6-Day Summer Ring Route of Iceland Small-Group Tour

If you’re looking to see Iceland’s most iconic sights without the hassle of driving or planning every detail, this 6-day small-group tour by Troll Expeditions might just be your best bet. With a stellar rating of 5.0 from 68 reviews and a 97% recommendation rate, it clearly strikes a chord with travelers eager to explore Iceland’s wild beauty. This tour packs in waterfalls, glaciers, geothermal areas, and charming towns, all while offering the chance to relax and enjoy the scenery comfortably.

One of the things we love most about this experience is its well-curated itinerary that hits all the major highlights—Thingvellir, Gullfoss, Jökulsárlón, Myvatn, and Akureyri—but also includes some unique extras like an ice cave and optional whale watching. Plus, the small-group setting (max 18 travelers) ensures more personalized attention and a more intimate experience. That said, a potential consideration is the strict cancellation policy—if weather turns sour, plans might change, so flexibility is key. This tour is ideal for travelers who want a comprehensive, hassle-free Iceland trip with knowledgeable guides and plenty of authentic experiences.

Key Points

• All-inclusive highlights: Glacier hikes, boat rides, ice caves, and whale watching included
• Comfortable logistics: Pickup, WiFi on board, small group size for personalized attention
• Diverse landscapes: Waterfalls, black sand beaches, geothermal zones, and glaciers
• Flexibility for extras: Option to add horseback riding, baths, and other activities
• Ideal for busy travelers: Covers top sites efficiently in six days
• Authentic insights: Guides are praised for their knowledge and communication

The Itinerary in Detail

Day 1: The Historic and Geothermal Heart of Iceland

Your adventure kicks off at Thingvellir National Park, a site of both geological and cultural significance. Here, you’ll get a 30-minute visit to walk between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates—an experience that’s as educational as it is visually striking. Guests have noted how guides like Hinrik make the history and geology come alive, sharing insights that elevate the experience beyond just sightseeing.

Next on the list is the Geysir geothermal area, famous for its erupting hot springs. The 30-minute stop gives plenty of time to watch Strokkur spout water every few minutes—a truly mesmerizing display of Iceland’s geothermal power. Visitors appreciate the free, no-cost access to this natural wonder, making it a good value addition.

The day wraps with a visit to Gullfoss, one of Iceland’s most powerful waterfalls. Standing before the roaring cascade, you’ll understand why it’s often called the “Golden Waterfall.” Reviewers often highlight the accessibility and the awe-inspiring view, with some noting it’s an ideal spot for photos.

Day 2: Waterfalls, Black Sand Beaches, and Ice Caves

Day two is packed with diverse scenery from waterfalls to volcanic beaches. The morning begins with Seljalandsfoss, a waterfall you can walk behind—an unforgettable experience that truly makes you feel like you’re part of the landscape. The Skogafoss waterfall follows, known for its thunderous spray and rainbows on sunny days. Both stops include 30-minute visits, giving you enough time to soak in the views and snap photos.

Next, you’ll visit Reynisfjara, a black sand beach famous for its basalt columns and roaring Atlantic waves. Reviewers often mention the striking contrast of the black sands against the white surf—truly a photographer’s paradise.

One of the tour’s standout features is the Katla Ice Cave, included in the price. It’s a 3-hour excursion that transports you to another world—glittering ice formations, mysterious tunnels, and a surreal blue glow. Many travelers describe it as “feeling like on another planet,” and guides like Hinrik are praised for their safety instructions and storytelling.

The day ends with a visit to Dyrholaey, a small island with a lighthouse and stunning vistas, perfect for spotting puffins and enjoying panoramic views of the coast.

Day 3: Glaciers and Icebergs

Day three explores the Skaftafell National Park, where a glacier hike on the Vatnajökull glacier awaits. With safety gear provided, this activity lets you walk on Europe’s largest ice cap—an incredible feeling of scale and power. Reviewers like Deanna raved about feeling “completely safe” thanks to Hinrik’s guidance during glacier hikes, even in challenging conditions.

Following the hike, you’ll visit Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon, where icebergs drift serenely, creating a surreal, floating landscape. A boat tour among the icebergs is included, adding a sense of adventure and a closer look at the glacial sculpture. Nearby, Diamond Beach offers a chance to see ice chunks washed ashore on black sands—an iconic Icelandic scene.

Day 4: The East Fjords and Cultural Stops

Day four takes you eastward to Lagarfljot Lake, often compared with Loch Ness for its legendary monster stories. The next stop is Eggin i Gledivik, an outdoor art installation by Sigurdur Gudmundsson, featuring giant eggs symbolizing fertility and renewal. Reviewers find it to be a quirky and memorable spot.

For a taste of local culture, an optional horseback ride at Finnsstaðir Horse Rental is available—perfect for those wanting a hands-on connection with Icelandic horses. You can also relax at Vök Baths, where soaking in thermal waters amid scenic surroundings offers a peaceful break, though this requires adding it as an extra.

