From Reykjavík: 6-Day Around Iceland Ring Road Tour

Planning a trip around Iceland can feel overwhelming — so many natural wonders, so little time. This 6-day Ring Road tour from Reykjavík promises to cover the highlights, giving you a taste of everything from waterfalls to glaciers. We’ve looked into what this trip offers and want to share an honest, practical overview to help you decide if it’s the right fit.

One thing we really appreciate about this tour is how it balances iconic sights with unique experiences like ice caving and geothermal baths. You’ll stay in comfortable hotels along the way, which makes long days of sightseeing more manageable. On the flip side, the schedule is packed, and some might find the constant movement a bit tiring — it’s definitely a whirlwind, not a slow-paced exploration.

If you’re a traveler who loves seeing the big sights without the hassle of planning every detail, this trip could be perfect. It’s especially suited for those who enjoy a mix of adventure, comfort, and natural beauty, and don’t mind a busy itinerary. Just be prepared for early mornings and full days. Now, let’s break down what makes this tour appealing — and what to keep in mind.

Key Points

• Comprehensive itinerary covers all the must-see Iceland highlights along the Ring Road.
• Comfortable hotel stays make long travel days easier.
• Includes exciting activities like ice caving and whale watching, adding a touch of adventure.
• Small group experience offers a more personalized feel than large tours.
• Perfect for travelers with limited time who want an overview of Iceland’s highlights.
• Weather kit and outdoor gear recommended as you’ll be outside much of the time.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What You Can Expect from the Tour

This tour is designed as a thorough introduction to Iceland’s diverse scenery, with a good mix of natural wonders, cultural stops, and fun excursions. It’s a well-rounded option for those who want to see the country’s highlights without the stress of planning each step themselves.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Day 1: The Golden Circle & South Coast Highlights
The tour kicks off with a pick-up in Reykjavík, traveling to the UNESCO site Þingvellir National Park. Here, you’ll see the dramatic rift valley and learn about Icelandic history. It’s a pretty special start because you’re standing between two tectonic plates — a literal and figurative opening to Iceland’s landscape.

Next, you’ll visit the Geysir geothermal area, where Strokkur erupts roughly every 10 minutes, shooting water high into the air. Watching this natural spectacle never gets old, and it’s a great photo op. Then it’s on to Gullfoss, one of Iceland’s most famous waterfalls, with multiple tiers that thunder into the canyon below.

After a scenic lunch, the tour heads to the South Coast, stopping at Seljalandsfoss — where you can walk behind the waterfall — and Skógafoss, renowned for its powerful cascade. The day ends at Reynisfjara’s black sand beach, with its basalt columns and crashing waves.

What’s great about Day 1? It packs in a lot of Iceland’s most iconic sights into one day, giving you a solid introduction and fantastic photo opportunities. The downside? It’s a long day, with plenty of driving, so bring snacks and patience.

Day 2: Glaciers, Ice Caves & Jökulsárlón
This is a highlight-heavy day. After breakfast, you’ll visit Vík, the charming coastal village famous for its black sands. Then the real magic begins with the Katla Ice Cave tour (included in the Deluxe option). You’ll explore the inside of a glacier, marveling at frozen formations and icy tunnels — an experience everyone who loves a bit of adventure should consider.

Lunch follows in Vík before heading east to Fjaðrárgljúfur canyon — a stunning, winding gorge that looks like it belongs in a fairy tale. The next stop is Jökulsárlón, the glacial lagoon filled with floating icebergs. Walking among these giant ice chunks is surreal, and you’ll also visit Diamond Beach, where the ice pieces shimmer like jewels on black sand.

This day truly showcases Iceland’s glaciers and ice landscapes, and many travelers say the ice cave is a major highlight — “incredible to walk inside a glacier,” as some reviewers put it.

Consideration: Ice caves depend on weather conditions, so if you’re visiting outside winter, the tour might be different or unavailable. The long driving hours mean you’ll need to be prepared for a full day.

Day 3: East Fjords & Geothermal Baths
The route takes you through picturesque fishing villages like Djúpivogur, with its quaint harbor, then onward to Egilsstaðir. Summer travelers might add a visit to Borgarfjörður Eystri to see puffins, but in winter, the focus is on exploring East Iceland’s charming villages.

A relaxing stop at Vök Baths (included in the Deluxe package) offers a warm, geothermal soak with views over the lake — a perfect way to unwind after a day of travel. The day ends in Egilsstaðir, a good base for exploring the eastern part of the country.

Day 4: North Iceland Wonders
Starting with Stuðlagil Canyon, famous for its basalt columns, you’ll get a chance to walk alongside a striking blue glacier-fed river. Then it’s on to Dettifoss, Europe’s most powerful waterfall, which roars with raw power — definitely a “wow” moment.

Next, you’ll visit Námaskarð geothermal area with bubbling mud pots and steaming vents, followed by Dimmuborgir, a lava field with twisted formations, and Goðafoss, another spectacular waterfall. The day wraps up in Akureyri, Iceland’s second city.

