7-Day Complete Iceland: South Coast, Golden Circle, Akureyri & Snaefellsnes

Exploring the stunning landscapes of Iceland can be a truly captivating experience for any traveler. This 7-day tour offers a comprehensive journey through the country’s most iconic regions, from the breathtaking South Coast to the geothermal marvels of the Golden Circle. Visitors will enjoy the natural wonders, including the Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon, the picturesque Akureyri, and the diverse Snæfellsnes Peninsula. With accommodations, transportation, and Wi-Fi provided, travelers can focus on customizing their adventure to match their interests, whether it’s discovering local cuisine or embarking on outdoor activities. What lies in store for those who embark on this Icelandic exploration?

Key Points

• A 7-day comprehensive tour of Iceland’s top destinations, including the South Coast, Golden Circle, Akureyri, and Snaefellsnes Peninsula.
• Guided small-group experience with comfortable accommodations, transportation, and amenities like free Wi-Fi on the bus.
• Highlights include Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon, Gullfoss waterfall, Dimmuborgir lava formations, and the dramatic landscapes of the Snaefellsnes Peninsula.
• Opportunities to explore local cuisine and customize the experience, with 6 nights’ accommodation and breakfast included.
• Itinerary covers natural wonders, UNESCO sites, and cultural attractions, providing an in-depth exploration of Iceland’s diverse landscapes.

Tour Overview

This 7-day complete Iceland tour from Reykjavik covers the country’s South Coast, Golden Circle, Akureyri, and Snaefellsnes Peninsula, providing an in-depth experience compared to shorter tours without the need to book accommodation or arrange transport.

Highlighting Iceland’s natural wonders, the tour takes travelers to iconic destinations like Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon and Diamond Beach, as well as lesser-known gems like Lake Myvatn, Dettifoss, and Godafoss Waterfalls.

With a small group size and included pickup and drop-off service, this tour offers a comprehensive yet leisurely exploration of Iceland’s diverse landscapes and geological marvels.

The tour’s inclusions, such as 6 nights’ accommodation with breakfast and free on-board Wi-Fi, ensure a comfortable and seamless journey.

Highlights of the Tour

The tour takes travelers to Iceland’s iconic destinations, including the breathtaking Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon and the nearby Diamond Beach, where visitors can witness the stunning contrast between the azure glacial lagoon and the jet-black sand.

Throughout the journey, the group will explore the wonders of the Golden Circle, one of Iceland’s most famous sightseeing routes, taking in the explosive Geysir hot spring, the majestic Gullfoss waterfall, and the historic Thingvellir National Park.

Further north, the tour delves into the geological marvels of the Myvatn region, visiting:

• The peculiar lava formations of Dimmuborgir
• The powerful Dettifoss waterfall
• The serene Lake Myvatn
• The impressive Godafoss ‘Waterfall of the Gods’
• The tranquil Snaefellsnes Peninsula

Accommodation and Amenities

The tour includes 6 nights’ accommodation with breakfast, providing participants with a comfortable and convenient base throughout their Icelandic adventure.

The accommodations are carefully selected to offer quality and cleanliness, ensuring a restful stay after a day of sightseeing.

Free Wi-Fi is available on the tour bus, allowing travelers to stay connected and share their experiences in real-time.

While meals, aside from breakfast, and admission to optional activities aren’t included, the tour provides ample opportunities for participants to explore local cuisine and customize their experience.

Itinerary: South Coast

After ensuring a comfortable accommodation base, the tour embarks on an exploration of Iceland’s renowned South Coast. Participants begin their journey by visiting the iconic Seljalandsfoss and Skogafoss waterfalls, marveling at the cascading waters that tumble over the dramatic cliffs.

The tour then ventures to the black sand beaches of Reynisfjara, where the powerful waves crash against the towering basalt columns.

Highlights along the South Coast include:

• Witnessing the ethereal beauty of the Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon, where floating icebergs glisten in shades of blue and white.
• Strolling along the nearby Diamond Beach, where the ice fragments sparkle like diamonds in the sunlight.

Exploring the stunning Fjaðrárgljúfur canyon, a breathtaking geological formation carved by glacial rivers.

Visiting the charming fishing village of Vík, known for its traditional Icelandic architecture and sweeping ocean vistas.

Trekking through the otherworldly landscapes of the Skaftafell Nature Reserve, part of the larger Vatnajökull National Park.

