8-Day Iceland Winter Ring Road Tour: Ice Cave, Whale Watching & Aurora | Tröll Expeditions
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Tour Description

This 8-day guided tour offers a complete circle of Iceland, starting and ending in Reykjavík. Key sights include the Golden Circle (Gullfoss, Geysir, and Þingvellir), the South Coast with its black sand beaches, and the Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon. You will also explore the remote East Fjords, the volcanic Lake Mývatn area in the North, and the Snæfellsnes Peninsula in the West. This itinerary ensures you visit all the major regions of the country in one continuous journey.

This 8-day Ring Road tour is a practical choice for travelers who want to see the entire country without the stress of driving themselves. The route follows the main highway that circles Iceland, covering approximately 1,332 kilometers (828 miles).

The journey begins with the Golden Circle, where you will see the continental plates meeting at Þingvellir National Park, the erupting Strokkur geyser, and the Gullfoss waterfall. As the tour moves to the South Coast, the scenery shifts to high cliffs and waterfalls like Seljalandsfoss. You will visit Reynisfjara, a beach known for its dark volcanic sand and basalt columns. Further east, the tour stops at the Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon, where large blocks of ice float in a deep lake before drifting to sea.

After traveling through the steep mountains of the East Fjords, you will reach North Iceland. This region features the geothermal wonders of Lake Mývatn and the Dimmuborgir lava fields, which look like ancient rock citadels. Following a stop in Akureyri, Iceland’s second-largest town, the tour heads to the Snæfellsnes Peninsula in the West. This area contains many of Iceland’s different landscapes in one place, including the famous Kirkjufell mountain.

The tour includes professional transport and accommodation. For those looking for more activity, you can add optional experiences like horseback riding, lava caving, or ice cave explorations during the booking process. This tour provides an organized, factual introduction to Iceland’s geography, making it easy for visitors to understand the island’s unique natural history.

Start from

From Reykjavík

Open season

May - September

Duration

8 Days

Pick-up

Minibus tour: Pick up & Drop off included

Difficulty

Easy



Map and Itinerary

Day 1: The Golden Circle

Our adventure begins with an early morning departure from Reykjavík as we set out on the classic Golden Circle route. You’ll witness Iceland’s geothermal wonders, thundering waterfalls, and historic landscapes. In the evening, we continue toward the South Coast for an overnight stay in the countryside.

Please note: The itinerary is subject to change due to weather, road conditions, and availability of activities. Your guide will always ensure the best and safest experience possible.

1

Meeting and greeting from Reykjavik

Your 8-day adventure starts promptly at 8:00 AM in Reykjavík; after meeting your group, you will begin a comfortable minibus journey through the Golden Circle, complete with local stories and photo tips from your guide.

2

Þingvellir National Park

At Þingvellir National Park, the first stop of the day, you will witness the stunning sight of volcanic fields and mountains blanketed in snow. This UNESCO World Heritage site is uniquely beautiful, showcasing the exposed North American and Eurasian tectonic plates moving apart and holding significant cultural heritage as the founding location of Iceland's first parliament in 930 AD.

3

Bruarfoss Waterfall

Often considered a hidden gem within Iceland's breathtaking landscapes, Brúarfoss is famous as "Iceland's Bluest Waterfall."

While it may be smaller than other famous cascades, its unique beauty lies in the serenity of its setting. The silky, sapphire-blue waters create a surreal landscape as they cascade over dark lava rocks. This vibrant blue stands in stunning contrast to the surrounding black rock and the bright green moss, making it a picturesque location perfect for nature lovers and photographers seeking to explore Iceland's untouched wilderness.

4

Geysir Geothermal Area

Next, explore the lively Haukadalur Geothermal Area, a valley teeming with hot springs. Get your camera ready for the famed Strokkur geyser, which spectacularly erupts every few minutes. This Golden Circle stop offers a stunning, up-close view of Iceland's raw energy, where the original, now-dormant Great Geysir named all geysers worldwide.