Day 5: Whale Watching & Cultural Sights
Start your day with a whale watching tour (included in the Deluxe version), where depending on conditions, you might see orcas, humpbacks, or other whales in the fjords. Many reviews mention this as a memorable experience — “We saw humpbacks breaching right next to the boat,” one traveler shared.

In the afternoon, visit Borgarvirki, an ancient volcanic plug used as a fortress, then marvel at Hvítserkur, the striking sea stack that looks like a dragon drinking from the sea. The tour continues to Kolugljúfur Canyon, carved by a powerful river. The day ends in Laugarbakki.

Day 6: West Iceland & Return to Reykjavík
The final day explores Grábrók volcanic crater, where a short hike rewards you with panoramic views. Then it’s on to Hraunfossar, a series of waterfalls streaming through lava fields, and a visit to a traditional Icelandic horse farm — a chance to meet these iconic animals.

Finally, you’ll stop at Deildartunguhver, Europe’s strongest hot spring before heading back to Reykjavík, bringing your Iceland adventure full circle.

Experience Quality and Practicalities

Transport & Group Size: Traveling in a small group in a mini-bus makes the whole experience more intimate and flexible. You won’t be just one of hundreds, and your guide can personalize the experience a bit more. The tours are limited to 18 participants, which tends to strike a good balance between social and private.

Accommodation: Staying at comfortable hotels each night means you’ll be rested and ready for each day’s adventures. Good sleep is key when you’re covering so much ground.

Activities & Inclusions: The trip includes some fantastic extras — a glacier ice cave tour, whale watching, and soaking in geothermal baths. These add value and memorable moments that go beyond just sightseeing.

Weather & Gear: Iceland weather can be unpredictable, especially in winter. It’s wise to bring warm, waterproof clothing, hiking shoes, and outdoor gear. The tour does a great job accommodating outdoor activities but be prepared for rain or wind.

About the Price & Value

While the tour isn’t cheap, it bundles a lot into one package: guided transport, hotel stays, some activities, and entrance fees. For travelers wanting an all-in-one Iceland experience without the hassle of planning logistics, it can be very cost-effective. When you factor in the ice cave, whale watching, and geothermal baths, the value becomes clearer.

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Who Is This Tour Best For?

This trip suits those who want a comprehensive Iceland experience in a short time. It’s perfect if you’re okay with long days on the road and packed schedules. If you’re after a relaxed, slow-paced trip or traveling with very young children, this might feel a bit too intense. It’s ideal for adventure lovers, photo enthusiasts, and anyone eager to see Iceland’s most famous sights with the comfort of guided logistics.

Final Thoughts

This 6-day Ring Road tour offers a thorough, well-organized way to see Iceland’s highlights without the stress of planning every detail. You’ll experience the country’s most iconic waterfalls, glaciers, and volcanic landscapes alongside exciting activities like ice caving and whale watching.

The comfort of hotel stays and small groups makes this a practical choice for travelers who want to focus on the scenery and experiences rather than logistics. It’s a solid option for those tight on time but big on curiosity — eager to capture stunning views and make lasting memories.

If you’re ready to embrace Iceland’s raw beauty with guidance and convenience, this tour could be a fantastic way to tick a lot of boxes. Just remember, it’s a busy schedule, so pack your outdoor gear and prepare for an adventure of a lifetime.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
The tour isn’t specifically marketed for children under 6, and the busy schedule might be tiring for young kids. It’s best suited for older children or teenagers used to long days and outdoor activities.

How much time do we spend driving each day?
The itinerary involves quite a bit of driving, with some days having over 2 hours on the road, especially on Day 4. Be prepared for long stretches of scenery passing by.

Are the activities included suitable for everyone?
Most activities like sightseeing, geothermal baths, and whale watching are accessible. The ice cave tour is exciting but requires walking and outdoor gear, so check your comfort with cold and uneven surfaces.

What kind of accommodations are provided?
Comfortable hotels are included in the package, providing a good base after long days of exploration.

Do I need to book the Deluxe Tour for certain activities?
Yes, activities like the Katla Ice Cave and whale watching are included if you opt for the Deluxe Tour. These add a memorable touch to the trip.

Is it possible to cancel or change the booking?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making it flexible if your plans change.

What should I bring?
Warm clothing, hiking shoes, outdoor gear, and rainproof layers are recommended to stay comfortable while outdoors exploring Iceland’s unpredictable weather.

Are meals included?
No, lunch and dinner are not included, so plan accordingly. Pack snacks or plan for meals in towns along the route.

If you’re looking for a whirlwind Iceland experience with a mix of sightseeing, adventure, and comfort, this tour covers a lot of ground — literally. It’s a solid choice for travelers wanting to tick the big boxes and come away with unforgettable memories.

You can check availability for your dates here: