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Iceland Tours, Vacations and Travel Packages

  • Admire the natural power of Dettifoss, Europe's most powerful waterfall
  • Embrace the beauty of the immense lava fields of the Reykjanes Peninsula
  • Step into history while exploring traditional Icelandic houses with grass roof
  • Experience the Geothermal smoking field Hveradalir in the Kerlingarfjoll mountains
  • Hike up hills to admire the Seljalandfoss waterfall at its best profile
  • Watch nature dance with through the beauty of the Northern lights

Iceland is a mountainous island nation located in the North Atlantic Ocean located between Europe and North America. Though not part of mainland Europe, the country when on an Iceland vacation is considered Nordic European and is also the gateway and stopping point on many Arctic cruises.

Why Consider an Iceland Vacation?

The name of the country, Iceland, may not be that appropriate. Although 10% of Iceland is covered by glaciers, it has a surprisingly mild climate and countless geothermal hot spots. It is a stunningly beautiful place if you enjoy unusual and desolate landscapes. The country itself is a land of extreme contrasts. Vast, unspoilt nature lies at the doorsteps of a highly modern urban community. Iceland is volcanically and geologically active. The interior consists mainly of a plateau of sand and lava fields, mountains and glaciers all available to enjoy on an Iceland vacation. Many fjords dot Iceland's 4970-kilometre/3090-mile long coastline which is also where most settlements are situated.

Best time to visit Iceland

Because it is so close to the Arctic Circle, the amount of daylight varies dramatically by season. The sun sets briefly each night in June but it doesn't get fully dark before it comes back up again. In March and September, days and nights are of about equal length as elsewhere in the world. If you go in December, you will experience almost 20 hours of darkness. Summer is definitely the best time to go on Iceland trips. The midnight sun is a beautiful sight and one definitely not to be missed. It is easy to lose track of time when the sun is still up at 11 pm.  

What are the Best Things to See on Iceland Tours?

Fairytale Reykjavik

When taking an Iceland vacation, the first place usually visited is the capital and largest city, Reykjavik. Possibly, the first thing that strikes the visitor is the differently-styled, colourful houses with their red, white, blue and green rooftops. Reykjavik is a sophisticated city and has an excellent selection of restaurants, bars and shops. It is also a compact city and very easy to walk around which is highly recommended as many attractions are within walking distance from the centre. The Old Harbour is where you can watch fishing boats bobbing in the water and take in the snow-capped mountains in the background. From here, you can take whale-watching and puffin-viewing trips. One landmark that can’t be missed in Reykjavik is the Hallgrimskirkja, an extraordinarily designed church which dominates the skyline. There are great views of the surrounding area from the rooftop viewing platform. Reykjavik boasts many museums and art galleries. The most important include the excellent National Museum of Iceland, the National Gallery of Iceland and the very unusual Icelandic Phallological Museum.

The Therapeutic Blue Lagoon

The Blue Lagoon is located a few minutes from Keflavik International Airport and 40 minutes by road from Reykjavik. It is Iceland’s most popular attraction on trips to Iceland. Mineral-rich hot water under the earth has formed a spectacular lagoon which has been developed into a luxurious health spa whose geothermal seawater is known for its positive effects on the skin. You can bathe in warm waters regardless of the outside temperature. You can also luxuriate in spa treatments and massage therapy.

Take the Golden Circle Tour

After Reykjavik, the most popular activity on an Iceland vacation is usually the Golden Circle tour easily done in half a day from Reykjavik but perhaps more interesting if taking a full-day tour or on a self-drive vacation. Thingvellir National Park is 40 kilometres/25 miles from Reykjavik and is a UNESCO World Heritage site because of its historical, cultural and geological significance. It is also the site of Iceland’s first parliament established in 930 AD. The parliament met here until 1798. Gullfoss Waterfall is exceptionally beautiful. On looking at the waterfall from the viewing platform, one gets a bird’s eye view of the tumbling and rushing waters and a feel for the force and power of nature. The water falls down 32 metres/104 feet in two stages into a rugged canyon where the walls are as high as 70 metres/230 feet in height. Possibly the highlight of the Golden Circle on an Iceland tour is the opportunity to see geysers/hot springs in action. The highly active Geysir Hot Spring area has boiling mud pits and exploding geysers. The most active is Strokkur which spouts water 30 metres/100 feet into the air every few minutes. One can get fairly close to it. The Visitor Centre is close to the geysers and offers an interactive multimedia exhibition about the complete Golden Circle area including the history and the nature of Thingvellir.

The Mighty Skogafoss Waterfall     

Skogafoss is one of the biggest and most beautiful waterfalls in Iceland located in South Iceland. Due to the amount of spray the waterfall often produces, you may well see a single or double rainbow on sunny days. There are steps leading up to an observation platform above Skogafoss but it is well worth climbing up to see the waterfall from above and the beautiful view from there.

Eyjafjallajokull, Iceland’s Number One Volcano

Eyjafjallajokull is located on the south coast of the country and is Iceland’s most notorious volcano. The eruption of Eyjafjallajokull, in 2010 after being dormant for more than 180 years, resulted in the grounding of thousands of flights all over Europe. It has a crater of up to 4 kilometres/2.4 miles in diameter. Eyjafjallajokull is a conical strata volcano built of many layers of hardened lava and volcanic ash. Strata volcanoes are among the most common volcanoes. Due to the glacier on top of Eyjafjallajokull, eruptions are explosive and contain much ash.

The Marvellous Myrdalsjokull Glacier

The Myrdalsjokull Glacier is the fourth largest glacier in Iceland and covers a vast area of more than 700 square kilometres/270 square miles and is as thick as750 metres/2460 feet in places. When the sky is clear, the glacier ranks among the most visually stunning in the world. Unlike other glaciers that you can only admire from a distance, here you can get up close and even step onto the ice. Because of crevasses and quickly changing and extreme weather conditions, touring the glacier with an experienced guide is recommended. The entire ice cap sits atop Katla Volcano, one of the largest active volcanoes in the Northern Hemisphere. The volcano erupts every 40 to 60 years with the last eruption being in 1918.

Dynamic Vatnajokull National Park

Vatnajokull National Park covers 13% of Iceland and is one of the largest national parks in Europe. This is where the battle between ice and fire still rages, created by the forces of rivers, glaciers and volcanic and geothermal activity. The park contains the largest glacier in the world outside the Arctic. Vatnajokull National Park offers the opportunity to experience and learn about the forceful interplay between volcanoes and glaciers.

Experience the Amazing and Elusive Northern Lights

One activity that must be mentioned is tracking down the sometimes elusive Northern Lights. This very special phenomenon is really only seen outside of an urban area. Iceland offers tours to view this remarkable happening including from Reykjavik each evening. An alternative is to visit the Aurora Reykjavik Museum for explanations and visual aids. The best time to view the Northern Lights? The Northern Lights season is from late August to mid-April. However, from late September to late March, it is dark after 6 pm and that is when you have the best opportunity to see them. There is no darkness from mid-April until mid-August. In this period of time, no Northern Lights can be observed.

What Activities are Popular in Iceland?

Cruising Around Iceland

Sailing from Reykjavik around Iceland will provide you with amazing sites, spectacular scenery and excellent insight into this magical land. You will see majestic fjords, cascading waterfalls, mighty glaciers, remote fishing villages, abundant wildlife and active volcanoes.

Iceland Self-Drive Tours 

What better way to explore Iceland’s rich natural treasures including national parks, beautiful waterfalls, striking glaciers, magnificent volcanoes and hot springs? And you travel at your own speed, stop when you want to and arrive at your next destination with prearranged accommodation awaiting you.

What Types of Tours are Available in Iceland?

You can enjoy an Iceland vacation either independently with a self-drive prearranged itinerary or you can join one of the several small group tours of Iceland. Specialized tour arrangements can include jeep tours which take you over terrain not usually accessible by other means of transport while seeing amazing sights. Or for something totally different, how about an Ice Cave experience? Hike behind waterfalls, stroll alongside icebergs and delve into glacial caves along Iceland’s south coast. Perhaps you might want to experience Iceland on an Iceland luxury tour which would include a private car and driver, a helicopter ride a glacier walk and a private jeep ride. 

