Reykjavik: 8-Day Small Group Circle of Iceland Tour

Travelers craving an immersive journey through Iceland’s most iconic sights will find this 8-day small group tour from Reykjavik a compelling choice. Covering the Golden Circle, waterfalls, glaciers, black sand beaches, geothermal areas, and even the chance to spot the Northern Lights, this tour offers a well-rounded taste of Iceland’s natural wonders. With a maximum of 18 participants, it feels intimate enough to foster genuine connections while still enjoying the benefits of expert guiding.

One thing we especially love about this experience is the expert guidance — guides like Axel, Hinrik, and John aren’t just knowledgeable but passionate about sharing their love for Iceland. It makes a huge difference when your guide is keen to find the best vistas or share intriguing stories about local culture. However, a possible consideration is the itinerary’s flexibility; weather and other factors can sometimes shuffle the order of stops, which might impact those with specific plans or time constraints.

This tour perfectly suits travelers who are eager to see a wide swath of Iceland’s highlights without the hassle of planning every detail themselves. It’s especially ideal for first-timers seeking a comprehensive, yet manageable introduction to this rugged land.

Key Points

• Small Group Comfort: Limited to 18 people for a more personalized experience
• Diverse Landscapes: From waterfalls and volcanoes to glaciers and black sand beaches
• Expert Guides: Passionate and knowledgeable, adding value with stories and extra stops
• Authentic Experiences: Ice caves, glacier hikes, whale watching, and northern lights
• Accommodation & Meals: 7 nights in cozy countryside inns with breakfast included
• Flexibility & Convenience: Pickup in Reykjavik, free WiFi on the bus, all taxes included

The Richness of the Itinerary

This tour is designed to take you through Iceland’s highlights while providing insight and authentic encounters. We’ll start with the Golden Circle, a classic route that reveals some of Iceland’s most famous natural attractions. Standing before the mighty Gullfoss Waterfall and witnessing the erupting Geysir is a stirring experience, especially with guides like Axel, who shared fascinating details about Iceland’s geothermal activity. The Þingvellir National Park offers not only scenic beauty but also a glimpse into Iceland’s historical significance.

On Day 2, the focus shifts to the south coast, where you’ll marvel at Skogafoss and Seljalandsfoss waterfalls. Reviewers like Lau mentioned how their guides “made sure we had some little extra stops with vistas,” enhancing the scenic experience, and allowing plenty of opportunities for photos. Walking behind Seljalandsfoss gives a genuinely immersive feel, with spray and mist creating the perfect mood for a memorable shot.

The journey continues to the Reynisfjara black sand beach, famous for its striking basalt columns and roaring Atlantic waves. This stop is often highlighted as a favorite — the contrast of black sands against the white surf makes for dramatic scenery that you’ll find hard to forget. The day wraps up with a glacier hike, offering that sense of adventure that many travelers seek.

Day 3 sees the exploration of Skaftafell National Park, where the contrast of white ice sheets against dark volcanic sands creates a surreal landscape. The Ice Cave tour is a standout — a chance to walk through genuinely otherworldly formations. As Chuah noted, despite the unpredictable weather and some guides falling ill, guides like Hinrik managed to keep the group safe and engaged, making the experience a success even under less-than-ideal conditions.

The afternoon is spent at Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon, where floating icebergs provide fantastic photo opportunities. The chance to see ice blocks up close and possibly spot seals adds to the magic. Many guests reported that this was a highlight, with the chance to witness the Northern Lights in the evening—an elusive but unforgettable treat.

The Eastern Fjords and Beyond

On Day 4, the tour ventures into the East Fjords, a less frequented but breathtaking part of Iceland. Traveling in a small group allows for more in-depth exploration and wildlife spotting, including the possibility of seeing wild reindeer—a rare sight. The route along Lake Lagarfljót, famed for its legendary monster, introduces travelers to Icelandic folklore and local life.

