5-Day Small Group Journey Around Iceland

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Day 1: Journey to Akureyri – Discovering North Iceland’s Charm

Pickup from your hotel or nearby bus stop between 08:30–09:00.

We begin our scenic drive through North Iceland, passing the Hvalfjörður Tunnel on the way to the charming village of Borgarnes, before continuing to Skagafjörður Fjord, an area celebrated as the heartland of the Icelandic horse, the only region in Iceland where horses outnumber people.

En route, we visit the Glaumbær Museum, a traditional turf farmhouse offering a fascinating insight into Iceland’s rural history and cultural heritage. Our journey then takes us across the dramatic Öxnadalsheiði plateau, surrounded by towering mountains, before arriving in Akureyri, often called the capital of North Iceland.

In the evening, you may choose to relax with an optional visit to the Forest Lagoon, a geothermal spa nestled in a peaceful forest setting (available at an additional cost).

Overnight stay in Akureyri.

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Day 2: Lake Mývatn – Volcanic Wonders and Spectacular Waterfalls

Today, we explore the stunning volcanic landscapes around Lake Mývatn, a shallow lake famous for its rich birdlife and geothermal activity. Departing Akureyri, our first stop is Goðafoss Waterfall, also known as the Waterfall of the Gods, admired for both its beauty and historical significance.

We continue to the Dimmuborgir lava formations, nicknamed the Dark Castles, followed by a walk among the pseudocraters of Skútustaðagígar, unique remnants of ancient volcanic eruptions. We visit Grjótagjá lava cave, home to a naturally heated thermal spring, before heading to the steaming geothermal fields of Námaskarð, where bubbling mud pools and fumaroles create a dramatic, otherworldly setting.

On our way to East Iceland, we stop at the mighty Dettifoss Waterfall, one of Europe’s most powerful waterfalls, before crossing the remote Möðrudalsöræfi highlands and continuing to Egilsstaðir, where we spend the night.

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Day 3: The East Fjords – Scenic Villages and Wild Reindeer

Leaving Egilsstaðir, we drive through the breathtaking East Fjords, a region of narrow fjords, steep mountainsides, and picturesque fishing villages untouched by mass tourism. This area is renowned for its sparkling lakes, traditional Icelandic farms, and is the only place in Iceland where wild reindeer roam freely.

In summer, the East Fjords are often blessed with sunny weather, while winter cloaks the region in mystical fog, adding to its charm.

In the afternoon, an optional Glacier Jeep Adventure is available at additional cost on Vatnajökull, Europe’s largest glacier. This 3–4 hour excursion takes you up the glacier in a super jeep, where you can walk on the snow, enjoy sweeping mountain views, and experience the raw beauty of Iceland’s icy wilderness (minimum four participants required).

Overnight stay in Höfn, a small fishing town famous for its lobster cuisine and scenic harbour.

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Day 4: Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon, Diamond Beach & Iceland’s South Coast

Today’s journey takes us along Iceland’s breathtaking southeast coast. We begin with a visit to the stunning Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon, where we join an amphibian boat tour among floating icebergs calving from the Breiðamerkurjökull Glacier. Nearby, the Diamond Beach glistens with washed-up icebergs scattered across the black volcanic sand, creating a truly unforgettable photo opportunity.

We continue through Vatnajökull National Park, passing Hvannadalshnúkur, Iceland’s highest peak (2,119m), before travelling across the vast lava fields of Eldhraun and the black glacial plains of Mýrdalssandur.

In Vík, a charming coastal village, we visit the famous black sand beach of Reynisfjara, renowned for its basalt columns, puffin colonies (summer months), and powerful Atlantic waves. From here, admire the sea arch of Dyrhólaey, where the ocean has carved a dramatic hole through the rock.

Our final stops of the day include two of Iceland’s most iconic waterfalls: Skógafoss, a 60-metre high waterfall, and Seljalandsfoss, where you can walk behind the cascading water for a unique perspective (waterproof clothing recommended).

Overnight stay in the Selfoss area.

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Day 5: The Golden Circle & Optional Blue Lagoon Experience

We dedicate the final day to exploring Iceland’s world-famous Golden Circle sightseeing route. First, we visit Gullfoss Waterfall, a majestic two-tiered cascade plunging into a rugged canyon. Next is the Geysir Geothermal Area, home to bubbling hot springs and Strokkur geyser, which erupts every few minutes.

Our last major stop is Þingvellir National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, where the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates drift apart, creating a dramatic rift valley. This is also the site of the historic Alþingi Parliament, established in 930 AD, one of the world’s oldest legislative assemblies.

From Þingvellir, we return to Reykjavík. In the afternoon, guests can choose an optional visit at extra cost to the Blue Lagoon, which includes return transfer, entrance ticket, a rejuvenating Silica Mud Mask, towel use, and one complimentary drink, offering the perfect way to relax after five unforgettable days exploring Iceland’s natural wonders.

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