Private The Icelandic Highlands

Planning a trip to Iceland and looking for an adventure that truly shows you the country’s wild, untouched beauty? The Private The Icelandic Highlands tour promises just that—a full-day exploration into some of Iceland’s most spectacular and lesser-visited spots, all with the comfort of a private guide and the flexibility of a small group.

What makes this experience stand out? First, the dedicated photographer guide ensures your memories will be beautifully captured, which is a rare perk in highland tours. Second, the private nature of the tour means your itinerary is tailored to your pace and interests, giving you a more personalized adventure.

Of course, with a 14-hour day of rugged travel and outdoor activities, it’s not for everyone. You’ll need to be prepared for long hours on bumpy roads and variable weather conditions.

This tour is ideal for travelers who love scenic landscapes, want a comfortable yet adventurous day, and appreciate having professional photos of their trip. It suits those who prefer a more intimate, tailored experience rather than a large-group tour. If you’re seeking a deep dive into Iceland’s interior and want to avoid the crowds, this could be a great fit.

Key Points

• Personalized experience with a private guide and photographer.
• Full-day adventure exploring iconic and hidden highland sights.
• Includes professional photos of your journey at key locations.
• Comfortable private transport tailored to small groups.
• Accessible from mid-June to September due to road conditions.
• Requires good outdoor gear for variable weather and terrain.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring Iceland’s Hidden Gems: What You Can Expect

This tour offers a thorough immersion into Iceland’s less traveled landscapes, and as a traveler, you’ll love the chance to see some of the country’s most astonishing sights in a single day. We’re talking waterfalls, canyons, volcanic craters, and geothermal areas—nature’s own art gallery.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Haifoss is your first stop. As one of Iceland’s tallest waterfalls, it’s a sight to behold. The sheer power and height of this cascading water make it a perfect start for the day. The views are wide-ranging, and depending on the season, you might also catch rainbows framing the falls—an iconic Icelandic scene.

Next, your guide will take you to Gjáin, a lush, green valley filled with hidden waterfalls and hot springs. It’s a place that feels almost secret, tucked away from the usual tourist routes. The contrast between the vibrant vegetation and the bubbling springs creates a truly special atmosphere.

After that, you’ll visit Sigöldugljúfur Canyon, known for its towering walls and striking blue rivers. The canyon’s dramatic cliffs are breathtaking, and the color of the water adds an almost surreal quality. Many reviews mention how this spot is a highlight, with comments like “the views here are unreal,” which is quite fitting.

Ljótipollur, a crater lake with vivid red and green hues, rounds out the morning’s sightseeing. It’s a striking volcanic feature, showcasing Iceland’s fiery geological past. The vibrant colors of the lake and surrounding landscape make it an Instagram favorite, but it’s also just a quiet spot for reflection.

The afternoon is dedicated to Landmannalaugar, arguably the most famous part of the highlands. Known for its colorful volcanic mountains, bubbling hot springs, and rugged trails, it offers a mix of scenery and a chance for a leisurely hike. The terrain here is surreal—think purple, red, yellow, and green hues all in one place, created by volcanic activity. It’s a highlight for many travelers, especially those who enjoy walking and exploring at their own pace.

The Photography Experience

One of the most unique aspects of this tour is the inclusion of a professional photographer guide. This means you’ll not only see these incredible sights but also have someone capture high-quality photos during your stops. This can be especially valuable if you’re traveling solo or want stunning keepsakes that go beyond selfies.

The package includes 30 photos per person for groups of 1-4, and 45 for slightly larger groups, all edited and sent after your adventure. Travelers have shared that they appreciated having these photos, noting how they captured “amazing shots of the waterfalls and landscapes.”

Practicalities and Considerations

While the experience is tailored for comfort, it’s still a long day—about 14 hours—so packing appropriately is key. Good seasonal clothing (think layers, waterproof gear, gloves, hat) will make a difference, especially if the weather turns wet or windy. Rental options are available for hiking boots, waterproof jackets, and poles, which is helpful if you don’t want to pack all your gear.

The tour price of $2,285 per group up to four people might seem steep at first glance, but when you consider the private transport, personalized guidance, and professional photos, the value becomes clearer. It’s a more intimate, flexible way to experience the highlands compared to large-group bus tours, and the inclusion of photos adds sentimental value.

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What Past Travelers Say

Reviews highlight the stunning views and the personalized nature of the tour. One reviewer mentioned, “The scenery was unbelievable, and having a guide who’s also a photographer made the experience more memorable.” Others noted that the tour felt well-paced, with enough time at each stop to explore without feeling rushed.

However, some reviewers pointed out the need for proper gear and a good level of comfort with outdoor activities, given the rugged terrain and long day. The tour isn’t particularly family-friendly if you’re traveling with very young kids, mainly because of the length and terrain, but older children and teens who enjoy nature will likely find it rewarding.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This private highlands tour is particularly suited for adventurous travelers looking for a personalized experience in Iceland’s wild interior. It’s perfect for those who want to see the country’s iconic waterfalls, canyons, and volcanic landscapes with fewer crowds, and who value high-quality photographs of their trip.

If you’re comfortable with long days outdoors and variable weather, and you appreciate the idea of having a dedicated guide who’s also a photographer, this tour offers both scenery and memories in one package. It’s less ideal if you’re on a tight budget, or if you prefer a more relaxed, less intensive day.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for children?
While the tour is not explicitly marketed as family-friendly, older children who enjoy outdoor adventures and can handle a 14-hour day with rugged terrain might find it worthwhile. Keep in mind the long hours and outdoor conditions.

Do I need to bring my own gear?
You should bring proper seasonal clothing, including gloves, hat, wind/rainproof jacket, and warm layers. Waterproof jackets and hiking boots are available for rent if needed, which can be helpful if you prefer not to carry extra gear.

What is included in the price?
The tour includes private transportation, a certified glacier guide, a professional photographer, pickup and drop-off at your accommodation, and the photo package with edited images. Meals or snacks are not included.

When is this tour available?
It runs from mid-June to September, as road conditions in the highlands are only accessible during this period.

How many people are in a group?
The tour is private, with a maximum of 4 people for the standard package, and slightly larger groups up to 6 can be accommodated with more photos included.

What are the main highlights of this tour?
You’ll visit Haifoss, Gjáin, Sigöldugljúfur Canyon, Ljótipollur crater lake, and Landmannalaugar, all showcasing Iceland’s stunning scenery and volcanic history.

Final Thoughts

If you’re after an immersive, personalized experience into Iceland’s highlands, this private tour is a compelling option. The scenic stops are some of the most breathtaking in the country, and the inclusion of a professional photographer means you’ll leave with stunning images to remember your trip by.

It’s best suited for travelers who value comfort, privacy, and the chance to see Iceland’s wild side without the crowds. Be prepared for a long day, and make sure your gear is ready for the outdoors. If you’re looking for a way to combine adventure, scenery, and keepsakes into one memorable package, this tour could be just the thing.

Remember—Iceland’s highlands are a place of raw, rugged beauty, and this tour offers a window into that world with all the personalized touches that make it a special journey.

You can check availability for your dates here: