Iceland stands out among the world’s top adventure destinations for its dramatic landscapes, active volcanoes, vast glaciers, and abundant wildlife. What makes Iceland truly special for tours is how accessible these wild wonders are—whether it’s walking across volcanic lava fields, riding a quad bike in the wilderness, or spotting whales in fjords. Among the tours we love, the Fagradalsfjall Volcano Hike offers a rare chance to walk on recent lava flows with an expert local guide, providing an authentic and immersive experience. For a more adrenaline-fueled adventure, the Reykjavik Quad Bike Twin Peaks Tour lets you explore challenging terrains with breathtaking city views, showcasing Iceland’s rugged beauty firsthand. And for those interested in glaciers, the Ice Cave and Glacier Exploration Tour from Jökulsárlón combines riding a super-jeep with exploring incredible ice formations. Check out our full list below for a range of unforgettable experiences.
In this guide, we’ve compiled the best tours in Iceland across different interests and activity levels. From hiking volcanoes and glaciers to whale watching and paragliding, each offers something unique. Whether you’re after a full-day adventure, a shorter thrill, or a relaxing spa visit, you’ll find options that suit your style and schedule. To help you decide, we’ve included practical details, honest reviews, and what makes each tour stand out. Ready to explore? Let’s dive into the top Iceland experiences.
1. Fagradalsfjall Volcano Hike – Small Group with Local Guide
At number 1, the Fagradalsfjall Volcano Hike is an exceptional choice for those who want to get close to recent volcanic activity. This isn’t a bus tour; it’s a real hike across fresh lava fields led by a certified local guide who has been here since the 2021 eruption. You’ll walk on the actual volcanic terrain, learn about geology and eruptions from someone who knows the area intimately. The small-group size means more personal attention and better opportunities to ask questions. The tour includes optional hotel pickup or a meeting point at the volcano, plus visits to nearby sites like Seltún, Kleifarvatn, and Grindavík. The full-day tour generally lasts around 4 to 6 hours and is perfect for adventurous travelers who want an immersive, educational experience.
Guests praise this tour for its authenticity, with a 5/5 rating from 136 reviews, and rave about the chance to stand on lava as it cools. The combination of scenic drives, geological insights, and the walking experience makes it a top pick for active explorers.
Bottom line: If you’re eager to walk on recent lava and learn about Iceland’s volcanic forces from a local expert, this tour offers unbeatable value and a one-of-a-kind adventure.
2. Reykjavik Quad Bike Twin Peaks Tour
For around $197, the Reykjavik Quad Bike Twin Peaks Tour offers a thrilling ride through Iceland’s wild outback. This tour combines challenging dirt trails with spectacular views from Reykjavík Peak and Lava Field Peak. It’s a chance to experience Iceland’s rugged terrain on a powerful quad bike, riding alongside lakes like Hafravatn and overlooking the Hengill geothermal mountain area. The tour includes a safety briefing and guided off-road riding through diverse landscapes.
Guests consistently rate it highly with a 4.8/5 from 156 reviews, praising the friendly guides, stunning scenery, and adrenaline rush. It’s suitable for most fitness levels, with a focus on fun and safety. The tour starts from multiple pickup points in Reykjavik, making it easy to fit into your day. Many visitors note that the views from the peaks provide a memorable panorama of Iceland’s natural beauty, especially at sunset.
Bottom line: If you’re after a combination of adventure, scenic vistas, and off-road fun, this quad bike tour is worth every penny, especially for those craving a high-energy experience.
3. From Jökulsárlón: Ice Cave and Glacier Exploration Tour
This tour from Jökulsárlón, rated 4.8/5 by 155 reviewers and costing $239, combines riding a super-jeep with exploring a spectacular ice cave. The 5.5-hour adventure takes you across Vatnajökull, Europe’s largest glacier, to stunning blue canyons and natural ice formations. Guides are well-trained and provide helmets, harnesses, and crampons for a safe hike into the season’s biggest ice cave, a surreal world of shimmering blue ice.
Guests rave about the guide Javier, who is both helpful and humorous, and describe the experience as “spectacular.” The tour is perfect for travelers seeking a blend of adventure and awe-inspiring scenery. The small group size ensures intimate exploration and personalized attention. During the hike, you’ll learn about glaciers and how they shape Iceland’s landscape.
Bottom line: For an unforgettable mix of glacier hiking and ice cave exploration, this tour offers excellent value and extraordinary sights that are hard to find elsewhere.
4. The Wool Monster Workshop – make your own souvenir!
Rated 5/5 by 28 reviews and costing about $90, the Wool Monster Workshop is a perfect choice for families or anyone wanting a creative break. Using local Icelandic wool and upcycled materials, you craft your own plush monster in a private, intimate setting. The workshop lasts about an hour and includes a walk along a nearby beach or a visit to the historic presidential residence, Bessastaðir.
Many reviewers appreciate the eco-friendly approach and the personal touch. This is less about scenery and more about hands-on creativity, making it ideal for those looking for a relaxed, artistic experience. The workshop is also a great souvenir opportunity—you leave with a one-of-a-kind wool monster you made yourself.
Bottom line: If you want a meaningful, eco-conscious souvenir and a chance to relax and get creative, this workshop ranks high for its personal touch and sustainability.
5. North Iceland: Horseback Riding Tour
Rated 4.8/5 from 22 reviews and priced at $136, this Horseback Riding Tour showcases Icelandic horses in their natural habitat. Ride through birch forests, black sand plains, and volcanic rocks, with opportunities to see cows in summer and sheep in autumn. The tour includes “tölt,” a smooth gait unique to Icelandic horses, for both beginners and experienced riders.
Guests love the tour’s diverse landscapes and the friendly guides. One reviewer calls it “a fantastic trail,” praising the scenery and the opportunity to ride the iconic Icelandic horse. The experience is perfect for those who want to connect with Iceland’s rural life, with enough challenge for seasoned riders but accessible for newcomers.
Bottom line: For a scenic, cultural ride with a chance to experience Iceland in a traditional way, this horseback tour offers an authentic and enjoyable experience.
6. Iceberg Boat Tour, Glacier Hike Adventure and 4X4 transfer
At number 6, this Iceberg Boat & Glacier Hike combines a zodiac boat cruise on Fjallsárlón lagoon with exploring Fjallsjökull glacier. It’s a 5.5-hour excursion rated 4.8/5 by 21 reviews, designed for those craving a personalized experience. The boat trip is about 45 minutes, followed by a guided glacier hike into pristine ice formations.
Participants praise the well-organized logistics, the experienced guides, and the crowd-free environment. This tour is suitable for active travelers who enjoy both boat rides and walking among glaciers, with stunning scenery in a small group setting. The location offers amenities like restrooms and a restaurant, making it comfortable as well as adventurous.
Bottom line: For a varied, engaging day combining water and ice, this tour delivers a rich experience in a less crowded setting.
7. Hauganes: Whale Watching North Iceland
Rated 4.6/5 from 13 reviews, the whale-watching tour from Hauganes costs $77 and lasts 2.5 hours. It’s run by Iceland’s oldest whale-watching company, with a high success rate of whale sightings. Expect to see humpbacks, with some lucky groups spotting others like minke whales or dolphins. During the trip, warm up with homemade cinnamon buns and hot chocolate.
The tour is praised for its comfortable boats, knowledgeable crew, and the chance to observe whales close to the fjord. It’s a great option for families or anyone wanting a relaxed but rewarding wildlife experience. The small size of the boat and the experienced crew ensure you spend more time watching whales and less sailing around.
Bottom line: If marine life interests you and you want a reliable, comfortable whale-watching tour, this option is hard to beat for its reputation and scenery.
8. ATV guided trip close to Dettifoss Iceland
With a 5/5 rating from just 3 reviews and costing $177, this ATV adventure takes you near Dettifoss, Europe’s most powerful waterfall. The one-hour tour includes gear and expert guidance, with riders exploring the rugged northeastern landscape. It’s a great way to see Iceland’s wildlife, with the possibility of spotting seals and birds along the glacier river Jökulsá.
Guests describe the scenery as “absolutely gorgeous” and praise the professional staff. The tour is suitable for those comfortable on an ATV and looking for a quick, action-packed outing with wild surroundings.
Bottom line: For a short, exciting ride through Iceland’s wild northeastern terrain, this ATV tour offers a memorable and active experience.
9. Tandem Paragliding over the Rugged Lava Fields at Blue Mountains
Rated 4.5/5 and priced at $247.56, this paragliding adventure gives you a bird’s-eye view of the Blue Mountains and surrounding landscapes. Flying tandem with an instructor, you soar over snow-capped mountains, active geothermal areas, and volcanic lava fields. No experience is necessary, and options for transportation from Reykjavik are available.
Reviewers call it “an unbelievable fun experience” with “great views” and praise the professionalism of the guides. The GoPro video option makes it easy to relive the flight, which lasts about an hour. The ride is smooth and suitable for those willing to try something truly different.
Bottom line: If you’re after an exhilarating aerial perspective on Iceland’s volcanic landscape, this paragliding trip is a high-flying way to see it all.
10. Skaftafell: Hvannadalshnjákur Glacier Guided Hike
Rated 5/5 from 2 reviews and priced at $575, this longer guided hike takes you to the highest summit in Iceland. Traveling through Skaftafell National Park, you’ll ascend Hvannadalshnjákur with a private local guide, enjoying breathtaking views of nearby glaciers and peaks.
The 13.5-hour expedition is suited for experienced hikers and offers a chance to explore Iceland’s tallest mountain. Reviewers mention the professional guides and the spectacular scenery as highlights. Be prepared for a full day, but the sense of achievement and the vistas make it worthwhile.
Bottom line: For serious hikers seeking to reach Iceland’s highest point, this private guided climb offers unmatched scenery and a rewarding challenge.
