Discover Iceland beyond the guidebooks with our 14-day hidden gems itinerary.
Accompanied by your driver-guide, you’ll explore the corners most visitors never see, from the windswept cliffs of the Westfjords to the volcanic beaches of the southeast. With carefully chosen boutique accommodations, personalized activities, and a relaxed, immersive rhythm, this itinerary lets you savor Iceland’s nature, culture, and hospitality at their most authentic.
Whether you’re gazing over glacier lagoons, soaking in hidden hot springs, or sharing stories with a local artisan, each day brings quiet marvels and meaningful connections with our 2-week tour.
Destinations on Our 14-Day Hidden Gems of Iceland Tour
Days 1–3: Reykjavík & Reykjanes Peninsula
Explore Iceland’s capital and venture to the steaming landscapes and black cliffs of the Reykjanes Peninsula.
Discover coastal salt farms, volcanic rock pools, and local flavors.
Days 4–6: Westfjords
Journey to Iceland’s most remote and untouched region
Visit puffin cliffs, red-sand beaches, and ancient fishing villages
Learn about Arctic foxes, folklore, and local crafts from the communities who call the Westfjords home.
Days 7–10: North Iceland
Experience Eyjafjörður’s fjords, Lake Mývatn’s geothermal wonders, and the whale-rich waters of Húsavík.
Enjoy forest walks, turf farms, and starlit picnics under Arctic skies
Days 11–14: South & Southeast Iceland
Cross mountain passes and fjord-scarred coastlines to discover the island’s glacial heart.
Visit hidden canyons, secluded lagoons, and the dazzling black sand beaches of the south coast.
Conclude with a return to Reykjavík through quiet valleys, waterfalls, and a final geothermal soak.
Day 1: Arrival, Reykjavík’s Hidden Corners & Seaside Welcome
Ease into Iceland with a relaxed arrival day focused on creative culture and coastal charm.
Private Airport Pickup
Upon landing at Keflavík Airport, meet your private driver-guide for a scenic transfer into Reykjavík.
Reykjavík Street Art & Design Tour with Local Creative
In the afternoon, head out with a private guide—an artist or local creative—for an insider’s walking tour of Reykjavík’s street art, boutique design studios, and quirky architecture.
See murals tucked down hidden lanes, meet gallery owners, and explore neighborhoods like Grandi and Vesturbær that most visitors miss.
Geothermal Foot Soak & Dinner at a Seaside Hideaway
What better way to spend your first evening after arrival in Iceland than unwinding with a geothermal foot soak at a tucked-away local spa, where warm mineral waters bubble from natural springs?
As the sun lingers low over the ocean, enjoy a private table at one of Reykjavík’s lesser-known seaside restaurants, where you’ll sample fresh Arctic char, rye bread, and seasonal Icelandic specialties while waves crash in the background.
Day 2: Hidden Reykjavík Secrets & the Wild Reykjanes Peninsula
Today combines off-the-beaten-path urban exploration with geothermal marvels on Iceland’s youngest and most volcanic peninsula.
Private Tour of Reykjavík’s Lesser-Known Neighbourhoods & Sculpture Garden
Start with a tailored driving and walking tour through Reykjavík’s hidden gems. Your guide will take you into charming residential streets, waterfront parks, and cozy local cafés not listed in guidebooks.
Visit the serene Einar Jónsson Sculpture Garden, a secret oasis of myth-inspired stonework nestled beside Hallgrímskirkja church, where each statue tells a story from Icelandic folklore.
Reykjanes Peninsula: Brimketill Lava Rock Pool & Gunnuhver Geothermal Field
Leave the city behind for the rugged coast of Reykjanes, Iceland’s geothermal frontier.
Walk out to the dramatic sea cliffs at Brimketill, a naturally formed rock pool battered by Atlantic waves, and witness the steaming, hissing landscape at Gunnuhver, where Iceland’s restless energy bubbles to the surface. Learn about the myths of ghosts and trolls said to haunt this wild peninsula.