Overnight stays in cozy villages like the one near Lake Mývatn allow travelers to experience authentic rural Icelandic culture. Here, the geological marvels continue with visits to Dimmuborgir lava pillars and the bubbling activity at Námaskarð Pass. These geothermal regions are fascinating, and the guides’ storytelling helps make sense of these eerie, steaming landscapes.

North Iceland and the Saga Trail

Day 6 offers a slower pace, with time to explore the charming Húsavík area and even go whale watching with Hauganes. Many reviews speak highly of this experience, emphasizing the professionalism of the guides and the thrill of spotting whales in their natural habitat. The tour also includes visits to the farms of the region and some free time in Borgarnes to soak in local atmosphere.

In North Iceland, you’ll also get a chance to visit Reykholt, where famed medieval poet Snorri Sturluson once lived. The blend of natural beauty and historical sites makes this part of the trip especially enriching.

The Snæfellsnes Peninsula & Final Adventures

On Day 8, the tour explores the stunning Snæfellsjökull Glacier. This region offers some of Iceland’s most iconic landscapes, with dramatic cliffs, lava fields, and the glacier itself. For those curious, there’s an optional underground tour of the Vatnshellir Lava Cave, which promises another dimension of the volcanic story.

The trip winds down with a return to Reykjavik, marking the end of a well-curated adventure. The comprehensive nature of this tour means you’ll leave feeling like you’ve seen Iceland’s most stunning sights, with plenty of insights from guides who genuinely care about sharing their homeland.

Practical Aspects & Value

The $3,058 per person price covers accommodations (7 nights with private bathrooms), transportation in a small group, guiding, glacier hikes, ice cave tours, whale watching, and breakfast each morning. The inclusion of WiFi onboard helps you stay connected during long drives, and the small group size means more personalized attention.

While meals outside of breakfast, optional activities, and some entrance fees like the VÖK Baths aren’t included, this setup provides flexibility for travelers to choose what suits their preferences.

Guests like Lau, Kateryna, and Chuah praised the knowledge and warmth of their guides, noting how their passion made the experience more memorable. The tour is especially suited for those who want a comprehensive, adventure-filled journey, and are comfortable with a pace that includes some early mornings and variable weather.

The Sum Up

This 8-day small group tour offers an authentic, well-organized way to experience the essence of Iceland. From waterfalls and glaciers to volcanic regions and wildlife encounters, it hits many highlights while allowing space for surprises. The knowledgeable guides, like Axel and Hinrik, elevate the experience, turning scenic stops into educational moments.

While the price might seem steep at first glance, the inclusion of accommodations, guiding, and adventurous activities makes it a solid value for those wanting an all-in-one package without the hassle of DIY planning. It’s perfect for first-time visitors eager to see Iceland’s most iconic sights with a trusted group.

If you love nature, storytelling, and a dash of adventure, this tour will meet and perhaps even exceed your expectations. Just be prepared for Iceland’s unpredictable weather and enjoy every breathtaking moment.

FAQ

What is included in the tour price?
The tour price covers 7 nights of accommodation with private bathrooms and breakfast, pickup and drop-off in Reykjavik, guided tours, glacier hikes, ice cave visits, whale watching, and taxes.

Are meals outside of breakfast included?
No, lunch, dinner, and optional activities like horse riding or VÖK Baths are not included, giving you flexibility to choose local eateries or special experiences.

What is the maximum group size?
The tour is limited to 18 participants, making it more intimate than large coach tours and allowing for personalized attention from guides.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, the minimum age is 8 years, so it’s suitable for families with children who meet that age requirement.

What should I expect weather-wise?
Iceland’s weather can be unpredictable—brisk, rainy, or sunny. Be prepared with layered clothing, waterproof gear, and sturdy shoes for hikes and outdoor stops.

How flexible is the itinerary?
Due to weather or other factors, the order of stops may change. Guides aim to maximize the experience, so flexibility is part of the adventure.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing peace of mind in case your plans shift unexpectedly.

This 8-day small group Iceland tour combines natural beauty, adventure, and expert guidance—delivering a true taste of Iceland’s rugged charm that’s hard to beat.