8 Day Winter Circle Tour, Ring Route of Iceland with Snæfellsnes Peninsula

Iceland’s Ultimate 8-Day Winter Circle Tour Review

If you’re dreaming of a winter escape to Iceland, the 8 Day Winter Circle Tour offered by Troll Expeditions promises an immersive experience of the country’s most iconic sights. With a well-rounded itinerary, comfortable transportation, and knowledgeable guides, this tour aims to pack Iceland’s natural wonders into a manageable and enjoyable trip. Whether you’re a first-timer or revisiting to see the Northern Lights, this tour could be the perfect way to explore Iceland without the stress of planning every detail.

What we really love about this experience is the blend of natural beauty and cultural highlights, the convenience of having most logistics handled, and the opportunity to see the Northern Lights from several locations. Plus, the inclusion of activities like glacier hikes and whale watching adds a special touch. The only thing to consider is that some optional extras, such as horse riding or lava cave visits, are not included and will require extra planning if you’re interested. This tour suits those who want a comprehensive, guided adventure that maximizes value and minimizes hassle.

Good To Know

• Convenient, all-inclusive itinerary covers Iceland’s most famous sights and hidden gems.
• Expert guides enhance understanding and provide local insights.
• Comfortable transport with WiFi ensures connectivity and a smooth ride.
• Flexible options and add-ons allow customization, but some activities cost extra.
• Ideal for first-time visitors wanting to see a wide variety of landscapes.
• Good value for the price considering the inclusions and experiences.

A Deep Dive into the 8-Day Iceland Adventure

This tour is a well-thought-out journey through Iceland’s most celebrated natural attractions, combined with some lesser-known treasures. It’s designed to give travelers a taste of everything—glaciers, waterfalls, geysers, geothermal areas, and coastal scenery—without the hassle of organizing each stop independently.

Day 1: The Historic and Geothermal Highlights

Your Icelandic adventure kicks off with Thingvellir National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site where the Icelandic parliament was founded. It’s a place of both natural beauty and cultural significance, with dramatic rifts and a fascinating history. Expect your guide to share stories about the formation of this unique landscape.

Next, you’ll visit the Gullfoss Waterfall, where the mighty river plunges into a deep canyon—an awe-inspiring sight, especially if the winter sun catches the mist just right. Afterward, the Geysir geothermal area offers the chance to watch Strokkur erupt every 7 minutes, shooting boiling water high into the air. Our review notes that guides, like the friendly and knowledgeable team on this tour, make these stops even more engaging with insightful commentary.

In the evening, you’ll settle in near Hvolsvollur, a strategic location far from city lights, perfect for catching a glimpse of the Northern Lights if the conditions are right. According to reviews, being away from light pollution really makes a difference for Aurora viewing.

Day 2: Waterfalls, Black Sand Beaches, and Glaciers

This day is a showcase of Iceland’s contrasting landscapes. The Seljalandsfoss Waterfall is famous for the path that takes you behind the cascade—an experience that makes for some incredible photos and close-up views. Just a short drive away, Skogafoss impresses with its sheer power and a 60-meter drop.

In the afternoon, you’ll visit Reynisfjara Beach, where the black sands and towering basalt columns create an otherworldly scene. Be cautious of the strong Atlantic waves; guides tend to warn about safety, as waves can be surprisingly powerful here.

The highlight of the day is the Solheimajokull Glacier hike. With certified glacier guides, you’ll trek across ice formations, learn about glacier dynamics, and see the blue depths of the ice up close. This experience is highly praised, with reviewers mentioning the guides’ expertise and the unforgettable nature of walking on a glacier.

Overnight in Vík, a small village with minimal light pollution—making it a prime spot for Northern Lights spotting, especially since the tour bookers or guides often point out the best viewing times and spots.

Day 3: Ice Caves and Glacial Lagoons

A real bucket-list experience is on offer today—visiting the Crystal Ice Cave in Vatnajökull, Europe’s largest glacier. This natural ice cathedral, with its shimmering blue walls and intricate formations, is an incredible sight. The tour lasts about three hours, and the equipment and super jeep ride are included, ensuring safety and comfort.

Following this, the Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon offers floating icebergs and seals, with reviewers noting how peaceful and surreal the setting is. Nearby Black Diamond Beach, where ice chunks wash ashore on black sands, creates stunning photographic moments.

You also get a view of Hvannadalshnjúkur, Iceland’s highest peak, from a distance—highlighting the power and scale of Iceland’s volcanic landscape. These sights are not just beautiful but tell a story of Iceland’s ongoing geological activity.

Day 4: The East Fjords and Horseback Riding

This day takes you into the scenic East Fjords, with the majestic Búlandstindur Mountain offering a striking silhouette against the sky. The tiny fishing village of Djúpivogur embodies Iceland’s slow-paced, friendly charm, and is part of the Cittaslow movement, emphasizing quality of life and local culture.

For a true Icelandic experience, you can opt for a horseback riding adventure on the famed Icelandic Horse at Finnstaðir farm. While this isn’t included in the base price, reviews suggest it’s a highlight for many, especially beginners or those interested in the unique gait of these friendly animals.

Ending the day at Vök Baths, a geothermal hot spring on Lake Urriðavatn, offers relaxation after days of exploring. Bathing under the winter sky, with the chance to see the Northern Lights, makes this a memorable way to unwind.