Visit to a Family-Run Sea Salt Farm + Tasting
End your day with a visit to a small, family-run sea salt farm, where centuries-old techniques meet modern sustainability.
Tour the evaporation houses and see how pure Icelandic seawater is transformed into flaky salt crystals. Enjoy a private tasting featuring local flavors, such as Arctic thyme and birch-smoked salt. Return to Reykjavík in the late afternoon for a relaxed evening at your leisure.
Day 3: Snæfellsnes Peninsula – Hidden Beaches, Lava Caves & Legends
Experience Iceland’s “miniature continent,” filled with dramatic coastlines, ancient lava fields, and sagas come to life.
Private Coastal Drive with Hidden Beaches & Seal Colonies
Depart Reykjavík with your private guide for a daylong adventure around the Snæfellsnes Peninsula.
Instead of rushing from landmark to landmark, focus on lesser-visited coastal areas—black pebble beaches where seals haul out on rocks, secret inlets where seabirds nest, and tiny fishing villages where life still follows the rhythms of the sea.
Lava Cave Exploration at Vatnshellir
Descend into the ancient underworld with a private tour of Vatnshellir, a lava tube formed over 8,000 years ago.
Equipped with helmets and headlamps, follow your guide into the cavernous tunnels sculpted by volcanic forces. Marvel at the textures, colors, and eerie silence underground, and hear about how Iceland’s geology has shaped its landscapes—and legends.
Storytelling Stop at Bárðar Saga Snæfellsáss Rock Formations
On your return journey, stop at the mythical stone formations associated with the saga of Bárður Snæfellsás, a half-troll, half-man said to protect the Snæfellsnes region.
Your guide will share the tale as you explore the strange, weathered rocks that stand guard over the land. Return to Reykjavík by evening, filled with stories of Iceland’s ancient spirit.
Day 4: Scenic Journey to the Westfjords & Waterfall Wonders
Leave the main tourist routes behind as you venture into one of Iceland’s most untouched regions — the dramatic and sparsely populated Westfjords.
Crossing to the Edge of the Map – Ferry or Fjordside Drive
Your day begins with a scenic journey through the West.
Depending on conditions, travel by ferry from the harbor town of Stykkishólmur to Brjánslækur, gliding through Breiðafjörður Bay. The route takes you past islands teeming with seabirds, including puffins, during the summer months (May-August). With luck, you might spot seals basking on the rocks or a whale breaking the surface.
If road travel is the better option, the drive-through twisting fjords offers equally striking scenery, paired with stories of isolated fishing villages and Norse legends shared by your private driver-guide.
Pause at Dynjandi – Waterfall Picnic Amid the Peaks
En route to Ísafjörður, stop at Dynjandi, the majestic, fan-shaped waterfall cascading over 100 meters down a rugged cliffside.
Often dubbed the “pearl of the Westfjords,” Dynjandi makes an unforgettable picnic setting. Enjoy a light lunch outdoors, surrounded by towering mountains and the echoes of early Viking explorers who once passed through these valleys.
Explore Ísafjörður – Flavors, Folklore, and Fjordside Life
Arrive in Ísafjörður, the cultural hub of the Westfjords, where a walking tour offers a flavorful introduction to local life.
Sample Arctic char, dried fish snacks, and baked treats as you stroll the waterfront and admire the town’s brightly painted houses. Step inside the Westfjords Heritage Museum, set in a former 19th-century hospital, to explore maritime artifacts, folk tools, and tales of survival in this remote northern frontier.
Day 5: Arctic Fox Encounters & Remote Beaches
Nature and folklore come alive today as you meet Iceland’s elusive animals and wander through red-sand wilderness.
Private Visit to the Arctic Fox Centre with Guided Forest Hike
Start the day with a private visit to the Arctic Fox Centre in Súðavík, where you’ll meet researchers working to protect Iceland’s only native land mammal.
Enjoy a close look at rescued foxes (non-releasable) and learn about conservation efforts before heading out on a gentle forest hike nearby—a rare treat in a country where trees are precious.