Day 5: The Myvatn Region and Waterfalls

Day five is dedicated to the Myvatn area, renowned for geothermal activity and diverse volcanic landscapes. Highlights include the Dimmuborgir Lava Formations, a maze of volcanic crags, and Námaskarð, a geothermal area with bubbling mud pots and steaming vents.

Most travelers find the visit to Dettifoss, Europe’s most powerful waterfall, a highlight—its raw force and roaring sound are unforgettable. The day ends with a visit to Godafoss, often called the “Waterfall of the Gods,” for its stunning semi-circular shape and history.

Day 6: Small Town Charm and Whale Watching

The tour concludes with a visit to Akureyri, Iceland’s second-largest town, known for its charming streets and botanical gardens. It’s a relaxed way to soak in some local flavor before heading to Hauganes for an optional whale watching tour. Reviewers mention the experience as “absolutely worth it,” with reports of sightings of minke whales, dolphins, and orcas.

What Sets This Tour Apart?

This tour excels in balance and value. You get to see top Iceland sights with guided commentary, which enriches your understanding of the landscape and history. The inclusion of unique activities like the ice cave and boat tour adds an extra layer of adventure most travelers would find difficult to organize independently.

The small-group format offers a more personalized experience, with guides like Hinrik praised for their knowledge and communication skills. With WiFi onboard, you can stay connected and share your stunning sights as you go.

Pricing at $2,535.27 per person might seem high initially, but considering the included activities, accommodations, and transportation, it offers good value—especially when you factor in the costs of individual excursions such as ice caves and boat rides.

Practical Considerations

A key element for many travelers is convenience. The tour handles transportation, accommodation, and even some meals (breakfasts are included), freeing you from planning logistics. However, you should budget extra for lunches, dinners, and optional activities like horseback riding or the Vök Baths.

The tour runs in summer, with most bookings made around 131 days in advance, highlighting its popularity. Also, note the strict cancellation policy—full refunds are available if canceled at least 24 hours prior, but plans can’t be easily changed close to the date.

Transportation and Group Size

Traveling in a comfortable minibus with a maximum of 18 guests means more space and less crowding. The timed stops are well spaced, giving you enough time to explore without feeling rushed.

What Do Travelers Love?

• The guides’ expertise, with Hinrik being a standout for his safety and storytelling
• The stunning scenery of waterfalls, glaciers, and volcanic landscapes
• The inclusion of exclusive experiences like ice caves and boat rides
• The small-group atmosphere that fosters camaraderie and personalized attention

Potential Drawbacks

Some reviews mention the possibility of sharing bathrooms on the fifth night during high tourism season, which might be a consideration for very comfort-oriented travelers. Also, weather relies on Iceland’s fickle nature, and some activities, like glacier hikes, could be affected by conditions—flexibility is advised.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This 6-day Iceland tour is perfect if you want a rundown of the country’s highlights without the stress of self-driving or planning every detail. It caters well to adventure seekers eager for glacier hikes, ice caves, and whale watching, as well as travelers who appreciate guided expert insights.

Those with a limited timeframe will appreciate how efficiently this tour covers Iceland’s diverse landscapes. It’s also suited for small groups who prefer a more intimate experience, with the added comfort of WiFi and included activities.

If you’re seeking authentic, scenic, and memorable experiences with good value and minimal hassle, this tour ticks all the boxes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation included?
Yes, transportation is included in the form of a comfortable minibus, and WiFi is available onboard for most of the journey.

What activities are included in the price?
The tour includes glacier hikes with safety equipment, a boat tour in Jökulsárlón, a visit to an ice cave, and a whale watching tour from Hauganes.

Are meals included?
Breakfasts are included for five mornings. Lunch and dinner are not included, so you’ll need to budget extra for those.

Can I add extra activities?
Yes, options like horseback riding, soaking in Vök Baths, and additional tours are available at extra cost—just contact the tour operator.

How large are the groups?
Groups are limited to 18 travelers, ensuring a more personalized experience.

What happens in bad weather?
Most activities are weather-dependent. If plans are canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered alternative dates or a full refund.

Final Thoughts

This 6-day Summer Ring Route tour offers a rich, well-balanced snapshot of Iceland’s natural highlights, blending guided expertise with adventure and comfort. It’s an excellent choice for small groups seeking a hassle-free, immersive experience that covers everything from waterfalls and glaciers to geothermal areas and cultural stops.

Travelers who value authentic encounters—like ice caves and whale watching—will find plenty to love. The inclusion of expert guides and carefully selected highlights ensures you get both a scenic and educational journey.

While it requires a bit of flexibility regarding weather and additional expenses for meals or optional activities, the overall value and experience make this tour a compelling way to see Iceland in just six days. Perfect for those eager to tick off Iceland’s top sights without the stress of logistical planning, this tour promises a memorable, scenic adventure that captures the essence of Iceland’s rugged beauty.