Complete Iceland
- Tour ID: IT25
Tour Info:
- Duration: 10 Days / 9 Nights
- Seasons: Autumn,Spring,Summer
- Travel Style: Group Tours
- Countries: Iceland
- Available: May to September
This popular Ring Road tour takes you right around Iceland visiting all the main attractions of this legendary route. It’s the perfect balance of culture, nature and value.
Amongst the many attractions you’ll see are the Golden Circle, the Glacier Lagoon, Lake Myvatn, Dettifoss and Snæfellsnes Peninsula. The diversity of Iceland’s landscapes is amazing – from volcanoes and glaciers to fjords and thundering waterfalls. Along with that, we’ve included some great experiences to show you Iceland’s unique culture and geology. This tour is available in two group sizes: Classic tour with maximum 36 persons or if you prefer smaller groups, then go for the Small Group with maximum 16 persons.
Highlights:
- Classic natural wonders
- Golden Circle
- Authentic local activities
- Amazing landscapes of Snæfellsnes Peninsula
- Glacier Lagoon
Price Includes:
Pricing based on double/twin share and low season. Solo supplement available on request.
- Guided Coach Tour from day 2 to day 9
- Tour with professional local guide
- Accommodation 9 nights in a standard room with facilities
- Icelandic breakfast (except arrival day)
- Six two-course local cuisine dinners or buffet dinner
- Visit to Fridheimar Geothermal Greenhouse
- Visit to the excavated Stong Viking-age longhouse
- Microbrewery visit and beer tasting in Breiddalsvik
- Horse Show in Skagafjordur
Itinerary:
Arrive Keflavik airport, Reykjavik and transfer to your hotel (not included).
Depending on your time of arrival, you could consider adding a visit to one of the neighbourhood geothermal pools, a relaxing and refreshing way to recover after a long flight. It’s also a good way to experience daily life in Iceland. Take a stroll in the old city centre, visit a museum or simply enjoy a coffee a cosy café.
Dinner this evening is at your leisure. Reykjavik offers a multitude of restaurants and/or coffee-houses, making dinner a great way to get better acquainted with Iceland’s capital.
Sights today are the National Park with Geological Wonders, exploding geysers and waterfalls
Breakfast at your hotel. Meet your guide and start your Iceland adventure!
After a quick introductory of our home city of Reykjavik, head to Lake Thingvallavatn, Iceland’s largest lake and Thingvellir National Park. This UNESCO heritage site is where the world’s oldest continuing parliamentary government was founded in the 10th century. It is also the place where the North American and European tectonic plates meet giving you the unusual experience of walking between two continents!
Next on your journey is Gullfoss, the “Golden Waterfall”, where various walking paths give great photo-worthy views of the beautiful double-ledged cascade. You’ll also visit the nearby Geysir hot spring area to see the famous Geysir and Strokkur, as well as numerous other hot springs and boiling mud pools.
During the day you’ll get a real glimpse into Icelandic local life by visiting an Icelandic family farm where tomatoes are grown using organic geothermal energy. Tour the greenhouse and sample some of the farm’s sweet Icelandic tomatoes.
The day ends in Hveragerdi, a pretty town located in an active geothermal area where the locals have made clever use of underground hot springs to provide heat for homes, as well as greenhouses which grow flowers, fruits and vegetables.
Dinner and overnight in the Hveragerdi area.
Sights today are the Volcanic Valley, Waterfall Duo and the black sand beaches of the south shore
Explore enchanting Thjorsardalur valley with its ever-changing landscapes of birch woods, sandy lava fields, rivers and waterfalls. If the skies are clear, you’ll also see the impressive and beautiful Mt. Hekla volcano towering over the region. Visit Stong, to see a replica of a Viking-age longhouse which was buried in the volcanic eruption of Hekla. This area was a filming location for Game of Thrones Season 4.
