5-Day Small Group Journey Around Iceland

Exploring Iceland in Five Days: A Balanced Look at the Small Group Journey

Traveling in a country famed for its dramatic scenery, geysers, waterfalls, and glaciers, can be both exhilarating and overwhelming. This 5-day small group tour by Snæland Travel offers a well-rounded way to see Iceland’s highlights without feeling rushed or overwhelmed by logistics. It’s an excellent option for travelers who want a guided experience that balances iconic sights with authentic regional charm.

What sets this tour apart are three key elements: the knowledgeable local guides who weave captivating stories, the chance to see some of Iceland’s most famous sights like Jökulsárlón and Dettifoss, and the comfortable accommodations in well-rated hotels. However, the price—at around $1,907 per person—may seem steep, but it reflects the inclusiveness, guided expertise, and transportation comfort. This tour is particularly suited for those eager to explore Iceland’s diverse landscapes in a manageable, immersive way, especially if you prefer small-group settings over large coach tours.

Good To Know

• Comfort and Convenience: Small group size with spacious vehicles and free Wi-Fi on board make travel smoother.
• Rich Itinerary: Visits to waterfalls, glaciers, geothermal areas, and charming fishing villages offer a well-rounded Iceland experience.
• Expert Guidance: Knowledgeable local guides enhance understanding of Iceland’s geology, folklore, and history.
• Authentic Accommodations: Four nights in hotels with private bathrooms ensure comfort after long days of sightseeing.
• Flexible Options: Additional activities like Blue Lagoon and Glacier Jeep Adventures are available for extra cost.
• Ideal for travelers who want a balanced mix of natural beauty, cultural insight, and comfortable, guided travel.

You can check if your dates are available here:

A Closer Look at the 5-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Journey to Akureyri – North Iceland’s Charm

The adventure kicks off with a scenic drive through North Iceland, passing through Skagafjörður Fjord—famous as Iceland’s horse heartland, where horses outnumber people. A visit to the Glaumbær Museum introduces you to traditional turf farmhouses that showcase Icelandic rural life. The highlight is crossing the Öxnadalsheiði plateau, a landscape filled with rolling hills and volcanic remnants that set the tone for the trip.

Arriving in Akureyri, Iceland’s “Capital of the North,” travelers often find the town’s lively vibe and quaint charm a perfect introduction. The optional Forest Lagoon offers an opportunity for a relaxing soak in geothermal waters, a nice way to unwind after traveling. Guests love the “personal attention from guides” and the “stunning views” along the route, as one review noted.

Day 2: Lake Mývatn & Waterfalls – Volcanic Marvels

This day is packed with natural wonders. The Goðafoss Waterfall—known as the Waterfall of the Gods—is a breathtaking sight, especially in the early morning light. Walking around the Dimmuborgir lava formations and pseudocraters gives you a tactile sense of Iceland’s volcanic activity. The Grjótagjá lava cave offers a glimpse into the geothermal forces shaping the island.

A highlight of the day is the visit to Dettifoss, Europe’s most powerful waterfall, with its thundering roar and sheer force. The scenery around Lake Mývatn adds to the volcanic theme, with steaming geothermal fields at Námaskarð and the mystical Skútustaðagígar pseudocraters. Travelers report that guides “shared captivating stories” about the geology and folklore, enriching the experience.

Day 3: East Fjords – Scenic Villages and Reindeer

Driving through the East Fjords, you’ll witness Iceland’s untouched fishing villages and rugged mountain scenery. The narrow fjords and steep cliffs evoke a sense of wild, unspoiled beauty. In the small villages, you might notice the distinct calm and authenticity that larger tourist spots lack.

For those seeking adventure, an optional Glacier Jeep Tour on Vatnajökull—the largest glacier in Europe—offers a close-up view of ice caves and crevasses. While it’s an add-on, travelers who’ve done it say it’s worth the extra cost for the thrill and unique perspectives on the ice. One reviewer called the drive through the fjords “spectacular,” emphasizing the regional charm away from mainstream tourism.

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Day 4: Glaciers, Icebergs & Waterfalls of the South Coast

This full day explores the southeast coast‘s stunning natural sights. The Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon is a highlight—where floating icebergs create a surreal, shimmering landscape. An amphibian boat tour among the icebergs is often praised for its intimate experience with the blue and white ice formations.

Just nearby, Diamond Beach dazzles with scattered ice chunks on black volcanic sand, creating photo opportunities that look straight out of a postcard. The day continues with visits to the iconic Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach and the impressive Dyrhólaey sea arch.

