5-Day Tour Highlights of Iceland with Accommodation | Start from Keflavik

Introduction

If you’re dreaming of Iceland’s dramatic landscapes but want a hassle-free way to see the best sights, this 5-Day Tour Highlights of Iceland might just be worth considering. We haven’t personally taken it, but based on detailed descriptions and reviews, it’s designed to offer a well-rounded experience without the stress of planning every detail yourself. It’s perfect for travelers who want a mix of adventure, comfort, and convenience.

What we really like about this tour is how it combines iconic sites—like waterfalls, glaciers, and geothermal baths—into a manageable itinerary. Plus, all accommodations and entrance fees are taken care of, so you can focus on enjoying the scenery rather than worrying about logistics. On the flip side, one thing to keep in mind is that the group size is limited to 19, which is great for intimacy but means you’ll want to book well in advance.

If you’re the type of traveler who appreciates guided adventures and doesn’t mind a busy schedule, this tour could be a great fit. It’s especially suited for those who love natural beauty and want a comfortable, organized way to experience Iceland’s highlights.

Key Points

• All-inclusive experience: Accommodation, entrance fees, and transportation are covered, making it easier to budget.
• Small group size: Max 19 travelers, which tends to create a more personal experience.
• Diverse scenery: From waterfalls and glaciers to black sand beaches and geothermal spas, there’s a lot packed into five days.
• Comfortable stay: Four-star hotels and a countryside hotel ensure decent comfort after long days of sightseeing.
• Expert guide: The tour logistics are managed professionally, freeing you from planning and ensuring smooth transitions.
• Value for money: Considering the inclusions, the price reflects a well-priced way to see Iceland’s major sights.

The Itinerary: What to Expect Each Day

Day 1: Arrival and Blue Lagoon
Your adventure kicks off right at Keflavik Airport. Once you land, you’ll be whisked away to the Blue Lagoon, where you’ll enjoy a premium package — think silica mud masks and a drink in hand. It’s a fantastic way to unwind after your flight and get a first taste of Iceland’s geothermal magic. The Blue Lagoon experience is often highlighted as a major highlight, with one reviewer noting how well-organized it was, with “all we had to do was show up.”

The two-hour soak includes robes, towels, masks, and a drink, so you can relax without any fuss. Afterward, you’ll be transported to your hotel, where you’ll have the evening free to settle in or explore a bit locally.

Day 2: Waterfalls, Glacier Hike, and Black Sand Beach
Day 2 is a full immersion into Iceland’s wild south. First up is Seljalandsfoss, a waterfall famous for the walk-behind view. Nearby, there’s the hidden cave waterfall at Gljufrabui, often missed but included on this tour. Expect to get a bit wet and marvel at the power of Icelandic nature.

Next, Skogafoss offers another iconic waterfall—this one more accessible for climbing stairs to get a panoramic view from above. Many travelers, including a reviewer who called it “the most recognizable waterfall,” appreciate how photogenic it is, especially with the rainbows that appear in sunny weather.

Then, things get more adventurous with a guided walk on Solheimajokull Glacier. With crampons and safety gear provided, you’ll get up close to crevasses, ice tunnels, and the beautiful blue ice of the glacier. It’s an experience that leaves many travelers feeling like they’ve truly stepped into a frozen wonderland.

In the afternoon, you’ll visit Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach. It’s one of the most striking beaches in the world—black volcanic sands, towering sea stacks, and hexagonal basalt columns. Just a heads-up: the waves here are powerful, and you’re advised to keep a safe distance. One reviewer raved about the “supernatural” photo opportunities, emphasizing how photogenic the scene is.

Day 3: Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon & Diamond Beach
This day takes you further east, to the iconic Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon and Diamond Beach. The icebergs here are mesmerizing, floating in the glacier lake, and the scattered fragments on the black sand make for incredible photos. One visitor mentioned the glacial ice “getting sculpted into fantastic shapes,” capturing how surreal it feels.

A highlight is the amphibious boat tour through the lagoon, giving you a close-up view of large icebergs and maybe even a seal or two. The tour’s reviews praise the chance to see these massive ice formations so intimately.

Nearby, Diamond Beach dazzles with ice chunks that shimmer like diamonds on the dark sand—truly one of Iceland’s most visual spectacles. The entire area feels like stepping into a postcard, with endless opportunities for photos.

The day ends with a visit to Hofskirkja Turf Church, a rare, beautifully preserved turf church, and the Fjadrargljufur Canyon, a winding, moss-covered river gorge made famous by a Justin Bieber music video. Here, you can walk along the canyon’s edge, enjoying views that look like they belong on a movie set.

Finally, you’ll visit Vik, a tiny seaside village with panoramic views of the Reynisdrangar sea stacks. This spot offers a peaceful ending to a busy day, with chances to spot seabirds and take in stunning coastal vistas.

