Iceland’s Eastern Region stands out for its dramatic landscapes, from towering basalt columns to expansive glaciers and tranquil black sand beaches. Unlike the more tourist-heavy parts of Iceland, the east offers a quieter, more authentic experience, especially when exploring its natural wonders through guided tours. Personally, I always recommend trying a glacier experience or a canyon walk, because nothing beats the feeling of standing amidst towering ice or colorful rock formations—there’s a sense of scale and timelessness here that’s hard to find elsewhere. For example, the Ice Cave Experience in Skaftafell offers an unforgettable peek inside a shimmering blue wonder, and the Stuðlagil Canyon tour reveals some of Iceland’s most impressive basalt formations. These tours showcase the raw power of Iceland’s glaciers and volcanic activity in ways that photos simply can’t capture.
If you’re planning to visit the east, you’ll find a variety of tours that suit different interests and fitness levels—from easy walks through scenic nature reserves to more adventurous glacier hikes. With options such as private tours, family-friendly hikes, and expert-guided explorations, there’s something for all. Now, let’s take a closer look at each of the top tours in this region, so you can decide which fits your Iceland adventure best.
1. Skaftafell: Ice Cave Experience
The Ice Cave Experience in Skaftafell ranks high thanks to its blend of breathtaking scenery and the chance to step inside a natural ice cathedral. For around $193 per person, you’ll spend about 3 hours exploring a stunning blue ice cave with an expert glacier guide. This tour is ideal for those who want a close-up look at the interior of a glacier, with highlights like admiring the vivid colors of the ice and snapping photos inside the shimmering cavern. The tour begins at Icelandic Mountain Guides by Icelandia, where you’ll get a comprehensive safety briefing before heading off on a modified glacier bus toward the Falljökull outlet glacier. The 2.5-hour guided walk offers scenic views, photo opportunities, and a chance to learn about glacier formation from your guide—who shares more than just facts but also a passion for these icy giants.
What makes this tour stand out is the opportunity to visit a natural ice cave that is accessible and safe, with the added thrill of riding a glacier bus to the glacier terminal face. Though some reviews mention that conditions can vary—like the inability to visit multiple caves during warmer periods—the experience itself remains impressive. Most reviewers remark on how unique and beautiful the ice cave was, with one even calling it “an experience of a lifetime.” The limited group size and expert guidance ensure a memorable and safe adventure.
Bottom Line: Perfect for those seeking an awe-inspiring, photo-rich adventure inside a glacier, this tour offers a combination of scenic travel and inside-the-ice wonders.
2. Skaftafell: Ice Maze & Glacier Crevasse Tour
For travelers interested in exploring the mysteries of the glacier’s surface, the Ice Maze & Glacier Crevasse Tour provides a family-friendly, 4-hour adventure that is both accessible and extraordinary. Starting at Arctic Adventures in Skaftafell, this guided hike takes you across the Fallsjokull glacier, an outlet of the vast Vatnajokull ice cap. The highlight is discovering the natural ice labyrinth, a maze of blue passages formed over centuries. The tour is designed to be approachable, with no previous experience necessary, making it perfect for families and casual hikers alike.
During the hike, you’ll explore blue ice passages and crevasses, while your guide shares insights into glacier geology and climate change. The focus is on safe, engaging exploration rather than technical climbing, which means you can enjoy the stunning ice formations without needing advanced skills. The reviews, with a 4.5-star rating, praise the tour as “a fantastic family adventure” and highlight the accessible yet awe-inspiring landscape.
This tour is ideal if you’re after a mix of scenic beauty, educational content, and a fun outdoor activity. The 4-hour duration strikes a good balance between exploration and travel time, and the small-group format ensures personalized attention.
Bottom Line: Great for families and those new to glacier hiking, this tour offers a memorable way to experience Iceland’s icy landscape without technical demands.
3. Arctic Glacier Hike – Vatnajokull Glacier 4 hrs
If your goal is a more secluded glacier experience, the Arctic Glacier Hike on Fjallsjokull Glacier offers just that. For $182, you get 4 hours of guided exploration, with the added bonus of a magnificent view over Fjallsarlon Glacier Lagoon. This small-group tour—limited to 10 people—ensures a personalized experience with an experienced glacier guide who shares insights about the glacier’s formation, features, and ongoing changes.
The tour departs from the Fjallsárlón parking lot, where you’ll find free parking and onsite amenities. The route takes you across glacial ice, allowing you to observe blue ice formations, crevasses, and seracs up close. What makes this hike special is the privacy and exclusivity: fewer crowds and a more intimate connection with nature. Reviewers comment on how the magnificent views and up-close glacier encounter make this a highlight of their trip. The tour’s moderate difficulty level suits most active travelers, and the guide’s local knowledge adds depth to the experience.
Bottom Line: An excellent choice for those wanting a personalized glacier adventure with stunning views and a chance to escape the crowds.
$182 per person
4. From Eskifjörður: Vöðlavík Black Beach Private Tour
For travelers seeking a customized, private experience, the Vöðlavík Black Beach Private Tour offers a peaceful exploration of Iceland’s striking black sand beaches and the Helgustaðanáma spar mine. Priced at $1,532 per group (up to 4 people), this 5-hour tour begins from Strandgata 14 and combines natural beauty with intriguing history.
You’ll visit the serene Vöðlavík Bay, renowned for its dark volcanic sands and rugged coastline, perfect for photography and reflection. Your guide shares stories about the Helgustaðanáma spar mine and the significance of Iceland spar crystals—fascinating for geology buffs and casual history enthusiasts alike. The tour includes a jeep or SUV ride, a photo stop, and a guided walk. Travelers appreciate the tranquility and personalized attention, making this ideal for those who want a relaxed day with a focus on scenery and history.
While the price is higher, the private setting ensures a tailored experience with plenty of opportunities to ask questions and linger at the most interesting spots. Reviewers mention the peaceful atmosphere and beautiful landscapes as the tour’s real highlights.
Bottom Line: Perfect for couples or small groups wanting a bespoke day exploring Iceland’s coastal secrets and historical sites.
$1,532 per group up to 4
5. From Seyðisfjörður: Stuðlagil Canyon and Reindeer Park Tour
Number five on our list is a full-day adventure combining the stunning basalt columns of Stuðlagil Canyon with a visit to the Reindeer Park. For $283 per person, this 7-hour tour departs from Seyðisfjörður, Fellabær, or Egilsstaðir. The highlight is the Hiking in Stuðlagil, one of Iceland’s most striking natural sights, with towering basalt formations that seem to rise from the earth in perfect columns.
Your guide takes you on a 2-hour hike through the canyon, explaining the geology behind the impressive rock formations. Afterward, you’ll head to the Reindeer Park, where you can observe and learn about Iceland’s reindeer population—an unusual sight for many visitors. The tour includes transportation, sightseeing stops, and a chance to connect with Iceland’s wildlife and geology in one day.
While reviews are modest at 4.1 stars, many travelers enjoy the combination of natural beauty and wildlife. It’s best suited for those who want a balanced day of hiking, wildlife viewing, and scenic driving.
Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers who want a comprehensive day exploring Iceland’s geology and wildlife in one trip.
$283 per person
6. From Seyðisfjörður: Stuðlagil Canyon and the Highland Circle
For those craving a full-day exploration of both canyon and highland landscapes, this 9-hour tour offers multiple highlights including Stuðlagil Canyon, Hafrahvammagljúfur Gorge, and natural hot springs. Starting from Seyðisfjörður or Egilsstaðir, you’ll visit some of the deepest gorges in Iceland and enjoy scenic stops at reservoirs, dams, and the Kárahnjúkar hydroelectric plant.
The Hafrahvammagljúfur Canyon is particularly impressive, and the stop at the Hásló reservoir offers panoramic views. You also get a chance to visit Iceland’s largest hydroelectric plant, providing insight into the country’s energy infrastructure. It’s a tour perfect for those who want an immersive day of diverse landscapes, with opportunities for short hikes and photography.
Both reviews and the itinerary show this tour caters well to adventure-minded travelers who want to see a wide swath of east Iceland’s natural and man-made wonders.
Bottom Line: Suited for active travelers eager to cover a lot of ground and experience Iceland’s geological and engineering marvels in one day.
$334 per person
7. From Seydisfjordur: Stuðlagil Canyon Private Tour
The Stuðlagil Canyon Private Tour offers an exclusive, customizable experience for up to four guests. At $2,178 per group, this 5-hour tour provides flexibility to explore at your own pace, with options to include visits to Rjúkandi waterfall and Vök Baths or Reindeer Park.
Starting from Seyðisfjörður, your guide takes you off the beaten path, focusing on personal interests. The main highlight remains the massive basalt columns of Stuðlagil, which are simply jaw-dropping. The optional visits to Vök Baths, Iceland’s first floating pool, or the Reindeer Park make this tour appealing for those wanting a luxurious, tailored day.
Many travelers love the private aspect, which allows for a more relaxed, in-depth experience. It’s best suited for small groups or couples who want an intimate day with personalized attention.
Bottom Line: Ideal for those willing to invest in a customized, high-end adventure focusing on natural beauty and optional extras.
$2,178 per group up to 4
8. Hólmanes: Guided Nature Walk
Finally, if you’re after a gentle, scenic walk, the Hólmanes Guided Nature Walk is perfect. For just $60, you’ll enjoy a 3-hour hike through this protected area known for its birdlife and panoramic views of the Hólmar hills and Hólmatindur mountain. The walk is suitable for all ages and fitness levels, making it a great family outing or a relaxing way to get acquainted with Icelandic nature.
Starting from Hólmanes Parking, this tour emphasizes quiet contemplation and natural beauty. Reviewers often mention the peaceful atmosphere and the stunning vistas, making it a favorite for travelers who want a low-key, enriching experience.
This tour’s strength is its easy pace and focus on natural landscapes. It’s a good choice if you’re looking for a short, scenic walk that still delivers a sense of Iceland’s wilderness.
Bottom Line: Best suited for those seeking a relaxing, scenic hike in a tranquil setting.
$60 per person
How to Choose the Best Tour for You
When selecting among these tours, consider your budget, fitness level, and interests. For example, if you’re after a once-in-a-lifetime glacier experience, the Ice Cave Experience is unbeatable. If your focus is on exploring volcanic formations and wildlife, the Reindeer Park and Canyon combo offers a broad sweep of east Iceland’s natural wonders.
For those wanting a more exclusive or private experience, the Private Stuðlagil Canyon Tour or the Vöðlavík Black Beach tour fit best. Budget travelers will appreciate the guided nature walk in Hólmanes, which provides scenic views at a low cost.
Timing is also crucial—summer months typically offer better conditions for glacier hikes and canyon walks, so plan accordingly and book early to secure your spot.
Final Thoughts
The Eastern Region of Iceland offers a diverse array of tours that showcase its stunning glaciers, canyons, and volcanic landscapes. Whether you’re interested in glacier caves, scenic canyon hikes, or private coastal explorations, this region has an experience to match your curiosity and energy level.
For those craving adventure and spectacular scenery, the Ice Cave Experience and Glacier Hikes are top picks. If you prefer a more relaxed, private, or family-oriented outing, options like the Vöðlavík Black Beach tour or the Hólmanes Nature Walk should be on your radar.
Remember, Iceland’s weather can change fast, so plan ahead, book early, and get ready for some truly memorable views. There’s a reason these tours make the list—they deliver authentic, breathtaking experiences you’ll cherish long after your trip ends.