Best Excursions in Iceland — Largest Selection & Cheapest Prices Guaranteed
Select starting location
Select dates
Add travelers
Excursions in Iceland
Refine the results by using the filters
Explore an unequalled wealth of tours and packages
Verified customer reviews
Read first-hand reviews by customers from across the world
The 10 Best Iceland Excursions and Adventure Tours
Iceland, often called the "Land of Fire and Ice," is a dream destination for thrill-seekers and nature enthusiasts. Iceland offers plenty of unforgettable excursions and adventure tours, thanks to its dramatic glaciers, erupting geysers, and cascading waterfalls. Here are the top ten excursions in Iceland you should not miss when visiting this magical country.
-
Affordable Northern Lights Tour From Reykjavik—Witness the magical aurora borealis dance across the Icelandic sky on this memorable experience from Reykjavik! Departing between August and April, this half-day guided bus tour takes you from the city into areas with the clearest skies for the best chance to see the lights. If the northern lights don’t appear during your tour, you can join another night for free, ensuring you don’t miss this magical natural wonder.
-
Golden Circle Excursion With Bruarfoss Waterfall and Kerid Crater—The golden circle tour offers an adventure to explore Iceland's most iconic landmarks, including Thingvellir National Park, Gullfoss waterfall, and the Geysir geothermal area. Unique stops like the stunning sapphire-blue Bruarfoss waterfall and the Kerid volcanic crater add extra charm to this tour, guided by a knowledgeable local expert.
-
Small Group 12-hour Tour of Snaefellsnes Peninsula with Transfer from Reykjavik—If you want to be taken through some of Iceland’s most breathtaking landscapes, this tour from Reykjavik to the Snaefellsnes Peninsula is the perfect choice. You'll visit highlights like the iconic Kirkjufell mountain, Djupalonssandur black sand beach, and the mystical Snaefellsjokull glacier and much more.
-
Northern Lights & Ice Cave Tour With Golden Circle, South Coast & Glacier Lagoon—If you want to experience the best of Iceland in just three days, this is the tour to join! You'll get to visit landmarks like Thingvellir National Park, Gullfoss waterfall, Jokulsarlon glacier lagoon, and the south coast's stunning waterfalls and black sand beach. You'll also explore a breathtaking ice cave in Vatnajokull glacier and stay two nights in countryside hotels, maximizing your chances of witnessing the magical northern lights.
-
Golden Circle Afternoon Tour from Reykjavik—If you’re short on time but want to explore Iceland’s iconic sights near Reykjavik, this tour is the perfect option. This day tour takes you to Thingvellir National Park, where you can walk between continents, the erupting Strokkur geyser in the Geysir geothermal area, and the stunning Gullfoss waterfall.
-
The Snaefellsnes Peninsula Tour from Reykjavik—Often called "Iceland in Miniature," the Snæfellsnes Peninsula offers an incredible variety of landscapes in one trip. This full day, small-group tour takes you to stunning sites like Snæfellsjökull glacier, the charming villages of Arnarstapi and Hellnar, the black sand beach of Djúpalónssandur, and the iconic Kirkjufell mountain—making it a must for any traveler exploring Iceland from Reykjavik.
-
Golden Circle Small Group Tour with Kerid Volcanic Crater from Reykjavik—This Icelandic excursion takes you to Thingvellir National Park, where you can walk between continents, the Geysir geothermal area with its erupting Strokkur geyser, and the breathtaking Gullfoss waterfall. You'll visit Iceland's most popular natural attractions, all must-sees on every traveler's bucket list.
-
Ice Cave & South Coast 2-Day Excursion to Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon—This tour takes you through Iceland’s stunning south coast, visiting highlights like Seljalandsfoss and Skogafoss waterfalls, Reynisfjara black sand beach, and the breathtaking glacier lagoon. You'll get the chance to explore a rare blue ice cave beneath Vatnajokull glacier, a natural wonder available only in winter.
-
South Coast Minibus Tour with Glacier Hike & Transfer from Reykjavik—This tour takes you on an unforgettable journey along Iceland’s South Coast. You'll visit to Seljalandsfoss and Skogafoss waterfalls, the black sand beach of Reynisfjara, and the basalt columns of Dyrholaey. A guided glacier hike on Solheimajokull is the highlight, giving you a chance to explore Iceland’s icy landscapes up close.
-
Inside the Volcano Thrihnukagigur Tour with Transfer from Reykjavik—This tour offers a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to descend into the colorful magma chamber of the dormant Thrihnukagigur volcano. You'll go on a scenic 2-mile hike across lava fields and a descent of 650 feet (198 meters) into the heart of the volcano via a unique elevator system. Inside, you’ll see the chamber’s vivid natural colors, immense size, and fascinating geological history.
What You Need to Know Before Going on an Excursion in Iceland
Planning an excursion in Iceland is essential to ensure a safe and memorable experience. Read below to discover the top things to consider before going on an Icelandic excursion.
Best Time of Year to Go On an Excursion in Iceland
Iceland’s distinct seasons impact the types of excursions available. Summer (June to August) offers the widest range of activities, such as glacier hiking, puffin watching, and other outdoor adventures. Winter (December to February) is perfect for northern lights tours, ice cave explorations, and snow-based activities, making it the best season for winter-specific adventure tours in Iceland.
What to Wear On an Excursion in Iceland
Iceland’s unpredictable weather makes dressing in layers crucial. Make sure to pack the following gear to have the most comfortable excursion.
-
Dress in Layers: Iceland's unpredictable weather necessitates layering to adjust to changing conditions.
-
Waterproof and Windproof Outerwear: Essential to stay dry and protected against harsh winds.
-
Thermal Clothing: Keeps you warm in cold temperatures, which is crucial for comfort during outdoor activities.
-
Sturdy Hiking Boots: Necessary for safely navigating rough terrains like glaciers and lava fields.
Having the right clothing and equipment ensures comfort and enjoyment during activities like glacier hikes and lava field walks.
When to Book Your Excursion in Iceland
For popular Icelandic adventures like northern lights excursions and trips to the Blue Lagoon, it's best to book between two to six months in advance. This range is particularly crucial during peak tourist seasons, from June to August and December to February when demand is highest.
Booking within this timeframe helps ensure you secure your preferred dates and avoid missing out on these unique experiences due to quick sell-outs.
Get Ready For Your Excursion in Iceland
Choosing the best excursions in Iceland requires careful consideration of your interests, the season, and what you hope to experience.
Whether you are adventuring through glaciers, relaxing in geothermal waters, or chasing the mesmerizing northern lights, Iceland offers an unforgettable experience that will leave a lasting impression. Make sure to book in advance, and get ready to explore this land of fire and ice on an unforgettable excursion
Frequently asked questions
What is the best excursion in Iceland?
Is it worth taking an excursion in Iceland?
Knowledgeable guides enhance your understanding of Iceland's unique geography, history, and traditions. While some travelers prefer self-guided exploration, excursions are an excellent choice for those with limited time or looking for a hassle-free way to discover the country's highlights.
Consider your interests, budget, and desired level of guidance to determine if an excursion aligns with your travel goals and enhances your Icelandic adventure.
What is the cheapest excursion in Iceland?
Another affordable trip in Iceland is a six-hour Golden Circle tour around Thingvellir National Park, the Geysir Geothermal Area, and the Gullfoss waterfall, providing a brilliant insight into the country’s nature.
Finally, an a budget-minded excursion in Iceland is a slightly longer Golden Circle tour with a stop at the Friedheimar geothermal greenhouses and their adjacent horse farm, lasting eight hours.
When is the best time to go on a northern lights excursion in Iceland?
To maximize your chances, join this affordable northern lights mystery tour, guided by local experts who will take you to the best viewing locations based on real-time conditions.
This tour ensures a memorable experience while chasing the magical auroras across Iceland's breathtaking landscapes.