Visit Hidden Beach Rauðasandur and Red Sand Cliffs
Next, drive to Rauðasandur, an extraordinary beach where the sand glows pink, orange, and red, depending on the light.
Unlike Iceland’s more famous black beaches, Rauðasandur feels splendidly isolated, with only seals and seabirds for company. Stroll along the shore or simply sit and listen to the wind and waves, a moment of true solitude.
Dinner at a Sea-to-Table Village Eatery
Wrap up your day with a cozy dinner at a local sea-to-table restaurant tucked into a tiny fishing village. Feast on langoustines, cod, or lamb from nearby farms, paired with stories from the chefs or owners about surviving and thriving in the Westfjords’ remote beauty.
Day 6: Fjords, Ghost Villages & Icelandic Artistry
Today blends history, folklore, scenic drives, and a hands-on creative experience.
Private Drive Through Ísafjarðardjúp Fjords with Folklore Storytelling
Set out with your guide on a private journey through Ísafjarðardjúp, a twisting, glittering series of fjords flanked by steep mountains.
Along the way, hear tales of sea monsters, hidden people, and Viking explorers who braved these lonely waters. Expect numerous scenic photo stops where the sky and sea appear to stretch endlessly.
Stop at Abandoned Hesteyri Village or Kaldbakur Hike
Depending on the weather and your energy levels, visit the abandoned village of Hesteyri, reachable by short boat ride or via coastal walk—where deserted houses and a forgotten church speak of Iceland’s rural past.
Alternatively, if you prefer a more active option, take a short, guided hike to Kaldbakur, the Westfjords’ tallest peak, which offers breathtaking views.
Art Studio Visit with Icelandic Wool Workshop
Return to Ísafjörður in the afternoon for a creative session at a local artist’s studio.
Learn about traditional Icelandic wool techniques—carding, dyeing, and spinning—or create your simple felted artwork to take home as a memento. As you chat with the artist over coffee, you’ll gain a deeper appreciation for the craft and resilience of Westfjord life.
Day 7: Journey East via the Strandir Coast and Seaside Hot Springs
Our itinerary today promises dramatic drives, mystical tales, and remote geothermal treasures.
Holmavík Witchcraft Museum Stop
Depart the Westfjords with your private driver-guide, heading east along the wild Strandir coast.
Stop in the small fishing village of Holmavík to visit the fascinating Museum of Icelandic Sorcery and Witchcraft. This quirky museum offers a deep dive into 17th-century folklore, spells, and the harsh realities of rural superstitions.
Your guide will explain how the fear of witches shaped daily life in these remote parts, bringing the displays of runes, rituals, and magical staves vividly to life.
Hot Spring Dip at the Hidden Pool of Krossneslaug
Continue the coastal drive along winding fjords until you reach one of Iceland’s most remote hot springs: Krossneslaug.
Sitting right at the edge of the Arctic Ocean, this humble geothermal pool offers surreal views of endless water and sky.
After changing into the simple huts, ease into the warm water and feel the chill of the sea breeze on your face. Your guide will prepare warm drinks for you to enjoy after your soak while you marvel at the solitude of the Strandir region.
Arrival at Akureyri with Sunset Arctic Coast Drive
In the late afternoon, continue across the rugged landscape toward Akureyri, Iceland’s second-largest town and cultural heart of the north.
As the sun dips low, enjoy a leisurely coastal drive along Eyjafjörður, with golden light bouncing off the mountains and fjord waters. Arrive at your boutique hotel or charming guesthouse in Akureyri, where you’ll settle in for a relaxing evening.
Day 8: Eyjafjörður Traditions and Forest Walks
Today balances natural beauty with cultural encounters and a touch of wilderness.
Hike to Gásir Medieval Trading Post with Fjord Views
Begin with a gentle hike along the shore of Eyjafjörður to the medieval site of Gásir, once one of Iceland’s most important trading hubs.
