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Winter in Iceland
Trip Code: IW07
Countries Experienced: Iceland
Price From: R 23 170
Trip Type : Professional Journey - Independent
Discover the ever-changing beauty of glaciers with opportunities to explore on – and in – ice caps. If you have a week to travel and want to experience the splendour of Icelandic glaciers, this is your trip!
Discover the ever-changing beauty of glaciers with opportunities to explore on – and in – ice caps. If you have a week to travel and want to experience the splendour of Icelandic glaciers, this is your trip!
Winter in Iceland is ideal for experiencing the majesty of glaciers. Experience Vatnajökull glacier’s ever-changing angles and enjoy great photo opportunities. Indulge your inner explorer and take optional tours bringing you onto – and even inside – a glacier! Visit the Golden Circle, the Glacier Lagoon, along with the impressive volcanic and glacial natural wonders of Borgarfjörður and Snæfellsjökull National Park. Overnight in glacial locations with fabulous backdrops for northern lights.
Winter in Iceland is ideal for experiencing the majesty of glaciers. Experience Vatnajökull glacier’s ever-changing angles and enjoy great photo opportunities. Indulge your inner explorer and take optional tours bringing you onto – and even inside – a glacier! Visit the Golden Circle, the Glacier Lagoon, along with the impressive volcanic and glacial natural wonders of Borgarfjörður and Snæfellsjökull National Park. Overnight in glacial locations with fabulous backdrops for northern lights.
Why you will love it
Why you will love it
Explore the hidden treasures of beautiful Borgarfjordur in West Iceland, including views of Langjokull Glacier
Drive along Snaefellsnes Peninsula, famous for its ever-changing landscapes and its glacier-crowned volcano
Visit world-famous areas such as the Golden Circle, the South Shore, the Vatnajokull National Park/the Glacier Lagoon
Enjoy an itinerary that gives you more opportunities to enjoy the beauty of Iceland’s glaciers
Things to consider
Things to consider
Level of comfort: Experience
This is a self- drive independent trip
Accommodation: Hotel (7nts)
Meals included: 7 Breakfast,
Rental car for 7 days with unlimited mileage, CDW, theft protection and VAT
Single supplement available if you would like your own room
Car pick-up/drop-off at Keflavik International Airport
Authorization for two people to drive the rental car during your trip
The Iceland Travel Companion App
Detailed itinerary
Detailed itinerary
Day 1: Arrival and Reykjanes Peninsula
Day 1: Arrival and Reykjanes Peninsula
Approximate distance: 50 km (If you visit Reykjanes on the way: 95 km )
Once you have landed at Keflavík Airport, please pick up your luggage and head through customs. Collect your rental car at the airport and proceed to your hotel. Depending on your arrival time in Iceland, we suggest that you take some time to explore the Reykjanes Peninsula (a UNESCO GeoPark site) before you head to Reykjavík.
Reykjanes is a great introduction to Iceland’s unique geology and volcanoes, and the site of Reykjanes is a great introduction to Iceland’s unique geology and volcanoes and the site of eruptions between 2021 and 2024. You’ll see unusual and stunning features around the peninsula, including craters, lava cliffs, and fissures. We recommend a stroll in the surreal Gunnuhver area where you can view quirky colourful mud pools and steam vents bubbling away.
Reykjanes is also home to the renowned Blue Lagoon, and you might enjoy the chance to relax in the soothing azure waters. Important: admission to the Blue Lagoon needs to be booked in advance. We can help you with that!
Travel to your hotel in Reykjavík and check-in. Please note check-in for most hotels begins at 14:00 – 16:00 (2:00pm-4:00pm)
Overnight in Reykjavik.
More info about the attractions: Reykjavík | Reykjavík City Hall | Laugardalur Park | Harpa Concert Hall | Hallgrímskirkja Church
Day 2: Reykjavik to Borgarfjordur | Whale Fjord – Europe’s Most Powerful Hot Spring – Magical waterfalls
Day 2: Reykjavik to Borgarfjordur | Whale Fjord – Europe’s Most Powerful Hot Spring – Magical waterfalls
Approximate distance: 155 km
Approximate distance: 155 km
Today, head to the scenic Borgarfjörður region via the Hvalfjörður tunnel. If you don’t want to take the tunnel, you can take the scenic coastal road instead (adds additional 17 km to the trip).
Today, head to the scenic Borgarfjörður region via the Hvalfjörður tunnel. If you don’t want to take the tunnel, you can take the scenic coastal road instead (adds additional 17 km to the trip).
On the way, if you’re looking for a uniquely Icelandic hot spring bathing experience you might visit the new Hvammsvik nature area. Though modern, the stone-lined seaside pools evoke the traditional hot spring pools of olden times. You can relax in a variety of warm seawater pools overlooking a scenic landscape.
On the way, if you’re looking for a uniquely Icelandic hot spring bathing experience you might visit the new Hvammsvik nature area. Though modern, the stone-lined seaside pools evoke the traditional hot spring pools of olden times. You can relax in a variety of warm seawater pools overlooking a scenic landscape.
Borgarfjörður is a popular area among locals from Reykjavík, who enjoy coming here for holidays. It’s also getting popular with international visitors for its exotic landscapes and Viking history. We suggest a stop in Borgarnes town where you can learn about the first Viking settlers at the popular Settlement Museum. Visit Deildartunguhver, Europe’s most powerful hot springs, the beautiful Hraunfossar (the Lava Falls), where melted water from a glacier flows through interesting lava formations. Near Deildartunguhver you can indulge in hot spring relaxation at the Krauma natural geothermal baths. Krauma is known for its “fire and ice” experience since it combines Deildartunguhver’s hot spring waters with cool spring water that originates from the mountains.
Borgarfjörður is a popular area among locals from Reykjavík, who enjoy coming here for holidays. It’s also getting popular with international visitors for its exotic landscapes and Viking history. We suggest a stop in Borgarnes town where you can learn about the first Viking settlers at the popular Settlement Museum. Visit Deildartunguhver, Europe’s most powerful hot springs, the beautiful Hraunfossar (the Lava Falls), where melted water from a glacier flows through interesting lava formations. Near Deildartunguhver you can indulge in hot spring relaxation at the Krauma natural geothermal baths. Krauma is known for its “fire and ice” experience since it combines Deildartunguhver’s hot spring waters with cool spring water that originates from the mountains.
Tonight, you are well situated to catch a glimpse of the famous northern lights, if Mother Nature decides to cooperate.
Tonight, you are well situated to catch a glimpse of the famous northern lights, if Mother Nature decides to cooperate.
Overnight in the Borgarfjörður area (2 nights)
Overnight in the Borgarfjörður area (2 nights)
Hvalfjörður Fjord | Borgarnes | Settlement Centre of Iceland | Deildartunguhver Hot Spring | Hraunfossar Waterfalls | Barnafoss Waterfall | Háafell Goat Farm
Day 3: Borgarfjordur | Langjokull Glacier and Icelandic Sagas OR Snaefellsnes and Snaefellsjokull National Park
Day 3: Borgarfjordur | Langjokull Glacier and Icelandic Sagas OR Snaefellsnes and Snaefellsjokull National Park
Approximate distance: varies
Approximate distance: varies
Today you can choose to continue to explore the marvellous Borgarfjörður region, or you can visit the scenic Snæfellnes Peninsula. Each area has something to offer.
Today you can choose to continue to explore the marvellous Borgarfjörður region, or you can visit the scenic Snæfellnes Peninsula. Each area has something to offer.
Borgarfjörður: Here’s a hidden gem glittering with enchanting volcanic scenery, glacial views, and Viking age history. Langjökull glacier offers exciting adventures such as exploring an ice cave and tunnel built into the icy-blue heart of the glacier. Start with an adventurous ride up the glacier in a monstrous 18-wheeled vehicle. Once in the tunnel, you’ll view a glacier from the inside and learn how these icy wonders are formed. Another interesting area activity is a guided visit to the colourful Víðgelmir lava cave. If you are up for an exotic adventure/relaxation experience, try a guided winter hike to the Húsafell Canyon Baths, stone-lined hot pools in the secluded highlands.
Borgarfjörður: Here’s a hidden gem glittering with enchanting volcanic scenery, glacial views, and Viking age history. Langjökull glacier offers exciting adventures such as exploring an ice cave and tunnel built into the icy-blue heart of the glacier. Start with an adventurous ride up the glacier in a monstrous 18-wheeled vehicle. Once in the tunnel, you’ll view a glacier from the inside and learn how these icy wonders are formed. Another interesting area activity is a guided visit to the colourful Víðgelmir lava cave. If you are up for an exotic adventure/relaxation experience, try a guided winter hike to the Húsafell Canyon Baths, stone-lined hot pools in the secluded highlands.
Snæfellsnes: This peninsula is known as “Iceland in a Nutshell” because it contains so many distinct types of Icelandic landscape in one location. Give yourself an early start since there is so much you can see in this beautiful area. We recommend you stop at the wind tangled Arnarstapi sea cliffs and the rocky beach of Djúpalónssandur. The beautiful Snæfellsjökull glacier-volcano is the crown jewel of the peninsula. Legends say that the mountain is home to a benevolent half-troll guardian. Drive along the north coast through bustling fishing villages, stopping to look at Kirkjufell, the most photographed mountain in the country.
Snæfellsnes: This peninsula is known as “Iceland in a Nutshell” because it contains so many distinct types of Icelandic landscape in one location. Give yourself an early start since there is so much you can see in this beautiful area. We recommend you stop at the wind tangled Arnarstapi sea cliffs and the rocky beach of Djúpalónssandur. The beautiful Snæfellsjökull glacier-volcano is the crown jewel of the peninsula. Legends say that the mountain is home to a benevolent half-troll guardian. Drive along the north coast through bustling fishing villages, stopping to look at Kirkjufell, the most photographed mountain in the country.
Overnight in the Borgarfjörður area.
Overnight in the Borgarfjörður area.
Snorrastofa Medieval Centre | Húsafell | Viðgelmir Cave
Day 4: The Golden Circle | National Park with Geological Wonders – The Golden Falls – Spouting Geysers
Day 4: The Golden Circle | National Park with Geological Wonders – The Golden Falls – Spouting Geysers
Approximate distance: 200 km
Approximate distance: 200 km
Today you’ll be visiting some of Iceland’s best-known national wonders! Head for the UNESCO-listed Thingvellir National Park, where the world's oldest parliament met for centuries on the shores of Iceland’s largest lake. This is also the meeting point of the tectonic plates that divide the North American and European continents, giving you the rare chance to take a walk between two continents. Visit the quirky geothermal fields of Geysir. Stroll along a footpath around colorful bubbling mud pools and spouting geysers. The most famous of these is Strokkur, which erupts about every ten minutes. Then visit the dramatic, two-tiered Gullfoss waterfall, a spectacular sight in winter when frozen mid-cascade.
Today you’ll be visiting some of Iceland’s best-known national wonders! Head for the UNESCO-listed Thingvellir National Park, where the world's oldest parliament met for centuries on the shores of Iceland’s largest lake. This is also the meeting point of the tectonic plates that divide the North American and European continents, giving you the rare chance to take a walk between two continents. Visit the quirky geothermal fields of Geysir. Stroll along a footpath around colorful bubbling mud pools and spouting geysers. The most famous of these is Strokkur, which erupts about every ten minutes. Then visit the dramatic, two-tiered Gullfoss waterfall, a spectacular sight in winter when frozen mid-cascade.
Afterwards drive along winter country roads to your overnight in South Iceland. If nature co-operates, you might glimpse some northern lights!
Afterwards drive along winter country roads to your overnight in South Iceland. If nature co-operates, you might glimpse some northern lights!
Travel idea: The Golden Circle area is full of hot springs, and there are two great local favorite bathing pools. Laugarvatn Fontana is built on top of a hot spring, and its steam baths are good for your skin and joints. The Secret Lagoon is a lovely historical stone-lined natural geothermal pool with its own tiny geyser nearby. We’re happy to book a visit for you.
Travel idea: The Golden Circle area is full of hot springs, and there are two great local favorite bathing pools. Laugarvatn Fontana is built on top of a hot spring, and its steam baths are good for your skin and joints. The Secret Lagoon is a lovely historical stone-lined natural geothermal pool with its own tiny geyser nearby. We’re happy to book a visit for you.
Overnight in the Hella or Hvollsvollur area.
Overnight in the Hella or Hvollsvollur area.
Þingvellir National Park | Geysir Hot Spring | Gullfoss Waterfall | Laugarvatn Fontana Geothermal
Day 5: Waterfalls and Glacial Horizons | Thundering Waterfall – Black Sand Beaches – Sea Cliffs & Stone Arches
Day 5: Waterfalls and Glacial Horizons | Thundering Waterfall – Black Sand Beaches – Sea Cliffs & Stone Arches
Approximate distance: 180 km
Approximate distance: 180 km
Travel along the south coast, one of Iceland’s main farming areas. You’ll see many farms and shaggy haired herds of Icelandic horses as you head along the Ring Road. See the magnificent waterfall Skogafoss, site of hidden treasure. (Make sure you have your camera ready- Skogafoss makes a fantastic backdrop for a selfie). Nearby is Skogar Folk Museum, well known throughout Iceland for being the best of its kind with a collection of mementos from this region’s past housed in beautifully preserved old turf-roofed buildings. Make a stop in pretty Vik village. Nearby you can admire stunning views of a black sand beach and the black basalt columns of Reynisdrangar.
Travel along the south coast, one of Iceland’s main farming areas. You’ll see many farms and shaggy haired herds of Icelandic horses as you head along the Ring Road. See the magnificent waterfall Skogafoss, site of hidden treasure. (Make sure you have your camera ready- Skogafoss makes a fantastic backdrop for a selfie). Nearby is Skogar Folk Museum, well known throughout Iceland for being the best of its kind with a collection of mementos from this region’s past housed in beautifully preserved old turf-roofed buildings. Make a stop in pretty Vik village. Nearby you can admire stunning views of a black sand beach and the black basalt columns of Reynisdrangar.
You’ll also see glaciers from the road, including Myrdalsjokull and Europe’s largest glacier, Vatnajokull. The road leads alongside Vatnajokull as you head to your overnight in Southeast Iceland.
You’ll also see glaciers from the road, including Myrdalsjokull and Europe’s largest glacier, Vatnajokull. The road leads alongside Vatnajokull as you head to your overnight in Southeast Iceland.
Overnight in the Kirkjubæjarklaustur area.
Overnight in the Kirkjubæjarklaustur area.
Eyjafjallajökull Glacier | Skógafoss Waterfall | Skógar Museum | Reynisdrangar Cliffs | Vík í Mýrdal | Höfn
Day 6: Glacial Wonders |Vatnajökull Glacier – Glacial National Park – Iceberg Lagoon
Day 6: Glacial Wonders |Vatnajökull Glacier – Glacial National Park – Iceberg Lagoon
Approximate distance: 250 km
Approximate distance: 250 km
Today is perfect for exploring glacial wonders in Vatnajokull National Park, Western Europe's largest national park. Start with a visit to Jokulsarlon Glacial Lagoon, where blue, white, turquoise, and black-streaked icebergs shift and dance. The mystical lagoon is enormous and has been the backdrop for many major feature films and programs. It is a special place for photographers who enjoy the challenge of catching the icebergs in just the right light conditions. If you want a different glacial lagoon photography experience, the Fjallsarlon Iceberg Lagoon is beautiful and often has fewer visitors.
Today is perfect for exploring glacial wonders in Vatnajokull National Park, Western Europe's largest national park. Start with a visit to Jokulsarlon Glacial Lagoon, where blue, white, turquoise, and black-streaked icebergs shift and dance. The mystical lagoon is enormous and has been the backdrop for many major feature films and programs. It is a special place for photographers who enjoy the challenge of catching the icebergs in just the right light conditions. If you want a different glacial lagoon photography experience, the Fjallsarlon Iceberg Lagoon is beautiful and often has fewer visitors.
Nearby is the Diamond Beach, an area where icebergs rest on black sand. It has become a famous site for Instagrammers.
Nearby is the Diamond Beach, an area where icebergs rest on black sand. It has become a famous site for Instagrammers.
Visit Vatnajokull National Park’s majestic Skaftafell area, which is located between two glaciers and offers several winter hiking possibilities. Depending on your schedule, Skaftafell is an excellent place to try a guided hike on a glacier. There are few better ways to really get close to a glacier and learn about their formation.
Visit Vatnajokull National Park’s majestic Skaftafell area, which is located between two glaciers and offers several winter hiking possibilities. Depending on your schedule, Skaftafell is an excellent place to try a guided hike on a glacier. There are few better ways to really get close to a glacier and learn about their formation.
Overnight in the Kirkjubaejarklaustur area.
Overnight in the Kirkjubaejarklaustur area.
Vatnajökull Glacier | Vatnajökull National Park | Jökulsárlón Glacial Lagoon | Skaftafell Area (Vatnajökull National Park)
Day 7: South Coast – Reykjavik | Amazing Waterfall – Volcanic View – Geothermal Village
Day 7: South Coast – Reykjavik | Amazing Waterfall – Volcanic View – Geothermal Village
Approximate distance: 265 km
Approximate distance: 265 km
Drive along the scenic south coast back to the west. Visit Seljalandsfoss, a waterfall that you can walk behind (subject to trail conditions). You’ll also be passing through landscapes impacted by Eyjafjallajokull volcano, famous for its 2010 eruption. If the skies are clear, you might even get a glimpse of the glacier-crowned volcano.
Drive along the scenic south coast back to the west. Visit Seljalandsfoss, a waterfall that you can walk behind (subject to trail conditions). You’ll also be passing through landscapes impacted by Eyjafjallajokull volcano, famous for its 2010 eruption. If the skies are clear, you might even get a glimpse of the glacier-crowned volcano.
The Bobby Fischer Center in Selfoss is dedicated to the world-famous American chess master who defeated Russian Boris Spatsky in the 1972 Match of All Time in Iceland. Bobby Fischer lived his last years in Iceland and is buried in a nearby cemetery. (During the winter, you can call in advance to make an appointment to visit the museum).
The Bobby Fischer Center in Selfoss is dedicated to the world-famous American chess master who defeated Russian Boris Spatsky in the 1972 Match of All Time in Iceland. Bobby Fischer lived his last years in Iceland and is buried in a nearby cemetery. (During the winter, you can call in advance to make an appointment to visit the museum).
The town of Hveragerdi is great to take a break and enjoy the peaceful village atmosphere. Hveragerdi is famous for its geothermal greenhouses where flowers and vegetables are grown year-round. The town has several charming restaurants featuring local cuisine, as well as a small geothermal park.
The town of Hveragerdi is great to take a break and enjoy the peaceful village atmosphere. Hveragerdi is famous for its geothermal greenhouses where flowers and vegetables are grown year-round. The town has several charming restaurants featuring local cuisine, as well as a small geothermal park.
Return to Reykjavik in the late afternoon/early evening.
Return to Reykjavik in the late afternoon/early evening.
Overnight in Reykjavík.
Overnight in Reykjavík.
Seljalandsfoss Waterfall | Selfoss | Hveragerði | Hellisheiði Geothermal Plant | Eyrarbakki
Day 8: Departure from Iceland
Day 8: Departure from Iceland
Return to Keflavik International Airport
Return to Keflavik International Airport
Approximate distance: 50 km
Approximate distance: 50 km
Drive back to Keflavik International Airport**. We recommend departing from your hotel in Reykjavik no later than at least 3 hours before your flight departure. It takes approximately 1 hour to drive to the airport, and the check-in will start 2 hours before your departure.
Drive back to Keflavik International Airport**. We recommend departing from your hotel in Reykjavik no later than at least 3 hours before your flight departure. It takes approximately 1 hour to drive to the airport, and the check-in will start 2 hours before your departure.
If you did not visit the Blue Lagoon earlier but have some free time today, you might want to use the opportunity en route to the airport. For this detour, please be sure to allow for at least 2-2,5 hours extra so you’ll have ample time at the lagoon.
If you did not visit the Blue Lagoon earlier but have some free time today, you might want to use the opportunity en route to the airport. For this detour, please be sure to allow for at least 2-2,5 hours extra so you’ll have ample time at the lagoon.
Optional Tours tours for an exceptional experience:
Optional Tours tours for an exceptional experience:
Into the Glacier – Classic Tour (from Húsafell)
Whale Watching from Ólafsvík village
Vatnshellir Caving (from Snæfellsnes Peninsula)
Silfra Snorkelling (Meet on Location)
Black Sand Beach & Plane Wreck ATV Tour
Snowmobiling on Mýrdalsjökull Glacier (from Basecamp)
Glacier Wonders – Glacier Hike in Skaftafell
Crystal Ice Cave Tour from Skaftafell National Park
Snowmobiling on Mýrdalsjökull Glacier (from Basecamp)
Pre- book bundles for great saving on activities:
Pre- book bundles for great saving on activities:
The Wellness Seeker
The Wellness Seeker
Interested in soaking in hot springs? This is your ticket to enjoy the best hot spring bathing in South and West Iceland and in Reykjavik! You’ll save time by pre- booking and add some extra fun and memories to your trip! The Wellness Seeker Activity Bundle lets you relax in three great places!
Krauma Natural Geothermal Spa in West Iceland (includes bathing fee and towel rental)
Sky Lagoon in the Reykjavik area (includes bathing fee and towel rental)
Fontana Geothermal Steam Baths in Laugarvatn, South Iceland (includes bathing fee and towel rental)
Price: EUR 230 pp
The Adventurer
The Adventurer
If your interest is outdoor fun, this bundle is perfect! In this optional collection of selected activities in South Iceland you will enjoy:
Meet us at Gullfoss – Snowmobiling on Langjökull glacier (includes 1 hr snowmobile tour (2 pers. per snowmobile), all safety equipment necessary, return super jeep transfer from base)
Glacier Wonders hike on Solheimajokull Glacier (includes guided tour, glacier gear and safety equipment. 2,5 hours with 1 – 1.5 hours on the glacier)
Price: EUR 308 pp
Included in the Tour Price
Included in the Tour Price
Accommodation in your standard of choice room for 7 nights
Icelandic-style breakfast (except arrival day)
Rental car for 7 days with unlimited mileage, CDW, theft protection and VAT
Free in-car unlimited Wi-Fi to help you navigate with your personal mobile device
Car pick-up/drop-off at Keflavík International Airport
Authorisation for two people to drive the rental car during your trip
Our Iceland Travel App
Kolviður carbon offsetting
Customer care service during office hours
24-hour Iceland Travel emergency line assistance while you are in Iceland
Service fee and taxes
Not Included in the Tour Price
Not Included in the Tour Price
Breakfast on arrival day
International airfare
Personal travel insurance (highly recommended)
Petrol/Gasoline
Tolls (tunnels, roads, and other route tolls), unless specified. More information
Admissions and activities other than those noted in the itinerary
Beverages, snacks, lunches, dinners unless otherwise noted in the itinerary
Guaranteed early check-in (check-in time for most hotels in Iceland starts 14:00 (2:00pm) – 16:00 (4:00pm)
Guaranteed late check-out
Any service not specifically listed under “Included
Accommodation
Accommodation
Quality is an important factor for us. When organizing our tours we choose accommodation with regards to quality, value for money, location and service provided. We can only confirm your specific hotel once a booking is done, as it is subject to availability.
Comfort:
Our comfort self-drives offer you the chance to travel around Iceland in a carefree spirit, staying in accommodation with private facilities without stretching your budget. During your stay you’ll be located in a combination of standard hotels, farmhouses, and guesthouses.
– Private facilities
– Standard rooms in Comfort hotels, guesthouses, and farmhouse accommodation
Quality:
Our quality self-drive holidays allow you to spend your days exploring rural Iceland, knowing your nights will be spent in comfortable accommodation in each area.
Throughout the tour you’ll stay in quality guesthouses and hotels.
– Private facilities
– Standard rooms in Quality hotels, guesthouses, and farmhouse accommodation
– Superior rooms in comfort hotels and guesthouses
Superior:
Upgrade your stay to a superior room in quality or superior hotels.
– Not available in every location
We have various options to extend your Iceland adventure.
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