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Day Tours in Iceland
Iceland, renowned for its dramatic landscapes and natural wonders, offers a wide range of day tours designed to suit every kind of traveler. Whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast, a history buff, or simply looking to immerse yourself in the island’s unique beauty, there’s something for everyone. Below, we’ve categorized these experiences into summer, winter, and year-round tours to highlight the best of each season.
Best Day Tours from Reykjavik
Reykjavik, the vibrant capital of Iceland, serves as the perfect starting point for day trips in Iceland that allow you to explore the country's natural wonders. From cascading waterfalls to geothermal hotspots, here are some of the best day tours from Reykjavik to embark on:
- Golden Circle Minibus Tour: This classic route covers three of Iceland's most famous landmarks: Thingvellir National Park, Geysir geothermal area, and Gullfoss waterfall, as well as the striking Kerid volcanic crater.
- South Coast Minibus Adventure: Journey along Iceland’s scenic south coast, where you'll encounter majestic waterfalls like Seljalandsfoss and Skogafoss, the black sand beaches of Reynisfjara, and views of glaciers and volcanoes.
- Combo Tours: Elevate your sightseeing experience by combining the iconic Golden Circle with thrilling activities. Choose a Golden Circle tour with snowmobiling on a glacier, or enjoy a full-day adventure that includes the Golden Circle and the Blue Lagoon. Another great combo is an exciting Glacier Hike and South Coast tour.
- Snaefellsnes Peninsula Minibus Tour: Explore "Iceland in Miniature" with its diverse landscapes, including the Snaefellsjokull glacier, picturesque fishing villages, and the dramatic cliffs of Arnarstapi.
- Whale Watching Boat Tour: Departing from Reykjavik harbor, this tour takes you into Faxafloi Bay to spot whales, dolphins, and seabirds.
- Into the Glacier: Discover the stunning Langjokull glacier and venture into its man-made ice tunnels. Marvel at the shimmering blue ice and learn about the glacier's history and formation on this unforgettable adventure.
- Lava Tunnel Exploration: Join a tour to Raufarholshellir, one of Iceland’s largest lava tubes, which has convenient pick-up and drop-off in Reykjavik.
Best Day Tours in Winter
Winter transforms Iceland into a snowy wonderland, offering unique winter activities and breathtaking experiences. Popular winter day trips in Iceland include:
- Ice Caving in Vatnajokull: Explore dazzling blue ice caves formed by natural glacial movements; the caves change yearly, creating a truly unique experience.
- Northern Lights Bus Tour: On clear winter nights, head out of the city for a chance to witness the awe-inspiring northern lights. Expert guides monitor the forecast to maximize the likelihood of sightings.
- Northern Lights Cruise: During winter, one of the most unique experiences you can have is an incredible boat tour searching for the aurora borealis. These tours usually last around two hours and depart from Reykjavik.
- North Iceland Dog Sledding Tour: Glide through snowy landscapes near Akureyri guided by a team of eager sled dogs.
Best Day Tours in Summer
Iceland’s endless summer daylight offers unique opportunities for outdoor exploration and adventure. The best day trips in Iceland during the summer are the following:
- Boat Tour in Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon: Sail among floating icebergs and marvel at the contrast of blue ice and black volcanic sand.
- Inside the Volcano: Descend into the vast magma chamber of the dormant Thrihnukagigur volcano, a one-of-a-kind experience exclusive to Iceland.
- Highlands Super Jeep Tour: Explore the vibrant mountains of Landmannalaugar and the lush valleys of Thorsmork in the comfort and style of a powerful super jeep.
- Midnight Sun ATV Tour: Discover the magic of Iceland's endless summer nights as you navigate the stunning volcanic landscape on an exciting ATV adventure.
Best Year-Round Day Tours
Some of Iceland’s most popular experiences can be enjoyed at any time of the year, with slight seasonal variations. These include:
- The Golden Circle: Discover Thingvellir National Park, the Geysir geothermal area, and the stunning Gullfoss waterfall. In winter, enjoy snowy landscapes; in summer, the lush greenery adds a different charm.
- Geothermal Hot Springs: Soak in the Blue Lagoon, Secret Lagoon, or Reykjadalur’s natural hot springs. These spots are equally relaxing and scenic in any season.
- The South Coast: A South Coast day tour features Seljalandsfoss and Skogafoss waterfalls, Reynisfjara black sand beach, and stunning views of glaciers and volcanoes.
- Snaefellsnes Peninsula: A Snaefellsnes peninsula day tour showcases Kirkjufell mountain, black sand beaches, charming fishing villages, and the iconic Snaefellsjokull glacier.
- Glacier Walks: Available year-round on Solheimajokull or Skaftafell glaciers, with variations in the landscape depending on the season.
- Snorkeling in Silfra: Swim in crystal-clear glacial waters between tectonic plates, available year-round but particularly refreshing in summer.