5

Gullfoss Waterfall

The final stop on the Golden Circle is the beautiful Gullfoss ("Golden Waterfall"). Witness the raw power of the glacial river as it dramatically plunges down two tiers into a deep canyon, providing a spectacular and unforgettable conclusion to your tour.

Optional Activity: Horseback riding

If you chose to add on the extra activity, your day will finish with a peaceful horseback riding tour. You’ll get to ride a gentle Icelandic horse through the quiet countryside, a perfect and relaxing end to a day full of incredible sights.
***Please note: not suitable for people over 120 kgs or people in bad shape.

6

Seljalandsfoss

Our first stop is Seljalandsfoss, a unique waterfall famous for the short trail that allows you to walk safely behind its cascading curtain of water, providing an unforgettable South Coast experience.

7

Accommodation: Hotel Drangslid (or Similar) with breakfast

Your minibus will then transport you to your accommodation ,typically Hotel Drangslid or similar accommodation. Enjoy a warm meal, relax in peaceful surroundings far from city lights, and prepare for possible Northern Lights viewing right outside your room.

Day 2: South Coast & Katla Adventure

Today we explore Iceland’s spectacular South Coast, home to iconic waterfalls, black sand beaches, and mighty glaciers. You’ll strap on crampons and hike across ancient ice with a professional glacier guide. A true highlight of the trip.

Please note: The daily itinerary is subject to change due to weather, road conditions, and availability of activities. Activates may be moved between days. Your guide will always ensure the best and safest experience possible.

1

Morning Meetup: Breakfast and Briefing

For Day 2, Your journey will start from the hotel between 8:00 AM and 9:00 AM, after you've enjoyed breakfast. Your guide will provide you with a more accurate departure time and plan the night before.

2

Seljalandsfoss

Our first stop is Seljalandsfoss, a unique waterfall that allows you to walk behind its cascading curtain of water for an unforgettable experience.

2

Skógafoss

Next, we visit Skógafoss, one of Iceland's largest and most beautiful waterfalls. You can climb the adjacent staircase for a spectacular bird’s-eye viewpoint, or simply admire the cascade’s incredible power from the base, making it a must-see South Coast attraction.

3

Included Activity: Katla Ice Cave

The day's highlight is a thrilling tour to the Katla Ice Cave. We will jump into a specially-equipped Super Jeep and drive into the rugged highlands, admiring fields of moss and majestic mountains on our way. Inside the cave, you will explore the powerful "Dragon Glass" formations of ice and volcanic ash.

4

Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach

Following your hike, we visit Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach, where massive Atlantic waves crash against the unique basalt columns and cliffs, with the dramatic Dyrhólaey arch visible in the distance.

5

Accommodation: Hvita Inn (or Similar) Vík í Mýrdal with breakfast

Finally, your day concludes in the charming village of Vík í Mýrdal, Iceland's southernmost town. Situated near magnificent coastal cliffs and a wide black sand beach, Vík is a beautiful and peaceful place to unwind. You will spend the night at your accommodation near Vík, ready for the next day's adventures.

Day 3: Glacier Lagoon & Hike

Your adventure today takes you to the magnificent east of Iceland, a region of powerful glaciers and dramatic landscapes.

Please note: The itinerary is subject to change due to weather, road conditions, and availability of activities. Your guide will always ensure the best and safest experience possible.

1

Morning Meetup: Breakfast and Briefing

For Day 3, Your journey will start from the hotel between 8:00 AM and 9:00 AM, after you've enjoyed breakfast. Your guide will provide you with a more accurate departure time and plan the night before.

2

Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon

Next, we journey to the astonishing Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon, a popular glacial lake filled with massive icebergs calmly drifting toward the ocean. This stunning, Hollywood-featured sight is also where you can often spot seals swimming.

3

Diamond Beach

Across the road from the lagoon lies Diamond Beach, where glittering ice fragments from Jökulsárlón are scattered across black volcanic sands. The dazzling contrast of light and dark makes this one of Iceland’s most photogenic locations.

