5-Day Small Group Journey Around Iceland

We drive northwards via the tunnel of Hvalfjörður to Borgarnes. Near Borgarnes, we stop at Grábrók Volcano, a volcanic fissure that erupted three thousand years ago. From there, we continue over Holtavörðuheiði highland plateau and arrive in the thriving farming area of northwest Iceland.

We drive past Skagafjörður, a deep fjord and valley and one of Iceland’s most prosperous agricultural regions. It boasts widespread dairy and sheep farming in addition to the horse breeding for which the district is famed. Skagafjörður is the only county in Iceland where horses outnumber people.

We will visit Glaumbær Museum, a historic turf farm that offers a glimpse into traditional Icelandic life. The museum features well-preserved turf houses that date back to the 18th and 19th centuries, showcasing how Icelanders lived in harmony with their harsh environment. Visitors can explore the old farmhouse, which has been carefully restored and furnished with period-appropriate items, providing an authentic experience of Icelandic rural life. The museum also offers insights into Icelandic history and culture, making it a fascinating destination for those interested in the country's heritage.

Continue over the highland plateau of Öxnadalsheidi to Akureyri, the capital of north Iceland. Overnight stay in Akureyri.

On this day, we concentrate on the beautiful area around Lake Mývatn. Lake Mývatn is a shallow lake in an area of active volcanism and boasts a high amount of biological activity.

Starting from Akureyri, the drive to Mývatn takes about an hour and a half. Along the way, we stop at Goðafoss, the "Waterfall of the Gods," a stunning cascade with historical significance.

We explore the unique volcanic formations at Dimmuborgir, known as the "Dark Castles." These formations were created by volcanic activity thousands of years ago, making Dimmuborgir a popular destination for hikers and nature enthusiasts.

We take a stroll around the pseudocraters at Skútustaðagígar. These formations, created by steam explosions when hot lava flowed over wetlands, resemble volcanic craters but are not true volcanoes.

Another fascinating site is Grjótagjá, a small lava cave with a thermal spring inside. The cave is a popular spot for travellers seeking a unique and serene experience. The warm, clear water in the cave was once a favoured bathing spot, although it's less accessible now due to temperature fluctuations caused by volcanic activity. Grjótagjá also gained fame as a filming location for a popular TV series Game of Thrones, making it a must-visit for both nature lovers and fans of the show.

teaming fumaroles create an otherworldly landscape.

On our way to Egilsstaðir in the east part of Iceland, we stop by Dettifoss Waterfall, reputed to be the second most powerful waterfall in Europe after the Rhine Falls. We then cross Möðrudalsöræfi highland desert through Jökuldalur and to Egilsstaðir.

From Egilsstaðir, we drive through the Eastfjords to Höfn í Hornafirði. This part of the country has many narrow fjords surrounded by steep cliffs. In most of the fjords, we find small and attractive fishing villages. Visitors often overlook this part of the country despite its fantastic scenery, remote fishing villages, sparkling lakes, and traditional farms. The region boasts the sunniest weather in the county in summer, but in winter, it is often mystically hidden by a dense fog. The area is known for its wildlife, especially for being the only part of the country where herds of wild reindeer live. Initially, locals brought them to Iceland for farming, but the industry was never profitable, and the experiment was abandoned. The reindeer are still there and have roamed free since.

First stop is at Reyðarfjörður, a peaceful town nestled in a scenic fjord. It’s known for its rich World War II history, hiking trails, and dramatic natural beauty. The town also features a fascinating wartime museum.

We continue to Fáskrúðsfjörður, a picturesque village renowned for its French heritage. It features charming French-inspired architecture, a fascinating museum, and stunning fjord views, making it a unique cultural and natural destination.

After travelling through the amazingly beautiful East Fjords we finally arrive at Djúpivogur, a quaint coastal village, celebrated for its tranquil atmosphere and artistic charm. It’s home to the unique outdoor sculpture Eggin í Gleðivík and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and coastline.

Overnight stay in the town of Höfn í Hornafirði. Höfn is a charming fishing town in southeast Iceland, known for its stunning views of Vatnajökull, Europe’s largest glacier. It's a gateway to glacier tours, hiking, and fresh local seafood, especially langoustines.

We leave Höfn to drive along the southeast coast of Iceland. The first stop is at the Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon where we will take an amphibian boat tour. The Lagoon developed around 60 years ago with a continuous process of calving and falling icebergs from the glacier tongue Breiðamerkurjökull. These icebergs come in two shades: milky white and bright blue, an interplay of light and ice crystals. Below the Lagoon, the sparkling shards and orbs of ice wash up on the shore of Breiðamerkursandur, causing it to be called Diamond Beach in English.

Below the Lagoon, the sparkling shards and orbs of ice wash up on the shore of Breiðamerkursandur, causing it to be called Diamond Beach in English.

We continue through Vatnajökull National Park, passing Hvannadalshnúkur, Iceland’s highest peak (2,119m), before travelling across the vast lava fields of Eldhraun and the black glacial plains of Mýrdalssandur.

We pass by the village of Vík and visit the black sand beach at Reynisfjara, known for its colony of puffins, unusual geological formations and smashing tidal waves. Be careful not to step too close as the waves can be dangerous.

From Reynisfjara, you can view the impressive promontory Dyrhólaey where the sea has carved an enormous hole through the rock.

Next, we stop at Skógafoss, a majestic waterfall located on the Skógá River in Iceland, known for its impressive 60-meter drop and constant mist that creates vibrant rainbows on sunny days. Surrounded by lush greenery and steep cliffs, it stands as one of Iceland's most iconic and photogenic natural landmarks.

At Seljalandsfoss Waterfall, you can walk behind the waterfall but dress well, as the water mist behind the waterfall can make you wet.

On this day, we tour the renowned Golden Circle. We start with a visit to the majestic Gullfoss, often referred to as the "Golden Falls," a breathtaking two-tiered waterfall situated in the canyon of the Hvítá River in Iceland. Renowned for its sheer power and beauty, Gullfoss plunges dramatically into a rugged gorge, creating a mesmerizing spectacle that attracts visitors from around the world.

Then we head to the Geysir hot spring area, home to the famous Geysir hot spring from which all other geysers take their name. Geysir is no longer active, but another hot spring, Strokkur, erupts every few minutes.

Next, we visit the National Park at Þingvellir, where the North American and European tectonic plates drift apart and create a rift valley. The ancient Icelandic parliament, Alþingi, was established at Þingvellir in 930. Now residing in Reykjavík, it is one of the oldest surviving parliaments in the world. Þingvellir is, consequently, a sacred place for Icelanders.

From Þingvellir, we return to Reykjavík for our final night.