Iceland Circle
YEAR-ROUND TOUR: Travel to Iceland and delve into the ancient land of Vikings and volcanoes on this 8 day in depth cultural Icelandic tour. Discover the unique beauty of this mysterious land visiting the major cities and sights, including the capital city of Reykjavík, the world-famous Golden Circle sightseeing route, and Akureyri, 'the Capital of the North.' Marvel at glacier lagoons, the beautiful Lake Mývatn, waterfalls, volcanoes, rural towns and countless other attractions.
For a detailed itinerary and information about visas, money, weather and more download our Trip Notes
Tour overview
Itinerary
Day 1 Reykjavik
Day 1 Reykjavik
Friday. Welcome to Reykjavik! On arrival at Keflavík International Airport, you'll be transferred by Flybus shuttle to our accommodation. The remainder of the day is at leisure.
Day 2 Grabrok Volcano Crater
Day 2 Grabrok Volcano Crater
Reykjavik - Grabrok - Akureyri. This morning we meet our tour guide and depart from the hotel. We travel west, passing the town of Borgarnes and stopping to climb the Grábrók volcano crater. Further north we pay a visit to Glaumbaer, home to some of Iceland's most picturesque turf house farms and folk museums.
We continue along scenic fjord landscapes and over several mountain passes until we reach Akureyri, the capital of North Iceland.
Day 3 Lake Myvatn
Day 3 Lake Myvatn
Akureyri - Lake Myvatn. This morning we explore Akureyri, a charming town of 17,000 inhabitants and enjoy the panoramic view over Eyjafjördur fjord. From April-October optional whale watching tours are available from 09:00-12:00.
In the afternoon we visit spectacular Godafoss, the waterfalls of the Gods and Lake Mývatn, which is known for its geological wonders and active bird life during summer. Next stop is the bizarre lava formations at Kálfaströnd to walk around the many pseudo craters. End an exciting day with a relaxing soak at Mývatn Nature Baths - the waters here contain a unique blend of minerals, silicates and geothermal micro-organisms. The warm soothing waters benefit both skin and spirit alike.
Day 4 Namaskard hot springs
Day 4 Namaskard hot springs
Lake Myvatn - Namaskard - Egilsstadir. In the morning we hike in a lava labyrinth at Dimmuborgir “the dark castles”, hoping to get a glimpse of the trolls who are said to live there. Afterwards we visit the hot spring area of Námaskard with bubbling mud pools and steaming solfataras. Continue through the uninhabited highlands and moonlike surrounding to East Iceland. With some luck we might spot an Arctic fox or see reindeer.
From June to August the tour includes a detour to Dettifoss, Europe's most powerful waterfall in the northern part of Vatnajökull National Park.
Day 5 Vatnajokull NP
Day 5 Vatnajokull NP
Egilsstadir - Skaftafell. Today we admire the dramatic fjord landscape, twisty roads and tiny fishing villages in the East Fjords. En route we visit an interesting stone and mineral collection. This afternoon we see Vatnajökull - Europe’s biggest glacier that is visible all over Southeast Iceland.
We stop at Jokulsarlon, a glacial lagoon filled with floating icebergs, and explore the extraordinary site where you might see seals swimming in arctic waters. From May through September, a boat tour between floating icebergs is included in the program. Just across the street, you can walk on the so-called Diamond Beach, where icebergs wash up along the shore.
Please note: that the itinerary on this specific day can change due to seasonal factors, such as daylight.
Day 6 Icebergs & Waterfalls
Day 6 Icebergs & Waterfalls
Skaftafell - Skogar - Hella. We travel along the southern part of the giant Vatnajökull glacier and spend time exploring the stunning scenery of Europe’s largest national park, which has Iceland’s highest mountains and a beautiful alpine environment.
In the afternoon, a beautiful drive with many natural wonders awaits us as we head across the Eldhraun lava field, cross the sandy desert of the south coast, overlooked by mountainous cliffs, glaciers and waterfalls. Stroll along the black lava beach of Reynisfjara near Vík. In the small village of Skogar, there is Skogafoss waterfall which is 60 meters high and is one of the most impressive waterfalls in the country. Iceland’s past comes alive at one of Iceland’s finest museums, the Skógar folk museum with its turf houses assemblage of traditions of territorial relics on display. Continue to the high but narrow Seljalandsfoss waterfall which plunges over the mountain.
Please note: The itinerary on this specific day can change due to seasonal factors, such as daylight.
Day 7 Horses & Golden Circle
Day 7 Horses & Golden Circle
Skatafell - Golden Circle - Reykjavik. Today we explore Iceland's famed Golden Circle. We begin the day at Fridheimar learning about the special qualities and history of the Icelandic horse and visit a geothermal greenhouse. Later on we visit the Geysir geothermal fields to see a variety of hot springs, bubbling pools and the mighty Strokkur, "the Churn", which erupts at 5-10 minute intervals. We continue to Gullfoss, “the golden falls“, which is a double waterfall that tumbles 34 meters into the Hvítá River. Continue inland to Thingvellir National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site. As we return to Reykjavík, we take you for a short city tour of the highlights of the world's northern-most capital.
Day 8 Reykjavik
Day 8 Reykjavik
Today our Icelandic experience comes to an end with included FlyBus transfer to Keflavik Airport.
Tour Highlights
Included
Not Included
Prices & Dates
Hotels
The eco-friendly Berjaya Reykjavik Natura Hotel offers a tranquil haven in one of the greenest areas in Reykjavik. Modern, soundproofed rooms equipped with a fridge, desk, and satellite TV ensure comfort, while the Satt Restaurant beckons with a delectable breakfast buffet and Icelandic daily specials. The stylish Satt Bar provides a relaxing ambiance for socializing. Embracing culture, the hotel boasts the Icelandic Modern Art Exhibition, alongside practical amenities like a tourist desk and spa facilities. Complimentary WiFi and gym access complete this inviting retreat, promoting relaxation and connectivity in a sustainable setting. The vibrant city centre is within easy reach; just a few minutes away by car or bus or a 20-minute walk.
Formally the Icelandair Hotel Akureyri, the Berjaya Akureyri Hotel is a tastefully decorated hotel with magnificent views of the city. Guest rooms are tastefully decorated with bright and airy rooms and excellent facilities. A delicious array of meals are served at the onsite restaurant - choose form local and international cuisine including Artic Char, Lamb Shank or Wild Goose from Eyjafjordur! The hotel is located just a short drive from the Hlidarfjall ski resort.
Myvatn Berjaya Iceland Hotel offers a serene retreat in the heart of Iceland's stunning natural beauty. Located near the picturesque Lake Myvatn, the hotel provides comfortable accommodations with modern amenities, ensuring a relaxing stay. Embrace breath-taking views of the surrounding volcanic landscapes, geothermal springs, and lush greenery. Enjoy dinner and drinks in the modern restaurant, with emphasis on it's fresh ingredients. With its blend of comfort, convenience, and natural splendor, Myvatn Berjaya Iceland Hotel is the perfect base for exploring the wonders of northern Iceland.
Opened in 2000, the Icelandair Herad has recently undergone extensive renovations. Guest rooms are beautifully designed with comfy beds and excellent amenities. The hotel boasts an excellent restaurant serving a great selection of local dishes including reindeer steak! The onsite bar is also a great place to sit and relax in and sip on a delicious Icelandic beer! Well located in the heart of East Iceland's growing capital, Egilsstadir.
One of Fosshotel's newest additions, the Fosshotel Glacier Lagoon has an envious position between Skaftafell and Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon.The hotel offers comfortable rooms with contemporary decor and stunning views of the surrounding glaciers and mountains. They are equipped with modern amenities and beautiful en suite facilities. Dine at the on-site restaurant, which offers local cuisine, and relax in the bar after a day of exploration.
Just off Iceland's ring road, Hotel Hella offers comfortable accommodation in Hella village. Guest rooms are classically decorated and well furnished. The hotel offers free Wi-FI and a great restaurant across the street. There is also a communal TV lounge to relax in with fellow travellers. Hotel Hella is the perfect place to base yourself when exploring this beautiful part of southern Iceland.
Tour Reviews
Excellent tour. Guide very personable and knowledgeable
Excellent tour of Iceland .We would highly recommend On The Go Tours as we had recommended to us by family members who had previously done this trip . Everything was to our satisfaction & thoroughly enjoyed everything about the trip . Even though the weather wasn’t always kind to us we still managed to have a wonderful time .
I liked the itinerary very much. The guide also served as the driver, so it was a bit different from other tours I have taken. The group was nice, but they were not all "On the Go" clients so it did not have the feel of a full on "On the Go" tour. But I understand this is the way it is in Iceland, usually.
Our tour guide was absolutely fantastic. So much knowledge about the history of the country,telling us the old fable’s,packing in as much as she could for our trip. Eyrun was very friendly and you could see she wanted us to enjoy this trip.Eyrun even Made sure we saw the northern lights,she is also a very good driver! There is not one bad word I can find about this trip,it’s probably the best trip my friend and I have had to date. Eyrun is an asset make sure she knows that.
Our tour guide was absolutely fantastic. So much knowledge about the history of the country,telling us the old fable’s,packing in as much as she could for our trip. Eyrun was very friendly and you could see she wanted us to enjoy this trip.Eyrun even Made sure we saw the northern lights,she is also a very good driver! There is not one bad word I can find about this trip,it’s probably the best trip my friend and I have had to date. Eyrun is an asset make sure she knows that.
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