Iceland’s breathtaking landscapes unfold with impressive waterfalls, black sand beaches, and steaming geothermal pools, creating the perfect setting for an unforgettable adventure on this unique itinerary. While circumnavigating the whole island on the “Ring Road”, soak in the mineral-rich waters of Mývatn Nature Baths, watch the sun glisten off the icebergs at Diamond Beach, and spot whales swimming in the wild. Every moment offers a chance to explore, discover, and take in Iceland’s natural beauty.
DAYS 1-2: WELCOME TO ICELAND!
After an overnight flight, begin your Icelandic adventure in Reykjavík, the charming capital, home to over 140,000 proud Viking descendants. Explore its colorful streets on a guided walking tour before experiencing the Icelandic Lava Show—the only place in the world to witness real molten lava up close. Tonight, we’ll gather for a Welcome Dinner. D
DAY 3: FRIÐHEIMAR/THE GOLDEN CIRCLE
Start the day at Þingvellir National Park, a site with immense historical and geological significance. At Friðheimar, discover a unique geothermal greenhouse where tomatoes thrive year-round, and learn about Iceland’s innovative farming techniques. Visit the stables to meet Icelandic horses, known for their unique gaits and gentle nature demonstrated live in a horse show. Continue to the Geysir Geothermal Area, a highlight of the Golden Circle and Gullfoss Waterfall, before enjoying dinner together. B, D
DAY 4: WATERFALLS/SKÓGAR FOLK MUSEUM/BLACK SAND BEACH
Marvel at two breathtaking waterfalls—Seljalandsfoss, where a path leads behind the cascading water, and Skógafoss, one of Iceland’s largest, plunging 60 meters into a misty pool below. Explore Skógar Folk Museum, showcasing Iceland’s cultural heritage with artifacts, historical exhibits, and folklore displays. End the day at Reynisfjara, a striking black sand beach with dramatic basalt columns and roaring waves. B, D
DAY 5: JÖKULSÁRLÓN GLACIER LAGOON/BOAT TOUR/DIAMOND BEACH
Journey to Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon, where icebergs break off from Breiðamerkurjökull Glacier and drift toward the sea. Experience an unforgettable Amphibian Boat Tour, gliding past shimmering icebergs. Then, visit Diamond Beach, where translucent ice formations contrast beautifully against the black volcanic sand. Continue to Egilsstadir for dinner. B, D
DAY 6: DETTIFOSS/KRAFLA/NÁMASKARÐ
Stand in awe at Dettifoss, Europe’s most powerful waterfall, where torrents of water crash over a 45-meter drop. Explore the volcanic landscapes of Krafla, home to the vivid Víti crater, before visiting Námaskarð, a geothermal area of bubbling mud pools and steaming fumaroles. Finally, transfer to Akureyri, the “Capital of the North,” Iceland’s second largest city. B, D
DAY 7: WATERFALLS/LAVA FORMATIONS/GEOTHERMAL BATH
Visit Goðafoss, the “Waterfall of the Gods,” spanning 30 meters across a dramatic cliff. Discover Dimmuborgir, or “The Dark Castles,” a surreal lava field formed by an ancient eruption. In Skútustaðir, view the crater formations of Hverfjall before unwinding at Mývatn Nature Baths. Enjoy a soak in its warm, mineral-rich waters while admiring Iceland’s volcanic beauty. B, L
DAY 8: WHALE WATCHING/AKUREYRI
Embark on a whale-watching excursion in Hauganes. Don’t forget your camera for the incomparable views of Eyjafjordur, Iceland’s oldest whale-watching hub, where sightings of humpback and minke whales are common. Enjoy hot chocolate and cinnamon buns on board the boat, before continuing southeast through green pastures, stunning fjord landscapes to the quaint village of Laugarbakki. B, D
DAY 9: CRATER/HOT SPRINGS/HORSE FARM
Start the day by visiting Grábrók Crater, formed over 3,400 years ago, for panoramic lava field views. Continue to Deildartunguhver, one of Europe’s most powerful hot springs, then admire the stunning cascades of Hraunfossar and Barnafoss. At Sturlureykir Horse Farm in Reykholt, meet Icelandic horses and sample fresh rye bread baked using geothermal heat. B, D
DAY 10: RETURN HOME
Transfer to Keflavík airport returning home with memories of Iceland’s breathtaking landscapes. B
QUALITY ACCOMMODATIONS:
Night 2: Storm Hotel, Reykjavík
Night 3: Landhotel, Near Hella
Night 4: Hotel Höfn, Höfn
Night 5: Lake Hotel Egilsstaðir, Egilsstaðir
Nights 6-7: Hotel Akureyri, Akureyri
Night 8: Hotel Laugarbakki
Night 9: Storm Hotel, Reykjavík
Dates:
Jul 9-18, 2026
Price Per Person:
Double: $5,999; Single: $7,099
Pre/Post Hotel:
Call for pricing
Depart/Return:
Chicago, IL
Inclusions:
Roundtrip airfare from the U.S.
Professional English speaking Tour Director
Welcome Dinner and meals as indicated (B=breakfast, L=Lunch, D=dinner)
Fees and tips for included attractions and meals
Luggage handling at most hotels
24-hour emergency call service
Arrival Time
Available about 90 days prior to departure.
Departure Time
Available about 90 days prior to departure.
Airport Transportation / Vehicle Parking
Our pre and post hotel offers complimentary shuttle service to and from the airport. Free parking can be offered during the tour with a pre or post night booked. Please let us know ahead of time if you desire this service.
Walking Distance
To fully enjoy your vacation, you should be in good physical health and understand there are times when a good deal of walking is involved in our tours. Those who have difficulty walking may not want to take this trip or should discuss their personal situation with their doctor before deciding. You should be able to walk at a steady pace up to a mile at a time for a daily total of three to four miles per day and be able to manage steps to board/de-board the motorcoach several times a day. In addition, many US and European airports require lengthy walks to get from ticketing counters to your departure gate and moveable walkways are not common throughout European Airports as they are in the United States.
Due to the lack of proper facilities at some of the farms, ranches, and off-the-beaten-path sites we often visit, we are unable to accommodate walkers and wheelchairs.
We are finding that larger European cities are closing their historic districts to motor traffic. This, of course, adds to the amount of walking involved when visiting a city (sometimes on uneven and/or cobblestone walkways). In addition, please know you may be expected to exit the motorcoach at each stop because local law requires mandatory motorcoach driver breaks.
Average Temps
High of 59°F, low of 48°F
Currency
Icelandic Krona
Time Zone
GMT (5 hours ahead of New York)
Hotel Amenities
All rooms feature hair dryers, free Wi-Fi, and a tea/coffee maker.
Additional Information
A total of three mailings are sent to assist you in preparing for your tour, including information sent upon receipt of your reservation.
Dress on tour is casual. Sunscreen, sunglasses, hat, visors, and comfortable walking shoes will add to your enjoyment of this tour.
An outlet converter that adapts to European outlets is needed. You can find these at many stores, including Amazon and Walmart.
A valid US Passport is required for travel to/from the United States.
Travel Protection Available?
Yes, see CountryTravelDiscoveries.com/TravelProtectionPlan.
