West & South Iceland with Snæfellsnes

7 days / 6 nights
Glanni waterfall in the Borgarfjörður region of Iceland
A man inside an ice cave on the Crystal Ice Cave Tour
Gatklettur rock arch at Arnarstapi
Hveragerði hiking trail
Skógafoss in South Iceland
Vík í Mýrdal village in South Iceland
Skógafoss in South Iceland
Vík í Mýrdal village in South Iceland
Glanni waterfall in the Borgarfjörður region of Iceland
A man inside an ice cave on the Crystal Ice Cave Tour
Gatklettur rock arch at Arnarstapi

Witness awe-inspiring sights in West and South Iceland, where volcanoes, glaciers, and geysers rule the landscape. You’ll journey by minibus with a knowledgeable driver-guide, exploring wintry sights with like-minded travelers.

Discover the vibrant capital, Reykjavík, before heading out into the West and South. Journey around the Snæfellsnes peninsula, exploring historic towns surrounded by snow-dusted mountains.

Halfway through your adventure, enjoy an evening back in Reykjavík before heading to South Iceland. This region simmers with geothermal activity, so expect geysers, volcanic formations and hot springs.

Plus, join excursions into an ancient lava tunnel and a shimmering blue ice cave.

For glacier activities, hiking boots are mandatory.

This tour is operated by a partner of Iceland Tours

Travel styleGuided Small group
(up to 19 people)
Trip length7 days / 6 nights
VibeAdventure
SeasonWinter
(Nov-Mar)
TransportMini-bus
Starts fromReykjavík
Minimum age8 years
Tour codeGT15

On this tour you will...

  • Soak up the modern culture of downtown Reykjavík

  • Discover rugged mountains and coastal scenery on the Snæfellsnes peninsula

  • Tick off the iconic Golden Circle route of natural wonders

  • Wander along black sand beaches like Reynisfjara

  • Admire sparkling icebergs at the Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon

  • Embark on excursions into a lava tunnel and a natural blue ice cave

Top attractions

The Tjörnin pond in Reykjavík in summer

Downtown Reykjavík

Water coming out of colorful rocks at Deildartunguhver hot spring

Deildartunguhver

The Hraunfossar waterfall in winter covered in ice

Hraunfossar and Barnafoss

Town of Borgarnes from above

Borgarnes

Gatklettur rock arch at Arnarstapi

Arnarstapi

The black sand of the Djúpalónssandur beach

Djúpalónssandur

A man standing below Kirkjufellsfoss

Kirkjufell

Þingvellir National Park, Iceland, in autumn colors

Þingvellir National Park

The Strokkur geyser erupting in winter against a sunset

Geysir and Strokkur

The Gullfoss waterfall in summertime

Gullfoss

The Seljalandsfoss waterfall covered in icicles

Seljalandsfoss

A rainbow over the Skógafoss waterfall on a sunny day

Skógafoss

Vik Church with Reynisdrangar sea stacks in the distance

Vík í Mýrdal

Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon at sunrise with a pink sky

Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon

Why book a guided group trip with Iceland Tours?

  • Pick from wide range of departure dates

  • Expert local guidance in English

  • Small and big group options available

  • 24/7 emergency helpline in Iceland

  • Secure your booking with just a 5% deposit

  • Handpicked local accommodation options

Your 7-day guided group itinerary

Your 7-day guided group itinerary
Staying inReykjavík
Driving distance50 km (31 mi)

Shared transfer from Keflavík International Airport to Reykjavík (included).

Touch down in Iceland ready for your adventure!  A shared bus transfer will be waiting to pick you up and take you to your accommodation in Reykjavík.

Or, you could relax after your flight by first heading to the iconic Blue Lagoon. Soak in steamy, mineral-rich waters and admire your volcanic surroundings.

Later, after settling into your accommodation in the capital, head out to explore the colorful city. Stroll down to the harbor to check out the iconic Sun Voyager sculpture.

Close by is the Harpa Concert Hall, covered in shimmering glass panels.

Other must-see attractions in downtown Reykjavík include Hallgrímskirkja church, and the city’s main shopping street, Laugavegur.

Highlights

The Tjörnin pond in Reykjavík in summer

Downtown Reykjavík

Extra activities

Woman relaxing in the Blue LagoonUpgrade

Upgrade - Arrival via Blue Lagoon

Riders on FlyOver Iceland above a virtual waterfallExtra

FlyOver Iceland

The Sky Lagoon at sunsetExtra

Sky Lagoon Saman Pass with Transfer

Staying inBorgarnes area
Driving distance200 km (124 mi)

Please be ready for pickup from your hotel by 8:30 a.m.

This morning, you’ll meet your guide and head out of Reykjavík toward the west coast of Iceland. Just as you leave the capital, you’ll pass by towering Mount Esja.

Your destination is the Borgarfjörður region, where many Icelandic sagas are believed to have taken place. The first stop is Bifröst, where you can admire the thundering Glanni waterfall and 3 vast volcanic craters.

A little further along, experience Iceland’s incredible geothermal power at Deildartunguhver. This hot spring pumps over 180 liters of boiling water per second.