Drive along the scenic farmlands of Iceland’s South Shore where a stop is made to admire the scenic waterfalls Seljalandsfoss and Skogafoss where each waterfall has its own charm. Continue to Dyrholaey* and the thundering waves of the Reynisfjara black sand beaches. End the day in Vik, Iceland’s southernmost town.
Dinner and overnight in the Vik area.
*Please note that Dyrholaey is closed for the bird nesting season between mid-May and the 25th of June.
Sights today are the lava fields, glacial lagoon with icebergs and Europe’s largest glacier
Today you will be in a world of glaciers where you’ll be visiting the southern area of Vatnajokull National Park, named after Europe’s largest glacier. The total park area covers almost 14% of Iceland, making it the largest national park in Western Europe. As you head east, the drive takes you through vast sand plains created by glacial outwashes. Visit the national park’s famous Skaftafell area, a site of outstanding natural beauty and enjoy the views of rich green landscapes and black sands dominated by several magnificent glaciers. You’ll also see Svinafellsjokull, one of the most beautiful glacial “tongues” which are slowly creeping down from Vatnajokull.
Next visit is Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon where you’ll enjoy the breath-taking sight of icebergs floating in the fantastic 180m (591 ft.) deep glacial lagoon. You also have the option of enjoying a boat tour amid the ice bergs (advance booking required). Located nearby the lagoon is Diamond Beach with its dramatic beauty and named for the shrinking icebergs which settle on the black sands before drifting out to sea.
Your overnight is in Hofn, a fishing port in the shadow of Vatnajokull glacier. No dinner is included this evening but Hofn has a good selection of restaurants and cafes. The local specialty is langoustines (Norway lobsters).
Overnight in Hofn.
Optional Tour: Amphibian Boat tour on the Glacier Lagoon – Sail among the drifting icebergs to see them from a different angle | Duration: 30 mins | Includes: Guided tour on amphibian boat
Sights today are Narrow Fjords, steep mountains, picturesque coastline and local microbrewery
Drive from Hofn through Almannaskard pass, stopping to admire the majestic coastline then continue to the towering mountains plunging vertically into the sea which form the magnificent East Fjords. You’ll love the amazing views so keep your camera ready. The route takes you past local villages, each with its own special history and charm. One of these is the tiny village of Breiddalsvik where your group will visit the Beljandi Microbrewery and sample some of the wonderful beer. The local community came together in 2017 to transform a rustic warehouse into a charmingly quirky brewery. You’ll meet one of the townsfolk and get a feel for life in a small Icelandic town as well as see how great beer is made.
The road brings you to Egilsstadir town, located near Iceland’s largest forest and a lake said to be home to a legendary (friendly) monster.
Dinner and overnight stay in the Egilsstadir area.
Sights today are the Highland Desert , bizarre lava formations, geothermal & volcanic wonderland
As you head towards the Lake Myvatn area, pass the empty vastness of the highland desert plateau Modrudalsoraefi, desolate and yet hauntingly beautiful. Your route takes you past the historical Modrusalsoraefi located on the highest altitude of all working farms in Iceland and continue to Dettifoss, Europe’s largest and most powerful waterfall where a stop will be made.. Continue onwards to the Namaskard pass with its boiling mud pools and vibrant colours, such a surreal place that you feel as if you’ve on another planet.
Take a walk along the pseudo craters at Skutustadir and take a peek into Grjotagja, a cave with underground hot springs; explore the peculiar lava formations at Dimmuborgir which appear to have been built by fantasy creatures. Legend has it that elves live here so you’re advised to be respectful during your visit. Finally, a view of the unusual Myvatn will give you insight into why this area has become such popular as a movie location.
Dinner and overnight stay in the Myvatn area
Sights today are the “Waterfall of the Gods”, the beautiful Troll Peninsula and the historical museum
Start your day’ with a visit to magnificent Godafoss waterfall, one of North Iceland’s most important symbols. Then on to Akureyri, the colourful northern “capital“ of Iceland. The town has charming buildings and a beautiful view of the Eyjafjordur fjord. After free time in Akureyri, continue along the coastal roads of Eyjafjordur and the Troll Peninsula, a route which runs along steep mountains and amazing views over the Arctic Sea and its black sand coastline.
Stop in Siglufjordur, a town with some of the country’s most beautiful timber buildings for a visit to the town’s award-winning Herring-Era Maritime Museum. The museum recreates the atmosphere of the early 20th century when Siglufjordur was transformed into a frontier-like boom town thanks to a large migration of herring. The museum takes you back to that exciting time.
Head along majestic mountains and narrow passes to your overnight in Skagafjordur, a scenic region full of historical sites and folk tales.
Dinner and overnight in Northwest Iceland.
Sights today are a Viking Horse Demonstration, Europe’s largest hot spring and picturesque waterfalls
Icelanders consider the Skagafjordur area to be one of the country’s finest places for horse breeding and today you’ll have an introduction to the unique Icelandic horse breed with its special fifth gait – the tolt. This horse breed has remained unaltered since Viking times.
Cross the Holtavorduheidi plateau to West Iceland, driving through Borgarfjordur, a region which has received international recognition for its lovely volcanic and wooded scenery as well as Viking history. Walk to the top of Grabrok crater for an amazing view. Listen to the powerful rushing waters of Deildartunguhver, Europe’s mightiest hot spring area. Stop to admire the beautiful Hraunfossar waterfalls, where brightly blue water rushes through black lava formations and in nearby Barnafoss, see a waterfall with even more brilliant blue colours than Hraunfossar.
Dinner and overnight stay in the Borgarfjordur area.
Sights today are Snaefellsjokull Glacier, pebble beaches, sea cliffs with birdlife and quaint fishing villages
Today you’ll explore the amazing variety of natural landscapes in Snaefellsjokull National Park. The park’s crown jewel is Snaefellsjokull glacier itself which covers a dormant volcano that last erupted in 250 AD. In addition, you’ll also see Kirkjufell, one of the most photographed mountains in Iceland. Walk along the uniquely pebbled seascape of Djupalonssandur beach. At the picturesque harbour village of Arnarstapi, you can observe magnificent basalt rocks in stacked formations.
One Icelandic Saga mentions that Snaefellsnes and that is people are protected by a benevolent half troll who lives high on the glacier. You may even find a sense of magic and healing energy in this beautiful peninsula.
At the end of the afternoon, your journey leads back to Reykjavik where you guide will bid you farewell.
Overnight stay in Reykjavik. Dinner is not included this evening so you have the opportunity to try another of Reykjavik’s many restaurants.
Check out after breakfast. Transfer to the airport can be arranged at supplementary charge.
Map:
Important Info:
An itinerary and quotation will be prepared for your consideration. Once accepted, a deposit is required to secure the booking.
For each traveller, we require:
- Full name exactly as shown on passport
- Date of birth
- Contact phone number
- Dietary, medical or other special requirements
No services are held at quotation stage and remain subject to availability until booked and confirmed. If a quoted service becomes unavailable, we will offer a suitable alternative where possible.
Deposit amounts vary by tour and supplier and will be advised before booking. Some accommodation, cruises, Christmas/New Year arrangements and special services may require higher deposits, full payment or non-refundable payment at booking.
Final payment is generally due 90 days before travel, unless an earlier date is required by a supplier. Your booking invoice will confirm the applicable payment schedule.
Where final supplier rates have not yet been released, provisional pricing may be provided. Any applicable conditions will be explained before booking.
Your confirmed itinerary will specify all inclusions. Unless stated otherwise, prices generally exclude:
- International flights
- Travel insurance
- Meals not listed
- Optional activities
- Personal expenses
- Services not specifically listed
Comprehensive travel insurance is strongly recommended as soon as the deposit is paid, particularly where components are non-refundable.
Clients receive a 20% discount with GO Insurance. Please request a quotation.