With your guide, walk between ancient ruins while learning about the merchants who traveled here in the Middle Ages. The fjord views are stunning, and if visiting in summer, wildflowers carpet the landscape in vibrant colors.
Visit a Turf Farmhouse with an Icelandic Farm Lunch
Next, head inland to visit a traditional turf farmhouse, where the thick grass-covered walls once provided vital insulation.
Meet the family who still maintains this historic site and share a hearty farm-to-table lunch featuring local lamb, Arctic char, or wild-foraged berries. Conversations over homemade bread and butter bring Iceland’s rural heritage to life in a personal, authentic way.
Forest Walk in Kjarnaskógur + Evening Stargazing Picnic
In the afternoon, take a relaxed stroll through Kjarnaskógur, one of Iceland’s few natural forests, with trails winding through birch and pine trees.
Later, your guide will set up a casual picnic in a secluded clearing. If the skies are clear, linger into the evening for a bit of stargazing—Northern Lights are possible from September to April, while the Midnight Sun stretches twilight into the night during summer months.
Day 9: Mývatn’s Hidden Marvels and Geothermal Wonders
Today immerses you in one of North Iceland’s most surreal landscapes.
Explore the Geothermal Caves of Grjótagjá and the Lava Fields of Dimmuborgir
Head east to the Lake Mývatn area, a wonderland of volcanic formations, bubbling Earth, and eerie beauty.
Begin at Grjótagjá, a cave once famous for its geothermal springs (and a filming site for Game of Thrones). Continue to the Dimmuborgir lava fields, where twisted towers of cooled lava create an otherworldly maze.
Your guide will share legends about the “dark castles” and trolls that Icelandic folklore claims once roamed these fields.
Mývatn Nature Baths Soak with Lake View
After your morning adventures, reward yourself with a relaxing soak in the naturally heated waters of the Mývatn Nature Baths.
Less crowded than the Blue Lagoon but equally beautiful, these steaming pools offer views over the lake and volcanic hills beyond. Settle into the mineral-rich waters and feel your body completely relax, refreshed by the clean, geothermal air.
Visit a Local Cheese Farm with a Tasting and Tour
Round out the day with a private visit to a family-run cheese farm near Mývatn.
Tour the small production facilities where traditional skyr, soft cheeses, and local dairy products are still handmade. Then, enjoy a tasting session paired with locally baked bread and jams—an ideal way to end a day rich in natural and cultural flavors.
Day 10: Whale Tales and Coastal Treasures
Marine life, warm geothermal waters, and fishing village stories await today.
Private Whale Watching Trip from Húsavík (Zodiac Option)
Depart Akureyri for a morning drive to Húsavík, the whale-watching capital of Iceland.
Board a private zodiac boat for an intimate marine wildlife tour, with chances to spot humpbacks, minke whales, porpoises, and even the occasional blue whale during peak season.
Your marine biologist guide will share fascinating insights about Iceland’s rich ocean ecosystems.
Sea Bathing in GeoSea Thermal Baths
After your whale encounter, relax at GeoSea, a luxurious geothermal spa built into the cliffs above the sea.
Unlike other lagoons, GeoSea’s waters originate directly from the Earth’s heat and the mineral-rich ocean, creating a soothing and rejuvenating experience with uninterrupted views over Skjálfandi Bay.
Fishing Village Tour and Storytelling at Local Maritime Museum
Conclude the day with a walk through Húsavík’s colorful harbor, followed by a private visit to the local maritime museum.
Here, tales of fishermen, sea monsters, and early settlers bring Iceland’s seafaring heritage to life. Your guide will weave personal stories and local legends into the visit, offering a fitting farewell to North Iceland’s coastal communities.
Day 11: East to South Coast Transfer via Fjords
A breathtaking journey weaving through Iceland’s East Fjords, colorful villages, and hidden canyons.
Visit Petra’s Stone Collection in Stöðvarfjörður
Start the day with a visit to Petra’s Stone Collection, a beloved local museum where the late Petra Sveinsdóttir’s lifetime of mineral collecting fills a charming family home.