You’ll carry on to the historic village of Reykholt, where one of Iceland’s greatest writers once lived. Then it’s time to visit Hraunfossar and Barnafoss, 2 sapphire-blue waterfalls.

Next up is Húsafell, a quaint farm and church site where you can learn about Viking history.

You’ll end your day with a guided expedition into Iceland’s largest lava tunnel, Víðgemlir Cave, full of dramatic stalactites, stalagmites, and ice formations.

Staying inReykjavík
Driving distance400 km (249 mi)

Nicknamed ‘Iceland in Miniature’, the Snæfellnes peninsula is where you can witness glaciers, volcanoes, rugged coastlines, and more. You’ll spend today immersed in these epic sights.

As you begin your journey across the peninsula, you’ll first see Snæfellsjökull, a 1500-metre (4921-foot) volcano topped by a glacier.

Soon, you’ll stop at Ytri-Tunga, a golden sand beach known for its seal colonies. During the summer, you can watch these cute animals relax and dry off in the sun.

Next, explore the Búðakirkja black church, before going to Arnarstapi fishing village. Walk along the sea cliffs and look out for basalt columns and stone arches. The most famous formation here is Gatklettur.

A little further along are the towering Lóndrangar cliffs, where cute puffins and other seabirds nest in the summer. Take a walk along Djúpalónssandur, a black sand beach with lava fields sprawled nearby.

Staying inHveragerði
Driving distance210 km (130 mi)

Please be ready for pick-up from your hotel by 8:30 am.

This morning, embark on an adventure around Iceland’s best-known road trip route, the Golden Circle. You can expect incredible sights out of your window as your driver-guide takes you to your first stop, Þingvellir National Park.

This UNESCO World Heritage Site is central to Icelandic history and where the Mid-Atlantic Ridge lies. Here, you can walk between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates, which are slowly moving apart.

Close by, be amazed by the Stokkur geyser, which spouts hot water every few minutes. From here, you’ll head to the legendary Gullfoss waterfall.

After completing the Golden Circle, you’ll make a stop at the impressive Kerið crater. The striking red earth contrasts with green moss and the blue water of the caldera lake.

Towards the end of the day, you’ll arrive in the town of Hveragerði. It’s famed for its geothermal energy and features a small geyser, as well as many hot springs. You can enjoy a relaxing dip in the naturally heated waters heading to your accommodation.

Before heading to your accommodation, you might want to visit Hveragerði. This town runs on geothermal energy, which heats up greenhouses and hot springs.

Optional activity (no pre-booking required): Geothermal swimming pool in Hveragerði

Staying inHöfn area
Driving distance367 km (228 mi)

Today is all about the breathtaking beauty of South Iceland. This diverse coastal area is full of dramatic natural sights, as well as quaint fishing towns.

On your journey you’ll stop at 3 awe-inspiring waterfalls, Gljúfrabúi, Seljalandsfoss, and Skógafoss. All 3 falls have a magical aura about them.

For an immersive experience, walk behind the curtain of water at Seljalandsfoss. You’ll be able to admire lush landscapes through the rippling, icy torrent.

The last stop of the day will be Reynisfjara, the most famous black sand beach in Iceland. Watch powerful waves crashing against volcanic rocks and look out for the grand Reynisdrangar sea stacks.

Staying inReykjavík
Driving distance412 km (256 mi)

Another day of spectacular sights awaits you! It’s time to journey further east to Vatnajökull, Iceland’s largest national park.

Your first stop will be Fellsfjara, or ‘Diamond Beach’. It got this nickname thanks to the sparkling chunks of ice all along it that stand out against the black sand.

Close by is the picturesque Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon, where huge icebergs float on calm waters.

Get ready for a rush of adrenaline as you embark on a 3-hour expedition into a natural ice cave deep within a glacier. The sunlight streaming through the ice tinges it blue, giving the cave an otherworldly aura.

As you head back to Reykjavík, you’ll stop at Hofskirkja, a church with a turf roof. Carry on towards charming Vík, a village with incredible sea views. As you travel between these sites, look out for the striking Eldhraun lava field.

Staying inDeparture
Driving distance50 km (31 mi)

Shared airport transfer to Keflavík International Airport for your return flight (included).

Today is the end of your Iceland adventure. If your flight is in the afternoon, spend a relaxing morning exploring more of Reykjavík. You can visit some attractions, shop for souvenirs, or relax in a cozy café.

Then, make your way to Keflavik Airport in time for your departure. You’ll join a shared airport transfer, which will pick you up from your accommodation.

What’s included?

Comfort accommodation every night

Continental breakfast every day

Airport transfer

Local transport with guidance in English

Free on-board wi-fi

Admission to Víðgelmir Lava Cave

Guided ice cave tour

Entry fee to Kerið Volcanic Crater

24/7 emergency helpline when you’re in Iceland

VAT, taxes & service fees

Flights to Iceland

Food & drink, unless otherwise stated

Attraction entrance fees, unless otherwise stated

Personal travel insurance

Swimwear (optional for those wanting to use hot tubs). Towels are provided at the hotel

Don’t take our word for it

See what hundreds of fellow travelers have to say about their trips with Iceland Tours.

Read customer reviews

FAQs about our guided group trips

On this type of tour, you’ll travel around Iceland by bus with the same driver-guide for the length of your trip. Guided group tours are a great way to make like-minded friends, as you’ll spend time with the same travelers for your whole vacation.

You’ll get to stay in accommodation around the country, and some tours include a few evening meals too. After a day’s exploring, you’ll go back to your private room and meet your guide and group the next morning to continue your trip.

All of our guided group tours start and finish in Reykjavík.

There are 2 group sizes available:

  • Small group: Up to 16 people
  • Big group: Up to 36 people

Small groups offer a more intimate travel experience, whereas big groups are more wallet-friendly.

You’ll likely be with people from a whole mix of backgrounds, from different countries and of different ages. Your guide will entertain you with fun facts and jokes as you journey around Iceland. It’s almost guaranteed you’ll be laughing along with your group!

There will most probably be a mix of solo travelers, couples, and small groups of friends and family.

The luggage restrictions on this guided group tour operated by Nicetravel are as follows:

  • 1 small carry-on luggage, bag size: 50 x 30 x 60 cm (19.9 x 11.8 x 23.6 inches)
  • If you have large luggage with you, please get in touch with your Travel consultant at Iceland Tours at the time of booking.

Each day your luggage will be loaded onto the bus. In the evening, you’ll take all your bags with you to your room.

Our guided group tours have fixed start dates and itineraries. While it’s not possible to customize the actual tour, you can tailor your trip with extra days and activities before or afterwards.

For example, you could add a couple more days in Reykjavík at the end of your trip. Fill these with day tours or exciting activities like ice caving and snowmobiling.

On a guided group tour, you’ll learn a lot about Icelandic history, nature, and culture from experienced tour guides. You’ll find their passion for the country infectious and gain a perspective on life in Iceland from these travel experts.

Guided group tours also mean you don’t need to worry about driving yourself on unfamiliar roads. They’re a fantastic way to explore Iceland if you want to meet like-minded travelers too.

That said, guided tours are by no means the only way to experience Iceland. If you’d prefer something more customizable, you could go for a multi-day tour by bus. Or if you want to set your own pace on a road trip, it’s hard to beat a self-drive tour.

Another option is a privately guided tour. This combines the experience of a locally guided tour with the intimacy of traveling in your own private group.

On an Iceland guided tour, you can expect to travel by bus in a small or large party. You can choose your preferred group size when you book.

Iceland small group tours are more intimate, whereas large group tours are more wallet-friendly. The maximum number of people in a small group is 16, and 36 in a large group.

Your driver-guide will lead the entire trip, which includes stays in the Icelandic countryside. Each day you’ll explore a new part of Iceland and enjoy commentary from your guide between stops.

As you’ll be with the same group of people throughout your trip, you’ll have the chance to socialize with fellow travelers and make friends (maybe even for life). There’s nothing like diving into Iceland’s epic nature for a bonding experience!

All of the guided Iceland vacation packages featured here include local transport, accommodation, breakfast, airport transfers, and activities. Some also include dinners in the countryside, so check the specific package for details.

You can customize your guided trip with extra days in Reykjavík at the start or end of your vacation. Use these to pack in day tours or an evening Northern Lights tour. You could even pay a relaxing visit to the Blue Lagoon or Sky Lagoon.

In general, tipping is not as commonplace in Iceland as in some other countries. While tour guides would never expect to be tipped, they would receive them gratefully.

You can start planning your Iceland adventure right on this page. Browse the guided vacation packages above until you find the one for you.

Next, check departure dates on the tour page. Guided group tours have fixed dates and durations, although you can extend your trip with extra days in Reykjavík if you like. This would be your chance to add activities, like exploring an ice cave or bathing in hot springs.

After that, simply follow the checkout instructions to complete your booking. You’ll receive a confirmation email straight away, followed by your travel documents closer to your departure date.

You can check dates on the individual tour pages. Guided tours are available in a small or large group, with separate departure dates for each.

There are weekly or fortnightly departures throughout the popular summer and winter seasons. Make sure you book in advance as spaces can sell out quick.

Because guided group tours have fixed departure dates, it’s a good idea to book your vacation package before your flights. Once you’ve received the confirmation from Iceland Tours, you’re clear to book with your preferred airline.

That said, you might want to do a rough check for flights before you book your package to get a feel for what’s available.

Iceland is well connected to Europe and North America with daily direct flights to lots of major cities.

When visiting Iceland, it pays to pack smart and be prepared. The weather is changeable and conditions are likely to be different to what you’re used to at home.

Here’s an Iceland packing list that’s good for all seasons:

  • Warm, waterproof coat
  • Toasty inner layers
  • Hat, scarf, and gloves
  • Sturdy hiking boots
  • Sunglasses
  • Moisturizer and lip balm

There’s plenty to enjoy on a guided tour of Iceland. The great thing about them is that you can access locations you never would have known about. And you can travel to seemingly out-of-reach regions, like the Icelandic highlands.

Here’s just some of what you could get up to on an Iceland group tour:

Need more inspiration? Check out this Iceland Travel Guide.

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