How long is the average excursion in Iceland?
One of the longest multi-day excursions available is the small group eight-day guided summer tour of the complete Ring Road, during which you will encircle the entire country and enjoy a wealth of features and landscapes. One of the shortest multi-day excursions is this 2-day West Coast and Snaefellsnes Peninsula with lava caving and northern lights tour, a region so beautiful and diverse it is sometimes called "Iceland in miniature".
Day tours in Iceland also vary in length but offer tourists a convenient escape from Reykjavik. One of the shortest day tours available is the three-hour super jeep and ice caving tour, perfect for winter travelers looking for a quick adventure from Vik. This South Coast sightseeing tour with glacier hiking and northern lights hunting is more suited to those in Reykjavik looking for a full day of adventure, as it lasts 16 hours.
What are the best times to visit Iceland for excursions?
Winter (November to March) is ideal for northern lights excursions when the dark, polar nights provide the perfect backdrop for witnessing this spectacular natural phenomenon.
Do excursions offer hotel pickups at Reykjavik hotels?
When do excursions from Reykjavik usually start?
Are excursions in Iceland suitable for families with children?
This Excellent 10 Hour South Coast Tour from Reykjavik to Seljalandsfoss, Skogafoss & Reynisfjara is suitable for the whole family. Enjoy the remarkable attractions on the South Coast on this tour, available all year round.
This Family-Friendly 8-Hour Horse Riding and White Water Rafting Combination Tour in North Iceland requires a minimum age requirement of 6 years old. The combination of horseriding and white water rafting makes it ideal for both thrill-seekers and nature enthusiasts.
This Private 8 to 10-Hour Customizable Super Jeep Day Trip to Your Dream Locations from Reykjavik is suitable for families who want to personalize their excursion to their preferences and choose age-appropriate activities and attractions.
Can I combine multiple Icelandic excursions into one trip?
Experience glacier hiking, a rare blue ice cave under Vatnajökull, and prime Northern Lights viewing in one unforgettable Icelandic adventure.
What should I pack for an Icelandic excursion?
Don't forget to bring a swimsuit and towel for hot springs and geothermal baths.
Excursions with relaxing baths include this Golden Circle With Kerid & Blue Lagoon Tour with Entry Tickets & Pickup from Reykjavik. After enjoying the iconic attractions and the Kerid Crater, you get to rejuvenate and soak in the world-renowned Blue Lagoon.
If you prefer the road less traveled, join this Small Group 10 Hour Tour of the Silver Circle with Canyon Baths, Waterfalls & Reykholt. Enjoy the healing waters and views of the mountainous wilderness at the Husafell Canyon Baths.
What's the best way to get around during excursions in Iceland?
Do I get dropped off at my Reykjavik hotel after an excursion?
Is lunch included on excursions in Iceland?
Do excursions in Iceland offer all the equipment that you need?
Are there any safety considerations for Icelandic excursions?
Are glacier hike excursions safe for beginners?
Led by knowledgeable guides, this tour ensures a safe and enjoyable experience while exploring Iceland’s breathtaking glaciers, making it perfect for first-timers and adventure enthusiasts alike.
What are the most popular excursions and adventure tours in Iceland?
The Golden Circle full-day minibus excursion is a must-try for those wanting to explore iconic landmarks like the Gullfoss waterfall, Þingvellir National Park, and the Geysir geothermal area.
Another favorite is the 3-day ice cave & Glacier Lagoon tour, which takes you to Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon, Vatnajökull ice caves, and more along the South Coast.
For a diverse experience, the Snæfellsnes Peninsula tour, often called "Iceland in miniature," is perfect for exploring glaciers, black sand beaches, and charming villages. These excursions showcase Iceland’s natural beauty and are highly recommended by travelers.
Download Iceland’s biggest travel marketplace to your phone to manage your entire trip in one place
Scan this QR code with your phone camera and press the link that appears to add Iceland’s biggest travel marketplace into your pocket. Enter your phone number or email address to receive an SMS or email with the download link.
