6-Day Minibus Tour Around Iceland from Reykjavik

When thinking about Iceland, most of us picture rugged landscapes, waterfalls, glaciers, and volcanic scenery. This 6-day minibus tour from Reykjavik offers a fantastic way to experience Iceland’s highlights without the stress of navigating yourself. For $2,421.41 per person, you get a carefully curated itinerary that hits all the major sights, along with activities like glacier hiking and whale watching. Your friendly guide (possibly someone like Palli or Erla, if reviews are to be trusted) will handle the driving while you sit back and enjoy the views.

Two things we especially love about this tour are the well-organized itinerary—covering everything from Gullfoss and Geysir to the black sand beaches and ice caves—and the mix of active and relaxing experiences. The included glacier hikes and ice cave explorations promise a tangible sense of adventure. One possible consideration is the tight schedule at some stops, which can feel rushed if you’re eager to linger longer—but that’s often the trade-off with a packed itinerary.

This tour suits travelers who want to see a broad swath of Iceland quickly, enjoy guided comfort, and indulge in memorable activities like whale watching and glacier exploration. It’s ideal if you prefer not to drive in winter weather, value expert guides, and want a mix of sightseeing, adventure, and cultural insights without planning every detail yourself.

Key Points

• Comprehensive coverage of Iceland’s major attractions in 6 days
• Hassle-free experience with hotel pickup and drop-off from Reykjavik
• Included activities like glacier hiking, ice caving, and whale watching
• Small group size (max 18 travelers) for a more intimate experience
• Expert guides providing insights and safety during adventurous parts
• Value for money considering the range of activities and accommodations

A Deep Dive into the Icelandic Adventure

If you’re dreaming of Iceland’s stunning landscapes but don’t want to worry about logistics or driving in winter, this tour offers a solid option. The tour costs around $2,420 per person, which might seem steep at first glance. However, when you factor in included transportation, activities, accommodation, and guides, it can be quite good value—especially considering the convenience and the variety of sights covered.

The Comfort of Group Travel with a Professional Guide

Transport is in a comfortable minibus, which is noted to be well-maintained and clean. With a maximum of 18 travelers, you won’t be stuck in a crowded bus, yet you’ll still have the camaraderie of a small group. The guides are described as friendly, knowledgeable, and attentive, making the experience both educational and safe. For example, one reviewer called their guide “full of knowledge,” which adds a lot to the experience, especially at sites like Thingvellir or Dimmuborgir.

The Itinerary: A Day-by-Day Breakdown

Day 1: Golden Circle Highlights

Your adventure kicks off with iconic sights like Gullfoss Waterfall, Geysir, and Thingvellir National Park. These are Iceland’s most famous natural monuments, and you’ll get around 30 minutes at each, which is enough to snap photos and soak in the scenery. Gullfoss’s powerful double cascade leaves a lasting impression, while Geysir’s geothermal eruptions and Thingvellir’s geological significance are equally fascinating.

Day 2: Waterfalls and Glacier Hike

The journey continues south with visits to Seljalandsfoss and Skogafoss, two waterfalls that showcase Iceland’s raw power. The real highlight is the Solheimajokull Glacier hike, included in your package. As one reviewer enthusiastically noted, “Loved walking on the glacier!” You’ll don safety equipment and venture out onto a glacier that looks like it belongs on another planet, complete with volcanic ash and blue ice formations.

Day 3: Jökulsárlón and Vatnajökull Ice Caves

Heading further east, you’ll visit Diamond Beach, where ice chunks wash ashore on black sand, creating a surreal landscape. Then, Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon offers a serene scene of floating icebergs. The Vatnajökull ice caves tour is a major highlight—exploring these stunning, otherworldly ice formations inside Europe’s biggest glacier. The SuperTruck takes you deeper into hidden areas, revealing caves and tunnels that look straight out of a fantasy film.

Day 4: East Fjords & Wildlife

The East Fjords are less crowded and full of natural beauty. You might see wild reindeer (a rare treat according to reviews), and the peaceful fishing villages add a touch of Icelandic history and culture. Optional horseback riding at Finnsstaðir offers a chance to connect with Iceland’s famous horses, although this costs extra.

Day 5: Lake Myvatn & Geothermal Beauty

Day five introduces geothermal marvels like Námaskarð, a geothermal area full of bubbling mud pots and steam vents. The Dimmuborgir Lava Formations evoke mythical creatures like trolls and elves, and Lake Myvatn provides tranquil scenery. You can opt for a relaxing soak at Vök Baths (additional cost), with their floating hot pools giving you a chance to unwind amid Iceland’s geothermal activity.

