre and post nights can be added in Reykjavík - please enquire