Walk among thousands of dazzling volcanic stones, crystals, and fossils found across the Eastfjords, gaining a deeper appreciation for Iceland’s rich geology from your guide.
Forest Picnic at Hallormsstaðaskógur
Continue toward Iceland’s largest forest, Hallormsstaðaskógur. Nestled alongside Lake Lagarfljót, the forest offers rare walking paths under birch and pine canopies.
Enjoy a picnic lunch in a peaceful glade prepared by your driver-guide, and take in sweeping views across the valley—a tranquil pause on your travel day.
Sunset Basalt Canyon Walk at Múlagljúfur
As you approach the Southeast coast, conclude the day with a sunset stroll through Múlagljúfur Canyon.
This moss-covered basalt gorge, carved by glacial rivers, remains blissfully untouched by crowds. Your guide will lead you along narrow trails lined with waterfalls, offering incredible photo opportunities before reaching your boutique lodge for the evening.
Day 12: Glacier Adventures Without the Crowds
Explore hidden glaciers and remote lagoons far from the tourist trail.
Private Visit to Hoffellsjökull Glacier
This morning, head to Hoffellsjökull, a remote glacier tongue where few travelers venture.
Wander among the gravel plains, moraines, and turquoise ice formations while your guide shares insights into Iceland’s glacial history. With no rush, you’ll have time to appreciate the powerful, ever-changing landscape in near silence.
Jeep Tour to Heinabergslón Hidden Lagoon
Next, climb into a private super jeep for an off-road adventure to Heinabergslón.
This serene glacial lagoon, filled with vivid blue icebergs, offers a magical setting for photography and contemplation. Walk along the lagoon’s edge or sit by the water’s surface while your guide prepares hot drinks to savor amid the stillness.
Cookout by a Waterfall
Wrap up the day with a rustic cookout near a secluded waterfall.
Gather around an open fire where your guide will grill traditional Icelandic hot dogs, locally sourced lamb, and fresh vegetables. Surrounded by rushing water and birdsong, it’s a simple, heartwarming Icelandic experience few travelers ever encounter.
Day 13: Coastal Secrets & Black Sand Beaches
Discover hidden beaches, lava villages, and local culinary traditions.
Hidden Black Sand Beach at Hvalnes or Þakgil Hike
Begin with a gentle walk along the isolated black sand beaches of Hvalnes, where ocean waves crash against basalt cliffs. Alternatively, your guide may lead you to Þakgil Canyon—a verdant, hidden valley surrounded by towering rock walls, where wildflowers bloom in the summer.
Lava Rock Village & Local Craft Studio Visit
Later, visit a tiny lava rock settlement where houses blend into the volcanic landscape.
Stop at a local craft studio to meet artisans creating jewelry, textiles, and ceramics inspired by Iceland’s natural forms. Discover the traditions that continue to shape rural life in these remote coastal communities.
Private Lava Bread Baking & Fish Tasting
In the afternoon, join a private workshop to bake rye bread underground using geothermal heat—a practice dating back centuries.
Sample your creation alongside traditional Icelandic smoked fish, cheeses, and jams during a rustic tasting session with a local family host, who will share stories of life by the sea.
Day 14: Return to Reykjavík via South Coast Hidden Stops
Your final day in Iceland brings a leisurely return to Reykjavík, tracing the scenic South Coast once more — but with a few final hidden gems along the way.
Your private driver-guide will tailor the route to your timing and interests, perhaps stopping at a lesser-known canyon, a secret waterfall tucked behind mossy cliffs, or a small coastal village renowned for its charm.
As the landscapes slowly give way to the outskirts of the capital, take a final look at Iceland’s elemental beauty — glaciers in the rearview and lava fields on the horizon.
Upon arrival in Reykjavík or directly at Keflavík International Airport, your guide will assist with your luggage and ensure a smooth drop-off for your departing flight.
Whether you’re heading home or onward, you’ll leave with vivid memories of wild places, warm hospitality, and a journey unlike any other.