Day 4: The Golden Circle & Sky Lagoon
This day is dedicated to classic Icelandic sights. First, Thingvellir National Park—where the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates are slowly drifting apart. The landscape here is dramatic, and the historical significance as the site of the world’s oldest parliament adds a layer of cultural depth.

Next, you’ll stop at Geysir, the famous hot spring area. Strokkur reliably erupts every few minutes, sending boiling water high into the air. It’s a mesmerizing display of geothermal power, and one reviewer appreciated the chance to get close without feeling rushed.

The Gullfoss Waterfall is next—a double-tiered cascade that thunders into a deep canyon. Whether it’s rainbows in the spray or icy formations in winter, Gullfoss is always a sight to behold.

The final Golden Circle stop is Kerid Crater, a colorful volcanic caldera filled with water and vivid mosses. It’s a quick but striking stop that offers great photo opportunities.

To cap off the day, you’ll visit Sky Lagoon, a brand-new geothermal spa outside Reykjavik. With an infinity pool overlooking the ocean, a swim-up bar, and relaxing surroundings, it’s praised as the perfect way to unwind after a packed day.

Day 5: Departure
On your final morning, a transfer picks you up from your hotel to Keflavik Airport, bringing this Icelandic adventure to a close. The transfer includes WiFi on board, making it easy to share your memories or plan your next stop.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

This tour’s biggest advantage is its comprehensive itinerary packed into just five days. You’ll visit many of the country’s most iconic sights—glaciers, waterfalls, black sand beaches, geothermal pools—and do so with all logistics handled. This means you don’t need to worry about booking hotels or buying entry tickets; everything is sorted in advance.

The small group size (up to 19 travelers) helps foster a more relaxed atmosphere, and many reviewers have pointed out how knowledgeable and friendly the guides are. One reviewer specifically mentioned how well-planned the tour was, with “all we had to do was show up,” which is a huge plus for travelers who want a smooth experience. The inclusion of four-star hotels and a countryside hotel also means you’re not sacrificing comfort after days of exploring.

The value for money is notable considering all the inclusions—hotel stays, transportation, site entrance fees, and guided experiences. While $2,150 per person might seem steep at first glance, it’s quite competitive for a guided, all-inclusive tour covering so much ground.

Considerations Before Booking

While this tour offers a lot, it’s important to note that it’s quite active. You’ll spend long days on the move, walking and sometimes hiking on glaciers or uneven terrain. For travelers who prefer a more relaxed pace or have mobility concerns, this might be a bit demanding.

Also, the tour is mostly weather-dependent—bad weather can sometimes alter plans or cause cancellations. However, the policy states that if an activity is canceled due to weather, you’ll be offered a different date or full refund.

Since the tour is booked far in advance—typically 40 days ahead—it’s best to plan and confirm your spot early. The group size limitation makes last-minute bookings tricky, especially during peak seasons.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This adventure suits travelers who want to see Iceland’s most famous sights without the hassle of planning each detail. If you enjoy guided tours with a small group, value comfort, and are okay with a busy schedule, it’s a good match. It’s also ideal for those who want a balanced mix of natural wonders, cultural sites, and relaxing geothermal experiences.

It’s probably not ideal for travelers who prefer a very slow pace, are traveling with small children, or have specific mobility needs. However, for most active, adventure-minded travelers eager to make the most of their time, this tour strikes a solid balance of value, comfort, and unforgettable scenery.

FAQ

How many days does the tour last?
The tour spans five days, starting from Keflavik and ending with a transfer back to Reykjavik.

Are accommodation arrangements included?
Yes, you stay in four-star hotel accommodations in Reykjavik and one countryside hotel, with breakfast included each morning.

Are entrance fees covered?
Absolutely. All site entrance fees, including Blue Lagoon, glacier hikes, and Sky Lagoon, are included in the price.

What’s the group size?
The maximum group size is 19 travelers, which tends to make for a more intimate experience.

Is transportation provided from the airport?
Yes, round-trip transport from Keflavik Airport is included, making airport arrivals and departures straightforward.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours before the tour for a full refund, making it flexible for unforeseen changes.

Would this tour suit families?
While it’s not specifically marketed as a family tour, the activities are generally suitable for most able-bodied adults. However, the busy schedule and some physical activity may not be ideal for very young children.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a well-organized, memorable way to experience Iceland’s highlights in a relatively short time, this 5-day tour offers a balanced mix of adventure, comfort, and stunning scenery. You’ll appreciate the included logistics—hotels, entrance fees, and transport—allowing you to focus on the awe-inspiring landscapes. Guides seem knowledgeable and friendly, adding value to each stop.

This tour is best suited for travelers who enjoy a bit of activity, don’t mind busy days, and want a comprehensive introduction to Iceland’s natural beauty. While it’s not the cheapest option out there, the all-inclusive nature makes it a convenient, hassle-free choice for experiencing some of Iceland’s most photogenic sites.

Whether it’s your first visit or a quick-return trip, this tour packs a lot into five days, making it a practical and inspiring way to explore one of the world’s most stunning destinations.