This is a very special, luxury private tour offering the very best of Iceland with two seasons from which to choose. Summer offers whale watching, a scenic helicopter ride, and exploration of geothermal wonders including amazing glaciers, breathtaking fjords and active volcanoes. Winter includes the helicopter ride, a not-to-be-forgotten glacier walk, a private jeep ride, a snowmobile excursion and a gourmet lobster feast. The choice is yours.

How Long Should I stay in Iceland?

There are two ways of approaching an Iceland vacation. Consider a stopover for a few days if you are on your way to Europe. Airline routes allow you to break your journey here. Use Reykjavik as your base and make sure to include the Golden Circle Tour. However, a week is recommended to really enjoy all the natural wonders of the country on trips to Iceland. Then you have the luxury of choosing your preferred travel arrangement be it guided tours of Iceland including airfare or small group tours of Iceland.

What are the national parks of Iceland?

There are three national parks, Vatnajokull National Park, Snaefellsjokull National Park and Thingvellir National Park. Iceland has many geysers from which the English word is derived. The famous Strokkur erupts every 5–10 minutes. After a phase of inactivity, another, Geysir started erupting again after a series of earthquakes in 2000. Geysir has since grown quieter and does not erupt often. Iceland has hundreds of volcanoes with approximately 30 volcanic active systems. With the widespread availability of geothermal power and the harnessing of many rivers and waterfalls for hydroelectricity, most residents have access to inexpensive hot water, heating and electricity. 

 "Globetrotting with Goway" blog articles

For some additional reading, the following articles are from our blog “Globetrotting with Goway”….. a great source of information for those people who are, or who want to be, world travellers!

Endless Possibilities on an Iceland Vacation

Iceland Tours: A Symphony of the Elements

The World of Ice and Fire: 10 Game of Thrones Filming Locations in Europe

Rug Up and Fly! Why Winter is Prime Time for an Iceland Vacation

Take a Self-Drive Tour on an Iceland Vacation and Discover Breathtaking Nature

10 Ways Volcanoes are Cool in Iceland

 

Iceland Vacation Information

At Goway we believe that a well-informed traveller is a safer traveller. With this in mind, we have compiled an easy-to-navigate travel information section dedicated to an Iceland vacation. 

Learn about the history and culture of Iceland, the must-try food and drink, and what to pack in your suitcase. Read about Iceland's nature and wildlife, weather and geography, along with 'Country Quickfacts' compiled by our travel experts. Our globetrotting tips, as well as our visa and health information,  will help ensure you're properly prepared for a safe and enjoyable trip. The only way you could possibly learn more is by embarking on your journey and discovering Iceland for yourself. Start exploring...book your Iceland vacation today!

Extend your Stay

Consider an additional stopover to your Iceland tours on one of Goway's other European tours. This can be done stopping over en route in Iceland to or from Europe.

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FEATURED TRIP
  • Reykjavik Skyline
  • Northen Lights over Iceland
  • Oxararfoss waterfall in Thingvellir National Park
  • Strokkur Geyser
  • Reykjavik Harbour
FEATURED TRIP

Reykjavik Signature

DELUXE | PRIVATE-GUIDED: On this customizable adventure, you're invited to experience the Land of Fire & Ice during the best time of the year. With an aim to catch the elusive, astounding Northern Lights by sea, begin your trip with a plunge into the shimmering Blue Lagoon, relax in deluxe accommodations throughout your stay, sample local beers, tour the Golden Circle and explore the belly of a dormant volcano.

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Iceland

  • Price:
    Duration:

    • Other Ways to Go

    • Go Your Way...Tailor-made

    • How to Go

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  • Highlights of Reykjavik

    FIRST-CLASS | TAILOR-MADE: Enjoy a spectacular visit to the Land of Fire and Ice on this excellent trip based out of Iceland's funky capital, Reykjavik. Take in the highlights of the Golden Circle, including Geysir and Gullfoss, spelunk into the dormant remains of a volcano, enjoy a foodie-themed walking tour, and cap off your stay with a relaxing dip in the waters of the Blue Lagoon.
    Duration:
    5 Days
    Prices From:
    US$ 1,686
    Trip Type:
    Active & Adventurous, Stopovers/City Breaks, Tailor-made Travel Ideas
    Iceland See Trip Details

  • Scenic South Iceland

    FIRST-CLASS | SMALL GROUP: Experience Iceland's wonders and adventures like a local. Visit the most fascinating and scenic highlights of South Iceland on this guided small group tour. A fantastic introduction into Iceland's volcanoes and glaciers, learn from a professional local guide as you visit unique natural attractions including black sand beaches, hot springs, waterfalls, vast volcanic areas and jagged bird cliffs.
    Duration:
    5 Days
    Prices From:
    US$ 3,049
    Trip Type:
    Small Group Touring
    Iceland See Trip Details

  • Reykjavik Discovery

    MODERATE | TAILOR-MADE: Reykjavik is the capital city of Iceland, and home to roughly two-thirds of the country’s population. The cultural and entertainment hub of Iceland, it serves as an excellent location for a quick getaway or for a stopover during a larger vacation. On this expedited adventure, learn about Iceland’s foremost attractions, tour funky Reykjavik and head out to experience the wonders of the Golden Circle.
    Duration:
    4 Days
    Prices From:
    AU$ 2,608
    Trip Type:
    Stopovers/City Breaks, Tailor-made Travel Ideas
    Iceland See Trip Details

  • Iceland Golden Circle Self-Drive: Hveragerdi, Vik, Reykjavik & More

    MODERATE | SELF-DRIVE: A wonderful way to leisurely enjoy Iceland on your own, stop as you please and for as long as you wish to take in the extraordinary beauty of Iceland's incredible Golden Circle. Volcanoes, glaciers, lava fields, hot springs, gushing waterfalls and more are all yours to discover and in the span of just a few days.
    Duration:
    5 Days
    Prices From:
    US$ 730
    Trip Type:
    Active & Adventurous, Self-Drives, Tailor-made Travel Ideas
    Iceland See Trip Details

  • Reykjavik Signature

    DELUXE | PRIVATE-GUIDED: On this customizable adventure, you're invited to experience the Land of Fire & Ice during the best time of the year. With an aim to catch the elusive, astounding Northern Lights by sea, begin your trip with a plunge into the shimmering Blue Lagoon, relax in deluxe accommodations throughout your stay, sample local beers, tour the Golden Circle and explore the belly of a dormant volcano.
    Duration:
    4 Days
    Prices From:
    AU$ 4,553
    Trip Type:
    Luxury and Beyond, Private Experiences, Stopovers/City Breaks, Tailor-made Travel Ideas
    Iceland See Trip Details

  • Reykjavik and the Golden Circle

    DELUXE | TAILOR-MADE: Discover trendy Reykjavik and the beautiful scenery of the Golden Circle and South Iceland on this introductory tour of Iceland. Based in Reykjavik, you’ll experience a taste of the city’s culinary scene before exploring Solheimajokull, the Golden Circle, and the subterranean chambers of Thrihnukagigur Volcano.
    Duration:
    5 Days
    Prices From:
    AU$ 5,364
    Trip Type:
    Tailor-made Travel Ideas
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  • Iceland Complete Self-Drive: Reykjavik, Akureyri, Hofn & More

    MODERATE | SELF-DRIVE: This self-drive favorite explores Iceland’s rich natural treasures, including national parks, beautiful waterfalls, striking glaciers, magnificent volcanoes and hot springs. With time in the funky capital city of Reykjavik and to visit mighty Gullfoss Waterfall, Geysir, Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon, Lake Myvatn, and Thingvellir and Vatnajokull National Parks, it is the perfect option for globetrotters looking to discover Iceland in depth.
    Duration:
    10 Days
    Prices From:
    US$ 1,850
    Trip Type:
    Active & Adventurous, Classics (Bestsellers), Self-Drives
    Iceland See Trip Details

  • Iceland and the Natural Wonders of Greenland Cruise

    FIRST-CLASS | CRUISE: Cruise along the North Atlantic, exploring the Arctic landscapes of western Iceland and Greenland to discover Viking history and floating icebergs. From the cosmopolitan capital of Reykjavik, board the Seaventure to cross the Denmark Strait to Greenland where you’ll follow in the footsteps of Erik the Red and survey the glaciers, fjords, and Inuit settlements that define this ancient island.
    Duration:
    12 Days
    Prices From:
    US$ 6,495
    Trip Type:
    Cruises & Sailing, Multi Country Vacation Ideas
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  • Iceland Complete: Reykjavik, Akureyri, Hofn & More

    FIRST-CLASS | ESCORTED COACH: On this immersive exploration of Iceland, discover myriad natural wonders as well as the jovial spirit of the Land of Fire and Ice. With fellow travelers in tow, you'll stay in first-class and moderate accommodations, enjoy tasty local meals, and visit a range of remarkably scenic locations, perfect for those with an adventurous spirit.
    Duration:
    10 Days
    Prices From:
    AU$ 5,629
    Trip Type:
    Active & Adventurous, Bucket List Travel Ideas, Escorted Coach Touring, Small Group Touring
    Iceland See Trip Details

  • Hidden Powers & Northern Lights Coach Tour

    MODERATE | ESCORTED COACH TOUR: Explore the natural wonders of Iceland on this coach tour beginning and ending in Reykjavik. During your journey across the island nation, you’ll gaze upon the Golden Waterfall of Gullfoss, explore the area surrounding Eyjafjallajokull Volcano, and venture to the face of Vatnajokull Glacier, all beneath the living northern sky.
    Duration:
    6 Days
    Prices From:
    US$ 1,939
    Trip Type:
    Active & Adventurous, Bucket List Travel Ideas, Escorted Coach Touring
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  • Iceland Circumnavigation Cruise: Stykkisholmur, Isafjordur, Seydisfjordur & More

    FIRST-CLASS | CRUISE: Sailing from Reykjavik aboard the MS Seaventure, witness spectacular scenery while learning about the Land of Fire and Ice. See majestic fjords, cascading waterfalls, mighty glaciers, remote fishing villages, abundant wildlife and active volcanoes.
    Duration:
    9 Days
    Prices From:
    AU$ On Request
    Trip Type:
    Active & Adventurous, Cruises & Sailing
    Iceland See Trip Details

  • Winter Wonders & Delicious Detours Self-Drive: Gullfoss, Jokulsarlon, Snaefellsnes & More

    MODERATE | SELF-DRIVE: The mesmerizing beauty of winter in Iceland is something best experienced at your own pace. With inspiring, breath-taking landscapes throughout the (well connected and maintained) southern corridors, set off in a rental vehicle to explore a few incredible sights including Jokulsarlon glacial lagoon, Skaftafell waterfall, the black sand beaches of Vik and post-card perfect Snaefellsnes National Park.
    Duration:
    7 Days
    Prices From:
    AU$ 2,249
    Trip Type:
    Active & Adventurous, Self-Drives
    Iceland See Trip Details

  • Arctic Iceland Self-Drive: Jokulsarlon, the Eastfjords, Lake Myvatn & More

    MODERATE | SELF-DRIVE: Set off on a true adventure and drive Iceland's incredible Ring Road on this 11-day tour. This independent itinerary lets you move at your own pace and stop off at fabulous sites along the way, including the Golden Circle, Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon, Lake Myvatn, the Snaefellsnes Peninsula and countless others. For intrepid globetrotters looking to explore the Land of Fire & Ice in-depth, this is the perfect trip for you.
    Duration:
    11 Days
    Prices From:
    US$ 2,056
    Trip Type:
    Active & Adventurous, Bucket List Travel Ideas, Self-Drives
    Iceland See Trip Details
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