Itinerary: Golden Circle

Departing from the South Coast, the tour then explores Iceland’s renowned Golden Circle, a popular route that showcases some of the country’s most iconic natural wonders. The first stop is the dramatic Gullfoss waterfall, where the Hvítá river plummets 32 meters into a rugged canyon. Next, the group visits the Geysir geothermal area, home to the Great Geysir and numerous other hot springs and fumaroles. The final highlight is Þingvellir National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site that marks the meeting point of the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates, resulting in a unique and captivating landscape.

Site	Description
Gullfoss	Majestic 32-meter waterfall
Geysir	Famous hot spring and geothermal area
Þingvellir	Tectonic rift valley, UNESCO site

Itinerary: Akureyri and Lake Myvatn

From the Golden Circle, the tour continues north to the picturesque town of Akureyri, Iceland’s second-largest city. Nestled at the base of the Eyjafjörður fjord, Akureyri boasts a charming old town, beautiful botanical gardens, and a lively cultural scene.

Leaving Akureyri, the journey then takes travelers to the otherworldly landscapes of Lake Mývatn, a region renowned for its volcanic features, geothermal activity, and diverse birdlife.

Highlights of the Mývatn area include:

• Exploring the bizarre lava formations at Dimmuborgir
• Witnessing the powerful cascades of Goðafoss Waterfall
• Relaxing in the soothing waters of the Mývatn Nature Baths
• Hiking to the rim of the Viti explosion crater
• Spotting unique birdlife around the serene lake.

Itinerary: Snaefellsnes Peninsula

The tour then heads west to the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, a region often dubbed ‘Iceland in Miniature’ for its diverse landscapes and natural wonders.

Travelers explore the volcanic Snæfelljökull glacier, hike along the dramatic coastal cliffs, and visit the charming fishing villages that dot the peninsula.

Key highlights include the iconic Kirkjufell mountain, the black sand beaches of Djúpalónssandur, and the Lóndrangar basalt cliffs.

Visitors can marvel at the stunning natural beauty of this picturesque region, from the rugged coastline to the snow-capped peaks of the glacier.

The Snæfellsnes Peninsula offers a comprehensive glimpse into the diverse geological features that make Iceland such a unique and captivating destination.

Additional Information and Recommendations

When booking this complete Iceland itinerary, travelers should consider the recommended attire and optional activities to enhance their experience. Warm, waterproof clothing and sturdy hiking boots are essential, as the tour explores diverse landscapes and outdoor environments. While breakfast is included, travelers will need to budget for their own food and drinks throughout the tour.

Plus, admission to the Myvatn Nature Baths and the lava caving experience at Vatnshellir Cave can be added as optional activities upon booking.

This tour is suitable for travelers aged 8 and above. The small group size, with a maximum of 18 participants, ensures a more personalized and immersive experience.

Some key considerations for travelers include:

• Dress in layers to adapt to changing weather conditions
• Bring a camera to capture the breathtaking scenery
• Pack snacks and water to stay energized during the long days
• Be prepared for moderate hiking on uneven terrain
• Take advantage of the free Wi-Fi on board to stay connected.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Maximum Group Size for This Tour?

The maximum group size for this tour is 18 travelers. This is a small group experience, allowing for a more intimate and personalized tour compared to larger group tours.

Are There Any Age Restrictions for Solo Travelers?

The tour has a minimum age requirement of 8 years old. There are no specific age restrictions for solo travelers, though the tour may not be suitable for very young children traveling alone. Travelers of all ages are welcome as part of a group.

Can I Book Additional Activities During the Tour?

Yes, travelers can add optional activities like the Myvatn Nature Baths and Lava caving experience at Vatnshellir Cave to their tour after booking. Additional admission fees apply for these optional experiences.

Can I Request a Specific Type of Accommodation?

Yes, travelers can request specific accommodation types, such as single rooms or double rooms, when booking the tour. The tour operator will do their best to accommodate these requests, subject to availability.

Is It Possible to Extend the Tour Duration?

Yes, it’s generally possible to extend the tour duration. Travelers can typically add extra nights or customize the itinerary to spend more time exploring Iceland’s attractions. However, the specific options may depend on availability and additional costs.

Recap

This comprehensive 7-day tour of Iceland offers an immersive experience, showcasing the country’s stunning natural wonders.

Travelers will explore the iconic South Coast, the Golden Circle’s geothermal marvels, the picturesque Akureyri region, and the diverse landscapes of the Snaefellsnes Peninsula.

Accommodation, transportation, and Wi-Fi are provided, allowing visitors to focus on the journey and customize their experience to suit their interests, from local cuisine to outdoor activities.