- Horseback Riding: Ride Icelandic horses through scenic trails, such as through lava fields near Hveragerdi or past waterfalls and volcanic landscapes around the Hekla volcano.
- Lava Cave Exploration: Explore fascinating underground lava tubes like Raufarholshellir, which are formed by ancient volcanic activity.
Whether you are seeking thrilling outdoor adventures or peaceful retreats, Iceland’s day tours promise unforgettable memories and a unique perspective on this extraordinary destination.
Frequently asked questions
What is the best Iceland day tour?
• South Coast and Jokulsarlon Glacial Lagoon Tour: This tour takes you along Iceland's breathtaking South Coast, featuring majestic waterfalls like Seljalandsfoss and Skogafoss, the black sand beach of Reynisfjara, and the mesmerizing Jokulsarlon glacial lagoon, where icebergs drift peacefully.
• Snaefellsnes Peninsula Tour: Often called "Iceland in Miniature," the Snaefellsnes peninsula offers diverse landscapes, including volcanic craters, black sand beaches, charming fishing villages, and the iconic Snaefellsjokull glacier.
• Inside the Volcano Tour: This unique adventure allows you to descend into the magma chamber of the dormant Thrihnukagigur volcano, providing a rare opportunity to explore Iceland’s geological wonders up close.
• Whale Watching from Reykjavik: Departing from Reykjavik's Old Harbor, this whale-watching tour offers the chance to see minke whales, humpback whales, and dolphins in their natural habitat while enjoying stunning ocean views.
• Glacier Caving in Vatnajokull: Explore the breathtaking blue ice caves of Vatnajokull, Europe's largest glacier, on a guided tour that takes you inside the glacier’s icy tunnels and formations.
What is the cheapest day tour in Iceland?
• Viking World Museum Entrance: Explore Iceland's Viking heritage at the Viking World Museum on the Reykjanes peninsula. This museum features interactive exhibits, reconstructed Viking settlements, and authentic artifacts, providing a fascinating look into Viking-age society, trade, and exploration.
• Eiriksstadir – Viking Longhouse Experience: Visit the reconstructed homestead of Eirik the Red and Leif Eiriksson to gain insight into the daily life of early Icelandic settlers. Guides share stories of Viking exploration and survival in the Icelandic landscape.
• Reykjavik's Iconic Sites Walking Tour: This self-guided audio tour allows you to explore Reykjavik at your own pace, covering landmarks such as Hallgrimskirkja church, the Sun Voyager sculpture, and Harpa Concert Hall. The GPS-integrated app provides stories and facts about each site.
• Geothermal Rye Bread Experience: At Laugarvatn Fontana, discover the unique method of baking rye bread using geothermal heat. This 30-minute tour includes a demonstration and a tasting of the traditionally baked bread.
Is it worth taking a day tour in Iceland?
How long is the average day tour in Iceland?
What kind of day tours are available in Iceland?
For those seeking adventure, the Skaftafell Glacier Hike offers an unforgettable journey across Iceland’s frozen landscapes. Led by experienced guides, participants traverse stunning ice formations and crevasses, gaining insight into the country’s unique glacial environment. Another thrilling option is the Siberian Husky Tour, where visitors can experience the excitement of dog sledding, guided by a team of energetic huskies through Iceland’s snowy terrain. If horseback riding is more appealing, the Black Beach Riding Tour allows guests to ride Icelandic horses along the scenic black sand beaches near Vik, blending nature and history in one breathtaking experience.
For those in search of natural wonders, the Northern Lights Hunt Super Jeep Tour is an excellent choice. This nighttime adventure takes visitors deep into the Icelandic countryside, away from city lights, to maximize the chances of witnessing the stunning Aurora Borealis.
For a more relaxing and culturally immersive experience, the Bjorbodin Beer Spa provides a unique opportunity to soak in a warm beer bath while enjoying the scenic views of North Iceland. Combining relaxation with Iceland’s brewing traditions, this tour offers a one-of-a-kind wellness experience.
With such a diverse range of options, Iceland’s day tours ensure that every traveler can find an experience suited to their interests, whether it's adventure, wildlife, natural phenomena, or relaxation.
Do day tours in Iceland offer hotel pick-up?
Excursions with hotel transfers include a small-group Golden Circle tour, a 12-hour tour of the Snaefellsnes peninsula, a South Coast minibus tour with a glacier hike, and a 10-hour Golden Circle tour with snowmobiling.
Some tours include a transfer from a designated meeting point. This snowmobiling trip to Langjokull glacier includes pick-up in Gullfoss, and this horseback riding tour of a black sand beach includes a transfer from Vik.
Other tours with pick-up from a meeting point include this whale-watching boat tour, with a transfer from Akureyri.
Is lunch included on day tours in Iceland?
Some tours, like this snorkeling tour in Silfra and this six-hour volcano tour, include light snacks and drinks. For others, like this 11-hour tour of Snaefellsnes National Park, lunch is not included, but you can buy lunch at some point during the trip. Some of the excursions in Iceland are short, and some take place in the evening — these tours don’t usually include lunch or snacks. In these cases, you may want to bring some snacks with you in case you get hungry.
Are day tours in Iceland suitable for children?
In most cases, northern lights and sightseeing tours are suitable for people of any age. If you plan to travel with young children, this family-friendly lava cave tour or this northern lights hunting tour with a photographer are excellent choices.
Day tours in Iceland that involve adventurous outdoor activities usually have minimum age requirements. For example, this drysuit snorkeling tour and the glacier hiking tour on Skaftafell are only suitable for people ages 12 and 14 and up, respectively.
What is the best time of year to take a day tour in Iceland?
Are there any day tours that focus on the northern lights in Iceland?
From bus tours and boat tours to super jeep adventures, you'll find a wide selection of Iceland northern lights tours to suit your travel preferences.
Can day tours in Iceland accommodate people with disabilities?
What are the safety measures in place for day tours in Iceland?
Do any day tours in Iceland include visits to geothermal areas or hot springs?
Another option is the Hvammsvik Natural Hot Springs, which provides a unique experience with eight geothermal pools set amidst stunning coastal landscapes.
For a luxurious spa experience, the Sky Lagoon Pure Pass allows you to enjoy an infinity pool overlooking the ocean, along with a seven-step spa ritual.
In North Iceland, the Myvatn Nature Baths let you unwind in warm, mineral-rich waters surrounded by the serene Myvatn region.
Lastly, the Secret Lagoon Spa offers a more intimate setting in one of Iceland's oldest natural pools, surrounded by geothermal features.
Are there day tours available that focus on Iceland's wildlife, such as whale watching?
For example, you could book a year-round 3-hour whale-watching tour from Reykjavik or an Akureyri whale-watching tour, or check out this summer whale-watching tour from Husavik.
What should I wear or bring with me on a day tour in Iceland?
Are there day tours that explore Iceland's volcanic landscapes and lava fields?
For example, the Inside the Volcano tour takes you to a colorful lava tube and includes a transfer from Reykjavik.
Can I book a private or custom day tour in Iceland?
For example, a popular option is this private Golden Circle tour with the Secret Lagoon.
Are there any cultural or historical day tours available in Iceland?
For example, this folklore walking tour of Reykjavik includes tales of trolls, elves, and hidden people.
How can I book a day tour in Iceland and what is the cancellation policy?
Are there any day tours that include hiking or other outdoor activities in Iceland?
Do day tours in Iceland operate during the winter months?
What are the best day tours for first-time visitors to Iceland?
Are there any short day tours in Iceland for travellers with limited time?
What are the most family-friendly day tours in Iceland?
What is the best day tour for seeing multiple attractions in one trip?
Are there day tours to less touristy or off-the-beaten-path destinations in Iceland?
Which day tours are suitable for solo travellers?
What are the best day tours in Iceland during spring or autumn?
How do day tours differ between summer and winter in Iceland?
What should I pack for a day tour in Iceland during winter?
Will there be bathroom breaks or stops on longer day tours?
Are there any tours focusing on Iceland’s volcanic landscapes?
What are the best day tours for couples?
• Sky Lagoon Pass + Transfer: This relaxing 3-hour experience provides couples with a serene escape at the Sky Lagoon, a geothermal spa located near Reykjavik. The tour includes round-trip transfers and access to the lagoon's rejuvenating waters, making it an ideal choice for those looking to unwind in a tranquil setting.
• Blue Lagoon Spa Premium Package: Couples can indulge in the iconic Blue Lagoon with this premium package, offering exclusive amenities such as a silica mud mask, use of a towel and bathrobe, and a complimentary drink. The Blue Lagoon's mineral-rich waters provide a unique and romantic experience amidst Iceland's stunning landscapes.
• The Golden Circle and a Secret Lagoon: This luxurious 8-hour private tour combines the classic Golden Circle route—visiting Thingvellir National Park, Geysir geothermal area, and Gullfoss waterfall—with a relaxing stop at the Secret Lagoon, Iceland's oldest geothermal pool. Traveling in a private vehicle with a guide, couples can enjoy the sights at their own pace, culminating in a soothing geothermal bath.
• Private Northern Lights Hunt: This tour offers an intimate experience chasing the mesmerizing northern lights. With personalized guidance and convenient transfers from Reykjavik, it's a memorable way to witness this natural phenomenon together.
How do I choose the best day tour for my budget?
Can I rent gear for outdoor activities if I don’t have the right clothing?
How large are the groups on most day tours?
Are there any food or drink day tours available in Iceland?
What happens if a tour is canceled due to bad weather?
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