Welcome to Iceland! Arrive in Reykjavík and settle into the heart of Iceland’s vibrant capital. After checking into Hotel Frón, take some time to explore the colorful streets, browse the local shops, and soak in the relaxed atmosphere of this charming city. Enjoy a leisurely evening and a memorable first taste of Iceland before our adventure begins tomorrow.

Overnight - Hotel Fron

Today we venture beyond Reykjavík to explore Iceland’s famous Golden Circle, a spectacular route featuring some of the country’s most iconic natural wonders. We’ll visit Þingvellir National Park, where Iceland’s history and geology come together, and see the dramatic landscape created by the meeting of two tectonic plates. From there, we’ll continue to the Geysir geothermal area, home to bubbling mud pots and Strokkur, the famous geyser that erupts regularly. Our final stop is the magnificent Gullfoss waterfall, where the Hvítá River plunges dramatically into a rugged canyon.

After a full day of exploring Iceland’s extraordinary landscapes, we’ll return to Reykjavík for a second night at Hotel Frón, with the evening free to enjoy the city.

Overnight - Hotel Fron

We’ll depart Reykjavík early this morning and travel south to catch the ferry to Heimaey, the largest island in Iceland’s Westman Islands archipelago. The ferry ride itself is a beautiful introduction to this remarkable part of Iceland, with dramatic volcanic islands rising from the North Atlantic.

Heimaey is unlike anywhere else in Iceland. The island was dramatically reshaped by a volcanic eruption in 1973, when Eldfell volcano suddenly erupted and buried part of the town in lava and ash. Today, you can still see the contrast between the older landscape and the newer lava fields created by the eruption.

We’ll explore the island’s rugged coastline, towering sea cliffs, and volcanic landscape, which is also home to one of Iceland’s largest puffin colonies during the summer months. Depending on conditions, we’ll have opportunities to see these charming seabirds along the cliffs and take in spectacular views across the ocean.

After exploring Heimaey, we’ll return by ferry to the mainland and continue to Hotel Selja, where we’ll spend the night. It’s a wonderful first taste of Iceland’s wild southern coast—and a day that combines volcanic history, wildlife, dramatic scenery, and adventure.

Overnight - Hotel Selja

Today we will travel along Iceland’s scenic South Coast to the picturesque village of Skógar. We’ll visit the picturesque village of Skógar, home to the stunning Skógafoss waterfall—one of Iceland’s most iconic natural wonders. We’ll explore the area’s dramatic landscapes and have time to visit the Skógar Museum, which offers a glimpse into traditional Icelandic life. It’s a perfect stop to soak in the South Coast's beauty and culture. Here, you’ll settle in at the cozy Hotel Katla, located just steps from the legendary waterfall. The soothing sound of cascading water and the surrounding natural beauty make this a magical spot to rest and recharge for the adventures ahead.

Overnight - Hotel Katla

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We will visit the magnificent Skógafoss Waterfall. For those who prefer not to hike, Hilary will take you to the nearby Skógar Folk Museum, which offers a fascinating look at traditional Icelandic life and culture.

Continue to Vík and visit the famous Black Sand Beach, with its dramatic coastline and basalt formations.

Start your day with a peaceful waterfall walk in Skógar, where the thundering beauty of Skógafoss sets the tone for a day of natural wonder. From there, we journey to the charming village of Vík, nestled between mountains and sea. The highlight of the afternoon is a visit to the awe-inspiring Reynisfjara Beach, where black sands stretch beneath towering basalt columns and powerful Atlantic waves crash against sea stacks just offshore. This otherworldly landscape is one of Iceland’s most iconic sights. After a day filled with dramatic scenery, unwind for the night at the welcoming Foss Hotel Glacier Lagoon.

Overnight: Foss Hotel Glacier Lagoon

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Drive to Skaftafell National Park and spend the afternoon hiking and exploring this spectacular area of glaciers, mountains, and rugged natural landscapes.

Today’s journey takes us along Iceland’s breathtaking southern coast to the spectacular Skaftafell region. Here, nature puts on a show at Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon, where luminous blue icebergs drift serenely in glacial waters. Just a short walk away, you'll discover the magical Diamond Beach—an unforgettable stretch of black sand scattered with sparkling ice fragments that glisten like jewels in the sunlight. After a day filled with dramatic beauty and awe-inspiring sights, we’ll drive to Egilsstadir and spend two nights at a cozy retreat nestled along the shores of Lake Lagarfljót.

Overnight: Hotel 1001 Nott, two nights

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Visit the breathtaking Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon, where floating icebergs drift through the glacial waters.

Continue to nearby Diamond Beach, where pieces of glacial ice wash ashore on the black volcanic sand.

In the afternoon, continue east to Egilsstaðir.

We’ll spend two nights in the scenic town of Egilsstaðir, our home base for exploring East Iceland. On our full day here, you’ll have the option to enjoy a guided morning hike—choose between a shorter 2-mile route or a more adventurous 7-mile trek, both offering stunning views of the surrounding landscapes. In the afternoon, we’ll unwind at the Vök Baths, a remarkable thermal spa built on Lake Urriðavatn. Relax in the geothermal floating pools, sip herbal tea brewed from lake water, and take in the tranquil beauty of this unique lakeside retreat.

Overnight: Hotel 1001 Nott

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Begin the morning with the Waterfall Circle hike, an approximately 8 km walk on an easy walking surface.

After the hike, enjoy time to relax at the Vök Baths, a unique geothermal spa floating on Lake Urriðavatn.

Gather for dinner and enjoy a final evening in East Iceland.

Our day in Iceland begins with a tranquil morning hike to one of the East’s picturesque waterfalls—an ideal way to reflect on the natural wonders we’ve explored throughout the week.

Following our time in Egilsstaðir, we’ll board a short flight back to Reykjavík and spend the night in the heart of the city at Hotel Fron, located near the waterfront and within walking distance of shops, restaurants, and cultural sites—perfect for a final evening stroll or dinner in the capital.

Overnight: Hotel Fron

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Walk to Stuðlagil Canyon, famous for its dramatic basalt columns and striking glacial river.

After exploring the canyon, travel to the airport for your 4:00 PM flight back to Reykjavík.

Upon arrival, transfer to Reykjavík and enjoy a final evening in the city.

As our unforgettable journey through Iceland comes to a close, guests should schedule departing flights from Keflavík International Airport. After a week of exploring dramatic coastlines, puffin-covered cliffs, black sand beaches, glaciers, waterfalls, and volcanic landscapes, we part ways with hearts full and cameras brimming. With memories made and new friendships formed, you’ll leave Iceland with a deeper connection to its wild beauty—and perhaps already dreaming of your return.

Good to Know

Our Iceland adventure is designed to be immersive, comfortable, and thoughtfully paced—but as with any travel experience in nature, flexibility is key. Weather, road conditions, and other unforeseen events may require us to adjust our plans on the go. Rest assured, we’ll always prioritize safety and comfort, and our expert guides will communicate clearly and provide well-considered alternatives if changes arise. We’re here to take care of the logistics so you can relax and enjoy the journey.

This itinerary includes an internal flight from Egilsstaðir to Reykjavík. To book this flight on your behalf, we will ask all travelers to mail us a copy of their passport well in advance of departure. With an open mind and a sense of adventure, you’ll get the very best out of this extraordinary week in Iceland.