Day 1: Reykjavik & Blue Lagoon
- Reykjavik Food Tour : Discover Reykjavik’s foodie scene and sample delicious Icelandic cuisine on this walking tour. Visit a variety of Reykjavik eateries from restaurants to food trucks, and sample a selection of traditional dishes and street food favorites including Icelandic cheeses, lamb, homemade ice cream, and the famous Icelandic hot dogs. Along the way, pass by landmarks such as Hallgrimskirkja, the Harpa concert hall, and Parliament House.
- Harpa Concert Hall: Harpa is home to the Iceland Symphony Orchestra, Icelandic Opera and Reykjavík Big Band, which hold regular concerts throughout the year.
- Blue lagoon: Home to one of 25 wonders of the world, Blue Lagoon Iceland is a place where the powers of geothermal seawater create transformational spa journeys.
- Free Walking Tour: It takes you on foot around the heart of downtown Reykjavík to the main attractions downtown, Harpa concert hall, Parliament building, City hall and more. The main focus of this walking tour is the general history of Iceland and the evolution of Reykjavík as a town as well as stories of elves, vikings, food, nightlife, music, economic aspects and political affairs.
Sleep: Eyja Guldsmeden
Eyja Guldsmeden Hotel, located in Reykjavik, is a sustainability pioneer in the world of hospitality. This eco-conscious boutique hotel prides itself on its commitment to environmental responsibility, with initiatives such as energy-efficient lighting, locally sourced and organic cuisine, and a strong emphasis on reducing waste. Guests at Eyja Guldsmeden not only enjoy a luxurious and comfortable stay but also have the satisfaction of knowing they are contributing to a greener, more sustainable future in the heart of Iceland.
Day 2: Bláfjöll Mountains, Kerlingarfjöll Hot Spring Hike, Horseback Riding
- Lava Caving in the Blue Mountains: Explore the world beneath the earth’s surface on this small-group caving adventure in the lava tunnel Raufarhólshellir, one of the longest lava tubes in Iceland. Hidden deep beneath the Blue Mountains (Bláhnjúkur), Raufarhólshellir is home to a volcanic wonderland of rock formations, ice, and craters. Hike through the tunnels to a cave and see the inner workings of a volcanic eruption.
- Icelandic Horseback Riding Tour from Reykjavik: Get close to nature in the way of old Icelanders on this horseback riding experience from Reykjavik, dependent on transfer option. Hop on a small, sturdy, Icelandic horse, a breed originally brought here by the Vikings, and enjoy a relaxing ride through lava-laden scenery past mountains, lakes, and moors. Your ride is matched to your ability and led by an instructor. Hot drinks, riding equipment, and guidance is included.
- Kerlingarfjöll Hot spring hike: The easiest picturesque trek in the area is the hike to Kerlingarfjöll Hot Spring. With a very rewarding end! You will be traversing a green canyon with a river until you get to the only bathe-able hot pool in Kerlingarfjöll.
Sleep: Ion Hotel
The Ion Adventure Hotel, situated in the stunning Icelandic countryside, stands as a beacon of sustainability and eco-friendly design. This remarkable hotel harnesses the power of renewable geothermal energy to provide heating and electricity, reducing its carbon footprint significantly. Its commitment to sustainable practices goes beyond energy, with local, organic ingredients used in its cuisine, and a design that seamlessly integrates with the surrounding environment, making it a haven for eco-conscious travelers seeking a luxurious yet environmentally responsible experience.
Day 3: Þingvellir National Park, Gullfoss, Geysir, Strokkur, Laugarvatn Fontana Spa & Bakery
- Thingvellir National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage site and is known for its dramatic landscape, which was formed by the movement of tectonic plates. Geysir Geothermal Area is home to the famous Strokkur geyser, which erupts every few minutes, shooting water up to 30 meters into the air. Gullfoss Waterfall is one of Iceland’s most iconic and dramatic waterfalls.
- Gulfoss: Gullfoss is one of Iceland’s most iconic waterfalls, known for its breathtaking double cascade that plunges into a deep canyon along the Hvítá River. Its name translates to “Golden Falls,” a reference to the golden hue the glacial water often takes on as it tumbles over the falls. Gullfoss is a prominent feature on Iceland’s famous Golden Circle tourist route and is a must-visit destination for travelers exploring the country’s natural wonders.
- Geysir: Geysir is a famous geothermal area in Iceland, renowned for the spouting hot springs and geysers that give rise to the term “geyser.” The Great Geysir itself, which the word is named after, has become largely dormant but occasionally erupts to significant heights.
- Strokkur: Strokkur is a highly active geyser located in the Geysir geothermal area in Iceland. It erupts approximately every 6-10 minutes, shooting scalding water and steam up to 30 meters (98 feet) into the air, captivating spectators with its frequent and impressive displays.
- Laugarvatn Fontana.: Laugarvatn Fontana is a geothermal spa and wellness center situated on the shores of Lake Laugarvatn in Iceland. It offers visitors a unique experience of relaxation in natural hot springs, steam baths, and saunas, all while enjoying picturesque views of the surrounding landscape. Guests experience a geothermal bakery first hand, digging out a pot of fresh bread from the hot black sand. Guests are offered to taste the bread, served hot from the ground with Icelandic butter. This is something you should not miss!
Sleep: Highland Base
Highland Base Hotel in Iceland offers a unique and sustainable lodging experience in the remote highlands of Iceland. This eco-conscious hotel minimizes its environmental impact through responsible waste management, energy-efficient practices, and a focus on preserving the pristine natural surroundings, making it an ideal choice for travelers seeking an authentic and sustainable adventure in the heart of Iceland’s wilderness.
Or stay in Selfoss Torfhús Retreat
Torfhús Retreat in Iceland offers a serene escape for travelers seeking a tranquil and immersive experience in nature. Nestled amid Iceland’s breathtaking landscapes, this retreat provides cozy and authentic turf houses, inviting guests to unwind in a rustic yet comfortable environment while soaking in the pristine beauty of the surrounding wilderness. Torfhús Retreat is sustainable by design, with its traditional turf houses reflecting Iceland’s historical architecture and blending seamlessly with the environment, while its eco-conscious practices include energy-efficient heating and a commitment to preserving the natural beauty of the surrounding area.
Day 4: Secret Lagoon, Kerid Crater, Friðheimar Greenhouse
- Secret Lagoon: The Secret Lagoon, or “Gamla Laugin,” is one of Iceland’s oldest geothermal pools and a hidden gem in the town of Flúðir. Surrounded by stunning natural landscapes, it offers a serene and less crowded alternative to the more famous Blue Lagoon, allowing visitors to soak in warm, mineral-rich waters while taking in the beauty of the Icelandic countryside.
- Kerid Crater: Kerid is a striking volcanic crater located in Iceland’s Golden Circle region, known for its vivid, aquamarine-hued lake at the bottom. The vivid contrast between the red volcanic rock and the deep blue water, as well as its accessible location along the tourist route, make Kerid a popular and visually captivating stop for travelers exploring Iceland’s natural wonders.
- Frioheimar Greenhouse: Friðheimar is a greenhouse and restaurant located in Iceland, known for its cultivation of tomatoes in a year-round, geothermally heated environment. Visitors can enjoy a unique dining experience within the greenhouse, savoring dishes made with their fresh tomatoes while surrounded by lush greenery and learning about sustainable agriculture practices.
Sleep: Skálakot Manor Hotel
Skálakot Manor Hotel offers a charming and historic accommodation option in the Icelandic countryside, where guests can experience the rich heritage and warm hospitality of the region. Set amidst picturesque landscapes, this boutique hotel provides a tranquil retreat with a focus on personalized service and a genuine connection to Iceland’s rural traditions. Skálakot Manor Hotel is sustainable through its eco-friendly practices, including energy-efficient systems, locally sourced and organic cuisine, and a commitment to preserving the natural surroundings, making it a responsible choice for environmentally conscious travelers.
Day 5: Sólheimajökull Glacier,Skógafoss and Seljalandsfoss Waterfalls, Skogar Museum
- Skogar Museum: Visit Skogar Museum and take a tour of one of Iceland’s most iconic sights, a traditional turf house. Named after the turf used to create the walls and the roof, these cheap but effective houses helped the early Icelandic people to survive the region’s harsh seasons. Learn about the construction of these homes, the families who lived there and how a unique culture evolved out of these humble communities.
- Seljalandsfoss is a 196 ft tall waterfall located along the popular ring road. Behind the flow of water is a path, allowing visitors to peek behind the curtain of water cascading over the rocks above.
- Skógafoss: one of the largest and most recognizable waterfalls in Iceland. The 200 ft high falls forms a constant mist that floats in the air, if viewed in the sunlight the mist can create rainbows. The sound and view of the thundering water cutting through the green hills make the falls a must-see on any trip to Iceland.
- Sólheimajökull Glacier Hike: Equipped with crampons and an ice axe, hike through the dramatic glacier valley and along the black sand flood plains to the edge of the ice. Enjoy stunning, panoramic views of the surrounding mountains, glaciers and the Eyjafjallajökull volcano. The guide will explain the volcanic history of the area and the effects of global warming.
Stay another night at Skálakot Manor Hotel
Day 6: Possible stops on way back to Reykjavik
- Fagradalsfjall Volcano: Fagradalsfjall is an active volcano located on the Reykjanes Peninsula in Iceland, and it gained international attention when it erupted in March 2021 after a nearly 6,000-year slumber. This volcanic event attracted both scientific interest and tourists eager to witness the mesmerizing display of flowing lava and fiery eruptions, making it a unique and accessible natural spectacle for visitors.
- Seljalandsfoss waterfall & Gljufrabui: Visiting Seljalandsfoss waterfall and Gljúfrabúi is a fantastic opportunity to experience two stunning waterfalls in the same area. Seljalandsfoss is a famous waterfall with a walking path that allows you to go behind the cascading water for a unique perspective. Gljúfrabúi, on the other hand, is a hidden gem located in a narrow canyon, and you can enter it to get very close to the waterfall. It’s a wonderful two-for-one experience for nature enthusiasts and photographers, located not far from each other on the southern coast of Iceland.
- Reykjadalur: Reykjadalur, which translates to “Steam Valley” in English, is a geothermal area and a popular hiking destination in Iceland. It is known for its stunning natural beauty, hot springs, and a warm river where visitors can bathe in a unique, natural, and scenic hot spring setting. The valley is located near Hveragerði, not far from Reykjavik, and it offers a relatively accessible and rewarding outdoor experience for those who enjoy both hiking and geothermal bathing.
- Eat at Fjöruborðið
