
Iceland
Iceland - Impressions
Iceland - Impressions
Duration
8 days
Start/End
Reykjavík
Tour type
Group
Level
Easy
Accommodation
Hotels and guesthouses typical of the region
Overview
On the Ring Road you see Iceland’s best-known waterfalls, stand between the continental plates at Þingvellir, explore the Dimmuborgir rock labyrinth at Mývatn and drive through the East Fjords to the Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon and along the south coast to Reynisfjara black beach.
Iceland is the most sparsely populated country in Europe – and a natural paradise. On this 8-day tour, you'll see the island's most famous waterfalls, hike to the Strokkur geyser in the geothermally active Haukadalur valley, stand between the tectonic plates in Þingvellir National Park, and explore the Dimmuborgir rock labyrinth at Lake Mývatn. The journey continues through the fjord landscape in the east to the Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon and along the south coast to the black sand beach of Reynisfjara. A visit to the turf farm Grenjaðarstaður reveals how Icelanders used to live.
Tour Code
Tour language
GermanItinerary
Day 1
Germany – Keflavík – Reykjavík
Arrival in Iceland
After landing at Keflavík Airport, a shuttle bus will take you comfortably to your hotel. Then, explore Reykjavík, the vibrant and modern capital of Iceland – and the northernmost capital city in the world. The name Reykjavík, meaning "smoky bay," comes from the rising steam of the surrounding hot springs. More than a third of Iceland's population lives here. Get ready for the diverse and exciting days ahead. You have the option of having dinner at one of the nearby restaurants. Overnight in the Reykjavík area. (Distance: approx. 50 km; Travel time: approx. 1 hour)
Germany – Keflavík – Reykjavík
Day 1
Arrival in Iceland
After landing at Keflavík Airport, a shuttle bus will take you comfortably to your hotel. Then, explore Reykjavík, the vibrant and modern capital of Iceland – and the northernmost capital city in the world. The name Reykjavík, meaning "smoky bay," comes from the rising steam of the surrounding hot springs. More than a third of Iceland's population lives here. Get ready for the diverse and exciting days ahead. You have the option of having dinner at one of the nearby restaurants. Overnight in the Reykjavík area. (Distance: approx. 50 km; Travel time: approx. 1 hour)
Day 2
Reykjavík – Golden Circle – Borgarnes
Gullfoss • Geysir Strokkur • Thingvellir (UNESCO)
Today begins with a unique and impressive excursion to the golden waterfall, Gullfoss. Located in the southwest of the country, this is arguably Iceland's most famous waterfall and offers a truly spectacular natural phenomenon. The glacial meltwater of the Hvítá River cascades down two tiers into a 70-meter-deep canyon. On warm days, up to 1,200 cubic meters of water per second can plunge into the gorge. Your next destination, the impressive Strokkur geyser, is located nearby, along with many other hot springs in the Haukadalur valley. The water erupts at regular intervals, shooting up to 30 meters into the air. You'll enjoy a relaxing walk in this geothermally active area. Afterwards, you and your tour group will travel to Þingvellir National Park (a UNESCO World Heritage Site). Here, you'll not only learn about Icelandic history but also witness firsthand how the Eurasian and North American tectonic plates are slowly drifting apart. Þingvellir has a long history as a meeting place for Icelanders, which your tour guide will be happy to explain in more detail. After an interesting day, you can discuss your experiences with your tour group on the way to your hotel in Borgarnes. Overnight in Borgarnes. (B) (Distance: approx. 330 km; Travel time: approx. 4.5-5 hours)
Reykjavík – Golden Circle – Borgarnes
Day 2
Gullfoss • Geysir Strokkur • Thingvellir (UNESCO)
Today begins with a unique and impressive excursion to the golden waterfall, Gullfoss. Located in the southwest of the country, this is arguably Iceland's most famous waterfall and offers a truly spectacular natural phenomenon. The glacial meltwater of the Hvítá River cascades down two tiers into a 70-meter-deep canyon. On warm days, up to 1,200 cubic meters of water per second can plunge into the gorge. Your next destination, the impressive Strokkur geyser, is located nearby, along with many other hot springs in the Haukadalur valley. The water erupts at regular intervals, shooting up to 30 meters into the air. You'll enjoy a relaxing walk in this geothermally active area. Afterwards, you and your tour group will travel to Þingvellir National Park (a UNESCO World Heritage Site). Here, you'll not only learn about Icelandic history but also witness firsthand how the Eurasian and North American tectonic plates are slowly drifting apart. Þingvellir has a long history as a meeting place for Icelanders, which your tour guide will be happy to explain in more detail. After an interesting day, you can discuss your experiences with your tour group on the way to your hotel in Borgarnes. Overnight in Borgarnes. (B) (Distance: approx. 330 km; Travel time: approx. 4.5-5 hours)
Day 3
Borgarnes – Laugar
Grábrók Crater • Hochebene Holtavörðuheiði • Akureyri
Today your journey continues north. En route, you'll stop to visit the Grábrók crater, which is easily accessible via a wooden staircase when the weather is suitable. The road that then leads you to the Holtavörðuheiði plateau is the most frequently used route from North Iceland south. Here, you'll make a short stop to admire the panoramic views from one of the hills and enjoy the breathtaking vista of the deep blue fjords. With your small group, you'll then travel towards Akureyri. En route, you'll cross the famous Skagafjörður horse-breeding region, home to the renowned Icelandic horses. These horses have a sturdy build and a thick winter coat, which is a great advantage in the Icelandic climate. You'll then reach Akureyri, the capital of North Iceland, where you'll have a short break. In the evening, you'll travel to your hotel in the Akureyri area, where dinner will be waiting for you. 2 nights in the Akureyri area. (B/D) (Distance traveled: approx. 450 km; travel time: approx. 5 hours)
Borgarnes – Laugar
Day 3
Grábrók Crater • Hochebene Holtavörðuheiði • Akureyri
Today your journey continues north. En route, you'll stop to visit the Grábrók crater, which is easily accessible via a wooden staircase when the weather is suitable. The road that then leads you to the Holtavörðuheiði plateau is the most frequently used route from North Iceland south. Here, you'll make a short stop to admire the panoramic views from one of the hills and enjoy the breathtaking vista of the deep blue fjords. With your small group, you'll then travel towards Akureyri. En route, you'll cross the famous Skagafjörður horse-breeding region, home to the renowned Icelandic horses. These horses have a sturdy build and a thick winter coat, which is a great advantage in the Icelandic climate. You'll then reach Akureyri, the capital of North Iceland, where you'll have a short break. In the evening, you'll travel to your hotel in the Akureyri area, where dinner will be waiting for you. 2 nights in the Akureyri area. (B/D) (Distance traveled: approx. 450 km; travel time: approx. 5 hours)
Day 4
Around Lake Mývatn
Turfhof Grenjaðarstaður • Dimmuborgir • Námaskardur • Pseudokrater Skútustaðir
To start your day, you'll visit the open-air museum at the historic turf farm Grenjaðarstaður. Here, you'll immerse yourself even more deeply in Icelandic culture and history. The farm showcases typical Icelandic turf construction, which was common until the end of the 19th century. The walls, built from thick layers of turf, and the grass-covered roofs are considered very durable building materials for the Icelandic climate. Your next destination is the picturesque area around Lake Mývátn, which is one of Iceland's most remarkable sights, particularly due to its volcanic features. The area is volcanically active, as it lies on the fault line between the Eurasian and North American tectonic plates. A volcanic eruption created a natural dam, preventing the accumulated water from draining away and forming Mývátn, also known as the "Midge Lake." To the east of the lake lies Dimmuborgir, a field of lava rocks, also known as the Rock Labyrinth. Enjoy a walk through the impressive surroundings (easy, approx. 1 km, walking time: approx. 30 min.). A stop at the Námaskarð geothermal area also offers the opportunity to marvel at the rising steam from numerous mud pots and to take an optional dip in the Earth Lagoon natural bath (optional, bookable in advance). During another short walk, you can also admire the pseudocraters of Skútustaðir. (F) (Distance: approx. 255 km; Travel time: approx. 3 hours)
Around Lake Mývatn
Day 4
Turfhof Grenjaðarstaður • Dimmuborgir • Námaskardur • Pseudokrater Skútustaðir
To start your day, you'll visit the open-air museum at the historic turf farm Grenjaðarstaður. Here, you'll immerse yourself even more deeply in Icelandic culture and history. The farm showcases typical Icelandic turf construction, which was common until the end of the 19th century. The walls, built from thick layers of turf, and the grass-covered roofs are considered very durable building materials for the Icelandic climate. Your next destination is the picturesque area around Lake Mývátn, which is one of Iceland's most remarkable sights, particularly due to its volcanic features. The area is volcanically active, as it lies on the fault line between the Eurasian and North American tectonic plates. A volcanic eruption created a natural dam, preventing the accumulated water from draining away and forming Mývátn, also known as the "Midge Lake." To the east of the lake lies Dimmuborgir, a field of lava rocks, also known as the Rock Labyrinth. Enjoy a walk through the impressive surroundings (easy, approx. 1 km, walking time: approx. 30 min.). A stop at the Námaskarð geothermal area also offers the opportunity to marvel at the rising steam from numerous mud pots and to take an optional dip in the Earth Lagoon natural bath (optional, bookable in advance). During another short walk, you can also admire the pseudocraters of Skútustaðir. (F) (Distance: approx. 255 km; Travel time: approx. 3 hours)
Day 5
Laugar – Dettifoss – Breiðdalsvík
Goðafoss • Dettifoss • Fjordlandschaft East Iceland • Mountain coffee
Today, a breathtaking experience awaits you at Goðafoss, one of Iceland's most beautiful and famous waterfalls, also known as the "Waterfall of the Gods." With a height of approximately 12 meters and a width of around 30 meters, it impresses with its imposing presence. While you enjoy this natural spectacle, your guide will share fascinating stories and legends that play a significant role in Icelandic culture. Afterward, the journey continues to another natural wonder: Dettifoss, the most powerful waterfall in Europe. During a walk, you can admire how the water plunges with tremendous force into a deep gorge before flowing into the Jökulsá á Fjöllum glacial river. Let yourself be enchanted by the overwhelming power of nature! With all these impressions, continue your journey into the quiet, sparsely populated east, enjoying the views of the impressive fjord landscapes you'll pass. You'll follow parts of the old Ring Road, crossing the Möðrudalsheiði plateau. A stop at a typical Icelandic "fjallakaffi," an impressive farm with glacier views, will allow you to enjoy traditional Icelandic pastries and coffee. After this welcome refreshment, you'll embark on the final leg of the day's journey, which will take you to your destination for the day, Egilsstaðir, or to the nearby East Fjords. You'll check into your hotel, where a hearty dinner awaits. Overnight stay near Egilsstaðir or Fáskrúðsfjörður. (B/L/D) (Distance traveled: approx. 420 km; travel time: approx. 5.5 hours)
Laugar – Dettifoss – Breiðdalsvík
Day 5
Goðafoss • Dettifoss • Fjordlandschaft East Iceland • Mountain coffee
Today, a breathtaking experience awaits you at Goðafoss, one of Iceland's most beautiful and famous waterfalls, also known as the "Waterfall of the Gods." With a height of approximately 12 meters and a width of around 30 meters, it impresses with its imposing presence. While you enjoy this natural spectacle, your guide will share fascinating stories and legends that play a significant role in Icelandic culture. Afterward, the journey continues to another natural wonder: Dettifoss, the most powerful waterfall in Europe. During a walk, you can admire how the water plunges with tremendous force into a deep gorge before flowing into the Jökulsá á Fjöllum glacial river. Let yourself be enchanted by the overwhelming power of nature! With all these impressions, continue your journey into the quiet, sparsely populated east, enjoying the views of the impressive fjord landscapes you'll pass. You'll follow parts of the old Ring Road, crossing the Möðrudalsheiði plateau. A stop at a typical Icelandic "fjallakaffi," an impressive farm with glacier views, will allow you to enjoy traditional Icelandic pastries and coffee. After this welcome refreshment, you'll embark on the final leg of the day's journey, which will take you to your destination for the day, Egilsstaðir, or to the nearby East Fjords. You'll check into your hotel, where a hearty dinner awaits. Overnight stay near Egilsstaðir or Fáskrúðsfjörður. (B/L/D) (Distance traveled: approx. 420 km; travel time: approx. 5.5 hours)
Day 6
Breiðdalsvík – Jökulsárlón – Skaftafell
Vatnajökull • Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon • Boat trip (optional) • Skaftafell
Today's leg of your journey is dedicated to Iceland's glaciers. On the way there, you and your fellow travelers will embark on a drive along the east coast. Along the way, you'll pass numerous small, idyllic fishing villages, deep fjords, and fascinating rock formations. According to legends and myths, these lava-carved figures are petrified trolls. Your journey continues through the sparsely populated landscape of Vatnajökull. This plateau glacier stretches across a vast area of 8,300 square kilometers and is considered Iceland's largest glacier. Your next destination is the glacial lagoon Jökulsárlón. This is Iceland's deepest lake and never freezes, as a small inflow from the sea regularly brings saltwater into it. You might witness icebergs calving from the glacier's tongue and learn from your guide about the impact of global warming on Iceland's glaciers. Optionally, you can also take an impressive boat tour, sailing through the thousands of years old ice (optional, bookable in advance). The tour is subject to weather and visibility conditions. Alternatively, you can use your free time to stroll along the shore or relax in a café. Afterwards, your journey continues towards Skaftafell National Park. Skaftafell enjoys a mild climate, resulting in a diverse and contrasting landscape. Wildflowers stand in stark contrast to the black sand plains and white glaciers, offering fantastic photo opportunities. At your accommodation near Skaftafell National Park, nestled in the countryside, you can enjoy a relaxing evening after this eventful day. Overnight stay near Skaftafell. (B) (Distance traveled: approx. 300 km; travel time: approx. 4 hours)
Breiðdalsvík – Jökulsárlón – Skaftafell
Day 6
Vatnajökull • Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon • Boat trip (optional) • Skaftafell
Today's leg of your journey is dedicated to Iceland's glaciers. On the way there, you and your fellow travelers will embark on a drive along the east coast. Along the way, you'll pass numerous small, idyllic fishing villages, deep fjords, and fascinating rock formations. According to legends and myths, these lava-carved figures are petrified trolls. Your journey continues through the sparsely populated landscape of Vatnajökull. This plateau glacier stretches across a vast area of 8,300 square kilometers and is considered Iceland's largest glacier. Your next destination is the glacial lagoon Jökulsárlón. This is Iceland's deepest lake and never freezes, as a small inflow from the sea regularly brings saltwater into it. You might witness icebergs calving from the glacier's tongue and learn from your guide about the impact of global warming on Iceland's glaciers. Optionally, you can also take an impressive boat tour, sailing through the thousands of years old ice (optional, bookable in advance). The tour is subject to weather and visibility conditions. Alternatively, you can use your free time to stroll along the shore or relax in a café. Afterwards, your journey continues towards Skaftafell National Park. Skaftafell enjoys a mild climate, resulting in a diverse and contrasting landscape. Wildflowers stand in stark contrast to the black sand plains and white glaciers, offering fantastic photo opportunities. At your accommodation near Skaftafell National Park, nestled in the countryside, you can enjoy a relaxing evening after this eventful day. Overnight stay near Skaftafell. (B) (Distance traveled: approx. 300 km; travel time: approx. 4 hours)
Day 7
Skaftafell – Vík – Reykjavík
Reynisfjara • Skógafoss • Seljalandsfoss • Reykjavík city tour
The journey continues south along Skaftafell National Park, which frequently reveals glacial tongues, via Kirkjubæjarklaustur and through the Eldhraun lava field. You'll stop in Vík, Iceland's southernmost town, and visit Dyrhólaey, the southernmost point of the main island. From here, you'll have a spectacular view of the coastline, and during the summer months, you might even spot numerous adorable puffins. Afterwards, you continue your journey towards the capital, Reykjavík. Along the way, you'll pass the Skógafoss and Seljalandsfoss waterfalls. Both waterfalls were once cliffs right by the sea. Over time, however, Iceland's landmass has risen, and so these steep cliffs now stand inland. Seljalandsfoss even invites you to take a walk behind its cascading waters – a truly special experience. After your journey, you'll arrive in Reykjavík, where you'll enjoy a short city tour followed by some free time to explore on your own. If you like, you can also relax in the evening at the spectacular new Sky Lagoon. Located at the port of Kársnes, near Reykjavík, the lagoon is Iceland's newest highlight. Enjoy a swim in the 75-meter-wide thermal pool that seems to merge seamlessly with the cold Atlantic Ocean (optional, bookable in advance). Overnight in Reykjavík. (B) (Distance: approx. 330 km; Travel time: approx. 4.5 hours)
Skaftafell – Vík – Reykjavík
Day 7
Reynisfjara • Skógafoss • Seljalandsfoss • Reykjavík city tour
The journey continues south along Skaftafell National Park, which frequently reveals glacial tongues, via Kirkjubæjarklaustur and through the Eldhraun lava field. You'll stop in Vík, Iceland's southernmost town, and visit Dyrhólaey, the southernmost point of the main island. From here, you'll have a spectacular view of the coastline, and during the summer months, you might even spot numerous adorable puffins. Afterwards, you continue your journey towards the capital, Reykjavík. Along the way, you'll pass the Skógafoss and Seljalandsfoss waterfalls. Both waterfalls were once cliffs right by the sea. Over time, however, Iceland's landmass has risen, and so these steep cliffs now stand inland. Seljalandsfoss even invites you to take a walk behind its cascading waters – a truly special experience. After your journey, you'll arrive in Reykjavík, where you'll enjoy a short city tour followed by some free time to explore on your own. If you like, you can also relax in the evening at the spectacular new Sky Lagoon. Located at the port of Kársnes, near Reykjavík, the lagoon is Iceland's newest highlight. Enjoy a swim in the 75-meter-wide thermal pool that seems to merge seamlessly with the cold Atlantic Ocean (optional, bookable in advance). Overnight in Reykjavík. (B) (Distance: approx. 330 km; Travel time: approx. 4.5 hours)
Day 8
Reykjavík – Keflavík – Germany
Transfer to the airport • Flight home
After your multifaceted trip to Iceland, the shuttle bus will take you from your hotel to Keflavík Airport today. With countless memories and impressions in tow, you will then begin your flight home. (F) (Distance: approx. 50 km; Travel time: approx. 1 hour)
Reykjavík – Keflavík – Germany
Day 8
Transfer to the airport • Flight home
After your multifaceted trip to Iceland, the shuttle bus will take you from your hotel to Keflavík Airport today. With countless memories and impressions in tow, you will then begin your flight home. (F) (Distance: approx. 50 km; Travel time: approx. 1 hour)
Services
What's included
Flight (economy) to Keflavík (KEF) and back, subject to availability; flight surcharge may apply.
7 nights in a double room with bath or shower/toilet
Daily breakfast (B), 2x dinner (D)
Shuttle transfer from Keflavík Airport to the hotel and back
Transport in air-conditioned vehicles
German-speaking, local tour guide
Entrance fees and national park fees
Walk in the geothermally active Haukadalur area
Visit to the Grenjaðarstaður peat farm
Climate protection contribution
Small group with a maximum of 16 guests
Guaranteed departure with a minimum of 6 guests
What's not included
Travel insurance (we are happy to put together an individual offer)
personal equipment
Visa and vaccinations, if required
Tip
Feeder flights, other departure airports or Rail&Fly (we are happy to put together a suitable offer)
Boat tour on the Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon (Day 6), payable on site
Sky Lagoon in Reykjavík (Day 7), payable on site
Character of the trip
Fitness
Easy
Altitude
Low
Culture / nature
Pure nature
The tour doesn't require any special athletic abilities. A normal level of fitness is sufficient for walks to waterfalls, lava fields, and viewpoints, sometimes on uneven or slippery terrain. Expect longer driving days on the Ring Road. Weatherproof clothing and sturdy footwear are essential in Iceland.
Dates and prices
Group dates
Single room supplement from 955 euros
