7 Day Around Iceland Tour- PRIVATE TOUR

Imagine spending a week exploring one of the most visually stunning countries on Earth—Iceland—without the hassle of planning or driving. This 7-day private tour offers a comprehensive look at Iceland’s most iconic sights, from the historic Thingvellir to the shimmering Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon, all while enjoying the comfort of a dedicated guide and private transportation. With a price tag of approximately $11,102 per person, this experience caters to travelers who prioritize comfort, personalized service, and being able to see the highlights without the stress of self-driving.

What we love about this trip are the attention to detail in each stop, and the personalized experience provided by a dedicated guide, who brings depth and local knowledge to every site. Plus, the inclusion of accommodations at local hotels and guesthouses, with daily breakfast, makes this an all-in-one adventure.

A possible consideration for travelers is the cost, which is on the higher side, but the value comes in having a private guide, flexible itinerary, and seamless logistics. This tour suits those who want a stress-free, immersive experience with a focus on authentic Icelandic landscapes, culture, and natural wonders, especially if you’re traveling with family, friends, or celebrating a special occasion.

Key Points

• All-inclusive, private guided experience offers a personalized, hassle-free tour of Iceland.
• Diverse sites, from waterfalls and glaciers to volcanic fields and black sand beaches.
• Includes accommodations at local hotels and guesthouses with breakfast.
• Expert guides enhance the experience with rich commentary and local knowledge.
• Ideal for travelers seeking comfort, flexibility, and authentic Icelandic scenery.
• Cost reflects value, providing private transportation and all entrance fees (excluding optional extras).

Exploring the Highlights: What You Can Expect

This tour hits nearly every essential Icelandic sight, making it ideal for travelers who want to see a lot in a limited time without sacrificing comfort. Here’s a detailed look at what each stop offers and why it’s worth your time.

The Historic and Cultural Heart: Thingvellir

Starting with Thingvellir sets the tone for understanding Iceland’s history and geology. As the site of the world’s first parliament in 930, it’s a place of deep cultural significance. Walking to Öxarárfoss, a charming waterfall, we get a glimpse of the natural beauty that has impressed visitors for centuries. Since admission is free, it’s a perfect starting point that combines history with nature. Travelers often comment on how learning about the world’s first democracy adds a meaningful layer to their trip.

The Geysir Area: Nature’s Fireworks

Next, the famous Geysir geothermal area offers the spectacle of boiling water and erupting geysers. While the original Geysir is mostly inactive, Strokkur erupts about every 4 minutes, shooting water up to 70 meters. This continuous display of raw geothermal power is mesmerizing and a highlight for many. The proximity of the two geysers makes for an engaging and dynamic experience, with plenty of opportunities to photograph the action.

Gullfoss: The Golden Waterfall

A short drive brings us to Gullfoss, often called the “Golden Waterfall.” Its powerful, two-tiered cascade plunges into a deep canyon, creating a thunderous spectacle. Many visitors love walking down the path to get close, feeling the spray and hearing the roar of the water—an experience that captures the essence of Iceland’s wild landscape. The free entry makes it accessible, and the views are truly unforgettable.

Unique Dining at Friðheimar

A standout moment is a lunch at Friðheimar greenhouse, where tomatoes are grown using geothermal heat. Dining amid lush tomato plants in a tropical-like environment offers a rare experience. The menu centers on fresh tomatoes, making this a delicious and sustainable meal stop. It’s a perfect example of how Iceland cleverly harnesses geothermal energy for agriculture and comfort. Several reviews mention the tasty, memorable meal and the chance to see geothermal agriculture firsthand.

Relaxing in Nature: Secret Lagoon and Waterfalls

After a busy morning, a soak at the Secret Lagoon provides a relaxing end to the day in natural hot springs. It’s a less commercial alternative to Blue Lagoon, offering a more authentic and tranquil geothermal experience. Then, as we venture south, the waterfalls Seljalandsfoss and Skogafoss showcase Iceland’s raw water power.

Seljalandsfoss is unique because you can walk behind it—an experience that’s both exhilarating and slightly misty. Skogafoss, with its almost 200-foot drop, is Iceland’s most famous waterfall, often accompanied by rainbows on sunny days. Both waterfalls are free to visit but provide spectacular photo opportunities and close encounters with nature.

Glaciers and Volcanic Landscapes

The tour continues into the realm of glaciers and volcanoes with Solheimajokull Glacier, an outlet glacier flowing from the Mýrdalsjökull ice cap—home to the volcano Katla. Guided walks on the glacier are popular, giving a tangible sense of Iceland’s icy wilderness.

Next, Dyrhólaey and Reynisfjara Beach showcase the dramatic black sand beaches, basalt columns, and sea stacks—landscapes formed by volcanic activity and erosion. Reynisfjara, ranked by some as one of the world’s most beautiful beaches, is a must-see for its striking basalt formations and powerful Atlantic waves.

Majestic Ice and Water

Heading east, the Skaftafell National Park offers hiking and views of Europe’s largest glacier, Vatnajökull, with opportunities to walk among ice formations. Nearby, the Fjaðrárgljúfur canyon, carved by glacial rivers, is a stunning geological feature often seen in social media and music videos, as one reviewer pointed out.

The Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon and Fjallsárlón Iceberg Lagoon are among Iceland’s most iconic sights, with floating icebergs and shimmering waters. The chance to walk among icebergs on the black sand beach—sometimes called “Diamond Beach”—makes for breathtaking photography and memorable moments.

Ice Cave and Volcanic Fields

In winter months, the tour offers ice cave exploration beneath Vatnajökull—a once-in-a-lifetime experience into the depths of a natural glacier cavity. Traveling further east, volcanic landscapes at Námaskarð and Krafla display bubbling mud pools, steaming fumaroles, and volcanic fields that tell stories of Iceland’s fiery activity.

Waterfalls, Lava Fields, and Cultural Stops

The route includes stops at the dramatic Hengifoss and Litlanesfoss waterfalls, both set in striking geological surroundings. Then, the Dimmuborgir lava formations captivate visitors with their surreal shapes—massive lava tubes formed about 2,300 years ago.

Traveling north, the Godafoss waterfall, known as the “Waterfall of the Gods,” offers a dramatic finale to the day’s exploration before arriving in the charming city of Akureyri.

Snæfellsnes Peninsula: The Land of Legends

The tour also ventures to the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, with highlights like Kirkjufell mountain—arguably Iceland’s most photographed peak—and the Londrangar basalt cliffs. Visiting Vatnshellir Cave and Arnarstapi, a coastal fishing village with dramatic rock formations and legends, adds a sense of Icelandic folklore and raw nature. The optional Into the Glacier tour in Langjökull takes you inside a man-made ice tunnel, providing an extraordinary perspective of Iceland’s ice sheets.

Authentic Experiences and Authenticity

One of the most praised aspects of this tour, based on reviews, is the expertise and friendliness of the guides—Helga Bára and others—who bring local knowledge and a warm touch to each stop. Travelers often note how “outstanding” guides made the trip not just about seeing sights but understanding their significance. Several reviewers emphasized how the personalized experience made them feel cared for and well-informed.

The accommodations are at local hotels and guesthouses, offering a cozy, regional feel that adds to the authentic Iceland experience. The inclusion of daily breakfast is a practical advantage, ensuring you start each day energized for more adventures.

The Value and Practical Aspects

While the cost of over $11,000 per person might seem steep, remember that this covers private transportation, all entrance fees (except optional extras), and a dedicated guide—features that typically cost extra if you go DIY. The convenience of avoiding rental cars, navigating Icelandic roads, and fitting so many sights into a tightly packed schedule adds significant value.

The flexibility of a private tour means your guide can tailor the experience slightly, making room for your interests or taking you to unexpected places—an advantage many reviews highlight. The all-inclusive nature means fewer worries about tickets, logistics, or timing.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This trip is perfect for travellers who want a comprehensive, stress-free introduction to Iceland. It’s especially suitable for those who value expert-guided insights, comfort, and convenience. Families, couples, or groups celebrating milestones will appreciate the private aspect and the flexibility it offers. If your goal is to see major landmarks with minimal hassle, this tour hits the mark.

However, keep in mind the cost and consider whether the private guide experience aligns with your travel style and budget. For travelers who prefer a more flexible, independent approach, a self-driven trip might be more economical, but with less personal guidance.

The Sum Up: Who Is This Tour Best For?

In summary, this 7-day private guided tour of Iceland offers an immersive, well-curated experience for those willing to invest in comfort and expert guidance. It shines in providing a thorough look at Iceland’s most iconic sights, from waterfalls and glaciers to volcanic fields and charming villages, all with a personal touch.

Travelers who value detailed storytelling, authentic local stays, and seamless logistics will find this tour a fantastic way to experience Iceland’s diversity and raw beauty. The high level of praise from previous guests highlights how much they appreciated the knowledgeable guides and breathtaking scenery.

This tour is best suited for adventurers who want a complete, comfort-focused Icelandic journey that balances natural wonder with cultural insights—perfect for making memories that last a lifetime.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for travelers with limited mobility?
Since the tour involves walking to sites like waterfalls and glaciers, it may not be ideal for those with mobility issues. However, the private guide can help tailor the experience.

Are all sights included in the price?
Most sights are covered, including entrance fees for all activities and locations, except optional extras like ice cave exploration in winter.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Yes, as a private tour, your guide can adjust the schedule slightly based on your interests and pace.

What kind of accommodations are included?
The tour features six nights at local hotels and guesthouses, offering comfortable, authentic Icelandic lodging.

Is vegetarian or special diet accommodated?
While specific dietary options aren’t detailed, the unique greenhouse lunch and other meals can likely be tailored if informed in advance.

How are transportation arrangements?
Private transportation is included throughout, ensuring comfort and flexibility, avoiding the stress of self-driving.

What is the best time of year for this tour?
Most activities are available year-round, but the ice cave exploration is typically winter (November to March). Be sure to check weather conditions influencing the experience.

Overall, if you’re looking for a thorough, guided Iceland experience that balances adventure, comfort, and cultural insight, this tour offers a compelling package—well worth considering for your Icelandic journey.