4

Included Activity: Glacier Hike in Skaftafell

Next, we meet our certified glacier guide for an unforgettable adventure on the ice. After gearing up with helmets, crampons, and ice axes, we’ll step onto the glacier, an ever-changing world of blue ice, deep crevasses, and frozen sculptures. If weather or safety factors prevent hiking at one glacier, the tour may instead take place at another beautiful and suitable glacier.

5

Accommodation: Hótel Höfn (or Similar) with Breakfast

We will spend the night in a hotel nearby, surrounded by the dramatic scenery of the East, leaving you with lasting memories of Iceland's glacial wonders.

Day 4: Exploring The East Fjords

On your fourth day, you will journey through the captivating East Fjords, a region of dramatic landscapes and peaceful fishing villages. This is a special part of Iceland, offering a chance to spot wild reindeer roaming the high mountain ridges. You'll travel along scenic coastal roads with views of the magnificent Vatnajökull glacier in the west, and get a sense of the rich Icelandic history tied to its coastal communities. This quiet and beautiful region offers a serene contrast to the more rugged adventures of previous days.

Please note: The itinerary is subject to change due to weather, road conditions, and availability of activities. Your guide will always ensure the best and safest experience possible.

1

Morning Meetup: Breakfast and Briefing

For Day 4, Your journey will start from the hotel between 8:00 AM and 9:00 AM, after you've enjoyed breakfast. Your guide will provide you with a more accurate departure time and plan the night before.

2

Lake Lagarfljót

As you travel through the East Fjords, you'll pass by Lake Lagarfljót, a long and narrow lake shrouded in local folklore. Keep an eye out for the legendary Lagarfljótsormurinn, a mythical worm-like creature said to live in its depths—Iceland's very own version of the Loch Ness Monster! This fascinating story adds a touch of mystery to the stunning scenery as you continue your journey.

Optional Activity: Vök Baths

Your day culminates with an opportunity to relax and immerse yourself in Iceland's geothermal nature at the optional Vök Baths. Located on a beautiful lake, Vök Baths offers floating geothermal pools and a tranquil spa experience, a perfect way to unwind before heading to your accommodation in the East Iceland area. This optional activity provides a peaceful and unique contrast to the day's sightseeing, allowing you to fully appreciate the region's serene beauty before you rest for the night.

3

East Fjords

A region of dramatic landscapes and peaceful fishing villages. This is a special part of Iceland, offering a chance to spot wild reindeer roaming the high mountain ridges. You'll travel along scenic coastal roads with views of the magnificent Vatnajökull glacier in the west, and get a sense of the rich Icelandic history tied to its coastal communities. This quiet and beautiful region offers a serene contrast to the more rugged adventures of previous days.

4

Accommodation: Hótel Valaskjálf (or Similar) with breakfast

Your overnight stay is uniquely positioned in Iceland's largest forest with picturesque Lake Lagarfljót views. This serene setting, is your perfect nature-immersed retreat after a long day of exploring the East Fjords.

Day 5: Exploring North-East Iceland

Explore the geological wonders of North Iceland, starting with the basalt columns of Stuðlagil Canyon and the geothermal activity around Lake Mývatn at Námaskarð and Dimmuborgir. The day climaxes with the colossal power of Dettifoss and the beauty of Goðafoss, before settling for the night in Akureyri

Please note: The itinerary is subject to change due to weather, road conditions, and availability of activities. Your guide will always ensure the best and safest experience possible.

1

Morning Meetup: Breakfast and Briefing

For day 5, your journey will start from the hotel between 8:00 AM and 9:00 AM, after you've enjoyed breakfast. Your guide will provide you with a more accurate departure time and plan the night before."