Finally, the waterfalls of Skógafoss and Seljalandsfoss provide dramatic photo opportunities—especially since you can walk behind the cascade at Seljalandsfoss, a favorite feature among travelers. The combination of glaciers, waterfalls, and volcanic beaches offers a comprehensive picture of Iceland’s geological diversity.

Day 5: The Golden Circle & Optional Blue Lagoon

The tour’s final day is dedicated to the Golden Circle—a classic route packed with must-see sights. The majestic Gullfoss Waterfall, the bubbling Geysir geothermal area, and Þingvellir National Park, where North American and Eurasian tectonic plates pull apart, showcase Iceland’s geological dynamism.

The optional Blue Lagoon visit offers a relaxing end to the journey, perfect for unwinding and soaking in those mineral-rich waters. While it costs extra, many travelers find it a fitting way to cap their Iceland adventure, with the guides offering tips on how to make the most of the experience.

What’s Included and What’s Not

This tour provides excellent value for those wanting a worry-free experience. Included are hotel accommodations with private bathrooms, breakfast, airport pickup and drop-off, and a knowledgeable guide. The small group size means more personalized attention and fewer crowded buses, which many reviewers appreciate.

Extras like meals other than breakfast, the Blue Lagoon, and optional activities such as Glacier Jeep Tours or Forest Lagoon visits come at additional costs. This allows flexibility—you can choose what fits your budget and interests.

It’s important to note that Reykjavík accommodations, airport transfers, and meals outside breakfast are not included, so budget accordingly if you plan to arrive early or stay longer.

Why This Tour Is Worth Considering

While the price may seem high, the value lies in guided expertise, comfortable transport, and the chance to see Iceland’s top sights without the hassle of planning logistics yourself. The small group size encourages more interaction and personalized service, which many travelers find enhances their experience.

The itinerary offers a well-balanced mix of iconic attractions and regional charm, making it ideal for first-timers who want to tick off the must-sees while also experiencing Iceland’s less-traveled gems. The expert guides make the difference, often sharing stories and insights that deepen the sense of place.

This tour is best suited for those who prefer to travel with a smaller group, value comfort, and want an efficient way to see many iconic sights in a limited timeframe. If you’re after a straightforward, insightful, and scenic Iceland adventure, this tour offers a fantastic introduction.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

For travelers craving a comprehensive glimpse of Iceland’s natural wonders, this 5-day tour checks many boxes. It combines the thrill of discovering waterfalls, glaciers, geothermal fields, and picturesque villages in a manageable, guided format. The inclusion of expert guides and quality accommodations adds significant value, making it easier to relax and soak in the scenery.

If your goal is to maximize sightseeing in a short period without the stress of logistics, this tour is a solid choice. It’s particularly suitable if you’re traveling with a small group, enjoy engaging guides, and want a balanced mix of adventure, comfort, and cultural insight.

However, keep in mind the extra costs for optional activities and the fact that some experiences, like Blue Lagoon visits, are not included in the base price. Overall, it offers a good blend of adventure, comfort, and authentic Icelandic scenery at a fair price considering the inclusions.

FAQ

What is included in the tour price?
The tour includes hotel accommodations with private bathrooms for four nights, breakfast, pickup and drop-off at nearby hotels or bus stops, free Wi-Fi on the vehicle, and guidance from a professional local guide. It also includes visits to key sites like Glaumbær Museum and an amphibian boat tour on Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon.

Are airport transfers included?
No, airport transfers are not included. You’ll need to arrange your own transportation to and from the meeting point.

Can I join the tour if I’m staying outside Reykjavík?
Yes, pickup is available from nearby locations in Reykjavík, so you can coordinate your accommodation accordingly.

What optional activities are available?
Extras include the Forest Lagoon, Glacier Super-Jeep Adventure, and Blue Lagoon. These are paid separately at additional cost.

How many people are in each group?
While the exact group size isn’t specified, it’s a small-group tour, generally designed for an intimate experience, typically fewer than 20 travelers.

What do I need to bring?
Warm clothing and sturdy, warm shoes are recommended, as the weather can change quickly and many sights involve walking or standing outdoors.

Is this tour suitable for children?
It is not suitable for children under 5 years old, likely due to the nature of the activities and travel.

How long is each day’s driving?
While specific durations aren’t provided, expect long days with plenty of scenic stops, balanced with enough time at each major site to explore comfortably.

With its thoughtful itinerary, knowledgeable guides, and authentic Icelandic experiences, this tour offers a compelling way to explore Iceland’s most famous sights in just five days. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or returning for a quick overview, it’s an adventure that captures the essence of this extraordinary island.

You can check if your dates are available here: