Festive 5-Day Christmas & Northern Lights Tour with South Coast & Golden Circle from Reykjavik

On day two of this winter tour in Iceland, you'll begin your three-day guided bus tour. The guide leading your excursion will be your primary source of information and assistance.

You'll start the day with a short but delightful tour of Reykjavik, the charming capital city. As you wander through the city's quaint streets, your knowledgeable guide will regale you with captivating tales of Icelandic history and culture.

You can admire the unique architecture, visit iconic landmarks like the Hallgrimskirkja church, and experience the vibrant atmosphere that characterizes this Nordic gem.

After exploring Reykjavik, the journey continues to the captivating Reykjanes Peninsula, a geothermal wonderland filled with breathtaking volcanic landscapes.

The most famous attraction on the peninsula is the Blue Lagoon, a geothermal spa with iconic milky-blue waters. This is the perfect place to relax and experience a soothing geothermal bath. Your tour package includes an entrance to the Blue Lagoon with towel use.

As evening approaches this special Christmas Eve, your group will head to the small towns of Hvolsvollur and Hella in South Iceland. During the Yuletide season, these villages come alive with an enchanting display of Christmas lights and festive traditions unique to Iceland.

Your guide will enlighten you about the country's intriguing customs and rituals associated with this joyous time of year.

As darkness descends, you'll be treated to a delicious four-course dinner at a popular restaurant on Hella's riverbanks. The restaurant will serve delicious Icelandic dishes from fresh local ingredients as you soak in the festive environment.

After dinner, the adventure takes an even more magical turn. Your guide will lead you to the garden of your accommodation, where you'll participate in a captivating program about the northern lights.

With a bit of luck and favorable weather conditions, you may be graced with an awe-inspiring aurora borealis display as the guide regales you with interesting trivia and folklore.

On this day, the adventure takes you further south to witness the awe-inspiring features of the region. The South Coast is home to diverse natural features like glaciers, waterfalls, coastal villages, and long stretches of beaches.

Start your day with a delicious and hearty breakfast before setting off to the breathtaking Seljalandsfoss waterfall. This majestic 200-foot (60-meter) tall wonder allows you to experience nature's power up close by walking behind its cascading water curtain.

Next is the Skogar Folk Museum, where you'll learn more about the traditional Icelandic way of life and gain insight into their rich cultural heritage. The museum features well-preserved turf houses, once typical dwellings of Icelandic farmers.

Near the museum is the majestic Skogafoss waterfall, boasting the same height as the Seljalandsfoss waterfall. During winter, the waterfall's cliffs and surroundings are covered with ice and snow.

For the adventurous souls, an optional glacier hike at Solheimajokull outlet glacier awaits. Led by experienced guides, this exhilarating journey, with an additional fee, will take you through icy landscapes, crevasses, and stunning ice formations.

Make sure to signify your interest in joining the activity beforehand.

If you prefer not to partake in the glacier hike, the bus will take you directly to the Reynisfjara beach. It's the most famous black sand beach in Iceland because of its long stretch of volcanic sands, striking basalt columns, unique sea stacks, and powerful waves of the Atlantic Ocean.

As the day ends, your group will return to the cozy country accommodation in Hella. Like the previous night, if the weather cooperates, you'll have the chance to witness the enchanting dance of the aurora borealis.

After a day filled with extraordinary sights, cultural discoveries, and the possibility of witnessing the northern lights, it's time to retire at your comfortable country accommodation for the night.

On day four of your winter tour in Iceland, get ready to embark on an exhilarating journey through the iconic Golden Circle. On this scenic route, three extraordinary attractions await.

Before delving into the wonders of the Golden Circle, the tour will begin with a visit to the Fridheimar farm. You will explore a tomato greenhouse powered by geothermal energy throughout the year at the farm.

Additionally, you'll be delighted to meet some friendly Icelandic horses at the farm's stable. Icelandic horses are unique because they are the only breed in the world that can perform five gaits.

The journey continues to the Golden Circle, beginning with the beautiful Gullfoss waterfall. Feel the mist on your face as you stand in awe of the thundering cascades, which plunge dramatically into a rugged canyon below. In winter, the waterfall becomes more breathtaking as ice covers its cliffs.

Next on the itinerary is the Geysir geothermal area, home to the Great Geysir that gave all geysers their name. Although the Great Geysir is dormant these days, its neighbor, the Strokkur geyser, remains active with its eruption every five to 10 minutes. Make sure to bring out your camera to capture this dramatic event.

The journey through the Golden Circle culminates at Thingvellir National Park, a place of immense historical and geological significance. Here, you'll be treading upon the ground where the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates drift apart, forming a stunning rift valley.

Soon after, the bus will make its way back to Reykjavik. A fine dining culinary treat awaits you at a traditional restaurant in the downtown area. This is the opportunity to indulge in delectable Icelandic delicacies, celebrating the last night of your unforgettable winter adventure.

After dinner, take the chance to explore the vibrant streets of Reykjavik, with its charming cafes, boutique shops, and lively atmosphere. By now, the city is still brimming with Christmas festivities, so don't forget to head to the Christmas markets.

If not, you can call it a day by heading to your accommodation for the night.

On the last day of your winter tour in Iceland, enjoy a complimentary hotel breakfast, savoring the flavors of Icelandic cuisine one final time. Today, the schedule accommodates travelers with both early and later flights, ensuring a smooth departure from the land of fire and ice.

After breakfast, those with early flights will bid farewell to Reykjavik and take the convenient bus transfer from the city to the Keflavik International Airport. Reflect on the incredible experiences of the past five days as you traverse the picturesque landscapes of Iceland.

For travelers with later flights, you have the luxury of a few additional hours to immerse yourself in the local culture and explore the vibrant city of Reykjavik. As you stroll through the streets, there are must-visit destinations that offer a unique glimpse into Icelandic wonders and history.

Consider visiting the Perlan Museum, an architectural marvel set atop Oskjuhlid hill, offering panoramic views of Reykjavik and its surrounding winter landscapes. Inside the museum, you can learn more about Iceland's wonders through interactive exhibitions showcasing the country's natural phenomena, including glaciers, volcanoes, and the elusive northern lights.

This indoor experience perfectly complements your outdoor adventures in the past four days.

Take time to explore the charming streets of Reykjavik's city center, adorned with winter and Christmas decorations, creating a festive atmosphere during the holiday season. Visit local shops, art galleries, and cafes, where you can warm up with a cup of traditional Icelandic hot cocoa or a hearty bowl of hearty lamb soup.

Finally, as the time to bid farewell arrives, you'll board the complimentary bus transfer from Reykjavik to the Keflavik International Airport, where the journey comes full circle. As you traverse the otherworldly beauty of the Reykjanes Peninsula one last time, you'll carry with you the memories of Iceland's natural wonders, captivating traditions, and the warmth of its people.

See you on your next trip to Iceland.