With its landscapes of volcanoes, geysers, glaciers, hot springs and lava fields, Iceland is a captivating country to explore either independently or, as many chose, part of an organised group.
(Photo: GAdventures.com)
The Nordic island nation is notoriously expensive – but that doesn’t deter the large numbers of visitors who come here every year to see its unique natural features for themselves. One of the most popular ways to travel in Iceland is as part of an organised tour group, which has the benefit of your itinerary, transportation and accommodation all arranged for you. If you like the idea of coming to Iceland with a small group of like-minded travellers, here are 5 great tours to pick from.
Reykjavik & Snæfellsnes Peninsula (3 days)
If you’re short on time or budget, this 3-day tour may well fit the bill. As part of a group of around 14 fellow travellers, you’ll meet your group and guide in the capital of Reykjavik where you’ll spend the full day getting to know the city. There’ll be time to visit the beautiful Sky Lagoon and enjoy a warm soak before retiring for the night. The following day, you’ll travel by car to the Snaefellsnes Peninsula, taking in the area’s many unique landscapes and stopping in several small fishing towns. On day three, you’ll return to Reykjavik where you’ll be free to depart at any time. The tour is available for ages 12 and above. From $942.
Northern Lights & Golden Circle (5 days)
(Photo: GAdventures.com)
Witness the majestic Northern Lights on this immersive 5-day tour. Starting in Reykjavik, there will be several opportunities to see the lights at various stop-offs, which will also include enchanting attractions such as a lava cave in the Bláfjöll Mountains, a Geysir Hot Spring, Gullfoss waterfall, and Thingvellir National Park to see the tectonic faults created by North American and Eurasian tectonic plates shifting apart. There’ll be optional activities along the way too, including the chance to embrace your inner chef and prepare dinner at a guesthouse, take in some culture at a museum, and embark on breathtaking hikes. Tour groups are limited to a maximum of 16 people. From $1,631.
Best of South & West Iceland (7 days)
This week-long tour takes in some of the best sights, landmarks and places of interest that the south and west of Iceland have to offer. In a group of up to 10 guests, you’ll be led by an expert guide who will transport you around awe-inspiring spots, including black sand beaches, thundering waterfalls and ancient glaciers. The tour also includes time exploring the capital of Reykjavik, a visit to the famous Blue Lagoon and a chance to spot the glimmering northern lights. The tour starts in Reykjavik and ends at the Blue Lagoon. From $5,893.
The Snaefellsnes Peninsula, Volcanoes & Hiking Húsafell (10 days)
This 10-day tour features plenty of action-packed adventure that takes you deep into the heart of Iceland’s stunning natural landscapes. Starting and ending in Reykjavik, you’ll hike across lava fields, venture into ice tunnels within a glacier, journey behind waterfalls, witness the spectacular scenery of the Snafellsnes Peninsula, and watch water shoot high into the sky from a Geysir along the Golden Circle route – just some of the enthralling activities you’ll embark on in the company of up to 16 fellow tour guests. This tour is adults only. From $5,995.
Under the Spell of the Elemental Forces (15 days)
(Photo: Tourradar.com)
This epic 15-day tour may well appeal to those with plenty of time on their hands and a budget to match, giving you the chance to explore vast swaths of the country over more than a fortnight. In total, you and your group of up to 7 guests will visit 12 distinct destinations across Iceland in the company of an experienced guide. Highlights include stop-offs in Reykjavik, Dettifoss waterfall, the large fjords in the north and east, the Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon, the Svartifoss waterfall, Skaftafell National Park, the volcanically active landscape of Landmannalaugar, and the historical highlights of Þingvellir. From $4,949.