11. From Husafell: Langjokull Glacier Snowmobile Tour
Rated 4.5/5 from 8 reviews, the snowmobile tour in Langjokull is a high-energy experience costing $265 for 2 hours. Starting from Husafell, you’ll gear up with warm clothing and ride across the glacier’s snowy expanse, learning about the ice sheet from knowledgeable guides. A scenic bus transfer takes you to the glacier’s edge, where the adventure begins.
Guests describe it as “so much fun” and praise the professional gear and scenic views. It’s perfect for those looking for a quick, exhilarating adventure in the snow. The tour includes safety equipment and offers fantastic photo opportunities against the snowy backdrop.
Bottom line: If snowmobiling on an Icelandic glacier appeals to you, this tour provides a quick but memorable thrill with stunning scenery.
12. From Reykjavik: Private Blue Lagoon 2-Hour Spa Experience
Rated 5/5 and lasting four hours, the Blue Lagoon private spa offers a luxurious way to relax. It includes private transport, ensuring privacy and comfort, with two hours of soaking in the famous silica-rich waters. The lagoon’s surroundings of lava fields create a stunning backdrop for unwinding.
Reviewers appreciate the private setting and the ease of transport, making it more exclusive than public options. It’s ideal for travelers wanting a peaceful retreat after days of adventure. The experience is simple but rejuvenating, with optional treatments available.
Bottom line: For a soothing finish to your trip, this private Blue Lagoon experience delivers comfort, privacy, and Iceland’s iconic geothermal waters.
13. Northern Lights Tour From Reykjavik with Photos & Hot Choc
Rated 5/5 by 1 reviewer, this Northern Lights tour for $162 offers a 4-hour chase with a high success rate of 98%. Led by experienced photographers, you’ll visit the Aurora Museum, learn about the science, and capture photos of the aurora in a small group. Hot chocolate and Icelandic pastries keep you cozy as you wait for the lights.
Guests praise the professionalism and the chance to see the aurora in a relaxed setting. The small-group format and unlimited driving make it flexible, increasing the likelihood of a sighting. This tour is perfect for those who want to combine learning, photography, and a magical night sky.
Bottom line: If chasing the Northern Lights with expert help and capturing photos matters most, this tour is an excellent choice.
14. Iceland: Audioguide, Interactive map 200 spots ++
For just $17, this audio guide and interactive map offers an affordable way to explore Iceland independently. Covering over 200 spots, it provides engaging stories, legends, and geological insights designed to enhance your self-paced journey. It’s accessible for a full year after purchase, perfect for a flexible itinerary.
Reviewers mention the immersive storytelling and how it adds depth to visits beyond typical tourist attractions. It’s an economical choice for curious travelers who enjoy exploring at their own pace without a guide.
Bottom line: For an enriching, cost-effective way to discover Iceland’s secrets, this app is ideal, especially if you prefer self-guided adventures.
15. Vatnajokull: Skaftafell Glacier Hike
Rated 4.3/5 by 7 reviews, this 3-hour glacier hike in Vatnajökull offers an immersive experience among ice formations and crevasses. Starting from Fosshotel Glacier Lagoon, you’ll explore stunning ice landscapes with a certified guide, learning about glacier formation and climate change along the way.
Guests highlight the gorgeous scenery and professional guides. It’s a shorter option compared to the Hvannadalshnjúkur climb but still provides a memorable adventure in Iceland’s vast ice realm.
Bottom line: For a shorter, scenic glacier walk with expert guidance, this tour offers a safe and captivating introduction to Iceland’s icy environment.
How to Choose Your Perfect Iceland Tour
Choosing the right tour depends on your interests, fitness level, and how much time you want to dedicate. If you’re after a wild volcanic experience, the Fagradalsfjall Volcano Hike is unbeatable. For adrenaline seekers, the Reykjavik Quad Bike Tour and snowmobiling on Langjokull are top choices.
Interested in glaciers? Either explore the ice caves with the Ice Cave Tour or go for a glacier hike in Skaftafell. Wildlife lovers should not miss the Whale Watching excursion, while those seeking relaxation might opt for the Blue Lagoon Spa.
Timing also matters—summertime offers more wildlife and hiking options, while winter is perfect for chasing the Northern Lights or enjoying hot springs. Book early, especially for popular tours like the glacier hikes or the Northern Lights trips, to secure your spot.
Final Thoughts
Iceland offers a wide array of tours, matching every interest and activity level. For a truly adventurous day, the Fagradalsfjall Volcano Hike or the Ice Cave Tour will leave you with stories to tell. If you prefer relaxing luxury, the Blue Lagoon Spa promises a peaceful retreat. And for wildlife lovers, the whale-watching tour from Hauganes combines comfort and a high success rate.
No matter your choice, early booking is advisable—many tours fill quickly, especially in peak seasons. These experiences aren’t just sightseeing; they’re core parts of your Iceland story, filled with authentic moments and stunning scenery. Pick the tour that excites you most, and get ready for an Icelandic adventure you’ll never forget.