Day 5: Mývatn Region and Waterfalls

This day explores the geothermal marvels around Lake Mývatn. The Námaskarð geothermal area features bubbling mud pots and steaming fumaroles, painting a landscape straight out of a sci-fi movie. Dimmuborgir lava formations provide an eerie, almost fantastical backdrop.

Godafoss, known as the Waterfall of the Gods, is a powerful sight with historical significance, and guides often share stories that deepen the experience. The day ends in Akureyri, Iceland’s northern capital, which is small but lively, with the potential for Northern Lights viewing from the town.

Day 6: Whale Watching and the North

Hauganes, a charming fishing village, is your starting point for whale watching. From its harbor, you’ll go on a boat trip in Eyjafjörður Fjord where, depending on the season and luck, you might see orcas, humpbacks, or minke whales. Reviewers highlight this as a major highlight, emphasizing the chance to see these gentle giants in their natural habitat.

The day concludes at Grábrók Crater, a well-preserved volcanic crater that offers a short hike and a good vantage point for Northern Lights, weather permitting.

Day 7: Snæfellsnes Peninsula’s Iconic Sights

This day covers the diverse beauty of the Snæfellsnes Peninsula. Starting with Gerðuberg basalt columns—a photographer’s dream—the tour then visits Ytri Tunga Beach, a rare white sand beach and seal colony, offering a different coastal perspective.

Búðakirkja, the striking black church, is a favorite for many, as is Arnarstapi, a charming village with stunning coastal cliffs. The Snæfellsjökull Glacier, last erupted around 200 AD, is a highlight, famously linked to Jules Verne’s Journey to the Center of the Earth.

Other sights include Londrangar Cliffs, Djúpalónssandur Beach, and Kirkjufell Mountain, often called the most photographed mountain in Iceland—certainly a fitting finale for this diverse landscape.

Day 8: The West and Return Home

On your final day, you’ll visit Deildartunguhver, Europe’s largest hot spring, and Reykholt, home to Snorri Sturluson, a key figure in Icelandic history. The Hraunfossar Lava Waterfalls and Barnafoss offer tranquil and striking scenery, with the added thrill of exploring Víðgelmir lava cave (optional, and not included), which is the largest lava cave in Iceland.

This last stretch showcases Iceland’s volcanic activity and geothermal power, wrapping up your trip with a well-rounded understanding of the island’s geological heartbeat.

The Value and Who Should Consider This Tour

At $679, this tour offers remarkable value for its extensive itinerary, expert guides, transportation, and key activities like glacier hiking and whale watching. Having most major sights included means you won’t need to worry about planning each stop or logistics, especially if traveling in winter, when roads and weather can be unpredictable.

The group size, capped at 17 travelers, helps maintain an intimate atmosphere without feeling crowded. Plus, the WiFi on board is a thoughtful touch, keeping you connected on the go. Many reviewers have emphasized how well-organized and stress-free their experience was, thanks to the guides’ professionalism. They also appreciated tips from guides like Helga and Siggi at the horse farm, who made the experience stand out.

This trip is best suited for travelers who want a comprehensive Iceland adventure, with a mix of natural wonders and cultural stops, without the hassle of driving or figuring out accommodations. It’s ideal for first-timers, nature lovers, and those eager to see the Northern Lights in a safe, guided environment.

Final Thoughts

The 8 Day Winter Circle Tour strikes a compelling balance between value, comfort, and memorable experiences. It covers the essentials—glaciers, waterfalls, geothermal areas, and wildlife—while offering opportunities to relax and soak in Iceland’s geothermal hot springs. The guides’ expertise and the carefully curated stops make it a dependable choice for anyone looking to make the most of a winter trip, especially if time is limited.

If you’re after a stress-free, well-paced tour that showcases Iceland’s diverse landscapes and natural phenomena, this is a great pick. Just remember to pack warm, waterproof gear, and keep your camera ready—you never know when the Northern Lights might make an appearance.

FAQ: Your Practical Questions Answered

Is this tour suitable for solo travelers?
Absolutely. The tour accommodates individuals comfortably within the group size, and many find the camaraderie a plus.

What’s included in the price?
All glacier equipment, the super jeep ride for the ice cave, whale watching from Hauganes, 7 nights of accommodation, and a knowledgeable guide are included.

Are meals included?
No, the tour does not include lunch or dinner, so you should budget for meals along the way.

Can I add activities like horseback riding or lava cave visits?
Yes, these are available as extras; contact the tour operator to include them.

What about the Northern Lights?
Many stops are located away from light pollution, and guides often point out the best viewing spots, especially in Vík and Akureyri.

How big are the groups?
The maximum is 17 travelers, ensuring a comfortable, personable experience.

Is transportation comfortable?
Yes, the tour uses a minibus with WiFi, making long drives more pleasant.

What should I bring?
Warm, waterproof clothing, hiking boots (optional rental available), camera, and a sense of adventure.

Is this tour suitable for families?
While most activities are suitable for older children, check with the operator regarding age restrictions especially for glacier hikes.

What happens in case of bad weather?
Tours can be canceled or rescheduled, and a full refund is available if weather conditions prevent certain activities.

The Icelandic 8 Day Winter Circle Tour offers an authentic, well-organized way to see the island’s highlights while enjoying the comfort of guided travel. It’s a smart choice for those eager to explore Iceland’s natural beauty without the stress of logistics or planning.