ICELAND: NORTHERN LIGHTS TOUR - 8 DAYS

NORTHERN LIGHTS, GOLDEN CIRCLE, MYVATN, HOT SPRINGS, WATERFALLS & GLACIER LAGOON

Get off the beaten path to catch the Northern Lights! Explore Iceland in 8 days on this incredible road trip on the Ring Road.

HIGHLIGHTS

Embark on a memorable tour that will take you to the best of Iceland’s highlights. You’ll see waterfalls, hot springs, ancient volcanoes and more on this 8-day guided tour from Reykjavik. Each evening on the road, you’ll spend the night in a country hotel for a chance to glimpse the elusive Northern Lights!

• South Coast (Seljalandsfoss, Reynisfjara)

• Golden Circle (Þingvellir, Gullfoss, Geysir)

• Skaftafell National Park

• Vatnajökull Glacier Hike

• Crystal Ice Cave

• Northern Lights

• Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon

• Wilderness Center

• Deildartunguhver Hot Spring

• Lake Mývatn

• Whale Watching in Dalvík

• The Diamond Beach

• Myvatn Nature Baths

itinerary & prices

Day 1 Reykjavik - Northern Lights Boat Tour
Your journey begins in the lively capital of Reykjavík. Your hotel is centrally located, providing easy access to the best museums, galleries, shopping areas, restaurants, and historic landmarks. 

Walk along the offbeat Laugavegur shopping street, one of the oldest streets in Reykjavik. Satisfy your culture craving at one of the city’s excellent museums, such as the National Museum, the Reyjavík Museum of Photography, or the Culture House. For a more eccentric cultural experience, check out the Phallological Museum, which began as one collector’s strange hobby and evolved into the world’s only museum on the subject. 

Catch a birds-eye view of Reykjavík from the iconic Hallgrímskirkja church, inspired by Svartifoss Waterfall at Skaftafell. When the sun goes down, dive into the vibrant nightlife of the capital. 

Later you will get the opportunity to hunt for the magical Northern Lights of Iceland on a boat tour! Set course for pitch-black skies, the perfect setting for the emerald light show. An expert aurora guide tells you everything you could wish to know about the lights.

You’ll spend the night at a hotel in Reykjavik.  

Day 2: Golden Circle & South Coast
On day 2, we’ll pick you up from your hotel and head straight for Iceland’s most iconic attractions. 

We start at the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Þingvellir National Park and absorb its geological, historical and cultural impact. This is the site where the historic Icelandic Parliament, Alþing, was founded in 930 CE. This governmental body is the oldest existing democratic parliament in the world. The Mid-Atlantic Ridge runs right through Þingvellir, the spot where the Eurasian and North American tectonic plates meet. 

The adventure gains steam as we head to Geysir Geothermal Area. This is the home of the famous Great Geysir, the hot spring that gave us the English word “geyser.” Witness the spectacle of Strokkur, the area’s most active geyser. Scorching water bursts from Strokkur every 5 to 10 minutes.

The final stop on the Golden Circle is Gullfoss Waterfall, or “the golden falls.”’ Observe the golden mists that surrounds the waterfall and the chaotic Hvítá river that crashes below. 

On the way to your hotel in the area near Kirkjubæjarklaustur, we’ll stop at two other stunning waterfalls: Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss. Both falls stand 196 ft (60 m)  high but possess their own distinct features. Skógafoss cascades peacefully from former sea cliffs. Seljalandsfoss hides a secret pathway that leads behind the falls, offering adventurers a rare view of nature. Adventure Hotel Geirland or similar.

Day 3: Vik - Skaftafell - Glacier Lagoon
We continue along the South Coast route to the famous Reynisfjara black sand beach. Just offshore, catch a peek at the majestic Reynisdrangar peaks that shoot out of the sea. 

We then leave the beach behind and head for icy glaciers. Embark on a three-hour hike glacier hike at Skaftafell in Vatnajökull National Park. Discover Europe’s biggest glacier, Vatnajökull, which covers 8% of Iceland’s landmass. We replace the glacier hike with a magical journey through the Crystal Ice Cave from October to April.

Along the way, witness the jaw-dropping Mýrdalsjökull Glacier, home to the infamous Katla Volcano. Mt. Katla isn’t the only fire spitfire in the region. You also will see her neighbor, the notorious Eyjafjalljökull. 

We depart from the fire and return to the ice at Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon, the most famous ice lagoon in the world. Behold crystalline blue ice-floes as they meander through the lagoon. Then we’ll walk over to Diamond Beach. Another coastline with coal-black sands, this beach is dotted with glittering blue and white icebergs washed ashore by the tide. 

Your accommodation for the evening will be in the South East area. Hofn Hotel or similar.

Day 4: East Fjords - Djupivogur - Wilderness Center
Today’s journey takes us to the picturesque East Fjords. As we drive through the eastern countryside, we’ll pass the diverse scenery of Lón, the Þvottárskriður landslides, and Álftafjarðar Fjord. 

Our first stop is the charming fishing town of Djúpivogur. This traditional community has earned a reputation for its eco-conscious efforts and welcoming attitudes. Djúpivogur may be quaint, but it also has fascinating cultural spots. 

Explore museums, parks, and sculptures. Make sure to check out the famous Eggin í Gleðivík (The Eggs of Merry Bay), a 34-piece outdoor sculpture dedicated to the area’s birdlife. 

At the end of the day, our journey leads us to the Wilderness Center, an immersive history and adventure hub located within Northern Europe's biggest wilderness. Engage in outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, and horse riding, and immerse yourself in the authentic Icelandic lifestyle. Explore the museum's exhibits on highland living and Icelandic history with complimentary admission during your stay. Unwind in cozy historic accommodations, savor local cuisine, and soothe your muscles in the warm pool at the bathing house after a day of exploration.

Finally, we make our way to Egilsstaðir, where you’ll spend the night in a country hotel. Wilderness Center or similar.

Day 5: Studlagil Canyon - Myvatn - Godafoss - Akureyri
Day 5 is devoted to the serene vistas and iconic nature of North Iceland.  

From Egilsstaðir we forge through the wilderness to reach Stuðlagil Canyon, one of the world’s most enchanting basalt rock formations.

Next, we head to mystical Lake Mývatn. We’ll wander just outside the lake to Námaskarð, a wonderland of steaming oases and bubbling craters. For more fiery views we take you to the Dimmuborgir lava formations, also known as the Dark Castles.

Next on our itinerary is a visit to the famed Mývatn Nature Baths, also known as the "Blue Lagoon of the North," a serene spa nestled near Lake Mývatn. Here, you can immerse yourself in the soothing warmth of the geothermal waters, offering a rejuvenating experience amidst Iceland's northern beauty. Whether you're lounging in the pools or exploring the saunas and relaxation areas, it's a peaceful retreat in Iceland's stunning wilderness. (Optional extra)

Our last stop before we continue to Eyjafjörður is Goðafoss, a historic waterfall. You’ll spend the night at Berjaya Akureyri Hotel or similar.

Day 6: Whale watching in Dalvik - Siglufordur - Trollaskagi - Laugrbakki
Day 6 takes you to the traditional fishing village of Dalvík. The town has a bustling harbor and stunning views over Eyjafjörður and Hrísey Island. 

Your adventure highlight is a three-hour whale-watching tour from Dalvík harbor. Marvel at majestic humpback whales, minke whales, white-beaked dolphins and, on occasion, blue whales. Dalvik whale-watching tours have a 98% success rate!

Next, we drive to Siglufjörður, a quaint fishing village with a rich history. In the early 20th century, life in the town exploded when the small, isolated community became known as the herring fishing capital of the Atlantic. 