Traveller names must exactly match the passport used for travel, including all given names and surnames. Incorrect details may result in fees or difficulties with travel arrangements.
Travellers are responsible for ensuring passports meet the validity and entry requirements of all countries visited. For the Schengen Area, Australian passports generally must:
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- Be valid for at least 3 months after departure from the Schengen Area
- Have been issued within the previous 10 years
We recommend having at least 6 months’ passport validity remaining wherever possible. Travellers are responsible for obtaining required visas, travel authorisations and other entry documents. Requirements should be checked with relevant government authorities before travel.
Nordic itineraries may involve walking on snow/ice, uneven surfaces, stairs, boats, snowmobiles, carrying luggage and extended periods outdoors in cold weather. Activities may have age, height, health, mobility or licensing requirements.
Medical conditions, mobility limitations and accessibility needs should be advised at booking so suitable arrangements can be considered.
Dietary requirements and allergies should be advised at booking. We will make reasonable efforts to accommodate them, but cannot guarantee this, particularly in remote or wilderness locations. Travellers with serious allergies should also confirm requirements directly with meal providers.
Travellers on self-drive itineraries are responsible for holding the appropriate licence for the destination and rental provider. A valid physical licence may also be required for activities such as snowmobiling.
Accommodation will be booked in the room category shown on your confirmed itinerary. Scandinavian rooms may be smaller than Australian equivalents and configurations can differ.
Twin rooms commonly have two single beds, sometimes positioned together. Additional beds may be sofa or rollaway beds. Double rooms may also use two single beds together, with separate doonas.
If accommodation must change due to circumstances outside our control, we will seek a similar or higher standard wherever possible.
Porterage is generally not included. Travellers should be comfortable managing their own luggage.
Some trains, flights, coaches, ferries, transfers and vehicles have luggage limits. Any applicable restrictions will be advised in your travel documents. One manageable suitcase per person is recommended. Excess luggage charges are the traveller’s responsibility.
Scandinavian and Lapland travel can involve very cold temperatures, snow, ice and rapidly changing weather. Appropriate thermal layers, waterproof outerwear, gloves, hats and suitable footwear are essential. Summer weather can also change quickly, so rain protection is recommended.
Weather, road conditions or operational issues may require activities or transport to be delayed, modified, rescheduled or replaced. Safety takes priority, and suitable alternatives will be arranged where reasonably possible.
The Northern Lights are a natural phenomenon and cannot be guaranteed. Sightings depend on solar activity, weather, cloud cover and darkness. Tours are designed to maximise viewing opportunities but cannot guarantee a sighting.
Weather, transport schedules, supplier operations and other circumstances may require changes to accommodation, transport, activities or itinerary order. Where possible, comparable alternatives will be arranged and significant changes communicated.
Changes and cancellations are subject to supplier conditions and may incur fees. Some services are non-refundable from booking, with Christmas/New Year arrangements often having stricter conditions.
Please refer to the full Terms & Conditions and quotation for applicable cancellation conditions.
Unused services are generally non-refundable, including those missed due to late arrival, early departure or choosing not to participate. Where services are missed due to circumstances outside the traveller’s control, we will assist where reasonably possible, subject to supplier conditions.
A live digital itinerary will be provided before departure with confirmed arrangements, important information, contacts and relevant documents/vouchers. It may be updated in real time if arrangements change.
We recommend it is kept accessible and checked regularly. If an issue occurs during travel, contact the relevant supplier and our team as soon as possible so we have the best opportunity to resolve it. Delayed reporting may limit what can be done.
Travellers should provide a mobile number that will remain active while overseas. Suppliers such as hotels, transfer companies and activity providers may use this number to contact you.
WhatsApp may not be available with all suppliers, so travellers may sometimes need to make a direct local or international call. Before departure, check roaming, international calling, SIM and eSIM options with your mobile provider.
All phone, roaming, SIM and international calling costs are the traveller’s responsibility.
Price Includes:
Based on 3* twin share. Request pricing for other categories.
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