From Reykjavík: 7-Day Around Iceland Ring Road & Snæfellsnes

Exploring Iceland in 7 Days: A Detailed Review of the Around Iceland Ring Road & Snæfellsnes Tour

Taking a week to circle Iceland’s famed Ring Road, with an added visit to the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, is an adventure packed with stunning landscapes, diverse natural phenomena, and memorable experiences. This tour, offered by BusTravel Iceland, promises to cover the best of what Iceland has to offer—from thundering waterfalls to icy caves, geothermal baths, and whale watching.

Based on reviews and detailed itineraries, this trip stands out for its well-organized schedule, knowledgeable guides, and high-quality accommodations. It’s a journey that feels both comprehensive and manageable, especially for those who prefer not to drive themselves. That said, it’s not perfect for everyone—if you’re seeking total independence or very specific dietary options, you might want to consider other options. But for most travelers craving authentic Icelandic sights with a touch of comfort, this tour hits a lot of marks.

The three things we particularly love about this experience are its variety of landscapes, the expert guidance, and the inclusion of key activities like ice caving and whale watching. On the flip side, a potential consideration is that some travelers may find the schedule packed, leaving little free time for spontaneous exploration. Still, if you want a structured, all-encompassing tour, this one checks many boxes.

It’s perfect for those who want to see Iceland’s highlights without the hassle of planning, travelers who appreciate comfort and expert local guides, and anyone eager for a richer experience than just self-driving a circular route.

Good To Know

• Comprehensive Itinerary: Visits to waterfalls, glaciers, geothermal areas, and cultural sites.
• Expert Guides: Guides like Kalman and Vala are praised for their knowledge and friendliness.
• Comfortable Accommodation: Six nights in well-rated hotels ensure restful nights amid busy days.
• Unique Experiences: Ice caving at Katla Ice Cave, whale watching, and bathing in Vök Baths add special touches.
• Small Group Feel: Limited to 18 travelers, ensuring a more intimate experience.
• Value for Money: The tour’s price of $2,088 per person includes many activities and accommodations, making it a strong value proposition.

You can check if your dates are available here:

The Road Trip Begins: Day-by-Day Breakdown

Day 1: Reykjavík to the Golden Circle & South Coast Highlights

The adventure kicks off with a morning pickup in Reykjavík, making it easy to meet your guide and fellow travelers without the stress of navigating. The first stop is Þingvellir National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site where the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates meet—an awe-inspiring sight that also offers a fascinating glimpse into Icelandic history.

Next, you’ll visit the Geysir geothermal area, home to the famous Strokkur geyser, which erupts every 5-10 minutes, shooting boiling water high into the air—a spectacle that often earns gasps of delight. Moving on to Gullfoss, Iceland’s grand waterfall, you’ll witness the power of nature as water cascades into a rugged canyon.

The day continues with visits to Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss, two waterfalls that are almost too beautiful to believe. Seljalandsfoss offers a rare chance to walk behind the cascading water, while Skógafoss’s thundering presence is a photographer’s dream.

The black sand Reynisfjara Beach rounds out the day with its striking basalt columns and dramatic sea stacks. Travelers who’ve done this tour mention that the landscapes here make for memorable photos and fascinating geology.

Day 2: From Vik to Jökulsárlón & Diamond Beach

After breakfast, the focus shifts to the South Coast’s dramatic scenery. The coastal village of Vík offers stunning views and a chance to stretch your legs. From here, the Katla Ice Cave becomes the highlight—hidden beneath the Mýrdalsjökull glacier, this cave offers surreal ice formations and a once-in-a-lifetime look at the frozen underworld.

One reviewer noted that the ice cave visit deserves a proper briefing and some extra equipment, hinting that the experience is immersive but might be intense for some. After the cave, you’ll visit Fjaðrárgljúfur, a winding canyon with mossy walls and a river flowing through—a favorite for its photogenic scenery.

The afternoon features visits to Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon and Diamond Beach, where icebergs drift into the sea and wash ashore, creating shimmering landscapes at sunrise or sunset. Travelers describe the lagoon as “breathtaking” and note that the view of floating ice against the black volcanic sand is unforgettable.

Day 3: East Iceland and Geothermal Relaxation

The tour travels eastward, stopping at the fishing village of Djúpivogur, which offers a peaceful, authentic Icelandic vibe. A lunch stop in Egilsstaðir provides a welcome break. Depending on the season, the itinerary adjusts to include Borgarfjörður Eystri, home to puffin colonies, or explore the eastern fishing villages.

In the afternoon, the Vök Baths—included in the Deluxe Tour—offer a relaxing geothermal experience, with floating pools and scenic views. Reviewers loved the baths, describing them as “soothing” after days of sightseeing, adding a touch of luxury to the journey.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Day 4: North Iceland’s Natural Wonders

The day includes visits to Stuðlagil Canyon, famous for its dramatic basalt columns, and Dettifoss, Europe’s most powerful waterfall, known for its thunderous roar and canyon setting. The landscape here is both raw and mesmerizing, often leaving visitors speechless.

Other highlights include Námaskarð geothermal area, with bubbling mud pots and steam vents, and Dimmuborgir lava fields, which look like landscapes from a fantasy novel. The day ends in Akureyri, Iceland’s second-largest town and an excellent base for exploring North Iceland.

Day 5: Whales and Cultural Sights

In Akureyri, many travelers opt for the whale-watching tour, which is included in the Deluxe Package. Reports suggest it’s an exciting, well-organized experience, with chances to see various whale species and enjoy the crisp North Atlantic waters.

Post-tour, you’ll visit Borgarvirki, an ancient volcanic fortress, and Hvítserkur, a striking sea stack resembling a dragon or dinosaur. The day wraps up with a visit to Kolugljúfur Canyon, a dramatic gorge with waterfalls and legends.

Day 6: West Iceland’s Waterfalls and Horse Farm

Before returning to Reykjavík, the tour includes a visit to Hraunfossar, where water flows from beneath lava fields into clear streams. You’ll also hike to the top of Grábrók crater, an active volcanic site offering panoramic views.

A highlight for many is visiting an Icelandic horse farm—these gentle, sturdy horses are a national treasure, and many reviews praise the opportunity to learn about their cultural significance firsthand.

The day concludes with a visit to Deildartunguhver, Europe’s most powerful hot spring, and then a transfer back to Reykjavík for your final night.

Day 7: Snæfellsnes Peninsula & Return to Reykjavík

The last day takes you along Iceland’s western coast, through the Snæfellsnes Peninsula. Known as “Iceland in Miniature,” this area features lava fields, rugged coastlines, volcanic craters, and the iconic Snæfellsjökull glacier.

Though the itinerary’s details on this day are brief, the scenery here is often described as diverse and magical, perfect for wrapping up your Icelandic journey with a bang.

Why This Tour Shines

The combination of diverse landscapes—from waterfalls and glaciers to geothermal areas and coastal cliffs—is a major selling point. Many travelers comment on how the itinerary hits all the major highlights without feeling rushed, thanks to the well-paced schedule and comfortable accommodations.

Guides like Kalman and Vala are consistently praised for their enthusiasm, knowledge, and ability to make complex geology and history accessible and engaging. Their insights turn scenic stops into memorable stories, making the experience more meaningful.

Inclusion of premium activities such as ice caving, whale watching, and geothermal baths elevate this tour from a simple sightseeing trip to a series of authentic Icelandic adventures. Reviewers especially appreciated the extra touches, like giving guests appropriate gear for ice caves and providing suits for whale watching, which shows attention to detail.

Accommodation quality is another strong point—staying six nights in comfortable hotels means you’re well-rested and ready for each day’s adventures. The small group size (limited to 18 participants) fosters a friendly atmosphere and allows for more personalized attention from guides.

Price and Value

At $2,088 per person, this tour represents a solid investment considering it includes all major sightseeing, most activities, and hotel stays. The deluxe package, which features ice caves, whale watching, and baths, adds even more value, especially for those eager to indulge in Iceland’s unique experiences.

While the cost might seem high at first glance, many travelers recognize that guided tours save time, reduce stress, and offer local expertise that’s hard to match when self-driving. Plus, the included activities are carefully selected to give you a true taste of Iceland’s natural wonders.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This trip is ideal for first-time visitors who want a rundown of Iceland’s highlights without the hassle of planning logistics. It’s also suitable for travelers who prefer comfortable accommodations and guided transportation over self-drive adventures.

Those interested in unique activities like ice caving and whale watching will find this tour offers excellent opportunities. It’s perfect for people who enjoy small groups, as the limited size enhances the experience’s intimacy.

However, if you’re someone who needs total flexibility or has specific dietary needs not accommodated in group meals, you might want to explore custom or self-guided options.

The Sum Up

This 7-day Iceland tour from Reykjavík offers a well-rounded, engaging experience that showcases the country’s incredible natural diversity. Guided by passionate, knowledgeable guides, you’ll explore waterfalls, glaciers, geothermal areas, and charming villages, all in comfort and with plenty of memorable activities.

The blend of spectacular sightseeing, cultural insights, and unique experiences like ice caves and whale watching makes it a rewarding package for most adventurous travelers. Its value is enhanced by high-quality accommodations and small-group intimacy, allowing for personalized moments and easy camaraderie.

If you’re looking to see Iceland’s top sights without the stress of planning, while enjoying comfort and special excursions, this tour is a smart choice. It’s especially suitable for those wanting a balanced mix of adventure, comfort, and culture in one memorable week.

FAQ

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, a professional English-speaking guide, six nights in comfortable hotels, six breakfasts, and sightseeing across Iceland. The Deluxe Tour also includes activities like ice caving, whale watching, and admission to Vök Baths.

How many people are in a group?
The tour operates with a small group, limited to 18 participants, ensuring a more personalized experience.

What activities are part of the deluxe package?
The deluxe experience features an ice cave tour at Katla, whale watching, and access to the geothermal Vök Baths.

What are the main highlights of the itinerary?
Highlights include Þingvellir National Park, Geysir geothermal area, Gullfoss waterfall, Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss waterfalls, Reynisfjara black sand beach, Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon, Dettifoss waterfall, whale watching, and the Snæfellsnes Peninsula.

Are meals included?
No, lunches and dinners are not included, so you’ll need to budget for meals on your own.

Is this tour suitable in winter?
Yes, the itinerary is flexible for winter, with options to explore East Iceland’s fishing villages or see the Northern Lights, depending on the season.

What should I pack?
Pack layered clothing, waterproof gear, sturdy walking shoes, and any personal gear needed for activities like ice caving or whale watching.

Can I book this tour alone?
Yes, but if you prefer a private room, there’s an additional single supplement fee.

How flexible is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering some peace of mind if your plans change.

Is prior experience necessary for activities like ice caving or whale watching?
No prior experience is needed, but some activities may require basic comfort with cold weather and water, respectively.

This carefully curated 7-day Iceland tour combines the best landscapes, cultural sights, and exciting adventures for a memorable trip that balances comfort with discovery. Whether it’s your first visit or your hundredth, it’s a journey worth considering.

You can check if your dates are available here: