Embark on our 4-day Ice Cave, Northern Lights & Golden Circle Tour, meticulously crafted to showcase Iceland’s top attractions. Tailored to make the most of daylight and offer prime Northern Lights viewing opportunities, this luxury Iceland itinerary balances adventure with relaxation, ideal for those with limited time.
The proposed itinerary spans a total of 4 days. However, this can be tailored to your timeframe. Arrival and departure days, as well as any additional days, will be meticulously planned by our Travel Experts to ensure a seamless experience. We also recommend allocating at least one full day in Reykjavík before or after your tour to explore the vibrant city and its surroundings.
Day 1 | Explore the South Coast Sights
Our journey begins with a scenic drive along Iceland’s captivating south coast, dotted with breathtaking stops. Marvel at the majestic Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss waterfalls before exploring the unique Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach.
Next, we continue our drive further east, where we’ll soon start to see the spectacular glaciers and Iceland’s highest mountains. Tonight, we’ll unwind at our preferred accommodation options in the south-east. The dinner at the hotel showcases traditional Icelandic meals using local produce. The luxury Iceland hotels in this area are perfectly located to catch the Northern Lights on a clear winter’s night right from your accommodation!
During your private tour, while staying outside the city, your guide will lead you on a Northern Lights hunt on one evening. By monitoring the forecast and conditions, they will choose the best night for this magical experience. Depending on the conditions, you may drive to an optimal viewing spot or simply step outside your hotel to witness the aurora. Your guide will provide expert tips on how to spot this natural wonder.
Where do we stay? We stay at Hótel Glacier Lagoon, Fosshotel Glacier Lagoon on our first night of the tour (or equivalent).
Day 2 | Glacier Adventures within Vatnajökull National Park
Today, immerse yourself in the icy wonders of Vatnajökull National Park as part of our luxury ice cave tour. We will be joining our partners in the area for the true highlight of the tour, the Ice Cave & Super Jeep Adventure. Together, we’ll go on an unforgettable journey to the more remote parts of the glacier in one of their specialised super jeeps. This unforgettable experience is the essence of a luxury ice cave tour, remote, exclusive, and led by expert glacial guides. From the super jeep we put on our crampons and head on to explore the blues, textures and the inner workings of the glacier in one of the ice caves. This is a must-do experience for anyone seeking the ultimate ice cave tour in Iceland.
Later, we will come back to Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon, and spend the remaining daylight hours here. Watching the giant icebergs float around at twilight, and wash up on the black shores of Diamond Beach. Today is the most adventurous day, but is also the most rewarding. Especially with the views of the surrounding area from the glaciers.
Looking to customize this day? Customize your adventure with optional ice cave tours, ranging from the moderate 4-hour ice cave tour, to the adventurous 6-hour ice cave discovery tour. The options don’t end here, as unquestionably the most special upgrade is a helicopter ice cave tour. Fly away to even more remote ice caves in the area, referred to as the Blue Dragon Ice Cave. You can find out more in our glacier and ice cave guide.
Where do we stay? We will spend another night at the same hotel in the area.
Day 3 | South Coast Half Day with Optional activities
After yesterday’s epic adventures, let’s take it easy today. We’ll begin our journey back west, stopping at scenic spots along the way, before reaching the picturesque town of Vík in time for lunch. For those looking to unwind, Vík offers the opportunity to explore or shop for souvenirs. Our hotel for the night is just a short drive away, allowing you to relax and reminisce over the memories captured in the past couple of days.
Relax or recharge, but today we have a few options for those craving more adventure! Kindly note that during winter, only one of the options below is feasible during daylight hours. However, if you have additional days, there is no problem including multiple activities.
- Feel the heat at the Icelandic Lava Show in Vík. Here you’ll get to listen to locals share tales of past eruptions’ as they pour re-melted lava over ice, mimicking the eruptions in the area. This family-friendly experience is perfect for a chilly day.
- Embark on a horse ride on the famous Icelandic horse, renowned for its smooth 5th gait. The friendly Icelandic horse offers a unique perspective of Iceland’s hidden landscapes, away from the beaten path.
- Enjoy an exhilarating ATV tour through rivers and remote wilderness, for an adrenaline-fuelled adventure.
Where do we stay? Choose from various options in the area, including Skálakot Luxury Manor or the pristine Hotel UMI (or equivalent), based on your preference.
Day 4 | Golden Circle Tour
On our final day on our Ice Cave, Northern Lights & Golden Circle tour, we get to discover the wonders of the Golden Circle. Witnessing the power of Gullfoss waterfall, marvel at the geothermal wonders of Geysir, and indulge in a unique dining experience at Friðheimar Tomato Greenhouse. The day concludes by exploring the historic Þingvellir National Park before coming into the city, just in time for dinner.
Where do we stay? Tonight, the choice is yours: journey onward to the renowned Blue Lagoon for a luxurious two-night stay at the 4-star Silica Lagoon or the 5-star The Retreat. Alternatively, opt for an evening of exploration in Reykjavík, where you can immerse yourself in the vibrant culture and culinary delights of Iceland’s capital city.
Ice Cave, Northern Lights & Golden Circle Tour Highlights
|
OPERATES |
DURATION 4 days, 3 nights exclusive of arrival & departure days |
MINIMUM AGE 10 years old (ice cave) This can be modified |
| LEVEL OF DIFFICULTY Easy — moderate This can be modified |
STARTING POINT |
END POINT |
| Inclusions • Accommodation with breakfast all mornings • Activities as listed in the proposed itinerary • Private transportation with Wi-Fi • Led by one of our guides for the duration of the tour |
Exclusions • International flights • Meals unless otherwise specified |
Accommodation options
Premium: Primarily 4-star hotels, offering high-quality amenities and services, comfortable and stylish rooms, and excellent locations with easy access to attractions.
Luxury: Combination of 4-star and 5-star hotels and lodges, providing superior amenities and exceptional service, elegant and spacious rooms, and often feature on-site fine dining and wellness facilities.
Exclusive accommodation & private lodges: Exclusively 5-star hotels and private lodges, offering unmatched luxury and personalised service, luxurious suites and private accommodations, with top-tier amenities including private pools, spas, and gourmet dining options.
Ready to begin planning your dream Icelandic adventure?
Discover the magic of Iceland with our Golden Circle and luxury ice cave tour experiences in this once-in-a-lifetime trip.