You'll ride along Tröllaskagi (the Troll Peninsula) and pass incredible ocean panoramas and mountains. Get an inside look at daily life in tight-knit, isolated Icelandic villages when you visit Siglufjörður.

Your accommodation for the night will be in Laugarbakki. Hotel Laugarbakki or similar.

Day 7: Borgarfjordur - Reykholt - Hraunfossar - Hvalfjordur - Reykjavik - Magical Auroras
The final day before we return to Reykjavik features the phenomenal sites of West Iceland.  Lonely Planet voted this region one of their best destinations in 2016 and it remains a traveler favorite. 

Your first stop is at Grábrók, an ancient volcanic crater formed by a fissure eruption and enveloped in lava. Your guide leads you on a hike to a birds-eye view of the crater and surrounding area. 

You’ll also see the fascinating Hraunfossar cascade, a wide curtain of water made up of tiny rivulets that careen out of a lava field. Then we’ll stop at  Barnafoss waterfall, or “the children’s falls,” named for a tragic folktale. The next point of interest is Deildartunguhver Hot Spring, the most powerful hot spring in Europe.  

History, literature, and nature meet in Reykholt, home of Snorri Sturluson, a famous Icelandic saga writer and poet. Gaze into the natural pool of Snorralaug, where Snorri is said to have bathed. 

Our ride back to Reykjavík takes us through the scenic Hvalfjörður (“whale fjord”).  We arrive back in the city at approximately 5 – 6 pm and drop off you at a hotel in Reykjavik. 

Once you’re back in the city, leave the bright lights behind on a hunt for the Northern Lights. Our minibus tour takes you deep into the wilderness for the best views of the aurora. Our expert guides check the aurora forecast to find the best place to marvel at this spectacular light phenomenon. Hotel Island or similar.

Day 8: Final day in Reykjavik 
We return to Reykjavík for one last chance to explore the vibrant capital. Wander down new paths on foot or by bike. Haven’t had your fill of Iceland’s natural scenery? Seltjarnarnes and Mosfellsbær are both mountain-view peninsulas easily reached by bus from Reykjavik.

Visit the Reykjavík Botanical Gardens for a snapshot of Iceland’s biodiversity. Discover the hot spring pools where women in Reykjavík used to do their laundry. These impressive gardens grow next to Laugardalslaug, Iceland’s largest swimming pool. 

Whether you want to take in more nature, shop, relax in coffee shops or restaurants, check out another museum, or embark on one final day trip – it’s up to you!

Single room supplement is extra. Please contact us for Single travel alone and Single room supplement.

INCLUSIONS

• Hotel room with private bathroom (7 nights)

• Breakfast each morning at hotel

• Guided minibus tour

• Free Wi-Fi onboard the bus

• Whale Watching in Dalvík

• Glacier Hike or visit to a Natural Ice Cave

• Free photos with the Northern Lights

• In case of unsuccessful Northern Lights viewing, unlimited re-tries valid for 3 years

  
  

  WHAT TO BRING

• Warm outdoor clothing

• A waterproof jacket and pants

• Headwear

• Gloves

• Good hiking boots are recommended
  
  

TOUR SNAPSHOT

AVAILABILITYSEPT - APRIL
DURATION8 DAYS
DEPARTS FROMREYKJAVIK
LEVELEASY
MINIMUM AGE8 YEARS
RATIO1:18
ACCOMMODATIONINCLUDED
PICK UPYES
MEET ON LOCATIONNO

EXCLUSIONS

• Breakfast on arrival day

• International airfare

• Baggage porterage at airport/hotel

• Personal travel insurance (highly recommended)

• Swimsuit at the Blue Lagoon (rentals available)

• Round-trip transfers between airports and hotels

• Beverages, snacks, lunches, dinners unless otherwise noted in the itinerary

• Guaranteed early check-in (check-in time for most hotels in Iceland starts between 14:00 and 16:00 (2:00pm and 4:00pm)

• Guaranteed late check-out

• Any service not specifically listed under "Included