The Great Round Tour: Around Iceland in 13 Days

Traveling through Iceland’s wild landscapes often feels like flipping through the pages of a geology textbook—only way more breathtaking. The Great Round Tour by Fun Travel Iceland offers a comprehensive 13-day journey that promises to showcase everything from iconic waterfalls and glaciers to off-the-beaten-path fjords and lava fields. This is not your quick sightseeing jaunt; it’s a deep dive into Iceland’s diverse geography, all with a small-group vibe that keeps things personal and flexible.

What we love most about this tour? Its ability to combine major highlights with secret gems, all while maintaining a relaxed pace. Plus, the guides—like Jens Olafsson—are known for their local knowledge and storytelling skills, turning a sightseeing trip into a real Icelandic experience. The only caveat? The price tag of over $7,100 per person might seem steep at first glance, but when you consider the inclusions—accommodation, most meals, and exclusive access—the value becomes clearer.

This tour suits those who crave an in-depth exploration of Iceland without the hassle of planning every detail. Ideal for curious travelers, nature lovers, and adventure seekers who want to see the country’s highlights but also enjoy some quieter, less visited spots.

Key Points

• All-encompassing itinerary covers the entire country, from the Golden Circle to the remote Westfjords.
• Small group size (max 12) offers a more intimate, flexible experience.
• Inclusive package with accommodation, breakfast, and dinner simplifies logistics.
• Expert guides like Jens enhance understanding with storytelling and local insights.
• Authentic experiences such as farm stays and boat tours add a personal touch.
• Value for money when considering the extensive itinerary and inclusions.

An In-Depth Look at the Itinerary

Days 1-3: Reykjavik to the Golden Circle and South Coast

Starting in Reykjavik, the tour kicks off with the classic Golden Circle sights—Þingvellir National Park, where history and geology collide, and Gullfoss, the thundering waterfall that’s a must-see. The highlight here? The way Jens explains Iceland’s geological forces, making it more than just a photo stop.

Moving to the South Coast, you’ll visit Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss, two waterfalls that are practically poster children for Iceland. What’s special about these? The fact that you can walk behind Seljalandsfoss’s curtain of water, and Skógafoss’s relentless cascade, are experiences that make you feel tiny in the face of nature’s power. Reviewers mention the “spectacular waterfalls” and “relaxing farm stays” in this region, which adds a cozy contrast to the rugged scenery.

Further along, the tour takes you to Dyrhólaey and Reynisfjara Beach, where black sands and basalt columns create a landscape that feels alien and timeless. Expect to see puffins and maybe even some seals, depending on the season. This stretch is packed with photo opportunities and awe-inspiring views.

Days 4-6: Glaciers, National Parks, and the East

Skaftafell National Park and Svartifoss are next, famous for their striking basalt formations. The hike to Svartifoss, with its black volcanic columns framing a waterfall, is well worth the effort and often lauded by travelers.

The boat tour around Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon is a major highlight. Reviewers rave about floating among icebergs and the chance to see seals. Jens’s storytelling brings the icy landscape to life, turning it into a place with stories and history, not just frozen water.

Continuing east, the tour ventures into the lesser-traveled Moorudalur Valley at 469 meters above sea level. Staying in the highest inhabited place in Iceland gives a sense of real rural Iceland life, far from tourist crowds. The visit to Hvalnes Lighthouse and Lagarfljót adds a touch of scenic serenity and local charm.

Days 7-9: North Iceland and Westfjords

In the north, Akureyri—Iceland’s second city—offers a break from the wilderness, with free time to explore. The trip then heads into the remote Westfjords, one of Iceland’s most untouched regions, where rugged cliffs and tiny fishing villages await.

Highlights here include Dynjandi, often called Iceland’s most beautiful waterfall, and Latrabjarg bird cliffs, home to thousands of puffins and other seabirds. Reviewers mention the ‘off the beaten path’ nature of these destinations, emphasizing how solitary and pristine the experience feels.

The Western Fjords are a different world, with Raudisandur (Red Sands) and Hvitserkur, the sea-stack that resembles a dragon, providing fantastic photo ops. The experience of exploring these less-visited areas gives travelers a sense of discovery and connection with Iceland’s raw beauty.

Days 10-13: Snæfellsnes Peninsula, Volcanoes, and Return

The journey then swings back west to the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, home to Kirkjufell, arguably Iceland’s most photographed mountain. The nearby Djúpálónsandur basaltic beach offers a different, peaceful landscape.

Finally, a walk around Grabrok Crater and visits to Hraunfossar and Barnafoss waterfalls provide a fitting end—geological marvels that showcase Iceland’s volcanic activity.

The tour concludes with a transfer to Keflavík Airport, making your Icelandic adventure both comprehensive and seamless.

The Experience: What It’s Like to Join

Travelers consistently highlight the knowledgeable guides, especially Jens, whose storytelling enriches each stop. As one reviewer notes, “Jens’s history lessons and folk tales made the experience more meaningful,” elevating simple sightseeing into a culture.

The smaller group size (maximum of 12) ensures that you’re not just another face in a crowd. This offers flexibility in pacing and chances for spontaneous detours, which many travelers cherish. The accommodations—often farm stays or small guesthouses—provide a cozy, authentic feel that counters the grandeur of the scenery.

Transportation is comfortable, and the itinerary is packed but balanced, giving ample time at key sites without feeling rushed. The inclusions—most meals and entrance fees—are designed to minimize surprises, and the boat tour on the glacier lagoon is a standout, offering a unique perspective on Iceland’s icy landscapes.

Value and Cost Consideration

While the tour price of $7,128.74 per person is not cheap, it covers most accommodation, meals, and exclusive experiences like the boat tour. Reviewers feel that the extensive itinerary, combined with expert guidance and authentic accommodations, offers good value for those wanting a full, worry-free Iceland experience.

Potential Drawbacks

The primary consideration? The cost. For budget travelers, this might be a stretch, and those who prefer independent travel will miss the flexibility. Also, the tour operates with a fixed itinerary, which might mean less room for customization. Weather can also impact the experience—a typical risk in Iceland—but Jens and the team are known for adjusting plans when needed.

Who Is This Tour Best Suited For?

This tour is perfect for travelers who want a comprehensive, guided Iceland experience that hits all the major highlights along with some secluded spots. If you love stunning natural scenery, geological wonders, and local storytelling, you’ll find this trip rewarding. It’s especially suited for those comfortable with a reasonably active pace—some hiking and walking are involved—and for travelers who appreciate authentic accommodations and small-group intimacy.

Ideal for:

• Adventure and nature lovers
• First-time visitors wanting a full overview
• Travelers who value guided expertise and local insights
• Those prepared for a longer, immersive trip

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What’s included in the tour cost?
The tour includes all accommodations, most meals (breakfast and dinner), guided tours according to the itinerary, and entrance to the Folk Museum of Skogar and a boat tour on the glacier lagoon.

Are flights to Iceland included?
No, airfare to and from Iceland is not included, so travelers need to arrange their own flights.

How big are the groups?
The tour operates with a maximum of 12 travelers, ensuring a more personal experience and flexibility.

Is this tour suitable for all fitness levels?
The tour requires a moderate physical fitness level, as some hiking and walking are part of the experience.

What should I expect in terms of accommodations?
Most nights are spent in comfortable, often farm-stay style accommodations that showcase Icelandic hospitality and scenic surroundings.

Can the itinerary be changed?
Yes, the operator reserves the right to alter the itinerary due to weather or other conditions outside their control, but Jens and the team are known for their flexibility and experience in managing Iceland’s unpredictable weather.

Final Thoughts

If you’re after a thorough exploration of Iceland, mixing classic sites with hidden gems, this 13-day guided tour offers impressive value. The small group size and knowledgeable guides like Jens ensure you’re not just ticking boxes but truly experiencing Iceland’s soul. The combination of outdoor adventures, cultural insights, and cozy stays make this a memorable way to see the country in its full, untamed glory.

While it’s an investment, it’s one that pays off in both breathtaking sights and stories that stay with you long after the trip ends. Perfect for those who want to see a lot but also appreciate the depth and authenticity that comes with local guides and carefully curated experiences.

Whether you’re ticking Iceland off your bucket list or seeking a deep dive into its wild landscapes, this tour is tailored for explorers who want it all—big sights and small details, adventure and comfort.