Day 6: Whales and Northward Drive

Your last day is dedicated to whale watching in Hauganes, an experience highly praised by travelers as a highlight. Watching whales in their natural habitat from a small boat is a memorable way to end your trip. Afterward, the group drives back to Reykjavik, reflecting on the diverse landscapes and adventures experienced.

Activities: Adventure and Relaxation in Tandem

The included glacier hike, ice cave tour, and whale watching make this not just a sightseeing trip but an adventure. Each activity is designed to be accessible and safe, with safety equipment provided. The glacier hike and ice caves are especially praised, with travelers describing them as “stunning” and “like being on another planet.” The whale-watching tour is also a standout, with reviewers noting they saw humpback whales and reindeer—an unexpected but delightful bonus.

Logistics and Practicalities

• Pickup: The tour includes pickup and drop-off from designated Reykjavik locations, which saves you the hassle of navigating in winter conditions.
• Duration: Each day involves several stops, with around 30 minutes at most sites, making it a fast-paced but comprehensive experience.
• Meals: Meals are not included, so you’ll want to budget for lunches and dinners. You’re free to explore local restaurants or pack snacks.
• Extras: You can rent hiking boots, waterproof jackets, and pants if needed, which is prudent during Iceland’s unpredictable weather.
• Comfort: WiFi on board helps you stay connected and share your stunning photos in real-time.

What Previous Travelers Say

Reviews paint a positive picture overall. Many mention the knowledge and friendliness of guides as a major plus. One traveler called the tour “a trip of a lifetime,” while others appreciated the small group size, which allows for a more personalized experience.

Some minor concerns include the tight schedule—certain stops can feel rushed—and the accommodations, which some found less memorable. However, the overall consensus is that this is a well-organized, memorable, and value-packed way to see Iceland for first-timers or those short on time.

Who Should Book This Tour?

This trip is perfect for adventurous travelers who want a broad overview of Iceland’s top sights without the hassle of planning every detail. It suits those who appreciate guided insight, small-group intimacy, and a mix of sightseeing and active experiences. If you’re traveling in winter and prefer not to drive on icy roads, this tour keeps you safe and comfortable while still delivering spectacular scenery.

Final Thoughts

This 6-day minibus tour around Iceland offers a balanced mix of natural wonders, exciting activities, and comfortable logistics. With knowledgeable guides, included glacier hikes and ice caves, plus whale watching, you’re in for a trip that’s both varied and rewarding. While the schedule can feel a bit tight at times, the efficiency allows you to see Iceland’s most famous landmarks without missing out. It’s especially suitable for travelers who want to maximize their time and enjoy Iceland’s wild beauty without the stress of planning each detail.

If you’re after an immersive, hassle-free experience with a good dose of adventure and stunning scenery, this tour is an excellent choice. It’s a way to tick off your Iceland bucket list while enjoying the comfort of a guided group—perfect for first-timers or anyone eager to explore Iceland’s highlights with expert support.

FAQs

• What is included in the tour price? The tour includes transportation, five nights of accommodation, breakfast, all activities like glacier hiking, ice caving, and whale watching, plus guides and WiFi on the bus.

• Are meals provided? No, meals are not included. You’ll need to budget for lunches and dinners, but there’s plenty of opportunity to try local cuisine.

• Can I rent hiking gear or waterproof clothing? Yes, hiking boots, waterproof jackets, and pants are available for rent at additional costs.

• What are the main sights I will see? Expect to visit Gullfoss, Geysir, Thingvellir, Seljalandsfoss, Skogafoss, Reynisfjara Beach, Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon, Vatnajokull, Lake Myvatn, and Godafoss.

• Is the tour suitable in winter? Yes, it’s designed for winter conditions, with guides handling safety and logistics, making it ideal if you want to avoid driving in Iceland’s winter weather.

• How long are the stops at each site? Typically around 30 minutes, enough for photos and quick exploration but not extended touring.

• What makes this tour stand out? The combination of natural sights, active adventures, and small-group comfort, plus the included whale watching and ice cave explorations.

• Who is this tour best for? Adventurous travelers who want a broad overview, small-group intimacy, and activities like glacier hikes and whale tours, especially if they prefer guided trips over self-driving.

Whether you’re a first-time visitor or revisiting to see more of Iceland, this tour offers a well-rounded, immersive experience that emphasizes the country’s most breathtaking sights. It balances adventure with comfort, allowing you to focus on soaking in the scenery and creating memories without the stress of logistics. For anyone eager to explore Iceland’s astonishing landscapes in a guided, small-group setting, this 6-day journey is hard to beat.