8-Day Small Group Journey Around Iceland

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Day 1: Arrival in Iceland – Welcome to Reykjavík

After landing at Keflavík International Airport, make your way to your accommodation in Reykjavík, Iceland’s vibrant capital city. For added convenience, we can assist with booking a Flybus airport transfer or a private door-to-door arrival transfer for a reasonable fee.

Once checked in, take some time to relax after your flight and begin soaking in the unique atmosphere of Iceland. This is your first taste of the country before beginning your unforgettable 8-day Ring Road adventure around the island.

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Day 2: Snæfellsnes Peninsula Day Tour

Early pickup from your hotel between 07:30–08:00. Journey through the stunning Snæfellsnes Peninsula, often called "Iceland in Miniature", before returning to your Reykjavík hotel for the night.

Drive from Reykjavík to Borgarnes village, then visit Ytri Tunga Beach, a rare golden sand beach in Iceland known for its playful seal colony. Continue to Arnarstapi, where dramatic sea cliffs, rock arches, and nesting seabirds create one of the country’s most picturesque coastal landscapes. Discover Djúpalónssandur black beach and the Hólahólar volcanic craters, a true hidden gem off the beaten path.

End the day in Ólafsvík fishing village before visiting the iconic Kirkjufell Mountain and nearby Kirkjufellsfoss Waterfall, one of Iceland’s most photographed landmarks.

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Day 3: Journey to Akureyri – Discovering North Iceland’s Charm

After breakfast, we begin a scenic journey north through the Hvalfjörður Tunnel to the charming village of Borgarnes, before heading onward to Skagafjörður Fjord, widely known as the heartland of the Icelandic horse – the only region in the country where horses outnumber people.

We’ll stop at the Glaumbær Museum, a well-preserved traditional turf farmhouse offering a window into Iceland’s rural heritage. From there, the road takes us across the highland plateau of Öxnadalsheiði, where you’ll enjoy breathtaking mountain views, en route to Akureyri, often called the capital of North Iceland.

In the evening, you have the option to unwind at the Forest Lagoon, a peaceful geothermal spa in a forest setting (available at an additional cost).

Overnight stay in Akureyri.

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Day 4: Lake Mývatn – Volcanic Landscapes and Majestic Waterfalls

Today is dedicated to exploring the volcanic wonders of Lake Mývatn, a shallow lake renowned for its abundant birdlife and geothermal activity. Our first stop is the legendary Goðafoss Waterfall, also known as the Waterfall of the Gods, celebrated for its beauty and historical significance.

We then continue to the Dimmuborgir lava fields, known as the Dark Castles, followed by a walk among the pseudocraters of Skútustaðagígar, fascinating relics of past eruptions. Next is Grjótagjá lava cave, featuring a naturally heated thermal spring, and then the steaming geothermal area of Námaskarð, home to bubbling mud pools and fumaroles in an almost lunar landscape.

On our way to East Iceland, we stop at the awe-inspiring Dettifoss Waterfall, one of Europe’s most powerful waterfalls, then drive across the Möðrudalsöræfi highland desert and through the Jökuldalur Valley to Egilsstaðir.

Overnight stay in Egilsstaðir.

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Day 5: The East Fjords – Remote Beauty and Wild Reindeer

Departing Egilsstaðir, we follow the dramatic coastline of the East Fjords, a region defined by narrow fjords, steep mountains, and charming fishing villages untouched by mass tourism. This part of Iceland is famous for its clear lakes, historic farms, and is the only area where wild reindeer roam freely.

During summer, this region often enjoys the best weather in Iceland, while in winter it’s covered in atmospheric fog, enhancing its mysterious beauty.

In the afternoon, take part in an optional Glacier Jeep Adventure on Vatnajökull, Europe’s largest glacier (additional cost). A 3–4 hour excursion in a modified super jeep lets you walk on snow, admire panoramic glacier views, and experience the thrill of Iceland’s icy wilderness. (Minimum 4 participants required.)

Overnight stay in Höfn, a harbour town famed for lobster and scenic views.

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Day 6: Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon, Diamond Beach & South Coast Highlights

Today we travel along Iceland’s spectacular southeast coast, starting at the Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon, where we take an amphibian boat tour among drifting icebergs calving from Breiðamerkurjökull Glacier. Close by is the shimmering Diamond Beach, where icebergs rest on black volcanic sand, offering incredible photo ops.

Our journey continues through Vatnajökull National Park, passing Hvannadalshnúkur, Iceland’s highest peak (2,119m), then over the expansive Eldhraun lava fields and Mýrdalssandur black glacial plains.

In Vík, we explore Reynisfjara black sand beach, famed for its basalt columns, summer puffin colonies, and dramatic waves from the Atlantic Ocean. Just nearby is the Dyrhólaey sea arch, carved naturally by the sea.

The day ends with visits to two of Iceland’s most iconic waterfalls: Skógafoss, a towering 60-metre cascade, and Seljalandsfoss, where you can walk behind the water for a unique view (waterproofs recommended).

Overnight stay in the Selfoss area.

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Day 7: The Golden Circle & Optional Blue Lagoon Visit

We dedicate the day to the Golden Circle, Iceland’s most popular sightseeing route. Begin at Gullfoss Waterfall, a powerful two-tiered cascade plunging into a rugged canyon, followed by the Geysir Geothermal Area, where the Strokkur geyser erupts every few minutes.

Next, we arrive at Þingvellir National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site where the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates drift apart, forming a striking rift valley. This is also home to the historic Alþingi Parliament, one of the world’s oldest legislative assemblies, founded in 930 AD.

We then return to Reykjavík for our final night. In the afternoon, guests may join an optional excursion to the Blue Lagoon (extra cost), which includes return transfer, entrance, Silica Mud Mask, towel, and a drink – a perfect way to relax after an unforgettable tour around Iceland.

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Day 8: Departure Day – Farewell Iceland

Enjoy a relaxed morning before your transfer from Reykjavík to Keflavík International Airport, depending on your flight time. We can help you book a Flybus shuttle or private airport transfer for convenience.

As your 8-day Iceland Ring Road adventure comes to a close, you leave with unforgettable memories of the island’s most spectacular natural and cultural wonders.

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