2

Stuðlagil Canyon

From May-September

Your fifth day is dedicated to exploring the geological wonders of North Iceland, beginning at the breathtaking Stuðlagil Canyon. After a short walk, you’ll reach a viewpoint that offers a magnificent view of the canyon’s deep turquoise water and incredible basalt columns. While access to the river is not possible from this viewpoint, the sight itself is a stunning introduction to the day's journey into a land shaped by fire and ice.

3

Dettifoss

From May-September

We visit Dettifoss, known as the most powerful waterfall in Europe. This colossal fall, featured in the movie Prometheus, rushes 44 meters into a canyon with incredible force.

4

Námaskarð

The day is packed with amazing sights, including the active geothermal area of Námaskarð, where you'll see bubbling mud pools and steaming vents.

5

Dimmuborgir

Next, explore a unique landscape straight out of Icelandic folklore at Dimmuborgir. This captivating lava field near Lake Mývatn is home to a labyrinth of towering, peculiarly shaped lava pillars that local legends claim are trolls and elves.

6

Lake Mývatn

Our journey begins at the remarkable Lake Mývatn, a beautiful area known for its unique volcanic formations, serene hot springs, and diverse birdlife.

7

Goðafoss or "Waterfall of the Gods

Finally, we journey to Goðafoss, the "Waterfall of the Gods." This spectacular waterfall holds immense historical significance as the believed site where ancient idols were discarded, marking Iceland’s transition to Christianity—a mandatory stop on any North Iceland tour.

8

Accommodation: Hotel Nordurland (or Similar) with Breakfast

Our day concludes in Akureyri, the vibrant "Capital of the North." You will have the entire evening free to explore the city's charming downtown. As night falls, be sure to check the dark northern skies for a chance to witness the spectacular Northern Lights, a perfect end to your North Iceland sightseeing.

Day 6: Exploring North Iceland

Start your final day in the beautiful northern region with an exploration beginning in Akureyri, known as the "Capital of the North."

From Akureyri, you'll take a short, scenic drive to the tranquil fishing village of Hauganes. This picturesque coastal spot is where your morning whale watching adventure will begin, offering breathtaking views before you start your journey back to the capital city.

Please note: The itinerary is subject to change due to weather, road conditions, and availability of activities. Your guide will always ensure the best and safest experience possible.

1

Accommodation: Hotel Nordurland (or Similar)

For Day 6, Your journey will start from the hotel between 8:00 AM and 9:00 AM, after you've enjoyed breakfast. Your guide will provide you with a more accurate departure time and plan the night before."

2

Akureyri

The day starts in the charming town of Akureyri, often called the ‘Capital of the North’

3

Hauganes

A short drive from the town is the peaceful fishing village of Hauganes. This picturesque village offers a lovely harbor and a quiet black sand beach, with breathtaking views of the ocean and the surrounding tall mountains, providing a perfect setting for your morning adventure.

4

Eyjafjörður Fjord

The highlight of your day is a thrilling whale watching boat tour from Hauganes. Embark on a journey into the Eyjafjörður Fjord to spot the majestic Humpback whales and other fascinating marine life that frequent these rich waters. The experience of seeing these gentle giants in their natural habitat, set against a backdrop of stunning coastal scenery, is an unforgettable final memory of your northern adventure.

Included Activity: Hauganes Whale Watching

The highlight of your morning is a thrilling whale watching boat tour from Hauganes. Journey into the Eyjafjörður Fjord to spot majestic Humpback whales and other marine life against a stunning coastal backdrop, creating an unforgettable memory of your North Iceland adventure.

Please note that a warm extra clothing can be rented as an extra

5

Accommodation: Hótel Borgarnes (or Similar) with breakfast

At the end of an eventful day, You will be stayng at peaceful guesthouse located in the scenic countryside of West Iceland, providing comfortable accommodation, dining options, and stunning mountain and nature views.

Day 7: Exploring Snæfellsnes Peninsula

Your journey continues as we head from North to West Iceland to explore the magnificent Snæfellsnes Peninsula, famously known as "Iceland in Miniature" due to its incredible variety of landscapes.

Please note: The itinerary is subject to change due to weather, road conditions, and availability of activities. Your guide will always ensure the best and safest experience possible.

1

Accommodation: Hvita inn (or Similar)

For Day 7 , Your journey will start from the hotel between 8:00 AM and 9:00 AM, after you've enjoyed breakfast. Your guide will provide you with a more accurate departure time and plan the night before.

2

Gerðuberg

Our first stop features Gerðuberg, a spectacular wall of towering hexagonal basalt columns, showcasing a unique geological formation created by ancient volcanic forces on the Snæfellsnes Peninsula.

3

Ytri-Tunga

Next, we visit the beautiful Ytri-Tunga beach. This rare white sand shore is one of the best locations on the Snæfellsnes Peninsula to observe a seal colony lounging on the coastal rocks.

4

Djúpalónssandur

Next, we head to the striking Djúpalónssandur, a beautiful black pebble beach on the peninsula. Your approach leads through a maze of remarkable, free-standing lava pillars, offering an otherworldly sight beneath the majestic Snæfellsjökull glacier.

5

Kirkjufell mountain

No trip to the peninsula is complete without seeing the iconic Kirkjufell Mountain. This phenomenal, arrow-shaped landmark is one of Iceland's most photographed spots and was famously featured as the "arrowhead mountain" in Game of Thrones.

6

Accommodation: Hotel Hafnarfjall (or Similar) with Breakfast

This day offers a full immersion into the dramatic landscapes that define West Iceland. You will experience everything from towering mountains and glaciers to unique volcanic formations and rugged coastlines, all within one unforgettable area. After a full day of exploration, you will spend the night in the area, a perfect conclusion to a day of discovery.

Day 8: Exploring West Iceland

The final day of the Troll.is "8 Days Around Iceland" tour, focuses on exploring the historical and geological highlights of West Iceland before returning to the capital.

Please note: The itinerary is subject to change due to weather, road conditions, and availability of activities. Your guide will always ensure the best and safest experience possible.

1

Accommodation: Hotel Hafnarfjall (or Similar) with Breakfast

For Day 8, Your journey will start from the hotel between 8:00 AM and 9:00 AM, after you've enjoyed breakfast. Your guide will provide you with a more accurate departure time and plan the night before.

2

Optional Activity: Víðgelmir Lava Cave

As a final thrilling option, enhance your trip by adding an optional extra tour to the Víðgelmir Lava Cave. Venture into one of Iceland's largest lava tubes to explore an underground path created by ancient lava thousands of years ago, perfect for an added West Iceland adventure.

Disclaimer: This scheduling for this optional activity applies when no special arrangements have been made for the tour.

3

Hraunfossar and Barnafoss

Your adventure continues to two unique and beautiful waterfalls. First, marvel at Hraunfossar, where countless streams of water cascade directly out of the Hallmundarhraun lava field, creating a special sight that appears to emerge magically from beneath the earth. Just a short walk away is Barnafoss, a brightly colored blue stream that rushes with impressive force through a narrow ravine, offering a stunning contrast of power and color on your West Iceland tour.

4

Reykholt

Next, we visit Reykholt, a site of significant historical importance, renowned as the former home of medieval scholar and chieftain Snorri Sturluson, a pivotal figure in Icelandic history.

5

Deildartunguhver

Your journey begins at Deildartunguhver, recognized as Europe's most powerful hot spring. Witness this spectacular display of Iceland's geothermal power firsthand as intense heat, boiling water, and steam rise from the ground, surrounded by vibrant red mineral deposits.

6

Arrival Back to Reykjavík

After a day of exploration and adventure, you will head back to the capital, arriving in Reykjavík in the late afternoon 7-8 PM depending on weather and road conditions, a perfect conclusion to your tour.



Available Add-ons

Horseback Riding

Explore the wilderness on an Icelandic Horse

$149
Vök Baths

Nourish your body and soul in natural thermal baths

$62
Lava Cave

Explore Iceland's largest Lava Cave, Víðgelmir.

$70
Waterproof Jacket

Rent a jacket to keep you dry

$22
Waterproof Pants

Rent pants to keep you dry

$22
Support Shoes

Rent shoes for keeping your ankles safe to prevent injuries.

$29
Luggage Storage

Store your extra luggage.

$22
Beanie and Gloves

Buy our Troll Beanie and Gloves to feel part of our winter Trolls and keep you warm in the Icelandic cold

$22
Neck-warmer

Buy our Troll Neck-warmer to feel part of our winter Trolls and and protect your face from cold wind

$4
Summer Cap

Buy our Troll Summer-Cap to feel part of our summer Trolls and protect yourself from the sun

$10
Price from
$2,890
/ traveler
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Frequently Asked Questions

  • •Warm clothes (first layer)
  • Waterproof outdoor clothing (second layer)
  • Hiking boots (available for rent when booking)
  • Swimsuit and a towel
  • Joy and happiness!

For pickup, select your designated location in Reykjavík from the drop-down menu when booking; please inform us of your choice at least 42 hours in advance if you are unsure at the time of booking.

Pickup is scheduled between 8:00 AM and 8:45 AM from your chosen point and is not available from Keflavík airport or outside the greater capital area.

  • The minimum age suggested for this tour is 8 years old since there are some included activities following that restriction
  • For glacier hike, minimum age requirement is 8, in additions, the minimum shoe size to be able to participate in the tour is EU 34. If children under those ages are on the tour, then an adult needs to stay with them while others do these activities.
  • For ice cave, the minimum age limit is 6.
  • For the extra horseback riding activity, the age limit is 10
  • As per legal requirements, children aged six and below must utilise a child seat. Therefore, it is necessary to reserve a seat on the bus specifically for the child seat.

  • All multi-day tours can be cancelled 24 hours before the departure time by sending a written email to info@troll.is. You will receive a full refund except the 3% transaction fee. All cancellations requested less than 24 hours from the departure time are non refundable.
  • In the case of cancellation of the tour by the operator because of extreme weather, road conditions, or other factors, we will assist you with rebooking to another date or booking other activities when possible or provide a full refund less the 3% transaction fee
  • The 24-hour policy “applies to extras as well (rental Hiking Boots, Waterproof Jacket & Waterproof Pants).

  1. Customers travelling alone must pay a Single Supplement Fee during payment process, as it is not possible for solo travelers to share a room with other solo travelers on this tour.
  2. Reservations for 2 people: will be allocated a twin room (supplement fee does not need to be paid unless you want to be in 2 single rooms).
  3. Reservations for 3 people: 1 triple room will be automatically allocated (supplement fee does not need to be paid unless you want another private room).
  4. Reservations for 4 or more people: 2x Double Rooms will be allocated (supplement fee does not need to be paid unless you want another private room).

  • Order or availability of attractions may change due to road or weather conditions, and we may have to adjust timings to the short daylight of winter days.
  • The limit is one suitcase of 24 inches per person, but you can store your extra luggage in our office for 3000 ISK per piece. It can be added as an additional fee at the time of booking and is non-refundable upon payment in all cases.
  • All luggage exceeding the standard limit must be stored at our office. If there is available space in the vehicle's trunk, we may bring them along (but the extra luggage fee is still required); otherwise, it will remain secured at the office.
  • The Northern Lights are a natural random phenomenon and cannot be guaranteed by the operator. The hotels are in prime locations to maximize the chances of seeing them. Remember that the best time to see them is from September to April, depending on the weather conditions.
  • Ice caves are a dynamic, ever-changing natural phenomenon only accessible during wintertime when temperatures drop below zero. Each year, new unique caves are formed in different glacier areas. We visit a naturally formed ice cave during this tour. The photos on our website and social media are from this winter season, but the ice cave we visit might have changed its appearance due to the dynamic nature of these formations.
  • We strive to provide you with the best possible experience on our tours, and we hope you find this information helpful as you plan your trip with us.

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